Saturday 9: Come See About Me

Saturday 9: Come See About Me (1964)

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

1) In this song, Diana Ross sings that she's given up her friends for her boyfriend. Have you ever had a lover your friends disapproved of? Has a friend ever dated someone you didn't care for?

A. I don't know that I've ever had a boyfriend my friends disapproved of. I have seen people I cared about date people that I didn't think were good for them.

 

2) Without her man at her side she feels uncertain. Let's be more positive: what's something you're sure of? 

A. The sun will come out tomorrow, bet your bottom dollar that tomorrow, there'll be sun!

3) When this song was popular, the Supremes were known for their elegant hair and wardrobe. When was the last time you got dressed up?

A. Tuesday. My husband took me to lunch, and we went to the movies.

 

4) The Supremes went on to have a dozen #1 hits. This must have been hard for Betty McGlown, the fourth Supreme, who left the group before they recorded their first song. Can you think of an opportunity you missed?

A. I can think of plenty of opportunities I missed if I'd been willing to give over my sense of self to walk around with my head up someone else's butt, but I am not that person.

5) After she left the Supremes, lead singer Diana Ross went on to have a successful solo career. But it hasn't always been easy. She stumbled in her high heels and broke her ankle as she left the stage after a November 2012 concert. Have you taken a tumble recently?

A. I have not fallen in a while. ::knock wood::

6) Ever the trooper, she honored her commitment to perform at a White House-sponsored Christmas concert just weeks later, even though her leg was still in a cast. Tell us about a time when you "played hurt."

A. I had my right arm in a cast for six weeks in the 7th grade. I am right-handed, of course. My teachers let me take my tests verbally with them.

7) In 1964, when this song was popular, Amazon founder Jeff Bezos was born. What was in your most recent Amazon shipment?

A. Shoes for my husband.

8) Also in 1964, women still routinely wore white gloves to complete a outfit. Short gloves that ended at the wrist were popular for everyday wear. What fashion trend do you wish would come back?

A. Well, not that one. I actually liked shoulder pads; I thought I looked better with them than without them.

 

9) Random question: If you were in the witness protection program, what new name and occupation would you choose for yourself?

A. My new name would be Sabrina Wetherwood and I would work in publishing as a book editor.

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however. 

 

Saturday 9: A Little in Love

Saturday 9: A Little in Love (1980)

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

 

1) Do you believe you can be a little in love? Or is romance an all-or-nothing proposition for you?

A. I think you can be a little in love. Maybe that's more like "in like" instead of "in love," but that's semantics.

 

2) Cliff Richard sings that he knows it's been a long time since you had fun. Is that true? When have you recently had a really good time? What were you doing?

A. I have fun every day. I laugh with my husband and my friends on the phone.

 

3) Cliff was born in India when it was still part of the UK. When he was 8, his family relocated to Tilbury, an English port town. Have you ever lived near the sea?

A. I have never lived near the sea.

 

4) In 1958, Cliff became a star in England. He was so influential that young John Lennon said he dreamed someday the Beatles would be as big as Cliff Richard. Yet for some reason, he was never as popular here in the US. Before today, had you ever heard of Cliff Richard?

A. Yes, I have heard of Cliff Richard. But I'm not sure why.

 

5) 1980 was Cliff's most successful year stateside. Both "A Little in Love" and his duet with Olivia Newton-John, "Suddenly," made the Top 10. Do you have a favorite Olivia Newton-John song?

A. Oh, Suddenly. That's why I know Cliff Richards. I am partial to Hopelessly Devoted to You from Grease.

 

6) Cliff was once "a little in love" himself. He had a high-profile romance with British pro tennis player Sue Barker. They contemplated marriage, but in his memoir, Cliff admitted he wasn't ready to commit the rest of his life to her. Cliff never married but Sue went on to wed landscape gardener Lance Tankard. Have you ever employed a gardener? Or do you handle all the yard work yourself?

A. I have never employed a gardener. My husband does most of the yard work these days. 

 

7) In 1980, when we were enjoying "A Little in Love" on the radio, Macaulay Culkin was born. He became famous for the Home Alone franchise. Have you seen any Home Alone movies?

A. I saw the first and second one. Was there more than two?

 

8) 1980 also gave us the Post-It Note. Today they are available in a variety of sizes and colors, but the original 4"x4" canary yellow Post-Its are still the best seller. Would we find Post-Its in your home or office right now?

A. Yes. Or some similar off-brand, at any rate.

 

9) Random question – You're having a crummy day. Nothing is going right. You run into a casual friend in the grocery store aisle. As you chat, do you think your mood would be obvious? Or could you successfully put on a happy face?

A. I usually manage the happy face mostly because I'm standing there trying to remember who the person is. I am terrible with names when people are not in their usual spots.

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however. 

 

Saturday 9: Nice to Be Nice

Saturday 9: It's So Nice to Be Nice (to Your Neighbor) – 1947

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

 

1) In this song, Monica Lewis encourages us to greet our neighbors with a smile and a hello. Tell us about one of your neighbors.

A. One of my neighbors is a fantastic woman. She was the AD at my college. She is long retired now, but she raises cattle. She is quite an interesting person, and I love chatting with her. 

 

2) She reminds us that it's "nice to be nice." Who has recently shown you kindness?

A. My husband, my friends, the guy at the store who was patient with me when I couldn't make up my mind.

 

3) Monica Lewis was born in Chicago, where her mother performed with the Chicago Opera Company. Have you ever been to the opera?

A. I have never been to the opera. Although I did go to a performance of Peter and the Wolf when I was in school. Is that an opera? That feels like a hundred years ago. Well, the Internet says it's an opera, so I guess I've been to an opera. Learned something!

 

4) Her family moved to New York City, where she attended college by day and worked at radio station WMCA in the evenings to help support her family. Which do you listen to more: the radio or podcasts?

A. I listen to songs on Alexa from my personal playlist more than radio or podcasts. Actually, I listen to audiobooks more than I listen to anything else at the moment.

5) In the 1940s she appeared all around New York – in nightclubs, on Broadway, and on radio shows. It was then that she got her best-known and longest-running role: the voice of Chiquita Banana. For decades she was heard singing the jingle, "I'm Chiquita Banana and I'm here to say ..." Do you have any bananas in your kitchen now? 

A. No, we have no bananas. We have no bananas today.

 

6) Around 1950 she moved to Hollywood. She had recently divorced and wanted a fresh start. There she dated an actor who was also newly divorced: Ronald Reagan. Obviously, she never had to ask, "Whatever became of him?" Who is the last former romance, classmate or coworker that you looked up on the internet?

A. Hmm. I don't recall doing that for a long time. A very long time ago I remember looking up the guy I dated in high school, but I couldn't find him.

 

7) In 1947, when this song was popular, actor Ted Danson was born. He's best known as Sam Malone, the bartender at Cheers, "where everybody knows your name." Is there a bar or restaurant where you are recognized on sight?

A. Not anymore. We used to be regulars at Shakers in Roanoke, but after the pandemic, we stopped going out and now we're not regulars much of anywhere, except maybe Bellacinos, the local sub shop. They know my name. And the lady who dishes out the Chinese food at a local spot knows as soon as I come in that I want an order of chicken and broccoli and 3 eggrolls.

 

8) The 1947 Studebaker Champion was one of the first cars to have an adjustable driver's seat designed to accommodate motorists of various heights. When you're driving someone else's car, do you usually adjust the seat?

A. I am short, I have to adjust the seat, or I wouldn't be able to reach the pedals or see out of the mirrors.

 

9) Random question: When someone takes advantage of you, are you angrier at them for doing it, or at yourself for letting it happen?

A. It's over and done with, there isn't any point in being upset about it. People are going to people. Sometimes they're a-holes. The world is full of them and they're hard to avoid.

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however. 

Saturday 9: Manic Monday

Saturday 9: Manic Monday (1985) 

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

1) In this song, Bangles lead singer Susannah Hoffs sings that "it's 6:00 already." What time did you wake up this morning?

A. I usually get up somewhere between 6 a.m. and 6:45 a.m.

2) She's running late for work, and she wishes her bed was already made so she wouldn't have to spend time doing it. Do you ever leave the house without making your bed?

A. Not unless it is an emergency. I remember I was in the middle of changing the bed linens when my husband came in the house in 2014 after having caught his arm in the hay baler. Obviously, I did not finish that chore, since I had to take him to the emergency room.

 

3) She sings that it would take an airplane to get her to work on time. Are you usually early, on time, or late?

A. I am generally a little early.

4) Since Monday is the start of her hectic workweek, she wishes it was Sunday because that's her "fun day." What's your favorite day of the week?

A. I don't really have one.

5) "Manic Monday" was written by Prince. What's your favorite Prince song?

A. Raspberry Beret.

6) In 1985, when this song was a hit, Sears promoted sleepwear with characters on them in their children's department. GI Joe pajamas were popular. When you were a kid, did you have a favorite pair of pjs?

A. Not that I recall.

7) A fashion tradition dating back to the early 1900s states that you should put your white slacks, shoes, jackets and belts away after Labor Day. Do you follow that rule?

A. No. I wear white sneakers year-round.

 

8) Traditionally Labor Day marks the moment when fans turn their attention to the NFL and NCAA football. Will you be rooting for a particular football team this season?

A. No. My husband usually roots for the University of Virginia football team in college ball.

9) According to the auto insurance industry, the average American spends 52 minutes (26 each way) behind the wheel every day traveling to and from work. How do you while away the time when you're stuck in traffic?

A. I either listen to an audiobook, NPR, or a pop music station.

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however. 

Saturday 9: We Belong Together

Saturday 9: We Belong Together (2005)

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

This month we're going to recall Summer Songs. These will all be records that topped the charts during August.

1) Number 1 on the charts in August 20 years ago, "We Belong Together" is about the end of this romantic relationship. Mariah sings that now she won't have anyone to talk to on the phone until the sun comes up. That was then. Today many people prefer to text than to talk on the phone. Are you one of those people?

A. I prefer a telephone conversation to a text. Texting has its place, but once you get past 4 texts you may as well pick up the phone and call.

2) The video for this song features an elaborate wedding. Tell us about the last wedding you attended.

A. I can't remember the last wedding I attended. I haven't been to one in at least 20 years.

3) Mariah believes she inherited her musical gifts from her mom, who was an opera singer and vocal coach. When things were hectic in their household, Mariah recalls that music helped bring her and her mom closer together. Share a happy childhood memory featuring you and one of your parents.

A. I remember my father teaching me how to learn how to ride a bicycle.

4) After graduating from high school in Long Island, Mariah Carey went to Manhattan in search of stardom. While waiting for her big break, she enrolled in beauty school and waited tables. Both stylists and servers receive gratuities for their services. Do you consider yourself a good tipper?

A. I think I am. I'm not a bad tipper, anyway. 

5) The Fresh Air Fund operates six camps in the New York area to provide kids with a chance to learn and explore outdoors. They named Camp Mariah in Ms. Carey's honor to thank her for her support. Here's your chance to toot your own horn. Tell us about an honor you received. (Anything from a major award to a handmade drawing that says "World's Best Mom" counts. We want to hear about it.)

A. Last October I received an award for my work in historic preservation in my community. It was mostly for writing the magazine celebrating Botetourt County's 250th anniversary, but also for many other writing projects I have done through the years to promote historic preservation.

6) Mariah has mentioned she enjoys pizza and red wine. Will you be enjoying either pizza or red wine this weekend?

A. I will not be enjoying either one this weekend.

Let's look at the summer of 2005.

7) The biggest news story that summer was Hurricane Katrina. This deadly and destructive storm killed over 1,000 people and did more than $100 billion in damage. Have you ever endured a natural disaster (such as hurricane, flood, landslide, tornado, blizzard, wildfire)?

A. We had a major flood in 1985, known as the Flood of '85. In Roanoke, the Roanoke River rose 18.57 ft (5.66 m) in ten hours to a peak of 23.35 ft (7.12 m), considered a 1 in 200-year event. In the city, many residents had to be rescued after they were trapped, and three people drowned by driving into flooded waters. Considered the worst flood on record in the city, Roanoke sustained $225 million in damage, with 3,100 damaged homes and businesses. My husband was on duty that day and was one of the firefighters rescuing people. I was in Roanoke at a doctor's appointment and after going from route to route to avoid flooded roads, I finally found a way to the interstate, only to find I could not get home because of ponding water and mudslides. Eventually I was able to get home via a long back road, only to find my basement flooded. That was the worst one. However, several times we have had to evacuate from vacations at Myrtle Beach due to hurricanes.

8) Popular that summer was Kingda Ka, the new roller coaster at Six Flags Great America in Jackson, NJ. At the time, it was the tallest and fastest roller coaster in the world. Have you been to any fairs or amusement parks this summer?

A. I have not been to anything but the farmers' market this summer.

9) Award-winning American figure skater Alysa Liu was born in August of 2005. NBC Sports and their Peacock network report that figure skating events get high ratings. What's your favorite sport to watch on TV?

A. I like watching the WNBA these days. I like figure skating too, though, when I catch it on.

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however. 

Saturday 9: Colors of the Wind

Saturday 9: Colors of the Wind (1995)

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

This month we're going to recall Summer Songs. These will all be records that topped the charts during August.

1) Number 1 on the charts in August 30 years ago, "Colors of the Wind" is from the Disney hit, Pocahontas. Have you seen it?

A. I have not seen this movie. I seriously doubt Disney does the real Pocahontas much justice, though, given the way it generally rewrites myths and fairy tales.

2) This song celebrates the glories of nature. Have you spent much time outdoors this summer? If yes, what have you enjoyed doing?

A. I have not been outdoors much this summer. It has either been 100 degrees or raining, without much in between. When I have been outdoors, it has been to look at my garden, which is pathetic and is now mostly dead thanks to too much rain, too little sun, and too much heat.

3) Lyricist Stephen Schwartz said he was inspired by the works of Chief Seattle, Henry David Thoreau, and Ralph Waldo Emerson. Who is your favorite author?

A. I don't have a favorite author. I like a lot of authors. Sometimes I get on a kick, and I read everything I can by an author, then I move on. I've read all of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books, and Sue Grafton's Alphabet mystery books with Kinsey Millhone, and I've read fantasy books by numerous authors, including Tolkien, Rowling, Bujold, Goodkind, etc. I've read romances, gothics, nonfiction, classics, and more just this year. I read everything. 

4) This week's artist, Vanessa Williams, came to national attention as Miss America 1984. In the talent competition she sang "Happy Days Are Here Again." Over the years, contestants have sung, recited original poetry, danced, twirled batons, performed gymnastics and demonstrated martial arts. Which of 

your talents would wow the judges?

A. I could play the guitar, but I doubt it would do much "wowing." I'm not that good at it. Maybe I should recite a piece of original poetry?

5) Her family tree includes William A. Fields, who served in the Tennessee House of Representatives in the late 19th century. Are you interested in genealogy?

A. I have traced parts of my family history, and that of my husband, back beyond the Revolutionary War. I have an ancestor who fought in that war and others who fought in the losing side of the Civil War.

6) Vanessa supports the non-profit Dress for Success, which helps unemployed and underemployed women prepare with career coaching, networking and professional attire. Have you ever gone into a job interview found yourself unprepared? Or, if you prefer, tell us about an interview you confidently aced.

A. I don't know that I've ever been fully prepared for an interview. There is always some question that throws me.

 
Let's look at the summer of 1995.

7) 1995's best-selling new car was the Ford Taurus. That summer, dealers were promoting a 6.9% APR loan or $1,500 cash back with purchase. This summer, drivers with good credit might get a better deal because the average APR for new car loans is a little lower. Do you keep your eye on fluctuating interest rates?

A. I do not watch interest rates at the moment as I am not anticipating a purchase. I had a 1989 Ford Taurus that I loved, by the way. Great car. The 1999 model was not a great car, and we traded it in for another Taurus within a year. That car also had the same problem, and we ultimately ended up with a 2003 Toyota Camry because I refused to buy another Ford.

8) English yachtswoman Lisa Clayton made history by sailing solo around the world. It took her 10 months. Would you be comfortable spending months and months alone?

A. I imagine I could handle it, if there were things to do and books to read.

9) Legendary New York Yankee Mickey Mantle died in 1995. How is your baseball team doing this season?

A. I don't have a baseball team.

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however. 

Saturday 9: Shout

Saturday 9: Shout (1985)

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

This month we're going to recall Summer Songs. These will all be records that topped the charts during August.

1) Number 1 on the charts in August 40 years ago, the lyrics to "Shout" encourage us to "let it all out." When is the last time you raised your voice?

A. Well, it hasn't been lately. I've had laryngitis for a week.

2) This week's featured artists, Tears for Fears, were a duo -- Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith -- who met as teenagers in Bath, the largest city in Somerset, England. Bath has been named one of The Great Spa Towns of Europe. Popular spa treatments include massages, facials, body scrubs and wraps, mineral baths, manicures and pedicures. If you could treat yourself to a spa treatment today, which would you choose?

A. A massage.

3) When they first met, one of the things Roland and Curt bonded over was that they were both raised by single mothers. Who was your best friend during your teen years? What did you two bond over?

A. One of my closest friends in my teen years was Beth. She played piano in the band I was in, and we ran around together at other times and were great friends all through high school. We went our separate ways after I graduated. I only saw her a few times after that. She passed away in 2018.

4) Curt's wife, Frances Pennington, has had a long career in marketing, beginning in the record business and transitioning to fashion. Which industry do you think you'd enjoy more -- music or fashion?

A. Music. I have no clue about fashion but I do know a little bit about music.

5) Roland married his childhood sweetheart, Caroline Johnston. They were together for 35 years, until her death. Do you know whatever became of your childhood sweetheart?

A. One of my sweethearts from elementary school passed away this spring. The boy I went to prom with I lost track of. I don't know where he might be.

Let's look at the summer of 1985.

6) That summer, Chicago teenager Balu Natarajan won the National Spelling Bee. Are you a good speller?

A. I used to be.

7) Tinker Bell took her first nightly flight at Walt Disney World in Florida. Do you recall which Disney movie introduced us to Tinker Bell?

A. Peter Pan.

8) Derek Hough was a baby in the summer of 1985. In 2007 he became a regular on Dancing with the Stars, acclaimed for his ballroom dancing. Are you good on the dance floor?

A. I dance a bit like Julia Louis-Dreyfus on Seinfeld.

9) In 1985, Michael J. Fox became the first actor to have the #1 movie at the box office and the #1 TV show in the ratings. The movie was Back to the Future and the TV show was Family Ties. Have you seen the movie? Were you a fan of the show?

A. We watched it. I don't know that it was must-see TV, though.

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however. 

Saturday 9: Jive Talkin'

Saturday 9: Jive Talkin' (1975)

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

This month we're going to recall Summer Songs. These will all be records that topped the charts during August.

1) Number 1 on the charts in August 50 years ago, "Jive Talkin'" was originally called "Drive Talkin'," because it was inspired by the "chunka-chunka" sound the Bee Gees' car made as it rolled over the bridge from Biscayne Bay to Miami every morning. Tell us about a drive you make regularly. What do you love, or hate, about it?

A. I drive regularly to the grocery store. I don't love it or hate it; it is just the way to the grocery store. If I go left from the driveway, eventually I make another left, and I'm on a curvy road that has no middle line, and you wave at people as you pass them if you feel like it. If I go right, then another right, the road has been updated and has a line, and even turn lane lines, and eventually it turns right onto a major 4-lane highway. This way is 1 mile longer than the other, but if my husband and I leave at the same time, and one goes left at the end of the driveway and one goes right, we used to end up at the stoplight on Catawba Road at the same time. Now there are two stoplights between my house and Catawba Road if I go to the right, so I doubt we'd end up at Catawba at the same time.

2) Barry, Maurice and Robin Gibb always enjoyed singing together and as kids, practiced their harmonies in the bathroom because that's where the acoustics were best. Do you sing in the shower?

A. I do sing in the shower.

3) Early in their career, the brothers wrote and recorded a radio jingle for Coca Cola. If we were to peer into your refrigerator right now, would we find any carbonated beverages?

A. You would find my husband's Diet Dr. Pepper.

4) Though their sound depended on tight harmonies, all three Bee Gees were heavy smokers, which is bad for the throat. Do you smoke? Are there smokers/vapers in your life?

A. I do not smoke, nor does my husband. I do not know of any smokers/vapers in my life.

5) Robin Gibb agreed to perform on the CD Sesame Street Fever so his kids could meet Cookie Monster. Who is your favorite Muppet?

A. I do not have a favorite Muppet, but I will say Frog because he sang that lovely song about rainbows. "Why are there so many songs about rainbows, and what's on the other side? Rainbows are visions, but only illusions, and rainbows have nothing to hide."

6) In addition to younger brother Andy, who also scored hit records, the Bee Gees have a sister, Lesley. Unlike her siblings, she didn't go into show business. Instead, she became a dog breeder. Tell us about a dog who holds a special place in your heart.

A. When I was a child, we had many dogs. I think my favorite dog was Major, a white poodle. His mother was Heidi, a black poodle, and she gave birth to Major. I don't know if Major was the dog I saved from the water when it was a pup, but I have always thought he might have been. When I was 7, Heidi had her pups, and one night I heard a noise, and I got up and one of the pups had crawled into Heidi's water bowl, and it wasn't moving. I got it out and wrapped it in a towel and went to wake my mother. She and I massaged the pup and it came back to life. As an adult, I only had one dog. She was a pup I picked up at a flea market, a mix of an Eskimo Spitz and a terrier. She was not an affectionate dog but she was my dog. We kept her outside because of my allergies and honestly, she seemed to prefer being outside to being inside when I put her in the garage on very cold nights. She died in early 2001 at the age of 17, which is quite old for a dog. It took me a year to stop looking for her when I pulled into the driveway.

Let's look at the summer of 1975.

7) That summer, producer Lorne Michaels was auditioning talent for the Not Ready for Prime Time Players. This band of comedic performers would premiere that October in a new show called Saturday Night Live. In the days before DVRs and streaming, Saturday Night Live was considered "appointment television," a show you wanted to catch when it aired so you made sure you were in front of a TV to hear "Live from New York, it's Saturday Night!" Is there a show you go out of your way to watch when it airs? Or is most of your viewing either recorded or streamed?

A. We watch The Voice live, but we also record a lot of things these days, or stream.

8) The top movie at the box office that summer was Jaws. Have you seen it?

A. I don't think I have ever seen Jaws. Nor have I ever wished to.

9) In 1975, Jim Palmer of the Baltimore Orioles was having a career season and won the second of his three Cy Young Awards. In 2012 he put all three trophies up for auction. As proud as he was of the awards, he said, "My priorities have changed," and the money would help pay for college for his grandchildren. Think about your belongings. Is there anything you would never part with at any price?

A. Belongings are just things. I don't know of anything I hold that dear. There are people I hold that dear, but not things.

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however. 

Saturday 9: Rhythm of My Heart

Saturday 9: Rhythm of My Heart (1991)

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

1) Rod Stewart sings that the words "I love you" roll off his tongue. When did you most recently say, "I love you?"

A. Last night. My husband and I say it all the time.

 

2) In "Rhythm of My Heart," he recalls running down the alley with his lady love. Does your neighborhood have alleys?

A. My neighborhood has farm trails. No alleys.

 

3) Rod is well known for his coif. Are you having a good hair day today?

A. Lots of humidity and high heat today, so no.

 

4) Rod was the youngest of 5. He remembers that, as a family, they enjoyed singing with Al Jolson records. Did your family have singalongs?

A. Not exactly.

5) He is proud of his luxury car collection, which includes a Rolls Royce, a Ferrari and the one rumored to be his favorite: a classic mid-70s Lamborghini Countach LP400 Periscopio. Looking back on years as a driver and a car owner, which vehicle is your all-time favorite?

A. I had 1989 Ford Taurus that was a very good car. I drove it for 10 years. I also liked my 2003 Toyota Camry, which I also drove for 10 years. Both performed well and required little maintenance.

 

6) Rod turned 80 this year and he's still touring. Once known for his hard partying, he takes better care of himself now and rides a stationary bike every day. What steps do you take to keep fit?

A. I walk on the treadmill.

7) In 1991, when this song was popular, Star Trek creator Gene Roddenberry died. Do you have a favorite Star Trek character?

A. From the original series, my favorite would have been Dr. McCoy aka Bones. My favorite from the series overall would be Captain Kathryn Janeway.

8) Also in 1991, Seinfeld was a big deal on network television. Today the entire series is available to stream and on DVD. When you binge a show, are you more likely to pop in a disc or turn to a streaming service?

A. We have DVDs of many shows, so I guess that, although I also stream some shows now that we have Internet that actually works.

 

9) Random question: Have you ever cared for a hamster or a gerbil? (Extra non-existent Saturday 9 points for its name.)

A. I have never had a hamster or a gerbil.

 

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however. 

Saturday 9: It All Depends on You

Saturday 9: It All Depends on You (1959)

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

1) In this song, Shirley Bassey sings that she could be happy or sad. As you answer these questions, do lean more toward happy or sad?

A. I am fair to middlin'. 

 

2) She tells us that she can save money or spend it. Do you try to stick to a budget?

A. I try to stick to a budget for the household items. The farm? Eh. Depends on machinery breakdowns and bugs and such.

 

3) By the time Shirley Bassey recorded "It All Depends on You," it was already an oldie, written back in 1926. Can you think of a song, book, or movie that you enjoy today that you believe audiences will relate to 2125?

A. For a song: I Did It My Way. For a book: The Lord of the Rings. For a TV series: M*A*S*H. For a movie: The Wizard of Oz.

 

4) Though she has risen to the title Dame Commander of the British Empire (DBE), her childhood allowed her little education. She dropped out at 15 and got a factory job to help her family. How old were you when you got your first full-time job? What was it?

A. I was 18 and I worked as a receptionist.

5) A favorite of the Royal Family, Shirley performed at the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Party at Buckingham Palace. How would you like to celebrate your next anniversary or birthday? Are you in the mood for a big blow out, or would you prefer something low key?

A. My anniversary is next, and we will, as always, have a quiet celebration.

 

6) Madame Tussaud's has two wax figurines of Shirley – one in London and a second in Las Vegas. Do you enjoy wax museums, or do you think they're creepy?

A. I have memories of visiting a wax museum in Williamsburg when I was in elementary school and we took a school trip there and being rather creeped out by it. I don't think it still exists, though.

7) In 1959, when this song was popular, most women wore nylons on a daily basis and the average price per pair was $1. What socks or leg wear – if any – do you have on right now?

A. Nothing on right now, but I normally wear compression socks. I take medications that make my ankles swell.

8) Also in 1959, Alaska became our 49th state. Today, cruise lines showcase Alaska on 4- or 7-night cruises. What do you consider the perfect length for a vacation trip? Is a 3-day weekend too short? Are two weeks away from home too long? What's your ideal?

A. Three-day weekend vacations are too short, two weeks is too long. I think a week is about right.

 

9) Random question: Which cable channel would you watch more often – one that shows nothing but classic sitcoms, or one that shows nothing but new movies?

A. Probably the one with the sitcoms.

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however. 

Saturday 9: Since U Been Gone

Saturday 9: Since U Been Gone (2005)

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

 

1) In this song, Kelly Clarkson is dissatisfied with her relationship and she's moving on. What's something you've moved on from lately? It could be anything from a romance to the laundry detergent you've been using for years.

A. I've moved on from complete distrust of AI to playing with it to see what it can and can't do. It's another tool, really, like spell check, if used correctly.

 

2) She sings that she can now breathe. Studies have shown that July can be a good month for allergy sufferers because trees and grasses are no longer pollinating. How are your eyes, ears, nose and throat this morning?

A. I've been having lots of allergy issues this July, more than I normally do. Maybe because we've had such heat and humidity. Humidity creates mold.

 

3) Kelly complains that their romance reminds her of a "stupid love song." Let's be more positive: what love song do you associate with positive memories?

A. Longer by Dan Fogelberg

4) While Kelly's first love is music, she's established herself as a TV personality. In addition to her daytime talk show, she's been a judge on The Voice and hosted an awards show. Have you ever been on TV?

A. I was on TV when I was young, on some local show. I was interviewed on the local news some years ago.

5) She has confessed a weakness for Doritos. Would we find salty snacks in your kitchen right now?

A. Lays Baked Potato Chips, Lays Wavy Chips (low sodium) (the latter are my husband's, the former are mine)

 

6) Kelly has found her weight the source of public debate. Are you like Kelly, whose weight fluctuates? Or does it stay stable?

A. It moves around a bit. But I am overweight and a few pounds one way or the other doesn't seem noticeable to anyone but me.

 

7) In 2005, when this song was popular, a motorist made news in Texas when he was ticketed for driving over 200 mph in a 75-mph zone. Have you ever been pulled over by the police?

A. Not for speeding.

 

8) Also in 2005, Tom Cruise had a pop culture moment when he famously jumped on a sofa. Do you remember where he did this?

A. He was on some talk show, I think. Dave Letterman, maybe?

 

9) Random question: Tell us about a photo you wish you'd taken but didn't.

A. I've been trying to take pictures of lightning but so far, I've failed. We aren't situated where we have a good view of storms. There are too many trees around us. I wish I had taken more pictures of my grandparents, though. I think there is only one photo of my maternal grandfather around.

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however. 

Saturday 9: Lady Liberty

Saturday 9: Lady Liberty (2018)

. . . because it's 4th of July weekend.

Hear Barbra Streisand sing it here.

1) This song is a Valentine to the Statue of Liberty. Have you ever visited Lady Liberty?

A. I have seen her from afar during a visit to New York City, but I have not seen her up close.

2) When you combine the lady herself and her pedestal, she stands 22 stories high. What's the tallest building you've ever been in?

A. I have been in the 21-story Wells Fargo Building in Roanoke, VA. It was called the Dominion Tower at the time, though.

 

3) Her crown represents universal liberty with seven spikes for the seven seas. Without looking it up, can you name the seven seas?

A. Pacific, Atlantic, Indian Ocean, Mediterranean, Arctic Sea, and I'm not sure any of those are right. Nope, I am only partly right.  Artic, North Atlantic, South Atlantic, Indian, North Pacific, South Pacific, Southern. That's according to NOAA. But a search also gives me: Black Sea, Adriatic Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Indian Ocean, Caspian Sea, Persian Gulf, and the Red Sea. I guess it depends on which 7 you want to pick. 

 

4) The song was written by Desmond Child, a Cuban American from Gainesville, home of the University of Florida. In 1965, a team of UF scientists invented Gatorade. Do you have any Gatorade in your home right now?

A. I do have Gatorade in my house right now.

5) While best known for his work with KISS, Bon Jovi and Cher, Desmond Child was nominated for an Emmy for his work on the Muppets 2003 holiday special. This morning, as we enjoy summer, what's the first Christmas carol that pops into your head?

A. Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow!

6) Desmond wrote this song specifically for Barbra Streisand. Watching her record it was a dream come true and he found himself standing very close to her as she sang. When he asked if he was "hovering," she suggested it might be better if he gave her a little more space. Does it bother you when someone stands very close or reads over your shoulder?

A. Yes.

7) Fireworks were introduced to celebrate the 4th because they represent the "rockets red glare and bombs bursting in air." When did you most recently sing "The Star Spangled Banner?"

A. I can't recall. It is not an easy song to sing.

8) John Adams predicted the 4th would be observed with "pomp and parades." Does your community have a parade in honor of the day?

A. Yes, there are parades here on the 4th of July. When I was in high school, the band used to march in one of them. They would give us salt tablets before we went marching to keep us all from passing out in the street from dehydration.

9) Celebrity chef Rachael Ray says she considers mini-hamburgers, or "sliders," the All-American food. What will/did you dine on this 4th of July?

A. Hot dogs.

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I encourage you to visit the posts of other participants in Saturday 9 and leave a comment. Because there are no rules, it is your choice. Saturday 9 players hate rules. We love memes, however.