Meme Catch-Up
Mar. 1st, 2010 09:32 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
tj_dragonbladeApparently that 'Words!' meme is still going around, and has now evolved to commenting with the phrase 'Curiouser and curiouser' to indicate that one would like to play. Leave such a comment if you like, and I'll give you five words that I associate with you, which you can then post in your journal and talk about.
Combining lists from![[livejournal.com profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/external/lj-userinfo.gif)
aliaswestgate and nouvellebrielle on account of slight overlap. Also, a couple of these words popped up in an earlier round so some of this may sound somewhat familiar. ^_^;
Dragon
Nnnnnnnh, dragons. *_* They've always been 'cool', and something that resonates with me on a fairly deep level. I get frustrated still in Western entertainment running into dragon stereotypes (evil, fearsome, beastly monster images and the tiresome slay-the-dragon-for-glory! motif), though it's admittedly not as bad as it used to be. Dragons to me have always been a noble species, honorable and awe-inspiring, certainly capable of being terrifying but generally not simply for the sake of it. In recent years I've gravitated more toward a preference for Eastern dragons, probably because the Eastern view of dragons seems more in line with my own perceptions. Also, dragons in general are incredibly sexy *cough*. There's great appeal in the predatory, other-than-human nature, especially when lined up alongside the noble-and-honorable thing (instinct and primal ferocity held firmly under the elegant civilized veneer is quite hot); scales, talons, reptilian anatomy, variable form, tail - these things feed my xenokink. And that's not just my Goujun fixation talking. ^_^; I tend to see dragons as blood-drinkers for bonding, which feeds another of my top kinks. Also, I see dragons as self-aware and highly intelligent, even without human language capabilities; they're a vastly different but equal species and in no way lower, less, or mere animals despite non-humanoid forms. *steps down from soap-box*
Goujun
*copy-paste of the 'dragon' ramble* On top of all that, there's a lot about him as an individual character that draws me. Most of it is probably fan-extrapolated/invented, seeing as there's not a whole lot to go on in canon, but there are probably two main impressions that appeal to me most. The first is the way he seems very...stuffy, in a sense, or proper - all that noble breeding and reserved behavior, the authority, the devotion to duty, the adamant support of rules and regulations - and that over the course of the story he begins to see outside that rigid worldview, that what's right and what's just don't always match up with Life According to the Rules. Even though he stuck by the rules in the end, I think it ate at him to a rather large degree and that's probably got a lot to do with where he ended up after dying. The second is based mostly in his Otherness. There's an element of purely self-indulgent xenophilia to it, yes, but it's also a...a sympathy for his aloneness, for the sort of lonely vulnerability underneath the lofty aloofness. Certainly he is strong, and proud, and dedicated to his duty no matter how far from home and kin it may keep him, but the ability to deal past any sense of isolation doesn't mean he can't feel that loneliness underneath. Especially when surrounded by a people as petty and superficial as the average run of kami seem to be, who don't necessarily hold him in very high regard.
In short, he just...pushes my buttons. Lots of my kink buttons, yes (hell, he found most of them for me), but a lot of my resonant/sympathetic buttons, also.
Green
Over the past several years, green has sort of moved up from the middle ranks to become my favorite (or co-favorite, perhaps) color. I still like purple, absolutely, but I'm honestly hard-pressed at any given moment to say which I like better. But. Green.
Perhaps the shift has something to do with moving to Alaska, where the world is so very cold/dead for so much of the year and the brief explosion of green (life) in Spring/Summer is far more...precious, for lack of a less melodramatic word, than when I took it for granted growing up in long Arizona summers.
Perhaps it's tied in to the natural psychology and personality evolution of growing older - there are schools of thought that claim various commonalities among people who choose a certain color favorite, and all, and growing older could well mean growing into a different 'color' than what dominated in one's youth.
Fandom might have some bearing on this, also, but I think it's more a case of various characters who wear green being liked just that much more because of it rather than those characters influencing my opinion on the color.
Overall, though, green to me is a color of warmth and life, of comfort more often than not.
Desert
Funny how life works - I kind of loathed the desert while I lived there, but I'm suitably nostalgic about its selling points after a decade away. Mostly, it's the mild winter and the lack of snow that I miss, and the length of summer. And the ready sunshine. And outdoor waterparks. Wouldn't mind the chance to feel a hot, dry wind in the face every now and again. Still pretty '...meh' over cactus and dirt, however. ^_^ And I definitely don't miss all the bugs, the roaches in particular.
Bunny Doll Maker
Ahh, Nii. I kinda miss Nii. I mean, yeah I get he's the same guy as Ukoku but...I just...they seem so different to me. Nii was quirky and creepy and appealingly weird. Ukoku seems...more one-dimensional, more run-of-the-mill villainous, and just...less interesting, overall. Less personalitied. More of a cliche. I realize that Nii is just a 'tweaked' persona that Ukoku projects to hide himself, in essence, and sort of proves that Ukoku can't be quite so transparently uninteresting as he seems, but...the deflector-personality just seems more interesting a character than he is. Maybe it all just boils down to the fun of the mystery, that having an answer in the form of Ukoku the Rogue Sanzo is not so much fun as wondering 'What the hell is going on with Nii and who is he, really??'
Kindred Spirit
I don't find too many of these in my life, relatively speaking, but when I do, it's always a joy. To feel a sense of connection and commonality with another person is a wonderful thing. Most of the time, I find these connections online. I could use a few more of them IRL, honestly. ^_^;
Tea
Never really been a tea-drinker, growing up in a religion that forbade it. I'll occasionally go for one herbal variety or another in cold weather and particularly when I'm suffering some form of head cold, but what I find myself drinking just because I like it is different forms of chai tea. Especially this chai tea latte mix that I can usually find at the grocery store. Someday I suppose it would be nice to try a 'real' tea, properly prepared, instead of the instant/bagged variety.
Swashbuckling Pirates
*grin* They make for a fun genre, especially visually. Pirate fashion is an awesome look. ^_^ The whole thing, though - adventure and romance, ships and sailing, high seas and tropical islands, rogues and scoundrels and saucy women, accents and dialects and period linguistics and such - it's a terrifically fun sort of setting for stories (for the consumption of stories, anyway - never tried writing any such thing myself). I'm quite sure the reality was much less appealing, of course, but as far as fiction goes, I find it's a very easy genre to love. Which, I think, is why I'm so very fond of the PotC trilogy despite so many eyebrow-raisingly outlandish moments and whatnot. They're just good fun, overall.
Gaiden
Saiyuki Gaiden is the only story, drawn/written/filmed/whatever, that I can recall actually memorably having me in keen anticipation of What Happens Next. Maybe it's got to do with the short chapters, long waits in between, and cliff-hangers on top. But I think a lot of it also has to do with being very invested in the characters and What's Going to Happen to Them, a lot of which is tied up in familiarity and attachment to their story 500 years later. But Gaiden was just...very affecting. I remember being literally on the edge of my seat and very shallow of breath during that bit in the elevator shaft. The death chapters were riveting, and cut so deep, and probably would have evoked tears if I hadn't known they were coming one way or another.
One thing I am unsatisfied about, though, is that Goujun's story seemed wrapped up almost as an afterthought, to me. Probably just because I'm overly attached to the guy, and possibly because I'd spent years beforehand reading fanfic speculations about how it would go in the end, but it just...I felt like he deserved more. Something less...anti-climactic. *shrug* Not that it ruins the whole thing for me, or anything of the sort. Just a little 'I wish'. ^_^
Lifted fromnouvellebrielle:
1. ONE OF YOUR SCARS, HOW DID YOU GET IT?
Had some sort of benign fatty tumor removed from my right side when I was like 14 months old or so.
2. WHAT IS ON THE WALLS IN YOUR ROOM?
Stuff. Paint. A couple pieces of AJ's artwork, including his construction-paper Sith Frog. *g*
3. DO YOU SNORE, GRIND YOUR TEETH, OR TALK IN YOUR SLEEP?
Not that I'm aware of. Husband says I snore.
4. WHAT KIND OF MUSIC DO YOU LISTEN TO?
All kindsa stuff, mostly barring christian, country, urban, and modern top-40 genres aside from occasional exceptions here and there. Favorites definitely lean in the rock/metal and classical veins - especially when they blend - and new age/smooth jazz directions. With random 80's nostalgia thrown in all over the place and a distinctive fondness for gothy, trance and industrial flavors.
5. DO YOU KNOW WHAT TIME YOU WERE BORN?
Not precisely, but mom was scheduled for surgery at 8am so I'm fairly certain it was within an hour or so after that.
6. WHAT DO YOU WANT MORE THAN ANYTHING RIGHT NOW?
Sleep. Financial security.
7. WHAT DO YOU MISS?
Warm, dry sunny weather. Among other things and people.
8. WHAT IS/ARE YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSION(S)?
The ring Benjamin made for me in his junior-year jewelry class. It's very simple, silver with a black 'stone' in a crooked and imperfect setting; it was prized with much sisterly affection while he was alive and it's priceless ever since he's not.
9. HOW TALL ARE YOU?
Just shy of 5'11, or - *calculates* - about 180cm?
10. DO YOU GET CLAUSTROPHOBIC?
In mild little ways, like if someone sits on the edge of the bed while I'm in it and I'm inadvertently pinned in the sheets.
11. DO YOU GET SCARED IN THE DARK?
'Scared' doesn't feel like the right word, but under the right circumstances I can make myself somewhat uneasy.
12. THE LAST THING TO MAKE YOU CRY?
Seething frustrated rage at the latest administrative issue with the school.
13. WHAT'S YOUR WORST FEAR?
Failing. Fucking up. Particularly as a parent.
14. WHAT KIND OF HAIR/EYE COLOR DO YOU LIKE ON THE SAME SEX?
Whatever, really, though red hair (on either gender) always catches my eye and I'm probably slowest to notice the attractiveness of a blonde person.
15. WHERE CAN YOU SEE YOURSELF BEING PROPOSED TO AT?
Eh, never gave it any thought. Sort of a moot point at this juncture anyhow, barring tragedy.
16. COFFEE OR ENERGY DRINK?
...Chai tea latte?
17. FAVORITE PIZZA TOPPING?
Skimpy on the sauce, heavy on the cheese, pepperoni and black olive and green pepper and onion. And maybe some mushroom if I feel like it.
18. IF YOU COULD EAT ANYTHING RIGHT NOW, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Beef-and-broccoli from a really good chinese restaurant.
19. FAVORITE COLOR OF ALL TIME?
Still a toss-up between purple and green, depending on shade. And especially when accented with black, white, and/or silver.
20. HAVE YOU EVER EATEN A GOLDFISH?
Just the cheese-flavored cracker kind. They're not as good as Cheez-Its, either.
21. WHAT WAS THE FIRST MEANINGFUL GIFT YOU'VE EVER RECEIVED?
...Uh. I...hmm. No idea, really.
22. DO YOU HAVE A CRUSH?
Not at the moment. Not for many many years, really - my crush mechanism has evolved more into a fixation on various fictional characters and how they best pair up amongst themselves.
23. ARE YOU DOUBLE JOINTED?
Not afaik.
24. FAVORITE CLOTHING BRAND?
Whatever fits me comfortably and as flatteringly as possible. 'Brand' very rarely has anything to do with it.
25. WHO IS YOUR FAV FEMALE/MALE CELEBRITY?
...in terms of sex appeal, probably Angelina Jolie and Jet Li and I would kill to see them steam up the sheets together on-screen. In terms of admiring talent and/or body of work, of a person who'd increase my interest in something just by virtue of his/her involvement? Johnny Depp (also quite sexy in his own right and I do look forward to some hot Depp/Jolie action in whatever this new movie they're shooting together is), Tim Burton, Ishida Akira, Hans Zimmer, Kazuya Minekura. Fairly fond of Alice Cooper as a person/personality also. 'Celebrity' being a relative term.
26. DO YOU HAVE A PET RIGHT NOW?
Two, yes, though technically Rocky 'belongs' to AJ, but since he's bigger than AJ and probably outweighs him and definitely out-muscles him, he's pretty much the family dog by default.
27. What kind is it?
Leon's a yellow delta-tail betta and a very macho little fish. Rocky is at least one-quarter Husky, at least one-quarter Basenji, and we're not really sure what-all makes up his other half. He mostly looks like a blond husky-mix; it really shows in his patterning and tail and the ice-blue eyes.
I should post pics of these guys sometime.
28. WOULD YOU FALL IN LOVE KNOWING THAT THE PERSON IS LEAVING?
Probably. Not something that can really be helped, in the end, I don't think.
30. SAY A NUMBER FROM ONE TO A HUNDRED:
58. Quelle suprise, non?
31. BLONDES OR BRUNETTES?
Probably brunettes/brunets.
32. FAVORITE QUOTE?
Don't generally get much out of famous quotes and platitudes, that I've found - at least not enough that anything sticks with me. Yet. Um, Sanzo has some awesome, scathing pearls of wisdom, but I can't bring any to mind atm and such quotes are sort of variable by translation source regardless.
33. FAVORITE PLACE?
...hell, I don't know. Family 4-wheeling trips at Eklutna Lake are fun. There's this scenic-overlook spot down along Turnagain Arm called Beluga Point that I'm fond of for rocky oceanic proximity and the closest thing I can really get to a beach in reasonable driving distance, but it's not really isolated enough for me to think of it as 'mine' and the railroad's trying to keep people confined to the parking area regardless. Liability for people trespassing on their right-of-way while crossing the tracks to get to the outcroppings and 'beach' and such.
34. HAVE YOU BEEN OUT OF THE USA?
Ameri-centric, much? -_-; But no, aside from flying over Canada/Canadian coastal waters every trip out and back.
35. YOUR WEAKNESSES?
Lack of focus/motivation.
36. MET ANYONE FAMOUS?
Not like, met-met. Seen various celebrities come through when I used to work the airport security checkpoint years ago. Got autographs from various guests at a couple Star Trek conventions before that. And I worked several months for independent comic artist James A Owen back in '94.
37. FIRST JOB?
See previous question. 'Less you count babysitting gigs for church members while I was in 7th grade.
38. EVER DONE A PRANK CALL?
Nope. Not really a 'me' thing to do.
39. DO YOU THINK EVERYONE OUT THERE HAS A SOULMATE?
Eh. *shrug* 'Soulmate' is a fun trope for ficwriting, though.
40. WHAT WERE YOU DOING BEFORE YOU FILLED THIS OUT?
Lots of things - it's been days in the finishing.
41. HAVE YOU EVER HAD SURGERY?
See #1, if that counts.
42. WHAT DO YOU GET COMPLIMENTED ABOUT MOST?
My hair.
43. HAVE YOU EVER HAD BRACES?
Nope - needed 'em, but no.
44. WHAT DO YOU WANT FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY?
Pfft - birthday's a couple months past and I can never answer the question anyway.
45. HOW MANY KIDS DO YOU WANT AND THEIR NAMES?
At this point, don't think I'd want any more than four. First one's already named, having quite the time deciding on a name for the second, and am not concerning myself with any more until they happen. Generally speaking, I seem to like big names with strong presence, names that can break down into many smaller variations so the kid can 'personalize' his/her nickname later in life if desired.
46. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?
A character in a story my dad had written, I think.
47. WHAT IS THE BIGGEST TURN OFF OF THE OPPOSITE SEX?
Self-importance/cocky conceit - that kind of thing. Turn off in either sex, platonically or romantically.
48. WHAT IS ONE THING YOU LIKE ABOUT COLLEGE?
...Nothing, atm.
49. WHAT KIND OF SHAMPOO DO YOU USE?
Fructis smoothing/anti-frizz formula, for all the good it does.
50. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
Well enough, when I've not scrawled it inattentively and thus can't read it after. ^_^;
51. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT?
Honey-roasted ham, I suppose.
52. ANY BAD HABITS?
Procrastination tops the list. See also #35.
53. ARE YOU A JEALOUS PERSON?
Not really.
54. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
I...don't know, really. Maybe? This question always sends me off on existential tangents of how much 'me' would I still be if I was someone else?
55. DO YOU AGREE WITH FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS?
So long as all involved/affected parties are cool with it, why not?
56. DO LOOKS MATTER?
Yes, to the world at large. They shouldn't, but they absolutely do.
57. HOW DO YOU RELEASE ANGER?
I don't? More of a wrestling-down and climbing over than a release.
60. WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE TOY AS A CHILD?
The Jeep in my Matchbox-type car collection in my early days. Probably the My Little Pony collection when I was a little older.
61. HOW MANY NUMBERS ARE IN YOUR CELL PHONE
Can't be arsed to count, thank you.
62. WERE YOU A FAN OF BARNEY AS A LITTLE KID
...I was in high school when Barney hit the air.
64. MASHED POTATOES OR MACARONI AND CHEESE?
Er. Tough call. Kind of depends on what else is being served and questions like made-from-scratch or not.
65. WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A GUY/GIRL?
I don't, really. If I had to, it'd probably be...compatible personality, mostly, which involves things like geekiness and open-mindedness and easy-goingness and low-maintenance-ness and lack of possessiveness/jealousy and such.
66. WHAT ARE YOUR NICKNAMES?
TJ. Teej.
67. IF YOU HAD A SUPER POWER WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Purely for fun? Amphibiousness. Practically? Teleportation, telepathy and mind-reading would all be desperately useful IRL.
68. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE TV SHOW?
Meh. Maybe True Blood? That's the only current series that I really find myself wanting to make sure I don't miss.
69. WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO DEAL WITH YOUR ENEMIES?
Ignore them, I suppose, assuming I have anyone I'd classify as such. I mean, I don't suppose it really works on a global international scale, but for my personal dealings with Unpleasant People it's tended to serve pretty well.
70. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM?
Probably rocky road, though it varies from time to time.
71. DO YOU HAVE ALL YOUR FINGERS AND TOES?
Far as I know.
72. DO YOU HAVE A COMPUTER IN YOUR ROOM?
Yeah.
73. PLANS FOR TONIGHT?
After school? Bed. x_x
74. WHERE DO YOU WANT TO LIVE WHEN YOU ARE OLDER?
Somewhere warmer and more temperate than sub-arctic climes.
75. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS?
*throttles the survey for asking the question* Only if they have the time and feel inclined to do so.
76. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO?
The faint hum of the overhead flourescents. And the instructor.
77. THE LAST THING YOU DRANK?
Sprite.
78. LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
Husband.
79. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE IN THE OPPOSITE SEX?
Overall appearance, I guess. In either gender.
80. WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
Read, write, futz about on the internet. Veg on the back deck in full sunshine with the iPod, weather allowing.
81. FAVORITE THING TO HATE?
I hate hate. *sparkle* Er. I disapprove of hating, in general. I'll...leave it at that; trying to explain further sounds very pretentiously touchy-feely like.
82. Favorite season?
Summer
83. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE TYPE OF DESSERT?
Don't know that I have one. Currently wouldn't say no to something rich and creamy and chocolately, however.
84. HAVE YOU EVER REALLY AND TRULY HAD A BEST FRIEND?
Suppose so.
85. WHAT IS YOUR HAIR COLOR?
Dark brown. Currently much of it is closer to dark honey-blond from a lightening job I did back in...September?
86. EYE COLOR?
Mostly greenish, with occasional leanings in grey or grey-blue directions depending on wardrobe.
87. SHOE SIZE?
12W, usually, depending on brand. Online conversion tells me that's 9.5 UK and 44 EUR.
88. FAVORITE FAST FOOD PLACE?
Maybe Quizno's, atm.
89. FAVORITE RESTAURANT?
Don't really have one.
90. DO YOU LIKE SUSHI?
I'd venture a 'yes', in general. When I'm in the mood for it. California roll, mostly - haven't been too adventurous in my sushi-explorations.
91. WATCH TV TODAY?
Left the house at 8 and don't get in again 'til 10:30 so...no, not plannin' on it.
92. FAVORITE DAY OF THE YEAR?
...mrh. Halloween? Any particularly good day? Really don't have one/never considered it.
93. PLAY ANY MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS?
Played the violin for six, six-and-half years growing up. Been probably 15 years or so since I touched it last. Kinda miss it, at times. Would like to learn piano and cello and...like...pennywhistle, and such. Bass guitar, too. *g*
95. KISSES OR HUGS?
Depends on context and who's giving.
96. RELATIONSHIPS OR ONE NIGHT STANDS?
I personally have no interest/have never had interest in engaging in the whole one-night-stand thing, but I don't have any quibbles with casual sex outside a traditional relationship, either.
97. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU BOUGHT?
Gas.
98. WOULD YOU EVER BE A HOUSEWIFE?
Not of the 'Real Housewives of [this week's location]' or the 'Desperate' variety, no. *eyeroll* I would gladly be a stay/work-at-home mom/wife under the right circumstances, though, especially if it meant like...writing for a living or something.
99. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING?
*cough* Uhm. Well. Probably over a year ago that I started Good Omens; bookmark's about a third of the way in and I just haven't gotten back to it yet. Have a pile of unread Naruto manga that's been sitting on my headboard forever; finally managed to power through a good chunk of it a couple weekends ago. I read more fanfic and manga than book-books, these days.
100. DESCRIBE YOUR LOVE LIFE?
Why?
Combining lists from
aliaswestgate and nouvellebrielle on account of slight overlap. Also, a couple of these words popped up in an earlier round so some of this may sound somewhat familiar. ^_^;Dragon
Nnnnnnnh, dragons. *_* They've always been 'cool', and something that resonates with me on a fairly deep level. I get frustrated still in Western entertainment running into dragon stereotypes (evil, fearsome, beastly monster images and the tiresome slay-the-dragon-for-glory! motif), though it's admittedly not as bad as it used to be. Dragons to me have always been a noble species, honorable and awe-inspiring, certainly capable of being terrifying but generally not simply for the sake of it. In recent years I've gravitated more toward a preference for Eastern dragons, probably because the Eastern view of dragons seems more in line with my own perceptions. Also, dragons in general are incredibly sexy *cough*. There's great appeal in the predatory, other-than-human nature, especially when lined up alongside the noble-and-honorable thing (instinct and primal ferocity held firmly under the elegant civilized veneer is quite hot); scales, talons, reptilian anatomy, variable form, tail - these things feed my xenokink. And that's not just my Goujun fixation talking. ^_^; I tend to see dragons as blood-drinkers for bonding, which feeds another of my top kinks. Also, I see dragons as self-aware and highly intelligent, even without human language capabilities; they're a vastly different but equal species and in no way lower, less, or mere animals despite non-humanoid forms. *steps down from soap-box*
Goujun
*copy-paste of the 'dragon' ramble* On top of all that, there's a lot about him as an individual character that draws me. Most of it is probably fan-extrapolated/invented, seeing as there's not a whole lot to go on in canon, but there are probably two main impressions that appeal to me most. The first is the way he seems very...stuffy, in a sense, or proper - all that noble breeding and reserved behavior, the authority, the devotion to duty, the adamant support of rules and regulations - and that over the course of the story he begins to see outside that rigid worldview, that what's right and what's just don't always match up with Life According to the Rules. Even though he stuck by the rules in the end, I think it ate at him to a rather large degree and that's probably got a lot to do with where he ended up after dying. The second is based mostly in his Otherness. There's an element of purely self-indulgent xenophilia to it, yes, but it's also a...a sympathy for his aloneness, for the sort of lonely vulnerability underneath the lofty aloofness. Certainly he is strong, and proud, and dedicated to his duty no matter how far from home and kin it may keep him, but the ability to deal past any sense of isolation doesn't mean he can't feel that loneliness underneath. Especially when surrounded by a people as petty and superficial as the average run of kami seem to be, who don't necessarily hold him in very high regard.
In short, he just...pushes my buttons. Lots of my kink buttons, yes (hell, he found most of them for me), but a lot of my resonant/sympathetic buttons, also.
Green
Over the past several years, green has sort of moved up from the middle ranks to become my favorite (or co-favorite, perhaps) color. I still like purple, absolutely, but I'm honestly hard-pressed at any given moment to say which I like better. But. Green.
Perhaps the shift has something to do with moving to Alaska, where the world is so very cold/dead for so much of the year and the brief explosion of green (life) in Spring/Summer is far more...precious, for lack of a less melodramatic word, than when I took it for granted growing up in long Arizona summers.
Perhaps it's tied in to the natural psychology and personality evolution of growing older - there are schools of thought that claim various commonalities among people who choose a certain color favorite, and all, and growing older could well mean growing into a different 'color' than what dominated in one's youth.
Fandom might have some bearing on this, also, but I think it's more a case of various characters who wear green being liked just that much more because of it rather than those characters influencing my opinion on the color.
Overall, though, green to me is a color of warmth and life, of comfort more often than not.
Desert
Funny how life works - I kind of loathed the desert while I lived there, but I'm suitably nostalgic about its selling points after a decade away. Mostly, it's the mild winter and the lack of snow that I miss, and the length of summer. And the ready sunshine. And outdoor waterparks. Wouldn't mind the chance to feel a hot, dry wind in the face every now and again. Still pretty '...meh' over cactus and dirt, however. ^_^ And I definitely don't miss all the bugs, the roaches in particular.
Bunny Doll Maker
Ahh, Nii. I kinda miss Nii. I mean, yeah I get he's the same guy as Ukoku but...I just...they seem so different to me. Nii was quirky and creepy and appealingly weird. Ukoku seems...more one-dimensional, more run-of-the-mill villainous, and just...less interesting, overall. Less personalitied. More of a cliche. I realize that Nii is just a 'tweaked' persona that Ukoku projects to hide himself, in essence, and sort of proves that Ukoku can't be quite so transparently uninteresting as he seems, but...the deflector-personality just seems more interesting a character than he is. Maybe it all just boils down to the fun of the mystery, that having an answer in the form of Ukoku the Rogue Sanzo is not so much fun as wondering 'What the hell is going on with Nii and who is he, really??'
Kindred Spirit
I don't find too many of these in my life, relatively speaking, but when I do, it's always a joy. To feel a sense of connection and commonality with another person is a wonderful thing. Most of the time, I find these connections online. I could use a few more of them IRL, honestly. ^_^;
Tea
Never really been a tea-drinker, growing up in a religion that forbade it. I'll occasionally go for one herbal variety or another in cold weather and particularly when I'm suffering some form of head cold, but what I find myself drinking just because I like it is different forms of chai tea. Especially this chai tea latte mix that I can usually find at the grocery store. Someday I suppose it would be nice to try a 'real' tea, properly prepared, instead of the instant/bagged variety.
Swashbuckling Pirates
*grin* They make for a fun genre, especially visually. Pirate fashion is an awesome look. ^_^ The whole thing, though - adventure and romance, ships and sailing, high seas and tropical islands, rogues and scoundrels and saucy women, accents and dialects and period linguistics and such - it's a terrifically fun sort of setting for stories (for the consumption of stories, anyway - never tried writing any such thing myself). I'm quite sure the reality was much less appealing, of course, but as far as fiction goes, I find it's a very easy genre to love. Which, I think, is why I'm so very fond of the PotC trilogy despite so many eyebrow-raisingly outlandish moments and whatnot. They're just good fun, overall.
Gaiden
Saiyuki Gaiden is the only story, drawn/written/filmed/whatever, that I can recall actually memorably having me in keen anticipation of What Happens Next. Maybe it's got to do with the short chapters, long waits in between, and cliff-hangers on top. But I think a lot of it also has to do with being very invested in the characters and What's Going to Happen to Them, a lot of which is tied up in familiarity and attachment to their story 500 years later. But Gaiden was just...very affecting. I remember being literally on the edge of my seat and very shallow of breath during that bit in the elevator shaft. The death chapters were riveting, and cut so deep, and probably would have evoked tears if I hadn't known they were coming one way or another.
One thing I am unsatisfied about, though, is that Goujun's story seemed wrapped up almost as an afterthought, to me. Probably just because I'm overly attached to the guy, and possibly because I'd spent years beforehand reading fanfic speculations about how it would go in the end, but it just...I felt like he deserved more. Something less...anti-climactic. *shrug* Not that it ruins the whole thing for me, or anything of the sort. Just a little 'I wish'. ^_^
Lifted from
nouvellebrielle:1. ONE OF YOUR SCARS, HOW DID YOU GET IT?
Had some sort of benign fatty tumor removed from my right side when I was like 14 months old or so.
2. WHAT IS ON THE WALLS IN YOUR ROOM?
Stuff. Paint. A couple pieces of AJ's artwork, including his construction-paper Sith Frog. *g*
3. DO YOU SNORE, GRIND YOUR TEETH, OR TALK IN YOUR SLEEP?
Not that I'm aware of. Husband says I snore.
4. WHAT KIND OF MUSIC DO YOU LISTEN TO?
All kindsa stuff, mostly barring christian, country, urban, and modern top-40 genres aside from occasional exceptions here and there. Favorites definitely lean in the rock/metal and classical veins - especially when they blend - and new age/smooth jazz directions. With random 80's nostalgia thrown in all over the place and a distinctive fondness for gothy, trance and industrial flavors.
5. DO YOU KNOW WHAT TIME YOU WERE BORN?
Not precisely, but mom was scheduled for surgery at 8am so I'm fairly certain it was within an hour or so after that.
6. WHAT DO YOU WANT MORE THAN ANYTHING RIGHT NOW?
Sleep. Financial security.
7. WHAT DO YOU MISS?
Warm, dry sunny weather. Among other things and people.
8. WHAT IS/ARE YOUR MOST PRIZED POSSESSION(S)?
The ring Benjamin made for me in his junior-year jewelry class. It's very simple, silver with a black 'stone' in a crooked and imperfect setting; it was prized with much sisterly affection while he was alive and it's priceless ever since he's not.
9. HOW TALL ARE YOU?
Just shy of 5'11, or - *calculates* - about 180cm?
10. DO YOU GET CLAUSTROPHOBIC?
In mild little ways, like if someone sits on the edge of the bed while I'm in it and I'm inadvertently pinned in the sheets.
11. DO YOU GET SCARED IN THE DARK?
'Scared' doesn't feel like the right word, but under the right circumstances I can make myself somewhat uneasy.
12. THE LAST THING TO MAKE YOU CRY?
Seething frustrated rage at the latest administrative issue with the school.
13. WHAT'S YOUR WORST FEAR?
Failing. Fucking up. Particularly as a parent.
14. WHAT KIND OF HAIR/EYE COLOR DO YOU LIKE ON THE SAME SEX?
Whatever, really, though red hair (on either gender) always catches my eye and I'm probably slowest to notice the attractiveness of a blonde person.
15. WHERE CAN YOU SEE YOURSELF BEING PROPOSED TO AT?
Eh, never gave it any thought. Sort of a moot point at this juncture anyhow, barring tragedy.
16. COFFEE OR ENERGY DRINK?
...Chai tea latte?
17. FAVORITE PIZZA TOPPING?
Skimpy on the sauce, heavy on the cheese, pepperoni and black olive and green pepper and onion. And maybe some mushroom if I feel like it.
18. IF YOU COULD EAT ANYTHING RIGHT NOW, WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Beef-and-broccoli from a really good chinese restaurant.
19. FAVORITE COLOR OF ALL TIME?
Still a toss-up between purple and green, depending on shade. And especially when accented with black, white, and/or silver.
20. HAVE YOU EVER EATEN A GOLDFISH?
Just the cheese-flavored cracker kind. They're not as good as Cheez-Its, either.
21. WHAT WAS THE FIRST MEANINGFUL GIFT YOU'VE EVER RECEIVED?
...Uh. I...hmm. No idea, really.
22. DO YOU HAVE A CRUSH?
Not at the moment. Not for many many years, really - my crush mechanism has evolved more into a fixation on various fictional characters and how they best pair up amongst themselves.
23. ARE YOU DOUBLE JOINTED?
Not afaik.
24. FAVORITE CLOTHING BRAND?
Whatever fits me comfortably and as flatteringly as possible. 'Brand' very rarely has anything to do with it.
25. WHO IS YOUR FAV FEMALE/MALE CELEBRITY?
...in terms of sex appeal, probably Angelina Jolie and Jet Li and I would kill to see them steam up the sheets together on-screen. In terms of admiring talent and/or body of work, of a person who'd increase my interest in something just by virtue of his/her involvement? Johnny Depp (also quite sexy in his own right and I do look forward to some hot Depp/Jolie action in whatever this new movie they're shooting together is), Tim Burton, Ishida Akira, Hans Zimmer, Kazuya Minekura. Fairly fond of Alice Cooper as a person/personality also. 'Celebrity' being a relative term.
26. DO YOU HAVE A PET RIGHT NOW?
Two, yes, though technically Rocky 'belongs' to AJ, but since he's bigger than AJ and probably outweighs him and definitely out-muscles him, he's pretty much the family dog by default.
27. What kind is it?
Leon's a yellow delta-tail betta and a very macho little fish. Rocky is at least one-quarter Husky, at least one-quarter Basenji, and we're not really sure what-all makes up his other half. He mostly looks like a blond husky-mix; it really shows in his patterning and tail and the ice-blue eyes.
I should post pics of these guys sometime.
28. WOULD YOU FALL IN LOVE KNOWING THAT THE PERSON IS LEAVING?
Probably. Not something that can really be helped, in the end, I don't think.
30. SAY A NUMBER FROM ONE TO A HUNDRED:
58. Quelle suprise, non?
31. BLONDES OR BRUNETTES?
Probably brunettes/brunets.
32. FAVORITE QUOTE?
Don't generally get much out of famous quotes and platitudes, that I've found - at least not enough that anything sticks with me. Yet. Um, Sanzo has some awesome, scathing pearls of wisdom, but I can't bring any to mind atm and such quotes are sort of variable by translation source regardless.
33. FAVORITE PLACE?
...hell, I don't know. Family 4-wheeling trips at Eklutna Lake are fun. There's this scenic-overlook spot down along Turnagain Arm called Beluga Point that I'm fond of for rocky oceanic proximity and the closest thing I can really get to a beach in reasonable driving distance, but it's not really isolated enough for me to think of it as 'mine' and the railroad's trying to keep people confined to the parking area regardless. Liability for people trespassing on their right-of-way while crossing the tracks to get to the outcroppings and 'beach' and such.
34. HAVE YOU BEEN OUT OF THE USA?
Ameri-centric, much? -_-; But no, aside from flying over Canada/Canadian coastal waters every trip out and back.
35. YOUR WEAKNESSES?
Lack of focus/motivation.
36. MET ANYONE FAMOUS?
Not like, met-met. Seen various celebrities come through when I used to work the airport security checkpoint years ago. Got autographs from various guests at a couple Star Trek conventions before that. And I worked several months for independent comic artist James A Owen back in '94.
37. FIRST JOB?
See previous question. 'Less you count babysitting gigs for church members while I was in 7th grade.
38. EVER DONE A PRANK CALL?
Nope. Not really a 'me' thing to do.
39. DO YOU THINK EVERYONE OUT THERE HAS A SOULMATE?
Eh. *shrug* 'Soulmate' is a fun trope for ficwriting, though.
40. WHAT WERE YOU DOING BEFORE YOU FILLED THIS OUT?
Lots of things - it's been days in the finishing.
41. HAVE YOU EVER HAD SURGERY?
See #1, if that counts.
42. WHAT DO YOU GET COMPLIMENTED ABOUT MOST?
My hair.
43. HAVE YOU EVER HAD BRACES?
Nope - needed 'em, but no.
44. WHAT DO YOU WANT FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY?
Pfft - birthday's a couple months past and I can never answer the question anyway.
45. HOW MANY KIDS DO YOU WANT AND THEIR NAMES?
At this point, don't think I'd want any more than four. First one's already named, having quite the time deciding on a name for the second, and am not concerning myself with any more until they happen. Generally speaking, I seem to like big names with strong presence, names that can break down into many smaller variations so the kid can 'personalize' his/her nickname later in life if desired.
46. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE?
A character in a story my dad had written, I think.
47. WHAT IS THE BIGGEST TURN OFF OF THE OPPOSITE SEX?
Self-importance/cocky conceit - that kind of thing. Turn off in either sex, platonically or romantically.
48. WHAT IS ONE THING YOU LIKE ABOUT COLLEGE?
...Nothing, atm.
49. WHAT KIND OF SHAMPOO DO YOU USE?
Fructis smoothing/anti-frizz formula, for all the good it does.
50. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING?
Well enough, when I've not scrawled it inattentively and thus can't read it after. ^_^;
51. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT?
Honey-roasted ham, I suppose.
52. ANY BAD HABITS?
Procrastination tops the list. See also #35.
53. ARE YOU A JEALOUS PERSON?
Not really.
54. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON, WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU?
I...don't know, really. Maybe? This question always sends me off on existential tangents of how much 'me' would I still be if I was someone else?
55. DO YOU AGREE WITH FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS?
So long as all involved/affected parties are cool with it, why not?
56. DO LOOKS MATTER?
Yes, to the world at large. They shouldn't, but they absolutely do.
57. HOW DO YOU RELEASE ANGER?
I don't? More of a wrestling-down and climbing over than a release.
60. WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE TOY AS A CHILD?
The Jeep in my Matchbox-type car collection in my early days. Probably the My Little Pony collection when I was a little older.
61. HOW MANY NUMBERS ARE IN YOUR CELL PHONE
Can't be arsed to count, thank you.
62. WERE YOU A FAN OF BARNEY AS A LITTLE KID
...I was in high school when Barney hit the air.
64. MASHED POTATOES OR MACARONI AND CHEESE?
Er. Tough call. Kind of depends on what else is being served and questions like made-from-scratch or not.
65. WHAT DO YOU LOOK FOR IN A GUY/GIRL?
I don't, really. If I had to, it'd probably be...compatible personality, mostly, which involves things like geekiness and open-mindedness and easy-goingness and low-maintenance-ness and lack of possessiveness/jealousy and such.
66. WHAT ARE YOUR NICKNAMES?
TJ. Teej.
67. IF YOU HAD A SUPER POWER WHAT WOULD IT BE?
Purely for fun? Amphibiousness. Practically? Teleportation, telepathy and mind-reading would all be desperately useful IRL.
68. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE TV SHOW?
Meh. Maybe True Blood? That's the only current series that I really find myself wanting to make sure I don't miss.
69. WHAT'S THE BEST WAY TO DEAL WITH YOUR ENEMIES?
Ignore them, I suppose, assuming I have anyone I'd classify as such. I mean, I don't suppose it really works on a global international scale, but for my personal dealings with Unpleasant People it's tended to serve pretty well.
70. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM?
Probably rocky road, though it varies from time to time.
71. DO YOU HAVE ALL YOUR FINGERS AND TOES?
Far as I know.
72. DO YOU HAVE A COMPUTER IN YOUR ROOM?
Yeah.
73. PLANS FOR TONIGHT?
After school? Bed. x_x
74. WHERE DO YOU WANT TO LIVE WHEN YOU ARE OLDER?
Somewhere warmer and more temperate than sub-arctic climes.
75. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS?
*throttles the survey for asking the question* Only if they have the time and feel inclined to do so.
76. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO?
The faint hum of the overhead flourescents. And the instructor.
77. THE LAST THING YOU DRANK?
Sprite.
78. LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE?
Husband.
79. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE IN THE OPPOSITE SEX?
Overall appearance, I guess. In either gender.
80. WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
Read, write, futz about on the internet. Veg on the back deck in full sunshine with the iPod, weather allowing.
81. FAVORITE THING TO HATE?
I hate hate. *sparkle* Er. I disapprove of hating, in general. I'll...leave it at that; trying to explain further sounds very pretentiously touchy-feely like.
82. Favorite season?
Summer
83. WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE TYPE OF DESSERT?
Don't know that I have one. Currently wouldn't say no to something rich and creamy and chocolately, however.
84. HAVE YOU EVER REALLY AND TRULY HAD A BEST FRIEND?
Suppose so.
85. WHAT IS YOUR HAIR COLOR?
Dark brown. Currently much of it is closer to dark honey-blond from a lightening job I did back in...September?
86. EYE COLOR?
Mostly greenish, with occasional leanings in grey or grey-blue directions depending on wardrobe.
87. SHOE SIZE?
12W, usually, depending on brand. Online conversion tells me that's 9.5 UK and 44 EUR.
88. FAVORITE FAST FOOD PLACE?
Maybe Quizno's, atm.
89. FAVORITE RESTAURANT?
Don't really have one.
90. DO YOU LIKE SUSHI?
I'd venture a 'yes', in general. When I'm in the mood for it. California roll, mostly - haven't been too adventurous in my sushi-explorations.
91. WATCH TV TODAY?
Left the house at 8 and don't get in again 'til 10:30 so...no, not plannin' on it.
92. FAVORITE DAY OF THE YEAR?
...mrh. Halloween? Any particularly good day? Really don't have one/never considered it.
93. PLAY ANY MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS?
Played the violin for six, six-and-half years growing up. Been probably 15 years or so since I touched it last. Kinda miss it, at times. Would like to learn piano and cello and...like...pennywhistle, and such. Bass guitar, too. *g*
95. KISSES OR HUGS?
Depends on context and who's giving.
96. RELATIONSHIPS OR ONE NIGHT STANDS?
I personally have no interest/have never had interest in engaging in the whole one-night-stand thing, but I don't have any quibbles with casual sex outside a traditional relationship, either.
97. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU BOUGHT?
Gas.
98. WOULD YOU EVER BE A HOUSEWIFE?
Not of the 'Real Housewives of [this week's location]' or the 'Desperate' variety, no. *eyeroll* I would gladly be a stay/work-at-home mom/wife under the right circumstances, though, especially if it meant like...writing for a living or something.
99. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING?
*cough* Uhm. Well. Probably over a year ago that I started Good Omens; bookmark's about a third of the way in and I just haven't gotten back to it yet. Have a pile of unread Naruto manga that's been sitting on my headboard forever; finally managed to power through a good chunk of it a couple weekends ago. I read more fanfic and manga than book-books, these days.
100. DESCRIBE YOUR LOVE LIFE?
Why?
