A Friday Five on a Tuesday? This wildman doesn't care whose toes he steps on...

1. How many houses/apartments have you lived in throughout your life?
5, 6 if you count my dorm in first year university... i tend not to.

2. Which was your favorite and why?
My current place... it has all my stuff.

3. Do you find moving house more exciting or stressful? Why?
stressful No one has yet been able to prove to me that change is good.

4. What's more important, location or price?
Location

5. What features does your dream house have (pool, spa bath, big yard, etc.)?
Big tv, and the whole home theatre set up.

More films to catalogue. Talk to Her A+ - another masterpiece by one of the best filmmakers in the world. Autofocus C - disappointing bio-pic of Bob Crane. Imitation of Life B+/A- enjoyable Sirk film. Life of Brian A - Python's best. Va Savoir A - enthralling French drama. To Have and Have Not B+ - could have done witout the singing, but Bogart and Bacall are HOT!

Watched a few good fims this weekend. First, 24 Hour Party People. It's the story of Tony Wilson, a Brit TV personality who figures promiently into the history (or perhaps myth) of punk, post-punk, and rave music in Manchester. The film wonderfully blurs the line between fact and fiction by featuring (and mentioning) cameos by real figures (including Wilson himself) and blending documentary footage into the narrative. While I thought it ran a little long, the films functions as interesting a commentary on art and style as the post-modern, genre-defining music of the era.

Next, I finally brought home (or rather Rachel brought home for me) 8 Femmes, a film I've been anxious to see since I heard about it almost a year ago. Visually this film reminded me of the best films of Jacques Demy (Umbrellas and Young Girls in particular). There's a richness and fullness to the colours that seems almost hyper-real - an effect which adds to, and perhaps allows, the strange mixing of mystery and musical genres. The film has been compared to Altman's Gosford Park; like that film, 8 Femmes appears to be a murder mystery though the solving the murder is not nearly as exciting as discovering the secrets of the household. 8 Femmes adds the further layer of musical numbers which, although fun, speak to various themes and subplots. I personally found that 8 Femmes is more subtle in its use of the mystery genre than Gosford Park. In Altman's film the police inspector never comes close to figuring out the crime, indeed the characters remain largely in the dark. For the 8 Femmes, figuring out who killed Marcel is never far from their minds.

Feb 28 2003: Big Sleep (again)

Started The Way We Were but couldd't get more than twenty minutes in. Apparently the way they were was boring!

Have been reading a lot of Hemingway since returning from Florida. Seeing the man's house really got me thinking about how much I loved his writing. Finished The Son Also Rises in a day, read a handful of short stories; am currently a few chapters into To Have and Have Not.

In recent months I've had trouble remebering the plot points of movies I've seen in the past year or two. This is particularly upsetting as I've alwasy prided myself on a near-photographic memory when it comes to film. I can usually remeber whole sections of dialogue on a single viewing, but lately I find myself remembering slight, vague details but can't recall which film they occur in. It's annoying. One possible way to battle this problem is to keep better track of the films I've seen. Then I at least have a list from which to work with.

So here we go:

Feb 13 2003: 8 1/2
Feb 23 2003: Shanghai Knights

1. Has anyone ever told you that you needed to lose weight or change something about yourself physically? Who told you and what impact did it have on your life? Your perception of yourself?

Ocassionally I get comments about my weight, which I'm very senstive about. Whenever people use the word "fat" in regards to me I get all flustered. I'm not fat; I know that. It just bothers me.

2. Do enjoy the snow and cold weather?

No! I was in Florida last week and if it wasn't for my wife, I'd be there still!

3. Visualize the perfect winter evening. Are you alone or with someone? How does the evening start? How does it end, and everything in-between.
With someone. Starts with dinner, wine, a movie and then whatever.

4. I've noticed that people I work with, even no more than 6 feet away, would rather e-mail me a message than turn around and speak to me. Same goes for voice mail, I find I get more calls when I am away than when I am available to speak to someone. So many things that could be said face-to-face are now accomplished electronically. Do you think that technology has had allowed relationships and human interaction to become less personal? Is this a good thing?

In some ways technology has made communication easier - for example, it's much easier to write things than to say them face to face. I write people I might never talk to, and find it easier to talk about more person things. At the same time, because technology makes that easier, talking face to face has become harder. It's easier NOT to talk, but to write.

5. One thing I've always wanted to learn is how to juggle. I'm pretty good with my hands, so I am
sure I could do it. Yet, I've never made the commitment to sit down and learn how. Is there anything you've been meaning to learn, that you can learn, but haven't? (or maybe you have?)

Be a better person... (haven't had time)

6. On the other side of the coin, there is photography. As much as I'd like to, I will never be as great at it as others. And I am OK with that, still I wish I had the gifts that others have. What skills or talents have you wished that you possessed that you most likely never will? Are you content with that?

I don't know.

7. "AudioBlogs" are a twist on text blogs, where the blogger posts audio files instead of writing their entries. Not far behind the curve are VideoBlogs. While I've tinkered with Audio posts before, I think it excludes too many people and personally, I feel the written word has a deeper impact. What do you think of the concept of "AudioBlogs?" Would you like to hear the voice of your favorite bloggers occasionally? Would you rather listen to or read your favorite Blogs?

I don't know. It might be fun to listen/watch a blog, but there's something about reading a well written entry.

BONUS: How deep is your love?

Why? Do you want to go swimming in it?

Today's Comment Question: How many hours of sleep do you usually get each night?

As many as I can!

Why post original commentaries when the fan DEMAND the Monday Mission? Hang on, what fans?

1. In the states, every citizen is expected to perform their civic duty and serve on a jury at some point. This week, I am on jury duty. Have you ever had to serve on a jury?
No.

2. If you were to ever serve on a jury, would you be able to give someone the death penalty?
Maybe - it would depend on the circumstances

3. One thing that concerns me about jury duty is what my life would be like if I had to convict someone. I'd always be worried about some sort of retaliation from the convict, or their family. Has fear of negative consequences ever kept you from reporting a crime or voicing your opinion?
I think you watch too many movies. I don't think so... well, there was that Gambino double murder thing a few years back.

4. When it comes to convictions, I've never even been convicted of speeding (accued yes, but heh, never convicted). Have you ever been accused of or convicted for breaking any laws? What's the real story there?
No...

5. It looks like I will have a lot of time on my hands this week in the jury pool. I may get called, I may not. If not, I go back tomorrow. Rinse, wash, repeat. How would you pass the time if you had to sit and wait around from 8am-5pm for 5 days?
You get to hang out in a POOL? That rocks. I'd spend my time going off the diving board.

6. One thing I do like about this "civic duty" is that it will be at the downtown courthouse. I LOVE downtown. There is just so much life there. What part of your town is your favorite to visit? Why? What makes it so special?
I like the Exchange. It's old (the city passed a by-law a little while ago that prevents "newer" looking building or signs from going up). It's cool - except for all the bums begging for change.

7. I'm not that outgoing around strangers, so I doubt I will be meeting many new people this week. Do you have any problems striking up a conversation with someone you don't know? Have chance encounters with strangers ever led to interesting new relationships or opportunities?
I have trouble striking up conversations with people I do know. Every once and awhile I'll go outside my comfort zone and talk to strangers, but only on very special occasions.

BONUS: So if I tell you that you're really something baby, will you stay or will you go away ?
I will go... far, far away.

Today's Comment Question: What toppings do you like on your pizza?
ground beef, green peppers, extra cheese.

Alright, kiddies, Monday Mission Time!!!

1. Do you remember the first LP, 45, CD or CD single that you bought? Recreate the scene for me.
As a matter of fact, I do. The first LP I bought (as opposed to the ones my parents purchased FOR me) was Fat Boys Crushin'. I was about 12 or so and rap was just starting to become really popular. My friend Shawn and I hit the local mall - taking the bus by ourselves, another first for me - and each bought the record at Sam the Record Man.
The first CD I bought was probably Summertime by DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince - not nearly as cool as the Fat Boys.

2. What was the last CD or song that you actually paid money for?
Tenecious D. I have since sold it.

3. It is my personal opinion that "Munchos" and "Funions" are the most perfect snack food ever. What do you think is the best snack food ever?
Nachos. Lots and lots of nachos.

4. Comedian George Carlin once pointed we consider the things we like to keep around us to be our "stuff," whereas other people's stuff is just junk to us (ok, he used more colorful language, but you get the idea). What "stuff" do you have that someone else might just throw away if they were cleaning out your house?
Old Star wars toys, comics and sports cards. If it wasn't for my watchful eye, my wife would have thrown the whole lot out years ago.

5. Do you think it is wrong for people to rush to e-Bay and start selling Space Shuttle Columbia collectibles?
What do you mean by collectibles? Do you mean little pendants or key chains? Or a steamin' chunk of hull? Pendants and keychains, while tacky, aren't "wrong", but pieces of the wrechage would be questionable.

6. Does it bother you when President Bush speaks about God and invokes scripture quotations from the Bible during his speeches?
Yes, but the Bible says that even the Devil himself will quote Scripture to try to dup people.

7. I have a friend who think's she's being photographed in public restrooms. What paranoid delusion do you have?*
I think people are laughing at me.

Bonus: Can't you feel the weight of my stare?
Yes, and I've been meaning to speak to you about it.

Super-Fun Survey Time - a big thanks to my ever-loving sister who gave me this one which allowed me to wile away the hours at work!!!

1)Full name: Michael William Boyce, Esq. Well, okay. Not esq.

2) Single or taken: taken

3] sex : Yes please. Oh my, that joke NEVER gets old.

4) Birthday: May 23

5) Star Sign: Gemini, I believe.

7)Siblings: one sister (who stole question #6), on brother in law

8)Hair color: Brown

9)Eye color: Brown

10)Shoe size: 9

11) height: 5'11

R e l a t i o n s h i p s

1) Do you have a boyfriend/girlfriend?: No

2) Did you send this to your crush?: I'm not sending it to ANYONE!

F a s h i o n S t u f f

1) Where is your favorite place to shop?: HMV, Chapters, Gap

2) Any tattoos or piercings: Nope

T h e E x t r a S t u f f

1) Do you do drugs?: No, I won't even take aspirin.

2) What kind of shampoo do you use?: The kind in the bathtub when I'm showering. I don't know.

3) What are you most scared of?: The number of questions missing from this survey

5) What car do you wish to have: the kind with a cd player

6) Who is the last person that called you?: called me? I don't remember.

7) Where do you want to get married?: Am married.

8) If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be?: I'm too damn nice.

9) What was your first car?: 1986 Chevette - Clearisol Brown. Oh Seymore!

F a v o r i t e s

2) Number: The missing ones.

3) Food: Nachos, Spagetti

4) Boys name: Cedric

5) Girls name: Don't have one.

6) Subjects in school?: english and history

7) Animal?: dogs, I guess

8) Drink: diet pepsi

9) Movie: Casablanca

10)Celebrity: Don't really have one.

11)Sport: Tackle football

12) Sport to watch?: Football

H a v e Y o u E v e r

1) Given anyone a bath?: Just me.

2) Smoked?: Yup

3) Bungee jumped?: No but I want to

4) Broken the law?: Of course, the law of the jungle.

5) Made yourself throw-up?: I think so.

6) Gone skinny-dipping?: No

7) Been in love?: Mmmm, I guess

8) Done the Deed: What deed? Is that a euphemism?

F i r s t T h i n g T h a t C o m e s T o M i n d

1) Red: blood

2) cow: moo

3) Greenland: big

F i n a l Q u e s t i o n s

1) Do you like filling these out?: So much it's scary

2) Gold or Silver?: Gold, it'd worth more

3) favortie weapon of choice in a fight: I prefer a mid-sized pool cue wrapped in barbed wire and set on fire, or a steel folding chair.

In pathetic world news, some couple in the states got married in the Walmart store they both met and work in. Sadest part of all is they didn't even close the store. It took place at 11 o'clock in the morning, and customers/co-workers made up most of the congregation. Gee, think maybe these two loverbirds don't have many friends? Maybe it's strangely fitting. Perhaps the marriage relationship will be every bit as crappy and second rate as the stuff Walmart sells. Annulments, aisle 6.

1. Do you care for poetry? Do you have a favorite poem? Care to share some of it?
Yes, I like poetry. Don't have a particular favourite, but am currently reading (and greatly enjoying) the poetry of Paublo Neruda.

2. What does it take to "rock your world?"
I dunno. Don't know many people who would want to "rock" my "world".

3. Have you ever done anything that landed you in financial trouble? Has somebody else's action ever caused you financial ruin? What happened?
Other than the massive student loans I've acquired over the years, not really.

4. Take a stroll down memory lane. There is a song, that every time you hear it, you think of this one person. What's the song, who is the person, and what memories does it conjure up?

"End of the Road" Boyz to Men; Sandy; high school dances and infatuations.

5. I've never cared for football, it was never on in the house growing up and I never developed a "taste" for it. But I've always felt like I "should" enjoy it, that I was deficient in some way because I never get excited about things like the Super Bowl (except for the commercials). Are there any occasions when you feel like you are missing out on something that everyone else seems to enjoy?

Most sports and reality television shows. I mean what's the freakin' deal with American Idol and Survivor? These shows are nothing more than clear illustrations that society is corupt, deceitful and downright selfish.

6. A few of the phrases that get under my skin are "take it to the next level" (which was used when I was told why I was being replaced at Fox by someone who could do that) and "you just don't get it" (always popular in relationship fights). What phrases "push your buttons" and why?
"Is that all today?' or any variation of that phrase used by store employees to upsell things I don't want. "And would you like some popcorn/ a t-shirt/ a sharpie?" Like I'm such an idoit that I go that the check out counter forgetting what it is I really need. If I wanted popcorn/ a t-shirt/ a sharpie I would have brought it WITH ME to the counter.

7. Do you believe in life after death? What do you believe happens when our time is up?*
Yes. Good stuff.

BONUS: Everybody's talking all this stuff about me why don't they just let me live?
Everybody's talkin' at me.They can't hear a word I'm saying.

Okay, so here I sit, alone in my new office at St John's College. Everything's in boxes and my co-workers are all out buying new things for their offices. Apparently the plan is that THEY get new stuff and I'm expected to cull what I can use from the stuff they no longer want. Wonderful. I'm supposed to be working but I think I have a good excuse for not. Someone's hanging pictures in the hall and because this old building is likely full of asbestos, they have to use this special vacuum whenever they drill into the wall. It's loud and makes concentrating difficult.
What else is new in my wacky little life? Well I got an email from an old high school friend. He was on his way to Winnipeg to teach a seminar and wanted to hook up. Though I was a little nervous about it, I went and had a great time. We're going to try to hang out later today, after he's done teaching and I'm done teaching. He's teaching managers about the importance of customer service; I'm teaching uninterested first years about Frankenstein. I'm sure we'll have plenty to talk about.
I think my intial fear was that I'm quite different then I was in highschool and my interests were so different from my friends to begin with, now I'm afraid it would be like talking in different languages. Amazingly it was really fun to see Mike and talk, and not just about old times. Of course a lot of conversation was "whatever happened to..." stuff, but we did manage to relate on a more personal level, and I think, were we living within a reasonable distance, Mike and I would still hang out.
In other news, there is still one person in my life I simply don't know what to do with. Half the time (well, less now) she's open with me, sharing things about her life, but lately even getting a "hello" is an accomplishment. What brought about this change? Search me. It's stuff liek this that causes my anti-social tendencies to flare up.
I've been trying to write as well. And that seems to be going as well as everything else in my life. I have the ideas, I know where I want the story to go, but when I sit down nothing comes out. I suppose I just have to keep at it. I think this is a publishable book, if I can ever get it finished. I just have to believe in myself and all that malarkey.

1. Friday I wrote about "People I Can Do Without." How about adding to the list with a few people you can live without?
People who, for whatever reason, act superior or like they can do without you. And Howie Mandel.

2. Have you ever felt like someone truly respected you? What does being respected mean to you personally?
Truly respected me? No, I usually feel as if people are just barely tolerating me. Being respected, at its simplest level, is being treated the way others would like you to treat them.

3. In (past or current) relationships, what is the "one thing" your partner would change about you if they could?
My "not knowing".

4. Have you ever tried to change who you are to please someone? How did that turn out?
Always. Results have varied.

5. Do you believe in love at first sight? Can it really happen?*
No and no.

BONUS: What will I do if you say we're through?
A Jig.

Today's Comment Question: Where is your "tickle spot?"
Like I'm gonna tell you that. Come on!

I can'r really bring myself to write anything on this site but the answers to silly Monday Missions. Perhaps, once I'm done moving my office at the end of he week, I'll be in more of a writing mood. Til then, here's a MM:

1. Have you ever bought something you were so excited about and found out later that it didn't work? Were you able to return it? How did it go?
I can't recall a specific instance of this, but I'm sure it's happened. I guess I returned it without hassle or else I would have a clearer memory of it.

2. I have a Palm (Pilot) for my date book and such, but have been thinking of jumping to the PocketPC world at some point. Do you have a PDA (personal digital assistant)? What kind, and how did you decide? What do you like about it? If you don't own one, do you want one or do you do better without such gadgets?
No. As I have enough trouble remembering to write things down in my $15 dayplanner, I can't really justify spending a few hundred dollars for something that will gather dusk.

3. What illness do you wind up catching more than any other?
Rabies.

4. Do you like going to see the Doctor (any type)?
A guy with cold hands who wants to drop your pants - does anyone LIKE this?

5. How about the Dentist? Do you like going? Do you go in every 6 months for a check-up?
I've had more needles for the dentist than the doctor - that effects the psyche. I don't like the dentist very much at all. I go every six months though.

6. Are you a "Dog Person" or a "Cat Person?" Do you think a person's choice tells you something about
their personality?
I' m a whatever animal doesn't bite/scratch/pee on me. If this does say something about your personality, I'd suggest getting a new personality.

7. I've mentioned before how me and a buddy of mine have just let our friendship lapse. There was no disagreement, but we've hit that point where we have nothing in common anymore. My life has progressed and he is still living in 1992. Have you ever had a friendship that just seems to have run its course? Where there is just nothing there anymore? What finally happened?
Your friend still lives in 1992? Tell him not to put money on the Bills!!! And can he pick me up a leather tie?

BONUS: Do you want to see me beggin' baby? Can't you give me just one more day?
Who the %*^ are you talkin' to, Promoguy? 

Today's Comment Question: Wanna get together after work and run around? Any ideas on what to do?
After walk you want to run? I can think of a million better things to do.

More Monday Mission fun... Yeah, so it's a couple of days late; sue me!!!

1. What is one of your favorite things to wear?
Pants. I could sing the praises of pants.

2. Did you get any "dud" gifts for the holidays? Will you return them?
Nope and nope.

3. Let's do a few "Best of 2002" thoughts. What was the best movie of 2002? Why did you pick that one?
I don't know. If we're talking about films MADE in 2002: Punch Drunk Love or Far From Heaven were excellent. I really enjoyed The Two Towers as well. For films I saw for the first time in 2002, easily The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp - it did the impossible; lived up to my great expectations.

4. What world event of 2002 made an impact on you?
I'm sorry, there were world events?

5. What personal event of 2002 was the most memorable?
Teaching my own class. Seeing my first real play staged.

6. Is there anything in 2002 (decisions, relationships, purchases, etc.) that, looking back, you would have done differently?
I would do EVERYTHING different.

7. Shine up your magic crystal ball and look into the future. What do you think will happen in your life in 2003? Or, what would you like to happen in 2003?
Will happen: misery
Would like to happen: not so much misery

BONUS: Was it somethin' I said or somethin' I did, did my words not come out right?
 Oh no. It's my fault. It's me.

Today's Comment Question: What are some of your favorite song lyrics at the moment?
"You may laugh, but pretty girls look right through me" - simple yet so profound

1. Which Blog post of yours was one of your favorites of 2002?
I'm not that thrilled with anything I do.

2. Were there any "old acquaintances" that should be forgot this year?
Yes, apparently me. I continue to be ignored one minute, talke up to the next.

3. Did you finish what you started last week?
I don't know. What was I working on last week?

4. Will you be doing anything to celebrate "New Year's Eve?" Any traditional food or drinks you associate with "New Year's?"
Going to a "party" - well, more a gathering. No.

5. What was the coolest present you got this year?
The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp - a film I've been trying to see for EVER!!!!

6. The day after Christmas, around 3pm, I drove by a car where the driver and his passenger were each drinking a beer; there was no mistake about it. I was shocked, because I'd never seen anyone actually do this. And wasn't sure what I should do about it. What would you do in the same situation?

Run into them. No matter what, they'll be charged.

7. Have you ever driven a car while drinking alcohol? Ever driven drunk or known anyone who has? How'd that turn out?
I haven't driven while drinking, nor have I driven under the influence. I've driven a little too soon after being under the influence, which wasn't smart. I have been in the car with drivers who I know have had a little too much to drink. Agai, not proud of this.

Bonus: Why'd you have to go and make things so complicated?
What are things unless they're complicated, sk8ter boi?

Today's Comment Question: How ya like me now?

Did I even like you before?

Well, in an attempt to save myself from an impending nervous breakdown (more on that in a bit) I WAS going to fill out a Monday Mission. However, as has been fairly representative of my existence these days, there isn't one. So instead I'll just type meaningless entries to whoever reads this thing. Does anyone read this? I know, if you come up to me and say "Sweaters, always sweaters" I'll buy you a coke.
So I'm "involved" in my church annual Christmas drama. I purposely use the word "involved" because of its associations with dating -
both are maddening/fun/infuriating/egobuilding/egodestroying. Honestly, I'm more than "involved" - I've done a TON of work on it. I wrote it, cast half the actors, co-directed, designed and helped build the sets; I worked out the lights and have been the one most people have come to with complaints and "suggestions" for next year. I won't get into the whole shabang here (never know who's lurking around) but I don't think I'll be doing one of these again. Though, truth be told, I'm quite proud of the perfomances. I wouldn't trade the people I asked to be in it for anything. But then again I did it all for "she" - not the wisest of moves, but nevertheless. If she's happy with it, how can I be otherwise?
Anyway, happy holidays to all and to all a good night!

Okay, so it's the "holiday season"... bah humbug. But, in keeping with the season, I'll answer the Christmas edition of the Monday mission.

1. So, what do you want for Christmas this year that you probably won't get?

Besides the more ethereal "world peace," "a freakin' clue" answers, I'll stick to the concrete: a new widescreen television and a library of DVDs.

2. What do you know you will be receiving for Christmas this year?

Sweaters, always sweaters

3. If you had the means to do so, what presents would you get some of your
fellow bloggers? Be specific, it's more fun that way!

The only other Blogger I know or even read is Chris: if I could, I'd fly him and his lovely wife to Winnipeg for a visit.

4. Do you support any organizations that provide for the less fortunate during the holidays? Or do any volunteer work?

I used to but not so much any more.

5. Each year about this time, I notice Church attendance seems to spike, then drops off sharply after Christmas. It tickles me that these folks think they are pulling a fast one on the Big Guy. What is the most recent thing guilt has motivated you to do?

Everything I do is motivated by guilt.

6. According to the commercials, the only way to truly tell someone you love them on Christmas day is to let them "Unwrap a Jaguar" automobile. Are there any examples of excessive commercialism and/or blatant disregard for the "Christmas Spirit" that really get under your skin?

Yes.


7. I remember a song where the singers wished they could teach the world to sing, in perfect harmony. What would you like to teach the world?

I don't know, some sort of craft I suppose.

BONUS: Do they know it's Christmas time at all?

Probably, but do you think they care?


Today's comment question: What is your favorite holiday beverage?

Egg nog, lots of it!!! MMmmmmm... it's almost wort the trouble of the holidays to get a frothy cup of nog!!!

1. Do you get sick very often? What illness do you find that you've had most frequently?
I don't get sick that often but when I do it's more an unspecified "sick" feeling than an actual illness like the flu.

2. I know a man who flat out refuses to go to the Doctor's office. You'd need an ambulance to get him near a hospital. Not me, I'd rather go as soon as I feel sick so I can get better. Do you mind going to see the Doctor when you get sick? Do you know anyone who just refuses to go to a Doctor when they get ill? Any idea why they are like that?

Doctors are horrible, evil people who only ever give you "anitbiotics" anyway. Seriously, you could be bleeding from the eyes and what does the doctor say: "I'll put you on antibiotics for a week and, if that doesn't work, we'll get you something stronger. Don't like doctors; don't trust medicine.

3. How about visiting the Dentist? Do you go get a check-up every 6 months? Or do you dread going?

I go but hate it.

4. I've heard about a diet pill called "Thermolift" that allegedly gives you quite an energy rush (oh boy mentioning this will surelybring us all a ton of Google hits won't it?). Although I've thought about getting some of these pill for the times I need a boost, I'm probably not going to take the plunge. Have you ever taken any diet pills, energy pills or energy drinks? How did they make you feel? Do you still take them? How come?

No.

5. Have you heard about "Gastric Bypass" surgery that many celebrities are doing to loose weight? (The process reduces the size of your stomach to facilitate weight loss) What are your thoughts on this procedure? Would you ever consider it? How would you feel if a relative were to decide to undergo the procedure?

Yes I've heard of it. No I wouldn't try it.

6. What do you think the opposite sex needs to experience to fully understand what it is like to be your gender?

A penis.

7. And to lighten things up a bit before we go...What's the most worthless gadget, infomercial item or "looked like a bargain" item you have ever purchased or owned?

the clapper. Clap off.

BONUS: Why can't every day be like Christmas?
What, screaming, arguing, stuff you don't like or want, crying, pretending to be happy. Isn't every day like Christmas?

Today's Comment Question: I have a new, faster computer and I am ready run some new programs and have fun. What do you like to do (games, programs, etc.) on your computer for entertainment? I used to play SIms a lot but then I married my best most successful Sim off and he fell to pieces (rather prophetic, don't you think?) I mostly play spider solitare. That's fun.

Monday Mission Time!

1. Suppose God grants you one miracle. Consider the world in which we live. Consider your life and family. What would you request for this miracle? Are you sure that is the best way to use it? You only get one.

Well, if the ol' I'd want a million miracles doesn't work, I guess I'd ask for something like world peace. Either that or to be uncontrollably attractive to women. It's a coin toss.

2. I believe that prayers do get answered, but I realize not everyone agrees. Have you ever had an experience where you truly believe your prayer was answered? If you don't believe in such things, how come? What is your philosophy on prayer?

Yes I have. I'm not telling.

3. Have you ever lost a pet? That is, have you ever had a pet get loose, run away or be stolen? Did you get it back? How did the loss impact your life?

No I haven't.

4. Getting together with family at the holidays is great, I just love it. Most of all I love the food. What is your favorite holiday food?

Pumpkin pie, though I'm quickly being converted to cream horns!

5. One thing I've noticed about the holidays is that no one makes Pumpkin Pie like my Grandmother. She has totally spoiled me on her recipe, I just don't like the taste of anyone else's Pumpkin Pie. Are there are dishes or desserts that someone in your family fixes better than anyone else?

Nope.

6. Since I have no brothers or sisters, I am always wondering what it would have been like. Now that I am older, it kinda stinks that I will never be an Uncle. Do you have any siblings with children? How does it make you feel to be an Aunt or an Uncle? If not, would you like to be have nieces and nephews? Would you make a good relative to them?

My sister has no children, but swears she'll have 12 one day. That is a day I'm not looking forward to.

7. I am putting together a CD of great holiday music. Do you have any suggestions of what songs (title/artist) I should include?

Fairytale of New York, the Pogues - what better song to sum up the bleakness of the season
Peace on Earth, Bing and Bowie -weird combination of voices, but a phenomenal song

BONUS: How would you feel knowin' prejudice was obsolete and all mankind danced to the same beat?

Just cause they dance don't mean they got rhythm.

Today's Comment Question: Did you see Titanic? Did Rose die at the end or was she just sleeping? I say she was just asleep and dreaming.

She's dead. I killed her.