You might be wondering, “So what in tarnation is this Monday Poll thing anyway!?”
Well, it isn’t exactly a poll. It’s more of a constantly evolving (devolving?), somewhat random list of questions I’ve been putting out to readers every Monday morning for the past NINE (!) years. (It’s like a kickstart for your brain.) I’ve always enjoyed reading your answers in the comments, and I hope you enjoy reading mine. 🙂
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
My cousins Rhodora and Beverly in Union City. All I really remember is that both of them had bikes with banana seats, and I think it was Beverly who put me in the front of the banana seat, and she sat in the back, and said, “Don’t worry, I’ll have my feet down the entire time.”
I could hear her shoes scooting across the asphalt. Then at one point she lifted her feet up when I wasn’t aware, so I was doing it on my own.
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
Girl…I wish I could say that “This was my great-great-great-grandmother’s recipe for pancit,” or whatever, but everything I’ve learned to cook, I’ve muddled through on my own. My mom wasn’t really into cooking and didn’t know much about it, so maybe it’ll be something I can pass onto Connor. How ’bout that? Maybe someday she’ll be able to say, “I’m cooking my mom’s lasagne.” I’d love that.
3. Diamonds or pearls?
What is this, a Prince song?
I don’t really wear a lot of fancy jewelry because I tend to lose it, but let’s go with pearls…because they’re classic, and they go with everything.
4. What are three things you really, really like?
- I love pants that I don’t have to hem. Off the rack for me are almost always way too long.
- Ooh! And I love Three Twins ice cream, which IMO is THE BEST ice cream around.
- And I love hanging out with my daughter.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
That I was obsessed with 1940s screen sirens when I was in high school.
I blame it on Casablanca, which I saw for the first time when I was 14. I love the elegance, the style, the makeup (of course) and how the ladies carried themselves.
I was super obsessed with Lauren Bacall, Bette Davis, Katharine Hepburn and Greta Garbo, but I liked them all.
Have a great week, my friend
I can’t believe I’m saying this because I love summer, but I can’t wait to dust off my boots today. They’ve been hidden away on a shelf in my closet for months, but I’m gonna put them out in the hallway where I keep my wearing shoes. YAY!
Wow, it’s October, which means that tomorrow is practically Thanksgiving, which means that the day after that is practically Christmas!
It’s kind of freaking me out a bit. I’m plotting to try and get everyone to come to my house this year. Ya know, once the kids are born, everyone comes to you? Well, that’s what I’m hoping this year…
You have a good one today, OK? Be kind to yourself. 🙂
Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,
Karen
P.S. Here are the questions to copy and paste…
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
3. Diamonds or pearls?
4. What are three things you really, really like?
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
Kiss & Make-up says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
My dad.
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through
generations?
Nope. But my husband swears by his grandmother’s waffle recipe.
3. Diamonds or pearls?
Diamondz. That’s right a Z!
4. What are three things you really, really like?
Skiing. Chocolate. Puppies.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
I’m really not as extroverted as a lot of people think.
Karen says
Happy Monday!
Erin says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
My parents tried but it was mostly my own willpower.
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
Yes, my grandmother actually made us handwritten cookbooks. I have recipes from my other grandmother who lived in Europe for years, once from my mom, and quite a few from good family friends from Armenia and Italy.
3. Diamonds or pearls?
Either, both, neither. I’m not a huge fan of either but I do like them. I prefer colored gems. Black pearls are pretty boss. The most flawless diamonds are too but I don’t have that kind of cash!
4. What are three things you really, really like?
Sleep, Cheese, Wine! Beauty wise right now, TF Vert D’Encens, MUFE Water Blend, and Fresh Black Tea Age Delay Infusion!
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
I’m not sure I can answer that because I’m an open book on most topics.
Karen says
Happy Monday, Erin!
Lupe says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
My dad. My parents later on sold my bike for $20 at a garage sale because I never used it. lol.
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
Not that I know of.
3. Diamonds or pearls?
Pearls! They look so elegant.
4. What are three things you really, really like?
Pizza, makeup, and 80’s movies.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
I eat pretty slow. It takes me 30-35 minutes to finish a meal.
Karen says
Hi Lupe,
I love ’80s movies too. What are you faves?
Shannon says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
My dad, I think. Pretty sure I had a banana seat bike back then, too! But I honestly don’t have very clear memories of the process. In my mind, I’ve just always been a bad-ass bicycler 😉
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
Hmm.. well, we have Easy Cobbler, which was from a neighbor in my mom’s neighbor, so it’s something my grandma, mother, and I have made. And I make my mom’s enchiladas. So, if those count, then yes!
3. Diamonds or pearls?
Depends on the outfit, hon! Or the application. In general, studs: diamonds. Necklace: pearls.
4. What are three things you really, really like?
1) the feeling of waking up on the first cold-weather-Saturday of the season, with brisk air around you while you’re cuddled under a down comforter.
2) watching a band on a tiny stage sing in three-part harmony really well, while hanging with your really good friends and drinking beer
3) kitties. (cuz duh, lol.)
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
I’m a mess after I get my flu shot. It takes a couple hours, but by the time I get home from work (I get my shot during the day while I’m at work, cuz I work at a hospital) I am emotionally exhausted, physically tired, and in quite a bit of pain. BY mid-evening I’m typically huddled in bed, crying silent tears pain, incapable of doing basically anything.
…I am reminded of this because I got my flu shot TODAY. Cross your fingers for me that I won’t hurt too badly, and that I’ll be able to make dinner for my husband like I promised I would, ha!
Karen says
Shannon! I hope you’re feeling OK! Sending you virtual brownies and kitty kisses from Tabs!
Chris25 says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?: I never learned. 🙁 Who here wants to teach me?
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?: Yes! Many, many Guyanese recipes.
3. Diamonds or pearls?: Pearls!
4. What are three things you really, really like?: Cats/dogs, jewelry, doing nice things for other people.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?: There are published poems out there that were written about me. 🙂
Karen says
It’s never too late to learn to ride! You can do it!
ericca says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike? my dad
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations? nope.
3. Diamonds or pearls? diamonds.i look dowdy in pearls
4. What are three things you really, really like?food ,handbags and mojitos.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you? I seem very extroverted but i like sitting quietly
Karen says
Hope you had a great Monday, Ericca!
Ericca says
Oh I am. My birthday is this week. I am only thinking positive
Karen says
Happy early birthday to you! How will you be celebrating? I hope some makeup is involved. 🙂
Ericca says
I did receive some gift cards but I waiting to see what my boyfriend has planned.
Leah G. says
I love October here in New England but I looked at the calendar and freaked out a little realizing that there’s only 3 months left of the year! I’m with you on thinking that the holidays are just around the corner. I’m pitching an idea with my inlaws to go away for a weekend instead of doing gifts with them (because they always buy us wayyy too much stuff.
——————————
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike? I think my Dad…I’m not sure! I used to have a yellow banana seater that was passed down from my cousin.
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations? My Mom’s chocolate cookie recipe and blueberry muffing recipe. My Mom made me a recipe book for my wedding shower gift.
3. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds but I do like black pearls.
4. What are three things you really, really like? Maine, the New England Woods, and the ocean.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you? I still get carded so people are always surprised to learn that I’m 39 (I turn 40 in January). Thank you good sunscreen and good genes.
Karen says
Girl, I hope your idea works! Where do you hope to be going over the holidays?
Anywho, I really want everyone at our house this year because I’m SO OVER traveling all over the place to make everyone happy. I’m going to shamelessly use the baby as an excuse to host at our house. Hopefully it’ll work. *crosses fingers*
Leah G. says
I hope that you get to host for the holidays!
For us we combined our holidays years ago (easy since my husband is an only child). We host Easter, my parents host Thanksgiving and my in-laws host Christmas).
I know–my idea is good. A cozy inn in New Hampshire…roaring fire…cross country skiing. Ahhh. Could be amazing!
Ruchita says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
My parents. I remember when I was in middle school I was so excited to get my pink and grey Huffy ten-speed bike!
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
Not really. My mom makes amazing Indian food, but I don’t think it’s a specific recipe she got from her mom. She’s always nice about making extra and giving me some, but I really should learn some of the recipes.
3. Diamonds or pearls?
Diamonds.
4. What are three things you really, really like?
– Going to sleep without having to set an alarm clock.
– Reading a good book. Preferably snuggled on the couch on a rainy day.
– Unexpected free time from canceled meetings at work.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
I “acted” in a couple of plays in high school. One of my star roles was a Munchkin in the Wizard of Oz! I’m usually pretty quiet in groups so I don’t think people would expect me to be on stage.
Happy Monday! I can’t believe it’s October. I’ve already started stocking up on Halloween candy at the store when I see it on sale. our neighborhood gets a crazy amount of kids!
Karen says
I remember you mentioning that you guys get lots of kids. What kind of candy did you buy? Please tell me Mini Snickers are up in the mix.
Ruchita says
Yep, Snickers, Kit Kat and Nestle Crunch! I’ve got the bags stashed in the basement so I don’t sneak any. 🙂
This will be Connor Claire’s first Halloween! Is she going to dress up?
Karen says
Good plan. Ya know what, though? I’d still end up in the basement eating candy, LOL!
Yes, Connor Claire is going to be a monkey this year. Will the kitties be dressing up?
Ruchita says
She is going to look so adorable! Can’t wait to see pics. I haven’t gotten the kitties any costumes yet. I need something kind of simple because they’re not into dressing up. 🙂
Chelsea says
Three Twins ice cream is so good!
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
I think my dad, but I don’t remember.
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
Um, I have a recipe for dill dip from my grandma (mom’s mom), and Christmas cookie recipe from my parents (who got it from their good friends), but that’s about it.
3. Diamonds or pearls?
I’m not super into jewelry, but I guess I wear diamond rings almost every day. (Wedding jewelry and a ring from my grandma)
4. What are three things you really, really like?
1. Rainbows
2. Bunnies
2. Nutella
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
Um. I didn’t learn to wear makeup until I was almost 18?
Karen says
Three twins is THE BEST. They have a shop in two towns down from me and they have flavors that they don’t always sell in the store. Last time I was there I tried coconut and nearly swooned. What’s your fave flavor?
Tatiana says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
My Dad. Still one of my fondest memories. My Dad had the patience of a saint when it came to me. He taught me a lot of things. How to ride a bike, how to draw, how to properly wash my car, how to change a tire and the oil in my car, how to paint my house… My best memories, just me and my Dad and learning stuff from him. (No idea where my brothers were when I was learning all this stuff from Dad.)
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
Yeah, and I keep meaning to type them up and make a recipe book of my Mom’s and Grandmother’s recipe to give to all the cousins. Not sure my daughter is interested in them though.
3. Diamonds or pearls?
Diamonds. Even though the only real one I own is in my ring.
4. What are three things you really, really like?
1) Spending time with all the usual suspects. Dear Husband, Dear Daughter, Dear Horse, Dear Cat.
2) Venco Katjesdrop, salted, black licorice from The Netherlands. Even though they’re bad for my blood pressure and blood sugar.
3) Art Museums – I can spend more time in art museums than anyone. No matter where we travel to, if there’s an art museum or two or three or more, I have to go to as many as I can. It’s my scale for how much I like a city or place.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
I’m afraid of being on or in large bodies of water and other peoples’ dogs.
Did it rain up your way this morning? It’s spitting down here and Dear Daughter said it was raining at her apartment this morning and sprinkling at her office which is near SFO. Yeah for rain!!!
Karen says
Yes, YAY FOR RAIN! It’s been drizzling here on and off since this morning. I can’t believe I’m saying this but it feels SO GOOD. After last week’s crazy heat it’s nice to be able to walk around without sweating profusely.
P.S. What’s your favorite museum? Mine is the Musée d’Orsay in Paris. Amazing light and I love the Impressionists!
Heather L. says
1. I have never learned how to ride a bike!
2. Yes! From my Italian grandmother – and she was one heck of a cook. Some of the best restaurants I’ve been to don’t even come close.I lucked out…
3. Diamonds are my best friend. I love sparkly things and I feel luxurious wearing them.
4. (Not counting my make-up collection which is a given!) a) Atlantic City – I have such a blast going there for the beach, shopping, restaurants, amusements, and gaming! Did I mention the shopping! I try to go every 3-4 months! b) Coffee – one of life’s greatest pleasures that I couldn’t bear to live without, and c) video games on my Xbox One and PS4 – just what I need to unwind and relax when I can sneak some time in between working full time, college full time, and my blog work!
5. I love science fiction, video games, and a number of other things girls aren’t “supposed to” like, and I make no apologies!
I love rain too; it is oddly soothing.
Karen says
Hi Heather,
I love sci-fi! I love it so much that my daughter is named after one of the great ladies of sci-fi, Sarah Connor from Terminator!
Have you heard of a show called Black Mirror? It’s some of the best sci-fi I’ve ever watched.
Jaclyn levy says
1. I think my dad? I don’t really have a memory of it.
2. Pumpkin pie
3. Neither! Silver hoops.
4. Red lipstick, Netflix, my custom-made purse i bought in London
5. I just entered a weight lifting competition and although I preach body acceptance and strength as beauty, I still freak out about my looks.
Karen says
Hi Jaclyn,
How awesome! When is your weight lifting event? Do you have a lot of time to prep? You should talk to my friend Lili… She’s a weight lifter, too!
Stephanie Smith says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike? My parents, the old fashioned way, pushed me on it, I fell a lot, then learned. Both of my kids literally decided to ride bikes and got on and rode. I felt gypped, but was very proud!
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations? Lots! My grandma’s tacos we have every Christmas Eve, my other grandma’s rolls we have at Thanksgiving. And I swear I married my husband for his Dad’s potato salad recipe!
3. Diamonds or pearls? Pearls! My birthstone (June) and my older daughter’s middle name, they’re classy, you can dress them up or down, and they’re just spectacularly beautiful!
4. What are three things you really, really like?
1. Peppermint Mocha Frappuccinos
2. Pugs, mine is my third daughter
3. Drawing mandalas, they relax me and are always interesting.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you? I’m 41 and mildly obsessed with Pokémon Go! Lol!
Karen says
Hi Stephanie,
Do you guys celebrate the Christmas holiday on Christmas Eve? My family does that.
P.S. I’m super jealous that your family eats tacos every Christmas Eve. I loooove tacos!
Mel. B. says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike? My childhood friend, Randi at age 9. I was a bit of a late starter!
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations? Not really but my mom gave me a really great apple crisp recipe.
3. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds always. I don’t really like to wear pearls.
4. What are three things you really, really like? Make-up, yoga, and cats.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you? That I have a really great sense of humour.
Rachel R. says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike? I had to teach myself.
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations? No
3. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds! I need my sparkle.
4. What are three things you really, really like? 1) Makeup (duh!); 2)books/reading; 3) Duran Duran.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you? I have horrible, nearly crippling social anxiety and have veered into agoraphobia. Apparently, I hide it well.
Lulle says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
My grand-father. I learnt at my grand-parents’, where we would always spend most of the summer. At first I had a bike with little wheels on the side (no idea what they’re called). Then they were removed so I was freaking out a bit. So my grandpa tied a long belt around my waist that he was holding at the end and he would run next to my bike, lol! It went pretty well and soon I could do it on my own. There was this one time when I fell in a bush of stinging nettle though… I still remember that day vividly!
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
Yes, I guess I do, but they were not really secret recipes passed down in a medieval book. I observed my mom and my grandmas in the kitchen a lot as a kid, so I learnt a few things from watching them. One of my favorites is the “winter salad” that my grandma Odette liked to do: endives, cubes of apple, walnuts and cubes of cheese (gruyère or comté), and dressing with mustard seeds. Most people would use blue for the cheese but I hated it as a kid, and a hard cheese pairs very well with the rest too.
3. Diamonds or pearls?
Pearls. The whole unethical industry behind diamond mining makes it a no-go for me.
4. What are three things you really, really like?
– Earl Grey tea. I can’t really start my day without it, and I don’t think I’ll ever tire of the taste.
– Campfires, although I have a problem with smores: how do you NOT end up with marshmallow all over your hair??
– A night in on the couch with hubby and kitty. And Sleepy Time.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
Hmmm… When I was in my early 20s I was underweight – about 40 pounds less than I am today. Yet I still considered myself “fat”… my problem was accepting my body shape, really. I’m obviously a lot heavier today yet I’m much more comfortable with my body! Becoming more physically active has helped a lot, I think.
Hope you have a great week, Karen!
Efrain says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
My parents however I couldn’t and I left it for a year until one day I took it by myself and immediately I rode it.
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
From my mom’s side we have a lot of recipes that are from our state (Veracruz) like tamales, buñuelos, manjar de arroz, leche crema, mole, etc and some of them while not a family secret recipe, remind me of Cuban food like caldo de olla, arroz con frijoles and tostones.
3. Diamonds or pearls?
Pearls are mole delicate but diamonds look fancier on a big necklace.
4. What are three things you really, really like?
Watching series with my family.
Dancing.
Eating food, most food.
Extra: debate with my friends.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
Many people is surprised when they see I’m tougher than I look. For example a friend was amazed while watching me arm wrestling and many people don’t believe when I say that I fought with some of my bullies.
Susan C. says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
My dad. He must’ve been very patient, because the only foggy memory I have of the event involves me whining that I still needed training wheels!
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
Aunt Barbara’s famous peanut brittle! Other than that, there are a few handed down from my gram — I recognize her handwriting — but they don’t include any ingredient measurements.
3. Diamonds or pearls?
Diamonds! Pearls are too delicate for my rambunctious nature.
4. What are three things you really, really like?
~Dogs (especially big ones!)
~Moonlight on the ocean
~Hitchcock movies
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
I used to compete at Highland dancing when I was a kid. Once I hit my mid teens, I decided I’d rather mope in my bedroom and listen to David Bowie albums.
P.S. Bette Davis was quite the dame! Any time her movies are showing (usually on Turner Classic) I find myself glued to the screen. ?
Gloria says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
Papa Yang! But I didn’t ride much as I found “adult” bikes too high for my liking
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
My sister is responsible for learning the Yang family recipes. I don’t have the patience to cook for hours as required by all the traditional recipes. Also, they never say exactly how much of any ingredient to use!
3. Diamonds or pearls?
Diamonds locked in a safe, CZ to wear in case I lose it
4. What are three things you really, really like?
Puppies/kitties – they make me so happy! I can’t really touch kitties as I’m allergic to them, but I still like hanging out with them and watching them be cats. Dogs? Mildly allergic but their love is so worth it!
Tea – my dad loves tea. Watching him make tea with the clay pots is like watching a dance. The aroma, the way the flavored unravel in your mouth… Mm tea!
Cheetos – is there a reason not to like Cheetos?
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
I was suspended in 3rd grade for kicking a teacher. I thought he made an unfair call in the handball (or dodgeball?) game, he wouldn’t listen to my 8-year old reasoning, so I kicked him. My mom wasn’t so upset that I kicked a teacher, but was upset that I might get kicked out of student council.
Kate & Zena says
I’m so laaaaaaate! I was busy, busy, busy! Plus, my nephew and Zena were really trying my patience today!
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
My dad and one of his Army buddies. They thought learning to ride on the grass would be easier. I will state for the record it’s not.
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
“Generations?” No. But we did inherit (well, we stole from my aunt) my grams’ little cook box and we’ve been having fun looking through and trying some of them…and also crying. Some of them we definitely remember, but some my mom can do – like potato puff (it’s like a puff of potato *sings So good) – but it doesn’t taste like my grams’ because, well, MY GRAMS’ DIDN’T MAKE IT. It’s just one of those things, you know? Other people can make it, but it just won’t be the same because the person who you know who made it best isn’t here anymore.
That’s sometimes the hardest part about inherited recipes; they just aren’t the same because you know how they taste because of that person’s love and attention to it, but they aren’t there.
3. Diamonds or pearls?
-Pearls, because I feel too young for diamonds. I know there are plenty on young people who love diamonds, but when I put on diamonds, I just don’t feel sophisticated enough to pull them off. I have a whole set of inherited pearls from my grandmother, plus a some other inherited pearls from my uncle’s mom and pearls I got when I turned 18 (that were ethically sourced.) I wear my pearls more often.
4. What are three things you really, really like?
1. Zena because she is always there to greet me, even after a horrible day. She has no bounds to her love. She’s always willing to make me laugh, even when she isn’t necessarily at her best either.
2. The horses and ponies at my NFP. Each of them just have such unique stories – sometimes very sad ones which make you cry – but they all have found a second, happier life working with disabled children and adults. Some of the ponies make me laugh hysterically when I’m volunteering. Ernie is one that never fails to get me laughing. He loves rolling in the shavings and I don’t mind ridding him of the shavings as he’ll give you silly faces the entire time.
3. My nephew, T-Rex. Yes, I wouldn’t have said it last year (as he just screamed at 7 months old), but he’s become a crazy nugget. He LOVES Sesame Street, particularly the Count and Elmo. You should watch him dance to the Count’s song; it’s a riot.
5. Something people might be surprised to know about you?
I got Saturday morning detention my sophomore year of high school…for having a heat seizure. I apparently (according to my gym teacher) threatened to hit him if he came any closer to him. IT was a very hot day that day, my school at the time did not have air conditioning and I am very prone to heat seizures. I tend to either get very dazed or rather violent when I have them. This one happened to be a violent one and I felt really sick after so my mom took me to the doctor when I phoned her. I was diagnosed as suffering from a heat seizure and sent home.
Fast forward to the next day to when I was sent to the dean’s office. My dean was known to have a pole up his butt and he said, “Because you have a squeaky clean record, instead of a 3-day suspension [!!!!!!], you are getting a Saturday morning detention. I’m going to call your mom to inform her of the details.” Here I was, with a MEDICAL SLIP, detailing, “Miss Grant had a heat seizure and was not responsible for any actions that she might have done, blah, blah blah” and I. Was. Getting. DETENTION. Yea, well, I didn’t stay in gym long, let’s put it that way.
Alicia says
1. Who taught you how to ride a bike?
My dad… he didn’t really teach me, I just hopped on and balanced from the very beginning.
2. Do you have any family recipes that were passed down through generations?
No but schnitzel and spatzle are huge in my family, and my mom has taught me.
3. Diamonds or pearls?
diamonds
4. What are three things you really, really like?
Chocolate, fall leaves changing colour and chocolate.