Saturday 9: Four-Leaf Clover

Saturday 9: I'm Looking Over a Four-Leaf Clover (2001)

Selected in honor of St. Patrick's Day. 

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

1) This is one of the songs included in Willie Nelson's Rainbow Connection album. He named it after his daughter Amy's favorite song when she was a little girl. She'd been asking him to record "The Rainbow Connection" for 20 years and finally, in 2001, he came through for her. Think of something you had to wait for. Was it worth the wait?

A. I knew two months after we met that I would marry my then-boyfriend, but it took him another seven months to come around and propose. He was definitely worth the wait!

2) Willie can trace his family tree back to the Revolutionary War. Are you interested in genealogy?

A. I can trace my family tree back to the Revolutionary War, too. I have always had an interest in genealogy but it's something I hope to pick up again at some point.

3) Today Willie is legendary performer, but as a child, he was very uncomfortable in front of crowds. He recalled that during his school days, reciting in front of his class made him so uncomfortable he suffered nose bleeds. When did you most recently have a bloody nose?

A. I don't generally get a bloody nose. I can't recall when I last had one.

4) During the 1990s, Willie had problems with the IRS. His management team set up illegal tax shelters, and he ended up owing millions in back taxes and penalties. This year's IRS filing deadline is Wednesday, April 15. Will you be early, on time, or will you need an extension?

A. I have my taxes for 2025 taken care of.

5) In "I'm Looking Over a Four-Leaf Clover," Willie sings about appreciating something he has previously overlooked. Is there anything positive in your life you feel you may take for granted? 

A. I'm sure there are lots of things. Think about it: I have a roof over my head, food, a little extra spending money if I want to buy a book or something. I have electricity and water. I have a man who loves me. What else could a woman want, really?

6) Four leaf clovers and shamrocks are considered good luck. Do you have a lucky charm?

A. I do not have a lucky charm.

7) "The wearing o' the green" is one way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day. Will you wear something green in honor of the day?

A. I generally don't, but I will be going out that day so I will see if I can find something for the occasion. I don't want to get pinched.

8) According to Irish folklore, if you catch a leprechaun, he must either give you his pot o' gold or grant you three wishes. Would you choose the gold or the wishes?

A. I think I'd take the three wishes. With one, you could wish for gold if that's what you want. Although as fairy tales and legends generally point out, it is important to be careful what you wish for and how you word the wish.

   

9) Traditional Irish stew is made with mutton or lamb, though here in the US beef is also very popular. What's your favorite soup/stew?

A. I'm afraid I'm a very boring soup eater. I just like chicken soup.

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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: Linger

Saturday 9: Linger (1993)

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

1) In this song, Dolores O'Riordan of the Cranberries sings that her lover has her wrapped around his finger. Do you feel that anyone has you wrapped around their finger?

A. Not particularly, no. I know people who have tried but I am an independent sort. Yes, I have been married for 42 years, but it's a mutual sort of marriage.

2) This was one of the first songs Delores and Noel Hogan wrote together. They performed it often live and perfected it before going into the studio to record it approximately two years later. Because they had polished the performance and arrangement, it's not a surprise that it was the biggest hit off their debut album. Tell us about a time when your preparation paid off.

A. I worked hard to create a non-credit class for the community college about journaling. It seemed to go over well. 

3) The Cranberries believed the moody black-and-white video (linked above) playing on MTV contributed to the song's popularity. MTV and VH1 were highly influential when they showed music videos and interviews 24/7 during the 1980s and 1990s. Do you recall watching music videos on MTV and/or VH1?

A. I was partial to VH1, they played songs that were more to my liking, but yes, I remember when they actually played music videos. That was before youtube and the Internet.

4) The Cranberries were founded by brothers Noel and Mike Hogan in their hometown in Limerick, Ireland. The River Shannon runs through Limerick. Do you live near a river? 

A. I live near a pond and a creek. The closest rivers are the James River and the Roanoke River.

5) Fergal Lawler soon joined the brothers and became the Cranberries drummer. Today he says he enjoys listening to his early work with the group because, "Songs are like a snapshot in time." Do you often flip through photo albums and look at snapshots?

A. I do not flip through photo albums, but I do like to read the archives of newspapers.

6) Dolores O'Riordan showed up for her Cranberries audition dressed casually in a black tracksuit with her own Casio electronic keyboard tucked under her arm. The Hogans were impressed not only by her vocals but her no-nonsense, "let's get to work" attitude. Share a memory from one of your job interviews.

A. I was on my way to a job interview when I wrecked the car. I called and asked if I could come another day, because, well, car smashed. I also had a bad contusion on my knee. Of course, the office was up a flight of stairs that I could barely climb because my knee was so swollen, so I hobbled in there and knew immediately I wouldn't get the job, there was all of this, "Aww, look, she's limping to make it look good," kind of talk going on around me. I don't know why I bothered.

7) In 1993, when "Linger" was released, The Nanny premiered on CBS. It's remembered today for its catchy theme song, which tells the story of "the nanny named Fran." Can you recall the lyrics to theme of one of your favorite shows?

A. Here's the story of a lovely lady, who was bringing up three very lovely girls. All of them had hair of gold, like their mother, the youngest one in curls. Here's a story, of a man named Brady, who bringing up three boys of his own. They were four men living all together, but they were all alone. Until one day when the lady met this fellow, and they knew that it was much more than a hunch. That this group, must somehow form a family, and that's the way we all became the Brady Bunch.

8) In 1993, gas was $1.11/gallon. Could your vehicle use a fill-up right now?

A. No, I am one of those people who top off the tank when it gets below a quarter full.

9) Random question: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A. I have no idea.

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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: Farewell Amanda

Saturday 9: Farewell, Amanda (1949)

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

 

1) The record begins with a long instrumental interlude, and when the lyrics kick in at about the 1:00 mark, they bid Amanda "farewell, adios, addio, adieu." Of course, you recognize "farewell" as English. Without looking it up, can you identify the other languages? 

A. Spanish, Italian, and French.

 

2) Can you say "goodbye" in a language not represented in question #1?

A. Nyet.

3) The lyrics reference a night full of stars. When did you last take a moment to check out the night sky?

A. It hasn't been that long ago. I like looking at the night sky. 

 

4) This song was written for Adam's Rib, a comedy starring Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn. The movie is about husband-and-wife lawyers who square off against one another in court. Have you ever served on a jury?

A. I have been called to serve, but once the lawyers found out I was a journalist, I was immediately sent on my way. Apparently, they don't want writers on juries.

 

5) "Farewell, Amanda" was composed by Noel Coward. Though best known as a playwright, he also wrote more than a thousand songs and was a director and an actor. His epitaph reads, "A talent to amuse." How would you like to be remembered?

A. I don't think I will be remembered at all, but perhaps something along the line of "She did her best."

 

6) There's even a book of Noel Coward paintings. It was published after his death, in part because Coward considered himself only an amateur painter. When did you last pick up a paintbrush?

A. I can't remember when I picked up a paintbrush to paint a picture, but we last painted the interior of the house about 10 years ago.

 

7) In 1949, when audiences first heard "Farewell, Amanda," Americans began playing Clue. What's the last board game you played?

A. Scrabble.

 

8) The best-selling novel of 1949 was Point of No Return by John P. Marquand. Tell us about the last book you finished.

A. The last book I finished was The Medici Manuscript, by C. J. Arthur. I think it is characterized as a romantasy. It is set in post-WWI England and is about an assistant librarian who may or may not be a "magician," as this book calls people with specific special powers. It's very literary, focusing on mysteries that involve books, so far. This is the second in a series. 

 

9) Random question: Growing up, did you share a bedroom?

A. Not that I recall, no.

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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: Valentine

Saturday 9: Won't You Be My Valentine? (1961)

 

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

 

1) Dore Alpert sings that while he considered asking others to be his Valentine, he's sure that this is the girl he wants to love "forever more." What do you think is the secret of a long-lasting romantic relationship?

A. Be friends first. If you are friends, then you can weather the storms.

2) Dore is better known as Herb Alpert. He used the name "Dore" early in his career because he thought it was more befitting a teen idol than "Herb." Who made you swoon when you were a teenager?

A. When I was a teenager, I liked (I'm pretty sure I don't swoon) Keith Patridge on the Partridge Family, aka David Cassidy, and Davy Jones of the Monkees. I also liked Erik Estrada from CHIPS.

 

3) Herb found he was a better trumpeter than singer. Between 1962 and 1969, Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass, had 12 consecutive gold albums. They were so popular that in 1966, they sold more records than Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, The Beatles and the Rolling Stones. Of those artists (Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, The Beatles and the Rolling Stones), which is your favorite?

A. The Rolling Stones and The Beatles are basically a tie.

4) He found his greatest success as an executive. Herb and partner Jerry Moss founded A&M Records and signed an array of talented artists including Cheech and Chong, The Carpenters, and Cat Stevens. Herb was happy to step away from performing and run the record label. Are you comfortable in front of an audience or crowd? Or would you prefer to be behind the scenes?

A. I prefer to be behind the scenes.

5) Karen admitted that when The Carpenters were first signed by A&M, she had a crush on Herb and liked his aftershave lotion. Do you usually wear a fragrance?

A. I am fragrance free all the time, as is my husband. I'm allergic to the smell of everything. Even new shoes. Everything has to sit out in the garage to off gas before we bring it in the house.

This is our Valentine's Day Saturday 9 and so this morning we shall focus on the holiday. 

6) The holiday is also known as The Feast of St. Valentine. Do you have a special meal planned for February 14?

A. I think we might have hot dogs.

7) Thames River Cruises offers special dinner cruises for Valentine's Day that give lovers a view of London. Some cruises offer live jazz, others classical music. Which would you prefer: jazz or classical?

A. Classical music.

 

8) Women buy and send more Valentines than men do. Who received the last greeting card you sent?

A. I sent out sympathy cards a while back.

9) Men buy and send more roses at Valentine's Day than women do. What's your favorite flower?

A. Irises.

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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: So Young

Saturday 9: You Make Me Feel So Young (1956)

 

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

1) This morning, do you feel younger or older than your years?

A. I think I just feel my age.

 

2) In this song, Frank Sinatra tells us that every time he sees his lover's grin, he's happy. What's something you can reliably count on to lift your spirits?

A. Disco music. I know it gets a bad rap, but it is hard to sit still when disco is playing.

 

3) The lyrics mention hide-and-seek. What games did you play when you were young? 

A. The usual. Hide-and-seek, jacks, Monopoly, tag, dodge ball, etc.

4) Frank Sinatra was a fan of Campbell's chicken and rice soup, believing it helped his throat feel better after an evening of performing. Is Campbell's soup in your kitchen right now?

A. Yes, of course it is.

 

5) Frank's favorite dessert was a slice of lemon ricotta torte. He believed every meal should include "a final flourish." Do you more often indulge in or skip dessert?

A. I do both and I don't keep track, so I have no idea whether I indulge more often or skip dessert more often.

 

6) At Sinatra's home in Palm Springs, CA, you'd find a less sophisticated dessert. He always kept Entenmann's Crumb Cake on hand for his young granddaughters. Share a memory of your grandparents. 

A. My grandmother on my mother's side kept a "rag bag" in the bottom of the hall closet. We'd pull old sheets, towels, etc., out of there and play with them. Those old pieces of cloth became capes while we were superheroes, tents, blankets, - whatever we needed. My grandfather was a gruffly kind man who worked really hard, but he would pay us all a quarter each to mow the yard. Then we'd troop up to the Orange Market for a soda, a candy bar, and a comic book - all for 25 cents. 

 

7) In 1956, when this song was popular, Frank was tooling around Southern California in a blue Continental Mark II. That model was known for its interior of hand-stitched imported Scottish leather. 70 years later, Scottish leather is still used in luxury cars because it's both soft and durable and the production methods minimize environmental impact. If you could splurge on something right now, what would it be? A luxury car, jewelry, travel, clothes, something else? (No responsible answers allowed!)

A. I would travel, but I'd want to take an entourage with me. Someone to pack, make the reservations, ensure I get on the plane or train, do my hair, pick out my clothes, whatever. I mean, if I'm going to splurge, I may as well do it up like Madonna, right?

 

8) Also in 1956, The Invasion of the Body Snatchers and Forbidden Planet were popular at the box office. Do you have a favorite sci-fi movie?

A. I will go with a Star Wars movie, although I'm also torn between a Star Trek one.

 

9) Random question: What were you doing three hours ago?

A. I was eating a bowl of Cheerios.

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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: Big Star

Saturday 9: Big Star (1962)

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

1) Shelley Fabares sings that when she hears her lover's records on the radio, they bring back memories. Do you prefer familiar songs or do you seek out new music?

A. I tend to listen to familiar songs, especially when I am writing or doing accounting work. I don't mind new music when I'm cleaning or have time to pay attention. But when all I want is background noise, then the older music works best because I don't have to think about it.

2) Shelley introduced "Big Star" on an episode of The Donna Reed Show, where she played daughter Mary. She remembers the show's star and her TV mom, Donna Reed, as "an extraordinary woman." Who is your favorite TV mom? 

A. My favorite TV mom would be Shirley Partridge from the Partridge Family.

3) Speaking of big stars, Shelley made three movies with Elvis, who said she was his favorite leading lady. What qualities do you value in a coworker? 

A. I like someone who is helpful, thoughtful, kind, patient, and intelligent.

4) Though best known for comedy, Shelley appeared as Cathy in a made-for-TV adaptation of Wuthering Heights. Have you ever read the Emily Bronte classic?

A. I read Wuthering Heights the first time when I was 9 years old. I have read it again since but probably should pick it up again now that I'm older. I come away with something different every time I read a classic.

 

5) Shelley Fabares' aunt was Broadway, film and TV veteran Nanette Fabray. Do you have a favorite aunt or uncle?

A. I like all of my aunts and uncles. It wouldn't be polite to say I have a favorite.

 

6) In the 1990s she was twice nominated for an Emmy Award (Best Supporting Actress in a Comedy) for her work on Coach. She didn't win. Millions of viewers got to see her applaud graciously when Laurie (Roseanne) Metcalf's named was announced both times. If you were nominated for a major award and the ceremony was televised, would you get all dressed up and go? Or would you prefer to watch from home?

A. I think I would feel like I had to be there, if I had worked that hard. 

 

7) In 1962, when this song was first released, Jack Nicklaus launched his legendary golf career. Do you enjoy playing golf? Do you watch golf on TV?

A. I do not watch golf on TV.

 

8) Also in 1962, Marilyn Monroe bought her first home at the age of 36. Up until then she had always been a renter. Marilyn was residing there at the time of her death that August. How long have you lived at your current address? 

A. My address has changed three times over the last 39 years, but I have not moved from the current spot.

 

9) Random question – According to a survey, the average American will kiss 15 different partners over their lifetime. Do you estimate your personal total is more, less, or right on track?

A. I don't know. Are we talking second grade stolen kisses on the ballfield or what? (I had a friend who told me once she dated 115 different men before she found the man she married. I was stunned. "I didn't sleep with them all," she declared.)

*I will be at my father's funeral today. I will be around to visit when I can. Thanks for understanding.*

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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: Up the Ladder

A note to my Saturday 9 friends: my father unexpectedly passed away Thursday. I had written this meme before that happened.

Saturday 9: Up the Ladder to the Roof (1970)

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

 

1) Many people are uncomfortable with ladders. Some feel unsteady on the steps, others have a fear of heights. Then there's the superstition that warns against walking under ladders. Are you afraid of ladders?

A. I am not afraid of ladders. I do get a little nervous with heights and now that I am older, I don't particularly have any desire to climb ladders. But I would if I had to.

 

2) In this song, the Supremes advise us to go up the ladder to the roof to be closer to Heaven. While poetic, that's not really why most homeowners climb onto the roof. They're more likely replacing shingles or cleaning the gutters. Have you ever been on the roof of your building?

A. I have been on the roof of my house, but it was a long time ago, perhaps even when we were building it.

 

3) The record was the Supremes first and biggest hit without Diana Ross. When Jean Terrell replaced Diana as lead singer, the two ladies appeared together at a press event to launch this new iteration of the Supremes. Have you ever met your replacement at a job, or perhaps the person you replaced?

A. I have met different writers who were taking over the work I was doing at various newspapers as I moved from one to the other.

 

4) Mary Wilson was a member of the group when it was formed in 1959 and stayed through 1977, when the Supremes officially disbanded. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American stays at a job 3.9 years. Looking over your job history, how long did you typically stick with an employer?

A. I worked as a freelance writer, self-employed, from 1984 until 2024. During that time, I wrote for a variety of publications, but most often for The Fincastle Herald or the New Castle Record. There were other jobs I worked at for a few years, but I don't think I stayed anywhere for longer than three years. Even though I wrote for those newspapers for decades, I was not on staff.

 

5) The third Supreme performing on this record was Cindy Birdsong. After the group broke up for good, Cindy finished nursing school and practiced at UCLA Medical Center. When did you last interact with a nurse or nurse practitioner?

A. I had a telehealth conference with my doctor earlier this month, and the nurse set up the call. In person, I last interacted with a nurse back in December. 

 

6) In 1970, when this song was popular, TV shows about doctors like Marcus Welby, MD and Medical Center ranked high in the Nielsen ratings. Medical shows are still popular today, with Grey's Anatomy entering its 22nd season and The Pitt earning critical accolades. Do you have a favorite TV doctor?

A. My favorite TV doctor would be Leonard McCoy, aka "Bones" on the original Star Trek.

 

7) Also in 1970, when this song was popular, audiences were lining up to see the movie Love Story. Without looking it up, complete the film's most famous line:  "Love means _______________."

A. "Never having to say you're sorry." I don't agree with the sentiment.  

 

8) Slumberchums™ were all the rage among pre-teens in 1970. These sleeping bags had attached pillow "heads" that made it look like you slipping into sleep inside a plush bear. When did you most recently sleep in a sleeping bag?

A. I took a sleeping bag with me to band camp when I was a sophomore in high school. We were to bring our own sheets, and my mother thought a sleeping bag would be less trouble. She was correct.

 

9) Random question: Did you take a multivitamin this morning? If yes, did you swallow it or chew it?

A. I take my multivitamins at dinner. I swallow them whole and do not chew them.

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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: Man I Need

Saturday 9: Man I Need

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

1) In this song, Olivia Dean is looking for a man who wants to really communicate and doesn't make her "read between the lines." Tell us about a time when you felt you had to work hard to figure out what someone was trying to tell you.

A. When I worked as a news reporter, I spent a lot of time trying to ensure I understood what people were telling me. I can't point to a specific time, really, but every article required research, a little prompting, many questions, and I had to be as sure as I could be that understood the nuances of the topic, whatever it was.

 

2) She's eager to meet his best friend and join their friend group. Have you made any new friends recently?

A. Not lately, no.

 

3) "Man I Need" was a hit in the fall of 2025. It was so popular that, in addition to CDs, a special vinyl release was scheduled in time for Christmas (2025) gift giving. How do you listen to music most often? Do you play CDs, download, stream, or play vinyl records?

A. I have my favorite CDs on my computer to listen to. Generally, I listen to music through Alexa. I have a favorites playlist, or I just ask her to play something and she does. I do not subscribe to their music service nor will I, but what I get for free as a prime member works well enough.

 

4) Olivia Dean recalls that her first public performance was singing at a school talent show. If we had a Sat 9 talent show, what would you do to entertain us?

A. I would either play the guitar or recite a poem I wrote.

 

5) She says she loved listening to her parents' music collection. How about you? Did you and your parents share musical tastes? How about you and your kids?

A. Once I discovered I could change the dial from country and western to Top 40, that was it as far as listening to the same music as my parents. My mother liked Top 40 but my father was mostly into country. I know a lot of the older country songs because of that, but I don't many new songs in that genre, unless it was a crossover hit. I don't have any children.

 

6) Olivia likes to be dressed up when she gets onstage, favoring gowns and heels. She says of her audiences, "If you guys paid good money that you worked hard for, let me give you a show." How do you feel when you're invited to an event that calls for you to dress up? Are you enthusiastic about choosing your outfit, or would you rather keep it casual?

A. I prefer casual. 

 

7) She enjoys classic film and lists Singin' in the Rain as her favorite. What's the last movie you watched? Do you recommend it to other Sat 9ers?

A. The last movie I saw at the theater was Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale. I would recommend it, especially if you liked the TV show Downton Abbey.

 

8) In 2025, when this song was popular, the average price tag for a new vehicle was $47,690 and $25,100 for a used one. Are you planning to make a big purchase in 2026? 

A. I certainly hope not.

9) Random question: Are you better with love or money?

A. Probably money. Love is hard.

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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: Volare

Saturday 9: Volare (1960)

 

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

1) The word "volare" is Italian for "to fly." Say something else in Italian.

A. Non parlo italiano . . . però Mamma mia!

2) This week, Bobby Rydell invites us to take off with him up in the clouds and promises we'll find a rainbow. Countless lyricists have included rainbows in their songs. Can you name another song that mentions rainbows?

A. Rainbow Connection, Somewhere Over the Rainbow.

 

3) His happy heart is singing. What is making you happy this morning?

A. What is this "happy" of which you speak . . . Ah! I know! That feeling of giddiness that overtakes me when the husband hugs me and plants a kiss upon me!

 

4) Bobby Rydell, like Frankie Avalon and Fabian, was a 1950s teen idol who hailed from Philadelphia. Home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Philly is Pennsylvania's most populous city. Have you ever been there?

A. I have never been to Philadelphia. I have been to Pennsylvania, though.

 

5) Bobby was such a perfect example of a clean-cut American boy that when Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey sat down to write the play Grease, they named their fictional high school Rydell High after him. Do you have a favorite song from Grease?

A. Hopelessly Devoted to You.

 

6) In addition to singing, Bobby also acted. His most famous film role was opposite Ann-Margret in Bye, Bye, Birdie (1963). Have you seen it?

A. I do not think I have seen that movie.

7) In 1960, when this record was popular, so were hand-loomed, 100% virgin wool sweaters from Italy. You could order one from the Sears catalog for $12.60 (approx. $135 in today's dollars). That sweater was labeled "dry clean only." Do you have any garments waiting to be picked up from the cleaners?

A. I do not buy garments that need to go to the cleaners. If it isn't wash and wear, it is not in my closet.

 

8) Also in 1960, Princess Margaret married photographer Antony Armstrong-Jones. They met when he was commissioned to take her official portrait. Who took the most recent photo of you?

A. I think a friend of mine last took a picture of me.

 

9) Random question: Is your oldest friend also your best friend?

A. My oldest friend is one of my closest friends. But by some standards, my oldest friend would be my best friend, depending on which friend I am discussing. And yes, I am intentionally being obtuse.

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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: New Year's Day

Saturday 9: New Year's Day (2017)

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

Welcome to the first Saturday 9 of 2026.
 

1) In the lyrics, Taylor Swift promises she'll not only be there for the party, but for the clean up afterward. As we say move on from the holiday season, could your home benefit from a thorough cleaning?

A. I'm pretty sure most homes could benefit from a "thorough" cleaning. Mine is as clean as I can keep it. It's a little cluttered in two rooms because it's a small space, but that's clutter, not dirt. A thorough cleaning, by my definition, would involve completely emptying a room, cleaning it, and then cleaning everything as it is put back. I daresay most people don't do that, and while I did it a few times when I was younger, there is no way I could do it now.

2) This song describes a party where guests took Polaroid pictures. Have you ever owned a Polaroid camera? Do you have one now?

A. I remember my family of origin having a Polaroid, but I have never had one myself.

3) Taylor sings that we should "hold on to memories." What special memory from 2025 will you hang onto?

A. This is the year I actually retired, if you can call continuing to keep the books for the farm and my husband's septic installation business "retired." Mostly, I retired from freelancing and trying to make money with my writing. I guess that's a good memory to hold onto.
 
4) Taylor Swift grew up on a Christmas tree farm in Pennsylvania. Have you taken your tree, or other holiday decorations, down yet? If you didn't decorate at all, let us know that, too.

A. My holiday decorations went back into the closet on New Year's Eve.

5) Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce announced their engagement, but no wedding date has been shared. Do you anticipate attending any weddings in 2026?

A. I do not anticipate attending any weddings in 2026.

6) Travis' team, the Kansas City Chiefs, is currently 6-10. Not exactly the record their fans hoped for. According to a 2024 Pew research study, 53% of Americans said football is their favorite sport. Have you watched much football this season? 

A. I watched bits and pieces of college games, but not enough to mention, really. We always root for University of Virginia, mostly because everyone else around here roots for Virginia Tech.
 
7) In 2017, when "New Year's Day" was released, Wonder Woman was a hit at the box office. While Wonder Woman's superhero abilities vary depending on which TV show, movie or comic book you refer to, some of her powers remain consistent: a) immense strength, b) superhuman speed, c) the ability to almost instantly recover/heal from injury. Which would you like to possess – a, b, or c?

A. C, for sure. Being able to recover from a stubbed, broken toe and barely feel it? That would be terrific.

8) Have you made any New Year's resolutions for 2026?

A. I don't make New Year's resolutions anymore. I set a few goals, but they are private.
 
9) What was the first thing to make you laugh in 2026?

A. Alexa made me laugh with her reaction to my request to help me build a shrinking ray gun so I could go around and make people the size of atoms. At first, she thought I said, "shrieking ray gun" and she was confused as to why I would want that. And no, she can't build a shrinking ray gun. Or a weather control machine, or a time machine. She also can't build a transporter. Yes, I have asked. I ask her silly things all the time.

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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: Bye Bye

Saturday 9: Bye Bye Bye (2000)

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

This song was chosen because it's time to say goodbye to 2025.

Thanks for participating in Saturday 9 this year.

1) In this song, a man predicts his lover will start an argument. Is there anyone in your life who can be quarrelsome?

A. I have removed most of the quarrelsome people I know from my life.

2) He says he's had it, he's checking out and signing off. Can you think of a time you were glad you walked away from something?

A. I walked away from working for lawyers and into freelance writing, and I was ever so glad I did that. Lawyers are difficult to work for.

3) This week's song was performed by the band NSYNC. The group was formed in Orlando, FL, which is world famous as home to Walt Disney World. Today there are 12 Disney theme parks located around the globe. Have you ever visited one of these Magic Kingdoms?

A. I have been to the park in Orlando, FL once, in 1993.

4) They made a celebrity appearance on The Simpsons. What's your all-time favorite cartoon show?

A. Bugs Bunny, of course. I think it's also called Looney Tunes.

5) In 2000, the year "Bye Bye Bye" was popular, Brad Pitt was named People's Sexiest Man Alive. Are you crushing on anyone right now?

A. I am not crushing on anyone other than my husband at the moment.

Let's look back on 2025 . . . 

6) What's the farthest from home you traveled in 2025?

A. I think I made it to the Walmart on the far side of the city a couple of times.

7) What was the biggest purchase that you made in 2025?

A. I am not at liberty to say. 

8) What was your favorite book of 2025?

A. I am having a hard time choosing just one. These are few I read that I really liked: The Grey Wolf, by Louise Penny, A Sorceress Comes to Call, by T. Kingfisher, Strange Practice, by Vivian Shaw, The Griffin Sisters Greatest Hits, by Jennifer Weiner, The City of Brass, by S.A. Chakraborty.

9) What are you looking forward to most in 2026?

A. Getting rid of 2025, I think. But oh, I have concert tickets to see Melissa Etheridge, finally. Yay!

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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: Happy Holidays

SATURDAY 9: HAPPY HOLIDAYS

From the archives

1. As you can see, when Sam Winters (the blog meme author) was a little girl, she loved giving her annual wish list to Santa. If you could ask Santa for anything at all, right now, what would it be?

A. The things I want are not the things Santa can bring. He can't bring world peace, or end hunger and disease, or stop greed. But he can bring me a box of milk chocolate covered cherries.

2. Are you currently on the Naughty or Nice list? How did you get there?

A. I hope I am on the nice list. To my knowledge, I haven't done anything naughty. I have donated to the local food bank and other charities. I've tried to stop swearing, even.

3. Are you traveling this Christmas? If so, are you going by car, plane or train?

A. I am not traveling.

4. Did you ship any gifts to friends and family this year? If yes, which one traveled the farthest?

A. I sent a gift to my friend in England, but that went via Amazon in England, so I don't know if that counts.

5. Did you buy yourself a gift this year?

A. I did not buy myself a gift this year.

6. Which do you prefer: candy canes or gingerbread?

A. Gingerbread.

7. Can you see any holiday decorations from where you're sitting now?

A. No. They are in the other room.

8. What's your favorite winter beverage?

A. I used to enjoy hot apple cider, back before I had ulcers.

9. Share a memory from last Christmas.

A. Last Christmas I was sick with an ear infection but still managed to carry off the holiday. It was more about the things I found to give than the things I received, although my stepmother did give me my mother's old button box, which I treasure.

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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: First Christmas

Saturday 9: First Christmas (2024)

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

I'd never heard this song before. It's quite lovely.

1) The song mentions snowmen and snow on a windowpane. Has it snowed near you yet?

A. Oh yes. We've had two snows already, one piling on the other. It's still on the ground.

2) Diane Keaton sings that hearing "I'll Be Home for Christmas" makes her miss someone she loved who won't be coming home at all. Is there a Christmas song that reminds you of a loved one?

A. Not really, no.

 

3) After the song was first released for Christmas 2024, Diane said she appreciated how many people posted on her Instagram, sharing their "First Christmas journeys," explaining how they navigated the first holiday season without a special someone. What have you recently posted on social media (other than this blog post)?

A. My blog is mostly where I post. On Facebook, I posted a press release from the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Because I once was a journalist and a historian, and that's what I do.

 

4) Diane appeared in the Broadway musical Hair and sang in movies like Annie Hall and The First Wives Club. Still, she didn't consider herself "much of a singer." How about you? What's something you do, even though you're not completely comfortable doing it?

A. Does going out in public count? I'm not comfortable with that anymore. But I do it. I also don't consider myself "much of a singer" yet I have YouTube videos up of myself singing along with my guitar.

 

5) This was Diane's first and, sadly, her only record. She was nervous doing it, but it helped that the lyrics was written by her friend, Carole Bayer Sager, and that both Carole and her writing partner, Jonas Myrin, were with Diane in the studio. Tell us about a friend who came through for you.

A. Oh, my friend Brenda came through for me many times, especially when my mother passed away. Her mother died the same year, and we sort of helped each other through those difficult days. Brenda was a very quiet and very secretive person who held her cards so close to her vest they nearly disappeared from view. Alas, she passed away in 2021. I miss her.

6) After her 75th birthday, Diane said she was excited that new ventures were coming her way, and she found herself saying "yes" more often. In addition to recording this week's song, she accepted an unexpected offer from Look Optic to design eyewear. Have you recently tried something you've never done before? Or what's something you'd like to try?

A. I have tried to knit and crochet and am a poor student when it comes to those crafts. I'd like to try to draw and color with colored pencil or perhaps acrylic; I could never do oils because of the odor, but I would like to be able to draw. I took a couple of art courses in college and did OK, but fortunately I had a teacher who graded on effort, not on results, because I never did produce anything worthwhile.

 

Now for some questions about the holiday season ...

7) Do you display the holiday cards you receive?

A. I do. I tape them to a wall. Now there are just a few, but back in the day, like 30 years ago, I would receive so many cards that not only did I tape them to the wall, I ran them on a string and down the front of closet doors. I used to send out about 200 cards. Now my list is down to 40, and they are mostly my husband's distant cousins.

8) This is a big time of year for necklaces, hats, and headbands decorated with jingle bells. Will you be wearing any bells this season?

A. I do not wear bells.

 

9) The website Morning Save included these three items on their list of this season's popular gifts. Would you rather receive: a. cup holder/phone mount for your car; b. sherpa lined clog slippers; c. set of three stainless paring knives with rosemary green plastic handles?

A. I would rather have the knives. I have a hard time keeping sharp knives around the house.

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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.