Stuck in the Middle-Saturday 9

1. In romance, have you ever been stuck in the middle with someone?
I probably have.... but I was very trusting. Outside of romance, I have always played the (Wo)Man in the Middle, I am a negotiator at heart.

2. Which current commercial is the currently most annoying to you on TV or radio? Too many to count.  There are so many local  ads on TV here in middle earth, and they are generally awful and need to be muted.

3. What do you think is the most difficult task when it comes to Spring cleaning?
Moving the furniture to vacuum under it.  Baseboards. I really don't do spring cleaning.  I do it all through the year, if I do it at all.

4. What area is your expertise in?
I do a few things well. but I really excel at being a Grandma. DD1 says Лука is always saying "pertend you're Gramma". I also have some good DIY skills and will have a chance this weekend to get started again. I did a great job with the flowers at DD1's wedding, we did most everything ourselves.

5. Have you ever bumped into a former lover/friend  and found out they were now gay or straight depending on your relationship with them? 
Yes. I wrote about it here.

6. When was the last time that you got stabbed in the back?
I usually got good reviews when I worked for the bank, with the exception of one manager I had, about 15years ago, who use to harangue me about my class surveys.  It was a poorly written survey with only 4 points, which would average out low if anyone scored you a two or lower, and surveys can be somewhat subjective anyway. Once we got a better written survey, I generally got better scores. I wouldn't call that back stabbing, just poor management. However, the one time I internally posted for a manager position I got ambushed. When they got around to letting me know that I didn't get the job, the center manager, my manager, and the person who got the job, delivered the news. Then they proceded to let me know what a bad trainer I was, how could I expect to get promoted if I couldn't do the job I already had and here was what I needed to do to fix it, etc. I eventually went to work under that new manager, and flourished, she was such a good boss. Over the years, I realized that it was good that I didn't get that particular job but at the time I really feel that I should have been told I didn't get the job. and then if they wanted to improve performance, have another conversation. I learned some good management skills then, even if they didn't.

7. For a few years in a row, you receive a nice tax refund: do you make an adjustment with your payroll deduction so they’ll take less, or do you leave it that way so that you can continue to receive the big check every spring?
I never had this issue in California, I actually had to have extra money taken out.  When it did happen, I never change the deduction.

8. Do you remember the most naughty night of your life? (And do tell a bit, if comfortable)
I assume we mean sex here? Yes, I remember, that is all you get! This is a family blog, About the only thing naughty I have done, was telling my mother I was going one place (a club meeting) and went cruising  Bob's Big Boy with my friends. I didn't lie alot because I was not very good at it.

9. How would you handle yourself if you were regularly in the press and tabloids?
I might like it for a while, because who doesn't like being the center of attention. I think it could only be good if I was in the press for good reasons. Negative press is very tiresome.

A Busy Weekend

Gwennie unaware of weekend excitement to come.

This will be a busy weekend.  DD2 is going to be moving out soon.  So this weekend we are going to make some decisions about paint and carpeting.  Mr BC and his sister own a small rental house they inherited from their mom, and DD2 will be moving in, I will be sharing some befores and afters as we make some changes to the property.

Mr BC's sister is going away for the weekend so we will be dogsitting their pooches.  One was Grandmas little dog and she is about 15 or 16 years old so there will be a house full here before too long.  So our two dogs are going to be having a play date and overnite.

I have already skyped with the grandsons and Caшa is growing fast, he is already 12 pounds and has the brightest eyes.  Лука, is moving beyond the small world of home. He went to the park on Thursday and was hit in the head with a rock. OUCH!  That was the topic of conversation along with the airplanes made of Legos.  He has another playdate at his house with Jasper and one of his two dads, what a modern world.  

Saturday Nine-Come Dancing

1. When was the last time that you went out dancing?

Mr BC and I are not a dancing couple so we don't purposely go out dancing. We last danced together at our daughter's wedding.  His mother, however went dancing almost every Saturday night until about a month before she passed away. She belonged to the local Anti Horse Thief Association (really!...a lodge/social group) Mr BC often went with her when he came to MO for a visit. I don't think he danced, but he was asked.

2. Have you ever had an argument with a teacher?

Oh yes, When we lived in Michigan in the 70's, corporal punishment was still practiced in some public schools. DD1, a kindergartner came home and told me her teacher spanked her, something that we rarely did to either of the girls even though it was less frowned upon. I was horrified and went down to the school and made a huge stink. I was smuggly told that state law permitted it and it was a teacher's discretion to implement. Luckily we were about to move and about 2 months later I was able to put her in a more enlightened school.

3. Do you have a tough time remembering people’s names?

I have always had a good memory so when I struggle for names and places now, it is rather disconcerting. I have a hard time laughing it off, because I imagine folks are thinking how I am so old. I suppose it is somewhat of a given because of our age, but I hate it when it happens to me. Last night I fussed at Mr BC because he couldn't remember something I had told him already and had to apologize. 

4. Would you rather change your past or know your future?

Coming up on the far side of my life, I think I would rather change the past.  I am not sure I want to see to far into the future it might be too short.

5. What’s one thing you feel you must do in your life before it ends?

Ah, the bucket list, there is more than one thing on it. I guess it would be to renew our passports and travel with Mr BC.

6. How many credit cards do you have right now that have a zero balance?

One.

7. What is the most expensive thing you purchased this year?
So far, a new laptop and printer.

8 . If you're married, this probably doesn't apply to you, but: Are you mindful about getting tested for STDs/HIV at least semi-regularly? Why/why not? Married people: Were you mindful about this type of thing when you were single? Why/why not?

In the 60's this was not something you did, though std's were around, HIV wasn't.  So unless one was symptomatic,(maybe not even then) one was not tested. Good girls would not have to worry about this....yeah, right.

9. If you could ask the president of the United States one question, what would it be?

How can we get the country to rally around universal health care?

Hope-Write on Edge

Write on Edge has been all about Hope this week. This is a prequel to another story Epitaph. I need to figure out a title for this story.

Newburn 1824

Charlotte could not remember a time when she and John did not live in Aunt Jane’s small cottage just outside the gates of Newburn Hall, She and John had been orphaned at the ages of 3 and 4 years old, respectively and Aunt Jane was the only parent they knew.  She did her best for them on the small income she received from an inheritance.  They did not have much growing up; however they were well loved by their dear aunt.

She did remembered when John  was seven, he was sent to the parish day school when it first opened.  She also remembered Aunt Jane trying to soothe her when she cried that she was not allowed to go as well.

"It would not be proper for a little girl to attend school with young boys; we will continue your education here at home.” She smiled and continued, “There are many domestic skills that I can teach you, which will enable you to be a good wife and mother one day.”

Six year old Charlotte pouted, She did not want to be a good wife; she wanted to go to school with John, read books, and travel to London and beyond. She knew that she had no hope of going to school with John, but she would read every book in the circulating library, when she was older, and she would find her way to London and beyond one day.  This was not only her hope, but was a promise she made to herself that day.

Aunt Jane took the mending from Charlotte’s hand that morning, and replaced it with one of her beloved drawing pencils and handed her a small slip of paper from her drawing book. “Let us try a hand at drawing,” said Aunt Jane. “Why don’t you start with a circle?”

According to Dante, the gates of hell are inscribed “Abandon all hope, ye who enter here.” I challenged you to be inspired by such a warning.

Saturday 9

1. Have you ever felt that you needed to just forget an ex-lover?
No, but that is because I don't dwell on the past and there weren't a lot of boyfriends. 

2. Spring picnics and cookouts are here! What would you want to have on your plate as you head back to the table?
BBQ ribs, ummm.....but then I would also need a helping of dental floss.

3. It's St. Patrick's Day, March 17th! Do you celebrate? Drink Green Beer? Go out?
When I worked, I use to try to remember the shamrock earrings my mom brought me back from Ireland.

4. Did you remember to wear green today?
I need to find those earrings. I am sure I packed them.  I'm wearing an Orange night gown, doe that count?

5. What phrase or saying do you over use?
Okey Dokie! My grandsons giggle when I say it. Mr Bankerchick takes it, that it is time to hang up the phone.  I didn't know it was telegraphing that, so we laugh when I say it.

6. If you could (or could have) change(d) something about your relationship with your parents, what would it be?
I would have asked more questions about them and listened to the stories more closely when they would reveal something about themselves.

7. If the NCAA Men's or Women's Final Four basketball tournament was played in your hometown arena or within easy driving distance from where you live, would you try to attend one of the games?
Basketball is one sport that I can stand, as it goes fast. However, unless someone gave me tickets, I would probably not go in person. During the LA Oympics we got some tickets to watch the USSR, play some other country, they did not win.

8. No matter what's going on in your life, what always makes you smile? My grandsons Лука and Caшa. They can always make me smile, next would be my pups doing something funny.

9. We've asked this before: What else is on your mind? Go ahead and rant.
I am so tired of the incivility of today's politics and pundits. I just don't listen, I pass up blogs, news stories, tv, anything that is presidential.  The office itself is a balance on other powers, so a president can't do ALL of the things they are accused of or have promised. The ability to compromise is how things get done. And don't get me started on religion!

La Vie Nocturne- WRITE ON EDGE

Write on Edge is having us look at anti-heros or antagonist. The way they see it (and not everyone will agree), all villains are anti-heroes, but all anti-heroes are not villains. I have continued this story here.

Jessica met him at the Discotheque Vie Nocturne, when she and the roommates went clubbing in Baton Rouge several weeks ago.  Suzanne liked the club's  dark and gothic design. Elaine giggled that it was supposed to be under vampire ownership. Jessica smiled at Elaine's gullibility. 

The dance floor throbbed with music and light, and they danced the night away.
At 12:30 Jessica returned to their table exhausted and thirsty when she noticed him, looking dark and moody, in the booth next to her.  Their eyes met and his steady gaze unnerved her slightly.

He glided over to her table smiling and introduced himself.  “I am Antoine, I own the club.” 

She was speechless; he was the most beautiful man she had ever seen. Finally she stuttered, “I’m Jessica.”

Antoine was dressed in black. “Just like a proper vampire,” she mused. His deep green eyes burned into hers and she had to look away.

“Yes." May I get you something fresh to drink?” Startled, she nervously looked around for her friends. Was he saying yes, to her unspoken thought?

“I’ll have ice water and a slice of lemon; I’m the designated driver tonight.” She murmured.

He raised his finger to the server and pointed at her with a brief nod.  “I have never seen you here before, you are not a regular?” He had a slight accent that Jessica couldn’t recognize.

“Yes."  "I am from Slovakia” he answered again, without being asked.  
Jessica looked deep into the emerald eyes and shivered.

“I am just good at reading people,” he smiled. The server brought her water and Antoine continued, “Have you and your friends enjoyed yourselves tonight?”

“Yes, the DJ is great and I’m having a good time,” she answered nervously. “I’m not sure where my roommates are, we really should be getting home soon. It’s quite drive back to New Orleans, this time of night.” Why did I say that, she thought?” “Where are the restrooms?” she asked aloud.

“Let me show you.” He lifted her up by her elbow, and he ushered her between the curtains under the exit sign. The air was thick and scented with jasmine. She thought she would swoon.

“That’s OK,” she said as she tried to wrest her arm from him.  He gazed deeply into her eyes and she felt like she was falling toward a cliff edge.

He pointed to the left. “Second door,” he smiled.

Jessica felt foolish, as she washed her hands.  “He’s lovely and I’m worried he is a vampire.”  "Stupid, stupid roommates. . .”  She returned to the table, where Suzanne and Elaine were waiting. Antoine was at another table talking to a beautiful blond and her date.

 “Hey, I saw you talking to Antoine. What’s he like?”  asked Elaine

“Well he is no vampire, but if he was, it might be worth knowing him, he’s charmingly sinister.” said Jessica, “Let’s go.”

Antoine looked over at her and nodded as they left.

"Yes. I am.”  She heard him whisper. She looked back sharply but he was nowhere to be seen. The night air smelled of jasmine.

Laughed Until I Cried-MamaKat's

This week I picked:  5.) Write about the last time you laughed until it hurt…what happened?
Since our girls first went off to college we have spent some time moving them in and out of apartments, with each move we have had to get a larger van/truck because their belongings have grown.  One particular move for DD1, involved moving her from a shared apartment to a room at her grandma's house before she started law school.  This move also involved us storing some of her belongings for her.  Mr Bankerchick was younger then and still working in the auto industry, so he borrowed a stake bed truck from work and we were able in one LONG day, to move all of her things from Santa Barbara to the LA area where grandma lived, unload and drive back to our house to unload the items for storage, so we could get the truck back to the Company the next day. We were both exhausted.

Now here is the funny part: The first thing we got off the truck was the extra mattress that DD1 wanted stored, Tired, Mr BC just pushed it off the truck to the asphalt and started down the steps on the side of the stake bed to help me carry it into the garage. The next bit happened in slow motion for both of us. He reached his foot for the first step.  I looked in horror at him stepping into mid-air. His thought was; Oh No this is going to hurt!  He actually bounced once on the mattress and then again, stopped, looked up at me with wide eyes and we both started laughing. Laughing that he was not hurt and laughing because we were so tired that we did not know what else to do. We were both sitting on the mattress when the neighbors came out to see what the commotion was and we could not talk for  giggling like school girls in relief.

http://forum.thegamecreators.com/?m=forum_view&t=194440&b=4

Saturday 9

1. Have you ever had a romantic breakup that was easy?
I haven't had a romantic break up for many years. I've been married since 1967 and Mr BC is still romantic.

2. When was the first time that you felt betrayed?
When my mom slipped a quarter under my pillow for my tooth.  It was then I wondered if there was something to the no Santa Claus stuff kids were telling me.

3. Do you feel religious beliefs should have a role in politics?

Absolutely not. This country was built on religious freedom and separation of Church and State. I would not want a fundamentalist of any religion or thought to force his or her ideas off on me or have it be a part of government.

4. Are you doing anything special this weekend?
Unpacking the trailer and trying to find space for everything. See previous post.

5. Oreo cookies turned 100 years old this week. How do YOU eat an Oreo? I dunk the whole thing in milk, or crumble it over ice cream.

6. If you could change something about yourself, what would it be?
I would be about 40 lbs lighter and 40 years younger. 

7. Describe a time when you should have tried harder.
I try as hard as I want to, now that I am so much older. I spent a lot of time when I was younger worrying that I had not tried hard enough on so many topics, raising my kids, losing weight, being a better friend. I now DO the best I can and don't worry that I didn't try harder.

8. What is your favorite baseball-related movie?

Field of Dreams

9. What is one lesson you have learned in the past year?  

That I am not as young as I use to be. This move is going to be the last move until the nursing home or the cemetary. However, I can still do it, I just won't ever do it again.

Missouria

We are back home in Missouri, or Missouria as Лука calls it.  We will be here until the middle of April.  We figure we have 2 more trips for moving purposes.  I have officially changed my address with the bank and others.

We had high warm winds on the trip from Texas to our front door then yesterday it got cold and we had sleet, that did a real job on the spring flowers. Today it is cold and sunny and we are going to try to get some things we need unloaded from the trailer and keep the rest stored in the trailer until DD2 moves into her house.  It is rental property we own and the current tenants were suppose to be out the end of December and they keep putting it off.  They were survivors of the tornado in Joplin and they are trying to get back into their house, but the work has been slower than they anticipated.  We feel bad for them as they really want to move, but can't. DD2 is working and is anxious to finally move to her own place.  It can't be helped so we wait.  Stuff is all over the upstairs loft, the garage and our storage shed.

Saturday Nine

1. How much do you worry about your future?

I very seldom worried about the future when I was younger but now that I am retired I worry that my money might not last or that I might get so ill that my quality of life might not be acceptable. 

2. Do you believe that anyone could be perfect?

No one is perfect though many folks feel they are perfect. I am sure even Mother Theresa was not a perfect person.

3. Regarding your future, what is the best thing you could hope for?

Good Health, my grandsons will grow up to be healthy and successful in anything the choose to do. 

4. What's the greatest extent you've gone to help a friend in need?

Listen, give advice when asked and even loaned some money.

5. What did you do lately that was really brave.

Retired early, move to Missouri, leaving the grandsons behind.

6. Tell us one thing you wish you hadn't let yourself do.

In the late 70's I gave myself an afro permanent.  Why???

7. Who is the wisest person you know?

It use to be my Dad, before he passed away. I'm not sure now.  My husband is a wise man, but he has his flaws too. We generally talk over every thing to make decisions. I trust his imput.

8. What's the most tasteless joke you've ever heard?

I don't remember Jokes so I had to go searching.  I wouldn't repeat the ones I read. But this one is repeatable.

The class assignment in composition was to write about something unusual that happened during the past week. Little Irving got up to read his. "Papa fell in the well last week - " he began. "Good heavens," shrieked Mrs. Kroop, the teacher. "Is he all right now?" "He must be," said little Irving. "He stopped yelling for help yesterday."

9. What does your answering machine / voice mail message say?

Very Dull, You've reached the E...... we can not answer the phone etc....

We don't answer the land line, it only takes messages.

We are packed and plan to take off with a load, of our Life, for Missouri, tomorrow morning.  So will not be posting much, not that I have posted much, with all the work I had to do. Hopefully I will get back to regular posts real soon, or at least once the trailer is unpacked.