Wordless Wednesday: Wheeee!

 

C/O Online Puzzle Game

Monday Music: Kenny Rogers - The Gambler

Sunday Komeeks 🫠

Stephan Pastis is a royal crack up…..

Saturday 9 for Memorial Day......

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

Memorial Day is the federal holiday designated to honor American service people who died in battle.

1) Here at Saturday 9, we regard everyone who served -- veterans and active military -- as heroes. Have you, or has anyone in your family, worn the uniform of our armed forces? We want to hear about them.

Lots of my cousins, most of my uncles (both maternal and fraternal) , and my father and brother have all served.  

My maternal grandfather was a merchant marine during the first world war.  Merchant marines suffered very heavy losses, more per capita, than any other service. They were what helped to keep Europe from being crushed by supplying food and munitions to them during that war. I didn't get to talk to my Grandpa about it but my mother told me some stuff.  

I, myself, haven't had the honor.  I did choose a service - Air Force - and I took all their tests.  They really , really wanted me to join, but wouldn't yet allow women to fly jets. So, I went on to "greater glory" as a "Domestic Engineer". 😉

2) Memorial Day has its own flag etiquette. In the morning, the American flag should be flown at half staff in memory of those we have lost. Then, at noon, it should be raised briskly to full staff, in honor of all who have served. Where is the nearest flag flying from where you sit right now?  

That would be at the Post office which is a few blocks away.  I don't think anyone puts out a flag anymore around here.  The next door neighbor's widow may still fly one.  I have a 5.5 by 9.5 but don't fly it.  

3) Since 1988, motorcycle riders have participated in Rolling Thunder. In events all over the country, including Washington DC, bikers "Roll Together" to draw attention to service members still missing and raise awareness of mental health issues our veterans cope with each day. When have you most recently ridden a motorcycle? A scooter? A bicycle?  

That would be my ten speed bike, 20 or so years ago, unless you count the more recent stationary bike at the gym.  Even that was several years ago now.  Boy do I miss bike riding!  It was loads of fun. My uncle had a Harley. He gave me rides now and then.

4) This week's song is the title track of Billy Ray Cyrus' best-selling album. Named for this patriotic song, the album also included Billy Ray's signature song, "Achy Breaky Heart." "Achy Breaky Heart" is a popular choice on karaoke nights. Do you know it well enough to sing along?  

Yes.  And, I've always loved it... and the energy in it.  

5) Sandy Kane, the hero of "Some Gave All," is based on a real Vietnam vet Billy Ray Cyrus met and spoke to about his sacrifice for his country. Can you think of another song based on a real person?  

Yes, Eric Clapton's "Layla" though, believe me, I can hardly wait for the keyboard to cut in now.  I have very OLD ears!  I love that song!

6) Memorial Day is the traditional kick off of the summer season. Have you packed away your winter clothes yet?  

We don't have seasonal clothes especially since, as my Turkish friend put it one year, "You live in Winterless California and have no idea what Winter is really like."  We do wear down jackets when the temperature goes below 65, and, when the kids were small, we did buy ski stuff.  But the kids, they are like snowmen.  They think anything over 65 is sweltering.  They've all become acclimatized to Northern California.  That is a whole "other country", Northern (Central Coast) Cal. 

7) As you answer these questions, is there a fan or an air conditioner cooling your room? 

No, just the fan inside the PC Tower because it is a very cool May.  It's rained a bit, and "clizzled" for three days.  

8) Memorial Day is also a holiday for retailers. Ads promise great prices on everything from grills to lawn decorations to high tech gear and gadgets. Will you be shopping any sales this weekend? 

Most likely not... and Hubby just concurred.

Random question: When is the last time you felt like a kid? 

Just a few days ago.  I learned that it's not uncommon for old people to be kids inside even if they are unable to leap up and and click their heels together anymore.  That means that we get to go ahead and have that second childhood.  

Thank you Sam!  

Dear Readers.  If you would like to see other 9er's entries, and/or join in the fun, Go HERE to the Home Page of Saturday 9 and scroll down to the linkie. 

Dastardly

The link goes to the Washington Post article about West Bank.

 HERE is what happens, and has happened for over 20 years, and I don’t think it’s right at all. 

In fact, it’s a crying shame. 

 It’s a shame when people turn into their own worst enemy. But that is what I feel has happened.  This is why the Israeli government has still not answered for the gunning down of an American newspaper reporter and her colleagues.  I think, “ How would I feel if that happened to my daughters, two of whom went to West Bank and Israel in the early 90’s? 

 It’s Murder…Murder!  Stop all of it!  SHAME ON YOU!  Do 🛑 stop before you lose all the good will that people like me have for you! 

Three on Thursday: Negative Nattering of a once sassy lil Old Ladeee...

First,  I am emotionally tired.  The world is on the brink of world war, just as it was on the day I was born 80 years ago.  All that activism, or volunteering time to work the polls to get out the vote, and time spent in trying to be informed while being tied in knots over this policy or that one.... has finally amounted to a "something" that seems to be approaching a "nothing". 

Second:  Getting rid of things is supposed to be cathartic.  However, I am just finding it depressing, especially when finding doll patterns and toys that I thought I'd be making for sale, or for any little kids who were in need of a hug. 

Third:  I'm going to take a big vacation from political angst.  I know now just how much I can take from the big mouths and the unpunished despicable and treasonous ones who are still standing center stage, dishing.

Wordless Wednesday…shhhh

 

I think of the Earth differently.

 It is a prison ….for souls. , and your soul doesn’t get off of it unless you are very, very good.  It’s a very beautiful prison, but it is a prison nonetheless. 

Have a good day. 🙏🏼

This is strange...

 

I guess it really pays to clean out the closets once in awhile!  I've been looking at clothes like these in social media, and I already have the patterns for them.  I've probably got the cloth, too. 😏

Saturday Nine: Justin Timberlake: “Mirrors”

 Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) Is there a mirror in the room you're in now?  Nope, there’s no mirror in here. 

 

2) In this song, Justin Timberlake tells his lover he just can't wait till they're together. What are you eagerly looking forward to today?  I’m looking forward to getting more detritus out of my sewing and craft areas today and into young and loving hands..

 

3) Justin Timberlake is known as a sharp dresser who is always on trend. What item have you recently added to your wardrobe?  Nothing and it’s going to be that way for awhile. I need to sew myself some dresses. 

4) Justin was an accomplished child performer who appeared on the entertainment competition show Star Search when he was just 11. When Crazy Sam was 11, her only job was loading and unloading the dishwasher, for which she received an allowance from her dad. Did you have chores when you were a kid?  I had a ton of chores.  I lived on a farm so those chores  were done  everyday; there is always something needing to be done on a farm.  Plus, I also helped Mother thoroughly clean our little house every weekend.  

 

5) He says he tries never to miss breakfast, even on the road, and his favorite is peanut butter banana pancakes. Given the choice, do you prefer pancakes, french toast, or waffles? I’m really not a fan of pancakes unless they are very special  fluffy ones made with corn meal and served with sour cream and apple sauce.  I like waffles a lot,  but I’m crazy in love with French toast.  We never seem to have it anymore.  Darn!  

6) When they were still in their teens, Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears were sweethearts. Obviously it's been easy for him to keep up with her successes and problems over the years. Do you wonder what one of your exes is up to?  Nope.  However, I always wonder about a boy I knew in high school and briefly met again in college.  He was really nice. He ended up playing for an NFL team back east but retired in southern California. I really liked him a lot but our circles didn’t overlap. I’ve always been a little crazy about redheads. 

 

7) In 2013, when this song was popular, Pope Benedict resigned. Thinking of your working life, have you felt greater stress on your first day at a job, or your last?  First day on the telephone switch board was stressful.  But it was a fun job I wish I could have kept. 

8) Also in 2013, the NHL owners reached an agreement with the players union and avoided a strike. Have you ever belonged to a union? No, but I sure as heck believe in them.  They gave workers a voice, and helped build the middle class. I’ve marched in picket lines and would do it all again. 

9) Random question: When was one of the first times when you felt like an adult?  When I was 19, got a job that paid the rent, and was living in my sweet little studio apartment.  I finally felt my life was finally my own. 

Thank you Sam! ❤️🙏🏼❤️

READERS, go to the link at Sam’s page and scroll down to the Linkie HERE 

Three on Thursday: Mish Mash

1.  Sweet and funny adoption Story from SLATE mag about two new clueless parents.  Very well written by the Mama.... 

2.  A Naked Lady Lily from my long lost rose garden 

3. A bromeliad from my long lost Shade Garden.  With a tiny Lady Bug. 

Wordless Wednesday... shhhhh

 

Music Monday: Glenn Miller : Chattanooga Choo-Choo

 

Saturday Nine. Mama Said (1961)

 Saturday 9: Mama Said (1961)  

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) This week's song is about a girl who remembers wise advice she received from her mother. Tell us about someone who advised you years ago and to this day you think, "They were right!"

My mother told me, "Life is sad, my Dear."  She was right.  That's why I tried to make my own kids' life a lot different than my childhood was.  

2) She sings about hearing chapel bells. Can you hear church bells ringing from your home? 

No, not anymore.  When I was a kid, I could.  There was a catholic church on the orphanage property and a little Christian Church where I went every Sunday until my Dad read them the riot act for Baptizing me.  

3) This week's featured artists are the Shirelles, a group formed in New Jersey in 1957. They are credited for beginning the girl group genre. Name another popular girl group.  

The Andrew's Sisters. I can still sing a lot of their songs. 

4) In 1961, when this song was popular, Jacqueline Kennedy appeared on the cover of Ladies Home Journal three times. Is there a printed magazine in your home right now? If so, who is on the cover?

It's a bird.  An American Eagle.  I don't know his name but let's just call him Freddie.  ;) 

5) This song was chosen in celebration of Mother's Day. More phone calls are made on Mother's Day than any other day of the year. Who was your last phone call from?  

My eye doctor. lol  

6) Salons see a bump in appointments around Mother's Day every year. Partly because moms want to look good for their day, but also because hair, spa and nail services are a popular Mother's Day gift. When did you most recently go to a salon, and was it for your hair, complexion, or nails?

Ummmm.....  It was SO long ago that I do not remember.  But, it would have been for my hair. 

7) Similarly, restaurants experience a spike in reservations on Mother's Day. Where did you last dine out? Was a reservation required?

No reservation was required, and it was for breakfast at a local restaurant.   

8) The most popular Mother's Day gift is still the greeting card. Where do you card shop: drugstore, bookstore, card shop, etc.?

Most of the card shops have closed.  But I used to love to go to them.  Now it would be a drug store for a card.

9) Sam is celebrating Mother's Day with her mother's favorite, Hershey Bars. Would you prefer classic milk chocolate, dark chocolate or chocolate with almonds?

Dark chocolate about the 70% kind... This stuff...  

Delicious!

Scharffen Berger.... YUMMY!  I used to really love See's Candy.  But, over time, things change. 

Happy Mothering Day!  

If you are a woman, you are probably Mothering some little being!  So, Pamper yourself.  

And here's one from Sam. too

Thank you Sam!  Saturday Nine always makes my day, and life, lots better.  

I am so glad not to be on Twitter...

 "It’s an important engagement for Biden, who was sent to London on behalf of her husband, President Joe Biden. No U.S. president has ever attended a coronation, however an official American representative is usually sent in a gesture of goodwill between the two allies. For the coronation of Queen Elizabeth in 1953, it was special ambassador George Marshall."

People can be such idiots.  It's a Ralph Loren dress, and no US president has ever attended a Coronation.  It's just not done, Poor Stupid Little Know- nothings.. 

The article is  HERE

Saturday 9: Come On-A My House (1951)

Come On a My House...                                                    

Unfamiliar with this week's tune? Hear it here.

1) In this week's song, Rosemary Clooney offers us candy, peaches, pears, grapes, cake, etc. What tasty treat are you craving this morning?

2) The song was co-written by a pair of cousins more famous for their other jobs. William Saroyan was a Pulitzer Prize winning author and Ross Bagdasarian created Alvin and the Chipmunks. Tell us about one of your cousins.  

Ok.  Jesse was the oldest of all the many, many cousins from my paternal unit's side.. Jesse was the eldest of ALL of my cousins maternal as well.  He was a year and a half older than I, and he had the most beautiful green eyes and good manners.  His daddy was an Italian who was married to my  paternal Auntie.  He and I got on like a house afire.  It made me sad that he died so young, only 56.  He was a sweet and lively person, and one whom I admired.

3) The song was inspired by the cousins' recollection of their Armenian relatives encouraging friends and family to visit by promising lots of food. Who most recently invited you to their home? What was the occasion?  We went to my niece's house for Christmas a few years ago, and before the pandemic hit.  Since then there has been a lot of things happening besides the pandemic, so we haven't been going anywhere at all. 

4) This was a big hit for Rosemary Clooney. She got her start singing live on Cincinnati's WLW radio station. Today WLW is an all-news station. When you were a kid, what radio station did you tune into for the hits and new music?  Not just when I was a kid.  And that was Kasey Kasome's Top Ten.  I listened to him clear into the 1980's after which I pretty much quit listening to radio altogether.  I'm still very fond of Kasie though....RIP, sweet man.

5) Rosemary was also an actress, appearing in motion pictures and made-for-TV movies. The most famous is 1954's White Christmas. Have you seen it?  Yes, and we own a copy.  We watch it very Christmas season.  I always watch my Christmas Movies.  Even if we don't put up a tree, I watch them. lol

5) Yes, Rosemary Clooney is related George Clooney. She was his aunt. She appeared with him on ER and received an Emmy Award nomination. Do you enjoy doctor shows?  Yes, especially the real life ones.  We've found two that are about real doctors and nurses and enjoy those.  Well, except when someone dies.  But, I've had enough deaths and trauma to be case hardened except for a bit of crying and sniffling when something happens, but time marches on, doesn't it?  

Both the hospital shows we watch are about New York City hospitals. "Lennox Hill" and "Emergency NYC".  Though ER is a drama, I might give it a spin.  We have also watched "House" and liked it... sort of.  With Grouchy doctors, as caustic as House, I'm not sure I want to know they even exist! 👀

7) In 1951, when this song was #1, Yankees superstar Joe DiMaggio retired from baseball. He remained in the public eye, endorsing products and acting as Major League Baseball's ambassador around the world. His second marriage, a few years after his retirement, was almost as legendary as his baseball career. Without looking it up, do you know who his bride was?  If he isn't the one who married and buried Marylin, then no, I don't know.  I don't like the way he treated that lovely human being.  Flowers after you're long dead mean nothing to you....   You've already been swooped up into the ether and are on your way home. 

8) Also in 1951, I Love Lucy premiered and has never been off the air since. That's right: for 72 years, without interruption, viewers have been entertained by the Ricardos and Mertzes. When you think of I Love Lucy, what's the first thing that comes to mind?  Lucy trying to keep up with that production line, 💗

9) Random question -- You're playing roulette and suddenly doubled your winnings. Do you walk away when you're ahead, or do you stay at the table to play your winning streak?  Having never gambled, I would walk away, figuring lightning does NOT strike twice. 

Thank you, Sam, for Saturday 9 every week.  It's "Bonzar!"  Bonzar, if you didn't know means  THIS and it's all good.  

Dear Readers:  This is always a fun MEME for a Saturday.  To play along, got HERE.  I promise you will love to read the other Saturday Niner's Posts and maybe feel like joining in.  

Ciao Bella!  

Three on Thursday: three very exciting things to think about.

1.  This is the New Sock yarn, though two of the skeins (dark ones) are now for long overdue tams for myself.  

2.  My right eye is done -> one down and one to go.  Wonderful surgeon! Wonderful staff!  Thanks be to God! Ooo Ooo Ooo.. to anyone who needs this surgery, don’t fear it. 

 I feel like a little ten year old back in my mother’s beautiful gardens.  All the colors are vibrant and absolutely gorgeous.  And all this with only one eye ( the worst one) done.  Now for the other one in a few weeks.  White is white again and not ecru! 

 I’d be dancing in the kitchen, but I don’t want to break something else.  Last time it was my elbow and shoulder.  *cues chorus of, “ Stayin’ Alive, Stayin’ Alive…Ooo Ooo Ooo…

3. The "Wedge" at Newport.  You do not want to be an amateur surfer or boogie boarder and tackle this MOTHA... It is way, WAY, worse than the old break at Dana.  Way WAY!  It's also Gorgeous!

Not sure who to credit but if you know, please leave a comment..  Gorgeous shot though, Eh?

Here's the reality.... live action.... 

I would have loved to try to ride it on a boogie board back in the day, like the 1950’s, before twenty thousand people were on it.  Death by getting hit by a surf board isn’t my idea of a good day. 

Wordless Wednesday: shhhhh...

 

Home again… Yay!

I get to keep my eye.. lol.. Terrific Surgeon and Staff.  Love every one of them.  See you in a few…

Monday Music: Justin Johnsom: "Under Your Spell” DARK BLUES on Vintage Dobro Resonator

This songwriter player has a fabulous discography.  And this is such a beautiful bluesy Song.

More..  Lord above, I think he is a treasure.  

I'm headed for surgery this morning, and  I wanted to leave you with something gorgeous. 

Back in a few... Love you all!