Saturday 9: Blueberry Hill

Saturday 9: Blueberry Hill (1956)

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

This month Saturday 9 will be tasty, featuring songs with food in the title.

1) Fats Domino sings about a hill named for blueberries. According to the Old Farmers Almanac, blueberries can grow just about anywhere in North America, as long as they have plenty of direct sunlight. Do you have a garden?

A. We do have a garden, but it has not been the most productive this year. Somehow my husband planted yellow zucchini instead of summer squash. I am not a fan of yellow zucchini. They don't seem to have much taste or eye appeal. 

2) Blueberries are low in calories and rich in fiber. Are they a regular part of your diet? 

A. They are not, but they should be.

3) They also have a high moisture content. Staying hydrated is important to human health. Do you drink the standard recommended 8 glasses of water every day?

A. I do.

4) Fats originally had a big hit with "Blueberry Hill" in 1956, and then enjoyed the record's renewed popularity in the mid-70s, when "Blueberry Hill" was often referenced as Richie Cunningham's favorite song. Without looking it up, do you remember what show Richie Cunningham was on? (Extra non-existent Saturday 9 points if you can also name the actor who played Richie.)

A. Richie Cunningham was the name of the son on Happy Days. He was played by Ron Howard, also known as Opie on The Andy Griffith Show.

5) Born Antoine Domino, he took the name "Fats" not just because of his physique. Growing up, jazz pianist Fats Waller was one of his heroes. If you were to adopt the first name of someone you admire, what would we call you?

A. Hillary.

6) Despite his warm and friendly stage persona, Fats was shy around strangers and hated giving interviews. Tell us about something you did only because it was part of your job, not because you enjoyed it.

A. When I began working as a "secretary," I was supposed to make coffee in the mornings. I do not drink coffee. Nor did I consider it something that should be part of someone's job. If somebody wants coffee, they can make their own coffee. But I was told to do it, so I made coffee. After about a week of my coffee, I was excused from coffee-making duty.

7) In 1956, when this record was topping the charts, the Olympics were held in Melbourne. Have you ever been to the land down under?

A. No, I have not.

8) The star of the 1956 Olympics was Austrian Toni Sailer, who won all three gold medals in Alpine skiing. Do you prefer snow skiing, water skiing, or just watching other people ski?

A. I went water skiing once. It wasn't my thing. I don't care what other people do.

9) Random question: Do you believe everyone has a jealous streak?

A. I think so, yes. It may be over different things, but I think most people become jealous over something or another. Maybe it's money, maybe it's time, maybe it's position, power, etc. Maybe it's just because you can be around dogs and I can't because of my allergies and asthma. Jealousy comes in many forms.

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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: Sugar, Sugar

 

Saturday 9: Sugar, Sugar (1969)

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

This month Saturday 9 will be tasty, featuring songs with food in the title.

*Here is where I confess I still have this album.*

1) This week's song is credited to The Archies, a band that never actually existed. The song is performed by singer Ron Dante and studio musicians and backup singers hired on behalf of the five members of the popular Saturday morning Archie Show. Were you a fan of this animated series?

A. I would have been in 1st grade when this show was on, so I barely remember it, but I do remember it. I think, however, I could only watch it when I spent the night at my grandmother's house. At my house, we could only get one or two channels. She could get all three plus PBS!

2) Archie was Archibald Andrews, a character first introduced in the 1941 comic strip. Archie was the linchpin, the leader of the band, and the center of his social group. Tell us about one of the popular kids from your school days.

A. I stayed away from the popular kids in school, as I wasn't one of them. I was a nerd who made straight As. But let me think. Ah, I know! Jodi E. He was always funny. Kind of short, red hair, made everyone laugh all the time. I wonder what he's doing these days. 

3) The Archies' drummer was Jughead Jones. He was smart, funny, and had a fondness for headwear. Do you often wear hats or caps?

A. Not anymore. I used to wear hats back in my younger days, especially in high school, and I was married in a hat with a veil behind it, I refused to cover my face with a veil.

4) Reggie was the lead singer and bass player. He was a gifted athlete who liked to come in first. If he couldn't win with his natural talents, he was not above cheating. Have you ever cheated in a friendly game?

A. I imagine I have but I can't think of anything right off. Does turning on the God-Mode so you can get through a level in a video game count?

5) Blonde Betty Cooper was on the tambourine. Her hobbies include playing baseball, caring for her cat, and helping Archie work on his car. Tell us three of your favorite pastimes.

A. My favorite three pastimes include writing, playing or listening to music, and reading.

6) Raven-haired Veronica Lodge was the keyboardist and joined Betty for backup vocals. She was a fashion plate, known and loved by Riverdale store owners because of her willingness to spend big bucks to stay on trend. What's the latest thing you've added to your wardrobe?

A. I bought some tops and a single pair of pants a while back. When I came home and washed the pants and went to wear them, I realized that one leg is about an inch longer than the other. I didn't notice it when I tried them on in the store, but it is certainly noticeable at home. They will have to be wear-around-the-house pants unless I decide to rehem them.

7) The biggest news story of 1969 was one of the biggest stories in history. On July 21, man first stepped onto the moon. Without looking it up, do you remember the astronaut's name?

A. Neal Armstrong.

8) Also in 1969, Triple H was born and today he's in the WWE Hall of Fame. Do you follow professional wrestling?

A. I do not follow professional wrestling. In my younger days, my grandfather would stop whatever he was doing on Saturdays to sit down and watch wrestling, though, and I would watch it with him sometimes. I remember some loud dude named Rick Flair.

9) Random question – Would you prefer to be: a) super successful in business or b) a politician elected to an influential office or c) a champion athlete?

A. Geez. Is there a D? Of the three I would choose being super successful in business. I could be super successful in the writing business since it doesn't specify what kind of business.

BONUS #10: Mister Linky has become extremely hard to navigate, and no one is home at the Help Desk. How do you feel about leaving your link in the comments?

A. This does seem to have become an issue, doesn't it. I've been looking into it and there doesn't seem to be another option that works like Mr. Linky (and is free). Apparently, there is some way to make Google Docs create a form that you can use that goes to a spreadsheet or something or another, but it was so complicated I didn't try it.

As for leaving the link in the comments, it is probably the easiest thing. If it is all that's available, then I don't have a problem with it.

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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: Coconut

 

Saturday 9: Coconut (1971)

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

This month Saturday 9 will be tasty, featuring songs with food in the title. (This song makes me think of the movie Practical Magic.)

1) This song is about a woman who complains of a belly ache. How's your tummy this morning?

A. My tummy is about like it always is. Thanks for asking.

2) She responds to this malady by calling the doctor. What if you chose to address the problem yourself? Are there currently any OTC digestive aids in your medicine chest? 

A. I take medicine for my stomach every day. I have acid reflux. Sometimes I have to supplement that with a little OTC medicine. I have also found apple cider vinegar gummies helpful.

3) Coconut was once a popular ice cream flavor, but no more. It's not on the list of top sellers at Baskin Robbins or Cold Stone. When you last had ice cream, what flavor was it?

A. I don't eat ice cream.

4) Coconut remains popular in baking. It's easy to find recipes for coconut pie, coconut cheesecake, coconut cookies . . . . you get the idea. Have you recently tried a new recipe? If yes, how did it turn out?

A. The last recipe I made was a squash casserole. It wasn't exactly a new recipe to me, but I was using yellow zucchini instead of yellow summer squash. It was ok.

5) This week's featured artist, Harry Nilsson, was a well-known free spirit. He liked to party and had a reputation for not adhering to a schedule. Therefore, it's a little surprising that one of his first jobs was in the conservative atmosphere of a small bank. Do you prefer a more structured workplace?

A. I always did well with deadlines when I worked for the newspaper. I like a little structure, but I need a little freedom, too.

6) Harry met Micky Dolenz when The Monkees recorded his song, "Cuddly Toy" and they became fast and life-long friends. Can you think of someone you met and quickly "clicked" with?

A. Yes, one of my dearest friends today is someone I met and "clicked" with almost immediately.

7) In 1971, when this song was on the radio, detective shows were popular on TV. Mannix, Ironside and Cannon were all in the Top 20. Do you think you'd make a good private investigator?

A. I think I probably would make a good PI. Old, overweight dowdy housewife? Who'd think she was taking pictures of infidelity or insurance fraud?

8) England's Princess Anne turned 21 in 1971, and the occasion was commemorated with an official portrait taken by fashion photographer Norman Parkinson. Who took the most recent photo of you?

A. I have no idea. It was a probably a selfie with my husband.

9) Random question: You can redecorate any one room in your home, money is no object. But only one room. Which room do you pick?

A. I would pick the great room, which is really three rooms in one. That way I would get a new kitchen, a new dining area, and a new living room, because all three are in one large room. I think they call this open space living now but it was a great room 38 years ago. 

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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: Special Day

Saturday 9: This Is a Very Special Day (1953)

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

1) In this song, Peggy sings that she feels good enough to climb a hill. Will you be doing anything athletic today?

A. I am not very athletic. I suspect stripping the bed and changing the linens might be the extent of my athletic prowess on this Saturday.

2) However, she was also tempted to climb back in bed. Is a nap in your plans for today?

A. I very seldom nap. My husband says I should nap, it would make me feel better. 

3) She tells us that she looked in the mirror and told herself it was time to "lose the blues." Do you ever speak out loud to yourself?

A. I talk to myself all the time and always have. Only now I might utter something like "seriously" under my breath and have my cell phone perk up and go "Hmm?"

4) Peggy wrote this song for the 1953 remake of The Jazz Singer. She performs it in the movie, too. In the 1950s, female singer-songwriters were unusual, but not so today. Can you think of another woman who not only sings but writes her own material?

A. Melissa Etheridge, Sheryl Crow, Carole King.

5) Her co-star in the film was Danny Thomas. Today he is best remembered as a philanthropist and founder of St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, but he was quite a star in his day. He appeared in nightclubs and movie musicals and, from 1954 to 1963, had his own sitcom. Do you know the show?

A. I think it was called The Danny Thomas Show, wasn't it? But I don't recall watching it. And I'm not sure if that's right.

6) When Peggy Lee was trying to break into show business, she supported herself as a short order cook. She was required to turn orders around quickly. Are you fast and efficient in the kitchen?

A. I dislike cooking, but I can get a meal on the table in a hurry if I have to.

7) Just when her career started to take off, Peggy had to take a break when she had her tonsils removed. Do you still have your tonsils?

A. I had my tonsils removed in 1994, when I was 31 years old, and it was incredibly painful and a difficult recovery.

8) In 1953, when this record was released, Matchbox Cars were introduced and they remain popular today. Did you ever play with Matchbox Cars?

A. Yes, I played with Matchbox Cars, along with Hot Wheels.

9) Random question: You're walking past a filthy puddle. Floating on top you see a dead bug, a cigarette butt, and a $1 bill. Would you bend over and rescue the dollar?

A. If I can flip it out of the puddle with my foot and I have a tissue in my purse with which to pick it up, maybe.

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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: Kung Fu Fighting

Saturday 9: Kung Fu Fighting (1974)

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

I always wanted to know why everyone was Kung Fu fighting when I heard this song.

1) Have you ever taken a martial arts class?

A. Once. I went to see if it was something I would like. I did not. I did, however, complete a self-defense course offered at the local sheriff's office about 30 years ago. I'm not sure that counts as martial arts, but I got to beat up a guy who was dressed up as puffy marshmallow.

2) In this song, Carl Edwards sings about funky Chinatown. Many cities – including San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Vancouver, London and Antwerp – have a Chinatown. Have you ever visited Chinatown?

A. I have been to Chinatown in New York, a very long time ago, where I had the best ever sweet and sour shrimp known to man.

3) Many Chinese restaurants give out fortune cookies. Can you recall one of your fortunes?

A. Ha. We ate Chinese just last week, and I'd stuck the fortune cookie in my purse and forgot about it. Let's see what we have here: "Your positive energy will attract an abundance of blessings." Otherwise, no, I don't remember my other fortunes. They're like horoscopes, you read them, you laugh, you move on.

4) This week's featured artist, Carl Edwards, was born in Jamaica, spent his childhood in the US, and relocated to England. Have you ever lived abroad? 

A. I have visited abroad but I have never lived abroad.

5) In 1974 he became the first Jamaican to have a #1 hit in the US with this song. Have you been to Jamaica?

A. I have never been to Jamaica.

6) When this week's song was on the charts, ABC TV had a hit with the show Kung Fu. Today it's available to stream. Were you a fan?

A. I remember watching it, but I was like, nine years old. I don't recall being a big fan of the show but we only received two TV channels at home so we watched whatever was on.

7) Also in 1974, the FIFA World Cup was played in West Germany. Have you been following the FIFA World Cup this year?

A. I have not followed this sport ever, including this year.

8) Two of 1974's most popular toys were popular with adults, too. Would you prefer a Rubik's Cube or a Magic 8 Ball?

A. I would prefer a Rubik's Cube. I had one a long time ago and got to where I could solve it in 2 minutes. I doubt I can remember how to do it now, though.

9) Random question: Have you ever cut someone else's hair?

A. I have not. I have cut my own hair (very badly) but not anyone else's. 

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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: There'll Be Some Changes Made

Saturday 9: There'll Be Some Changes Made (1962)

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

1) In this song, Ann-Margret sings that she's going to change her way of living. If you could simply snap your fingers and change something in your life, what would it be?

A. A big re-do of the room I use as my "office" even though I don't need an office anymore. It still looks like it did when I was a journalist. I've not had the heart to change it.

2) She tells us she's going to change her name. Have you ever changed your name, or asked people to refer to you differently? (Example: "Don't call me Betty anymore. I want to be Elizabeth.")

A. Yes, I have. I prefer to be called by my given name, not a nickname I was given when I was a child. Some people, however, are stubborn and controlling and think they have the right to determine what I am called. They do not.

3) Ann-Margret was born Ann-Margret Olsson in Sweden and when was 5, her family moved to Winnetka, Illinois. She is fluent in both Swedish and English. When did you last converse in a language other than English?

A. Every now and then when a friend who knows a little Spanish calls, I answer in Spanish and we manage, "Hola, como estas?" "Muy bein, et tu" "Muy bien." And that's about it.

4) Olivia Newton-John was a big Ann-Margret fan. When she was cast in the movie Grease, Olivia asked that her character's name be changed from "Sandy Dumbrowski" to "Sandy Olsson" in tribute. Grease is one of the most profitable movies ever made. Have you seen it more than once?

A. I have seen it many times. I saw it originally at the theater and I've watched it on TV.

5) Ann-Margret celebrated her 85th birthday earlier this year. Back in 2024, Ann-Margret told a reporter that she planned to celebrate her 83rd birthday with a spin on her motorcycle, a lavender Harley-Davidson. "I love speed," she explained. Do you always observe the speed limit? Or have you been known to zip along a little faster?

A. I have been known to have a lead foot on occasion. We have new speed trap cameras out along the interstate so I'm trying to watch that now. Cruise control helps.

6) This week's song was written in 1921 and over the last 100+ years it's been recorded more than 400 times. Before today, had you heard it?

A. I don't think so.

7) The lyrics were written by William Weldon Higgins, who was better known as vaudeville comic Billy Higgins. When did you most recently laugh out loud?

A. Oh, I'm sure it was sometime this past week, but I don't remember an actual time.

8) The music was composed by William Overstreet. In addition to writing music, he was a respected director at Chicago's Grand Theater. When did you last see a live performance (concert, play, etc.)?

A. The last live performance I saw was in April, when I saw Melissa Etheridge in concert. Great concert, and she hugged me at the end!

9) Random question: Do you have more or less than $20 cash in your wallet right now?

A. I had to look, but I have a little more than $20 in my wallet, if you count the change.

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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: God Bless America

Saturday 9: God Bless America 

Unfamiliar with Connie Francis' version of this song? Hear it here.

It's Independence Day!

1) Irving Berlin's lyrics celebrate our mountains, prairies, and oceans. Which of these geographical features is nearest your home?

A. Mountains. The lovely rolling Blue Ridge Mountains and the Alleghanies.

2) Berlin donated his royalties from "God Bless America" to the Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts of America. Were you ever a Scout?

A. My mother was a Girl Scout, but I was never able to join the club. My mother worked and I had no way to get home from meetings.

 

3) While this week's song has been recorded many times, we're concentrating on Connie Francis' 1959 version. It was never intended to be a hit, released as the B-side to her popular "Among My Souvenirs." But it took off when it was played at school rallies and patriotic events. Do you know all the lyrics to "God Bless America?" Could you sing along with Connie?

A. I could sing most of it. Sheet music would be nice.

4) After she wrote her autobiography, Connie said she wanted Valerie Bertinelli to play her in the movie. Even though Valerie isn't known for her singing, Connie liked that they were both Italian-American and 5'5". If we made a movie of your life, who should play you?

A. Kathy Bates.

 

5) Connie had a passionate romance with Bobby Darin, and their relationship is included in the Broadway show about Bobby's life, Just In Time. While Connie expressed her support for the production, she never saw the show because hip problems made flying difficult. How about you? Are you dealing with any aches or pains today?

A. Nothing out of the ordinary. I have my constant chronic abdominal pain, and I have pain in my shoulder from my impingement, but nothing I can't deal with.

 

6) The Fourth of July means we're in the middle of summer. Are you careful about applying sunscreen?

A. I am not outside enough to worry about it much. I generally get a farmer's tan (from just above my elbow to my hands) but I don't sit in the sun.

7) More beer is purchased for the 4th of July than any other holiday. What beverage will be served with your July 4th meal?

A. It won't be beer. I imagine it will be tea and water.

 

8) Emergency rooms expect an increase over the July 4th holiday. The most common causes are sports injuries (like jammed wrists and wrenched knees) and the unwise use of home fireworks. Have you been to the ER or Urgent Care during 2026?

A. I have not been to either the ER or Urgent Care this year.

9) New York is home to Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest every year on the 4th. Will hot dogs be consumed in your household this weekend?

A. Yes, hot dogs are on the menu.

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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: Cadillac Ranch

Saturday 9: Cadillac Ranch (1981)

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

1) In this song, Bruce Springsteen sings about taking his father and his aunt to see The Cadillac Ranch. Have you recently taken a road trip? If yes, where did you go?

A. I have not taken a road trip recently, more's the pity, unless one can call a drive into the city to see doctors road trips.

2) The Cadillac Ranch is real. It's an outdoor art installation in Amarillo, TX. Tell us about a statue, mural, or other piece of outdoor art in your community. 

A. Virginia has these LOVE signs all over the place. There are two, maybe three, just in my county alone. One is over at the Greenfield Sports Complex, and the other is painted on the side of a building in the county seat. I believe there is at least one more over on the other end of the county, but don't hold me to it.

The "Love" sign at Botetourt Center at Greenfield (courtesy Botetourtva.gov)

Because Virginia is for Lovers, after all. (One of the best pieces of state advertising ever.)

3) Not only is Bruce singing about a real place, he mentions three real people. The first is "James Dean in his Mercury 49." That refers to the 1949 Mercury driven by James Dean in his first starring role, Rebel Without a Cause. Though he remains a legendary star, Dean made only three movies before his death at age 24. Have you seen any of his films?

A. I probably have but I don't remember them. 

4) The second is "Junior Johnson runnin' through the woods of Caroline." Junior Johnson was a folk hero, famous as a NASCAR driver and notorious for running moonshine through North Carolina. He was the inspiration for "Midnite Moon," an animated old Ford in the 2017 Disney movie Cars 3. What Disney movie did you enjoy when you were growing up?

A. I don't recall many Disney movies. I do remember "The Wonderful World of Disney" that came on every weekend, with the castle with fireworks and Tinkerbell doing a little spell over it before the show appeared. I'm sure I saw Disney movies, but apparently, they didn't stick.

5) The third man Bruce sings about is "Burt Reynolds and his black Trans Am." This is a reference to Burt's biggest hit, 1977's Smokey and the Bandit. Burt also had success as a restaurateur. He co-owned Burt and Jack's, a popular steakhouse at Port Everglades, right on the water. Tell us about a restaurant that offered both good food and a memorable view.

A. The Peaks of Otter Restaurant in Bedford off the Blue Ridge Parkway offers good food and a lovely view of a pond and mountain tops.

6) For decades, Cadillac was the gold standard of luxury. For example, an eatery referred to as "the Cadillac of restaurants" would be best or most prestigious. Think about your neighborhood. Tell us about a restaurant, hotel or business that is "the Cadillac" of your community.

A. I'm not sure we have a "Cadillac" of my community. I think we have a lot of Volkswagons and Toyotas. It's a pretty county, though, once you get out of the southern end where the growth is, with farms, fields, and forest offering up many lovely views and vistas.

7) Since he's been singing about America and cars for decades, it should come as no surprise that Bruce Springsteen has a collection of classic American cars. For the cover of his autobiography, he chose a photo of himself leaning on his favorite, a 1960 Corvette convertible. Think about your favorite photo of yourself. What are you doing?

A. A photo of me when I played my guitar when I was a teenager ties with one when I was getting married.

8) In 1981, when Bruce released this recording, Dolly Parton had a hit with "9 to 5." What's your favorite Dolly Parton song?

A. Love is Like a Butterfly. 

9) Random question: When did you last DIY and fix something around your home or yard?

A. We redid the garden this spring a little bit. I guess that counts.

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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: The Men in My Little Girl's Life

Saturday 9: The Men in My Little Girl's Life (1965)

 

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

1) In this song, a father shares the story of his daughter's life through first the boys, then the men, she brought home. The first is Rod, a little kid who wants to play in the backyard. Who were your playmates when you were young? Did you find it more fun to have them over to your home, or to go to theirs?

A. The kids I played with were my uncles, one of whom was four years older than I and the other was a year younger than I, a boy named Bruce who lived up the street when I was very young, and later a boy named Alan and a girl named Trudy. Mostly they came to my house, although I spent a good deal of time at Alan's house during that period. His older sister looked after us.

2) Then his daughter asked if Lee could carry her books on the walk to/from school. During your junior high years, how did you travel to school (bus, bicycle, car pool, shoe leather)?

A. I rode a bus to school until I turned 16 and could drive. My bus ride was about an hour long, both ways.

 

3) Throughout this song, the father recalls that his daughter alternately called him "Daddy," "Dad," "Popsie," "Pop" and "Father." How did/do you address your father?

A. I called him Dad.

 

4) The song ends with the daughter asking her father to babysit. When did you last look after someone else's child?

A. I haven't looked after someone else's child for decades.

 

5) This record was a Top 10 hit in the US and it made the Top 20 in Canada. Much of its success was attributed to Mike Douglas' TV popularity. From 1965 to 1981, he hosted a daytime talk show. Do you watch much daytime TV?

A. I do not watch much daytime TV. I remember the Mike Douglas show, though. When I was sick, I watched TV at my grandmother's house. 

6) Mike Douglas was a father himself. He had three daughters, including twins. Are there twins in your family? 

A. There are no twins in my family.

 

Now about Father's Day ... 

 

7) Retail chains like O'Reilly Auto Parts, Auto Zone and Jiffy Lube are all promoting gift cards and car-related gifts for Father's Day. If you got a gift card from one of those stores, how would you upgrade your ride?

A. I would probably get some new floor mats and one of those sun stopper things you put in the windshield to keep the car from getting too hot in the summer.

 

8) Dick's Sporting Goods also enjoys a spike in gift card sales around Father's Day. Have you more recently given or received a gift card?

A. I recently received one. 

9) In days gone by, ties were the #1 Father's Day gift. But as today's workplace has become more casual, fragrance has taken over the top spot. Dove Men+Care offers gift sets with shampoo/conditioner, body wash and antiperspirant. Think about your shower routine. Are your shampoo, body wash and antiperspirant all the same brand or the same scent?

A. All of my items are unscented, but different brands. I use unscented Dove sensitive skin soap and Vanicreme shampoo and conditioner. My deodorant is unscented Sure.

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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: Accidentally in Love

Saturday 9: Accidentally in Love (2004)

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

1) In the video for this song, a young man dances alone in the kitchen while making breakfast for his lady love. When no one's looking, do you often bust a move?

A. Well, I might do a little hop. I don't know that I even know how to "bust a move." I was never much of a dancer.

2) "Accidentally in Love" was featured in the animated movie Shrek 2.  In this video, a plushie from the movie is shown on their bed. Do you have any plush toys in your bedroom?

A. I do not have any plush toys in the bedroom. I think the only plush toys I have are Christmas ones that are stowed in the closet.

3) The lyrics liken falling in love to strawberry ice cream that he just can't resist. What sweet treat would hit the spot right now? 

A. How about a hot fudge sundae, no nuts, please.

4) He sings about lightning. Astraphobia is the fear of thunderstorms. Have you ever suffered from astraphobia?

A. I like thunderstorms. I like to watch them, I like to try to photograph lightning (I have yet to succeed), I like the noise of thunder. I remember sitting on the back stoop with my maternal grandfather and watching a storm roll across, the lightning searing the sky, him sitting there smelling of cigarettes and aftershave, the air full of the scent of earthy rain that hadn't reached us. 

5) This song is about falling in love when he wasn't looking for it. Has this ever happened to you? Or have you usually found romance while actively seeking a partner (dating sites, blind dates, etc.)? 

A. I fell in love watching a high school football game and married the guy. I wasn't looking for it at the time. I was only 19. 

6) This week's artists, The Counting Crows, got their start in San Francisco. A famous quote, often attributed to Mark Twain, says, "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco." How has the summer weather been where you are?

A. We are in a drought. It has been too warm and too dry. The end of this week of June has been very hot and muggy, with a few thunderstorms to help break up the day.

7) In 2004, when this song was popular, Mark Zuckerberg launched Facebook. Have you checked Facebook today?

A. I have checked Facebook today. I read the news today, oh boy. We are bombing in Iran, data centers in the plan. A celebration on the grass, a reflecting pool, a deep morass. I read the news today, oh boy.

8) Also in 2004, we lost President Ronald Reagan. Before entering politics, he had a decades-long career in Hollywood and appeared in 53 films. Have you ever seen a Ronald Reagan movie?

A. I probably have seen a movie with the former president in it, but I don't recall it specifically. Hollywood has a lot to answer for.

9) Random question: Describe your favorite pajamas.

A. I don't have a pair of favorite pajamas. I have nightgowns that I sleep in. I prefer the cotton ones to other material.

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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: For You

Saturday 9: For You (1963)

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

1) In this song, Rick Nelson tells us he'd give his girl the stars from sky or a string of pearls. Have you more recently given or received a gift? What was it?

A. I recently received a gift. It was two fantasy books.

2) By the time this record was released, Rick was already a show business veteran. He had been a regular on his family's sitcom, The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, since it began airing on radio when he was just 8. Most of us weren't child performers but many of us had chores around the house. When you were young, did your parents give you an allowance?

A. My parents did not give me an allowance. They just sometimes gave me money. I had to do the chores regardless.

3) The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet moved to TV, where fans saw Rick grow into a teen who drove a 1932 Roadster. The car really belonged to Tony La Masa, who collected classic cars and rented them out to TV and movie producers. Have you ever earned or raised money with your hobby?

A. I used to play guitar in a cover band when I was in high school. That was how I earned money throughout those years instead of driving into the city to sling hash or whatever. 

4) Paul McCartney has called Rick Nelson an "underrated singer who could really carry a song" and said Rick was one of his influences. Who do you believe you have influenced, professionally or personally?

A. I don't know. When I was working with the newspaper, I could write articles that would influence people to give donations to needy causes. 

5)  This week's song was already an oldie by the time Rick performed it. "For You" was recorded the first time by Casa Loma Orchestra in 1933. In those days, most records were 78 rpm discs, thick and usually only able to hold 3 to 5 minutes of sound per side. Most record companies stopped producing them in the 1950s. Have you ever seen a "78?" 

A. I have indeed seen a "78" record. I have played them, too, on an old Victrola.

 

6) The lyrics to "For You" were written by Al Dubin. After Al left college, he supported himself as a singing waiter. That's really two jobs in one. Which would you do better at: singer or server?

A. In my younger days I could have been a singer, perhaps. My voice is too thin now.

 

7) The music was written by Joe Burke, whose last hit song was "Rambling Rose," recorded in 1948 by Perry Como. Have you ever heard of Perry Como?

A. I have indeed heard of Perry Como.

8) In 1963, when Ricky's recording was on the charts, the Zip Code was introduced. How many different Zips have you lived in?

A. I have lived in three zip codes and possibly was alive when there were no zip codes.

 

9) Random question: When you were in high school, were you taller or shorter than your classmates? Or were you the average height?

A. I have always been short but growing up I felt like I was keeping up with everyone else until high school.

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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: Mystical Magical

Saturday 9: Mystical Magical (2025)

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

1) This week's song is about a new love affair, and Benson Boone bounces between frustration and optimism when he thinks about it. Does anything inspire your mixed emotions these days?

A. The local government brings out mixed emotions at present. We have a data center coming in directly behind us, in what was initially an industrial park. I have many mixed emotions about that. We recently learned that the electrical lines that cross our farm will have to be upgraded in preparation for the power the data center will need. That means the power company will be disturbing the cattle, tearing up pastureland, etc. The data center is not the "latest and greatest" in technology; it is a water hog, and that's a concern.

2) The lyrics mention "moonbeam ice cream," which is something Benson just made up. Last summer, when this week's song became popular, ice cream shops were inspired to create flavors with that name. What's your favorite ice cream flavor, and will you take that in a cup or cone?

A. My favorite ice cream is not a flavor, it's a specialty, and it's a hot fudge sundae (no nuts). I haven't had one since I was about 12 years old because that's when we discovered I'm allergic to milk. Eating one is on my bucket list. Maybe it'll be the last thing I do.

 

3) He sings that "once you know" about a love like this, "you know." Tell us about something you had to experience to fully understand.

A. Surgeries are things one must experience in order to fully understand. The doctor can stand there all day long and tell you you'll be up and around in three days and back to work in five, but until you've actually had the operation, all that is is a lot of talk. Nobody reacts the same to having their body cut open. And it hurts a lot more than they let on, too.

 

4) He composed this song at the piano. Do you play piano?

A. I can piddle at the piano, same as I can most other instruments. I can make chords and play a bit, but I would not say that I actually "play" the piano, at least, not in the same way I play the guitar.

5) He first sang in public at a high school talent show, which he only entered on a dare. Can you recall any dares from your junior high or high school days? 

A. I was dared to skip band class several times and did, often enough that the band director finally reported me to the principal and I had "in school suspension" which basically meant I spent an hour in a play-room with other kids who also were misbehaving. I remember doing my homework there. My teachers were appalled because I was a straight-A student and straight-A students didn't get "in school suspension." 

6) Benson was a good high school athlete and competed in diving at the state level. Can you execute a dive off the diving board?

A. I could manage a belly flop, I suppose, but certainly nothing graceful. I used to be able to, when I was young and lithe, but those days are long gone.

7) When he was 18, Boone auditioned for American Idol. What were you up to when you were 18?

A. When I was 18, I was working a job in the city, dating a few guys here and there, and taking college courses at the community college.

  

8) Benson has a dog named Max. He's not alone in this. "Max" is one of the most popular pet names in the US today. Have you ever known anyone (furry or otherwise) named Max?

A. I do not recall ever knowing a Max. The only Max I am familiar with is Mad Max from the movies. Oh, wait, I did know a Max. My old doctor's name was Max. Max Bertholf. He was such a nice man and a very good doctor. He quit practicing about 2004 or so. I did an article on his retirement for the newspaper. I never called him Max, though. I called him Dr. B.

 

9) Random question: If we knocked on your door on one of your lazy, stay-at-home days, what would we likely find you wearing?

A. You would find me wearing a t-shirt, jeans, and sneakers. I would also have on a watch, earrings, and my glasses.

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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.