The Fab Fives!

Once again, Jay has come up with a super fun tag for us!  It's called the fab five.  All you have to do is name your favorite top fives in each category.  I'm pretty sure I've missed favorites that should be in my fab fives. lol

Anyway, here are my fab fives, in no particular order!

Actors

1) Tom Hanks

2) Johnny Depp

3) Colin Firth

4) Gary Oldman

5a) Harrison Ford

5b) Alan Rickman (okay, so I added one)

 

Actresses

1) Kate Winslet

2) Meryl Streep

3) Meg Ryan

4) Anne Hathaway

5) Sandra Bullock

Movies (so impossible)

1) Beauty and the Beast

2) The Harry Potter Films (specifically, Sorcerer’s Stone, Prisoner of Azkaban, Goblet of Fire, and Deathly Hallows, Part II)

3) Titanic

4) Gone With the Wind

5a) Miracle on 34^th Street (original)

5b) White Christmas 

Books (more impossible)

1) Harry Potter (all)

2) Bridget Jones’s Diary

3) Pride & Prejudice

4) The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

5) Charlotte’s Web

Moments that inspire me

1) The ocean

2) Shooting stars

3) Sunrise/Sunset

4) Characters that jump off the page

5) Heroism and bravery…having courage.

 Places to go (in a city)

1) Local, family owned bookstores/businesses, as well as Barnes & Noble, basically any bookstore lol

2) Passionate sporting venues (like Cowboys Stadium, American Airlines Center for the Mavs, LSU, race tracks for NASCAR, or Yankee Stadium, etc.)

3) Anywhere there’s food, whether it’s BBQ, corndogs, or Tex-Mex

4) Famous landmarks or places of historical significance

5) Museums

Places to go in the world (that you’ve been to)

1) Disneyland

2) Williamsburg, Virginia

3) Melbourne, Australia

4) New Zealand

5) Big Sur, California

Best live shows you’ve seen

1) Carole King (my first real concert when I was little)

2) Janet Jackson (for her Janet. album)

3) Paula Abdul (yep, back in the early 90s, and it was awesome)

4) Whitney Houston

5) The Sleeping Beauty, New York City Ballet

People I could do without

1) Mean, cruel folks

2) Those with grossly inflated egos.

3) People who think THEY know how best YOU should live YOUR life

4) Those lacking accountability

5) Plastic people

If you would like to participate in the fab fives, please have fun and go for it! Can’t wait to read your fab fives!

Smelly Cat

Because my skin has decided to respond to the hard water and dry air by becoming the Sahara Desert, I’ve been forced to find a new super-duper moisturizer. 

I finally found one with rave reviews, 5 out of 5 stars.  Yeah, ordered that immediately.  Once it arrived, I ripped that stuff open and slathered it on my parched skin, which soaked it up like a sponge. 

All was well. 

Until…sniff.  Sniff.  Sniff. 

Aw, hell.  I smell like my dentist’s office.

Don’t get me wrong, it smells wonderful, but…it smells like my dentist’s office. 

This is a problem. 

I have this sometimes irrational fear of smells, namely those of doctor’s offices, hospitals, and dentist’s offices.   Hell, even the doctors themselves carry a foreboding scent.  Seriously, I’ve gagged when a doctor leaned in to look in my ear.

I’m thinking dating a doctor could be problematic?  Just a hunch.  

When we almost lost my dad, we spent a lot of time in the hospital.  Just to get past my stupid smell fears, I found myself literally HAVING to go to my one, lone refuge in the hospital—the one place I could find solace and peace: The gift shop. 

Plus, it was the one place that didn’t stink. 

Oh, Dad, you’re out of snacks.  I’ll just pop down to the gift shop.

Dad, you need some toothpaste!  Gift shop!

What did you say? You want some more mints?  Gift shop!

Of course, I think a large part of it was that I wanted to get my dad tons of goodies to make him happy while he recovered.  Heck, the day he was moved from the ER, I got him a teddy bear to keep him company. 

I honestly didn’t realize just how important the gift shop was during that time.  I’m pretty sure it was the only thing that kept me sane and made me feel like I was doing something to make my dad smile. 

Anyway, I’ve developed this scent association…with my moisturizer…and the dentist.  It made me gag.  So, now I have this scary-doctor-smell on my skin…and no gift shop.

Most people would think it smells wonderful. 

To me, I’m smelly cat.  Actually, I’m smelly cat with a gagging problem.

If the stuff doesn’t work PERFECTLY, then I’ll happily return it. Bye-bye smelly cat.

If, however, it works, then I guess I’ll be gagging my way to sweet skin.

Truth Is Thursday--Puppies Bark It, Mom Says It, & Whitney Sings It

Truth Is: Little Malachy, the darling, wobbly Pekingese, won Best In Show at Westminster this week.  This was his 115^th best in show title.  He’s such a precious little peanut!

Credit: Craig Ruttle/AP

Truth Is: Me: “Just once, I’d like to be a dog handler at Westminster.”

Mom: “You’d be great.  Animals love you.  But—”

Me: “But what?”

Mom: “Well, you’d look lovely out there…until you trip and face-plant on the carpet in front of the judge.” 

Me: “Great.  Thanks.”

Mom laughs.  I sulk…then laugh at the mental imagery.  

                                                                                                

Truth Is: The weather is seriously screwing with my sinuses.  Can Mother Nature kindly make up her mind on what season this is?

Truth Is: Mom never ceases to amaze me with some of her out-of-the-blue sayings.  The other day, in the middle of conversation, she blurts out, “Oh, holy Jiminy Crickets, I forgot to make my Jell-O.” Holy Jiminy Crickets?! She has never said that a day in her life! LOL  

Truth Is: My Mavs are on a roll!!!!!!! Whoop! Whoop! Love watching them play!

Truth Is:  NASCAR.  Budweiser Shootout.  Saturday night.  I’m so there.  Let’s go 88—rip it up.

Truth Is:  Last weekend, music lost a legend.  Whitney Houston’s voice was a once in a lifetime phenomenon.  I’ll never forget the time my mom, dad, and I went to see her live in concert.  She still had that powerhouse voice and put on quite a show, singing all her classics.  I even remember our section winning the “shoop-shoop” contest.  It was a great night with my family, watching a musical icon.  

She personified talent--no gimmicks, no publicity stunts...just one massively powerful voice.  

Though Whitney’s gone, her music will live on.  I hope she has found peace. 

I remember watching this performance live on MTV with my mom—it was probably my favorite LIVE performance she gave (apart from the National Anthem).  If you haven’t seen it, take a listen when you have a second, and remember her for her God-given talent.  Peace to you, Whitney.

Whitney Houston, Why Does It Hurt So Bad

             

A Valentine's Reboot, Part Two

And today's Vomit Day.  Yay.  Can you feel the enthusiasm?  Anyway, here's part two of my Valentine's date from hell. 

 *******

Driveway Roadkill, Part Two: 

Aside from the occasional raspberry when I would forget to lift before moving, dinner went quite smoothly. No food drops, food flings, or gags...that is until Mr. Leaver made me try to eat something, knowing I thought they looked like little bits of mushy cow's brain.

Mr. Leaver: "Just try one for me."

Me: "Oh, all right, but I won't like it."

Mr. Leaver: "You'll like this one."

So, I tried it. Didn't like it. Mr. Leaver started grinning at me while I tried to choke the thing down. I made a very tiny ewy-ick face at him, just to make him laugh.

It's quite unfortunate that at that precise moment, the chef came out and wanted to know how everyone enjoyed their meals.

To make matters worse, my date's family was pretty well-known in the community, so the chef, proud of his work, looked to us first.

Yeah. 

Poor thing--he seemed so anxious to know if we found his cooking satisfactory. Beaming, he looked to me first. Can you guess what he saw?

You guessed it: The leather-pants-wearing-faux-flatulence-problem girl, wearing the ewy-ick expression on her face.

His face went pale; I really thought he might vomit, which would have been very bad, since the little mushy brain-like thing in my mouth pushed me to the ragged edge of vomitville.

I swallowed the last bit as quickly as I could, coughed a little, made a small gagging sound, nervously (sadly) moved in my chair, and tried to assure him that his meal was delicious.

Not thinking he bought it. Not sure if it was the expression, cough, gag, or faux fart that didn't convince him.

Sigh. I do hope he understood after everything.

After dinner: Once in the car, I could tell something was off about Mr. Leaver. Was it the pants? The ewy-ick face? Ugh, the faux-flatulence?

I should point out that Mr. Leaver did NOT bring me any flowers or candy or a cuddly for Valentine's Day. His reason? Because he wanted to take it slow (fine by me!) and he didn't want to "scare" me off. **He knew about Wasn't**  

NOTE: He had not even tried to KISS me yet, much to my surprise.

As the radio played one of my favorite songs, Mr. Leaver fumbled about for a CD. He cut off the radio, put in the CD, and immediately started playing a specific song, saying, "I want you to hear this one."

Uh-oh.

He picked a song that had a very clear message...and it didn't include sleep. Now, the song wasn't Bump N' Grind or Freak Me (those were really good songs, weren't they? Sorry, momentary mind melt), but I got the message.

I can't remember the song specifically--probably because my leather pants and I were busy visiting sweatville all over again--but I do recall some of it was very, very sweet and complementary...still, I got the jist of what it was saying.

He wants to take it slow. He hasn't held my hand.  He hasn't kissed me.  Yet, he wants to go have sex?? 

Seriously?

I didn't say anything, apart from commenting on what a pretty song it was; he didn't say anything. It was THE most awkward drive home. He never followed up with anything.

I kind-of think he wanted me to initiate something...suggest we go back to his place, perhaps. I didn't know what to do...usually the guy actually makes a move or suggests going back to his place...SOMETHING. This was new to me.

So, play a song, and I'm expected to recommend the sex??? Total confusion.

Next thing I know, Mr. Leaver says: "I'm just going to take you back home tonight.  I have an early day tomorrow. Hope you don't mind." His tone was a bit cold, at least to me.

It was pretty early for a date to end. My initial translation on his words: "You didn't pick up on my song and suggest going back to my place, so I'm gonna pout now." I could have been wrong, but that's how it came off.

After the longest drive ever--where I tried to make conversation and he just seemed distant--we finally pulled into my very icy driveway.

We paused for a moment. I felt bad. I didn't want the date to end all awkward and full of misunderstanding. So, I tried to imply that we could take things to the next level (i.e. kissing...since I was a little confused as to why that hadn't happened yet).

Whatever.  It didn't take.

Hmm. Why isn't he moving from that nice warm seat to walk me to my door? Maybe say goodnight with a Valentine's kiss??  Ah, I get it, he's not gonna do either. 

He literally dropped me in the middle of my driveway and drove off without making sure I made it safely to my door.

Nope. I was left in the dark, in the middle of my icy driveway, in leather pants, and brand new heels.

Maybe I misread everything, but I still think, no matter what, you see your date makes it to her door safely... especially a Valentine's date. I'm a southern girl, remember.

I scraped and slid my way to the door, looking like something between the Hunchback of Notre Dame and a turtle. During my long hobbit-like walk to the door, several thoughts ticked across my mind:

What happened to "taking it slow?"

Ya haven't kissed me, but you want to have sex? Huh?

Play a song = girl suggesting sex? Really?  


Am I totally wrong, here?
 
Once I made it safely inside--shocked I didn't fall on my arse--I closed the door on Valentine's Day forever...and wearing leather pants on a formal date.

After about three days of nothing, he called and started calling me "honey" and "dear" and I think even "darling." It was strange and, yet, totally par for the course.

So, there you have it, my top three worst Vomit Days. I think the only reason I don't have more is because of my tendency to hide this time of year. If history is any indication, it's a dang good thing I do.

To all of you who love V-Day: Happy Valentine's Day to you. {{{HUGS}}}

To all of you who don't: Happy February 15th...a.k.a. The Chocolate Sale Day! {{{HUGS}}}

A Valentine's Reboot, Part One

Since tomorrow is the dreaded day, I figured I'd re-post a couple of my classic V-Day failures (and I do mean failures). 

One day, I hope to have at least ONE good V-Day.  Heck, I'd take one relatively decent 14th O'Feb.  I've always thought that one good V-Day would forever change my thoughts on this drab time of year. 

But, for the time being, I hope these failures will give you some insight into my sheer disdain for Vomit Day.  


Driveway Roadkill, Part One:

Who: We'll call him Mr. Leaver.

Date: 3rd. a.k.a. the expected sex date...on my very first official V-Day date. Fabulous timing.

Mood: Excited, hopeful, happy.

Outfit: Oooh, a good one--leather pants, brand new pink top, brand new, tastefully sexy boots with a decent size heel on them. 

Restaurant: Quaint, converted house.  Picture a mid-size bar adjacent a surprisingly small dining area--very intimate. The overwhelmingly quiet atmosphere around the bar and dining area made me nervous.

Me + new heels + small area + insane quiet = possible catastrophe.

Mr. Leaver: "Let's sit at the bar while they're getting our table ready."

The bar stools were unusually tall...dangerously so, actually. With my nice new heels, I lifted and balanced myself gracefully onto the stool. Phew.

Mr. Leaver and I talked for a few moments before he left to go talk to someone (I think he wanted to greet someone his family knew...that whole bit is a blur).

While my date did whatever, the front of house informed me that our table was ready.

*Keep in mind, the following happened very quickly, but it felt like slow motion*

As I tried to slide off the stool, I discovered something the mean science teachers failed to tell us in school:

leather pants + wooden seat = inability to slide, slight stuck feeling, and manufactured farting sounds when attempting to move.

Now, I don't know if there were some unknown variables, like whatever they used to clean the wood, the type of wood, or the type of leather pants I had on, but my rear end was essentially STUCK. 

Oh. Holy. God. 

The height of the stools were such that I couldn't put my foot down and hop off without the possibility of my leathery bottom bringing the stool crashing to the ground. And, as we have already learned, I cannot simply slide off without sounding like I had a flatulence problem.

Growing very hot, I began to sweat--not a good mix with leather.

I had to get off this stupid stool.  I slowly lifted my rear, one bum cheek at a time, and tried to ease myself forward until my feet could touch the floor. In doing so, these very strange *FLAWP* *FLAWP* peeling sounds rang out from my derriere.

The people at the tables closest to the bar kept a measuring eye on me; I couldn't tell if they were amused or if they were waiting to see if I would fall off the stool.

By this time, my feet were halfway to the floor, my body was slightly tilted on the stool, and I was in deep danger of the whole stool tipping over should I move one more inch.

I dared to try one more little slide. The only thing I accomplished was the sound of gas.

Grab Guy (sitting behind me at the bar): "You okay, there?"

Me: "I can't get off the stool."

Grab Guy: "Why?"

Me: "My leather pants--they're sticking to the wood. I need you to lift me off the stool."

Grab Guy: "Um, how?"

Me, sighing: "I need you to stick your hands under my bottom and just...peel me up."

Grab Guy, laughing: "I would, but I have a girlfriend."

Me: "I'm not asking you to grope me...just kindly help me off this thing, otherwise my pants will continue to make obscene sounds and eventually succeed in knocking over the stool. Please, I need your help...I can't reach the floor. Now, stick your hands under there and peel!"

Grab Guy, quite literally laughing his rear end off, aided in my dilemma, and I was able to hop off the stool with his, um, forklift-type-help. I did stumble a bit and, in doing so, my heels made an appallingly loud clip-clopping sound as people turned to look at the crazed leather-pants-wearing girl.

I thanked Grab Guy, and rejoined Mr. Leaver--the clip-clopping prompted him to leave his acquaintances and attend to his frazzled date. After assuring Mr. Leaver that all was well, we followed the waiter to our table...

...which had wooden seats.

It was only the beginning.

Truth Is Thursday--Voldemort Headaches, Grease, & A Face-Plant

Truth Is:  Thanks to a hellish headache that took over my brain like Voldemort, I’m now backed up on e-mails. 

Truth Is:  I tripped on my computer chord and did a face-plant into my chair (thankfully, it was a soft landing).  It’s one of those things you’re super glad no one witnessed.

Truth Is:  Wish I could charge guys for saying douche-y things. 

Truth Is: Heard You’re The One That I Want from Grease on the radio the other day.  It reminded me of the time some guy said I was too much of a Sandy for him to date.  My comeback at the time was, “Well, Sandy was good enough for John Travolta, but whatever.” 

Today, I’d probably remind him that even Sandy can channel her inner sexy, pull out the black leather and red lipstick, and show that sweet can be sexy, too.  Then, I’d tell him he’s not the one that I want (maybe I’d sing it…maybe not). 

And for the record, he wasn’t a John Travolta. 

Truth Is:  I had more to say, but I’ve plum forgot.

True Blood Tuesday: Season 5 Teasers!

Summer will soon be upon us, and with it comes a new season of vampires, werewolves, witches, shifters, and fairies, oh my!

To tide you over, the stars of the show have unearthed some tasty little morsels for all you fang-fans.

* Vampire Central: The new season is rumored to be vampire-centered, which makes sense with vampire-slayer-wannabe Steve Newlin now going vamp, not to mention the possibility of Russell breaking free from his cement coffin.

* Jason: Jason will have a great deal of responsibility this season, especially considering Andy isn't handling his sheriff duties very well.

* Sam & Luna: Luna understands Sam in a way no one else could, and her hope for him remains constant.  She is Sam's shifter-soul mate. (Awww, I love these two together!)

* Arlene & Terry: The baby demon storyline seems to have met its last days (thank goodness), but things aren't going to be all sunshine and roses for Arlene and Terry.  Patrick Devins--Scott Foley, of Felicity fame--will definitely muddy the waters for them.  (very curious about this story) 

* Alcide: Finally, Joe Manganiello revealed that our favorite werewolf will get a little bit mean this season, saying Al will "...slam you up against the wall and go for it." (Um.  Promise?  *blushes* Sorry. Hormones.)

And finally, we have a little teaser video from HBO! I think this points to crazy Russell coming back.  What do y'all think?

Monday Music & Total Randomness

It's time for a mind dump Monday!  (I apologize in advance)

*  Congrats to the Giants & their fans! The Manning family DNA might as well be designated "superhero-esque." No one can say Eli isn't as good as Tom Brady now, and I'm happy for him--imagine having to live in the shadow of Peyton Manning? I mean, that's an impressively intimidating shadow!  Think Eli is creating his own shadow now. ;)

*  I thought Madonna put on an awesome halftime show. People are sooooo quick to point out her near-fall, some awkward dancing, and her lip-syncing, but, dang, she IS 53 years young, folks! Stop the nitpicking.  She looked fantastic and gave fans their money's worth.  Frankly, like my mom said, it was one of the best halftime shows we've had in a long time.

* Okay, I'm about to have a real stupid fan-girl moment (you've been forewarned).  NASCAR is about to start! *SQUEAL*  The sound of roaring engines, lug nuts flying around, tires, track suits, spiffy painted cars, the Boogity, boogity, boogity, let's go racin' boys...sigh.   So. Excited.  GO DALE!!!!!!!  Okay, end of fan-girl moment.

* Pretty sure I have Super Bowl coma because today doesn't even feel like a weekday...at all--more like Sunday, Part II.

This song ALWAYS brightens my day--I just think it's so sexy and fun.  So, turn up the volume and feel the relaxation wash over you.  (Sorry if there's an ad before the video).

Maroon 5, Sunday Morning. 

Truth Is Thursday, Pre-Super...huh?

Truth Is: Can’t understand why a company would actually okay a commercial that does nothing but have people screaming.  How can that possibly be effective when it makes viewers say “shut up” and hit mute?  I really question advertising execs sometimes.

Truth Is: Twilight: Breaking Dawn, Part I will be on DVD February 11^th.  I’m buying it.  I like the movies, though they’re not Harry Potter.  I’m not sure it’s entirely healthy to watch it around Vomit Day, but, you know, I’m a risk taker.

Truth Is: Pretty sure I have a demonic paper plate holder.  It’s the only one that holds the paper plate hostage.  When it finally releases the plate, the dang thing flips and sends crumbs all over me and the floor.

Truth Is: I’m really not interested in the Super Bowl this year.  No Cowboys, no Saints, no Texans…blah.  I mean, I’m happy for all fans of the Giants and Patriots—it will be a fantastic day for them. 

Can’t explain this disinterested feeling…Cowboys’ fans knew they wouldn’t make an appearance; we barely had a snowball’s chance in hell of making the playoffs. So, I’m not blah because the Cowboys aren’t in it. 

Maybe it would’ve been cool to see a Harbaugh-Harbaugh showdown or see a new team in there, like the Texans.  Maybe that’s what it is that makes this game so blah to me—there’s no real story to it.  I guess the story for this one would be the Giants/Patriots, Part II or Patriots Seek Redemption, something like that. 

Maybe I’ll get into it once the game starts…that’s probably what will happen.  Maybe.

Anyway, good luck to any and all Pats/Giants fans!  Enjoy it y’all!

Defining Insanity

These things are completely insane in different ways:

• Staying up all night and well into the next morning to watch the men’s tennis final at the Australian Open.  (in an epic way)

• Two men playing tennis for nearly six solid hours…and both are still able to stand when it’s over. (in a superhero way)

• Um, even without sleep, I was still totally able to cheer on my Mavs with gusto.  I inherited my mom’s night owl gene big time. (in an awesome way)

• Shaun White. (in a really good way)  

• Sinus attacks. (in a really bad way)

• Wind that sounds like it’s coming through the windows. (in a freaky way)

• How my mom can totally read my mind. (in a groovy-Sookie Stackhouse way)

• The man who wants happily ever after, but doesn’t want to put the effort into finding it and expects it to just fall in his lap. (in a sad way)

• The woman who believes sex will lure a husband away from his wife.  No joke. (in a completely pathetic way)

• Mother Nature. (in a scary way)

Unexpected Insanity: While watching the marathon tennis showdown, I began noticing things that I never noticed during the average length match.  Thus, I had some unusual observations, due in large part to sleep deprivation. 

• Nadal’s butt-hugger shorts gave him loads of wedgies. 

• The ball chasers had to maintain a specific crouching position which might have been unfortunate if they had developed gas.

• The towel holders had to have felt ewy.  After nearly six hours of wiping sweat, spit, and possibly nose drips, imagine how germy and stinky those towels must have been…and they had to touch them.  Maybe they changed towels, but they looked the same.  Either way…ick.

Truth Is Thursday--Skin, Single, and Harry Potter

Truth Is: Could someone please tell my skin that you can't decide to be dry and yet still have the nerve to require blot powder by late afternoon?

Truth Is: It seems like everyone is getting married or having babies. A fellow 30-something singleton said everyone around her is getting engaged, married, or pregnant except for her.  I might shouldn't have replied with, "Soon we'll be the only singles in the world."  I meant it as a joke.  By her reaction, I'm not thinking she got the joke part. 

Truth Is: I have to concur with fellow singleton--everyone is getting married and/or pregnant, including one of the most vile excuses for a human being I have ever known, and I don't say that lightly. Seriously, how do women like that get a man to fall in love with them? Because when I say vile, I mean VILE.

Truth Is: I really need to start dating again.  I've been kind-of hibernating this winter.  I blame sports (I mean, really, am I supposed to give up a Saturday night LSU game for a date that has a 50/50 chance of being good? Not on your life.  See, I'm so loyal!). Truth is, I really just don't like dating.  From what I hear, most people don't care for it.  It's just that nine times out of ten, dates are more like bad dreams disguised as hope.

Truth Is:  Really, really sad that Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part II did not get nominated for an Oscar for Best Picture, particularly since they could have included another film on the list.  The Harry Potter series has made history; what the series achieved is truly phenomenal, so maybe it doesn't really need an award (but I sure wanted to see them get nominated for the big one--of course, I'm a fan, so...lol). 

Still, I do think it's kind-of a travesty that Alan Rickman did not receive a supporting actor nod for his role as Severus Snape.  He. Brought. Snape. To. Life.  No one could have been Snape, no one.  And his final stand as Snape was exquisite, true perfection (cried my eyes out).  Granted, I have always loved Alan Rickman, but this is one omission I just don't understand.

Deathly Hallows, Part II was nominated for Art Direction, Makeup, and Visual Effects. I hope, hope, hope they walk away with one of these.  It would be the perfect way to close a truly spectacular series.

Diamonds Are A Man's Best Friend

Who said diamonds are only a girl's best friend?

Tonight, prior to the game against Minnesota (where J.J. Barea now plays), the Dallas Mavericks will receive their championship rings. 

How's this for a championship ring?

Credit: Dallas Mavericks/ESPN

Now THAT'S a ring!!! Wow! How gorgeous is that?  I knew Mark Cuban would go all out for the team's first championship! 

Each player's diamond encrusted ring will feature their name above the team logo and their jersey number. 

You can read the whole article and watch the teaser video of the ring's making on ESPN. 

FOREVER PROUD!!!!!!!!!!!! GO MAVS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Channel Your Inner Bookworm!

This super fun book survey comes from Jay, who always finds the most interesting questionnaires. Thank you, Jay, for tagging us!

1. Favorite childhood book?

I loved the Boxcar Children, Charlotte’s Web, Anne of Green Gables, The Babysitter’s Club, and the Nancy Drew books.  The bookstore rivaled the toy store when I was little.

                                                                                                               
2. What are you reading right now?

On recommendation from a friend, I’m reading The House of Night series. It’s a vampire series, but it’s pretty different from the others. 
 
3. What books do you have on request at the library?

Oh, it’s awful, but I haven’t been to the library in years.  I do love library books, though—the crinkly covers, the mysterious musty smell.

4. What do you currently have checked out at the library?

*hides head* Nothing.

5. Do you have an e-reader?

Nope, not interested. I mean, they’re cool little gadgets, but I’m a total traditionalist—I like holding a book in my hands and actually turning the pages.  I even like seeing a book sitting on my nightstand.  Plus, I love bookmarks—seriously, I kind-of collect them.

6. Do you prefer to read one book at a time, or several at once?

I’ve read two at one time before, but I really prefer to read one book at a time. I enjoy getting lost in the world for as long as possible.    

7. Can you read on the bus?

Oh, sure. I read Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix on a drive across country.  It was so much fun—I actually got annoyed when the sun had the nerve to set.

8. Favorite place to read?

My bed.

9. Do you ever dog-ear books?

No! Never! lol Bookmarks, people! Bookmarks! Lol

 
10. Do you ever write in the margins of your books?

If I need to make notes, I use pink/blue/yellow post-it notes and stick them on the pages. 

11. What makes you love a book?

Characters.  It’s so important to have a main character who “speaks” to the reader, someone the reader can connect with.  I hate it if by the end of a novel, I feel like I never fully “knew” the main character.  Voice goes hand-in-hand with characters that jump off the page.  If the characters/voice are interesting, then I look for a world/story that will let me escape reality.

12. What will inspire you to recommend a book?

If it’s something I can’t put down or want to read again, I’ll absolutely recommend it.

 
13. Favorite genre?

What can I say, I love the fantasy worlds.

14. How do you feel about giving bad/negative reviews?

Ugh, awful.  People who write take such pride in what they do; their works become as precious to them as their loved ones.  Maybe the best review is one that is constructive.

15. Favorite Poet?

I don’t really have one.  I love reading poetry, including poems by fellow bloggers.
 
16. How many books do you usually have checked out of the library at any given time?

Since I don’t really check out books anymore, I can’t really answer this one. Um, I’m feeling so guilty over these library questions that I think I’ll make a trip to my library this spring and check out a book, any book.

17. How often have you returned books to the library unread?

Oh, well, I never did that.

18. Favorite fictional character?

So many.  Elizabeth Bennett, Marianne Dashwood, Mr. Darcy, Colonel Brandon, Dracula, Sookie Stackhouse, Nancy Drew, Harry Potter (and all HP characters, really, Hermione, Ron, Luna, Tonks, Lupin, Snape, Sirius, Dumbledore, McGonagall, etc.).

19. Favorite fictional villain?

Dracula.

20. Books I’m most likely to bring on vacation?

Probably something new and an old reliable, like Pride & Prejudice, Sense & Sensibility, Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, or True Blood.

21. The longest I’ve gone without reading.

Um, I don’t think I’ve ever gone any appreciable amount of time without reading.

22. Name a book that you could/would not finish.

I don’t think there is a book I didn’t push through, but there is one I had to skip through.  I hate to say this, but I skipped over large chunks of New Moon in the Twilight Saga, particularly the times Bella kept talking about the large, gaping hole in her stomach.  I loved the end of the book, though, when the Volturi came into play and wished more of the novel had taken place in Volterra, Italy.

23. What distracts you easily when you’re reading?

Nothing.  When I’m in the world, I’m in the world to stay.

24. Favorite film adaptation of a novel?

Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Sense & Sensibility, Pride & Prejudice, Bridget Jones’s Diary, Gone With the Wind.

25. Most disappointing film adaptation?

Honestly, none can compare to the original novels.  Some try very hard to capture the aura of the original works, and they do a phenomenal job.  Still, if you’ve read the original work, it’s nearly impossible not to compare. But, I just enjoy the films and know they’ve done the best they can to bring the written word to life.

26. What would cause you to stop reading a book half-way through?
 

I usually read from beginning to end, although it might take me longer to finish if I’m not enjoying it.  Even if I want to stop reading, I try not to.  Not getting a good read on the main character and a very specific type of redundancy can be distracting.

27. Do you like to keep your books organized?

Usually by series.  If it’s a stand alone novel, I’ll organize by theme/genre. 

28. Do you prefer to keep books or give them away once you’ve read them?

Oh, I’m so a keeper of books.

Okay, now it’s your turn to reveal your inner bookworm! If you want to be tagged, then…TAG, you’re it!!!

Truth Is Thursday On Friday: People Shock Me.

Truth Is: Sleepy now...yet not. My eyes must have invisible toothpicks holding them up, while my brain must have found another gear.

Truth Is: The Sandman is clearly playing favorites these days.  I'm not one of them. 

Truth Is:  Couples only parties should be against the law--discrimination against singles or something.

Truth Is: My Mavs won last night.  Very glad about this, since they've lost some serious heart-breakers lately...like at the buzzer. Still, the more games they play, the more formidable they will become.

Truth Is: Dirk Nowitzki became only the 23rd player in NBA history to reach 23,000 career points. I think most people would agree he's one of the best to ever play the game.  Yet, he is likely not going to get his first start in the upcoming All Star Game.  He's currently 3rd behind Blake Griffin and Kevin Durant.  It's a shame because if anyone deserves to start an All Star Game, it's an all star player like Dirk Nowitzki. 

Truth Is: Okay, on behalf of a friend of mine: People, if you don't work hard, you can't expect to have things handed to you simply because you think you deserve it.  There are no shortcuts.  It's called earning it.

Truth Is:  I'm disgusted.  Truly, deeply disgusted.  I get being a fan. I get celebrating a win.  I get friendly competitive conversation--operative word being friendly.  What I don't get is how one fan can treat another fan so appallingly.

After the LSU-Bama Championship game, a 32-year old Bama fan performed lewd acts upon an unconscious LSU fan.  If you really want to know the details, simply visit ESPN or google it, but be prepared for a stomach-turning story.  Oh, and apparently someone caught it all on video, which went viral following the game.  I haven't watched it and will never watch it.  The man has since been arrested. 

There is so much I'd like to say to this guy (sooooo much), but I think I'll just leave it at this: Mike's waiting for you--good luck with that. GEAUX TIGERS!!!!!!!!

Credit: LSU Sports, Steve Franz.

Bridget Jones, You Disappoint Me.

Bridget Jones, friend and mascot to all single, thirty-something women around the globe, has just made me want to chuck eggs at my television.

On a particularly drab Sunday, boredom struck at approximately 2:17 a.m. When boredom hits a sometimes insomniac, certain things that one would find exceedingly dull become the most interesting things in the world, like infomercials or, in this case, special features on The Edge of Reason DVD.  

Under the special features, there was a "Who's Your Man" quiz.  All I have to do is answer a series of questions and it will choose a man that is right for me.  At the end of the quiz, it will evaluate my answers and show me who my perfect partner is: Mark Darcy or Daniel Cleaver.

If I get Daniel, I should just hang up underwear and call it a day, I thought to myself.

Here is a sampling of the questions and answers I selected:

What is your idea of a perfect kiss?  So, it's going to be either sweet, tender, with a bit of tongue or passionate, purposeful, all tongue.  Well, ideally you want the sweet to end up at the passionate, so both...but I can't choose both.  Dilemma.  I guess if we're talking for starters, I'd go with the sweet, tender, bit o' tongue.

You've just seen an unfaithful ex after a long time.  How do you react?  Easy, I remember how miserable he made me feel. 

How do men in tuxedos make you feel? Um, hot under the collar, for sure. James Bond, anyone?

After more questions like the above, it was finally time to find out who my perfect man will be! Terribly exciting for a boring night!

Daniel ding-dong, but v. bad:

Credit: Universal Studios Publicity Photos

Or Mark, double ding-dong and v. good:

Credit: Universal Studios Publicity Photos

Mark or Daniel...Mark or Daniel...who will it be?

Ah, here comes my ideal mate!!!

*Screen Flash*

Neither Mark nor Daniel is right for you.

WHAT?! NEITHER?! THAT WASN'T AN OPTION WHEN I STARTED THIS DANG QUIZ!!!!

You are too carefree and cool to let any man tie you down.  You are enjoying being single on your terms.  The chase and being in control are what turn you on. You're not ready to fall in love, settle down, and have babies--there are just too many men and not enough time.

HUH?! Apart from being single on my terms, I must wholly disagree with its entire evaluation.

This is where boredom turned into determination: I retook the quiz...several times...until I got an actual man. Pathetic, I know, but I suddenly thought I might jinx myself if I accepted "neither" as my answer.

Finally, I got a man:

Credit: Universal Studios Publicity Photos

Mark Darcy: You are a Mark girl.  You're looking for a man who accepts you for what you are and loves your wobbly bits.  Mark is that sort of man: kind, considerate, coy, stable, and sweet. Men like Mark are gentlemen through and through and beneath that conservative exterior beats a heart of gold, which needs a woman like you to keep it pumping.

Ah, much better. Perfectly on point. I approve. See, it got me absolutely right! *we won't mention its initially incorrect assessment or the subsequent tries it took for the dang thing to finally give me a man*