Any creeks or decent parks to sit around and drink my beer and read around here?

Zster comments on Mar 6, 2018:

I do in Georgia or Indiana, but not Kansas, sorry!

Widowed? Any experience?

Zster comments on Mar 6, 2018:

Yep. I was widowed in 2006 by cancer. Have stayed single since, raising our kids. The youngest graduates this year! Religious platitudes can be terrible. I found strength in an online group, widda.org. Sorry that you had to join the widow ranks.

Funny animals

Zster comments on Mar 6, 2018:

That is fabulous!

Do you own any exercise equipment or props?

Zster comments on Mar 6, 2018:

I used to have a rowing machine and free weights. Stopped using them, joibed a gym, and now have dumbells, stretchy bands, and medicine balls.

Styff Kytten?

Zster comments on Mar 6, 2018:

Jasper's entry for March 6:

Our newest little family member, Helix.

Zster comments on Mar 6, 2018:

We are going to need regular updates, with Helix videos!

Cancer cure(s)

Zster comments on Mar 6, 2018:

No. Two reasons: 1. People working in Pharma lose loved ones to cancer same as everyone else. 2. A cure would be worth more than witholding it could ever pay.

Can you cook?

Zster comments on Mar 6, 2018:

Three generations taught me how to cook as I was growing up. I love to cook, but have limited time due to work and kids. Over the holidays, I tend to cook from early morning until past midnight. My freezers are just now gaining some space back after being packed full by holiday cooking.

Stephen King fans?

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

"The Stand" wins for me, hands down! I liked "It", too.

In my defense, the dog bit me first.

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

THAT got a laugh out of me! Who won?

How long should a question be?

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

My answer has to be "as long as is needed to ask it. No more. No less. As to giant walls of text. I do not have the time for long reads in a forum format. I tend to visit blogs for those.

A VERY important question... so, what are you having for dinner this evening?

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

Assorted finger foods left in the freezer from the Super Bowl: taquitos, spinaka tiropita, leek pies, and samosas. Quite tasty!

WEIRSDALE, Fla.

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

Shared.

Anyone here a Doctor Who fan? Bonus question, anyone a /Classic/ Doctor Who fan?

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

Was a huge fan in college and did by the 50th annivetsary bit. Classic? Yes! Tom Baker fan, big time!

Any asexuals out there?

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

Does she know of your asexuality and understand it? Is there an expectation that way? I sympathize with your feeling drawn while being ace. I am not ace per se, but understand wanting companionship without sexual pressure.

Needed a smile today :)

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

LOL! That works for me!

Our newest little family member, Helix.

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

Put your seat belt on!! He looks like FUN!!!!

This guy was found one rainy may day as an abandoned 3week old..

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

What a coat!! Is he Maine Coon? (or big like one)?

We talk about movies and music a lot but never art so, what is your favorite piece of art?

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

I am a huge fan of modern art and of a lot of sculpture. I could not possibly name just one piece, but definitely favor A. Giacometti's, especislly his lone cat (which was based on his brother Diego's):

We talk about movies and music a lot but never art so, what is your favorite piece of art?

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

I am a huge fan of modern art and of a lot of sculpture. I could not possibly name just one piece, but definitely favor A. Giacometti's, especislly his lone cat (which was based on his brother Diego's):

I just passed the “miracle” year in my recovery.

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

That should not piss ANYone off! It's YOUR recovery (and is apparently working). I'm super glad that you've found something that works. Many are a lot less fortunate. Congrats on your year!

I found out last night my ex best friend passed away.

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

Wow, that's awful! I am sorry that you lost her.

My brain rides like it's on a Cadillac suspension...

Zster comments on Mar 5, 2018:

THAT is awesome!

Eric Bolling Shares Heartbreaking Story About His Son's Overdose

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

One of my favorite cousins had been opiate addicted for years. Two of her sons are similarly addicted and deal the stuff, even sell it to the parents. What a mess!

Have you ever been on a strict diet?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

I have naturally super high triglycerides, so HAD to make changes or plan on dieing young. I was told to reduce carbs. I already exercise (bulging discs) and avoid processed foods after watching cancer kill my husband. Like you, I used My Fitness Pal to track. It's a terrific TEACHER! I learned what adjustments to make to balance macros etc. I also use the recipe feature to avoid convenience foods (processed and suoer high carbs, typically) and make my own. I am more than willing to talk details if you want to. An accountability buddy is never a bad idea for me.

Do you bring lunch to work or eat out?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

I precook lots of lunches and freeze then, then run home for lunch.

A question for the ages: does he know I'm sick or does he just want attention?? cough cough sniffle

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

My impression is that they know something is wrong and that it worries them. Wishful thinking perhaps, but...

A Sunday meme for Y'all...

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Nooo! I wont give it up without a fight!

Statements or Questions

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

I enjoy both. I LOVE to be asked questions and formulating thoughtful responses and I like getting to fire my own questions back. The getting-to-know-someone phase is positively engrossing for me.

What is your favorite kind of coffee, and how do you like it?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

I love a smokey very dark roast, even espresso. I love it as espresso (fine grind in my espresso maker) or coarse ground and brewed in a french press. I add a little creme and sugar, and like to pair it with a bite or two of smoothe dark chocolate.

I'll just apologize now, lol

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Ha! No apology needed!

What's the first thing you look at?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Eyes, and smile. I like to check out hair, but, as I get older am not so hung up on that as the younger me was. Longer hair still does catch my eye, silver hair is nice, and none is fine, too. Beards and mustaches interest me quite a bit. Beyond that, general build and how a guy carries himself can draw me in. It's largely about projection of persona: quiet confidence, a sense of fun or even mischief, and intense curiosity can be a fascinating combo together or separately.

What causes horror music to run through your head?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Unexpected phone calls from the high school.

Parenting

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Lol, I ordered pizza almost immediately after the killer heartburn and diabetic diet that I was on for nine months.

The Adventures of Missy Girl: Part Three (For some reason can't always load pictures, or enough ...

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

I run into trouble now and then, too. The admins say there are some bugs around posting picts, esp within comments for some reason.

Winter comes and goes, but Monday always shows up every damned week!

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Man, I clicked on that with lightning speed, eager to see anything GOT oriented! F-ck Mondays! ):

What did you want to be when you were younger?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

A scientist who does documentaries, with strong leanings toward ecological fieldwork. Had the weather channel launched earlier, I might havecwanted tobtry meteorology.

Kilts anyone?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Yep, just plain fun to think about. You know, the breeze and all... ????

As it get's later on Sunday...

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Nooooooooo!!!!!

That's good advertising

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

I really thought so, too!

I need this pillowcase:

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Awesome!

Don't take life too serious. Find something to laugh about daily!

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

I agree eighty gazillion percent!!!! Maybe more.

This is a question for women who have been through a break-up, divorce, or death of a spouse.

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Yes!! Immediately post cancer, I went hyper girly as a form of rebellion and, possibly out of self preservation (old couple stuff ripped my emotions in an excruciating way). I initially thought that your post was logical given that you are preparing to seek dates. I have not felt compelled to likewise seek, BUT have splurged on some decadence for myself simply because small things can make me feel good, and I can use all of the feel-goods that I can manage. In my case, I see it as doing kind things for myself that another used to do for me, if that makes sense.

When is a good time to look for romance. As I never seem to have luck in finding the perfect partner

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Never. I don't seek or I am likely to force myself to find which very likely means settling. A good match will find me in the course of living life, possibly drawn to me living mine well or in an otherwise fascinating way.

Relationship Traits for over 50 dating

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Intelligence, kindness, and sense of humor. Why? 1 - I've had people assume that I am some intellectual snob due to my education and career. 2 - I am turned off by meanness, selfishness, intolerance, bigotry, etc. 3 - Humor is largely how I view and relate to the world. I really gravitate toward others who tend to not take things too seriously, either. (I also tend to drive super serious types mad with my seemingly cavalier approach).

The Pine Siskins are back!!! My wallet is weeping.

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Here, they commingle with winter plumed gold finches. Their sheer numbers (noisy and ravenous!) are my first tip off. The striped bellies are confirming.

For those of you who drink bulletproof coffee, can you share your best recipes?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Bullet proof as in high caffeine? Or as in dark roast, heavy bodied? My best tasting coffee results from freshly grinding a smokey espresso roast coarsely in a hand cranked burr grinder, steeped with 205degF water in a french press for five minutes. I add some creme and sugar, and nibble on a square of Ghiradeli 72% cocoa dark chocolate, while enjoying the coffee. I recommend this ritual most highly! (: Note: I've had to curb my caffeine (it worsened fibro-cystic breast changes) and so blend about 80% decaf beans with 20% regular espresson beans. Also note: coarse grinding is for the french press brew method. To make a true espresso, one uses a fine grind in an espresso machine.

Does unconditional love exist?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Yes, I love unconditionally. My kids can hurt, disappoint, or confuse me, but I STILL love them. Same goes for my husband, parents, sibling.

When and where were you happiest?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

In my late thirties, once both kids were out of diapers, we had tons of fun as a family. Where? On waterfront camping trips, mostly, with my husband away from work. This was always best when the fish were biting. (;

Why did you get married?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

We wanted to spend almost all of our free time together, even during the mundane. I now realize we could have done that without a license. Back then, though, married couples were treated much more kindly socially than couples "living in sin" were. If I was to meet someone now, I am not sure about the license as I deeply resent others thinking that they get to decide whether or not my living and loving is legit or not. The only hesitation I might have would relate to the legality of any inheritance preference following my demise. Sometimes that piece of paper greatly simplifies the estate/probate process.

Fact, Fiction or Both

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

The article makes broad alarming claims without letting us evaluate the evidence for those claims ourselves (no citations). It's one thing to say "linked to cancer", but without explaining how that was tested or the numerical results, we cannot deduce the significance. Also, BST does not keep cows in lactation. Keeping cows bred does. BST increases milk production, once in lactation. One blatant falsehood like this makes me doubt the article even more. It IS true that in other regulatory environments (EU, Japan, etc), food additives tend to get banned that are allowed by the FDA. The writers just undermined their own credibility to an extent that somewhat casts that in doubt, which is too bad.

Hummus , made yesterday under difficult circumstances.

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Man! That sounds good!

I have a bird feeder on my patio.

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

GREAT idea!!! My genius son just suggested that we set up our best window as a cat lounge. We have elevated sleep surfaces for seven cats and seven birdfeeders at viewing height. It's a rather popular spot!

My kitties.

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Beautiful babies!

Styff Kytten?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Not to be out done by Jasper, Bailey occasionally contributes:

So this should be fun.

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

I speak to my own experience rather than advise people of theirs. Seems to generally work.

There was this meme going around on Facebook today asking what five films you think a potential ...

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

"Life of Brian" "Sleeper" or "Take the Money and Run" (tie) "2010" "Chasing Amy" "The Abyss" Runners up, some real close: "Inception" "Harold and Maude" "Frequency" "The Fisher King" "Being John Malkovich" "Midnight in Paris" This collection makes a great screening tool as the response to most give some insight to values that one holds vs mine.

Direct or Indirect lighting?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Indirect lighting. Coarse ground for french press, fine for espresso. Dark chocolate makes almost anything superior. I have strong preferences, but enjoy evolving them or learning more. That's part of the adventure!

Is anyone doing anything cool for St. Patrick's Day?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

I'll be attending my father's memorial that day (was scheduled a couple months post passing due to flakey northern weather). It will be nice to see many relatives who I don't see often. Being a sober alki, drinking alcohol wont be part of it.

Anyone spent their lives believing they are cis hetero, and that everyone else is just like them, ...

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

I saw gender as a spectrum, back in my youth, and was perplexed that stating as much made some people violently angry. I had numerous gay or bi relatives and at least one trans relative. So, it also made sense that attraction was likewise a wide spectrum. I automatically am attracted to whom I am attracted to. There was never any plot or grand plan. I am very relieved that society more openly accepts nuances, rather than pigeon holing people into preconceived, inflexible roles..

Just finished a great sci-fi mystery/thriller.

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Maybe you'll get hooked like I did. (:

Any Hamilfans here?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

It's what Weird Al is known for. Quite the leap in adaptation for a hip hop musical.

This is my daughters Snowshoe. Isn't he stunning?

Zster comments on Mar 4, 2018:

Beautiful face!

FedX or UPS?

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

I had OVER 100% failure rate with FedEx. Not only did they manage to glitch EVERY shipment of mine, they even called me to urge me to file a claim for a damaged shipment that was not even mine! UPS's costs have sky rocketed while the quality of their service has nose dived. That leaves USPS. (:

How do you go about the subject of religion with your child?

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

I share my experience and ever changing thoughts on the topic, as do my parents. I've taken them to a few types of churches, long enough to connect a bit. I encourage them to read up on it and assure them that whatever path they choose wrt matters of the spirit, I will love them and hope that they can find happiness in it. I've also made certain to convey that they can change their minds along the way. That is often where growth occurs. We have relatives who are uber religious. We discuss that, too. The kids don't hear me mock or belittle any of it.

I can remember 15 passwords, 5 or 10 phone numbers, addresses I lived at years ago and piles if ...

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

It's utterly maddening! If you find a cure, could you let me in on it, please?

One of my favorite albums of all time turns 45yo this month.

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

Happy birthday Dark Side!!!!

When you see a post that reads 'Adult Content', what comes to mind?

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

Human adult nudity, for some reason.

LOL China vows to crack down on funeral strippers [independent.co.uk]

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

Darned killjoys!

Expression via a balanced breakfast

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

Quisp. I have no explanation as to why, but also zero doubt that Quisp would be it. Freakies was an awesome answer, BTW.

Go for a ride? (Even the neighbor's dog wanted to go!)

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

Definitely NOT the response that my cats give me when asked the exact same question.

Music is unique.

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

I am drawn to beat and then instrumentation. Listening to lyrics is almost an afterthought. I am currently listening my Lord Huron station on Pandora. It's getting too mellow, though. I need to switch to the J Roddy Walston and the Business channel, which packs a lot more rocking blues. However, the Roku remote is WAY over there and I am paralyzed by a cat on my lap...

DST Daylight Savings Time, do you like it?

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

I live pretty far east in our time zone. While dark mornings suck, sunlight until 9:30PM is a jam! I moved from a state w no DST and hated it. Daylight was wasted starting by 5AM, IMO.

Do you have a down comforter? Do you like them?

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

I've had the same down comforter for over a decade. I positively love it!

Hi everyone

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

Hi!

What do you look for the most in a partner or friend?

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

Intelligence, confidence, humor, and kindness.

How strict were your parents?

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

Dad was completely passive, almost never having anything to do with disciplining us. Mom was THE law in the household. She was semi strict at best. We had an insane amount of freedom, but such was typical of most house holds back in the 1970s. The neat thing was that we were a VERY conversant family. We talked through everything and anything. We keep the communication channels wide open to this day. My children and I do likewise.

OPNIONS

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

Modern times highlight that what constitutes a healthy family for raising children goes well beyond the traditional nuclear family. A home where kids are loved, can rely on the adults, have consistency etc... trumps a family full of discord, strife, uncertainty, inconsistency, and even threat. When I was a kid, the lone divorced family in the school was the town scandal! My kids are surrounded by kids being raised by grandparents, single parents, same sex parents, aunts/uncles... and most are turning out quite well.

Are you the only nonreligious person in your family? Or are some or all of them nonreligious?

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

My parents fell away from their original more traditional chtistianity. They claim to no longer believe in a theistic god, but I think they use the term god to refer to what connects!the universe, if not a grey haired dude in the sky. I have no idea if or what my only brother believes. His wife claims to be catholic, but is nonattending/nonpracticing. The rest were/are still believers, many fundamental.

Ok, I know I'm weird.

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

You just might be onto something...

What’s one of your guilty pleasures?

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

Dark chocolate. A small bit every day with my afternoon coffee or tea.

What's the next fun thing you plan to do?

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

First up, a new breakfast cereal... Beyond that, we'll see where the wind takes us. I might go disc golf today.

Hi everyone! I'm new to the site and new to New Mexico. When do you open the pools here?

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

Welcome! What part of NM did you land in? (my brother has lived in Albq., Taos, and Gallup).

Word up, howdy, hello and good day.

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

Top of the morning!

I'm new to this website and just trying to see what it's about.

Zster comments on Mar 3, 2018:

"Shiggles"? I HAD to click on that! Nearly sh-t myself upon seeing your profile pic, though!

Do you make your bed every day? Why or why not?

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

Yes. I HAVE to. I have four cats (so, 18 x 4 claws) and a full wave waterbed mattress that is VERY susceptible to punctures. I will add, making said bed takes less than ten seconds. I fanfold (accordian style) my comforters over on the edge when I go to bed. In the AM, I grab the edge of the comforters and pull them across the bed. Voila! Made!

Parents: What is the one thing that your kids do that pushes your buttons? Why?

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

Leave dirty dishes everywhere, then complain when fire ants come in the house. Sigh.

What's the best thing about being single?

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

Decision making is ridiculously simple. Plus my grocery bill pretty reasonable.

My 12-yo daughter revealed to me yesterday that she’s gay. Should I...

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

My daughter (now 20) is gay and ace. I just reinforce that I love her and hope she meets someone who fits into her life if/as she wants.

What is your favorite kind of cheese to eat?

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

Cambazola, Black Label. Close seconds: Fromager d'Affinois, and Saint Angel triple creme brie. I adore gooey French cheese!

Is it a bad thing that I'm sitting here watching "The Chronicles of Riddick" for the umpteenth time ...

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

Many 70s and 80s comedies (like "Holy Grail", "Life of Brian", "Blazing Saddles", "The Jerk", "Arthur", "The Money Pit", "Sleeper", "Take the Money and Run", etc...).

Am I the only one that doesn't watch TV?

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

Cut the cord years ago. Have not missed it.

C'mon people now, smile on your brother, everybody get together, try to love one another right now!

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

A classic!

Where do you like to buy most of your food?

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

I got to shop at Sprouts while visiting Marietta a few weeks back. It's awesome! Like you, I have to hit numerous stores to get all that's on my list.

[youtube.com] Anyone want some epic Finnish metal for a long commute? lol

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

I thought you meant Apocalyptica... (some of the best metal cellists that Finland's ever produced). https://youtu.be/NbtR-_u9w9I

[youtube.com] I can't get enough of this... M.I.A.

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

That is seriously cool! Love the choreo. I enjoy this: (same artist, yes?) https://youtu.be/ewRjZoRtu0Y

I'm a new kid on the block.

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

Sorry that you had to join the club that no one ever wants to belong to (Widowhood). I was widowed by cancer 11 years ago, and became more open in my disbelief shortly after. I greatly enjoy this site. Hopefully you will find things to like here, too! Welcome!

Would you consider dating a boss or is it a bad idea?

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

Very, very bad idea. Our company has a policy forbidding it.

I saw this little guy today

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

What a cutie!!!

I wonder if you think sugar is a bad product?

Zster comments on Mar 2, 2018:

Small amounts are fine. It becomes a problem when I do not get to control how much. SO many processed foods have had too much added. Give me unsweetened and let me "sweeten to taste" and I'll do just fine, thank you. For example: When I make my own soda syrups from scratch, I end up using 20% of the sugar that commercial syrups contain. Mine still taste sweet enough without being sickeningly so. Also, a tsp in coffee only adds 15 calories. We simply don't need to overdo it.