Hot off the press... the Hodgepodge.

Happy Tuesday everyone.  As we watch the recovery efforts in Moore, Oklahoma, let's take a moment to pray for them, and to thank God for all the love shown.  Again, we see that tragedy brings people together and makes them, and us, realize that we are all alike and share in the pain and joy that life brings.

On to the Hodgepodge....

1.  It's National Bike Week...do you own a bicycle?  When did you last ride a bike?

Yes, we have several bicycles in our garage.  My husband is more the bike rider than me. He loves to go out on long treks and we live in a perfect place for him.  We have flat land with some nice bicycle trails and neighborhoods to ride through.   Hubby even rides his bike on the hard sand on the beach sometimes.  

It's also "Bike Week" here - as in motorcycles.  The Grand Strand has two each May, and one in October.  Last week was the Harley Davidson rally and bikers came from all up and down the east coast for the shared interest, with lots of special activities, bike rides, etc.   This coming week is the  "rice burner" bike week...  also called "Black Bike Week"...   mostly African Americans converging for the same good times.    Thankfully, last week we had good weather and no fatalities, and I pray  we have the same conditions for the riders coming here soon.  

2.  What's something you learned in school that wasn't part of the curriculum? 

This question makes me think about the book "Everything I know I learned in Kindergarten". Like the book, in school I learned how to relate with peers and with people of authority.  I learned when to speak and when it's best to stay quiet. I learned to follow dreams, and to give a try to all kinds of activities.  I learned that sometimes failure is a really good lesson!  I learned that everyone has something special and unique about them.  

3.  What's a food you've never tried, but want to try?  What's a food you've tried and will never try again? 

I'll answer the second question first.  I have tried liver and do not care to ever eat it again.   A food I have never tried but want to?   That's a toughie.  I'm not really adventurous with my cuisine, and prefer simple foods.  At this point in my life if I have not tried something it's because I do NOT want to!

4.  Have you been more demanding on yourself lately or less?  Why? Do you think that's a good trend? 

I think I am less demanding on myself.  Again, is it an age thing?  Perhaps.  Because, as I have gotten older I have been able to put everything into better perspective. I think I understand what is important in life and what is not.  I have raised my daughters, I have a happy marriage.  I am content with my life.  I like the trend!  ( :

5.  Who is your favorite book, movie, or TV show villain? 

Interesting question because in general we don't like villains!  Right?    If I had to pick a movie villain then it would be Cruella DeVille from "101 Dalmations".  Maybe because she was so easy to hate.  Also, Ursala from "The Little Mermaid".  

6. How concerned are you about identity theft? 

My hubby will say I am not concerned enough.  I kind of live my life as an open book.  I don't "worry" about people stealing my information.   Obviously, I do not hand out my SS number or credit card numbers easily.  I am old-fashioned when it comes to banking and still hand-write deposit slips and go to the bank.  I'm not big on on-line banking.    We have a shredder and I use it.  So, I am "smart" about my personal numbers, but I am not nervous about them being stolen.

7.  Would you rather have an ordinary home in an extraordinary place or an extraordinary home in an ordinary place? 

Easy answer. I live in an extraordinary place!  I love the beauty around me. I love the birds singing, the flowers, the marshes, the beaches.  It's lovely!!  If I can spend time outdoors, then I am happy.  I am fortunate to also have a lovely house, BUT I don't worry myself with the status of it, or keeping up with the Joneses, or having the newest fangled item in it.  That's not where I get my happiness.

8.  My random thought. 

Again, the realities of life - the tornado yesterday, and some health issues of family members - keep  me focused on enjoying each day!  Because...you just never know!    So, each day I try and get out there and walk, and listen, and take in the beauty!    I hope you do too!