Inspired by One Hundred Names by Cecelia Ahern, I've decided to ask people some thought provoking questions about themselves, as I feel that everyone has a story to tell. If you're just joining me on this journey today, please check out the previous posts from this series, as well.
I am friends with this storyteller's wife and she always has fun and interesting stuff to say about him, so I thought I'd get to know him from his own perspective this time around. I've met him once (via Skype) and he's really funny and laid back. While his answers here may be short, they are revealing in their own ways.
Name you'd like to go by: LMT
Age: 44
Gender: Male
Location: Indiana
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
Studying in Madrid, Spain
What is your guilty pleasure?
Triple latte
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
Skydive
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
Hand-made cultivator-I love to garden- because it does a great job and is old
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
Proposed marriage
What part of your personality is now extinct?
Party fraternity boy
What is one thing that you find really funny?
How what type of shoe gives a good clue to whether you're European or American
Tell me one thing you love about yourself (or a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue):
I truly enjoy managing people
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
Dune
What is something that not many people know about you?
David Letterman is my second cousin
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Thursday, July 25, 2013
We'll always have "Seinfeld"
It's the dawning of a new era, as our blog project group has changed by one member. As a result, we are starting Blog Project 3.0. The newest member is goodvibrations44, a friend of Moma Rock's, who seems really nice and easygoing. I look forward to reading what she has to say.
To stay in the rotation we already had going, this week was Froggie's turn to pick a topic:
Last November I listened to the book "365 Thank You" which is about a man who decided to write 365 thank you notes and how it changed his life. The topic for this week is: Write a thank you note to someone who would least expect it.
Before reading ahead, first see what everyone else had to say on this topic:
Froggie
Goodvibrations44
Moma Rock
A few months ago, I spent a week writing thank you e-mails to people. I wrote one per day and got some wonderful responses back. This time, I've chosen someone I never thought I'd write a thank you note to, but I think it is warranted. Here goes....
To my first boyfriend,
I know it sounds odd and quite out-of-the-blue to be thanking you 17 years after we parted ways as a couple. However, I think some things should be said, as I probably have never thanked you for these things before.
As you may (or may not) know, I was scared of guys before I met you. I liked guys and flirted whenever I had the chance, but if a guy showed me any attention beyond flirting, I couldn't handle it. I don't know if I felt overwhelmed or didn't trust their motives or got bored of the chase turning into something else, but having attention from guys freaked me out. I wasn't all that nice about it either. And then I met you and something changed. I don't know what it was, but even on our first date (that involved driving all over the place looking for 24-hour diners on Christmas Eve....what else are two Jews gonna do?!?) I just felt so comfortable around you. Maybe talking on the phone a lot up to that point helped things. Our conversations just felt so natural and easygoing. I probably sounded like a dork thinking that "Zombie" by Cranberries was called "In Your Head" and asking if the Bulls would ever play against the UNC Tarheels. Yet I felt okay saying those dorky things in your presence.
I don't understand how the fates aligned so well for us to meet in the first place. We met on a Seinfeld newsgroup and just were e-mailing about Arvid from Head of the Class being on an episode, and suddenly it turned into these e-mail conversations and we found all these coincidences. You could have been some 50 year-old guy living in Montana, but it worked out that you were only a few years older than me, Jewish, and living in the northwest Chicago suburbs. Really, what are the odds?!? You didn't even look like I was expecting you to look, but I didn't even have a clear image in my head. However, I found you attractive and that was the icing on the cake for me. And most importantly, you were funny. (I'm sure you still are funny, but it's not like we're sharing jokes anymore.)
What I'm trying to get around to saying is that I couldn't have asked for a better first relationship. It was a stepping stone for me, giving me confidence in myself and my abilities to talk to guys. After being with you, I formed some great platonic relationships with some guy friends. I also learned from my mistakes in regards to what to expect from relationships. Therefore, I apologize for being demanding and clingy. I'm impressed that you "put up" with me for as long as you did. I appreciate that you told me I was craving security by being in a relationship because it made me think of how to enjoy being single during the times I actually was single. And while we probably should have broken up months before we actually did, I am glad you tried to make things work until it became a mutual decision. It allowed us to part amicably (even though I am sorry for anything hurtful I said to you in the following months) and stay friends (in terms of being able to keep in touch occasionally).
I can't thank you enough for helping me create my first website, as well as the one for the V.C. Andrews Club and teaching me basic html skills. I've met some great people because of this. The internet account you set me up with caused me to meet one of my platonic guy friends (see the previous paragraph) and I have now become good friends with his wife, as a result. I also met a close friend from college because of the V.C. Andrews club, as well as a few other friends I've stayed in contact with over the years.
I also have you to thank for helping me focus on Judaism after a crazy first semester of college. I was lonely when I got to school and would do anything to have friends. If this meant accompanying said friends to all their Christian group meetings and gatherings and then being scrutinized for my beliefs and constantly witnessed to, then so be it. However, when you and I started talking about Judaism, it reminded me that I shouldn't be turning my back on my faith just because I was of the minority amongst my friends. I realized that true friends wouldn't tell each other what to believe in terms of religion and would support each other's beliefs. I stopped hanging out with those friends as much as I had been and started hanging out with friends who also didn't like being preached to. I also embraced Judaism more and taught my new friends about it, but just for their own interest. I respect when someone is committed to and passionate about their faith, but I don't appreciate when people try to push their beliefs on me. Being with you was a huge wake-up call to this fact.
Finally....thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for convincing me to watch Friends. I still love that show and enjoyed the times we used to watch it together. Because I got into Friends, I became close with a friend I met as a result of being a fan of that show. I might not have ever met her if not for that connection. I may have started watching it at some point down the road, but I'm not sure if the timing would have been the same.
I don't know that I will share this note with you directly, but if you find it here and read it, just know that I've changed a lot over the years and some of these changes were influenced by you. I don't think that we would have ever started such a relationship had we met in this day and age (if we were both single), but everything happens for a reason. I like to think that back in 1994, the stars aligned to cause us to meet and to allow me to experience a positive romantic relationship (for my first time dating). I'm definitely thankful for that.
No matter what direction our lives take us going forward and how sporadically we e-mail, we'll always have Seinfeld.
Sincerely,
M
To stay in the rotation we already had going, this week was Froggie's turn to pick a topic:
Last November I listened to the book "365 Thank You" which is about a man who decided to write 365 thank you notes and how it changed his life. The topic for this week is: Write a thank you note to someone who would least expect it.
Before reading ahead, first see what everyone else had to say on this topic:
Froggie
Goodvibrations44
Moma Rock
A few months ago, I spent a week writing thank you e-mails to people. I wrote one per day and got some wonderful responses back. This time, I've chosen someone I never thought I'd write a thank you note to, but I think it is warranted. Here goes....
To my first boyfriend,
I know it sounds odd and quite out-of-the-blue to be thanking you 17 years after we parted ways as a couple. However, I think some things should be said, as I probably have never thanked you for these things before.
As you may (or may not) know, I was scared of guys before I met you. I liked guys and flirted whenever I had the chance, but if a guy showed me any attention beyond flirting, I couldn't handle it. I don't know if I felt overwhelmed or didn't trust their motives or got bored of the chase turning into something else, but having attention from guys freaked me out. I wasn't all that nice about it either. And then I met you and something changed. I don't know what it was, but even on our first date (that involved driving all over the place looking for 24-hour diners on Christmas Eve....what else are two Jews gonna do?!?) I just felt so comfortable around you. Maybe talking on the phone a lot up to that point helped things. Our conversations just felt so natural and easygoing. I probably sounded like a dork thinking that "Zombie" by Cranberries was called "In Your Head" and asking if the Bulls would ever play against the UNC Tarheels. Yet I felt okay saying those dorky things in your presence.
I don't understand how the fates aligned so well for us to meet in the first place. We met on a Seinfeld newsgroup and just were e-mailing about Arvid from Head of the Class being on an episode, and suddenly it turned into these e-mail conversations and we found all these coincidences. You could have been some 50 year-old guy living in Montana, but it worked out that you were only a few years older than me, Jewish, and living in the northwest Chicago suburbs. Really, what are the odds?!? You didn't even look like I was expecting you to look, but I didn't even have a clear image in my head. However, I found you attractive and that was the icing on the cake for me. And most importantly, you were funny. (I'm sure you still are funny, but it's not like we're sharing jokes anymore.)
What I'm trying to get around to saying is that I couldn't have asked for a better first relationship. It was a stepping stone for me, giving me confidence in myself and my abilities to talk to guys. After being with you, I formed some great platonic relationships with some guy friends. I also learned from my mistakes in regards to what to expect from relationships. Therefore, I apologize for being demanding and clingy. I'm impressed that you "put up" with me for as long as you did. I appreciate that you told me I was craving security by being in a relationship because it made me think of how to enjoy being single during the times I actually was single. And while we probably should have broken up months before we actually did, I am glad you tried to make things work until it became a mutual decision. It allowed us to part amicably (even though I am sorry for anything hurtful I said to you in the following months) and stay friends (in terms of being able to keep in touch occasionally).
I can't thank you enough for helping me create my first website, as well as the one for the V.C. Andrews Club and teaching me basic html skills. I've met some great people because of this. The internet account you set me up with caused me to meet one of my platonic guy friends (see the previous paragraph) and I have now become good friends with his wife, as a result. I also met a close friend from college because of the V.C. Andrews club, as well as a few other friends I've stayed in contact with over the years.
I also have you to thank for helping me focus on Judaism after a crazy first semester of college. I was lonely when I got to school and would do anything to have friends. If this meant accompanying said friends to all their Christian group meetings and gatherings and then being scrutinized for my beliefs and constantly witnessed to, then so be it. However, when you and I started talking about Judaism, it reminded me that I shouldn't be turning my back on my faith just because I was of the minority amongst my friends. I realized that true friends wouldn't tell each other what to believe in terms of religion and would support each other's beliefs. I stopped hanging out with those friends as much as I had been and started hanging out with friends who also didn't like being preached to. I also embraced Judaism more and taught my new friends about it, but just for their own interest. I respect when someone is committed to and passionate about their faith, but I don't appreciate when people try to push their beliefs on me. Being with you was a huge wake-up call to this fact.
Finally....thank you, thank you, THANK YOU for convincing me to watch Friends. I still love that show and enjoyed the times we used to watch it together. Because I got into Friends, I became close with a friend I met as a result of being a fan of that show. I might not have ever met her if not for that connection. I may have started watching it at some point down the road, but I'm not sure if the timing would have been the same.
I don't know that I will share this note with you directly, but if you find it here and read it, just know that I've changed a lot over the years and some of these changes were influenced by you. I don't think that we would have ever started such a relationship had we met in this day and age (if we were both single), but everything happens for a reason. I like to think that back in 1994, the stars aligned to cause us to meet and to allow me to experience a positive romantic relationship (for my first time dating). I'm definitely thankful for that.
No matter what direction our lives take us going forward and how sporadically we e-mail, we'll always have Seinfeld.
Sincerely,
M
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
52 Stories: Move over, Chevy Chase!
Inspired by One Hundred Names by Cecelia Ahern, I've decided to ask people some thought provoking questions about themselves, as I feel that everyone has a story to tell. If you're just joining me on this journey today, please check out the previous posts from this series, as well.
I met this storyteller through my book blog, as she also has a really cool book blog. She seems really nice and I've enjoyed reading her thoughts on books.
Name you'd like to go by: Melody
Age: 33
Gender: Female
Location: Southern California
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
Having a wedding with 500 guests! It was legendary!
What is your guilty pleasure?
I love, love, love getting facials. I spend a bit of money (I'll say a bit) on getting facials every month. I just love it! (Overusing love?)
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
I would like to visit Italy. I remember watching this quirky movie with Marissa Tomei and Robert Downey Jr., and I remember thinking, "I want to go to Italy." I definitely do not want to have the same drama she experienced in the movie, but maybe more Eat, Pray, Love. Eat pasta, enjoy the merriment, drink wine.
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
I'd give them my giant, white, fluffy blanket that's on my bed. It is literally the best blanket. I spend many hours reading on that blanket. It's comforting, and warm, and I'd like to give that feeling to someone else.
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
I helped them learn to read. I'm a reading teacher, so I have the privilege of doing that every day. Pretty cool, huh?
What part of your personality is now extinct?
Harboring resentment. I think it came with age, but I don't hold grudges anymore. It's not worth my time.
What is one thing that you find really funny?
My husband. He lights up my world. He's the funniest person I know. I also go onto Pinterest's humor section once a day. So much to see there, and it always makes me laugh!
Tell me one thing you love about yourself (or a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue):
I'd give myself an all-expense paid European vacation. I deserve it!
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
Oh gosh, Modern Family's Phil and Claire are a lot like my husband and I. With some differences to be accounted for (I hope I'm not that uptight, and he's not so dingy!
What is something that not many people know about you?
When I was younger, I played on a Olympic Development Program team for soccer, and I can teach Pilates and Spinning!
I met this storyteller through my book blog, as she also has a really cool book blog. She seems really nice and I've enjoyed reading her thoughts on books.
Name you'd like to go by: Melody
Age: 33
Gender: Female
Location: Southern California
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
Having a wedding with 500 guests! It was legendary!
What is your guilty pleasure?
I love, love, love getting facials. I spend a bit of money (I'll say a bit) on getting facials every month. I just love it! (Overusing love?)
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
I would like to visit Italy. I remember watching this quirky movie with Marissa Tomei and Robert Downey Jr., and I remember thinking, "I want to go to Italy." I definitely do not want to have the same drama she experienced in the movie, but maybe more Eat, Pray, Love. Eat pasta, enjoy the merriment, drink wine.
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
I'd give them my giant, white, fluffy blanket that's on my bed. It is literally the best blanket. I spend many hours reading on that blanket. It's comforting, and warm, and I'd like to give that feeling to someone else.
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
I helped them learn to read. I'm a reading teacher, so I have the privilege of doing that every day. Pretty cool, huh?
What part of your personality is now extinct?
Harboring resentment. I think it came with age, but I don't hold grudges anymore. It's not worth my time.
What is one thing that you find really funny?
My husband. He lights up my world. He's the funniest person I know. I also go onto Pinterest's humor section once a day. So much to see there, and it always makes me laugh!
Tell me one thing you love about yourself (or a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue):
I'd give myself an all-expense paid European vacation. I deserve it!
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
Oh gosh, Modern Family's Phil and Claire are a lot like my husband and I. With some differences to be accounted for (I hope I'm not that uptight, and he's not so dingy!
What is something that not many people know about you?
When I was younger, I played on a Olympic Development Program team for soccer, and I can teach Pilates and Spinning!
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Happiness is....
While my blog project group is on a break this week before re-grouping, I thought I'd do something fun this week. My birthday is coming up, which is a reason for being happy. I remember being sad on my birthday last year because of the Aurora, Colorado movie theater shooting. This week has been all kinds of depressing between the reactions to an intense murder trial involving racial profiling to losing one of the stars of a show I've been watching religiously, only to find out it's the same kind of thing that has caused many celebrity deaths. In the midst of all this crazy drama, a rather famous pre-teen girl passed away from Cancer. I didn't follow her much, but I did read some articles about her and she sounded really special. It's sad that her death is being overshadowed by people freaking out over a jury verdict and five zillion news stories reporting the same autopsy results of a young celebrity. And now there's a certain villain on the cover of a popular magazine. Don't even get me started...
Therefore, I want to bring up an article I found a while ago about things that make people happy. I took the list from this article and am going to narrow it down to the things that make me happy. It's time for something uplifting this week! (I made some notes and modifications to a few items.)
2.Seeing a baby light up with a giant grin
3.Getting a handwritten note in the mail
4.Listening to your favorite music
5.Warm, fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies
7.Cuddling
8.Good chocolate
9.Holding hands
10.Laughing until you nearly wet your pants
11.Inside jokes
12.Spending time with people you adore
15.Getting a call or email from someone you love out of the blue
16.Watching your favorite childhood TV show (I love that my kids watch Full House. I sit there and laugh along with them.)
17.Singing loudly in the car
18.Hugging your babies, no matter how old they are
21.Finding money you didn't know was in your pocket
22.An icy glass of lemonade(or beer) on a hot summer day
23.Getting a great parking space
24.Sleeping in (Would be nice!)
32.Making someone smile
33.Kissing
35.Helping someone in need
36.The smell of a baby's head
39.A peanut butter and jelly sandwich (only with strawberry jelly)
40.Checking something off your to-do list
43.Waking up and finding the alarm isn't going off for another three hours
44.Swinging on a lazy porch swing
45.Snuggling under the covers on a stormy day
46.A perfectly-timed, cozy snowstorm
47.Relaxing in front of a roaring fire
48.A great book (But, of course...)
50.Cherry blossom trees
51.A clean closet
52.Unexpected good news
53.The smell of a barbecue
54.Bubble wrap
55.An afternoon nap
56.Finding an old personal treasure at the bottom of a drawer or in the back of a closet
57.Hitting a bunch of green lights in a row
59.Cookie dough
60.Your favorite movie
63.Getting a giant hug just when you need it
64.Minty breath
66.A long conversation with a favorite friend
69.Tears of joy
70.A fabulous bottle of wine (Bartenura, anyone?)
72.Bubble juice and a bubble wand (Bubble juice? Just call it bubbles!)
73.A newly-fallen blanket of snow
74.Making s'mores
75.The smell of fresh-baked cookies or bread
76.Vibrant autumn foliage
77.A foot massage
78.Licking the batter
79.Seeing a rainbow
80.Candlelight (Especially on Shabbos)
82.Hot chocolate on a cold day
85.Randomly bumping into someone you haven't seen in a while (this happened to me recently)
86.A good hair day (With curly hair, these are few and far between.)
87.When something you were going to buy anyway is on sale
90.Coming across an old photo that makes you smile
91.The season premiere of your favorite show
95.When someone lets you know they're thinking of you
97.Hearing an old song you used to love
99.When a baby falls asleep in your arms
100.Rereading a favorite childhood book
101.City lights at night
Therefore, I want to bring up an article I found a while ago about things that make people happy. I took the list from this article and am going to narrow it down to the things that make me happy. It's time for something uplifting this week! (I made some notes and modifications to a few items.)
2.Seeing a baby light up with a giant grin
3.Getting a handwritten note in the mail
4.Listening to your favorite music
5.Warm, fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies
7.Cuddling
8.Good chocolate
9.Holding hands
10.Laughing until you nearly wet your pants
11.Inside jokes
12.Spending time with people you adore
15.Getting a call or email from someone you love out of the blue
16.Watching your favorite childhood TV show (I love that my kids watch Full House. I sit there and laugh along with them.)
17.Singing loudly in the car
18.Hugging your babies, no matter how old they are
21.Finding money you didn't know was in your pocket
22.An icy glass of lemonade
23.Getting a great parking space
24.Sleeping in (Would be nice!)
32.Making someone smile
33.Kissing
35.Helping someone in need
36.The smell of a baby's head
39.A peanut butter and jelly sandwich (only with strawberry jelly)
40.Checking something off your to-do list
43.Waking up and finding the alarm isn't going off for another three hours
44.Swinging on a lazy porch swing
45.Snuggling under the covers on a stormy day
46.A perfectly-timed, cozy snowstorm
47.Relaxing in front of a roaring fire
48.A great book (But, of course...)
50.Cherry blossom trees
51.A clean closet
52.Unexpected good news
53.The smell of a barbecue
54.Bubble wrap
55.An afternoon nap
56.Finding an old personal treasure at the bottom of a drawer or in the back of a closet
57.Hitting a bunch of green lights in a row
59.Cookie dough
60.Your favorite movie
63.Getting a giant hug just when you need it
64.Minty breath
66.A long conversation with a favorite friend
69.Tears of joy
70.A fabulous bottle of wine (Bartenura, anyone?)
72.Bubble juice and a bubble wand (Bubble juice? Just call it bubbles!)
73.A newly-fallen blanket of snow
74.Making s'mores
75.The smell of fresh-baked cookies or bread
76.Vibrant autumn foliage
77.A foot massage
78.Licking the batter
79.Seeing a rainbow
80.Candlelight (Especially on Shabbos)
82.Hot chocolate on a cold day
85.Randomly bumping into someone you haven't seen in a while (this happened to me recently)
86.A good hair day (With curly hair, these are few and far between.)
87.When something you were going to buy anyway is on sale
90.Coming across an old photo that makes you smile
91.The season premiere of your favorite show
95.When someone lets you know they're thinking of you
97.Hearing an old song you used to love
99.When a baby falls asleep in your arms
100.Rereading a favorite childhood book
101.City lights at night
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
52 Stories: Galaxy Girl
Inspired by One Hundred Names by Cecelia Ahern, I've decided to ask people some thought provoking questions about themselves, as I feel that everyone has a story to tell. If you're just joining me on this journey today, please check out the previous posts from this series, as well.
I met this storyteller through my book blog, as she is an active giveaway participant. Her unique nickname stood out to me and I thought it would be fun to get to know her better.
Name you'd like to go by: Victoria (aka zEmfIrKa)
Age: 28
Gender: F
Location: Boston, MA
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
This is a tough one! I haven’t particularly considered that I’ve done anything extraordinary in my life thus far (but I’m hoping that’s to come). I think so far, most of my legendary experiences are in connection with my work. This might not be the biggest or most impressive thing for many, but I’ve got to go to Paris for work for a week last year. I’ve never been before, other than the airport (to which I’ve been a number of times), and I was just so excited and anxious. It was amazing! It was January, and it was actually extremely cold and I had only one single day off from work – I’ve worked the rest of the week (along some amazing people from all over the world). So, for one day I walked the streets of Paris, all by myself, back and forth – I’ve tried to do as much sightseeing as I could.
What is your guilty pleasure?
This is probably pretty common, but I have to say TV. Not some great, epic movies, or groundbreaking dramas, but something very trashy and addicting like RHONJ. “Bravo” certainly knows how to feed my addiction.
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
Travel the world? Have a kid?
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
Oh! My Galaxy S3 phone! My husband says I’m addicted. (If so, he is too!) But seriously, that thing does so much that I think if I had to part with my most dearest that would be it. It’s a multi-tasker: a phone, a mini computer, a kindle in-a-pinch, a music player, a surprisingly nice camera, the list goes on…
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
I asked my husband to marry me! So, clearly that had to change his life, no?
What part of your personality is now extinct?
I am much more of a hermit now. I used to be quite outgoing, talkative, and super-friendly. But, I quite prefer the company of my family to any other company nowadays.
What is one thing that you find really funny?
My two dogs! If you watch them, even for a few minutes, they are bound to do something totally funny and adorable.
Tell me one thing you love about yourself (or a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue):
I am a total neat freak. My friends and family all make fun of me because of it. Ever do cleaning straight out of bed, 7:00 a.m. on the weekend, in your nightie? No? Well, I do!
I kind of like that about myself – love all things to be in order and clean!
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
I usually read to escape, so I prefer to read fantasies that don’t really reflect my daily life; rather something completely incredible and unexpected. So, I can’t really think of anything that is similar to my life, but I can tell you about a relation that reminds me of myself and my husband. Lord and Lady Maccon from Gail Carriger’s The Parasol Protectorate series. (We’ll ignore the fact that they are a soulless and a werewolf).
What is something that not many people know about you?
I am a blogger. Part of the reason most people don’t know this about me because I’ve only recently started my book review blog, although I’ve been reviewing (mostly on Goodreads) for some time now. I’m still a bit shy about it, so I don’t advertise this fact much, but I’m starting too. So, hopefully more people will know soon! http://zemfirkablogs.blogspot.com/
I met this storyteller through my book blog, as she is an active giveaway participant. Her unique nickname stood out to me and I thought it would be fun to get to know her better.
Name you'd like to go by: Victoria (aka zEmfIrKa)
Age: 28
Gender: F
Location: Boston, MA
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
This is a tough one! I haven’t particularly considered that I’ve done anything extraordinary in my life thus far (but I’m hoping that’s to come). I think so far, most of my legendary experiences are in connection with my work. This might not be the biggest or most impressive thing for many, but I’ve got to go to Paris for work for a week last year. I’ve never been before, other than the airport (to which I’ve been a number of times), and I was just so excited and anxious. It was amazing! It was January, and it was actually extremely cold and I had only one single day off from work – I’ve worked the rest of the week (along some amazing people from all over the world). So, for one day I walked the streets of Paris, all by myself, back and forth – I’ve tried to do as much sightseeing as I could.
What is your guilty pleasure?
This is probably pretty common, but I have to say TV. Not some great, epic movies, or groundbreaking dramas, but something very trashy and addicting like RHONJ. “Bravo” certainly knows how to feed my addiction.
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
Travel the world? Have a kid?
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
Oh! My Galaxy S3 phone! My husband says I’m addicted. (If so, he is too!) But seriously, that thing does so much that I think if I had to part with my most dearest that would be it. It’s a multi-tasker: a phone, a mini computer, a kindle in-a-pinch, a music player, a surprisingly nice camera, the list goes on…
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
I asked my husband to marry me! So, clearly that had to change his life, no?
What part of your personality is now extinct?
I am much more of a hermit now. I used to be quite outgoing, talkative, and super-friendly. But, I quite prefer the company of my family to any other company nowadays.
What is one thing that you find really funny?
My two dogs! If you watch them, even for a few minutes, they are bound to do something totally funny and adorable.
Tell me one thing you love about yourself (or a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue):
I am a total neat freak. My friends and family all make fun of me because of it. Ever do cleaning straight out of bed, 7:00 a.m. on the weekend, in your nightie? No? Well, I do!
I kind of like that about myself – love all things to be in order and clean!
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
I usually read to escape, so I prefer to read fantasies that don’t really reflect my daily life; rather something completely incredible and unexpected. So, I can’t really think of anything that is similar to my life, but I can tell you about a relation that reminds me of myself and my husband. Lord and Lady Maccon from Gail Carriger’s The Parasol Protectorate series. (We’ll ignore the fact that they are a soulless and a werewolf).
What is something that not many people know about you?
I am a blogger. Part of the reason most people don’t know this about me because I’ve only recently started my book review blog, although I’ve been reviewing (mostly on Goodreads) for some time now. I’m still a bit shy about it, so I don’t advertise this fact much, but I’m starting too. So, hopefully more people will know soon! http://zemfirkablogs.blogspot.com/
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Hope in harmony
I've been blogging with three fabulous women for over two years and have been enjoying all the fun topics we come up with week after week. If you want to see what we've discussed in the past, check out our posts here.
This is the last week with the current group, as Mom of Many has decided to pursue other interests. We wish her all the best and hope she'll keep blogging in general, when she can find the time in her crazy busy life. The blog project will take a short break for the time being and we hope to be back soon with lots of new and interesting topics to discuss.
Speaking of "hope," this one word just happens to be Mom of Many's last topic.
Before reading ahead, first see what everyone else had to say on this topic:
Froggie
Mom of Many
Moma Rock
I honestly drew blanks when trying to think of what to write on this topic. It's not that I don't have hopes for myself and others, but writing anything down about that just felt scattered to me. So to keep things light this week, I'm taking a different approach. I'm featuring some songs that have the word "hope" in the title or use it a lot in the lyrics.
"I Hope" by Dixie Chicks (What can I say...I love country music!)
"My Wish" by Rascal Flatts (uses the word "hope" a lot)
"High Hopes" by Frank Sinatra (I love Sinatra's music and I find myself singing this one to my kids. I remember learning that it was used during the Kennedy administration, as well.)
"Hopelessly Devoted to You" by Olivia Newton John from Grease (I've always loved Grease...such a classic...so I definitely had to include this one.)
"Wishin' and Hopin'" by Ani DiFranco from My Best Friend's Wedding (Such a great opening sequence to a movie with a nice adaptation of an oldie hit.)
"Defying Gravity" by Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth from Wicked (The word "hope" is used a lot at the beginning even though it is cut off in this video and also in the middle.)
I hope to have more to write about soon both through the blog project and in general!
This is the last week with the current group, as Mom of Many has decided to pursue other interests. We wish her all the best and hope she'll keep blogging in general, when she can find the time in her crazy busy life. The blog project will take a short break for the time being and we hope to be back soon with lots of new and interesting topics to discuss.
Speaking of "hope," this one word just happens to be Mom of Many's last topic.
Before reading ahead, first see what everyone else had to say on this topic:
Froggie
Mom of Many
Moma Rock
I honestly drew blanks when trying to think of what to write on this topic. It's not that I don't have hopes for myself and others, but writing anything down about that just felt scattered to me. So to keep things light this week, I'm taking a different approach. I'm featuring some songs that have the word "hope" in the title or use it a lot in the lyrics.
"I Hope" by Dixie Chicks (What can I say...I love country music!)
"My Wish" by Rascal Flatts (uses the word "hope" a lot)
"High Hopes" by Frank Sinatra (I love Sinatra's music and I find myself singing this one to my kids. I remember learning that it was used during the Kennedy administration, as well.)
"Hopelessly Devoted to You" by Olivia Newton John from Grease (I've always loved Grease...such a classic...so I definitely had to include this one.)
"Wishin' and Hopin'" by Ani DiFranco from My Best Friend's Wedding (Such a great opening sequence to a movie with a nice adaptation of an oldie hit.)
"Defying Gravity" by Idina Menzel and Kristin Chenoweth from Wicked (The word "hope" is used a lot at the beginning even though it is cut off in this video and also in the middle.)
I hope to have more to write about soon both through the blog project and in general!
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
52 Stories: A Pivot-al Moment
Inspired by One Hundred Names by Cecelia Ahern, I've decided to ask people some thought provoking questions about themselves, as I feel that everyone has a story to tell. If you're just joining me on this journey today, please check out the previous posts from this series, as well.
I met this storyteller through...you guessed it...my book blog. She enters the giveaways frequently and we connected at some point as a result. She's even done some guest reviews from time to time. She's very nice and I enjoyed getting to know her even better through "52 Stories."
Name you'd like to go by: Kim W
Age: 40
Gender: Female
Location: Calgary, AB Canada
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
Almost 8 years ago I became a mom. I now have two very darling special needs children who have completely changed my life. My son has a rare seizure disorder and is on the autism spectrum and my 6 year old daughter also has autism. It has been legendary because becoming a parent is tough enough, life-changing enough, but to throw in this other stuff that you weren't expecting....it's been crazy. And I won't say I wouldn't change it for the world, because if I could, I would take away their "disabilities" because life is and is going to continue to be very hard for them...but I will say that I wouldn't change a thing about their amazing personalities. They are the true loves of my life.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Reading. Reading. And more reading. Preferably at my local Starbucks or in my bed. With a coffee. Or popcorn! I'm getting warm tinglies just thinking of it!
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
Visit New York. Or kiss Taye Diggs.
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
My books-or at least, my love of reading!! I don't have many people in my face-to-face life (meaning, outside of my online book lovin' groups) who love to read like I do, or especially the types of books that I enjoy. So I would love if the people in my life loved to read my types of books so we could talk about them!
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
I work part time at an autism respite agency and I've taken several calls from parents in distress. I hope that I've helped them in some way by sharing my own experiences and advice.
What part of your personality is now extinct?
The 20 year old party girl. I used to love to go dancing, flirt with the boys and just enjoy the music! Now, even on the rare occasion my husband and I get to go out, I'm already dreading the middle of the night wake up from my daughter or the early morning in general, so I tend to keep it calm and am home in bed by 10 or 11pm!! Who would have thought??
What is one thing that you find really funny?
Oh so many things....ok, one thing I'm thinking of is a Friends episode where Ross has Chandler and Rachel helping him move a couch up a difficult stairway in his apartment building and he's yelling "Pivot! Pivot!! Pivvvvvot!" So funny. A person would have to lack any sense of humor to not find it funny!
Tell me one thing you love about yourself (or a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue):
I like to think I'm a kind person. I just really care about people and humanity.
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
My life is too tame for any kind comparison to anything on TV. Maybe Parenthood, simply for the fact one of the couples has a son with Autism.
I sometimes wiiiiish my life was more like a Sex In The City episode , starring as Mr Big's girlfriend! But those thoughts only occur occasionally thankfully!
What is something that not many people know about you?
I love to sing and I can actually carry an ok tune!
I met this storyteller through...you guessed it...my book blog. She enters the giveaways frequently and we connected at some point as a result. She's even done some guest reviews from time to time. She's very nice and I enjoyed getting to know her even better through "52 Stories."
Name you'd like to go by: Kim W
Age: 40
Gender: Female
Location: Calgary, AB Canada
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
Almost 8 years ago I became a mom. I now have two very darling special needs children who have completely changed my life. My son has a rare seizure disorder and is on the autism spectrum and my 6 year old daughter also has autism. It has been legendary because becoming a parent is tough enough, life-changing enough, but to throw in this other stuff that you weren't expecting....it's been crazy. And I won't say I wouldn't change it for the world, because if I could, I would take away their "disabilities" because life is and is going to continue to be very hard for them...but I will say that I wouldn't change a thing about their amazing personalities. They are the true loves of my life.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Reading. Reading. And more reading. Preferably at my local Starbucks or in my bed. With a coffee. Or popcorn! I'm getting warm tinglies just thinking of it!
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
Visit New York. Or kiss Taye Diggs.
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
My books-or at least, my love of reading!! I don't have many people in my face-to-face life (meaning, outside of my online book lovin' groups) who love to read like I do, or especially the types of books that I enjoy. So I would love if the people in my life loved to read my types of books so we could talk about them!
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
I work part time at an autism respite agency and I've taken several calls from parents in distress. I hope that I've helped them in some way by sharing my own experiences and advice.
What part of your personality is now extinct?
The 20 year old party girl. I used to love to go dancing, flirt with the boys and just enjoy the music! Now, even on the rare occasion my husband and I get to go out, I'm already dreading the middle of the night wake up from my daughter or the early morning in general, so I tend to keep it calm and am home in bed by 10 or 11pm!! Who would have thought??
What is one thing that you find really funny?
Oh so many things....ok, one thing I'm thinking of is a Friends episode where Ross has Chandler and Rachel helping him move a couch up a difficult stairway in his apartment building and he's yelling "Pivot! Pivot!! Pivvvvvot!" So funny. A person would have to lack any sense of humor to not find it funny!
Tell me one thing you love about yourself (or a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue):
I like to think I'm a kind person. I just really care about people and humanity.
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
My life is too tame for any kind comparison to anything on TV. Maybe Parenthood, simply for the fact one of the couples has a son with Autism.
I sometimes wiiiiish my life was more like a Sex In The City episode , starring as Mr Big's girlfriend! But those thoughts only occur occasionally thankfully!
What is something that not many people know about you?
I love to sing and I can actually carry an ok tune!
Thursday, July 4, 2013
The voices of America
I've been blogging with three fabulous women for over two years and have been enjoying all the fun topics we come up with week after week. If you want to see what we've discussed in the past, check out our posts here.
This week, I chose the topic. Given that it's 4th of July, I came up with something appropriate: Talk about something with the word "America" in it.
Before reading ahead, first see what everyone else had to say on this topic:
Froggie
Mom of Many
Moma Rock
When I think of the word “America,” many different things come to mind, but the first is American Idol. I watched the show on and off through various seasons. Sometimes I’d just watch the season finale and other times I would watch every episode and damned be anyone who interrupted me during that hour. I caught the tail end of season one and strangely found myself rooting for Justin Guarini (it was the curls that got to me…and maybe the August heat in Vegas did something to my mind). I lost interest for seasons TWO-SIX aside from finale episodes. (Thankfully, I had my sister to keep me updated on the latest "Idol" gossip.)
Then season SEVEN came along while I was pregnant with my younger son. I couldn’t tear myself away from the TV, starting with watching all the auditions and getting caught up in the lives of the contestants. I liked Brooke White and Michael Johns, but neither made it to the finale. I can’t even remember who came in third place without looking it up. (Which I’m too lazy to do at this time.) I just remember rooting for David Cook and being thrilled that he won. I even got his CD when it came out and listened to it all the time.
When season EIGHT started, there was no doubt in my mind that I’d be addicted again. This was probably the best season and all because of Adam Lambert, whom I didn’t even like in the beginning. His rendition of “Mad, Mad World” changed all that and I was obsessed with him afterward. My crazy cougar crush went beyond the finale (when I was freaking out about him coming in second) to listening to his CD over and over….and over again. I still don’t get how Kris Allen won that season, but it doesn’t sound like his career has taken off either. While my crush on Adam Lambert has faded, I still enjoy listening to his music.
I watched season NINE in hopes that it would still be good, but it lost its luster for me in comparison with season 8. I think I only liked two people and only one of them made it to the top 3. Siobhan Magnus had a cool voice and an interesting personality to go along with it. I felt bad watching her strike out after a while. Casey James was the most attractive of all the guys from that season and I love that he sang country music. I know he has a country album out and I like “Crying on a Suitcase.” After Lee DeWyze won, I lost interest in American Idol altogether. I wasn’t that impressed by him and the only thing that stood out was he grew up in a suburb close to where I grew up. Also, Simon Cowell was leaving and I loved his snarkiness. The show would not be the same without him. I didn’t really have the attention span for it going forward, as I had another baby and my book blog to focus on the following year.
For now, I’ll just talk about the American Idol contestants I like the most, aside from who I mentioned already.
Kelly Clarkson: This is just a given. She has really developed her talent and become even “Stronger” over the past 11 years since she won the first season. I enjoy listening to her sing and get her songs in my head a lot.
Jennifer Hudson: She showed those people who didn’t vote for her by winning an OSCAR! And she truly deserved it too. (Just watch Dreamgirls if you don’t believe me.)
Katharine McPhee: I didn’t pay much attention to her after she came in second in season FIVE, but she was fabulous in Smash and I hope she goes on to become a Broadway performer.
Carrie Underwood: Given I’m a country music fan, I get to listen to her amazing voice all the time. Her first two CDs are the best though. There’s a song on her first CD that is not on the radio, but I love it. It’s called “I Ain’t in Checotah.”
Danny Gokey: I think he’s doing some country music, but nothing I can remember at the moment. I just know that he had a great voice on season 8 and I was glad he made it as far as third place.
I know American Idol has produced more talent since I stopped watching it, but I don’t make the associations with the show like I have in the past. I wonder how long it will stay on the air though. There are so many other talent shows out there these days and I read an article in Entertainment Weekly that some changes need to be made if it wants to keep the amount of viewers it currently has.
Have a happy 4th of July!
This week, I chose the topic. Given that it's 4th of July, I came up with something appropriate: Talk about something with the word "America" in it.
Before reading ahead, first see what everyone else had to say on this topic:
Froggie
Mom of Many
Moma Rock
When I think of the word “America,” many different things come to mind, but the first is American Idol. I watched the show on and off through various seasons. Sometimes I’d just watch the season finale and other times I would watch every episode and damned be anyone who interrupted me during that hour. I caught the tail end of season one and strangely found myself rooting for Justin Guarini (it was the curls that got to me…and maybe the August heat in Vegas did something to my mind). I lost interest for seasons TWO-SIX aside from finale episodes. (Thankfully, I had my sister to keep me updated on the latest "Idol" gossip.)
Then season SEVEN came along while I was pregnant with my younger son. I couldn’t tear myself away from the TV, starting with watching all the auditions and getting caught up in the lives of the contestants. I liked Brooke White and Michael Johns, but neither made it to the finale. I can’t even remember who came in third place without looking it up. (Which I’m too lazy to do at this time.) I just remember rooting for David Cook and being thrilled that he won. I even got his CD when it came out and listened to it all the time.
When season EIGHT started, there was no doubt in my mind that I’d be addicted again. This was probably the best season and all because of Adam Lambert, whom I didn’t even like in the beginning. His rendition of “Mad, Mad World” changed all that and I was obsessed with him afterward. My crazy cougar crush went beyond the finale (when I was freaking out about him coming in second) to listening to his CD over and over….and over again. I still don’t get how Kris Allen won that season, but it doesn’t sound like his career has taken off either. While my crush on Adam Lambert has faded, I still enjoy listening to his music.
I watched season NINE in hopes that it would still be good, but it lost its luster for me in comparison with season 8. I think I only liked two people and only one of them made it to the top 3. Siobhan Magnus had a cool voice and an interesting personality to go along with it. I felt bad watching her strike out after a while. Casey James was the most attractive of all the guys from that season and I love that he sang country music. I know he has a country album out and I like “Crying on a Suitcase.” After Lee DeWyze won, I lost interest in American Idol altogether. I wasn’t that impressed by him and the only thing that stood out was he grew up in a suburb close to where I grew up. Also, Simon Cowell was leaving and I loved his snarkiness. The show would not be the same without him. I didn’t really have the attention span for it going forward, as I had another baby and my book blog to focus on the following year.
For now, I’ll just talk about the American Idol contestants I like the most, aside from who I mentioned already.
Kelly Clarkson: This is just a given. She has really developed her talent and become even “Stronger” over the past 11 years since she won the first season. I enjoy listening to her sing and get her songs in my head a lot.
Jennifer Hudson: She showed those people who didn’t vote for her by winning an OSCAR! And she truly deserved it too. (Just watch Dreamgirls if you don’t believe me.)
Katharine McPhee: I didn’t pay much attention to her after she came in second in season FIVE, but she was fabulous in Smash and I hope she goes on to become a Broadway performer.
Carrie Underwood: Given I’m a country music fan, I get to listen to her amazing voice all the time. Her first two CDs are the best though. There’s a song on her first CD that is not on the radio, but I love it. It’s called “I Ain’t in Checotah.”
Danny Gokey: I think he’s doing some country music, but nothing I can remember at the moment. I just know that he had a great voice on season 8 and I was glad he made it as far as third place.
I know American Idol has produced more talent since I stopped watching it, but I don’t make the associations with the show like I have in the past. I wonder how long it will stay on the air though. There are so many other talent shows out there these days and I read an article in Entertainment Weekly that some changes need to be made if it wants to keep the amount of viewers it currently has.
Have a happy 4th of July!
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
52 Stories: Keeping the faith
Inspired by One Hundred Names by Cecelia Ahern, I've decided to ask people some thought provoking questions about themselves, as I feel that everyone has a story to tell. If you're just joining me on this journey today, please check out the previous posts from this series, as well.
I met this storyteller online shortly after we had our firstborn sons. Turns out, they had the same birthday. We didn't live too far from each other at the time, so we met up in person one time. Since then, we haven't had a chance to hang out again but we've e-mailed each other and stayed in contact through Facebook. She's really sweet and I admire how open she is about her religion and faith. I hope you will enjoy getting to know her, as well!
Name you'd like to go by: Blueyes7
Age: 32
Gender: Female
Location: Illinois
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
I know it's completely cliche, but becoming a Mom. It was the most intense, but most beautiful moments in my life. Holding those littles for the first time and knowing they were mine.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino. It's expensive for coffee, but it tastes SOOOOO good! It's like little caramel snowflakes dancing on my tongue!
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
Swim with sharks. It's actually one of those dreams that I want to do before I die. My hubby says it will be the last thing I do, since the sharks will eat me, but I think it would be amazing!
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
My Bible. I would give it to someone who was looking to learn more about my faith.
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
I said, "I have something to tell you! Guess what?"
What part of your personality is now extinct?
"The Party Girl". She's gone!! I used be stay up all night, go out drinking, smoking and other shenanigans, dance the night and wee morning hours away, and still be up and at 'em the next day. Now, I'm happy to sit in front of the TV with the hubs, vegging out to a good mystery show or movie.
What is one thing that you find really funny?
Pretty much anything on Buzzfeed.
Tell me one thing you love about yourself (or a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue):
If I could get a gift for myself, if money wasn't an object... It would be a mini-vacation away somewhere tropical with JUST my hubs. I would be pampered with amazing massages, mani/pedis, sitting by the beach, and amazing chef prepared dinners & moonlit walks on the beach.
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
Everyone who has seen Glee says that it is my HS experience. I have yet to jump on the bandwagon. I know, I know... Silly me. Honestly, I relate to anything with a strong female lead! :)
What is something that not many people know about you?
I'm shy sometimes. It's hard for me when I'm in new situations meeting new people. I get a little anxious, and it takes a while for me to warm up, but once I know people, I'm able to let loose & let people see the real me.
I met this storyteller online shortly after we had our firstborn sons. Turns out, they had the same birthday. We didn't live too far from each other at the time, so we met up in person one time. Since then, we haven't had a chance to hang out again but we've e-mailed each other and stayed in contact through Facebook. She's really sweet and I admire how open she is about her religion and faith. I hope you will enjoy getting to know her, as well!
Name you'd like to go by: Blueyes7
Age: 32
Gender: Female
Location: Illinois
What is an experience that is legendary for you?
I know it's completely cliche, but becoming a Mom. It was the most intense, but most beautiful moments in my life. Holding those littles for the first time and knowing they were mine.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Starbucks Caramel Frappuccino. It's expensive for coffee, but it tastes SOOOOO good! It's like little caramel snowflakes dancing on my tongue!
What is something you've never done but you would like to do?
Swim with sharks. It's actually one of those dreams that I want to do before I die. My hubby says it will be the last thing I do, since the sharks will eat me, but I think it would be amazing!
If you could give someone one of your favorite things as a gift, what would it be and why?
My Bible. I would give it to someone who was looking to learn more about my faith.
What is something you did that changed someone's life?
I said, "I have something to tell you! Guess what?"
What part of your personality is now extinct?
"The Party Girl". She's gone!! I used be stay up all night, go out drinking, smoking and other shenanigans, dance the night and wee morning hours away, and still be up and at 'em the next day. Now, I'm happy to sit in front of the TV with the hubs, vegging out to a good mystery show or movie.
What is one thing that you find really funny?
Pretty much anything on Buzzfeed.
Tell me one thing you love about yourself (or a gift you'd like to get yourself, where money is not an issue):
If I could get a gift for myself, if money wasn't an object... It would be a mini-vacation away somewhere tropical with JUST my hubs. I would be pampered with amazing massages, mani/pedis, sitting by the beach, and amazing chef prepared dinners & moonlit walks on the beach.
What TV show, book or movie is most like your life?
Everyone who has seen Glee says that it is my HS experience. I have yet to jump on the bandwagon. I know, I know... Silly me. Honestly, I relate to anything with a strong female lead! :)
What is something that not many people know about you?
I'm shy sometimes. It's hard for me when I'm in new situations meeting new people. I get a little anxious, and it takes a while for me to warm up, but once I know people, I'm able to let loose & let people see the real me.
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