Summer, summer, summertime

Okay, we officially suck. We're slackers. We admit it. It's summer, it's hot, and, well, okay, I'm out of excuses.

I've been lamenting the fact that my kids will never have a "real" summer vacation. Sure, they won't have school, but they'll spend their days at the Y or at Parks Department day camps or whatever else we can scrounge up to keep them occupied during the day while we work. I'm so sad that they won't be bumming around the house, riding bikes around the neighborhood, exploring the back yard.... you get the idea.

What did you enjoy doing during the summers when you were little?

The time of our lives, anticipation.

If any of you are my Facebook friends, you know that I am suffering from post-vacation depression. (Or, as A Pea puts it, I have a "vacation hangover.") We just got back from a great trip to Orlando with my p's and I'm still reliving the moments of my kids experiencing Disney World for the first time. Vacations are just too short. Sniff.

Since the peas have had a looooong hiatus, I thought I'd try to kick things back off with a question today.

What was your best vacation ever?

What did you do last night?

I'm going to go out on a limb and say that only one of you can say that you were in labor!

Congratulations to Erin on the birth of Baby S.!!!

Pea love to you, little man!

It's not easy being green.

I saw a commercial the other day for some company or other, and it was all about being "Green." We just had a presentation at a recent Administrators' Forum on campus about Sustainability. It's all the rage. And, I have to confess, I'm a bit annoyed by it.

Don't get me wrong, I'm happy that at least there's a new craze with a positive global impact, but I'm kind of annoyed that it's the new trendy thing to do. Why can't people just be environmentally responsible? Why does it have to be the trendy thing to do in order for people to buy into it? Can't people just see the necessity of being "Green" without it being a fad? Why was it not cool to recycle before but it is now? IT'S ALWAYS BEEN IMPORTANT!

I'm sad that Corporate America is now doing this, not because they necessarily feel that it's important, but because they know that it's what their consumers want. I know, I know, I shouldn't complain -- at least there will hopefully be a positive outcome and we can "Start Global Cooling" (I saw this on a bumper sticker yesterday). But come on, people.... did you really not know about turning off the water in between toothbrush rinses before you saw the Home Depot commercial? Did you not know that you can ride your bike to save gas and strengthen your cardiovascular system? Once the next fad gets ushered in, will energy efficient light bulbs become a thing of the past?

I don't necessarily have a question for the day, but I'd like you all to chime in with your thoughts. Yea or nay to the new Sustainability Movement?

Reality fantasy check

I had lunch today with an old friend that I have not seen or talked to in, oh, probably 10 years or so. It was fantastic! I was quite jealous, though, because as I was scrambling to get back to work at a decent time, she had all the time in the world. She is doing some project management work, but on a pretty limited basis and is, for all intents and purposes, retired.

Ahhhh, the elusive R word that we all long for....

If you could retire today and know that you would be financially-but-not-extravagantly secure, what would you really do with your time? Yes, this is kind of a fantasy, but I'm not talking the cruises-around-the-world-every-month, spa-day-every-day type of living. Realistically, what would you like to do with your life if you didn't have to work every day?

I'm gonna be in the front roooowwww!

This weather is amazing! I would give anything to have a week off, completely free of responsibilities, to just kick back and enjoy the weather. On my fantasy week off, I would love to go to Ravinia and hang out with good friends, some wine and a picnic. (Who's in??)

Fantasizing about this led me to today's question...

If someone gave you free front row tickets to any concert of your choice, which artist/group would you like to see?

My Achy Breaky Heart

I'm listening to my iPod this afternoon, and "Every Rose Has its Thorn" just came on. Every time I hear this song, it absolutely breaks my heart. And, for once, it's not even related to an ex or past crush. Cheesy as it is, this song just is incredibly sad to me. "And now I hear you found somebody new, and that I never meant that much to you..." How does that not wrench your heart??

I was watching some VH-1 countdown once (Top 100 Breakup Songs, or something), and I could not believe that this was not #1. It was some random Michael Jackson song that I had never even heard of, much less cried to. How is that possible??

Okay, now I'm just babbling. It's been a long day and I felt the need to post a new QOD since we've been MIA for a while.

What songs break your heart every time you hear them, regardless of if they remind you of an ex?

Where's My Bag Phone?

My internet was down today.

For hours.

Now anyone that knows me also knows that I am nothing without my 'net. I felt the beads of sweat begin to form on my brow as I watched my little icon fruitlessly attempt a wireless connection, and watching the same panic stricken look overtake my co-workers showed me that I wasn't alone in my symptoms of withdrawal.

Ten years ago, I barely knew what the internet was. I had never heard of instant messaging, and gmail wasn't even a glimmer in my eye. Yet here I am now, bootlegging a LAN connection from the cube next to mine to hitchhike my way onto the super highway that has hijacked my life.

How did we ever get to this place? People have done without them for ages, but there are certain things that throw our lives into a complete tailspin when they're ripped from our grasp. Maybe you freak out if the microwave goes on the fritz b/c you need your Orville and you need it NOW! Or possibly you fail to believe that your satellite can't receive its signal and choose instead to channel up and down aimlessly hoping to stumble on just one second of Dancing with the Stars.

Tell us about the "modern conveniences" of your life that you simply cannot do without.

I can smile at the old days

Today's question is in tribute to my grandma, who passed away on Friday.

I have so many wonderful memories of her (and my grandpa) from growing up. We spent so much time with them, doing everything from playing baseball in their backyard to helping in the kitchen. They were completely and totally everything you think of when you think of "grandparents." I'm sure many of you have special memories of your own that bring a smile to your face when you think about them.

What is your fondest memory of your grandparents?

I'm a Believer

Easter has come and gone. Peter Cottontail is hopping back up the bunny trail, and parents everywhere are breathing a sigh of relief that their Easter Bunny duties are over. No more crouching down in impossibly small places to hide eggs and scrounging around for the perfect solid milk chocolate Easter bunny for the little ones' baskets (because everyone knows the hollow ones are a total letdown). Other than a possible visit or two from the Tooth Fairy that makes you wriggle a few bucks under your child's pillow, you're safe until December when you need to start perfecting your Ho Ho Hos and dropping hints as to what kind of cookies "Santa" really likes to find waiting w/that tall glass of milk on Christmas Eve.

Yes, holidays are so much more innocent for the young believers. We've all been there... enamored with the magic of the holidays until somehow, things just don't quite add up anymore. Maybe it was the glimpse of Uncle Joe passed out downstairs in his Santa suit with a bottle of whiskey on Christmas Eve, or the sight of Mom stuffing in a few last minute basket items that pesky bunny "forgot."

Tell us how you finally learned the truth or when you started to question the logistics of it all. Maybe you're frantically trying to keep the dream alive for your own kids or secretly wishing they'd just figure it out already. Either way, let us know about your own holiday hijinx of years gone by.

Read My... Shirt?

I have never felt safer than I do working here. Everywhere I look, I see members of our Security team, and the other day, I even saw someone from the FBI! Well, at least I thought I did until, using my own detective skills, I discovered that this fine chap was in charge of a new branch of governmental protection... Female Body Inspection.

Ugh. I'm happy that your daughter is Daddy's Little Diva and that Jesus is your homeboy. But do you really need to display it on a shirt for the world to know? It seems that now more than ever, words are printed all over our attire. Shirts, hats, bags... you name it. They all seem to be saying something.

My apologies if your clothing falls into this category. By all means, let us know what your favorite expressive shirts say and why you love them so much. We're two pretty open-minded peas. Otherwise, tell us about some of the more ridiculous, rude or downright weird clothing statements (literally) that you've seen lately.

Hollywood! La la la la la la la, Hollywood!

I am forever telling A Pea that someone needs to make a movie about her life. Specifically, about the crazy men that she attracts. I'd pay money to see it. I'm pretty sure people would be rolling in the aisles. I envision scene after scene of crazy date after crazy date. Or phone call, take your pick.

Which, of course, leads to the inevitable question, "Okay, T Pea, but who would play me?"

Hm.

"I'm not sure, that's a good question. In fact, that's a GREAT question for today's QOD!"

"Okay. Who's going to write it?"

I guess that would be me, what with the new filters at A Pea's work and all. (Curse them. Don't they know we have important business to conduct here?)

Don't you love how I've extended this into so much more than it really is? Okay, I'll cut to the chase. We'll go with a classic/old standby today.

If someone was going to make a movie out of your life, who would play you?

What a way to make a living.

While we're on the topic of jobs...

My father-in-law is addicted to that show -- "Worst Jobs Ever," or something like that. (I'm trying to find the actual name and am not having much luck -- anyone know what I'm talking about?) There are days when I may be frustrated in my job, but I do have to admit that it is not the Worst Job Ever. In fact, I actually like it most days. And on the days that I don't, well... at least I'm not cleaning Port-O-Potties for a living.

I know some of you have had some rather, well, interesting jobs. Take a break from your [hopefully not horrible] day and tell us about your Worst Job Ever. Or, if you don't really have a horror story, tell us about some of the weirdest things you've ever done to make a buck and put beer food on the table.

Take This Job...

Country music fan or not, you probably know how the rest of the blog title goes. Forgive me, but it's Monday, and I just can't bring myself to focus on things for one more minute.

Have you ever wished that you were one of those people who got up in the morning excited to go to work? Or maybe you are one of the lucky chosen few that feel that way. (If so, send a few pointers to the rest of us, will ya?) But if you, like me, have questioned whether or not these people actually exist, chances are you're not among them. Nonetheless, it's hard not to admire them and believe that someday, you too will stumble across an opportunity that brings you that kind of contentment. Maybe, just maybe, there is a job out there that can capture the joy, passion, creativity or whatever else is lacking in your current situation.

Taking into account that money is no option (you've got plenty) and you're free to choose a job that would bring you the riches that wealth alone can't offer, what job would materialize from your dream world to occupy your waking hours?

Pucker Up, Buttercup

Last night, ABC debuted a trainwreck of a show known as "Here Come the Newlyweds." Expecting an up-to-date version of the sometimes ridiculous, always amusing Newlywed Game, my mom tuned in, only to be disappointed by the lackluster show and its dimwitted participants.

She shared that in one of the brilliant skits, the lucky grooms were blindfolded and had to correctly identify their wives after being kissed on the cheek by all the females. Seriously, how the heck would you know?! Your loved one's kiss would have to be pretty memorable to register recognition with a simple peck on the check.

But then again, some kisses are that memorable. More often that not, good or bad, it's the first kiss. We aren't asking for gory details, but give us a bit of a hint as to what it was like for you. Maybe you were the boy on the playground pinning down all the girls in first grade, or possibly you were the late bloomer that didn't understand what all the hype was about until you were well into high school. Were you so happy to finally seal the deal with your long sought after crush, or did you find yourself wondering why you had just locked lips with the creepy kid next door in a twisted 4th grade game of spin the bottle? Whatever the circumstances, we're pretty sure you have some kind of story. Fill us in :)

Contest winner!

Congratulations to Jenn for winning the Refer-a-Blogger contest! Jenn, watch your mail for your prize. :)

(But you know how I am with sending packages... I'm better off bringing it in May -- you'll probably get it more quickly that way. Hee hee.)

Who Woulda Thought?

I'm a numismatist.

Okay, so maybe I'm not. (It's a coin collector, btw.) But I bet I made you crinkle your forehead in wonder and think "What the heck is she talking about? A Pea collects coins??" Or maybe you really are a fan of all things Franklin Mint and were thrilled to confide in a fellow coin lover after keeping your covert obsession secret all these years.

We all have things about us that people are shocked to know... those little idiosyncrasies that make each of us so complex and fascinating. Embarrassing or not, each of us has traits, habits or hobbies that surprise even our closest friends. Just when they think they have us figured out, we throw a curve ball in there. A simple librarian? I think not... unless that means all librarians rock out to Def Leppard in their living rooms.

We'll leave this one pretty open-ended to give you the chance to go where ever you may please with your response. Tell us how you wish that you could have cited your fluency in Pig Latin under the language section of your latest job application or once took the stage in your high school talent show to share your hidden juggling abilities with the world at large. Let us in a little bit. What is/are something(s) people would be surprised to learn about you?

And The Oscar Goes To...

I don't watch the Oscars. I'm not a movie buff to begin with, and the films that rank high on my list are usually far from any Academy worthy efforts. Rather than stare at the tv in complete confusion while actors I've never heard of accept awards for movies I've never seen, I usually skip the ceremony and catch the highlights on the next day's news feeds. (Aside from the fashion - you know I'm all about E!'s coverage of the pre-show.)

Personally, I'm a bigger fan of the Razzies - the awards that recognize all that is bad about movies. Or should I say they point out the creative genius of such stellar films as The Hottie and the Nottie and polish the acting chops of true stars of our time, like the Wayans Brothers. Alas, these stars may never be recognized by the Academy, but that doesn't mean there isn't room for a little creative liberty with the category list, right?

So, imagine if you will, you receive a mysterious envelope in the mail, bearing the seal of the Academy and a silhouette of that trademark Oscar statuette emblazoned on the flap. Oscar is looking to go a little non-traditional this year, and they need your help. In hopes of waking up viewers who nod off somewhere between Best Cinematography and Best Sound Effects editing, they're asking your opinion about what category should exist but doesn't.

So, help them spice things up a bit. If you were able to create a new "Best ..." award, what would it be and who/what would be the lucky recipient?

I'll take "Come again?" for $200, Alex.

Let's turn the tables today.

We here at Two Peas like to stand on our double wide soapbox and rant and rave about all of the idiots that we come across on (what seems like) a daily basis. But we confess that we are not perfect. (I know, I know, you're having a hard time believing that, aren't you?) We, too, have been known to be idiots on occasion.

So, let's make today Confession Friday. Everyone's said or done something in their lives that they are (to say the least) not proud of. Share some of your doozies. We promise not to laugh. Too hard.

Earworm

One of the main reasons that I can't wait for winter to be over is: country music.

Yes, country music. I can't stand it. A song here or there isn't too bad, but I just can't stand listening to song after song after song. Unfortunately, school closings in our area are announced on the local country music station. So, every winter I reset my clock radio to Indiana 105 ( o/~ Indiana 105 wea-ther! ~\o ) and listen for the school closings in between hitting the snooze button on blustery/icy mornings.

This morning, however, I was treated to an oldie but goodie -- Kenny Rogers' "The Gambler." Unfortunately, it is now stuck in my head and I just can't shake it.

You got to know when to hold 'em,
(When to hold 'em!)
Know when to fold 'em,
(When to fold 'em!)
Know when to walk away,
And know when to run.

Those earworm songs are like leeches -- you just can't shake 'em! They move in to your brain, unpack, and settle back into their recliners for the long-haul before you know what hit you.

What are some of the songs that make you think, "Oh, no.... this is going to stick in my head for the next week!" as soon as you hear the first few notes?

Seriously, who ARE you people?

I just witnessed an accident on campus that made me totally lose my mind. A woman pulled out in front of me without looking or even slowing down, then proceeded to do this TWO MORE TIMES -- even AFTER I laid on my horn to get her to pay attention.

The third time was a charm -- she got hit.

And she did not seem fazed in the least bit. After my ranting and raving (I got out to give my phone number to the poor guy who hit her), she proudly declared, as if in explanation, "I'm a new driver!"

Then wouldn't you think you'd be EXTRA cautious in this weather? Or, better yet, STAY OFF THE ROADS????

Who ARE these people?

Let's have it today. We're all sick of this weather (yeah, yeah, except for Jenn in Florida...), we've all got cabin fever, and we just need to let it out.

Tell us about the most blatant displays of rule breaking (or just plain idiocy) that you've witnessed and made you think, "Seriously, who ARE you people?"

Hi! My Name is...

In light of the recent announcement of the most popular baby names of '07, I found myself mulling over the monikers that just might top the "best of the worst" list. These are the names that make you shake your head in wonder, trying to figure out why any parents would set their child up for what is sure to be a lifetime of teasing. You know the names I'm talking about... Heaven Leigh, Rain Beau, Carolyn Noel.

Perhaps we aren't totally to blame. Influences are everywhere, with a whole new crop of Apples, Cocos and Violets popping up on the celebrity playground. We've even learned how to twist the most common names into something a little more interesting. Wave goodbye to Alex, Faith and William, and say hello to Alyxx, Fayth and Wylliem instead!

Yes, it seems that non-traditional names are here to stay. Put little Jack Daniel down for a nap, and take some time to let us know what names make you cringe or giggle each time you hear them and think "Wow. Even if I don't love my name, thank God it's not ..."

Sometimes you feel like a nut.

Andrew and I were watching a program about commercials the other night, and I was absolutely amazed at the creativity that is poured into some of these advertising campaigns. Let's face it: like it or love it, McDonald's has been phenomenal with their advertising. Happy Meals? Genius. (Have you been to a fast food restaurant lately that doesn't have a kids' meal of one kind or another?) And their partnership with Coca-Cola? Well, if you haven't had a Coke in the past year, you're obviously not doing your part in teaching the world to sing in perfect harmony.

On the other hand, there are those ads that you just have to wonder, "And they paid someone to come up with this for them? I'm so sorry...." Whatever Eagle Man has for me, I'm certain that it's nothing I want.

And let's not forget about jingles. How many of you finished the song by singing, "Sometimes you don't!"? They stick in your head. That, my friend, is when you know you've been successfully marketed to. It could be the dumbest commercial in the world, but if it has a catchy jingle... well, you'll never forget that product, will you?

In honor of Presidents' Day being exploited by every furniture store in America today, tell us about your favorite (and not-so-favorite) commercials, slogans and jingles throughout the years.

I won.

Look closely -- can you see the faux cross stitching?



And the inside:



(I don't really call him "Schmoopy," btw. It just added to the cheese factor.)

Andrew did put forth a valiant effort, though:



We then spent the night bathing the boys, picking up the house, washing dishes and folding laundry. Ah, could you die from the romance of it all?

You Don't Bring Me Flowers Anymore

Love it or hate it, there's no denying it. It's Valentine's Day. The day that causes otherwise normal people to become that schmuck ahead of me in line today at Walmart, buying Whitman's Sampler in the shape of a heart and a single rose encased oh so beautifully in a plastic sheath. Don't you wish you were the lady in his life?

Or maybe you really are one of those romantics who has been pinching pennies for weeks to afford dinner at that oh so exclusive restaurant. You gaze into each other's eyes, reveling in the perfection of the night... until you're presented with food so small (yet overpriced) it makes Wally Walmart's Whitman Sampler look like a pretty good bet after all.

Either way, we're pretty sure you have some kind of reaction to the holiday. Whether it's a groan of disgust in protest of all that Hallmark has created in poor St. Valentine's wake or a cheer of exultation in honor of the glory of love in all its finest forms, let us know how you feel. And while you're at it, tell us why. Maybe it's a day you'll never forget it b/c it marks the anniversary of the day you met the special someone in your life. Then again, maybe it marks the fateful eve when Mr. So-called Wonderful broke your little heart not so many years ago. We know you have your own ideas about the 14th of Feb, so let's hash it out. Valentine's Day -- yay or nay?

The Contest.

Okay, so maybe you don't care about winning a blogging contest. Maybe you're thinking, "I don't really want whatever dumb prize they have tucked up their proverbial sleeves. " Don't think of it that way, then. Think of it as helping out a friend and recruiting your friends to join in the fun! And if you're a lurker, feel free to post any time now. Aaaaany time. Go ahead. You can do it. We know you can.

The contest deadline has been extended to Friday, February 29.

[gavel cracked]

Whatever happened to Amelia Earhart?

Imagine this. You're standing in line at the Pearly Gates. You look around and see, well, whatever it is that you imagine that Heaven looks like. Above the gates is a scrolling marquee:

-----

Temperature: 75 and sunny

Welcome, Bill Marshall from Schenectady!

Tonight only - Elvis! See Apollo for tickets!

Now Playing at the Multiplex: Bridget Jones's Diary, You've Got Mail, The Mummy, Top Gun, Stand By Me, Glory, Serendipity

Next Q & A Session: 20 minutes

-----

Q & A session?

You lean forward to the person in front of you in line and ask, "What's a Q & A session?"

He turns around and explains, "Oh, the Q & A session! That's supposed to be the best part of being here! We get to go and ask any question that we've always been, well, dying to know the answer to! Heh, heh. No pun intended."

"Hmmmm!" you think. "Any question? I can find out everything I've always wanted to know?"

You lean forward again and ask your new friend, "Where do I sign up??"

What would you ask?

Hangin' Tough

Break out your Monkees lunch box and whip out those NKOTB buttons - teen idols are back! Faster than you can say Hannah Montana, the next generation of teen superstars has stormed the world, poised to ride the wave of superstardom before assuming their rightful places in Teen Idol History, cozied up in between David Cassidy and Color Me Badd.

Maybe you don't get the new obsession with today's teens. What's so special about brothers who sing? Been there, done that, Jonas Brothers. Ever heard of Hanson? Chances are, you're a little too old to understand why Zac Efron is so dreamy b/c in your world, High School Musical is just something your senior class did every spring. But someone even begins humming the first few lines to Greased Lightnin', and you're back at Rydell High quicker than you can hand jive.

So quit playin' games with my heart. Confess to these teen stars that had you swooning as you pored over the pages of Teen Beat, ripping out pictures and posting them above your bed as only a true fan would. We know the plot to Stand By Me wasn't the real reason you kept coming back for more, Corey lover. Spill it. Who were/are your favorite teen idols?

Two Peas on MySpace!

We are now on MySpace! Our site needs some work, but we are there, and there is a link back to our blog.

If you are also on MySpace, hook a pea up and add us as a friend!

In other news -- A Pea and I have been a bit busy the past couple days, but rest assured that questions will resume soon.

Peas out.

Turtle Power

They were heroes in a half shell, and they were green. Even though they lived in a sewer and answered to a giant rat, things weren't so bad for those mutant ninja turtles.

And what about Catwoman? Sure, tuna might get old after a while and that black suit may be a bit uncomfortable on really hot days, but those razor sharp claws could come in handy sometimes.

We aren't in Gotham City anymore my friends, so say goodbye to Batman b/c there's a new kid in town. If you were suddenly granted magical super abilities tomorrow, what would they be? And, if you're feeling especially inspired, let us know what your super sweet superhero name would be... you know you have one :)

And Bingo was his name-o.

I was just driving back from lunch and heard Kid Rock on the radio, and I thought to myself, "Really? You could have picked anything, and this is what you came up with? Dude, you're clever." I mean, can't you just see it? He and his buddies were sitting around one day, probably getting loaded, when someone called him "Kid Rock" and he said, "That's totally the name I'm gonna use when I make it big!" And all his friends were like, "Duuuuude, that's awwwwesoooooome!"

So I got to thinking about the other dumb names for bands or solo artists... LL Cool J? "Ladies Love Cool James?" Are you serious? Were you, like, 15 when you thought of that? And come on, Mark Wahlberg, was Marky Mark really the best you could come up with? Or how 'bout that guy from The New Radicals? Dude, it's only you. Get over yourself.

So today is a Crabby Monday Sound Off. Let 'em rip. What musician or band names do you think are completely moronic?

Are You Alone in the House?

So, last night I was driving home after work and met a car that didn't have its lights on. Now I know I don't have the world's best night vision, but seriously. It was only dusk, but it was definitely dark enough that, unless he was sporting some night vision goggles, this guy wasn't seeing clearly. Trying to be helpful, I flashed lights at the car. Nothing. I did it again. Still nothing. Was this guy kidding? Right as we passed, I flashed them a third time.

And then he turned around. Before I knew what was happening, he was on my tail with his brights on, flooding my car with light. I kept speeding up to get away, but he matched me mile for mile. Becoming frantic, I picked up my phone to call 911 and heard what I'm pretty sure was a shot come from the other car. What was I going to do?!

HA! Gotcha, didn't I?

Urban legends. We all know them, and some of us love them. All of us fall for more of them than we want to admit. Some are silly and explain why you'll never mix Pop Rocks and Coca Cola. Others are a little more serious... which is why you will never ever say the words "Bloody Mary" while standing in front of any mirror. Maybe your superstitions run so deep that you won't answer the phone when you're home alone, minding your business and making your Jiffy Pop, b/c there's the off chance that the call is coming from inside your own house. Hey! It can happen. Look how long Drew Barrymore lasted in Scream.

It's okay to admit you're a little scared or embarrassed. We've fallen for the best of these too. Tell us - what urban legends give you a case of goosebumps every time you hear them?

Baby, it's cold outside, part deux

I stayed in bed this morning until the last possible minute, listening to a local radio station and praying for a snow day.

No luck.

Andrew had the day off, anyway, so he and the boys are home, sleeping in, staying in their jammies all morning, who knows what else? I'm so jealous.

What would you rather be doing (realistically) today, than what you're doing right now?

The List

Yep, you know what I'm talking about. The List. Imagine this...

You're out to dinner with your spouse/significant other. You're having a perfectly lovely time, enjoying each other's company, the food, the ambiance of the restaurant... When out of the corner of your eye, you see someone approaching your table. S/he looks down at at you and says, "Pardon me, but I can't help but notice how unbelievably attractive you are. You must come join me for dinner at my table."

Without a backward glance at your partner, you leap out of your chair to follow. And you know that when you arrive home, your partner can't say a word about it because this is part of the pact. You're allowed to ditch each other in a heartbeat if that certain someone comes along to sweep you off your feet.

Who's on your list?

Date Night!

It's Friday!! Date night, for those of you who are still lucky enough to have the energy and funds to do so.

Since I do so love a flashback QOD, indulge me...

There you are, stepping out of the shower to get ready for your date. Your stomach is all in knots and you're positively giddy about the night ahead of you. Maybe it's a first date. Maybe it's Prom. Maybe you're hoping to get engaged that night. You pick out the perfect outfit, do your hair just right (guys - you towel dry it to stunning perfection) and you know, absolutely know, that this is going to be the best night of your life.

[insert clock with hands zooming around here]

It's the end of the night. You come home utterly exhausted. You stumble into your room and don't even bother brushing your teeth because it would take too much energy. You flop on your bed and think to yourself, "Ho-ly crap, that was the single WORST date that I have EVER been on in my ENTIRE life."

Spill it. What happened?

It's a contest!

Okay, QODers, here's the deal...

We love y'all, but we're greedy. We want more. So, to inspire you to spread the word, we're holding a contest. Tell your friends, family members, co-workers, best friend's sister's boyfriend's brother's girlfriend -- you name it -- about us. Have them come check us out, peruse the board, answer some questions and join our community. Then, have them send a note to twopeasinaqod-at-gmail.com to tell us all about how wonderful you are for bringing such a light to their lives.

Whoever rounds up the most suckers new members of our community will win a lovely little prize from your hosts, A Pea and T Pea. And really, who doesn't want a little Pea Love to brighten up their day?

So go. Spread the word. Have your friends tune in and write us by Friday, February 8. The winner will be announced that following weekend.

Peas out!

Do I spy a fin?

For those of you unfamiliar with the term "jump the shark," this refers to that moment in a show when you know it will never be the same again. It's allll downhill from here. (This term stems from the episode of Happy Days when Fonzie jumped the shark on water skis. For more info, see: www.jumptheshark.com.)

Think back to your favorite shows that you've enjoyed over the years. Were you crushed when Brenda moved away? Or maybe when Kimberly pulled off her wig, you knew it was all over. And you've never quite forgiven that Oliver kid for infiltrating the Brady family. Or Vaughn for marrying Lauren while poor Syd was being brainwashed. Whatever the show, whatever the moment, lie down on the couch and tell us all about it.

We'll be right here for you, listening and channel surfing.

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With a final spray of Aqua Net, you crimp your bangs one last time and fluff the rest of your perfectly teased sideways ponytail that's held in place by your favorite neon scrunchie (which, of course, matches your brand new leg warmers and jelly shoes). After a finishing coat of blue mascara and swipe of hot pink lipstick, you slip on your fringed jean jacket, give yourself one final look in the mirror and decide you are ready to roll. Watch out world. You, my friend, are lookin' goooood.

Or, maybe you were one of those too cool guys with the effortlessly chic Flock of Seagulls haircut who laughed at all the girls around you who looked so ridiculously un-rad, all the while sporting your popped collar polo shirt and finest pegged jeans with your Reebok high tops.

Dust off the never fail duds of your past that you would now never be caught dead wearing. What were some of your "best" clothes of the decades past that now make you shake your head in shame?

Drive It Like You Stole It

HONK HONK!

You're suddenly zapped back to consciousness by the impatient driver behind you, gesturing at you to get a move on since the light obviously turned green more than two seconds ago, and he's in a hurry. With a roll of your eyes and an exasperated sigh, you're on your way. But you can't stop thinking about the very thing that distracted you in the first place - the bumper sticker on the car ahead of you that proudly proclaimed one of the most outrageous statements you've ever seen.

There's nothing wrong with personal expression and all the creative urges it fulfills. But enough is enough. Must there really be a bumper stick for *every* cause, belief and/or accomplishment out there? Have you ever found yourself glaring at the driver who finally zooms past you after miles of tailgating, only to see a sticker on his bumper that states he wasn't tailgating after all - he was draftin'! Well thank goodness he cleared that up for you - you had spent the past ten miles cursing him for riding your bumper for no reason! Or possibly you've avoided hitting the car that pulled out in front of you simply because that yellow diamond reminded you there was a Baby on Board. Otherwise, it would have been fair game, even if their kid could have beaten up your honor student.

You don't have to own up to any of your own bumper stickers (we all have those skeletons in our closet - it's okay) but tell us, what are some of the most outrageous, unbelievable or just downright dumb stickers and/or auto flair you've ever seen?

Baby, it's cold outside.

Ugh, I hate the cold. I'm a total baby in this weather. (And in the extreme heat, too, but that's a different post for a different day.) It makes me want to curl up on my couch with a comfy blanket and a cup of hot chocolate and watch movies all day.

Fully realizing that the answer to "what's your favorite movie?" can vary, depending on the way you look at the question, today's question is a two-parter: 1.) What's the best movie you've ever seen? and 2.) What movie can you watch over and over and over and never get sick of it?

Oh Snap!

The snap of gum coming from the obnoxious girl in line ahead of you at the grocery store is enough to send you over the edge. Then she whips out her cell phone and starts to talk as the poor cashier attempts to tell her the total of her purchase, and you are certain you're going to lose it. Shaking your head in disbelief as she leaves the store, you make your purchase just in time to see her speeding out of her handicapped parking spot, although she didn't look the least bit hurt when you last saw her.

Pet peeves. We all have them. The little things that people do that drive us past the brink. What are yours??

Excuse me while I kiss this guy.

So there you are. Cruising along with your best friend, on your way to have some fun in the sun. You have the windows down and the tunes cranked. You're both singing at the top of your lungs when suddenly, you realize you're the only one singing. You look over to see your friend staring at you with an odd hint of shock and confusion dancing in her eyes.

"What?"

Silence. Then hysterical laughter.

"I want a new TRUCK?! A truck?!? Since when are those the words? It's drug. I want a new drug. Who would sing a song about wanting a new truck?!"

So come on, spill it. Give us a laugh today. Tell us about a time that you were driving along and belting out the lyrics to one of your favorite songs, only to have your passenger look at you and say, "Um.... those aren't the words..."

QOD FYI ASAP!

Holy acronyms, Batman - it must be time for some quick question of the day information!

We have heard your cries, loyal readers, and we apologize for not further clarifying ourselves when we originally launched this thing. So, in an attempt to make things better for you (and let's face it, for us too), we're going to give you a little refresher course in the beauty of blogging.

• You can answer ANY question - not just today's! Not so inspired by today's musings? That's fine - go back a couple days or a couple months and see if there's something else that strikes your fancy.
• To answer the question for another day, you have a few options. You can either scroll down through and read them all (which is our suggestion - you never know which ones you'll love!) or visit the Blog Archive on the right side menu that features the titles of all past posts organized by month/year.
• Once you find the question/questions you like, replying is easy! Simply click on the little note below the post that says "3 Comments" (or however many we've had for the day). You'll be taken to a screen on which you can write your response in the handy box on the right side. Our only request - please leave a nickname! Don't want to fess up to your response for fear that your 6th grade crush will finally discover your long-lasting unrequited love? It's okay to create a clever alias - no one said the name has to really be yours!
• Posting alerts are available through RSS feeds. We admit this is a bit over our heads. For more info, drop Andrew a line at his yahoo address: act8686.
• The best way to show off your newfound tech savvy knowledge? Share the blog with your friends! Tell them about Two Peas and invite them to join in!!
  

We hope this gives you a little more freedom to release your inner blogger! Peas out!

Is This Thing On?

We're taking a bit of a detour from our traditional QOD at twopeas today.

To make a long story short, we miss our readers and respondents! Where have you all gone?! After some good momentum to send '07 out on a high note, we've started off '08 a bit slowly. So, what can we do to make the deal sweeter? What would make you suddenly pause in the middle of your busy schedule to say "I haven't answered twopeas yet today!" and immediately hop over to the blog?

Do Over

There you are. 18 and ready to face the world. Fresh off high school graduation, you're flying high with anticipation about what the future has to offer. You're optimism is unclouded - you're ready for college and the chance to make your dream career a reality.

Fast forward to the first test you barely pass or the first horrible group project you trudge through, and you're suddenly in the Twilight Zone... wondering whether your dream career will turn into a nightmare life sentence. Maybe you change your major, maybe you work through it, maybe you give up. Whatever option, you're now questioning why society makes us choose our futures (or at least take a good stab at it) at such a young age.

Ahh yes... the formative years that shape our souls. Go back to those day when you're reviewing all your "major" options with an adviser, picking the course that will define the glory days until you reach retirement. But, one thing is different. Your 18 year old self has all the knowledge and life experience that the 2008 you has right now. With this in mind, what would you *really* choose to study? Would you be in college at all? Would you pursue another dream?

Hold on to the Nights

As my kids were running around the house this morning, getting under our feet, bickering with each other and screaming the classic "HE STARTED IT!!", I thought, "Oh, dear God, when does it END??"

So let's escape and hold on to the nights of yesteryear...

If you could relieve any year of your life in exactly the same way (no changes!!), which year would it be?

The Name Game

What is your iPod's name?

Dream a little dream of ... ?

Okay, the holidays are over. You shopped 'til you dropped. For everyone BUT you. Let's continue in our fantasy world this week...

Someone gives you $1000 with some very specific rules: It must be spent on you. For non-necessities. In one place.

Where do you go?

V-A-C-A-T-I-O-N

Just because most of us are returning from an extended holiday break doesn't mean we can't still think about vacation. Face it. When you woke up this morning, you probably didn't think "Finally! I get to go back to work!" And if you did... what's wrong w/you???

In the spirit of escaping from the ho hum corporate world for a bit longer, let's take a little trip together, shall we? Leave behind the snow that never seems to stop falling, reminding you flake by flake of how nice it would be to be somewhere sunny, warm and miles away from the monotony of everyday life.

You're on a plane (or in a car, depends on where you're going), headed for your dream vacation destination(s). Of course, in our world, money and time are no objects, so feel free to indulge your wildest vacation desires on this little fantasy trip. Where are you going to escape for a while, if only in your dreams?