Yeah, sometimes. Recently I've been saying "Soitenly!" like Curly from The Three Stooges when someone thanks me.
TNP loves TTS.
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Yeah, sometimes. Recently I've been saying "Soitenly!" like Curly from The Three Stooges when someone thanks me.
TNP loves TTS.
Well, sure! Even more enthusiastically, yes. I unironically love Ted Healy and his Stooges.
TNP can name off the top of his or her head three famous entertainers (no, politicians don't count) who swapped the birth name "Horowitz" (or "Horvitz," or whatever transliteration) for something else. And will do so. In TNPost.
Hmm, no. Vladimir Horowitz, the great pianist, kept the name; I don't think I know of anyone who swapped it for something else.
TNP, however, can name three who did.
I guess. Winona Ryder née Horowitz, and Moe, Curly, Shemp Horwitz.
TNP would refuse to submit to last-minute demands for, for example, a random UA test on one's weekend, knowing that the consequences comprise only an extension of the "treatment." For the reason that one is or should be unwilling to reschedule weekend plans and subject oneself to a regimen of systemic dehydration in order to satisfy the lab requirements for a "non-dilute" sample. And, yes, today happens to be an important day in many Xian liturgical calendars.
Yeah, sure, why not?
TNP ate a chocolate bunny (or more) on Easter Sunday.
Nah, but did have some M & Ms.
TNP has a favourite type of M & M.
No, I really don't think the different colors taste differently. I do prefer peanut to plain, though.
TNP thinks the cashew is the most wonderful edible small nut in the world.
They're pretty good, no doubt about it.
But has one ever had a cashew apple? You know, the big pseudo-fruit which bears the cashew nut? Free to those who can afford it, very expensive to those who cannot.
I have not, but maybe TNP has?
Not this NP! I rather doubt most nobody has had no cashew apple these parts. Very fragile and delicate.
TNP thinks there's not a good day goes by without at least a passing admiration of some aspect of one's preferred gender, especially if the person to whom that aspect belongs is not a regular intimate. A little harmless zest without lechery, if one will.
Oh, definitely. "A pretty girl is like a melody...." I'm always happy to see one, even as I behave, of course, like a perfect gentleman.
TNP is in the mood for pizza.
Actually, sort of. After a bag of potato chips ("Tim's Smoked Gouda Thins") trying to chug this disgusting magnum of Liberty Creek cabernet sauvignon (mixed with water and electrolyte powder....I could have a random EtG UA as early as Tuesday, so have to get rid of it).
Yeah, a pizza probably could be good. Either that or slice open a baguette, douse it with olive oil, and loads of garlic and cook it. Either way, same thing, pretty much. Bread, spices, fat, hot.
TNP has recently cleaned some dust off (or in as well, using an electronic contact cleaner...optional!) a piece of equipment or furniture, and was surprised (and displeased) by how dusty things can get.
Yes, my car key fob, when I changed the battery. A whole lotta pocket lint had accumulated in there.
TNP has changed a battery lately.
Half of my life is spent recharging batteries or figuring out ways to recharge them in an expeditious manner. Don't even talk to me about batteries! So, I suppose the answer is "Yes." I literally cannot enter and start my vehicle in order to work without the use of these bastard batteries.
TNP has ever woken up in the morning, took a good long look in the mirror prior to shaving and donning the attire, and just said out loud, "No."
LOL. No, I've looked askance at myself, but I've never said out loud, "No."
TNP owns a pink shirt.
Uhhh.....yeah, I think I do. It's kind of a pink dress shirt with a subtle checkered pattern. Maybe more if I I count T-shirts or something....not sure. I do have three red button-up "dress" shirts, though...Pentecost is a coming, don'tcha know? Red's sort of pink, innit?
TNP thinks a day without wearing red undershorts is like a day without sunshine! Gotta have it!
If that's true, then I've been in the dark for a very, very long time.
TNP needs some chocolate, stat.
Nah, been cutting way, way, back.
TNP needs a haircut.
Yeah, probably. I usually get one at the start of each month, and it's just about time.
TNP has read Replay by Ken Grimwood, a very cool sf book about living your life over and over.
No I have not! It does sound intriguing, but my book pile is pretty full up at the moment, unfortunately (depending on how one looks at it!)
TNP thinks it's perfectly fine to leave an outgoing voicemail message that says: "The personal voicemail box belonging to <insert name> closes at 1700 every day, and I can be reached after 1100 the following day via telephone. I can be reached at <insert company>'s Chime or internal e-mail at any time in case of emergency." (Knowing full well that any friends or family have access to a separate phone number). Just to keep the wolves, real or imaginary, at bay. Or at least thinks that's a reasonably clever way to avoid dealing with people/companies who have specific instructions to never contact me after 1700.
Corollary: TNP is still confounded by those who think using 24-hour time all day, every day, is somehow odd or confusing.
Yeah, that'd be fine with me, although some people seem to get flummoxed by the use of military time.
TNP has used the word "Zulu" to refer to GMT.
All the time. Don't know why, exactly, but my favorite watch has a GMT subdial I think of as "Zulu dial," because it's shorter for the voice in my head to "pronounce." When absolutely necessary, though, I'll say "Greenwich Mean Time" if I'm pointlessly nerding out about time to somebody who probably doesn't know the terms UTC or Zulu time.
TNP has a strong preference for either (i) cloth/nylon strap (for example, a NATO strap) (ii) leather band (iii) metal bracelet (iv) other when it comes to watch bands. And will say what that preference is!
I long preferred a leather band as being the classiest option, but I have to admit I haven't worn a watch for the past few years. These days I just look at my cellphone if I need the time.
TNP has special plans for Mother's Day.
Sort of. I texted my mom and said blah blah all that this morning! Also we were missing at work several of my coworkers who are young mothers (I did *not* say MILF! they are valued coworkers and friends!)....which sucked, because two of them happen to be some of the strongest coworkers. So that "plan" resulted in my getting stuck with a total of three competent coworkers.
(Aside: yeah, I guess leather bands are more formal than metal bracelets. That seems clear....still....I don't get the whole "dragging the cellphone out of a pocket to see what time it is" vs just a discreet glance at one's wrist! Well, like someone told Jack Burton once, the world is not here for me to "get.")
TNP has about had it with stinkbugs coming out of dormancy and appearing unbidden in one's car, for example, or elsewhere. No, I don't mean box elder bugs/maple seed bugs, which are equally annoying, but stink bugs. And houseflies, as well. Could do without, TNP could!
I've only seen a stinkbug or two here in recent years, and they're easily caught and released outside. They've actually never made a stink around me, and I kinda like their angular, alien shape.
TNP is looking forward to a new movie in the next week or two.
Not really. Not that I can think of off-hand...maybe something I forgot about. I'm more looking forward to when HBO Max "Max" fixes their server issues and lets me log in and see the series finale of the show Barry.
TNP thinks it might be worth saving $64 USD (including shipping, all that) for a set of handmade reproduction Hammond organ bass pedals with MIDI capabilities to go for a 16-pedal unit, versus a 24-pedal unit. Given that jazz on the Hammond organ, the bass is used in a fairly limited sense to a restricted set of lower tones.
OTOH, bigger is better!
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/5...d0da66f366.jpg
vs
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/5...425c782af8.jpg
If that's what you want, I'd say go for it! "Bigger is better" is not always the wisest approach to things, but sometimes it is.
For a good recent organ piece, TNP can think of few better than Booker T. Jones's "The Cool Dude": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KCKHCtHUywg
Nope. From 2000, when it seems that was recorded to now, there have been a handful of remarkable Hammond organ recordings, but none "better." Certainly not better. Nobody who plays the organ (you know, in a jazz/pop way) today would dare make the claim that they could smoke Booker T! Can't be done! That would be to laugh!
TNP has a slight preference for jazz guitar played by the greatest of the classic players to that of the great saxophone players. Based purely on tone and various musical/idiomatic things that are possible on each instrument.
No, I played the alto sax in junior high and still love the sound.
TNP has a musical instrument, at least as big as a clarinet, in the house right now.
Well, I guess the keyboard, which mostly use as a desk, counts.
TNP has an opinion about what the best gin is.
Sure! Whatever costs the most, probably!
TNP can answer the same about Scotch whiskies (too large a variance among different styles, so let's say within one region/style).
No, I don't have all that sophisticated a palate when it comes to hard liquor. I am partial to Johnnie Walker Black Label, however, as I've written here before.
TNP has drunk eggnog other than in December.
No! Too....eggy....or something. I have had cheap whiskey mixed with orange juice recently, though! That's sort of the same thing, I guess. (Well, in my mind it is....it's festive or something).
(Nothing wrong with Johnnie Black! I wouldn't say my palate for Irish and Scotches is anything extraordinary, but I've been up and down the shelves pretty thoroughly and am never disappointed in the "smoky Johnnie"!)
TNP would ever consider taking a job that starts at 0120 (in the morning), if the rewards were exceptional enough (within reason).
Probably not now that I'm old, but sure, when I was young.
TNP has had a recent change in their sleep patterns.
Yes, I should regularly be going to bed sooner than I have been lately.
TNP has seen an IMAX movie in the past month.
No. I've seen a laser light show or several when I was a kid in high-school. Don't know or care anything about IMAX or 3D and stuff. Just the facts. Ever since William Castle left the scene, nothing can tingle me.
TNP has a good suggestion for comfortable shoes that are not (a) slip-on loafers (these Lands' End suede shoes are OK, but apt to introduce bits of debris between the inner sole and the foot) (b) sneakers (c) can be worn with jeans, but aren't sneakers or trail runners.
Hmm, no, I don't think I can. Nothing that meets all of your criteria.
TNP is really tired right now.
Pretty much always.
TNP has been having really bizarre dreams, pretty much every night.
No, relatively rarely. My dreams are more often only slightly odd, or even pleasant.
TNP has dreamed of falling in the past month.
Well, close enough, I've had nightmares (not true "night terrors") about various scenarios at work now and in the near projected future.
TNP could probably be a little nicer when "reminding" coworkers of how it is, but does not think carrot is better than stick in terms of motivating or informing people of proper conduct. Because, of course, once everyone knows about standard procedure, they'll obviously adhere to my standards, provided they've been given the lash and a strong directive with no fancy talk.
No, I'll go with the carrot just about every time. But if discipline must be imposed, it should be stepped and appropriate to the infraction.
TNP is a little chilly right now.
A bit, yeah. Air conditioning is pretty cool in the home office.
TNP is going through more than usual stress, either home or work.
Yep. You name it: ludicrous pissing matches among frenemies and straight-up enemies at work. Covering for the "shop foreman" (more or less that's what you'd call the job) tomorrow and the day after....involves a bunch of kind of irritating paperwork/spreadsheet work/sending data via the company's proprietary messaging application....as well some simple physical tasks (various things, checking DOT certifications for various drivers, &c.)
Among other various stressors.
TNP has recently, perhaps unwisely, gone on a pretty medium-sized shopping spree at a retailer.
Actually, I did, at a Brooks Brothers outlet store that I don't often get to, several hours' drive from here. Got some shirts and other stuff for a good price.
TNP has at least one Brooks Brothers item in his or her closet.
No, afraid not. There is not only an outlet near-ish me, as well as at least one retail store, but word on the street is that one should be cautious and watch for the good stuff from Brooks Brothers. I been more after shoes lately, because I'm secretly a lady who enjoys good footwear.
TNP will name one good thing and one bad thing about wearing slip-on shoes (loafers, moccasins, Chelsea boots, whatever). Outside shoes, you know. TNP must say both good and bad! Extra points for example(s).
One good thing: they're easy to slip off and on under your desk, where no one can see you letting your feet breathe a bit. One bad thing: sometimes they can be too casual for the occasion (although I suppose that's true of any shoes).
TNP has at least three pairs of slip-on shoes of any kind.
I guess. Some OK Chelsea boots, some nice suede loafers (OK, for lounging around, but not really for walking, even on sidewalks....grit finds its way inside the shoe which is unpleasant), and a few pairs of black leather slip-on shoes with no adornments. I particularly like this new pair of Florsheim Chelsea boots, since the shape of the last/sole/whatever they call it is suitable for punching out basslines on the Hammond organ pedals. Some people wear socks or barefoot, but my feet are so beat up that I can't do it without shoes....probably lose a toe or something.
TNP doesn't consider an object/tool/whatever fully complete, once owned, unless it is accompanied by a proper case for it.
That's often for the best, yes.
TNP saw a seagull today.
Negative! There was a bird flew into my delivery station and one of my bosses (I'm filling in for his right-hand man somewhat often these days) during a quiet moment of staring at spreadsheets asked, "Hey, John, can you catch a bird?" Never saw it, though. Put gloves on tried to stalk this imaginary bird, though.
TNP has ever woken up and found a couple of mice (even just one will can't) either drowned or struggling to escape (or both!) in a water glass on one's desk (or wherever).
Fortunately not. I've found a few caught overnight in our floor or countertop kitchen traps, though.
TNP thinks a spider may have bitten him or her overnight while sleeping.
Probably not, but not for lack of trying. Somewhat doubt many of my beloved house or garden spiders have the mandibles or the desire to pierce skin, but I was bitten by a brown recluse as a child. One leg swelled up to about twice its normal size. That was out in the country, though, a long time ago.
TNP would rather (i) buy a new speaker cabinet (ii) a new guitar (or whatever, like a mandolin or a melodica or whatever) (iii) some new clothes. If given those only choices. And will explain the reasoning.
Alternate TNP, TNP thinks trading the Bluesmobile for a microphone makes sense.
New clothes. Just bought a new blue blazer after my other one (30+ years old) wore out and a tailor told me it wasn't worth fixing.
TNP needs some caffeine right now.
Meh, that's a gimme! I always need more caffeine.
[For shame! No man should be without a navy blazer, regardless of his or her choice of buttons [I favor dark metal]...always thought a decent blazer is pretty much indestructable! Yes, my "classic" navy blazer is from Jos. A Bank, so not fancy, but it fits perfectly...expect it to last for twenty years.]
TNP would probably join Amazon's "Vine" program if invited (they send you free stuff, and you have to review it....however, one is obligated to pay taxes on these "gifts," which can be substantial indeed in terms of list price). Obligated in terms of IRS and state taxes, that is.
No, we're Amazon Prime members but don't think we'll do Vine.
TNP has vines growing on an old building near his or her home.
Sure. Not an old building, but a relatively old condominium "community" dating back to probably the 1970s. So, not old, but English Ivy is a persistent problem. Not a single-dwelling unit, but more like clusters of annoying neighbors grouped together in separate buildings consisting of four units, or perhaps more.
I suspect the deer mice find the various vines and such very attractive and convenient, and I wish them well. LOL. No, I do not.
TNP will be attending a wedding in the near-ish future, or has recently, and is (or was) somewhat looking forward to it. Catch up with some friends in a relaxed setting, wearing regular clothes (you know, probably for me navy blazer, necktie, leather shoes and belt, impeccable charcoal grey woolen trousers....about the right level of formality for the event, to be held at a Mormon whatever they call it for a septuagenarian coworker).
I always enjoy weddings - the romance, the music, the chance to visit with people you don't see often enough, the food and drink - but no, I don't have one coming up anytime soon. Haven't been to one since my niece's in Columbus, Ohio, late last summer.
TNP will be going out to a musical or play in the next seven days (as I will, tomorrow night, to see Six).
No. I wish there were something dramatic "playing" near me I'd be interested in, but given the level of "humanity" in my neck of the woods I've witnessed daily over the past several years, I'm very much disinclined to mingle with the masses. I just don't want to be around these people any more. Work and go home, pay table time at a proper pool hall, and organize my condo. Make time with a few gals, maybe. One at a time, you know: not no cad.
These words from the motion picture *Jackie Brown* TNP thinks should be taken seriously: "Now, Jackie, I hope you don't mind if I call you Jackie, you're officially out of trouble now. So don't go do nothing stupid." (paraphrase from memory, close enough for jazz). And if those words resonate, TNP can say why and how.
No, I don’t have a resonate thing going on, although it’s good dialogue.
TNP tends to watch several movies a week.
No, one a week or so for me, on average - sometimes even less often. Then I go to a film festival and pack a lot in.
TNP remembers and appreciates, in a gallows-humor kind of way, Louis's answer to persistent questioning by Ordell in Jackie Brown, as to whether Melanie was dead: "Pretty much, yeah."
Yeah, I got it right here in my Raptor bag.
TNP wouldn't have much of a problem pushing a mouse found in one's kitchen sink into a running garbage disposal. Not a pet, but a pest.
Ew, no, thanks! That seems cruel to me. I have put trapped mice in a metal box in the freezer to die, though, knowing that if I released them outside they'd just find their way back in.
On a lighter note... TNP has at least two bags of Doritos in the house.
Nope. Got a Whopper sandwich and a glass of Tullamore whiskey, though. Simil......no, not really similar. But not one but *two* bags of Doritos! That's living high and wide, my friend!
[aside: I disagree my method of execution of the mouse was especially cruel. It was going to die anyway....I probably would have found a heavy piece of wood and bludgeoned it. Sorry, but I really can't have mice in my place! I don't enjoy the killing, but this joint ain't big enough for both us species, AFAIC!]
TNP kind of goes apeshit when he or she sees brakelights on the freeway: under the reality that there are relatively few circumstances they are needed provided drivers are capable of looking at least a few hundred feet ahead and leaving an acceptable amount of space (which latter, incidentally, allows people to move at a steady speed with a minimum of grabassery in the lanes).
It does make me uneasy sometimes, yes, especially if everyone's moving fast and the taillights appear for no apparent good reason.
TNP has read a really good book recently, or is doing so now.
Well, I would say "pretty good." It's been months I've been reading a few pages at a time. It lives in my car, for waiting for appointments and such. Walter Tevis's The Color Of Money. No, it is nothing like the movie at all, but it has a certain charm to it.
TNP can think of the next book (of any kind! could even be blank paper or manuscript paper!) he or she is really looking forward to starting just for fun, or else not. Option open to TNP to name the book: not required. Ad libitum.
Yes, I hope to get to Rick Atkinson's The British Are Coming, a history of the early years of the American Revolution, soon.
TNP hasn't read any history in awhile.
Not exactly true, not exactly false. As you know, many things worth reading include detailed historical work. The only real book of history I've been peeping into recently is Stephen Budiansky's biography of Kurt Gödel, the great logician, Journey to the Edge of Reason.....very entertaining, but it is a biography and I've been familiar with many facts of Gödel's life, as well as his work for decades. However, numerous essays and books pertaining to the history of music (primarily music theory) keep appearing and becoming subsumed into my brain, almost daily.
TNP has a flashlight (of some sort) for nearly every occasion imaginable in ordinary life, and relishes the Platonic or Rolling Stonesian act of "shining a light" onto seldom explored crevices of, say, one's domicile.
We have one under the sink in our kitchen, but I would probably be more likely to rely on my pretty good night vision or light a candle, if the power went out. "Relishing" would be overstating things.
TNP knew that Gödel briefly appears in the recent (and very good) historical drama Oppenheimer, taking a woodswalk with Einstein.
Yes, although I did not recognize until a few seconds afterwards. Agreed, a very good movie, and I especially like that you call it an "historical drama," rather than a simple "biopic," as *Variety* and so forth might have it. One wouldn't have thought Gödel and Einstein should have had much to talk about, but they both had, especially in their later lives, a rather serious interest in philosophical questions beyond their training.
Of course, Gödel was much less a musician than Einstein, but Einstein had much less exposure to the contemporary theories of the nature of numbers and relations. It was a simpler time!
TNP would be suspicious if one ceased to hear the scuttling claws of mice about one's abode....it couldn't be....! And would set up additional snap-traps to make double sure that their reign of terror had ceased.
No, fortunately, we have only rarely had mice in our house. We had a rat once in our bedroom, and that was kinda scary.
TNP noticed a minor historical error in the Los Alamos V-J Day celebration scene in Oppenheimer. Hint: it involved props.
No. Sorry or glad to say that escaped my notice.
TNP would be equally parts ticked-off and relieved that a second-date prospect said she was involved with someone else. Particularly if it were someone one had already "friend-zoned" and was just trying to be friendly. As in, "c'mon, lady, I was throwin' you a bone there, and I'm glad you didn't take it, but that was a waste of energy!"
Yeah, sounds about right.
TNP watches a lot of documentary TV.
Not so much. I do play clips of Bill Hader's impersonation of *Dateline NBC*'s Keith Morrison pretty often and spread it around to various of my contacts online when appropriate, though. I suppose that counts: it is a fun impression!
TNP doesn't necessarily believe the school of thought that dictates that cats or kittens (the animals, not their human female analogs!) will readily chew through any and all electrical cables/instrument cords, etc.
Agreed. In my experience, very few do. Rabbits, however, are another matter, as my sister could tell you!
The Oppenheimer goof: https://people.com/eagle-eyed-histor...n-flag-7565185
TNP is reading a very good book these days.
Yeah, sort of. I'm liking Booth Tarkington's *The Magnificent Ambersons*, being a fan of the Orson Welles movie. There are other, weirder books about music theory and practice and such, but that's my fiction book at the moment, along with one of the sequels to Dumas's *Queen Margot* called *La dame de Monsereau,* which is just so-so.
[Ad *Oppenheimer*....somehow I don't feel so bad about not having counted the number of stars on a flag in the picture! But shame on the "script gal" or continuity person! Just horrid!]
TNP has ever had experience using rubber stamps and ink pads for stuff, and, if so, will explain how and why.
I did for awhile in the Nineties, getting several cool rubber stamps from a little business in Vermont, but haven't done any more of that since then.
TNP has been in Vermont in the past five years.
No, man, I never made it up there. Western Montana might be the most similar place in nomine spiritus hippi I've dwelled at, but never had the time or desire to head up to Vermont.
TNP has ever recently been overwhelmed by the sheer number of cardboard boxes and other devices of transport that must be disposed of or segregated at home, from online transactions.
Yes, they do pile up, don't they? Fortunately we have good cardboard recycling options around here.
TNP is pretty committed to recycling, whenever possible.
Well...a lot of it's a waste of time and effort, and the City of Toronto employees are jerks if you don't follow the "rules" they pull out of their butts and that don't correspond to the City's written directions. I do what I can, but don't sweat it much anymore.
Belatedly edited to add: TNP could eat a burrito right now.
I could eat about ten tacos and probably a few burritos. Spent all morning talking with my lawyer, her trial assistant, and my clinician. All good news. I am officially, and have the document to prove it, rehabilitated from alcohol abuse disorder. So, I likely will not have to appear at a Show cause hearing (because the county had not received proof of completion of treatment...but they will have...Columbus Day or something). So, my attorney will file a motion to dismiss per agreement with the state.
But I had these fancy dark charcoal flannel trousers made to measure and everything! Will they not see my day in court? Probably, but only to have charges dismissed after faithful completion of a year-long pre-trial diversion for a crime. Which pre-trial diversion I was fortunate enough to be eligible for and faithfully completed according to the standards required by the court.
Yes, indeed, I intend to appear in court for the motion to dismiss filed by my public defender, who is delightful, but as part of a purely pro forma appearance. The only question is: red tie or blue tie? I have both! No, I won't be wearing a skinny black necktie, black coat and trousers....it seems to me unwise. Navy blazer, probably red necktie, charcoal trousers, black Chelsea boots, and I shall not carry my Kershaw pocket knife nor wear my Mary medallion, my Ignatius medallion, nor my crucifix about my neck...
I'm still going to wear my Citizen Skyhawk, though! Yes, I'll take it off before the metal detector, but I can't not know what time it is!
TNP cannot really wear truly fancy pants (for me, *very* nice flannel trousers in charcoal, various other woolen trousers, and a Duluth Trading pair of khakis that I'm really fond of), because of eating in the car and various drips and spills.
I'm pretty good about not spilling food and drink on nice clothes, but it's always a risk, that's for sure.
TNP wears a ratty old shirt when frying bacon because of the splatter risk.
Nah. I fry bacon fully nude, because I like to live on the edge.
TNP is very happy with a 16 oz. claw ("rip") hammer made with a hickory handle, and does not feel the need for one with greater weight at the moment.
Yeah, that sounds about right. A hammer with the right heft in your hand is a beautiful thing.
TNP owns at least five different screwdrivers.
Heh. Afraid so. Screwdrivers, nut drivers, bits, drivers, ratcheting handles....the only thing those little hex drivers without handles included in every bit of furniture/&c. have ever been handy for me has to adjust the truss rod on a guitar, for some added extension to get to it. Nice comfy handle and the right size hex bit...that's a winner, for me, when assembling something.
I'm fond of the Klein Tools ratcheting screwdriver with a number of bits...one of my latest acquisitions....but I still have fixed-handle drivers which do not have removable/interchangeable bits that I am very fond of. Two nut drivers will do *everything* on both vintage Rhodes and Wurlitzer electric pianos, for example.
TNP has this unfortunate condition that urges he or she to accumulate tools disproportionate to the effort or time he or she expends actually using them. Exhibit A, The Heat Gun.
No, I've always been able to resist that impulse.
TNP will be going to an art show this weekend.
No. Truth be, I'm often displeased by art I see. At least the kind that is purposely made. But I hope it was good.
Spoiler (mouseover to read):
[strikethrough]TNP has met a new coworker recently whom one thinks is OK! (In my case, I trained him for his first two days....bunch of boring videos and training modules....but turns out he's a Filipino, and his name is Vince, and he plays pool at a high level.....so damn him, I can't wear my replica "VINCE" T-shirt from The Color of Money....he'd think it was funny, but it would be weird on a number of levels....maybe on Halloween!)[/strikethrough]
That was too complicated.
TNP has in recent memory made a racially-based joke to a person's face and it wasn't a problem. For example: "Yeah, sure, I'm going to play pool with a Filipino as soon as I start a drinking contest with an Irishman!"
(Note for the reader: both ethnicities are "renowned" for excellence in the described tasks, whether true or not)
I had no idea that Filipinos were well-regarded for their pool playing, so thanks for that. But no, I haven't made such a joke in recent memory.
TNP digs this Bach piece:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QzOYMTT_xx8
Well, yeah! Love it, know it, try to play it! Rinse and repeat! Great piece of music.
[Ad Filipinos and pool playing....oh yes. I've heard many theories why that is...strong gambling culture, beginning at young ages at the table with cobbled-together equipment, and perhaps early exposure to the table as a result of US military posts therearound. I think even most casual observers who are concerned with epic tournaments are hip to Reyes, Bustamente, but Filipinos tend to be highly competitive at international pool tournaments, in multiple games (8, 9, 10, one-pocket, straight). No, they're not the only national group or ethnicity out there, but it's kind of a legend, like saying "Oh, that is Frenchman, so he know how drink wine and make the woman love!"
Anyway, it is stereotype, but it's not one, IMHO, as patronizing as others like "Well, spin me a basketball," and so forth.
At least for those who have held their own against local/regional league champions, in several instances, among people of varying ethnicities, including my guy Vince at work, they've always been self-deprecating or humble to the utmost....but who knows. I know Vince has taken lessons, so, he's not to be taken as a "natural." At least that's his story he told me. He's almost certainly better than me, at all the standard games, but he's also like me in that he views pool as fun. He doesn't seem insulted now that I let his "secret" out that he's a Filipino who has played and acquitted himself very well against regional league champs...he might be annoyed with me, though, as this apparently the only thing guys and gals on my team want to talk to him about!]
TNP has any strong or mild opinions on what age a man should stop wearing certain types of casual clothing, and will expand if possible.
No man should wear tight swim trunks (a) after age 20 or (b) unless he's in very good shape, at any age.
TNP has a loved one leaving town soon.
Nah, don't think so, although you can never quite tell what my kid's going to do.
TNP hates getting medical lab tests done.
Yeah, not crazy about 'em, but ya gotta do what ya gotta do to stay healthy.
TNP hates dental exams/teeth cleanings even worse.
Nah, I feel way more chill about those.
TNP has carved a jack o'lantern this week.
No. Why? Because my dental hygienist (well, the office really) pissed me off by not giving me a courtesy reminder text/call for my third cleaning this year, and they charged me fifty bucks for no-show.
So I'm making my own Jack O'Lantern out of my own teeth! I'll show them! Good luck scraping that tartar off, suckers!
TNP has in recent memory sent off an extremely rude, but nominally polite (or....non-actionable), e-mail or equivalent missive to somebody who failed oneself. Such as HR , or whatever.
Nah. You should know by now that I'm just not that kinda guy.
My middle son carved a very nice jack-o-lantern just this evening, as it happens, showing Kiki and her cat on her witch's broom from the Japanimation kids' film Kiki's Delivery Service. Quite impressive!
TNP has bought enough candy, probably, for trick-or-treaters this year.
Probably. I've been having trouble reading the neighborhood, especially since the Pandemic.
TNP likes to give full sized candy bars at Halloween.
Yes! "Fun size" isn't - it's just small.
TNP will be wearing a costume tomorrow.
Nope, not yesterday, not today. Well, I suppose, I had a court appearance today. "Costume" == dark charcoal made-to-measure flannel trousers (no belt....because of stupid metal detector!), blue woolen blazer, black Chelsea boots (with Spenco "green" insoles), blue necktie, white shirt. (Toot my own horn: charges of misdemeanor DUII dismissed...with some patronizing platitudes from the judge like "Good for you for following through on that." —"Of course, your honor: that was my pleasure and duty.") And yesterday, I went to work as an extremely sleep-deprived, stressed-out dude who looked a bit worse for wear.
TNP did anything special for All Saints' Day today.
No, not on that day, but we had a special service today at my Episcopal church.
TNP will be going to an art gallery soon.
Probably not, don't tend to go these days unless there's any especially interesting exhibit going on.
TNP doesn't understand why Daylight Savings time continues when nobody actually likes it.
Well, lots of people seem to complain about it, but then I hear people happy to be waking up when there's a bit of light in the sky. And inertia is a powerful force.
TNP has had a drink of ice water today.
Negative, Colonel. Plenty of cold-ish water with some delicious electroylyte powder, and now some red wine. No ice. Can't use it.
TNP is not yet tired of the shortening days of small shadows...but probably will be in about six weeks or so.
Nah, I'm good. Doesn't take me long to adjust to Daylight Savings.
TNP hates almonds.
WHAT?????? I want to hear from what sumbitch hates almonds!
TNP demands to know who hates almonds! (Well, granted, there are some environmentally sound reasons to take issue with the amount of water required and so forth....)
Oh, I love 'em! But I just thought I'd ask if someone here didn't.
TNP particularly likes Blue Diamond Smokehouse Almonds.
Every day of the week and twice on Sunday, Cap'n!
TNP has been eating quite a bit of fast food (McDonald's, Wendy's, Jack in the Box, Taco Bell, whatever) recently for reasons.
No, I haven't, actually. I like McDonald's, Wendy's and Taco Bell, but have never had Jack in the Box. My go-to guilty pleasure for fast food is actually Arby's. Eating there was a rare treat when I was a kid, and I still like it.
TNP could go for an Arby's Beef and Cheddar, curly fries and jamocha shake right about now.
Well, I just ate some microwave popcorn and am swilling done some (swill but acceptable) beer, so I'd pass on that right now. But, in principle, yeah!
An Arby's isn't on my regular route to and from work (well, I know there is one just a quick zag from my usual route, but I can't be bothered), but the last time I went into one, a few weeks ago, this jaw-droppingly beautiful young woman was at the window who had the most genuinely friendly smile and attitude I think I've ever seen. Wow. Cue Steely Dan's "Hey Nineteen" indeed! ;) At least I was discreetly seated in the car! :D
TNP should get off his or duff soon and put up some small bookshelves, with the aid of a good stud finder, a drill for pilot holes, and a screwdriver of some sort. Or something similar to that kind of useful tomfoolery.
Yes, if we had any wall space, we could definitely do with more bookshelves around here. But I have no skills at household tomfoolery more complicated than changing a lightbulb.
TNP has at least three stacks of books in the room with him or her right now.
That's hilarious! Ha ha. So many stacks of books....ran out of bookshelf space years ago. And, no, I don't particularly like the sight of books...just what happens.
TNP would go so far as to say he or she actively dislikes looking at stacks of books, or their spines, or whatever. However, values having information at glance or an arm-reach away, which in his or her opinion is not possible with other digital alternatives.
If I could have them all neatly arranged on shelves, that would be better, yes. But I wouldn't say I actively dislike the sight.
TNP is concerned about the implications of AI for humanity's future.
Well. Not really. Recent experiments have been a complete disaster, and even the happy little LLM-based toys are not all that impressive.
(I've not heard one respectable researcher say otherwise, nor anyone else in a paper in a professional, peer-reviewed journal).
TNP has pretty loose criteria for general AI, and even then finds it hilarious to look at the current face of A"I" without bursting into laughter.
No, and although I'm not an alarmist, I am a bit worried. Computing power has been growing exponentially in recent years, and in a decade or two I wonder if humanity will be at risk from its own cybernetic creations.
TNP will be going to church today.
No, not today. I figure the cross, the St. Mary and St. Ignatius medallions (which I am not wearing....have the day off for a change), and the rosary hanging off the rear view mirror (on the car I'm not driving today) is fine. I have plenty to confess for, anyway, so failure to observe mass on days of obligation is just a minor grave sin to add to the pile.
TNP would not be worried about being interpolated while on the roads for having the rosary device hanging about the rearview mirror, since all police in the US are ethnic devout Catholics. The movies say.
Well, sure - when has Hollywood ever lied to us, after all?!?
TNP has ended a sentence with three punctuation marks in the past week.
In writing???? Like, how many times, I say you? More than three is excessive, perhaps. but I could see annotating a very surprising move in, say, chess, in three. An extra exclamation point perhaps between brackets within parens.
The answer is probably 'yes," BTW. Probably.
TNP has met (or encountered) a judge in the past week who was extremely funny. And will explain "funny, how?" In his or her professional capacity, as in presiding over his or her court. Not just funny like a clown, or a Patch Adams: adept at his or her craft, but amusing within some professional limits.
Well, I heard a judge not too long ago, when someone offhandedly said "That's cool," respond, "Justice and coolness, those are always my goals." I thought that was kind of funny.
TNP is listening to Christmas music this weekend.
What?
Lalala. I didn't hear that!
TNP is relatively unhappy when certain people aren't at work on any given day, because those people (he or she) give an extra bit of camaraderie.
Yes, there are certainly people I prefer to avoid at work if I can. Not as many these days, fortunately.
TNP has recently been seated next to a boring person at a meal.
No. I eat alone in silence, like a desert hyena devouring my prey.
TNP has, however, been very recently stuck behind someone in line at a convenience store who insisted on haggling over the price of some....I think it was vaping products or something....and was most displeased.
Not quite, although not long ago I was stuck in a pharmacy line behind an older person who took forever to buy just a few items.
TNP still has some non-food holiday shopping to do.
Sure. Depends how one understands "holiday" shopping, but I need some plywood cut at Home Depot, and some toilet paper, as well as fill a prescription for Chantax (smoking-cessation drug that is supposed to antagonize nicotinide recepters).
TNP is absolutely not on board with Xmas decorating, despite being a practicing Xian.
Oh, I am totally on board, even though my wife enjoys decking the halls more than I do, and does a lot more of it than I really think is necessary.
TNP will be going to church tomorrow night.
Christmas Eve? Negative. I will attend mass on Christmas Day, though.
TNP would rather go sit in a bar drinking after mass on Xmas Day in a Santa Claus costume, or a regular coat and tie.
Santa, for sure, if I owned such a costume. But IRL, I'm more likely to be in a regular coat and tie.
TNP got a new tie over the holidays.
No. I was not so fortunate.
TNP is happy that either or all the Ravens, the Bills (arguably...but they found their groove), the Browns, and the Lions are kicking so much ass this season.
The Browns especially, yeah, baby!
TNP has big plans for New Year's Eve.
Well, already came and went here.
I did like three or four loads of laundry, and washed a bunch of dishes.
Then at about 2200 or so I started drinking my usual Steel Reserve 211 High Gravity Lager. Played some piano....a really long Bach fugue, and did kind of a fonkified version of "Auld Lang Syne" with some nice gospel-style chords using secondary dominant leading to the submediant with the fifth on the bass and added some diminished seventh chords to add flavor.
So, actually a pretty mellow night. Haven't touched the keyboard in months, so that was fun.
TNP's NY Resolutions are on the order of: "Probably get a haircut this year, and likely read a book or something."
Yeah, I'm not a resolution guy. I try not to commit to stuff that may just be unattainable. But I did get a haircut this afternoon, and have several books going.
TNP is reading a particularly good novel at the moment, and will share the author and title.
Sure. Still on Tarkington's *The Magnificent Ambersons*, which is a delight (believe it or not, BoothTark was once one of the most celebrated, popular authors in the US), as well as still very slowly *The Queen's Gambit*. I started up Stendhal's *The Charterhouse of Parma* (an old "pocket paperback" in French with a lot of undergrad scribbles in it and some amusing notices of who owned the book, and who loves whom, and so forth, in the flyleaf.
Fortunately, the underlining and scribbles only last up until page 63, so I can tough it out! I'm a Stendhal fan, but I haven't read this very famous one, although apparently I had acquired a copy a long time ago. Spoiler alert: it sort of involves Napoleon who did some stuff in Italy a while ago. At least that's my guess. And I think Parma is involved, but probably not much about food (although "Stendhal" [pen name] himself was a known connoisseur of many sensual habits).
TNP has a favorite Rolling Stones original tune, and will both name it and explain why it is tops. Or, you know, top three or so.
Oh, definitely. "Gimme Shelter" is far and away my favorite Stones song. Sheer musical awesomeness:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RbmS3tQJ7Os
I like "Street Fighting Man," "Undercover of the Night" and "Ruby Tuesday," too, but they're not nearly in the same league for me. The rest of the Stones' songs I could pretty much take or leave ("Satisfaction" is a great song but i've heard it a gazillion times and never need to hear it again).
TNP loves "Gimme Shelter," too.
Yep. That is one of the great epics of rock and roll, to me. Everything went right there, from soup to nuts, however it happened: an elevation of the form. I don't listen to it all the time, because, you know, heard it a million times, and it is intense. Recently was enthralled by the guitar parts to "Tumbling Dice," which I never had much zest for. But some nice clean motion in the guitars I didn't get the first hundred or so times heard it.
TNP, in his or her experience, has a tremendous zeal for seeing operations conducted correctly and efficiently, and even finds satisfaction, in terms of progress made, in the disciplining of those who violate standards for safety and efficiency.
(Probably a shorter way to say that: let's say TNP doesn't mind a bit opening up a can of whup-ass on people who are obstacles). Whichever.
Yes, I do like "seeing operations conducted correctly and efficiently," but have never gotten any satisfaction from disciplining anyone. I'm more likely to quietly take someone aside if they botch something and speak with them privately, or simply forgive and forget.
TNP is already looking forward to the weekend.
Hmmm....yeah, probably. I'm retiring in a few weeks, so weekends are taking on a different flavour.
TNP is looking forward to retirement.
Not particularly. I like being engaged and getting stuff done - not sure I'll ever fully retire (but I hope you enjoy yourself, RET!)
TNP has cold feet right at the moment.
Not any more. I think there is some slight tissue damage from a somewhat lengthy power outage at my place recently about the toes. Despite the use of socks, and strong tactical deployment of various warming techniques in the battle against cold feet.
TNP strongly prefers punching rather than kicking. You know, things and stuff, if it came down to it.
I do so little of either, but sure, I guess punching is maybe the better option.
TNP has listened to some Vivaldi today.
No, not on "that" today nor in the interim. Just didn't occur to me.
TNP last week had a number of weather-related issues which made for "interesting" (read: .... well, dealer's choice) times.
Yes, we went from 12" of snow, to rain, to a warming trend, to heavy fog yesterday and today, and then a light drizzle tonight.
TNP drank a beer tonight.
Had 3.6 this morning....and 5.2 "hard" seltzers at lunch at work (sort of like beer, except without much merit....but doesn't leave a scent on one's breath!) None since.
TNP should probably wear a Devo "energy dome" hat sometime soon. Yes, in public.
Heh. I think my sister had one of those, back in the day, but I never wore it, and I haven't seen one in many a year. Holy shit, there's a Wiki article about 'em!: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Energy_dome
TNP has at least three silly hats in the closet, ready for the right (or wrong) occasion.
No, not really. The "energy dome" was to have been my one indulgence since childhood years. I liked the fancy hats back in the younger days, but last really nice fancy hat I had was a Hoquy brand beret, since lost or stolen, which I would not have the moxy to wear today.....and a nice French-style "casquette" (kind of like a driving cap....a cheap one, but still made of wool and with a stout small visor and so forth...) that was stolen when in a Parisian bar (some of the locals started a game of "keep away" from me, tossing it back and forth...I knew these people as a regular of this place....sort of having fun, but also with a bit of "stump the chump" added in since I was pretty intoxicated at the time). Either way, 100% my fault.
Have a large sunhat and a few plain ballcaps (latter difficult to get in 7 ¾" size, but is possible, if one finds a good seller who doesn't gouge one for shipping) that I never wear, because they just don't give enough shade to the face. One needs full coverage, I find, to avoid the Big Casino....he says as he continues to smoke cigarettes while into his second month of Chantix (Verenicline).
TNP can think of no finer way to cut a large pack of bacon one tossed without much forethought into the freezer into, say, thirds than to use a circular disc "cut-through" (a small circular sawblade, really, either with jagged edges or coated in diamond powder, etc.....it's complicated!) attachment attached to a high-speed hand held power tool, such as a Dremel-style rotary tool.
If TNP can, then TNP should name it, by all means! And none of that defrosting crap, neither, unless it involves a heat gun or a blowtorch.
Hmm, no, never heard of that, or done it. The only funny bacon trick I know is the author Robert B. Parker's suggestion to cook bacon in the nude, so that you never overcook it because you don't want to get burned by hot grease splatters. (I've never done that either, I confess).
TNP has cooked bacon in the nude.
Actually, yeah....most likely multiple times. I don't remember why, except I was in a state of mind that was confident in my abilities to avoid injury, which I did. (True fact: it does not require much effort to avoid pain and injury performing such an act!) Despite statistics showing an alarming number of deaths caused by frying bacon in the UK.
TNP is unwilling to make things easier for people who make foolish, lazy, inept decisions at the workplace, and in practice actively triages those who behave correctly and with sense in accordance with their level of compliance and orderliness.
Definitely. I'm a patient man but I won't go out of my way to reward or cover for those who make "foolish, lazy, inept decisions" at work.
TNP can define the slang term "chooch" (as in, "Don't be a chooch").
Yeah. It means a fool. As in "I don't be flying in no airplane, and I ain't drinking none of that crazy chooch Murdock's milk, neither, sucka!"
TNP would not drive two minutes out of his or her way to see Amelia Whatserface's final resting place, were it discovered and her remains were interred, even if symbolically.
Earhart? Sure, I would. I remember reading about her mysterious disappearance when I was in my teens, and have tried to learn more about her since.
TNP would like to fly around the world someday.
Sure. Maybe like on a giant bird or something. That would be pretty cool.
One question for TNP, and he or she *must* answer truthfully: llama or alpaca! Final answer only! And give reasons. Name names.
I like 'em both. If I must pick one, I'll go for Llarry the Llama over Alphonse the Alpaca.
TNP actually knows a person (if not an alpaca) named Alphonse.
Not spelled that way exactly, but yes. Several regular drivers for my company have at least one of their names as a variant, but always spelled with an "f" instead of the "ph." And the terminal vowel varies. So, I guess not really, but sort of. Seems to be an extremely popular name, though, probably among people under, say, thirty or so.
(Actually, the correct answer to the age old question about llamas and alpacas is, "it could be the llama, because it is stronger, but in fact it is the guanaco that is really liked!" According to a Peruvian woman I work with, anyway. Sort of a "cite" for that very important question, I suppose! Actually, she preceded her response by telling me that in her accent, "llama" is pronounced like "jahma," not "yama," and replied in Spanish, but pretty sure that's what she said.
So, yes, your answer is acceptable by at least one Peruvian.)
TNP has recently been (privately) shocked and offended when a chum's dog barked at him or her, despite TNP's innate ability to dog-whisper.
It hasn't happened to me, but our dog Dewey sometimes barks at people he already knows, and in a not-very-friendly manner. He's never bitten anyone, but it's kind of embarrassing.
TNP has kissed a dog in the past month.
Well, that's kind of a personal question!
No, absolutely not. No "dog" of any sort.
TNP thinks a perfectly adequate way to address derelict behavior among one's managers at work is to keep filing detailed, accurate, insult-free reports with the company's "ethics hotline" (or whatever the equivalent might be....in my case...not HR....because IMHO they are weenies).
By all means, if you think it's necessary.
TNP had Japanese food this week.
Nope. The opposite. Pretty much exclusively fast food from drive-thru windows. (But no alcohol, so....meh...it kind of evens out in the wash!)
TNP has a favorite national/widespread chain fast food restaurant, and, if so, will name it. If not, explain why. In 300 words or less. Or more.
Yes, my secret fast-food passion is Arby's. (Don't you judge me!). Back when I was a kid there was an Arby's in the nearest big city to which my sisters and I would very occasionally be taken by my parents, and eating there was a special treat. I still like it.
TNP has read a Western in the past two months.
Ummmmm....I'm going to say "No." Not actually sure I've ever read a Western....though one of my favorite genres in moving pictures for sure. Unless you want to count something like On the Road or Chateaubriand's Mémoires d'Outre-Tombe (which is, actually, kind of a proto-Western...in a way...it's got rattlesnakes biting horses and Iroquois and all that!).
No, I revise that to a hard no, not ever. Unless one gets into Fenimore Cooper....I think I was supposed to read one of his in a grad seminar, but I was busy, you know, doing stuff like research and writing...or, you know, like Kafka, "Wunsch, Indianer zu werden."
But my memory is not the best. Good enough for two months, though. Mostly. Definitely not in last two months. Definitely not....pretty sure.
TNP wishes very much that some people at, say, work, could just can the balloon juice about 95% of the time. IOW, TNP can be pretty irritated by people who have some kind of compulsion to fill up every silence with chatter, especially as it concerns their own lives, about which one is not at all interested. For example.
Yes, now and then. Fortunately, none of the people I regularly work with are chatterboxes.
Some great Westerns to consider: True Grit by Charles Portis (a callow but determined young woman tries to find the man who killed her father), Appaloosa by Robert B. Parker (two gunmen are hired to pacify a wild town) and Inland by Tea Obreht (a wrangler for the U.S. Camel Corps and a tough-as-nails frontier mom are brought together by circumstances beyond their control).
TNP will poke around on Amazon a little to learn more about at least one of those books.
I might. I know about *True Grit*....it has its followers....but somehow I imagine most of them read in my inner ear to take their teeth out in order to do a reading for Mr. Ford, as in a Walter Brennan kind of thing. Meh, I should probably read some Louis L'Amour, or *Lonesome Dove*, you know, one of those. *Appaloosa* made a fine movie, which I believe I first heard about here. *Inland* sound intriguing.
I must say, though, I'm getting back to roots and reinvestigating some (post)-modernist (no later than, say, then 1970s), modernist, and symbolist or even romantic novels. As well as memorizing random bits in foreign tongues I'd forgot, like the Symbolum Apostolorum [the shorter creed, licit for use during Lent and Easter, as well as when praying the rosary] and the Mallarmé *Plusieurs sonnets*.
TNP keeps track of which drugs one takes each day, how much, and at what time, in a notebook. Need not be heavy drugs....benadryl, ibuprofen, Chantix, alcohol, &c.
No, I don't. I rarely take any drugs at all, and when I do by prescription, I just take them as directed, and don't really need to keep track.
I've now finished Inland and very strongly recommend it. Probably the best book I've read so far this year.
TNP would like to go to Arizona this spring.
No. Not unless they build a giant canopy over the entire state to block out the sunlight!
[tks for tip about *Inland*....that's a strong recommendation, so it will be amusing to check it out]
TNP can't really decide which pair of sunglasses (bonus points for prescription shades!) is his or her "Number One," taking after the convention some guitarists use when referring to their favored guitar.
I have two, I'd say: a rugged, matte-black pair of Ironman sunglasses for everyday use including driving, and a tortoise pair of Ray-Ban Wayfarers for fancier occasions. If I had to choose, I'd go with the Wayfarers.
When I was a lifeguard and boating instructor at Scout camp back in the early Eighties, I had a prescription pair of mirrored aviator sunglasses, but haven't since then.
TNP has seen snow outside in the past three days.
Yeah. There's still a bit of snow up around here, but over the past two days, day-and-a-half, I'd say, it's rapidly become a victim of the sunlight and warmer temperatures. Three days? Yeah, for sure, little bit here and there.
TNP thinks it will be completely futile to try to "chase" the upcoming total solar eclipse, for reasons of likely overcast weather, or not being near the arc of totality, or general whatever reasons. Maybe next time!
In many places, yes. Fortunately, I won't have to chase it, because we're right in the path of it. I'm just hoping for clear weather that day: https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/fu...24/where-when/
TNP already has effective and safe eye-protective glasses to watch the total solar eclipse on April 8.
You lucky son of a bitch! I hope you and yours have a great experience. (Oh, no, I don't have any welding glasses or such...not in the path, and it will be overcast anyway, per usual in the PNW).
TNP has had an enduring affection for artists, writers, musicians of the XVIth century for several decades...really, most his or her adult life. And never comes up empty when searching for inspiration in the past.
No, I'm more of a XVIIth and XVIIIth century kind of guy, especially for music (Bach, Handel, Vivaldi, Boyce, Telemann, etc.).
TNP got rained on today.
Nah, not really. Few sprinkles here and there, but my work day is just almost beginning.
TNP thinks an appropriate response if some coworkers start in with that "happy birthday" crap is: "Yep, sure is. Whoopty fucking shit! Thanks for reminding me! 39 years!" :) (No, it's not my birthday, and I am not 39, nor will ever be again!)
Nah, I never minded if people remembered my birthday, even if I didn’t advertise it.
TNP has discovered a movie recently they want to recommend.
Not a movie, but one of my sons and I have been watching the new Hulu series Shogun, based on the James Clavell novel, and it's pretty good. It's about an English sailor marooned in early 1600s Japan, trying to survive the political maneuvering and murderous feuds between various clans after the death of the Taiko (regent).
TNP is interested in Japanese history.
You know, I'd say true, because it is a colorful history.
A lot of ins and outs and what-have-yous. Mind you, I know next to nothing about, say, Japanese classical poetry compared to Chinese classical poetry (about which I know only somewhat more), but that's my final answer.
TNP does not have any patience for internet trollery, but knows exactly how to avoid it, in addition to the endless screeching it or those accused of such tends to invite. As a follow-up question, TNP has the least patience imaginable for politically disingenous and provocative speech, whether by a Youtuber or an elected member of congress.
Yes to both. I try to treat everybody with courtesy and respect, both online and IRL, and expect them to do the same. If they don't, then I typically will have nothing more to do with them unless absolutely necessary.
TNP observed the North American total solar eclipse yesterday.
Heard about it. Was not in the real path, though, and so I was either at work or sleeping. Or both.
TNP *did* find its way nearer to the path of totality.
No, but wife and kid did, and were impressed.
TNP is traveling soon.
Not too far, no.
We were able to see the total solar eclipse from our backyard; my niece and her husband drove up from Columbus, Ohio to see it with us. It was a warm spring day and the temperature dropped noticeably during totality. Our old dog didn't react at all, but our neighbor's dog barked nervously just before that. Absolutely stunning to see that dark disc with its eerie, fiery white rim, and a red prominence like a laser dot at about the 6:30 position; I now understand why people will travel great distances to see a TSE. Loved it!
TNP has at least three pairs of scissors in the house.
Goodness indeed. I'm very happy you witnessed the ancient battle between the moon and the sun. Truly. They come through here in the PNW once in a while, but it's always overcast anyway.Quote:
Originally posted by Elendil's Heir
Well, yeah. (TNP looks within a three-foot radius and finds at least three scissors. Sharp ones, too.)Quote:
Originally posted by Elendil's Heir
How the hell else is one supposed to stab one's pizza onto the plate?
TNP finds that people who throw around the term "troll" IRL or online indiscriminately should probably be disposed of. And one doesn't much care how.
For to accuse someone of being a troll is a pretty serious matter, and simpletons and retired technicians and the like cannot adjudge such an affair.
Yes, any insult should be levied with at least some degree of care, "troll" included.
TNP knew that ABBA gave permission only three times for one of its songs to be sampled, and that one of those times was for this 2005 Madonna hit:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EDwb...hannel=Madonna
(Sigh)....No! I actually have very few ideas about anything to do with ABBA, nor Madonna, for that matter. It's well beyond my realm. No, TNP had absolutely no idea.
TNP would be, or has been, driven to a near-frenzy by someone...a coworker, or whatever....who insisted on listening to recorded music on a personal device, such that one could hear it while doing other things.
TNP would even go so far as to say he or she *despises* listening to music he or she does not desire to at any given moment.
Yes, it can be very annoying, especially when it's from someone driving by in a car with the windows rolled down and their music blasting.
TNP has seen a movie with the score performed live by an orchestra, and will tell us which film(s).
Certainly at least once, but I cannot tell anyone the name of the film. It was a revival theater in "historic" Oregon City or Hillsboro, OR, and although a younger pre-teen at the time, there was much whooping and hollering IIRC.
Memory has escaped me, which I consider forgivable given the uncouth surroundings at the time.
TNP has recently "invested" some in acquiring a good several handfuls of "classic" (by which I mean, maybe, prior to the XXe century) books of novels and poetry in decent editions, or has been entertained by such adventures in consumerism in the past. (Inclusive "or").
Not recently, am kind of meaning to read a few dozen of the books I already have before getting many more. Three months into retirement,nand still haven’t gotten very far into my reading.
TNP seldom gets bored, because there’s just about always something entertaining to do or think about.
Definitely. I will almost always have a book or magazine close at hand, or will noodle around on the Internet.
There's a movie TNP really wants to see on the big screen over the summer.
There is, starting July 11th, but discretion does not allow me the tempting mentioning the title of this magnificent blockbuster.
I don't talk politics at work and I will not here....but....but....opening date of a really hilarious movie! Shazam!
TNP is on a diet, of sorts, in a desperate attempt to lower his or her blood pressure before a visit with his or her GP. Or not. A diet, anyway. Alternate TNP: TNP finds that not drinking and smoking is actually pretty good! It greatly simplifies day-to-day life. And therefore TNP advises this diet to others, as this poster does.
Not really, although I am trying to eat less. Also, I fast now and then, often having just a small glass of OJ for breakfast and then sometimes skipping lunch. Sometimes I also cut out sweets.
TNP could go for a big slice of apple pie right now.
Yeah, even though it’s only 9:00 a.m. Pie makes a fine breakfast.
TNP prefers their apple pie not to have cinnamon.
My Platonic ideal of apple pie actually includes vanilla ice cream with a slight sprinkling of cinnamon!
TNP will be on a beach somewhere this week.
More or less — in a cottage on a lake with some of my wife’s friends, but the beach is a steep walk downhill.
TNP sometimes finds “fun” activities more tiring than fun.
Yep. "Fun" as an idea just evokes a lot of extra unnecessary effort to me. Confetti and balloons and nonsense. Humbug.
TNP occasionally gets pretty lost, even if on purpose, while driving around on country roads near where one lives or works and such. Or, you know, technically "lost" but not exactly....one may have a good idea where one is, but not exactly where a certain road ends up.
A lot of twists and turns and what have you.
Yeah, I do like to do that now and then, or to take a route home I've never taken before, just to see what other parts of the city look like.
TNP is ready for bed.
Technically, yes. I start my day job job at around 1600 five days a week, but woke up at 0700 today to get ready for an appt with my doctor for a blood pressure check-up, and do some chores. Meh, I'd just as soon drink some beer and maybe putter around my place for a while, organizing some audio cables or putting back in order the hundreds of loose pages of music staff paper lying around.
TNP is absolutely convinced that carrying excess water weight is mostly the fault of diet (alcohol even in modest amounts, and perhaps salt in foods or electrolyte replacement powders).
And that it must be fought diligently....especially when "weighing in" on an accurate balance! A properly hydrated body should not be bloated with excess water! Combat this evil with heavy weights compressing one's torso for up to eighteen hours a day, diuretics such as "water pills"....by any means necessary!
Whatever works for you, bruh.
TNP has a loved one out of town right now.
Sure. My mother, who is undergoing non-curative chemotherapy for a partially surgically removed brain tumor, is doing that whole "Fourth of July" thing at the coast. It's usually a very unpleasant gathering full of in-laws and unnecessary strife.
TNP has always kind of hated the "Fourth of July" (yes, Canucks can be included as TNP! pretty sure TO probably gets a fair bit of pollution spilling over from bflo and niagara falls, NY)....and thinks "they" should just turn it into a Purge Day, for all the "fun" to be had by a bunch of a-holes "doing fireworks." It's a good chance to dip back into *The Federalist Papers*, though, I suppose, or other bits of North American history.
TNP also thinks it would be more American and probably safer to just fire guns into the air (using lead-free ammunition, of course). It's not *that* dangerous, and probably wouldn't cause as many fires, if any.
Canada: a luxury apartment over a meth lab.
No, I've always enjoyed Independence Day - the flags, fireworks, cookouts, concerts, parades, ice cream, etc. I'm listening to Sousa marches even now!:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90wP...l=jhunexzul007
TNP has heard a Sousa march in the past month.
Probably not, although I might have tuned one out when the Americans were doing July 4th stuff.
TNP is always mildly astonished by how many jobs can be fit into the military, such as full time musician.
Yes, although in the U.S. military in the past twenty-some years, the trend has been towards using civilian contractors, especially for support functions.
U.S. Marine Band musicians are, IIRC, the only Marines who don't have to go through boot camp. They are already established, talented musicians when they enlist, and they start practicing and performing as Marines at once.
TNP knows a U.S. Marine or former (never "ex-") Marine.
Sure. I used to hang out pretty regularly with a neighbor who was a Marine over a period of a few years...he kind of went the Drew Carey route in terms of physique after he pulled his six years (he did ROTC or one of those as an undergrad), but still walked a brisk fifteen minute mile despite his weight....probably would not advise getting in a fist fight with him. A bartender I knew pretty well went to the USN Academy at Annapolis and did his six as a Marine. Among people I'd stop and chat with for a good while those come to mind....I'm sure there are others I'm not thinking of....extended family maybe? I dunno. But, yeah.
If TNP were going to several funerals in the next few years....you know, time flies and all that...TNP would go ahead and order a made-to-measure black suit....but to ensure versatility such that it could be worn with some flair at other events, would go ahead and have the company add things like a ticket pocket, select unconstructed shoulders ("spalla camicia," or shirt-like collars where the only real structure comes from the horsehair canvas to which the suit is sewn), or perhaps other style additions according to one's taste (color of the lining...and how much of the jacket is lined, how many shirtsleeve buttons, and are they functional or not....etc.)
IOW small details that one wouldn't necessarily add to a workplace suit (not to mention that one probably wouldn't wear a black suit during daylight hours except for certain occasions....one could....but....probably one wouldn't very often....no matter how cool Marcello Mastroianni made his unstructured black suit look in La Notte and elsewhere).
Yeah, that makes sense to me. However, I don't really go to enough funerals to make it worthwhile to have a suit just for that; in any event, I have a dark grey suit which I've found works well for such occasions.
TNP is following American politics pretty closely these days.
Sure. One can never get enough of whatever Kardashian Hilton Jersey Queens reality TV.
It's great. Trust me.
TNP would go for single or double vented suit jacket if one had a permit to carry a concealed weapon, and chose to carry with an outside-the-waistband holster (OWB) a double-stack full size pistol (say five inch barrel) with an exposed hammer chambered in 9mm.
ETA TNP is pretty confident that double vents wouldn't print with that setup.
Can’t say I have given it much thought, but yeah, that would probably work.
TNP regularly uses food delivery apps.
No. I went through a "phase" of using fast food apps (Burger King, Jack in the Box) to pre-order drive-thru stuff, but I can't really feature paying the premium for whatever dude or gal to go run errands for me. If I'm at home, I'd just "cook" something easy and fast, anyway. Maybe if I was at the "office" for a long day, I'd go in on a group order, but, no.
TNP's experience with Uber/Lyft amateur drivers has been that they are mostly idiots who don't know the roads and have their face buried in their phone, figuratively, to figure out where the hell they're going. Because they don't know, unlike cab drivers who generally know their heads from their asses (usually, but not always!)
I've had very limited experiences with Uber/Lyft drivers, but the few trips I took went OK.
TNP wants to go to Alaska.
Well, I’ve been there and it was fine, but there are lots of other places I would like to go in the time I have.
TNP has been to Pompeii.
Negatory. I read in this article by this guy, Pliny something or other, that there's some good stuff there, but they had some trouble with some kind of lava, like soap or something.
TNP owns a suit (or even just a coat/blazer) with unconstructed shoulders (spalla camicia), after an Italian style supposedly originating in or about Naples. Or would like to have one made for him or her (or it/they).
I don't think so, no. I have some neckties from Italy, though.
TNP is just a bit chilly right now.