Seven random things

I was tagged by Monique to share 7 random things about me. Here ya go:

1. I’m a geography and weather nerd. I have been known to read maps and atlases for fun, and I was one of the top geography students in the entire 7^th grade because I actually enjoyed memorizing where countries/peninsulas/rivers/etc are located. Although, I will fully admit that I don’t do as well in the “blue” category of Trivial Pursuit as I’d like (Brian finds this rather amusing). And weather fascinates me. In fact, call me a major geek, but I have signed up for a “weather spotter” class being held next month by my city.

2. I have been whale watching 4 times (twice in Alaska, once in California, once in Massachusetts).

3. I am striving for well-mannered, respectful children. This is one of my biggest goals as a mom. When my kids want something, I want them to always say “please.” And when they receive something, I want them to say “thank you.” Nicely. And without prompting. I think they’re already well on their way to having this down, as their conversations between each other often include their Ps & Qs.

4. I’m a wannabe rock star. Beware a long-winded response here. I was pretty much born with a passion for dancing and music (voila, rock star!). I started dancing when I was almost three, and took lessons for years. My first recital:

And in high school, I was on the pom-pom squad (my school’s version of a dance team at the time). I was co-captain my senior year:
From the time I was young, I have been making up dance routines (not so much these days). I also developed a passion for music of all kinds, especially rock, at a young age. In elementary school, I was always a “punk rocker” for Halloween, and used to dream about being in a rock band. Even not that many years ago:

A number of years ago, I won an air-guitar contest at a ward activity. For real. Me and a whole lotta guys, and I won. Although my tastes have really mellowed (you’re more likely to find me listening to stuff along the folk rock and lighter classic rock lines of Fleetwood Mac, Crosby Stills and Nash, John Denver, James Taylor, Bob Seger and Cat Stevens, I will occasionally pull out an old GNR song (hello, Sweet Child O Mine?) or Def Leopard song (Pour Some Sugar on Me) and have a rockin’ dance party with my kids. They love dance parties. One last thing here. I have about a dozen radio stations programmed in my van, and have a channel-changing obsession. And I have them programmed numerically chronological, and in order to get to a certain station, I have to do the entire rotation in order. It has been this way for years, and I am physically unable to change it. This generally drives everyone nuts who ever rides with me.

5. I have never colored my hair – ever. Not a highlight, nothing. I have more and more gray hair by the day. At some point this likely will force a change, but I’m holding out. And plucking. I’ve always been fine with my super dark hair color, but now is when I begin to curse it.

6. I have never had a strong desire to travel to Europe. Not like I wouldn’t go if offered a free trip, but I would choose several destinations before Europe: Peru, South Africa, an Antarctic cruise, Australia and Japan. Fortunately, Brian’s in agreement with at least half of these.

7. I love vanilla-flavored things (I always choose vanilla ice cream over chocolate), but generally don't like vanilla-scented things. Although, "Fresh Vanilla" at Bath and Body Works isn't half-bad!

And now I tag Jeannie, Tiffany, Lori, Susan and anyone else who wants to play along!