I find myself being a follower when it comes to questions and answers, so I have jumped on the “Interview Me” bandwagon. The trend was started by Immortal Matriarch, who was interrogated by Avitable (apparently twice). (O.k., maybe it started with Avitable? I dunno. We’ll go with my story for now.) Anyway, Immortal Matriarch interrogated my favorite sugar mama, over at Fear And Parenting in Las Vegas (she makes divine chocolates!), who forced dragged invited all of her readers me to join in on the fun.

So, here are the questions that my personal chocolatier friend FandPinLV came up with for me:

1. Why did you start your blog in the first place?
I have attempted blogging before, but had not made it past three entries on any of those previous attempts! As I explained when I first began Random Thoughts and Musings, a classmate dragged me to Twitter one day, and I was eventually sucked in by the awesome people there. After a few months of them asking me where my blog was, I gave in and started one. A few months after that, Mark Davidson offered to put me on my own domain, so I moved here, and the rest … as they say … is history (being made).
2. It appears that you have bonded, in some cases quite deeply, with some people online. Do you find it easier to open up to people you’ve never met in person or people who you’ve met?
My childhood was … interesting. As such, I am what I consider to be an anti-social person. I do not care what anyone thinks of me, but I fear outright rejection. It is a complicated state to be in, so it is even harder to explain. I am who I am, and I expect people to accept me or walk away: I will not change for anyone but myself. When I meet rejection, it does not really bother me. However, I fear the rejection anyway. Ok, this is not making sense even to me, so I will just leave it alone now.
Anyway. Online, I do not have to *see* the reactions people have towards me. I do not have to read it in their eyes, witness their body language, or hear the inflection in their voices. I can move around my world, completely oblivious to anyone else, for as long as I want. I never rarely put in a “friend request” to someone … I let them come to me. When I do bond with people, however, it is for the long term. I do not move whimsically in and out of friendships. An online relationship is just as important to me as one I have built face-to-face, because the person is still real, and I expect people to be just as honest with me as I am with them. When I find out differently, I simply walk away. Vengeance and grudges are for someone else. I prefer happiness and joy.

3. You have to be one of the most unselfish and thoughtful people I’ve ever met. While I think you’re fabulous, the glare of your halo is getting a bit blinding. So, what’s the most selfish thing you’ve ever done?
I am not unselfish. I am quite greedy, in fact. I do, however, like to share whatever I acquire. This is a matter of choosing happiness, and has nothing to do with being unselfish. Sharing brings happiness to others, and their happiness increases my happiness, so sharing is, in fact, a very selfish thing for me to do.
One thing I have done that is very specifically selfish is going to Jamaica with friends. I have done it twice - in 2006, and in 2007. I will be going again in 2009. Going to Boston for a working vacation was NOT satisfactory to my “recharge” and I will not make the mistake of skipping this few days of complete and total bliss. This is not a trip my Tween will ever make with me, as much as she wants to go to Jamaica. This is MY TIME. My completely, totally, selfish time to be a woman … a single woman … and not a mother. It sounds horrible even to me, but I will not give it up anytime I have the option of going.

4. You lost your job in 2008. That sucked. No doubts there. If income, location, education, and other restraints were removed, what career would you pursue?
I would love to be part of a nonprofit of some sort. I want to do something that helps people in a big way. I want to be a part of something far bigger than me. I would love to work an administrative job for a nonprofit, then go on missions with said nonprofit to less-than-wealthy places and work for a couple of weeks every year. Even a couple of months out of the year. Hell, even half the year. Maybe more. I am pretty selfish though, and I like to be pampered with things like massages and manicures and pedicures and soft curly hair and smooth skin and white sandy beaches and pretty clothes and jewelry (although I do go costume, not expensive) and tv and movies and nifty electronics and sweet appliances like the french door refrigerator. I would like to say I could live in Asia or Africa or China and be a full-time mission, but I do not think that would be truthful. I *could* do a rotation of one month there and one month home, one month there, one month home, etc …

5. So, I may be coming to Florida sometime in 2009 or 2010. What would we do if I showed up on your doorstep?
Hit the beach, chick! We have the BEST beaches in the US right here! Soft white sandy beaches, emerald green waters that allow you to see the bottom even in deep areas, sunshine, warm weather … Oh, and we would go to HelenBack for a pizza lunch, then go back to the beach. We could bring our own cocktails, relax … enjoy the day talking and watching the children splash in the water. Then, Tween could watch yours at home so that us adults could go to AJ’s for cocktails … then go back to the beach. For dinner we’d go to McGuire’s Irish Pub (there is one in Destin now) for a steak dinner. Yes, then go back to the beach. I am sure if you wanted to do something else, we could plan a perfectly reasonable day … but why? The beach here is an example of Mother Nature’s perfection!

Thanks for the questions, darlin! I always enjoy answering questions, although I am not ever quite sure what I will answer. Sometimes, the answer simply depends on what kind of mood I am in at the moment!

Well, Ramblers and Thinkers and Musers … do you want to play along? If so, here are

The Rules….

1. Leave me a comment saying, “Interview me.”
2. I will respond by emailing you five questions. I get to pick the questions.
3. You will update your blog with the answers to the questions.
4. You will include this explanation and an offer to interview someone else in the same post.
5. When others comment asking to be interviewed, you will ask them five questions.

I found this meme on Miss Attitude’s blog, and she found it on Reassigned Time.

1. What did you do in 2008 that you’d never done before?
Discovered a tumor on Baby S. The fear that set in immediately was almost overpowering, my vision went black, my head was spinning, and I kept seeing bright flashes of light. I had to clench my jaw, take a deep breath, and sing to Baby S to bring myself out of it before I passed out while holding her.

2. Did you keep your new year’s resolutions and will you make more for next year?
I do not typically make resolutions, because I try to be the best person I can be EVERY day.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?
My best friend, and my social-brother’s fiancée.

4. Did anyone close to you die?
A friend of the family was murdered.

5. What countries did you visit?
None this year. Hopefully in 2009.

6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?
Financial stability.

7. What dates from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?
May 20th, the day Baby S was born.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?
The discovery of wonder and joy.

9. What was your biggest failure?
I do not have failures. Only lessons.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?
In February, I came down with the flu for a full week, then bronchitis for two weeks, then some crud for a fourth week. It was awful. I could not afford to go to the hospital, so I lay in bed feeling like I was dying. I do not recommend being this sick to ANYONE, EVER.

11. What was the best thing you bought?
A whole van full of groceries and supplies and necessities for a local women’s shelter, and a car full of canned goods for my Church pantry.

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?
My best friend and her husband … they have handled the three near-deaths of Baby S with aplomb each time it has happened, and even the many other emergencies have been handled with strength and grace, and not freak-outs and misery. I love them.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?
My stepfather and mother, for once again displaying the increase in bigotry, prejudice, and hatred in their hearts as they age.

14. Where did most of your money go?
Rent.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?
Finding ways to help others, as inspired by my own heart first, Soren second, and many others thereafter.

16. What song will always remind you of 2008?
Don’t Blink by Kenny Chesney … because for the third time in the last 10 years, I was reminded of my mortality and the mortality of those around me, and with Baby S’s struggle, I reaffirmed my personal goal to live and love in each day to the best of my ability.

17. Compared to this time last year, are you:a) happier or sadder? b) thinner or fatter? c) richer or poorer?
a) happier because I am home with the family I choose as my own and sadder because I miss my family
b) thinner by only a few pounds, but that few pounds is a start to a long journey I am sure
c) richer in love but poorer financially

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?
Traveling to see family.

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?
Sleeping in the hospital - although I will do more of it as needed, because I would rather be there than not be there. Does that even make sense? I hope so.

20. How will you be spending Christmas?
I spent the morning at home with my friends/roommates & their kids; I spent the afternoon w/my best friend & her family.

21. Did you fall in love in 2008?
No.

22. How many one-night stands?
None!

23. What was your favorite TV program?
I do not seem to have a favorite anymore, as I pay less attention to them and more to my social sites *L*.

24. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?
Hate is such a negative word … I really try not to say it or practice the feeling.

25. What was the best book you read?
“The Raccoon” by C.A.W. (my 6-yr old social-nephew wrote it ).

26. What was your greatest musical discovery?
My 3-yr old niece, K.

27. What did you want and get?
I hoped “P” would contact me again … and he finally did. It has been with random, short, minute texts … but at least we are talking. The butterflies and light-headedness set in every time I receive a text, and that scares me. I should not be this affected by someone who I told to go away in a fit of anger and he actually listened. I have so many questions for him, about his life in the last year, but am afraid to ask for fear of scaring him away again.

However, I would rather be talking than not. He is too important to me, whether we are dating or not.

28. What did you want and not get?
A bill of perfect health for Baby S.

29. What was your favorite film of this year?
I rarely have favorite films, because I do not watch them often.

30. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?
Went to Chili’s with both my friend A and my BFF (who are sisters, and feuding) and all our children and had ribs. Received thoughtful gifts from both of them that made me realize they do appreciate me.

31. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?
Seeing my family.

32. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?
Browns … with oranges, certain shades of blue, and greens.

33. What kept you sane?
The love and companionship of my friends and family.

34. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?
Will Smith? Matthew McConaughey? I think those are the ones I mentioned more than once .. but honestly … everyday people catch my fancy more than public figures.

35. What political issue stirred you the most?
The election.

36. Who did you miss?
Him. Her. Him. My grandparents, my family in general.

37. Who was the best new person you met?
I cannot choose one. There were several Twitter people that I met and instantly stalked adored.When I moved over to Plurk, there were many more I met and began hunting down getting to know. I speak to most of them daily by IM/text/Plurk/Twitter, so they should know who they are.

38. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008.
Choosing happiness is not enough. My new motto has changed from “Choose Happiness” to “Find the Joy.” I hope to find the joy in many of the things I do from now on.

39. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year.
How about a few of them … because the story in the song is what brings the meaning:

I turned on the evening news
Saw an old man being interviewed
Turning a hundred and two today

Asked him what’s the secret to life?
He looked up from his old pipe
Laughed and said, “All I can say is

Chorus:
Don’t blink, ’cause just like that you’re six years old
And you take a nap
And you wake up and you’re twenty-five
And your high school sweetheart becomes your wife

Don’t blink, you just might miss
Your babies growing like mine did
Turning into moms and dads
Next thing you know your better half

Of fifty years is there in bed
And you’re praying God takes you instead
Trust me friend a hundred years
Goes faster than you think, so don’t blink

I was glued to my TV, went it looked
Like he looked at me and said
“Best start putting first things first”

‘Cause when your hourglass runs out of sand
You can’t flip it over and start again
take every breath God gives you for what it’s worth

(Repeat Chorus here)

So I’ve been tryin to slow it down
I’ve been trying to take it in
In this ‘here today, gone tomorrow’ world we’re living in

(Repeat Chorus here)

No, don’t blink
Don’t blink
Life goes faster than you think

Stolen from CajunVegan, because she is fucking fabulous!

And yes, I really am a Leo. Not all of the descriptions fit, but … What the heck?

You Look Like a Leo

It’s likely that you have great hair. No matter what the style is, it’s the first thing people notice about you. (The second part is true, although I swear it is just because it is wild.) Your hair tends to be a great color naturally, and it’s likely you even get highlights from the sun (I have red highlights, which prompted me to go fully red). Overall, your body is slim and graceful. You seem comfortable in your skin. Your body is well-proportioned (I may be fat, but it isn’t all in one place). No part of you is unusually big or small. Like most Leo people, you are probably lively (unsure about this one), interesting, and fun loving (definitely). You are a good friend. You are naturally generous and hospitable.

I found this MeMe here:

http://randomramblingsofastayathomemom.blogspot.com/2008/11/time-for-meme.html

However, I think a few more of my blogging friends have used it since!

1. What is your occupation right now?
I work for a small appliance repair company. Normally, I love my job. The bosses are very conscientious (usually), and willing to go the extra mile for all of us employees. It is rather heartening to work for people who truly care.

2. What color are your socks right now?
Socks? Who wears socks? Even here in Boston, I refuse to wear socks! I am walking around the house in slippers, but as soon as I stop moving, the slippers are kicked off. My slippers are green with snowflakes and penguins. They were a Christmas present last year or the year before from Mom.

3. What are you listening to right now?
A random playlist from the music I have stored on my hard drive. One day, I’ll organize it better!

4. What was the last thing that you ate?
A glazed-chocolate donut hole from Dunkin Donuts. We don’t have them close to home anymore, and they are on practically every corner around Boston, so I *had* to get 25 to eat this week. I got 13 glazed chocolate, 6 glazed donut, and 6 “manager’s special” (the special ones have sprinkles, but i forgot I do not like the taste of red sprinkles, so they will go to waste).

5. Can you drive a stick shift?
Yes! I love standard cars, and am sad that most cars do not come in this option anymore. I learned on a standard, and there is something about them that makes me happy!

6. Last person you spoke to on the phone?
A print shop. I am on hold as we speak, looking up some info for my pseudo-boss in Boston.

7. How old are you today?
33

8. What is your favorite drink?
Water. But I consider that a necessity, and drink tons of it. When I want flavor, Sweet Tea.

9. Have you ever dyed your hair?
Yes, it is dyed red … my natural hair is a brown with red highlights (no idea where those come from). I like me with red hair though: people are less put off by my temper when I have red hair (true story!).

10. What color(s) did you die your hair?
Have always used reddish dyes. I have tried lighter, redder, darker … the color I have now suits me best, methinks.

11. Favorite food?
Offhand, Spaghetti …but only my family’s spaghetti. I do not like it when I eat out. Enchiladas - chicken, with green sauce. Mole …family recipe only - eating it out is gross. Chili … most chili is good,and i like white chili, meatless chili, beanless chili …

12. What is the last movie you watched?
We watched “Men in Black” the other night. Fantastic movie. I had forgotten how much it makes me laugh!!

13. Favorite day of the year?
Any day that I make someone smile, or someone makes me laugh.

This is the “Lipton Ten,” stolen from Tara R. over at If Mom Says Ok

1. What is your favorite word?
Goober.

2. What is your least favorite word?
Hate.

3. What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?
Things that inspire emotion.

4. What turns you off creatively, spiritually or emotionally?
Boredom

5. What sound or noise do you love?
The happy voice of my tween.

6. What sound or noise do you hate?
Tween crying because someone hurt or upset her.

7. What is your favorite curse word?
Fuck!

8. What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
Event planner, owner of a small diner, therapy center for children.

9. What profession would you not like to do?
Sewer cleaner

10. If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?
Welcome home! (Tara, excellent answer)

In my own heart, Thanksgiving has always been about expressing the things that I am grateful for having in my life.

As such, I will list a few of those things here … and encourage you to add your own via comments or a blog post (and link-back so I know to go read!).

I AM THANKFUL FOR:

My daughter, siblings parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins … and every other family member I have. We may not always get along, we may not always stay in touch … but we always know that when it comes down to what we love, we all have each other included in our lists.

My friends - especially C - both in-world and online. I have a habit of retaining friendships for years and years … I am not always good at staying in touch, but I think about people I love often, and I try to reach out once in a while to let them know I care. I have made incredible friendships online - two of my social-network friends (Twitterhubby and OBFF) I have DM’d, text-messaged, IM’d, emailed … but not once spoken to on the phone. The lack of voice communication has not lessened my friendship with them … and only serves to give me hope of such communication in the future.

My shipmates … and our comrades in the other branches of service. Without them willing to lay their lives on the line, we would not have the strength and ability as a country to succeed. We may be faltering in the now, but we will grow strong again … and I hope that it is with lessened violence and a continuance of the lack of war-violence on our home-front.

My job … in a time when so many have no employment, or un-settled employment, I have a job that (for the most part) I love. It may not be spectacular, it may not be saving the world … but it is employment, and it is helping to keep me from falling too far behind. As the economy strengthens, I believe my paycheck will see the results.

My home … because while crowded and noisy and filled with people I love but do not always like, it is a home - a roof over my head, a house where I have my own space to relax and unwind, a gathering place for people I love and enjoy.

I am thankful for text messaging, social networks, computers, the Internet, healthy cat food for Mr. Rascal Lee Kitten, comfortable clothes, beautiful clothes, warm bedding, brownies, mashed potatoes and gravy, sweet tea, the ability to walk/talk/see/feel/hear/sing(badly)/read/write/count/add/reason/express myself/type/love/laugh/learn/live. I am thankful for the knowledge that has been passed onto me, and the knowledge that I pass on to others. I am thankful for the sun and moon rising daily (nightly), the weather (both good and bad), the beautiful state I live in, and the beautiful country I call home. I am thankful for the white sand and emerald waters of my local beaches, the highway that is a straight shot to my friends on the other coast, and the two highways that connect to lead me home. I am thankful for telephone service - both landline and cellular.

I am thankful for @MarkDavidson and Shift+OneMedia, for hosting my blog and always being there to walk me through things whenever I try something new (or lose control by EXCEEDING MY BANDWIDTH!!). Mark also hosts the blog TwitterStars. You should browse it sometime!

I am thankful for the love and joy and happiness of people far and wide, and I am thankful for the opportunities that many of us have, and many others provide. I am thankful for doctors, nurses, police, firefighters, counselors, and the many others who dedicate their lives to helping and healing the people in their communities (and often, the people beyond their communities). I am thankful for the many ways people are choosing to ‘go green,’ and lessen their footprint on the environment. I am thankful for the insight and wisdom of my elders, and the innocence and purity of the children around me.

I am thankful for the artists who entertain me through books, films, television shows, music, and visual pieces.

I am thankful that Baby S has been blessed TWICE with what appear to be successful fights in removing the cancer from her body (she is still undergoing post-chemo surgery, so we will know more next year).

There are many more things I am thankful for, but I think I have given you more than enough to chew on for now … I hope you add to, reiterate, and expand on the list I have started here.

OH! One more … it may be last, but it definitely not the least:

I am thankful for everyone who takes the time to read my random thoughts and ramblings on this blog …. I know I often rant and rave, ramble on endlessly, and sometimes do not make sense … but I appreciate the time you spend reading and replying. Apparently there are more of you than I thought, because I exceeded my bandwidth today. Please, comment when you read, even if it is just to say hi! I’d love to know who is here reading along!!

I hope everyone celebrating Thanksgiving has a wonderful experience sharing with people they love, whether it be friends, family, strangers … or all three.

With much love …

Stolen from (who else?) @perpstu.

(And also shared by Citizen Jane and AsKatKnits)

1. When showering, do you start the water and then get in, or get in then start the water?
In the summer, I get in and start the water. In the cooler days, I start the water & let it warm, then get in.

2. Do you read the labels on your shampoo bottle?
No, but I probably should.

3. Do you moan in the shower like the people on the Herbal Essences commercial?
Only when … erm….

4. Have you ever showered with someone of the opposite sex?
Who hasn’t?

5. Have you ever been forced to shower with one of your siblings?
Forced, no … but I seem to remember that my sis and/or cousin and I used to bathe together and/or shower together. It seems some people who have taken this quiz think this is outrageous … it honestly did not (and does not) bother any of us. We wouldn’t do it as adults, but as kids it was NBD.

6. Have you ever brushed your teeth in the shower?
Yes, but I do not do it regularly. I do not like the smell of toothpaste to be effused into my bedroom. I **love** the smell of my shampoo/conditioner/body soap though, so they can waft into my room ANY TIME.

7. Have you ever dropped your soap on your foot?
Unfortunately. Whole bottles of soap too. Ouch.

8. How old do you look?
Depends on the day and, literally, the time of month.

9. How old do you act?
How old do I need to act?

10. What’s the last song you sang?
I’ll Be There by The Escape Club

11. Have you recently become a member of anything?
NaBloPoMo & NaNoWriMo … but I will not be participating in the latter because I suck.

12. What are your plans for the weekend?
Working on a project my pseudo-boss has assigned me (yay!! I totally need the paycheck for rent!), resting, relaxing, and preparing for the busy week.

13. Do you kiss with your eyes open or closed?
Closed usually.

14. What’s the sexiest thing about Condoleeza Rice?
Her brains, I imagine. I do not equate sexy with CR.

15. Does anything on your body itch right now?
Nope.

16. Who’s the sexiest famous woman alive?
Salma Hayek.

17. Who’s the sexiest famous man alive?
Matthew McConaughey or Tim McGraw, depending on my mood.

18. Does every family have a crazy uncle?
I do. Crazy as in, he likes to harass the hell out of all of us and tease us and make fun of us and be a pest whenever he can. Funny, he is also all of our favorite.

19. Have you ever smuggled something through customs?
No. Well, not that I know of…Not intentionally. Wait, have I? <shifty eyes>

20. Does playing the guitar make a guy more attractive?
Yes.

21. Do you live in a city with a good sports team?
No.

22. Have you ever finished off the popcorn and ate the junk from the bottom of the bag?
Not that I recall. I am not a popcorn fanatic tho.

23. Have you ever had sex in a tent?
No. Outside of a tent, yes. In a tree, yes. In a campground, yes. Not *in* the tent though. Odd.

24. What about in a boat?
Yes. Who HASN’T had sex in a boat if they leave near the beach (or were in the Navy … bot of which are true for me).

25. Have you ever dated a Goth?
One. *sigh* We still talk, but he’s no longer goth. RUDE!

26. Would you rather receive amazing oral sex or have amazing sex?
Amazing sex is so much better because it is interactive

27. Can you fix your own car?
No. But I *can* tell the mechanic exactly what is wrong with my car, so I bet if I pulled out a book I could actually fix it too.

I do not necessarily want to be a Bond Gyrl … unless I can have the … nah, I just have no interest.

So, why am I doing this? Because I want to be one of the kool kids like @perpstu

Step 1 — Use the third letter of your first name to determine your new first name (I am Sugar Lustystorm!):

a = Chesty

b = Fantasia

c = Starr

d = Diamond

e = Montana

f = Angel

g = Sugar

h = Pinky

i = Lola

j =Kitty

k = Roxie

l = Dallas

m = Princess

n = Heidi

o = Bambi

p = Bunny

q = Brandy

r = Sugar

s = Candy

t = Raquelle

u = Sapphire

v = Cinnamon

w = Blaze

x = Trixie

y = Isis

z = Jade

(Apologies to those of my readers whose names are listed above. I didn’t make this up.)

Step 2 — Use the second letter of your last name to determine the first half of your new last name:

a = Leather

b = Dream

c = Sunny

d = Deep

e = Heaven

f = Tight

g = Shimmer

h = Velvet

i = Lusty

j = Harley

k = Passion

l = Dazzle

m = Dixie

n = Spank

o = Glitter

p = Razor

q = Meadow

r = Glitzy

s = Sparkle

t = Sweet

u = Silver

v = Tickle

w = Cherry

x = Hard

y = Night

z = Amber

Step 3 — Use the third letter of your last name to determine the second half of your new last name:

a = hooters

b = horn

c = tower

d = fire

e = thighs

f = hips

g= side

h = jugs

i = shock

j = cocker

k = brook

l = tush

m = sizzle

n = storm

o = kiss

p = bomb

q = cream

r = thong

s = heat

t = whip

u = cheeks

v = rock

w = hiney

x = button

y = lick

z = juice

Got it? Now, leave a comment with your new name!

So, a few of you have been pestering begging asking me nonstop repeatedly nicely to get back to you with the results of the Personality by Dessert? blog I posted five days ago (see, not even a whole week, peeps!!).

Without further ado, here are the results!

1. ANGEL FOOD CAKE (Kikolani was the lone ranger here!!)

Sweet, loving, cuddly. You love all warm and fuzzy items. A little nutty at times. Sometimes you need an ice cream cone at the end of the day. Others perceive you as being childlike and immature at times.

2. BROWNIES (super moist and chocolatey - no cake brownies around here!!!) (Miss Attitude, Shooting Asterisk, Beav, r_wolfcastle, badseedjenn, ShuTian, and fgirl)

You are adventurous, love new ideas, and are a champion of underdogs and a slayer of dragons. When tempers flare up you whip out your saber. You are always the oddball with a unique sense of humor and direction. You tend to be very loyal.

3. LEMON MERINGUE (Nethead, NotAMeanGirl, footpad)

Smooth, sexy, & articulate with your hands, you are an excellent caregiver and a good teacher. But don’t try to walk and chew gum at the same time. A bit of a diva at times, you set your own style because you do your own thing. You shine when it comes to helping others and have many friends.

4. WHITE CAKE WITH CHOCOLATE ICING (Nobody on my list chose this one.)

Fun-loving, sassy,humorous, lacking motivation. Everyone enjoys being around you, but you are a practical joker. Others should be cautious in making you mad. However, you are a friend for life.

5. STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE (perpstu, Jordayn)

Romantic, warm, loving. You care about other people, can be counted on in a pinch and expect the same in return. Intuitively keen. You can be very emotional at times but a true person in every way. You like to do things for yourself and help others learn about themselves.

6. CHOCOLATE CAKE WITH CHOCOLATE ICING (topsurf, me)

Sexy; always ready to give and receive. Very creative, adventurous, ambitious,and passionate. You can appear to have a cold exterior but are warm on the inside. Not afraid to take chances. Will not settle for anything average in life. Love to laugh.

7. ICE CREAM (WesAlvaro, Bryan J, g)

You like sports, whether it be baseball, football, basketball, or soccer. If you could, you would like to participate, but you enjoy watching sports. You don’t like to give up the remote control. You tend to be self-centered and high maintenance.

8. CARROT CAKE (with cream cheese icing for Tara) (Tara R, MissRiss)

You are a very fun loving person, who likes to laugh. You are fun to be with. People like to hang out with you. You are a very warm hearted person and a little quirky at times. You have many loyal friends. You were meant to lead and teach others. A wonderful role model.

Now, because I own this blog page and I can, I have added 3 more categories:

9. CRÈME BRULÉE (Kat, perpstu)

You are complicated, with many layers, the most prominent of which is the sweet and delicious outer shell that protects the moist center waiting to be discovered inside. The masses flock to you, and you enjoy the company and attention, but your heart remains with your tight circle of loved ones. You spread sunshine in the world around you, and find the little things especially enchanting.

10. LEMON CAKE WITH LEMON ICING (r_wolfcastle)

You appear to be a curmudgeon who likes making life difficult, though people cannot help but be drawn to your ornery snarkiness. Those you love look easily past the outer shell of grumpy you have erected because they know you’re a great big teddy bear with a sweet (though off-color) center.

11. CHEESECAKE (footpad, ShuTian)

Slightly removed from society, you tend to observe more than you other dessert-loving friends. Your inner need to take care of others sometimes leads you to st aside your own needs and wants to the point of giving up a part of yourself. Once you get a handle on how to hold onto your own soul and help the people you care about, you lead an extremely happy and comfortable life.

Please note:

1-8 have been pretty much the same for years, making their way to all corners of the internet via email/blogs/webpages. 9-11, however, are the results of my own boring avid imagination, tyvm!

xoxo

You can thank Perpstu for leading me to another quiz, because you must now read the results …

YOU ARE APHRODITE

Animal: Dove
Color: red

Aphrodite is the beautiful goddess of love and passion. She is one of the most influential of the Greek gods, constantly being prayed to or asked for help. She is also a troublemaker, getting involved in all sorts of love triangles. Aphrodite is the Goddess that all young girls pray to, to bring them the man of their dreams.

Aphrodite is admired and sought after for the freshness that she represents. She often dives into situations that seem appealing without thinking the results through, but can usually charm herself out of any sticky situations.

Aphrodite formed from the sea foam, emerging as an adult from the ocean.

Who is your inner Goddess?

The Rules are simple:

Step #1 - Link to the person who tagged you:

My sweet friend Justene tagged me this time … she is always incredibly full of love and support for the people around her, and can see the beauty in almost any situation. I have enjoyed getting to know her, and think you should too! Go check her out.

Step #2 - Write Five Fun/Interesting Facts about yourself:

5 INTERESTING AND FUN FACTS ABOUT Angeles:

1.  I do not like fancy desserts. If you add nuts, coconut, or froth … I will not eat it. Plain super-moist brownies and cakes, plump and juicy pies, and soft cookies for me, please!!

2.  I love sappy movies, sappy love songs. If they make me cry, BONUS!! 

3.  I can go through a full spectrum of emotions faster than most people can switch from happy to not. I think I have proven this to my houseguest this week. Poor guy. He doesn’t seem to be skeered off yet …. but I would not be surprised to get to the airport in December and find my plane tickets had been CANCELED! *L*

4.  I like being taken care of … but I hate being taken care of. How’s that for contradictory? I guess I only like it at certain times, but not even *I* know when those times are! Oh, this contradictory nature? Happens with EVERYTHING. One day, if I am in a good mood, my opinion on something could be this. The next day, when I am in a so-so mood, my opinion on the very same matter could be that. Yet another day, when I am in a pissy mood, my opinion could be waythefcukoverthere.

5.  Despite all of the above, I am very easy to make happy. Just do what I ask, when I ask, without asking too many questions or making me repeat myself. Oh, and do things without having to make me ask you to do them. Except when I do not want you to, then do not do it unless I ask. Otherwise, Mystress Bytch Devyl comes out and all hell breaks loose. Yes, it really *is* that simple!!

Now, aren’t you glad you wasted the last 45 seconds reading this? I know you are. C’mon … comment and tell me how much you enjoyed it!!

*Giggles quietly*

Step #3 - Tag Six Other People and link to their blogs. Then let them know you’ve tagged them by Twittering/Plurking them or leaving a comment on their blog:

I dug deep to find these friends … in other words, I went to profiles that I have not viewed in a long time, and discovered a few blogs I did not know where there. The people are interesting, and I would bet their blogs are too!

The first link is to their blog, and the second to the place where I know them from. Check them out!

1. Chris - Darker_Artic from Twitter. He left Twitter once upon a time, but then decided he couldn’t live without us … which is good, because a few of us tried hard to track him down and bring him home
2. Jack Lhasa - jacklhasa from Twitter, Plurk and just about everywhere else He and a friend went on a mission to try and travel around the US while working and raising money along the way. They actually made it across country, but then were slammed back down by the economy and other issues. They are going to try again, as far as I know, and I am looking forward to that happening.
3. Sarai - chunkyrican from Twitter. She is a real sweetheart, and I love talking to her. We do not catch up enough, but whenever we do it is always fun and heartwarming!
4. Paul Steadman - Steaders from Twitter. I chose him for two reasons: 1) I need to remember to hit his blog once in a while and 2) he was nice enough to reply to me today. *grins* Aren’t you glad now, darlin? I’m sure you’ll LOVE doing this *giggles*
5. Devil Blue Dress - of the same name on Twitter. There are times that she and I talk and our conversation is sexy and outrageous. Other times it is serious, or lighthearted. I always enjoy her though. Check her out!
6. Jnez - thirtydaes on Twitter. He is a prime example of how social networks allow you to meet people you would not meet in-world. Not only do we live in different states, but even if we lived in the same state, we would be in completely different circles. And yet, I always look forward to the little snippets of conversation we have. His blog opens his whole life to the world. In the words of one of my best friends, “It ain’t always purty, but it sho is real.”

Okay, so there it is … some of my favorite Tweeps! I do not think they typically participate in MeMes like this … but hopefully they will play along with me this time.

xoxo

If all of the eight desserts listed below were sitting in front of you, which would you choose (sorry, you can only pick one). List your choice in the comments, and I’ll answer in a day or two with your “personality” reading.

I find it works best if you make a quick decision. When you deliberate, it skews the results!

Here are your choices:

1. Angel Food Cake
2. Brownies
3. Lemon Meringue Pie
4. White Cake With Chocolate Icing
5. Strawberry Short Cake
6. Chocolate Cake With Chocolate Icing
7. Ice Cream
8. Carrot Cake

Happy choosing
xoxo

I have stolen this meme from @AsKatKnits … who stole it from … yes, you guessed it: @PerpStu!!

1. Is there anyone on your blogroll you would have sex with?
Absolutely. Most of you know who he is already (including him!).

2. Sex in the morning, afternoon or night?
Yes!

3. Have you ever had to pull over on the side of the road to puke?
Not that I remember.

4. Have you ever taken your clothes off for money?
At a charity event … but we had on leotards … sort of

5. Shower or bath while having sex?
Yes! The more suds, the more fun!

6. Do you want someone aggressive or passive in bed?
Depends on my mood, depends on the person. I am attracted to different people for different reasons!

7. Do you love someone on your blogroll?
Of course I do. *sings:*
“These are my people
This is where I come from
We’re givin’ this life everything we’ve got and then some
It ain’t always pretty
But it’s real
That’s the way we were made
Wouldn’t have it any other way
These are my people”
~These are My People, Rodney Atkins

8. Love or Money?
*sings:*
“All you need is love, all you need is love,
All you need is love, love, love is all you need.
All you need is love (all together now)
All you need is love (everybody)
All you need is love, love, love is all you need.”
~All You Need is Love, The Beatles

9. Credit cards or cash
Debit cards/credit logo. I do not carry cash.

10. Have you ever wanted a best friend?
Not a best friend, no. Close friend, yes!!

11. Camping or a 5 star hotel?
I am not exactly the outdoorsy type, but I do not need 5-star either. I *will* camp, but I will not likely be cheerful the whole time. In inexepensive room, air conditioning, bug-free zone. That’s all I need! (5-star **is** acceptable though! *L*)

12. Where is the weirdest place you have had sex?
In a tree, on the long thigh limb that reached out over a stream. FTW! (Wait, what the hell was I just saying about *not* being an outdoorsy type???)

13. Would you shave your entire body (including your head)?
Body please! (Though I far prefer a clean waxing, all over!!

14. Have you ever been to a strip club?
Many times. I’m a Navy gyrl … sometimes, a gyrl’s just gotta give in and let the guys have their fun!

15. Ever been to a bar?
Yes. I have been to “A Bar/San Diego.” And many other bars too!!

16. Ever been kicked out of a bar or a club?
<shifty eyes>

17. Ever been so drunk someone else had to carry you?
No. But I have been so drunk I had to sleep in my bathtub *giggles*

18. Had sex in a movie theater?
I do not think so. *Other* things, yes. Sex? No.

19. Had sex in a bathroom?
Of course! Isn’t that normal?

20. Have you ever had sex at work?
<shifty eyes>

21. Ever been to an adult store?
Oh hell yeah. In fact, one of my friends just asked me to go with her because she’s still uncomfortable going alone! FTW!

22. Bought something from an adult store?
Why else would I *go* to one? OH yeah, cept that one time … <shifty eyes>

23. Have you been caught having sex ?
*snickers* Uhm. Isn’t the *yes* getting kind of boring by now? *L*

24. Does anyone have naughty pics of you?
*coughs* Again, why so many questions that I must answer YES to? *coughsyescoughs*

25. Ever had sex with someone and called them by the wrong name?
FINALLY another no!

Woot! This was tons of fun - thanks gyrlies for posting so that I could steal steal steal!!!

xoxoxox

1. Do you believe in seeing a rainbow after the rain?
Are there people that don’t? That’s insane! I look for them!! We’ve even tried to follow a few to the pot of gold

2. If you could have a dream come true, what would it be?
The one where the whole world began helping one another, saving one another, supporting one another, and finding ways to save what Mother Nature has given us.

3. Do you believe in eternity love?
Absolutely

4. What feeling do you love most?
The one I get when someone I love (Daughter, mother, father, sister, brother, friend…) hugs me.

5. What feeling do you hate the most?
Two are equally painful: Knowing my dream will not likely come true in my lifetime, and leaving someone I love … whether for a moment or an undetermined amount of time.

6. Do you cherish every single friendship of yours?
Friendships, yes. Acquaintances, no. And I likely will not tell the person the difference unless there is a good reason.

7. Do you believe in God?
Yes.

8. Who cares for you most?
My daughter.

9. What do you think is the most important thing in your life?
My daughter, my family, my friends.

10. What emotion do you like to show?
Love, happiness, excitement.

11. If you have something troubling you, what do you do?
Vent and get it out of my system.

12. Who do you admire most?
People who give more of themselves than they receive from others.

13. Who did you last chat with in a chat room?
NotAMeanGirl

14. What kind of person do you think the one you stole this meme from is?
An amazing woman with a beautiful mind and spirit.

15. What color did you use to dye your hair?
Red. Still do.

16. Why are you doing this meme?
Because they are fun!

17. What do you do when you’re moody?
Vent. Snuggle up with a book. Sleep.

18. At which age do you wish to or did you, get married?
I got married at age 20.

19. If today is the last day of your life, what will you do?
Write a letter to everyone who is not currently within arm’s reach, have a luncheon with everyone that is here, then snuggle up with my daughter to relax, talk, and tell her how much I love her.

20. Who is the person you trust the most?
My best friend.

21. Last time you smiled?
A few moments ago when Tween hugged me.

22. What are you listening to right now?
Tween doing the dishes, roommate fixing the broken door, the cat outside chattering to another cat, and the “beep” of my IMs from NotAMeanGirl and Anne Eliot

23. Who was the last person you saw in your dream?
Baby S.

24. Are you talking to someone while doing this?
Yes - two of my roommates, my daughter, my social-nephew, and the previously mentioned gyrlies.

25. Do you walk with your eyes open or closed?
Open! Are there people that walk with their eyes habitually closed?

26. Is there a quote you live by?
Not any one quote, no. The basis is the blurb that is on my email signature, Twitter, and Plurk:
Choose happiness.
“A truly happy person is happy without anything, and equally happy with everything”
~Chris Walker

27. Do you want someone you cannot have?
No.

28. Who always makes you laugh?
My daughter.

29. What was the worst idea you’ve had this week?
Coming home so late last night!

30. Do you speak another language other than English?
No.

I’m looking forward to all of your responses as well!! Happy Monday.
Oh, and if you are an American in the US, and have not yet done so - GET OUT AND VOTE!

xoxo

Stolen from (as usual) @perpstu

Halloween Horoscope for Leo

You simply have to have the most unique, elaborate, and amazing costume. You tend to hop from party to event, making sure everyone checks you out. Costume suggestions: A geisha, samurai, fairy, or pirate Signature Halloween candy: Skittles Scary movie you should celebrate Halloween with: The Shining