Random Dozen

1. Tell me something about your favorite teacher.

I had a couple of elementary teachers who I really loved but probably my favorite teacher, and the one who had the most impact on me, was my journalism teacher, Terry Nelson. She was dedicated to her students and to journalism and freedom of the press. She treated her students like people with their own thoughts, opinions and feelings rather than children who should be seen but not heard. As a student working on one of the publications she oversaw you knew she had your back. She was both a strong encourager and genuine critic. I am glad that I have been able to keep in touch with her over the years and truly consider her a friend.

2. Tell me about one pivotal moment in your life.

Cliff Notes - Lightning struck - decided life was to short to be so very unhappy - got counseling - got divorced - reconnected with God - got happy. That was over the course of several years but it did start with that lightning striking me moment.

3. About favorite colors--a lot of people will ask you what it is, but I want to know why it is. What feeling or memory does it evoke?

Blue - I think I find peace in blue. I remember many trips to the ocean as a child and the fun and relaxing on vacation. Blue skies remind me that there is a bigger world out there and a heaven beyond it helping me keep things in perspective. Blue jeans - comfort clothes!

4. What's a sure sign that you're getting older?

This could be its own Dozen! Grey hairs, my body knowing when the weather is going to change - and I've noticed lately that my kids all really are adults!

5. Please don't sermonize, but Halloween--is it a yes or no for you?

I'm going with a definite sort of. It is probably my least favorite holiday but I enjoy seeing the little kids in cute costumes and pumpkin carving can be fun and creative.

6. What's your favorite musical?

The Sound of Music

7. Are you more of a city mouse or country mouse?

Country mouse as long as I can visit the "big city" on a regular basis.

8. Did you know that it is possible, for a small fee, to name a real star after someone? (It's true! Google it!) If someone were to name a star for you, would you appreciate it for its whimsy and romance, or would you say, "Are you kidding me? For $19.95 we could have gone to the movie and actually bought popcorn."

It sounds romantic but to be honest, unless the $19.95 is going to some charity, I'd probably prefer something more practical. Thirty years ago it would probably have been irresistibly romantic - so this could be a reference back to question#4.

This question comes from Paula at His Ways Are Not Our Ways. 9. What's the craziest thing you've ever been doing and texted during it? I only thought of this b/c I was about to try to text during my walking video but I didn't.

I admit to trying, when I first got my phone, to text a couple of times while driving. I realized immediately that this was a bad idea - long before it started making the evening news.

10. "It's not a party unless _______."

Over the years there have been so many very different answers to this question! (again, refer to question # 4) Currently I'll go with unless there's good food!

11. When you're stuck in traffic or a waiting room, what do you do to pass the time? PS: There are no magazines available.

Play Tetris on my phone.

12. If you weren't yourself, would you be friends with you?

Probably. I'm basing this on the fact that lots of people say that my daughter is a lot like me and I really like her and would be friends with her even if she weren't my daughter.