Why am I here?

Zster comments on Aug 12, 2018:

Both. Use this community to satisfy your intellectual hunger, your need for discussion. Then, perhaps you and your wife can more readily work on the rest. Maybe that could be the more honest, loyal way.

And Who Can Tell Me ?

Zster comments on Aug 11, 2018:

https://youtu.be/ju-lptJweTc

Finished retrofitting a closet into a new home for Rita! She loves it.

Zster comments on Aug 11, 2018:

Fantastic idea!

My favorite North American spider, the black and yellow argiope (Argiope aurantia).

Zster comments on Aug 11, 2018:

These were the worst part of walkingin my grandmother's corn fields when it was high. The spiders were numerous and the webs were huge!

I thought this group might appreciate this mural. This is not my photo, I found it on the internet.

Zster comments on Aug 11, 2018:

Fabulous!!!

So "Asbestos" has been approved by the EPA for use in the USA, we are purchasing it from Russia.

Zster comments on Aug 8, 2018:

Mesothelioma anyone? It's positively idiotic to deregulate this crap. It's a KNOWN carcinogen, not just suspected.

Has any here ever used dry ice to ship perishables before?

Zster comments on Aug 8, 2018:

That depends. I use it to transport perishables that I store FROZEN. Once frozen, cooling farther has been ok for us. We also ship a lot of biological items on dry ice at work. I've never had it be too cold. Just be aware, CO2 needs to breathe as it generates gas with time. Also, only work with it in a very well ventilated area. I crack my car windows, just in case. Dry ice is regulated as a dangerous good. There are specific packing and labeling requirements. See page 12 of attached FedEx instructions. http://images.fedex.com/us/services/pdf/How_To_Pack.pdf

Early in my relationship with my now ex-husband, I had a small crush on a fellow grad student who ...

Zster comments on Aug 7, 2018:

I've already done the 20 year great marriage ended by cancer. It was horrible to have it cut short, but was worth what we had. Given the chance of doing it again, knowing... I definitely would.

Questions About Breaking the Dish Okay, not really breaking the dish, but that's my equivalent of...

Zster comments on Aug 7, 2018:

Yes. You can buy a Roku streaming box, or Apple TV box, or Amazon Fire stick. We heavily use Roku because my kids have android phones and like to project from them onto the TV.

Cable, Dish, Antenna, or Streaming? How do you watch TV.

Zster comments on Aug 7, 2018:

Stream NetFlix, Prime, and YouTube.

??? Good news for a great teen! [lgbtqnation.com]

Zster comments on Aug 6, 2018:

The kid's freaking valedictorian? And his folks kicked him out? Idiots.

"Intelligent Comedians on Religious Stupidity". [youtube.com]

Zster comments on Aug 6, 2018:

I get no audio with that link. ):

"Intelligent Comedians on Religious Stupidity". [youtube.com]

Zster comments on Aug 6, 2018:

I get no aufio with that link. ):

Do you like to dominate your partner or to be dominated?

Zster comments on Aug 6, 2018:

Neither or both? I most enjoy a fairly equaly partnership. Sometimes I can lead, other times he can. It's fun to mix it up and keep things fresh. (:

So in another thread here the notion of needing someone was given a rough battering in favor of ...

Zster comments on Aug 6, 2018:

I define "need" as cannot physically survive without it. One CAN make it to old age on their own. It happens every day. Whether or not mere survival is pleasant and fulfilling is another matter. Thus I WANT the company of another. I can survive without it, but would choose companionship, given the option.

I’m back.

Zster comments on Aug 5, 2018:

The absurdity of a universal creator giving us bodies and then punishing us for even touching them? I'm not buying it. PEOPLE concern themselves about such miniscule things...

Pepsi or Coke?

Zster comments on Aug 5, 2018:

Coke. I dislike the taste of Pepsi and get the pukes if I drink it. Awful. Of course, I mostly avoid commercial soda now.

I’m having a nerdgasm, Stewart is coming back to play Picard again!!!

Zster comments on Aug 5, 2018:

I know! I am totally looking forward to this!

It finally happened! The humming birds actually sipped nectar from the feeder while I was still ...

Zster comments on Aug 2, 2018:

And now my daughter got one to sip nectar out of her hand! (Photo of the hand feeder is attached). She said that they squeeze with their feet when they eat. This season has been a TON of fun...

They Told Us But Actually This is True About Cancer What Do You Think? Agree/Disagree?

Zster comments on Aug 1, 2018:

It's not that simple. One needs to weigh the statistical risk vs benefit for each. In many of the pairs, BOTH sides can be true. Personally, I'll accept the transforming risk of imaging in order to catch a hidden cancer early enough to possibly cure it. We each get to make those decisions for ourselves. And UV light directly produces thymidine dimers in DNA. It's one of the few true cause/effects that we DO know. Light also catalyzes vitamin D action etc which could be carcinoprotective.

What’s your favorite kind of candy bar?

Zster comments on Aug 1, 2018:

Ghirardelli Twilight (72%); followed by Vosges Naga bar. Back in the day, I adored 10:30 bars which are no longer made.

No matter what anybody says

Zster comments on Aug 1, 2018:

That feels pretty true from my perspective, so far. Sort of makes me wonder when vows are made "until death" WHOSE death that refers to! (;

A study which found trans people are inherently viewed as less attractive regardless of their actual...

Zster comments on Aug 1, 2018:

Sorry, short work break, so no video viewing, yet. However, one person who transitioned to male in my life is gorgeous man! He draws a head turn from me EVERY time!

I hide my tears?

Zster comments on Aug 1, 2018:

Ugh, me too, apparently! It's been twelve years and I still miss D every single day! It's been quite a week for songs that ambush me (usually in the car) that bring the tears. Each of these has a VERY special memory attached to it. Sigh. Sure do miss it. https://youtu.be/Et6epq5fslg https://youtu.be/4FDcTyyXQb8 https://youtu.be/zDVnjCwCYCs

Maybe a little bit evil....

Zster comments on Aug 1, 2018:

Our Jack is more than a tad grumpus. He looks innocent enough here, though...

A green anole outside my apartment.

Zster comments on Aug 1, 2018:

I am surprised that you braved the ever fierce dewlap display to get the pictures! (;

I was in a local park that has quite a few feral cats that people feed.

Zster comments on Aug 1, 2018:

Nice shots! Thanks for sharing with us mongoose-less types.

This question is about something I do not understand and definitely something I would not do, but ...

Zster comments on Aug 1, 2018:

Two guys who I am friends with, but am not (ever) going to be romantic with, talk at length about wanting to send me picts. Each honestly thinks he has a gorgeous schlong and thinks that I wont be able to resist sex with them if I see it. MY natural response to dick picts in general, especially the unsolicited type: disgust and anger. Peen become attractive as I grow closer to someone. It's not the lure of a dick, but of HIS, if you know what I mean.

Do you think about retirement much?

Zster comments on Jul 31, 2018:

I think about it daily! I turn 55 this coming May and hope to give notice then. I've hit my targets investment-wise and get full benefits then. I will likely give my art a shot for travel and luxury money. I just really want out of the corporate rat race.

Just for fun question: Have you ever made love on a beach?

Zster comments on Jul 31, 2018:

Do you mean on the sand? If so, no. If in shallow water counts... yep.

The Best Sex Doesn't come From Hot-Blooded Passion

Zster comments on Jul 30, 2018:

Planning does not build anticipation for me. I don't get turned on by command or schedule. I build anticipation when the mood strikes, through special looks and body language.

Do you have a rule when meeting someone online on how long you will talk/text before you meet.

Zster comments on Jul 30, 2018:

No rule as each situation is different. I have learned to not spend too much time online, though. Things can be thrilling at that level and then really NOT work face-to-face, which invariably leaves hurt feelings.

Ok.

Zster comments on Jul 30, 2018:

If he quits contacting me, I move on. Might send him some chipper little light message to see if he would converse, but I might not. Life is too short for fretting.

Let Singles Know Who You Are By Answering These Questions

Zster comments on Jul 30, 2018:

1. Ugh, back to work. 2. Something awful befalling either of my kids. 3. Get both kids through a successful year of college. 4. I don't desire fame! In a parallel universe, I'd be a phenomenal dancer. 5. Borborygmus. What's .not to like? Say it! It also means something rather funny and is excellent onamonapeia. 6. Mty tendency to be easily amused. 7. Surviving in a dog eat dog, competition riddled world. 8. Perfect day: wake up naturally and refreshed, followed by a leisurely breakfast and coffee, then spend time interacting and playing with my cats. Enjoy a relaxing day outside with the kids, followed by a delish dinner (likely grilled seafood) and maybe a movie watched as a family, preferably one that makes us laugh a lot.

Love Your F-cking Life

Zster comments on Jul 30, 2018:

This is great! Thanks!

I am celebrating 21 years sober today. Any other friends of Bill out there?

Zster comments on Jul 29, 2018:

Yep. 13 years young next month. Not attending since my boss kaboshed my attending over lunch. I hope to resume once I retire.

That will get you moving..lol

Zster comments on Jul 29, 2018:

I read that as "WHAT will get you moving?". That could make for some mighty fine comment reading. (:

That's one way to do it.

Zster comments on Jul 29, 2018:

Does it come in stackable?

There are not many people on tonight.

Zster comments on Jul 29, 2018:

I was STILL driving back from Atlanta, stuck in hellish road construction.

Have you ever seen a movie so bad, it was laughable and pure comedy?

Zster comments on Jul 29, 2018:

"Rubber", though I think perhaps it was SUPPOSED to be so bad that it was hilarious.

Time Sensitive! I need some advice! I met a cute guy on Wednesday who seemed into me.

Zster comments on Jul 29, 2018:

I can't really be the ONLY one who might think hitting someone new (who you've not gone out with, yet) with something as intimate as your burthday celebration might have felt a bit caged, can I? I wonder, had you asked him to join you in a casual cup of coffee, if things might have gone differently. He might have thought that you were fishing for gifts.

Did you blow Bubbles as a kid?

Zster comments on Jul 29, 2018:

Yep. I still do now and then.

What's the problem with prayer other than, we know that it doesn't work...

Zster comments on Jul 28, 2018:

People in my area pray INSTEAD of helping (when they could help and make a meaningful difference), which seems horrible to me. Worse, a percentage will bully others, bragging that they prayed, which is actively mean, especially when there is an (already) hurting person needing help. IMO, doing nothing harms less than either of those.

Just want to meet people who arent religious.

Zster comments on Jul 28, 2018:

You've landed in a good place, then. Welcome aboard!

I have been a widower for 8 years and have grown immensely because of it.

Zster comments on Jul 28, 2018:

I share the sentiment because I already found out once how terrific a truly mutual match can be. (Good luck on your journey, from a fellow traveler!)

Just wondering, What type of a morning person are you?

Zster comments on Jul 27, 2018:

Soooo.... I am not odd in not being very functional if awakened early. MOST answered similarly here. Why does society force us out of bed so damned early, then? We no longer depend on natural daylight to see!

Keurig coffee?

Zster comments on Jul 27, 2018:

I don't understand the need. My Senseo (older than K) makes a much better tasting single cup without landfill waste. It's STILL my go to when in a hurry for a cup.

My boys are floating the river today.

Zster comments on Jul 27, 2018:

That would drive me nuts, to have to be in the office while that is going on!

Has anything ever happened in a restaurant that made you walk out?

Zster comments on Jul 27, 2018:

Two things. 1. A roach crawled across the table, over our utensils and everything. 2. An ethnic group of people got VERY hostile when a waiter stopped by the hostess stand and asked if he could help a lady who had just come in the door (several people were seated on a bench, waiting for the hostess who had yet to show). They screamed accusations of racism. The situation felt dangerous. We skedaddled.

Did you know....[agnostic.com]

Zster comments on Jul 27, 2018:

Whoa! If that's the case, there must be a lot of them!

Which horror movie character/monster would you hate to face in real life?

Zster comments on Jul 26, 2018:

These guys. I figure that the southern variety would sting (like fire ants). https://youtu.be/KPw4U_IhWV4 https://youtu.be/g1VElqcFbsc

What's beside your bed?

Zster comments on Jul 25, 2018:

Books, alarm clock, and a Mexican Black Kingsnake named "Siri" (Sirius Black).

I need some motivation.

Zster comments on Jul 23, 2018:

https://youtu.be/NVOUTkFkMNU

“An almond doesn’t lactate:” FDA to crack down on use of the word “milk” | Ars Technica

Zster comments on Jul 23, 2018:

Not going to argue if there already IS a law defining milk. If so, why the sudden interest in enforcing it now? We've been adding coconut milk to pina coladas for decades. NO one would confuse plant milk with mammalian. Well, until now, I guess.

If Juice Cleanse Ads Were Honest (Detox, Master Cleanse) - YouTube

Zster comments on Jul 23, 2018:

Fresh from scratch juices can be healthy in REASONABLE doses. They can be a lot better than sugar laden commercial juices. It would seem like one would know better than to plan on downing a 32+ oz batch of juice in a day. Eating as much produce in the same amount of time would cause pretty severe pain, at the very least.

How do you follow that?

Zster comments on Jul 23, 2018:

I offer truth: "I am so sorry", "this makes no sense", "this sucks"...

“An almond doesn’t lactate:” FDA to crack down on use of the word “milk” | Ars Technica

Zster comments on Jul 23, 2018:

For Pete's sake! Are prople really stupid enough to need this clarified? Doesn't the FDA have bigger fish to fry? Waste. Of. Resources.

Some portrait photos of big birds living on my farm.

Zster comments on Jul 22, 2018:

Tough to judge size... are any of those the super tall (almost a meter, standing) variety?

This little bluebird left the nest last night! His parents very bravely kept guard as he flew to a ...

Zster comments on Jul 22, 2018:

Darling! A very nice photo shot!

I wanted to shout out a huge "thank you" to each group member in this "crawlie" community.

Zster comments on Jul 22, 2018:

PS - the photo has next to nothing to do with the post. I just took the opportunity to showcase some decked out runner ducks that I came across while surfing. You know what they say about "birds of a feather"... (;

While helping my mom unload plants and potting soil I took a look for the Abbott's sphinx ...

Zster comments on Jul 22, 2018:

That's sad. I know it can be nature's way, but she sure can be brutal!

Does anyone recognize this?

Zster comments on Jul 22, 2018:

A hatchling of some sort. Hopefully not a clothes moth youngster! (;

If.

Zster comments on Jul 22, 2018:

Was it car SIZE that correlated? Dang! I thought it was car loudness that was tied to the driver's level of insecurity. (look at me! look at me! look at me!)

So if I can't find love in my youthful moment, how valuable will it be when I find it in old age?

Zster comments on Jul 22, 2018:

I've seen people fall in love later than most. They were glad to be single so that they were free to embrace it and glad to have no battle scars from previous divorces. It can work beautifully. There are probably exceptions, though.

Does it drive anybody else crazy when there is a sink full of dishes that hasn’t been cleaned for ...

Zster comments on Jul 22, 2018:

Can NOT stand it! So non-hygeinic, and the stench...

What is the most unusual pet you have had? Mine was an earthworm named Squiggly.

Zster comments on Jul 21, 2018:

A large, green female praying mantis. I am lucky that she did not try to eat her anole (lizard) cage mate. I must have scared him to death, putting her in there.

You know you are spoiling the cats when the giant cat tower is on one side of the window and the ...

Zster comments on Jul 21, 2018:

I think that your priorities are spot on! (;

Just wanted to say hello and that I'm new to the website and this group.

Zster comments on Jul 21, 2018:

Welcome aboard, and happy caturday! (:

Can fasting be a healthy way to lose weight and feel good?

Zster comments on Jul 21, 2018:

It's definitely not for me. Missing just one meal induces a severe migraine. That can't be healthy (for me. I am not speaking for others).

Because it makes you happy?

Zster comments on Jul 21, 2018:

The older that I get, the more that I consider "fun" to be a legitimate core value. (:

Do you think the views of a potential partner; being similar is important?

Zster comments on Jul 21, 2018:

Both. There needs to be some common ground, probably in your more core values, to help you relate to each other. Then, differences in less crucial areas likely add some spice to keep things interesting.

What is the oddest food you've ever eaten? Would you eat it again?

Zster comments on Jul 21, 2018:

Beef kidney and beef tongue. Never again.

At what age did you realize the Earth wasn't flat?

Zster comments on Jul 20, 2018:

Not sure I ever thought it was. When I was five years old, I got to watch the moon landing (Apollo 11 mission) and return to an obviously spherical earth, complete with splash down.

Joe Cocker - You Can Leave Your Hat On (Official Video) HD - YouTube

Zster comments on Jul 16, 2018:

A Cocker classic! LOVE it!

Keep them tucked away in your heart.?

Zster comments on Jul 15, 2018:

Yes. So true.

What's one of your favorite songs?

Zster comments on Jul 15, 2018:

https://youtu.be/hwZNL7QVJjE

I am downing a bunch of shrimp sauted inn butter pino, garlic, and parsley.

Zster comments on Jul 15, 2018:

Man! You sure know how to hurt a person! That looks positively delectable! (:

Food for thought...

Zster comments on Jul 14, 2018:

Well said.

I made split pea soup today. I know that it’s summertime but I still like to have soup!

Zster comments on Jul 14, 2018:

I agree! Soup is s year round item in my home. Every Dec and July I make 4-6 large pots of soup and freeze down single portions for work week lunches. They are a ton healthier than store bought. I just made black bean and split pea today. Prepared mixed greens soup, spinach green soup, and brothy mushroom last weekend. I hope your split pea was awesome! It's my personal fave!

One of my favorite kitchen gadgets.

Zster comments on Jul 14, 2018:

Thanks for the recommendation!!

At least the cats are real.

Zster comments on Jul 14, 2018:

Puuurrrrfect!

What are the articles of clothing you hate to wear but must at certain times?

Zster comments on Jul 14, 2018:

Panty hose! They never fit comfortably (both too tight while falling down, and almost always too short) and feel like a torture device. I also dislike what passes for professional clothing in general. They don't require the dreaded hose, but tend to bind and make me look dumpy. One of my first acts in retirement will be to donate my entire work wardrobe. (:

Short rant ahead, fair warning.

Zster comments on Jul 14, 2018:

Ummm "I don't watch television" is a simple statement of fact. If someone chooses to take that as snobbish, whatever. How else are we to answer a question about something on TV? What would not offend the asker's sensibilities, while being direct? I agree, one can answer a TV question without indirectly (or directly) attacking ("I don't watch sports because they are stupid"). When one answers with a snark, I suspect they should not expect a warm reception to it. Choosing not to watch TV is hardly a status symbol, though. It could be the opposite. TV has gotten damned expensive. Not watching could be underpinned by one's not being able to afford it or living in a geography without signal or cable.

So, when you take one of the monsters to see the vet, what song are you serenaded with?

Zster comments on Jul 14, 2018:

Pretty much anything from the screamo metal genre. Sigh.

Guarded Girl

Zster comments on Jul 14, 2018:

Wow. How refreshing! I am super used to guys who criticize a woman for her independence. "Can't you just PRETEND to be needy?" Ugh. I've always thought that being wanted was a prize worth waiting for (any gender). (:

Well, here it is.

Zster comments on Jul 14, 2018:

Awww, lovely picture! (thanks for sharing it). You spoke for MANY of us with: "it's really just not that easy. No, it's not as hard as it used to be. But that doesnt mean it doesnt still suck." Sending you many hugs on your sadiversary.

Friday the 13th, June, 1952 Dorothy and I were married in Fort Wayne Indiana.

Zster comments on Jul 14, 2018:

I am sorry that it was a sad one for you, tfg.

Value of a moment.❤

Zster comments on Jul 14, 2018:

Very true. This had taught me to treasure the moments when I am in them.

I still miss you❤

Zster comments on Jul 13, 2018:

Yep.

How do you feel about religious music being played in a gym?

Zster comments on Jul 13, 2018:

If I heard it while visiting, considering joining, such would be a reason NOT to join that gym. To find out after signing a contract, I might send a letter stating that the music choice was a problem and that I would not be renewing the membership. In the meantime, I would bring my iPod.

OK ape folk, I believe the relevance of these lyrics has never been more true. [youtu.be]

Zster comments on Jul 13, 2018:

One of the best! I saw them twice in the 80s ("State of Confusion" tour). One of my top concerts ever!

Just a curiosity, how many of you would send a letter in the mail?

Zster comments on Jul 12, 2018:

I occasionally write snail mail letters. It really depends on the preference of the intended recipient.

I do not use these, how many of you do?

Zster comments on Jul 12, 2018:

Around here, one is almost forced to use them as often there is only one manned checkout open.

Propane or charcoal for summer grilling?

Zster comments on Jul 12, 2018:

Charcoal for flavor, by a long shot. Propane is a nice convenience though, especially when time is in short supply.

What is your tea of choice?

Zster comments on Jul 12, 2018:

As one who does not tolerate tea caffeine, I really have to limit myself to herbal, rooibos, or white. Of the whites, I like white jasmine and white chai the best, so far.

Who here enjoys herbal tea?

Zster comments on Jul 11, 2018:

I LOVE herbal teas! I drink them due to caffeine sensitivity. Red Zinger is my fave, followed by mint, lemon spice, and various blends from Teavana.

Does anybody here have a burning desire to ditch society, leave everything behind and go and live?

Zster comments on Jul 11, 2018:

Yes, very much so! I have to fight to stay the course until retirement (months to age 55!).

Do you have a "5 year plan"?

Zster comments on Jul 10, 2018:

I am an ENFP. I am lucky to pull together a one WEEK plan!

Those of you previously married. How likely are you to marry again or are you put off completely?

Zster comments on Jul 10, 2018:

I had a terrific marriage (which was ended by cancer). I doubt I could expect such good fortune again. That said, my reasons for being less likely to marry again have little to do with my previous marriage, and a ton to do with the religious trying to own it.

Two weeks ago a man I had been seeing for the last couple of months broke up with me.

Zster comments on Jul 10, 2018:

Extreme cowardice on his part, perhaps? Sorry this happened to you. ):