Lola's Diner

Sunday Stealing - The Never Ending Meme, the end

2012-01-22T13:39:00.000-06:00

Today we ripped off a blogger named Tense Teacher of the blog Tense for a Reason. (Yes we know that we've ripped her off not so long ago as well. It's pretty amazing since she stopped posting in 2007. But that's where we live as a thief). Also, it's long so we'll do it in parts. She does not say where she got it from. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Take the time to comment on other player's posts. It's a great way to make new friends! Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!Cheers to all of us thieves!

36. Have you watched American Horror Story? Nope.
37. Baseball hat or toque? Baseball cap.
38. Do you shampoo or soap up first in the shower? Isn't that rather personal?
39. Wet the toothbrush or brush dry with the toothpaste? Wet the toothbrush.
40. Pen or pencil? Depends what I'm doing.
41. Have you ever gambled at a casino? Yup.
42. Have you thrown up on a plane? Only been on a plane twice. (Back and forth) Thought I was gonna, but thankfully didn't.
43. Have you thrown up in a car? Long time ago. Party days. Long long long time ago.
44. Have you thrown up at work? Unfortunately yes. In fact recently. Damn 24 hour bug. Thankfully I made it to the ladies room.
45. Do you scream on roller coasters? Not anymore! Went on one once and that was enough for me.
46. How many shoes do you have? Well, I have 2 feet...
47. Who was your first roommate? Never did the roommate thing.
48. What alcoholic beverage did you drink when you got drunk for the first time? Old Style beer.
49. What was your first job? Gas station attendant.
50. What was your first car? 1971 Pontiac Granville. Gold, white leather interior. Got 2 miles to the gallon. Lol!
51. When did you go to your first funeral? I was 17. It was someone on my Mom's side. The big lady who liked like an Italian Delta Burke. She always pinched my cheeks. Hard! I hated that as a kid.
52. How old were you when you first moved away from your hometown? 27.
53. Who was your first grade teacher? I don't remember.
54. Where did you go on your first airplane ride? CA. Don't ask.
55. When you snuck out of your house for the first time, who was it with? My childhood best friend talked me into getting up at the crack of dawn and sneaking out of my house to go play tennis over her driveway gate with the new tennis rackets we got. She was going on vacation to WI Dells that day and we HAD to get in some tennis before she left. It was brilliant! Like know one would have heard us batting a tennis ball back and forth. LMAO!
56. Who was your first best friend and are you still friends with them? My first best friend passed away from a brain tumor 12 years ago.
57. Where did you live the first time you moved out of your parents’ house? Chi-town.
58. Who is the first person you call when you have a bad day? My gf.
59. Whose wedding were you in the first time you were a bridesmaid or a groomsmen? Actually I was the best man. The girl who was supposed to be the best man didn't show up at the courthouse. I was best man by default. (And yes, it was a straight wedding.)
60. What is the first thing you do in the morning? Get out of bed. Duh!
61. What was the first concert you attended? Rush.
62. First tattoo or piercing? Not yet. Coming soon!
63. First celebrity crush? I don't think I've crushed on a celebrity.

Thank you for playing this week on Sunday Stealing! Have a great week. See you next Sunday!

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

Sunday Stealing - The Never Ending Meme, Part 2

2012-01-22T04:31:00.000-06:00

Cheers to all of us thieves!

21. Did you go to your high school prom? Nope.
22. Perfect time to wake up? When I've had enough sleep. Sheesh! Really?
23. Perfect time to go to bed? When I'm tired.
24. Do you use your queen right away in chess? There is a wrong way?
25. Ever been in a car accident? Several. Still trying to settle on the last one from a year ago.
26. Closer to mom or dad…or neither? Mom.
27. What age is this exciting life over for you? Umm, I'm thinking God will let me know.
28. What decade during the 20th century would you have chosen to be a teenager? Now would be really cool. Computers, internet, cell phones...really cool.
29. Favorite shoes you have EVER owned? Earth shoes.
30. Do you have an article of clothing you have had since you were in high school? I still have my gym uniform shirt. It was reversible. Blue (for Knights) on one side, white tee shirt on the inside. My daughter stole it as soon as she saw it. Lol!
31. Were you in track and field? Nope.
32. Were you ever in a school talent show? Nope.
33. Have you ever written in a library book? Isn't that against the law? Librarian law? Wait a minute...is the librarian a brunette?
34. Allergic to? Grass (the kind you mow), corn pollen, dust mites, pet dander.
35. Favorite fruit? Watermelon.

Thank you for playing this week on Sunday Stealing! Have a great week. See you next Sunday!
Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

Sunday Stealing - The Never Ending Meme, Part 1

2012-01-21T20:19:00.002-06:00

Cheers to all of us thieves!

1. Song that always makes you sad? Can't really think of one.
2. Last thing you bought? Groceries.
3. Last person you argued with? Oh please! There is only one person I argue with.
4. Do you put butter before putting the peanut butter on? Bleche!
5. One of your stuffed animals’ names as a kid? Yogi. I had a Yogi Bear.
6. Did you ever at one time own a Barenaked Ladies CD? Not the entire CD. I probably have several of their songs on my Ipod.
7. Favorite day of the week? Saturday. Because it usually means I always have the next day off.
8. Favorite sundae topping? Hot fudge.
9. Did you take piano lessons? Nope.
10. Most frequent song played? Played where?
11. T.V. show you secretly enjoy? I think I just found a new one. "Vanilla Ice Project" on DIY network.
12. Would you rather play basketball or hockey? Basketball. I've never played hockey.
13. Date someone older or younger? Younger! Always younger!
14. One place you could travel right now? Right now? Downstairs. Lol! I'm broke. But I'd love to go to Key West or Vegas baby!
15. Do you use umbrellas? If I happen to have one when it's raining, yes.
16. Do you know all the words to the Canadian national anthem? Umm, this is America! Why would I know the words to the Canadian national anthem? Oh Can a da! Not!
17. Favorite cheese? Brie.
18. The Smith’s or The Cure? The Cure.
19. Do you prefer blondes or brunettes? Brunettes. Totally!
20. Best job you ever had? The one I have right now!

Thank you for playing this week on Sunday Stealing! Have a great week. See you next Sunday!

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

How long can you survive without a microwave oven?

2012-01-21T12:17:00.005-06:00

It's 2012. I'm 50. I purchased my first microwave oven for my Mom in about 1980. It was huge!
That means I survived almost 20 years without one!

We have not had a working microwave oven set up for 2 weeks now. It took a week to purchase one because of my hectic schedule. It's a bit larger than the old one, so I am still contemplating where to put the new one.
My children are suffering immensely.

How can we heat up a can of Campbells?
How can I heat up a can of Chef Boy R u Lazy?
There's nothing to eat...no we can't have leftovers, there isn't any way to heat them up!

OMG! You would not believe the drama!

How did I ever survive my first 20 years of life?

When I tell them they have to heat up Campbells the old fashion way...put it in a saucepan on the stove and turn on the stove, they roll their eyes at me as if I were stark raving mad!

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T20:23:00.003-06:00

So how did you celebrate New Year's Eve? We stayed home with the kids. We had an opportunity to go out with friends, but chose to spend the night in. Not everyone can party it up like this every year, though I would like to attempt to top it. Lol! We watched the Big Bang Theory marathon on TBS, then turned over to Dick Clark just as the ball was dropping. Perfect timing! Who wants to hear Ryan Seacrest babble and...the glare from his teeth! Then we watched Countdown Chicago on Chanel 7. Gotta say...Janet Davies does not disappoint! This was Janet last year:

Unfortunately no one you tubed it. In case you missed it, at midnight Janet Davis planted a big wet one on Mark Giangreco's lips and sucked face for what seemed like forever. Lol!

Sunday I made Hoppin' John and Smothered Greens. For the recipes, go here. Best I've ever made!

Lola's Diner ©2008-2012

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2011-12-25T10:35:00.005-06:00

I hope everyone is having a fabulous Christmas. I will give you a tip though...never, NEVER, EVER decide to redecorate your living room right before Christmas. On the 23rd I was putting up drapes. At 11:30pm we made a run to Kmart to pick up more valances because even though they covered the windows, they did not gather and look right. Kmart in Tinley Park was super crowded at that hour, surprisingly. I was able to pick up the additional valances and more drapery hooks. Why I needed more, I have no idea.

Christmas Eve I was up at 7am, even though I went to bed at nearly 2am. I had a ton of stuff to do. The drapes all needed ironing. (Don't believe what those steamer cleaner things say about being able to steam drapes while hanging, cuz it doesn't work.) I had to take the drapes down and iron them the ol' fashioned way. Then we had to put the tree up, and of course there were complications with that, but my gf was able to fluff it and get the lights mostly working. Didn't start wrapping until 7pm. My gf helped with that. We actually went to bed at our normal bedtime, surprisingly. Such a nice treat after years of staying up doing marathon wrapping and assembly sessions until 4am!

Of course the kids were up since 6am, (what? Are they 5?). But I was having none of that!

Very nice Christmas morning. Time to start the turkey!

Hope you all are having a great Christmas!

I guess Blogger is too busy, won't let me upload any photos, I will try later.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

Update on my Walmart Rant on poor customer service...

2011-12-21T21:02:00.002-06:00

Update:

A "manager" called me from Walmart and wanted all the details on how I did not receive good customer service. She wanted to know exactly what happened and who did what.

I'm sorry, but the elderly Greeter did everything I think she possibly could, it wasn't her fault that the other employees who were standing around doing nothing chatting with each other didn't help.

Nor was it her fault that the manager on duty walked away and she had to run after him. The Greeter should not get in trouble.

Anyway, turns out that store only got 4 of the item that had a poster prominently displayed at the entrance. FOUR! And they sold out right way. The "manager" who phoned me claimed they were contractually required to keep the poster displayed for a certain amount of time. She told me exactly where the books WERE. Near the toy department. No one directed me there. She also said someone should have accompanied me on my hunt, or gone to look and have me wait. Nothing of the sort happened.

She claimed they were having a managers meeting at 9pm Wednesday night and they were going to discuss this so it doesn't happen again. Bravo Walmart! I am soooo glad that I helped you to improve your customer service and so happy to know that you are throwing the Greeter under the bus and blaming her.

I'm so happy that I had to go chasing this item down at a competitor and pay more.

Thank you so much Walmart for allowing me to waste my valuable time, not only in your store, being led on a wild goose chase for over an hour, but also on the phone.

And what do I have to show for helping them improve their shoddy customer service? Bupkus! Nada! Zip! Zilch! Nothing! Way to go Walmart!

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

Random Tuesday Thoughts and Rants

2011-12-20T03:42:00.002-06:00

First a rant. I've been doing some redecorating and planned on painting my living room a kind of Chocolate Milk (going with the diner theme here), with the accent wall in Coffee. I purchased paint at Home Depot. I purchased their Behr brand which I've used before and never had a problem with. The color I was covering was more of a very light mocha, so I wasn't covering a dark color. The lighter color I chose seemed to go on well with pretty good coverage. I did need 2 coats, but no big deal, I can deal with 2. When I started brushing on the darker color, the paint was so thin that I was getting bristle streaks as if I had thinned down the paint to do a faux finish. I did not thin it down. I stirred it thoroughly. Ok, so the brush wasn't working well, so I tried a roller. A new roller of the same kind I used with the other paint. Same thing! It was going on very light, like it was too thin, as if it were paint thinned to faux finish. It was going on like watered down crap. I even tried a foam roller that said it was for painting furniture. That covered a bit better, but not much. So far I think I've got 4 coats of that paint on that one wall and it still doesn't look right. And there are drips and runs too. Tonight we'll be at it again, analyzing the wall looking for light areas that need another coat...and swearing a blue streak.

I've been painting since Friday and I'm exhausted so on Sunday my son makes lunch. Grilled cheese. And yes, he made some for everyone. I go to grab 1 from the 2 that were done and my son says "Mom...the dark one is yours because I know you like it dark." To which I respond, "no, I don't, but when I make them and one gets overdone, I take it because I know no one else will eat it." Lmao! Cuz that's what Moms do!

Another rant, this one about Walmart. I went to Walmart to pick up a few things for dinner and to knock off a few items from this Santa's helper's list. I saw one of the items on my list in a prominent display at the entrance. I went to the department that the item should have been in, nothing. I cruised the entire store twice. Nothing. Then I zipped over to the entrance to ask the Greeter. The Greeter didn't know, but asked a group of employees standing at a register (yes, standing at 1 register doing nothing). They said they didn't know and suggested looking in the department behind the obvious department. Really? The 2 departments have nothing to do with each other. I know it's a wild goose chase, but I go anyway. Not there! Big surprise. So I zip back to the Greeter and let her know it wasn't there. She hollers over to the manager who turns around and goes the other way. How do I know this? Because the Greeter says "why is the manager walking the other way?" Umm...am I supposed to know this? So she trots down to the manager, comes back and tells me the same department. Really? So now I'm ticked! I tool around the store another time (I know, most of you would have given up, but this 1 item would have FINISHED my Christmas shopping). I thoroughly look at every end cap and every display lining the aisles. It's not f'n anywhere! I want to know why someone at Walmart couldn't look on their computers and find out where the item was being displayed? They use computer generated planograms for store displays, there would be one for this item. Not only that...it's WALMART! You can't tell me that they don't know what occupies each square inch of their stores. And if they don't have even one of the item...then remove the display that is prominently featured at the store entrance! I emailed a complaint, I'll let you know if I hear anything.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

What was the best Christmas Party you ever attended or hosted?

2011-12-12T04:49:00.000-06:00

As my office Christmas party approaches, which I am dreading by the way, it made me think of this post back from 2008. I dread it because I've heard there are going to be "games". Now I googled "Christmas Office Party Games", and that made me even more dread it.

One of the replies to one of my Christmas traditions posts made me realize that posting these has helped me reminisce and is really helping me get into the Christmas spirit. I hope it’s giving you all a chance to get into the Christmas spirit too!

Today’s questions is:

What was the best Christmas party you ever either attended or hosted?

And yes, I’d love to hear your drunken office party stories too. Lol!
I have to cheat and share 2 Christmas party stories. Hey, it’s my blog and I can do what I want.

The best Christmas party I ever hosted bk (before kids) was a potluck “theme” party. The theme was childhood favorites. I think this was the best idea for a party I ever had, and the most successful party I hosted. My contribution to the party was a baked ham, homemade split pea soup and homemade apple pie. One guest made the most delicious, incredibly fattening, wonderful, homemade Macaroni and Cheese. The most notable contribution though was Fluffernutter Sandwiches. I thought these things were nasty sweet, but in terms of following the theme, they were definitely the winner.

The best Christmas party ak (after kids) was the year of my son’s first Christmas, my daughter was 1 ½ years old. First a little history on that year’s Christmas. I was living in Chicago at the time and decided to bundle up both kids and head to Marshall Fields on State Street to visit Santa. First off, I don’t know what the hell I was thinking. Dragging two little ones on your own all the way downtown isn’t the greatest of plans, but I was determined to have their pictures taken with Marshall Fields' Santa. Thankfully the line wasn’t very long and we made our way up to Santa and the Elf photographer fairly quickly. Finally it was our turn. My daughter was first. Santa didn’t even bother to chat, the elf parked her on his knee and went back and snapped the picture. No "and what do you want for Christmas" or "have you been a good little girl". Same thing with my son, park him on Santa's lap, shoot the picture. No coochie coo, no waving a stuffed animal to get his attention, just snap, grab him off Santa’s lap and pass him back to me.

When I got the photo packages I ordered I was furious at having spent a ridiculous sum of money for crappy, hastily snapped photos. It was not the 'memory' I expected after having plunking down that much hard earned cash. After we got home the more I thought about it, the angrier I got. I decided to write a letter to the head of Marshall Fields Public Relations Department. I even called to find out the person's name. I figured if nothing else it would be an exercise that would allow me to vent. About a week later, to my surprise I got a phone call from someone from their Public Relations Department. The Marshall Fields rep apologized profusely for my bad experience and they wanted to make it right. They offered to send their best Santa (aka Mr. O’Riley) to our apartment so my kids could have a personal visit with him and we could take as many photos as we wanted. As luck would have it, we were having a holiday party that Saturday. They juggled Santa’s schedule and promised to have him stop by during the party. They also refunded the money I spent on the photo packages.

When guests started arriving at our holiday party that night we told them we ‘might’ have a surprise visitor. Everyone thought that meant that my husband (now ex-husband) would be ‘disappearing’ while Santa made his appearance. Boy were they surprised when Santa showed up and my ex-husband walked in right behind Santa. Santa gave our kids stockings filled with goodies and gave us mugs filled with candies. Santa had every child (and every adult that wanted to) sit on his lap and talked and laughed with each and every one. Santa let us take as many pictures as we wanted to. Everyone had a really good laugh when Grandma sat on Santa’s lap. The picture below is the only photo I could find.
Marshall Fields was the best, truly. It’s really sad they no longer exist.

That's Santa and my daughter. She's still a cutie!

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

Sunday Stealing - The Blue Memory Meme Part 2

2011-12-11T05:14:00.000-06:00

The Blue Memory Meme, Part Two

Welcome back to Sunday Stealing which originated on WTIT: The Blog authored by Bud Weiser. Here we will steal all types of memes from every corner of the blogosphere. Our promise to you is that we will work hard to find the most interesting and intelligent memes. You may have heard of the expression, “honor amongst thieves”. In that age-old tradition, we also have our rules. First, we always credit the blog that we stole it from and we will “fess up” to the blog owner where we stole the meme. We also provide a link to the victim's post. (It's our way of saying "Thanks!") We do sometimes edit the original meme, usually to make it more relevant to our global players, to challenge our players, sometimes to select that meme's best questions, or simply to make it less repetitive from either this new meme or recently asked questions from a prior featured meme. Let's go!!!

Today we ripped off a blogger and blog called BlueLifeMemories. It's long so we will do it in two parts. She states she stole it from a friend, but did not say which friend. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Take the time to comment on other player's posts. It's a great way to make new friends! Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Sunday Stealing: The Blue Memory Meme, Part Two

Cheers to all of us thieves!

26) Are you happy with the person you've become? Yes, I am. However, it would be nice to have enough money to pay my bills and not be so stressed.

27) What's a sound you hate; sound you love? Sound I hate? That's easy...Drummer boy aka Metallica-head when he's playing music...whether it's the drums, electric guitar, or music. Sound I love...my kids laughter.

28) What's your biggest "what if"? What if I'm not around for those who need me.

29) Do you believe in ghosts? After watching Celebrity Ghost stories most of Saturday afternoon, I'd say no. Some of these are so hokey, it's ridiculous.

30) How about aliens? I've heard about Dennis Rodman. LMFAO!

31) What is the single best decision you have made in your life so far? Coming out.

32) What's the worst place you have ever been to? The mall during the holidays!

33) Can insanity bring on more creativity? That depends on the kind of insanity...

34) Most attractive actor of your opposite gender? Hmm...can't really think. Antonio Banderas comes to mind, but I think it's more his accent than his looks.

35) To you, what is the meaning of life? Family, love, peace.

36) Define “Art”. Art can be anything, it's how each person interprets it.

37) Do you believe in luck? Yes, and I could use some right now.

38) In your opinion, what makes a great relationship? Communication.

39) What's a song that always makes you happy when you hear it? Rem's "Shiny Happy People"!

40) Where were you yesterday? Home all day. Was supposed to paint, but messed up my back, so spent most of the day in bed.

41) What's the worst injury you've ever had? When I was 7 years old and missed the screen door handle and my hand went through the glass.

42) Do you have any obsessions right now? Words With Friends on Facebook. Omg! I love that game! Why don't they have it on bb? I am getting bored with Word Mole.

43) What's up? The ceiling.

44) Ever had a rumor spread about you? Not that I know of. Hear anything juicy?

45) Do you believe in real magic? Define "real" magic?

46) Do you ever hold grudges against people who have done you wrong? In rare cases.

47) What's your favorite (non-pet) animal? Penguin.

48) What is your secret weapon to get people to like you? Magnetism.

49) Where is your best friend? Dunno.

50) What do you think is Satan's last name? Wtf kind of question is that?

Thank you for playing this week on Sunday Stealing! Please leave a comment or link when you have posted. Stop back and visit other player’s posts. That is really what this is all about, making new friends! Have a great week. See you next Sunday!

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

Kid's Christmas Lists...

2011-12-10T04:19:00.003-06:00

A bit of a re-run from 2009:

Our kids know that this year...again...will be a bit different from the rest because this year is not good in terms of our finances. We're not making it obvious, like my Mom did (hello 4 foot aluminum Christmas tree), but we have asked them to dial it down a bit.
The kids have been talking about lists since before Thanksgiving. Mostly my daughter. She's got some big ticket items on it, not surprising, because her the refurbished computer I bought her last year took a dump...but seriously...an Ipad? Ugh!

Do you ask your kids for 'wish lists'?

If you do, what was the biggest ticket item they asked for?

If you do, what was the most unusual thing they asked for? How old were they?

My kids have always made lists, even before they could write, they used to cut the pictures out of the ads and paste them on paper.

Video game systems have been on their list since they became aware of Nintendo 64, but I'm not springing for a PS3, or an Xbox Kinnect. They've got enough different systems. Used games or gift cards for Gamestop will have to do.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

Review - EdenFantasys...time to get something good for the Holidays

2011-12-06T03:52:00.006-06:00

Most of us have someone special to shop for, and whether we buy them a gift, or buy ourselves something they will enjoy unwrapping (wink), Edenfantasys is the place for sex toys. Edenfantasys now also has Beauty and Body products..

Specials running right now are:
Free Standard Shipping on orders $59+.

25% off luxury gifts for him and her.

Click on "Promotions" at the top of the page to find ALL the deals.
Buy something get something free.

40%-60% off select toys.

It's a long list of savings, be sure to check it out.

Free gift with any order. Click "FREE GIFT GET IT HERE" next to the search box.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Eden Fantasys has a large selection of adult games, adult toys, sex toys, dildos, vibrators, dvds, and lingerie (even plus size lingerie). Finding something unique and fun is easy. Not sure what to buy? On the left side of the home page you can select from Toys for Women, Toys for Men, Toys for Couples, Toys for Gender Play. There is even a gift finder.

Ladies...how about selecting something sexy for your guy or gal. They've got women's lingerie, corsets, women's underwear, men's lingerie, men's underwear, thongs, and costumes.

Eden Fantasys ships promptly and all packages are discreet. I find that my packages arrive on time, sometimes arriving earlier than expected.

Lola's Diner Disclaimer: I may receive a gift certificate in return for this EdenFantasys.com review as part of their Ambassador Program. I was not compensated in any other way for this review. This review is 100% my opinion and has not been edited or reviewed by anyone. Links within this post will direct readers to EdenFantasys' site, which contains adult material.

This post brought to you by EdenFantasys, an online sex toys retailer.

Check out Wayfair.com, Formerly CSN Stores

2011-12-04T18:34:00.000-06:00

CSN Stores is now Wayfair.com and they've got a wide product selection and some of the best prices I've seen on all types of products.

With the holidays approaching, I have been doing some re-decorating in anticipation of having holiday guests. Even my daughter's room is getting a make-over. I was checking out kids duvet covers. The name brand selections are great...Laura Ashley, Steve Madden, Tommy Bahama, etc.

My daughter's room is predominately pink, with some purple. I think this duvet would be perfect with her color scheme.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

Lola's Holiday Meme

2011-12-04T04:10:00.003-06:00

Ok, there's tons of memes out there. In 2009 I decided to create my own holiday meme. Here goes (with a few edits to make it current):
1. What is your favorite holiday show/animated show?
Sentimental - "It's A Wonderful Life", Funny - "Christmas Vacation", Animated show - "Rudolf The Red-Nosed Reindeer".

2. What holiday character do you think you're most like?
Rudolf.

3. What holiday character does your significant other think you're most like?
I'm not really sure.

4. Favorite Christmas/holiday song?
"The Christmas Song" (Chestnuts roasting on an open fire.)

5. Most hated Christmas/holiday song?
"Happy Christmas (War Is Over)" by John Lennon. I can't explain it, it just grates on my nerves. I love just about anything else he did.

6. If you have an all holiday music radio station when do you start listening to it?
I tune in now and then, depending on my mood. I still haven't yet this year.

7. If you have an all holiday music radio station do you love it or hate it?
Depends on my mood.

8. Have you ever wrapped yourself as a Christmas present? Come on...you can tell!
Umm, no.

9. Who is Rudolf The Red Nosed Reindeer's father?
Let's see what you all have to say. I already know the answer.
10. Do you drive your neighborhood or one near you at night to look at other people's holiday decorations?
Guilty. Our kids always ask when we're going to do this. When we lived in Chicago we always drove around Sauganash. They had the best decorations. Santa in a tree house and a working, fully lit carousel.
11. When you see a heavily decorated house do you think, 'oh that's lovely'? Or do you think, 'oh criminy, that looks like Christmas threw up all over their lawn'?
Umm, yeah, totally Grinch here. Christmas threw up all over their lawn. Unless they have some one of a kind, spectacular item in the display (like the Santa in the tree house or a carousel), I think Christmas threw up.

12. Are you counting the days to Christmas with excited anticipation or dread?
Dread. Nuf said.

13. When was the last time you had your photo taken with Santa? Did you sit on his lap?
Our son's first Christmas when Marshall Field's sent their best Santa to our apartment to make up for the bad Santa at their State Street store. Read read all about it here. I had my picture taken on Black Friday. I was goofin' with a friend of mine.
14. Do you make a Christmas list for your spouse or significant other or do you rely on them to pick your gift(s) without a clue from you?
I have yet to discuss this yet with my gf. I am kinda hoping she wants to do the list thing because I don't have a clue.

15. When do you put up your tree?
Normally we do it the weekend after Thanksgiving, but the kids were at their dad's and our son is the one who goes up in the attic and brings everything down. I am painting the living room this year, I have all the supplies. I just need to get 'er done. Then the tree can go up.

16. Real or fake?
Fake. 2008 I spent nearly all day on Black Friday shopping for the perfect pre-lit tree that met Anastasia's specifications. As far as I'm concerned...it will do just fine!

17. When do you take your tree down?
The day after Epiphany. Sometimes New Year's Day.

18. Do you shop the day after Christmas sales? What do you shop for?
If I have the money, I shop for Christmas wrap for the next year, sometimes ornaments. I also may spend any gift cards I've gotten and sometimes shop other items on sale.

19. Is your work/office having a holiday party this year? Will you attend?
My office is having a holiday party, employees only, no spouses/significant others. That's always a drag because it's nice to see everyone's other half. I still dread if there will be a Secret Santa. I positively hate doing Secret Santa with people I hardly know. It's like wtf do you get them without copping out and getting a gift card?

20. Do you have your New Year's Eve Plans set yet?
No plans as yet. It hasn't been discussed.

Feel free to steal (copy) this meme and complete with your own answers.

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

Saturday 9 - Lies

2011-12-03T04:25:00.000-06:00

Welcome to Saturday: 9. What we've committed to our readers is that we will post 9 questions every Saturday. Sometimes the post will have a theme, and at other times the questions will be totally unrelated. Those weeks we do "random questions," so-to-speak. We encourage you to visit other participants posts and leave a comment. Because we don't have any rules, it is your choice. We hate rules. We love memes, however, and here is today's meme!

Saturday 9: Lies

1. “Everybody lies. But it's alright because nobody listens.” is one of Bud's Law's. What do you lie about? Everything. Lol!

2. When you purchase a DVD, what besides the the movie itself, what do you enjoy the most? Is it the director's commentary, the deleted scenes, the bloopers or the behind-the-scenes documentary? I don't think I've ever watched any of the extras on a dvd.

3. What would you most like to accomplish before the year is over? Make a new friend.

4. What is your current percentage of online shopping? Is it going to be more this year than last? That's hard to say right now. It will likely be more online.

5. What's left to do at your place (or where you are going)? Is the tree up? ...or maybe you're just happy you found that fave Christmas coffee mug and are calling that good? I have to tape for painting, put plastic on the windows, paint my living room, then my son can bring the tree down from the attic and we can get all festive!

6. If you could get worry free, cost free plastic surgery, would you? If yes, where? Does liposuction count as plastic surgery? And does surgery to get rid of extra skin from weight loss count as plastic surgery. If so, then yes. Otherwise no.

7. Do you think the child you were growing up, would like the adult you've become? I think that child that I was growing up would be scared to death of the adult I've become. And...damn impressed!

8. What will you miss about 2011? I'd rather not say here.

9. What is something you'd love to see invented? A diet pill with no side effects that works overnight. And it would be FREE for the "real" obese people. And those snarky bitches at the health club who look almost as good as movie stars and athletes would have to pay $500 a bottle and it would take twice as long to work.

Thanks so much for joining us again at Saturday: 9. As always, feel free to come back, see who has participated and comment on their posts. In fact sometimes, if you want to read & comment on everyone's responses, you might want to check back again tomorrow. But it is not a rule. We haven’t any rules here. Join us on next Saturday for another version of Saturday: 9, "Just A Silly Meme on a Saturday!" Enjoy your weekend!

The Queen's Meme #104 ~ The Birthday Meme

2011-11-29T09:56:00.000-06:00

Welcome to The Queens's Meme

7 Royal Questions on Tuesday

Someone in the castle is having a birthday today. Homer says it's not him. Who, oh who, could it be?!
Whether or not it's your birthday, you should be able to answer these age-related questions. Sounds like fun, eh? Or not. I'm going to talk to the birthday girl. She needs a good talking to.

1. If you could turn back the hands of time, where would you go? About a year and a half ago.

2. What was your favorite age and why? 49. Time of my life!

3. Travel into the future 10 years. How do you picture your life? I couldn't even guess. I'm having enough trouble dealing with the here and now.

4. Did you ever take part in a birthday surprise? Tell us about it. Several. One involved a male stripper. That was years and years and years ago.

5. Pretend it is your ultimate birthday party. What five people, living or dead, would you invite? My gf, my ex-bff, chica, Katherine Hepburn, Truman Capote. Lol!

6. Let's have cake! Forget about candles and flavors and balloons.

Who jumps out? I couldn't say. Lol!

7. And finally, make a wish but not just any ole' wish. Make it count. ...I'm not tellin'!

Learn more about The Queen's Meme here.
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Black Friday, Black Saturday, Cyber Monday...and Christmas Lists

2011-11-29T04:55:00.000-06:00

Anyone head out for the Black Friday deals? Technically speaking I guess I did, but I didn't go until after a nice leisurely lunch with a friend. We hit Hobby Lobby for some crafty stuff, and then we hit Walmart late afternoon. No...I didn't make any Christmas purchases, just a necessity item. Surprisingly Walmart wasn't that crazy.

I didn't do any shopping the rest of the weekend except for hitting Home Depot for some paint and supplies.

Cyber Monday? Nope. Thanks to a certain "situation" I am very low on funds. Grrr. I didn't even look at any ads and I got a bajillion emails about the deals. If course all of my co-workers were all over it. Every time I walked past a desk their computers were on a shopping site.

So, what's on your Christmas list this year? I have no idea what to put on my list. My gf asked. I just have no idea. Any ideas?

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

Marriage Equality Ad - Australia

2011-11-28T04:01:00.000-06:00

An interesting take on Marriage Equality from a different perspective...

Sunday Stealing The Questions Galore Meme Part 2

2011-11-26T00:35:00.001-06:00

Today we ripped off a blogger named Jenni from the blog Juniper's Jungle. It's long, so we will do it in parts. She states that she found this meme Budgies blog. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Take the time to comment on other player's posts. It's a great way to make new friends! Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Sunday Stealing: The Questions Galore Meme, Part 2

Cheers to all of us thieves!

21. What was the last song you listened to that wasn’t sung in English? Something from Julio Eglesias.

22. One of our SS players generally leaves a critical comment on our memes. Which is fine. All's fair. Do you let meme authors know when you hate their memes? I leave snide answers for the stupid questions.

23. What TV show would you like to be on? I would like to be on Rosie, hawking my memoir.

24. What was the last video game you played? Does Word Mole count on my BB? If it doesn't, then does Solitaire count on my computer.

25. Have you ever been in a musical? If yes, do tell. ...only in my dreams.

26. Do you follow your own style or everyone else’s? I think it's fair to say I follow my own style.

27. What’s the last store you bought from? Walmart.

28. In retrospect, have you ever let a person use you a lot? Unfortunately, yes.

29. What are you doing two days from now? I better be sleeping, that's a work night.

30. Did you ever believe there were monsters in your closet? No, not monsters. I thought that my Barbie and Ken dolls came to life and they were in my bathroom.

31. When you graduated high school, did you let random people sign your yearbook or just close friends? Anybody who said yes, or asked I let them sign it. I didn't have really any friends in high school.

32. Would you consider adopting a child that had a mental illness? I don't know if I could handle that...considering.

33. Does thinking about death scare you? ...not "thinking" about it.

34. If you died, do you believe that you go to Heaven or Hell and where would your spirit go? I always joke with my friends that we're all (we're all lesbians) going to Pink Hell.

35. Who did you last write a snail mail letter to and why? I haven't yet. I've been thinking about reaching out to a friend I lost contact with several years ago.

36. Do you care what people say or think about you? Don't we all like to say that we don't care? Come on!

37. Have you ever been threatened? Yup.

38. Which side of your family do you get most of your qualties from? My Mom's side. More specifically, from my Mom.

39. What was the last thing with alcohol that you drank? ...I can't remember.

40. Have you ever kept a relationship a secret? Why would someone do that?

Thank you for playing this week on Sunday Stealing! Please leave a comment or link when you have posted. Stop back and visit other player’s posts. That is really what this is all about, making new friends! Have a great week. See you next Sunday!

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011

Happy Thanksgiving! Thank you Bette Midler!

2011-11-24T15:11:00.005-06:00

Why am I thanking Bette Midler? Cuz she ROCKS! Somehow she got Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade to include a performance of her Broadway show Priscilla Queen of the Desert. Gays and Drag Queens performing...who could ask for more? I could barely believe my eyes. I texted my gf, but I was so astounded, that I couldn't move until the performance was almost over. She missed it. But I'll show her this when she comes over later:

We've come a long way baby!
Thank you Ms. Bette!

And now...a Thanksgiving Meme, courtesy of The Weekly Adventures Of An Ordinary Girl.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

1. What are the traditional favorites? For our family it's turkey cooked in the Nesco Roaster with Sweet Potatoes. Stuffing made in the oven (ok, ok, I know it's supposed to be called dressing if it's not in the bird, but we've always called it stuffing. And besides, we all love it crispy on top). And we make regular ol' stuffing like my Mom made, none of this weird stuff. Celery, onions, seasoning, and the liver, gizard and heart chopped up very fine. And chicken broth, no stick of butter (sorry Mom, trying to be healthy, and it's still awesome!) Green bean casserole, roasted brussels sprouts, mashed potatoes, whole berry cranberry sauce, pumpkin pie (plenty of Cool Whip) and lattice top blueberry pie. (Pies were frozen and pre-baked courtesy of a friend who couldn't use them. Woo hoo! No baking this year! Thank you! Thank you!)

2. What new recipes will you try this year? Nope, going with the tried and true. Besides, this was all last minute...I thought I was flying solo, but the kids are home sick with colds.

3. What part of the meal do you never compromise? Probably the turkey. It's got to be big enough for leftovers.

4. Who gets to carve the turkey? I carve the turkey.

5. Family style around the table or buffet style and everyone sits wherever there’s room? Buffet style.

6. How many will be at your table this year? Just the 3 of us.

7. Three best pies for Thanksgiving dessert? Always have to have pumpkin. I love pecan pie, but no one else does, so I never have it. (Now wait a minute...that means it's all mine then, right?) And apple pie. But no apple pie this year. I will probably make it for Christmas.

8. Cranberry sauce… yay or nay? Whole berry cranberry sauce. I tried making from scratch one year and it was just too much hassle.

9. What time do you eat Thanksgiving Dinner? Usually around 3pm, but the bird isn't ready yet..

10. Favorite leftover?
White meat for sandwiches with butter and a sprinkle of garlic salt (just like Mom made). Legs and wings are for snackin' if I can hide them from my son. Lol!

Sunday Stealing The Questions Galore Meme Part 1

2011-11-20T00:19:00.003-06:00

No new Sunday Stealing. It's blogger's choice, so I chose this 2 part one.

Welcome back to Sunday Stealing which originated on WTIT: The Blog authored by Bud Weiser. Here we will steal all types of memes from every corner of the blogosphere. Our promise to you is that we will work hard to find the most interesting and intelligent memes. You may have heard of the expression, “honor amongst thieves”. In that age-old tradition, we also have our rules. First, we always credit the blog that we stole it from and we will “fess up” to the blog owner where we stole the meme. We also provide a link to the victim's post. (It's our way of saying "Thanks!") We do sometimes edit the original meme, usually to make it more relevant to our global players, to challenge our players, sometimes to select that meme's best questions, or simply to make it less repetitive from either this new meme or recently asked questions from a prior featured meme. Let's go!!!

Today we ripped off a blogger named Jenni from the blog Juniper's Jungle. It's long, so we will do it in parts. She states that she found this meme Budgies blog. But, it was probably stolen there as well. So, of course, that will be as far as we go. Tracing back our theft's thieves might take some time. Take the time to comment on other player's posts. It's a great way to make new friends! Link back to us at Sunday Stealing!

Sunday Stealing: The Questions Galore Meme, Part 1

Cheers to all of us thieves!

1. Is there someone in your life you know you’d be better off without? Most definitely!

2. Do you get criticized because of your body? Who would criticize this? Yo! I'm Sexy And I Know It!

3. Did you kiss the last person you called? Yup!

4. When was the last time you danced? I dance in my car EVERY day!

5. Do you keep in mind other people’s feelings? Yes, always.

6. If you have a hang nail, do you pull it or clip it? Neither.

7. Who do you want to forget? Oh no! That's to easy!

8. Who was the last person to send you a letter? I have no idea.

9. Who did you last tell to shut up? It's not "shut up". It's "Cone of Silence". And I say it just about every time I'm in the car with my kids.

10. What’s the last thing that you smelt that smelt bad? Smelt.

11. What’s your favorite cereal? Since it's just past Halloween...Boo Berry. Seriously! Boo and berry...what's not to like?

12. How do you feel when people lead you on, but they don’t even like you? If I can think of a snipe over their heads, I'll say it, but of course I usually think of those after. Headhunters are the worst.

13. Could you live without sunlight? I think I'd be pretty grumpy.

14. What’s something you know is bad, but you want to do it anyway? Yes.

15. What was the last thing you lied about? Something Christmas related. Tis the season!

16. Do you regret anything you’ve done in the past week? No. I think I did an AWESOME job of handling things.

17. What was the last movie you bought? Can't remember. It was something from Wolfe video.

18. What is a sport you would like to do? Golf.

19. When was the last time you felt like crying? ...what time is it???

20. Have you ever wanted to kill someone (not that you actually do it)? LMAO!

Thank you for playing this week on Sunday Stealing! Please leave a comment or link when you have posted. Stop back and visit other player’s posts. That is really what this is all about, making new friends! Have a great week. See you next Sunday!

Lola's Diner ©2008-2011