How Fare Thee? Two Lighthearted Conversations + A Fast Test To Determine Your Stress

/ Ally Bean
LAUGHING

A delightful former neighbor stays in touch. She moved across country and usually emails or texts, but one day she called me to talk.

Like old-timey friends.

In the process of catching up on who we each have stayed in touch with she asked me about, let’s call her, Martha.

While it’s been well over a decade since either heard from her directly, Martha is sometimes in the local news around here.

In fact I was able to explain to former neighbor that Martha, a state government employee, has been accused of failing to disclose a conflict of interest involving a  corporate lobbyist. She has denied the accusations, but resigned from her job.

Upon hearing this my former neighbor shouted, “she didn’t do it.”

I asked, “how do you know?”

“Because there’s no way she’d do anything illegal.” 

I persisted, “it’s been years since we talked with her, how can you be so sure? She may have changed. People do, you know.”

Former neighbor said, “because I sang with her in the church choir and no one in that group would ever do anything wrong.” 

To which I replied sarcastically, “well there you go! As we all know singing your heart out for Jesus is a valid legal defense against criminal accusations.”

As if!  🙄

LOVING

I overheard this.

While this isn’t the first time I’ve written about a kid who got lost in the bottom of the ravine behind our house, this succinct little plea for help charmed me. Girlfriend was NOT happy and knew exactly who was to blame for her predicament.

Here’s what happened. I walked into our kitchen at the back of the house around 5:00 p.m. The windows were open and I immediately heard a LOUD kid voice [maybe age 5 or 6?] shouting from below.

“Find me,” the voice said.

I stepped outside onto the deck to see if I could see who was shouting.

“Find… Me…,” the voice commanded.

Squinting through the leafy tree branches I looked down into the ravine, but couldn’t see anyone. However I could hear a small person whose tone of voice didn’t suggest panic, just increasing irritation with the adult powers that be.

“FIND ME!”

I was about to shout back when I heard a dad say, “Katelyn? Is that you?”

“FIND ME, NOW!” 

Picking up on the irritation in her voice I heard the dad start laughing as he asked, “where are you?”

Then in one of the best deadpan punchline deliveries ever our Miss Katelyn replied stating the obvious, “DOWN. HERE.”  

She sighed loudly implying, I believe, that it took all her effort to not say *DUH* to this dimwitted dad person whose job it is to rescue her from predicaments like this one.

And with that her father, still laughing so loudly I could hear him, maneuvered down the side of the ravine cheerfully saying, “I’ll get ‘ya!”

And he did. 🥰

LEARNING

I stumbled over this Psychology Today How Stressed Are You? Test and decided to answer the 20 questions.

From my test results I learned that I’m at 24/100 and the average is 59/100. This means I’m “Not stressed” which came as a surprise to me. Not that I’m jonesing to be more filled with stress, mind you— just that I thought I’d rate a higher score.

I feel a bit like an underachiever.

However, I attribute my relaxed attitude to the fact that FOR ONCE our annual spring home maintenance that requires 5 scheduled visits from 4 companies has happened WITHOUT INCIDENT. This means that the landscape beds and the lawn sprinkler system and the gutters and the windows and the AC system have been mulched or activated or cleared or cleaned or serviced BEFORE Memorial Day.

A personal best! 😃

QUESTIONS OF THE DAY

Do you know anyone who is currently in trouble with the law? Is or was that person part of a church choir?

Have you ever called out for someone to rescue you? If so, did someone rescue you?

Had or overheard any funny conversations lately? 

If you took the test how stressed does it say you are? Does this jive with how you feel?

~ ~ • ~ ~

208 thoughts on “How Fare Thee? Two Lighthearted Conversations + A Fast Test To Determine Your Stress”

  1. A large part of the reason why there are many troubled parts of the world is because some of those church choir members don’t know the difference between opinions and facts or even if there is a difference. Yikes. But no, I don’t know of anyone with legal issues right mow.

    Nope, I’ve never called out for a rescue (that I can remember. Maybe I did when I was very little.) I used to be involved in Search and Rescue. Sometimes it’s a cat in a tree; sometimes not.

    Overheard any funny conversations? Ummm, you mean apart from politicians?

    I looked at the test but didn’t need to take it. 18 months ago before I retired, my stress levels would have way, way up there, but not any more! I love being retired!

    A very enjoyable post, Ally. Cheers.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Lynette, hear, hear— there’s a big difference between opinions and fact. I couldn’t stop laughing at my friend’s church choir defense that she realized was absurd, too.

      Good point about politicians and their funny conversations. I listen to/read what is said then wonder what color is the sky in their world?

      Retirement does lend itself to lower stress levels. You are right about that. I answered the 20 questions quickly not overthinking any of my answers. Still sort of surprised by my score.

      Liked by 2 people

    • Kate, I didn’t know about the church choir defense either, but now that I do I can’t stop laughing about it. You know I thought I’d be more stressed than the test score told me I was— which has made me feel a little more stressed. 😵‍💫

      Liked by 2 people

  4. Lol the test results are not exactly a surprise. 63/100! That puts me in the highest possible point for “slightly stressed” and one point below very stressed. Once I stop working I should be able to tie my score with yours.

    I was in a choir for a long time. It was a symphony choir and not a church choir, but still, if anyone in there had been accused of a crime, my first thought would have been that they didn’t do it. When someone gives up a night every week for most of the year to sing Beethoven and Brahms, you do tend to give them the benefit of the doubt.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Birchwood Pie, good point about not working = less stress overall. I’ll admit to that and am sure you’ll take to retirement like a duck to water.

      You make a good point about how dedication to singing for the sheer joy of it could mean you have your priorities in the right place. You’re not a miscreant. I can’t say for sure anything about Martha, but why not think the best of her.

      Liked by 1 person

  5. Hum…it’s been a minute since I was in the church choir maybe I need to get back in it. 😂😂

    I have been rescued once when I was ten. We went to Salt Lake City for Christmas vacation to spend it with my Mom’s bff and her family. The adults wanted a kid free day so they took us up to a ski resort to ski. Mind you, I hadn’t been in the snow since I was an infant, we lived in southern Calif. and surprise! I had never skied before. No worries the kids said,” we’ll teach you!” HA! I promptly fell flat on my face getting off the lift then skied myself right off a cliff landing up to my chest in snow. Before I could start screaming for help, or so it seemed the Snow/Ski Rescue team was digging me out. They tried to convince me that I could ski and get the skis back on. I laid those skis on their sled thanking God I was still alive and said I’d walk down with them.
    Once back at the lodge I passed a line of kids waiting their turn to buy tickets. I saw a kid that looked like he could ski so I gave him my day pass. Then I walked into the lodge bought a hot chocolate drink, and fashion mag and sat by the fire the rest of the day. Any day you can walk away from skiing off a cliff is a great bloody day! I haven’t tried to ski since, and I probably won’t try it again ever!

    I took the stress test. I got a 3/100. WOOT! No stress!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deborah, I love this story! I don’t know anyone who has skied off a cliff. I’m glad you were rescued promptly, that’s a relief. Your adult wisdom in light of surviving the experience shines through. Good for you giving that boy your pass, good for you knowing that a fashion magazine and a day by the fire was a much better use of your time than sliding down a hill. At age 10 you had common sense.

      You got 3!!! That’s amazing and suggests that it take a lot to upset you. You are mellow.

      Liked by 2 people

  6. Although I don’t know anyone in the slammer, or anyone who’s been forced to hire legal counsel, I do have a friend who’s locked in battle with her HOA, who are threatening several forms of punishment if she doesn’t get with the program. In the eyes of the HOA board, she certainly is a law-breaker.

    I suppose my best need-for-rescue happened in January many years ago. It was cold, I had on multiple layers of clothing, and managed to trip on a line stretched across a dock at low tide. Into the water I went. I managed to get myself onto the swim platform, but the door from the platform to the stern deck was locked. So, I was sitting there, pondering it all, when a kid carrying a bucket and scrub brush came down the dock, heading for the boat he was going to wash. He looked down and asked, “What are you doing down there?” “Waiting for YOU,” I said. “Come on board this boat and unlock that back door.” Which he did.

    As for my stress test, I came in at 16. There always is a variety of stressors in my life — bad weather, loss of customers, and so on — but things that drove me crazy two or three decades ago don’t bother me much any more. I just set out looking for a solution.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Lindaa, funny you’d mention an HOA. Once upon a time we were involved in a lawsuit because of our HOA’s mismanagement of some things. We were sued in a class action suit wherein one person sued the many. Long story, boring, but hadn’t thought of it in years. Good luck to your friend, we needed legal counsel to get a resolution.

      Your rescue story is amazing in how it ended well for you. Marvelous comeback to the kid with the bucket and scrub brush. I’m smiling.

      I agree with you that things that would have sent me over the edge 10 years ago I now view with an equanimity that surprises me. I’m less stressed now overall, but still willing to call out that which matters— just finding less of it matters.

      Liked by 2 people

  8. Sorry, the first three don’t apply right now in my life and it would stress me out to try to make up a story just to answer 😉

    However, my stress score is 18/100 so life apparently is smooth sailing! Surprising a bit given my focus is on moving but that test did seem somewhat work/employment related and given that I no longer work…

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deb, answering questions here is optional— always. I ask them as a starting point not as mandatory! 😜

      Your stress score is an admirable one. Or maybe I should say your lack of stress score is a good one. Excellent observation about the slant on the stress test questions. I find these quizzes not on purpose but by accident, then feel I must take them.

      Liked by 2 people

  10. Love the story of the child in the ravine – so matter of fact. I have a relative (not to be named) who is very involved with the church and really, she is the poster child for sin. No guarantees, I guess, lol.

    Liked by 2 people

    • VJ, the little girl in the ravine wasn’t worried, just waiting for her inevitable rescue. I loved her sangfroid. I predict good things for her in life.

      Yes, many people have mentioned that being involved in a church is no guarantee that the person is trustworthy. I get it.

      Liked by 2 people

  11. I in the not at all stressed category so that’s. good thing and as I excpected ) I’m on my condo board, which is very low stress, with a small group of condos and owners mostly grad students, professors, hospital employees, ex-hippies, retirees, all pretty liberal and laid back and even with this, and no big complaints, I’m hoping to retire from the board soon, but just was reelected )

    Liked by 2 people

    • Beth, I was pleased when I saw my result on the stress test. Like you I thought this is a good thing, go with it.

      Your condo board sounds like a pleasant mix, everyone on the same page. It’s exciting that you were reelected, even if you are contemplating retiring soon. If nothing else, staying on the board will keep your mind clicking!

      Liked by 2 people

  12. As far as I know, I don’t know anyone in trouble with the law – unless you count my adult kid who got yet another red light camera ticket delivered to my home. He didn’t sing in the choir though, obviously.

    I’ve not called to people for help, but when I was about 10 years old, I was riding my bike to a friend’s house. A man’s voice called to me, “Help. Go get the lady next door. I need help.” He’d heard my mom call good-bye to me. I stopped my bike and looked around. It was a man in the garage of the house that was being built next door. I went back inside and told my mom that a worker next door needed help. Then I went to my friend’s house. When I got home, my parents sang my praises. I guess I’d done a good thing. The guy was in some sort of distress. Had he had a stroke? I’m not sure, but an ambulance was needed. He’d been working at the house alone.

    I did take the stress test. I got a 20/100. I think that’s largely because my work life isn’t very stressful. Busy, yes – but not stressful. Other parts of life are fairly stressful from time to time, depending on the day, but I do think it’s all manageable, especially because working out daily keeps my stress levels under control.

    Liked by 2 people

    • ernie, I hadn’t considered traffic violations when I asked the question but now that you mention it I bet a know a few people who are in trouble with the law. 🚗

      Oh yours is a wonderful story of helping someone who needed to be rescued. At that age you’d know how to be helpful but not necessarily what was wrong. If an ambulance was called it was a big deal. Well done, young ernie.

      You do seem to handle your stress well. I agree that there is a difference between being busy and being stressed. Interesting how you feel working out daily helps you stay calm. I know many people say that.

      Liked by 1 person

  13. Wow, that kid! So irritated that her parents allowed her to become lost. Find Me is the new Help.

    I knew a lot of kids in church choirs who were discipline problems in school. Several spent time in juvie, and I’m willing to bet that at least a few are in prison right now. If only religion truly meant goodness and mercy. People need to read their history.

    That stress test equates stress with work, I think. I’m retired, but I still have other stresses (like a retired husband at home!) not measured by the test’s metrics. Or is this test saying, “Do you really? Think about it.” Hmmmmm.

    Liked by 2 people

    • nance, about once a year some kid gets stuck/lost down in the ravine. Of all the ones I’ve been aware of this little girl handled it the best. She was clear in her demand, persistent. Successful.

      You make a good point about kids in church choirs and the connection to discipline problems. I know that when I sang in the Cherub Choir, many of my fellow cherubs weren’t all that angelic.

      I agree that the stress test is more in the context of work, but I’m a sucker for online tests. I understand and relate to the retired husband at home angle of your stress. It’s an adjustment. 🙄

      Liked by 1 person

  15. Nope, no one currently in legal troubles comes to mind but of the couple I have known to have skirted the lawn they were far from choirboys.
    Neither have I been nor do I recall having been rescued, not even by a homeless dog.
    My stress score has me stressed out. I scored a 19 and frankly, I thought I was much calmer than that! But at least I can say it is all your fault!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Micheal, interesting observation about people you’ve known in real life who got in trouble with the law, or behaved unethically, weren’t choirboys. I can say the same thing now that I think about it.

      Yes, by all means blame your stress level on me because we both know that makes so much sense. I think 19 sounds like a good score, btw— but what do I know? 🙄

      Liked by 2 people

  16. I was rescued from drowning when I was three. My brother called out on my behalf. Thank heavens! I remember it like it was yesterday.

    Boy, I would love to hear a real funny conversation. I need to hang out with kids more. There are some great sitcoms to make me laugh. The conversations may not be real but they sure are funny.

    My stress score is 59. I stress easy and don’t manage it well. With a husband in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, I am constantly in a simmering state. Kind of like being at work. Friends, wine, walking and gardening make a huge difference.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Jenn, oh my goodness. THAT is a memory. I cannot imagine it.

      I agree that kids can be entertaining to the nth degree. I loved this little girl, cool, calm, & collected, but LOUD. Nothing is going to stop that kid going forward.

      Under the circumstances your simmering level of stress seems about right. I’m sorry about the changes in your life because of your husband’s Alzheimer’s. Your stress relievers are a good way to keep your sanity. Take care.

      Liked by 2 people

  17. I learned early in life that being a member of church doesn’t mean that person is honest and above reproach. I had an uncle who was a minister and was a first rate scammer and cheat.

    I loved your story of the child in the ravine. Loved her sureness that her dad would come to her rescue and her dad’s sense of humor in doing so.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Jean, I know you’re right about how there isn’t a consistent correlation between going to church and being a good person. No matter how much super religious people want you to believe that.

      The little girl in the ravine made my day. Many kids go down there, a few get lost and start to panic, but our Miss Katelyn wasn’t going to give in to despair. That is what I call spunk.

      Liked by 1 person

  18. At the moment, my stress level is low–I just finished Pilates class!

    I don’t have a story that matches the one about Katelyn, but her story reminded me of two little boys who walked through the living room where their parents were sitting with hands over their eyes, thinking they were invisible.

    Thanks for the lightheartedness here, Ally! 😀

    Liked by 2 people

    • Marian, I’ve never done Pilates but know it’s popular. And if it lowers stress all the better.

      I’m laughing about the little boys who thought they were invisible. Sure, why not? Kids can be a hoot.

      Liked by 2 people

  19. I don’t currently know of anyone in trouble with the law. Yeah, “I sing/sang in the church choir” won’t hold up in court – and I say that as a church goer.

    I didn’t take the test, but my stress level should be pretty low. Retirement makes a big difference!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Linda, I couldn’t stop laughing after my friend came up with the church choir defense. She knew it was silly, but she was so sincere.

      I know you’re right that being retired reduces most people’s stress levels. I have met a few people who found it more stressful to be on their own all day, but not many. Most people I know walk away from the work world into a better lifestyle.

      Liked by 2 people

  20. If I had taken that test a year ago I would have been OFF the charts. Today, I was 35. After a Year of Shmita, I have learned a lot about resting and leaning into…not being productive.
    I have major stress flares and I get tired, but letting some things go, stepping down from my most stressful work position, therapy, the well-timed addition of medication for anxiety, and positive changes in some major life challenges have all come together to give me a 35. What a relief! I’ll take that score ❤

    Liked by 2 people

    • Elisabeth, congratulations on your score. I know how you feel: once you allow yourself to not be productive all the time, you lighten up and gain perspective. I think that is a brilliant way to understand yourself. I’m glad you found ways to cope with your stressors and move forward with a sense of gratitude and grace. Well done!

      Liked by 1 person

  21. I had an uncle in the slammer, in the States, no less; he got out because they “cleared out the immigrants”. Frankly, I have no idea if he’s still alive (he shouldn’t be).
    As for your phone conversation, how did your former neighbour take your response? Was she offended since I could feel the snark all the way up here… We all know church-going folk could *never* be guilty of anything wrong… ahem. Cough. Cough.

    I cannot remember ever having to be rescued. I loved the dad’s reaction – no panic about his little princess’ situation.

    I fall into the “somewhat stressed” category and am not surprised. Hard not to feel some when you are the sole person in charge of your household and still worry about your youngest.

    I have overheard funny conversations. Of course, none of them are coming to me now…

    Liked by 2 people

    • Dale, I suspect all of us have at least one relative who has done a few things frowned upon by the law.

      My friend on the phone burst out laughing. She could see the absurdity in what she said. I wouldn’t be friends with someone who got offended by snark. As if.

      Considering how over the years some parents have overreacted to their kids lost in the ravine, I applaud this man. He was truly entertained by it all, just part of being a dad.

      Your reasons for feeling stressed ring true with me. I get your point and hope you’re able to see your way through whatever happens. 🙂

      Liked by 2 people

      • You might be right. And some never get caught 😉

        Good. I couldn’t see you as being friends with someone who was offended by snark. Puh-leeze.

        Tell me about it. Some parents are overkill big time! He done did good 😉

        Yeah. For example: I think of all that needs to be fixed and why oh why could I not be dating or friends with handy people who could help me instead of it costing me an arm and a leg because I have lots of talents but not the ones needed for these projects… and so on and so on…

        Liked by 2 people

  22. No. No. and No. I didn’t take the test, but my only stress right now is the weather – we had a COLD (as in wearing my winter jacket and gloves when I walked) and cloudy holiday weekend, and more of the same, with rain, forecast ALL week, and I bought all these plants and wanted to garden…so for now they are living in the garage and they do not look happy. We need sunshine!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Joni, I understand your situation and sympathize. Once it gets warm enough to plant, then the weather turns cold again, you’re stuck waiting, hoping your precious little plants can tough it out in the garage. Been there. It’s rainy cold here today, not quite like yours, but the temperature has put the kibosh on my garden plans.

      Liked by 2 people

  23. Congrats on getting your to do list covered before Memorial Day! My stress level was 50, somewhat stressed, which given the fact that I am now primary caregiver for my 99 year old mother-in-law and I have no transcription income on a regular basis makes total sense. Fortunately I don’t know anyone in trouble with the law at the moment. I doubt singing in the choir is actually proof of innocence. Happy Tuesday!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Janet, in truth I’m shocked that I got these spring maintenance chores done as smoothly as I did. Still waiting for the other shoe to drop.

      Being the primary caregiver can take it out of you. It’s good of you to take on the task. I hope you’re taking some time for yourself every so often.

      I, too, feel that singing in the church choir isn’t going to hold up in a court of law, but we got a good kick laughing about it. Happy Tuesday right back at you!

      Liked by 2 people

  24. I’ve heard the choir defense and rolled my eyes. Next to that comes the comment that the person doesn’t watch the news or “doesn’t do politics” and yet they have extremely strong views on it. Best not to even talk to them about it. If I don’t get into the discussion, my stress level is just fine.

    Liked by 2 people

  25. I am “somewhat stressed.” As usual, my issues didn’t exactly fit the test parameters, though. I mean, where does one score pet health issues and personal orthopedic issues? Or one’s kids? It seems like it was designed for a white male executive. Just like everything else in this country. I’ve known several people who turned out to be embezzlers and con men. And yes, also all white men. Only one got jail time. As for rescue, LOL. Like most Gen Xers, I always knew I’d have to rescue myself. And I did. But Miss Katelyn is hilarious. Reminds me of my own demanding tyrant when he was little.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Autumn, you could be right that the test is meant to gage the stress levels of white male executives, yet there it was in front of me NEEDING to be taken. You know how I am about quizzes.

      I knew an embezzler, a woman who worked for me, so that was exciting. I’ve known a few men who managed to suppress some of their former illegal activities then go on to fabulous careers— being dynamic free thinkers and all. 🙄

      I couldn’t stop smiling about Miss Katelyn who didn’t succumb to despair instead making herself known to all.

      Liked by 2 people

  26. Kids! Hilarious how they start a spontaneous game of hide and seek without telling anyone else the game is on. Happens around here all the time.

    Nice work on getting all the systems ready to go for summer! You’re killing it. Although I happen to think your “not stressed” result probably comes more from your ability to see things in perspective which you demonstrate regularly in your posts. Like the case of Martha… 🙂

    Liked by 2 people

    • Wynne, I had to smile about Miss Katelyn who may have a career as an opera singer, considering her ability to project her voice.

      I have to admit that I am being a bit prideful about getting the spring maintenance scheduled and done. It’s usually more of a headache.

      I’m flattered by your assessment that I keep things in perspective. Ten years ago I wasn’t so centered, but now seem to take things more in stride. I don’t know when the switch flipped, but it has.

      Liked by 2 people

  28. I went to a memorial service recently and ran into people I hadn’t seen since Junior High! I mentioned one classmate I thought was such a lovely lad and got some shocked looks. Turns out the guy was in prison for bribery, abuse of a mail order bride – all kinds of things I could have never imagined him doing fifty years ago! I didn’t sing in the choir with him but he helped me with my math homework! Coincidentally a couple of weeks I got lost in the Santa Cruz forests and was found by a friendly ranger. I didn’t call out for help, just kind of ran into him. I was lucky!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Jan, the kid you knew from high school is long gone. Don’t you wonder what happened in his life that was the catalyst for the crimes he committed? It’s one thing to make mistakes, but a much bigger thing to end up in prison. Yikes!

      I’m glad the friendly ranger found you. Were you scared about being lost? I would be, but then I’m rarely in forests so they all seem confusing to me.

      Liked by 2 people

      • I’d lost touch with most of the people I grew up with so I can’t really say. He was from one of the town’s prominent families and many of them were accused of taking advantage of their position and wealth. The whole family was in decline. But like your friend I was clueless.

        Liked by 2 people

        • How interesting and totally believable. I’ve know some rich kids who got away with anything because their family name protected them. Then when the family name means nothing, who are they then?

          Liked by 1 person

  29. I don’t think I know anyone in current legal trouble but people aren’t always honest, ya know? From what I read in the news, people in churches including ministers and (I’m sure) choir members are often caught doing nefarious things. I guess God will forgive them for whatever they do, so why not? (eye roll) I will be off to take the stress test and can predict that I’ll be higher than you!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Margaret, you make a great point about dishonest people who might be in trouble with the law, but how would you know? I found out about Martha because of local news reporting.

      Yes, many a churchgoer in good standing has been caught doing illegal things. Your point about God’s forgiveness sounds exactly like something my mother, a school teacher, would have said. Not to be cynical, of course. 🤨

      Liked by 1 person

  30. I scored a 16, but I don’t work or have kids in school anymore, so I didn’t think I’d score high. Not having any current health concerns is the biggest boost for me to be stress free.

    People are going to believe what they want to believe. I keep seeing TikToks claiming that Prince made a secret voice recording about the evils of P Diddy and that it was played during the trial yesterday. I’m like, how come this isn’t on the news? I googled it, and it’s completely bogus. But, the comment section of those TikToks are all about how everyone just knew Prince was aware of Diddy’s crimes against humanity and Diddy put out a hit on Prince and that’s why he’s dead!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Bijoux, I agree about how no health concerns = less stress. And if I may opine here for a moment, it’s not so much the stress of handling the health issue, it’s the anxiety that goes with health insurance— and the games they play with you.

      SAY WHAT? This is the first I’m hearing of the alleged Prince/P Diddy connection which sounds insane no matter how you look at it. Why do crazy ideas like this one call to some people? I’m just too centered in reality.

      Liked by 2 people

  32. I scored a 33 on the stress test today, which is great! I’m in a good stretch right now, which is nice, and I’m very grateful. The Find Me girl sounds like she’s got spunk! That was a cute story. Your neighborhood ravine sounds like an interesting feature! I’ve never needed to be rescued, thank goodness. I live in a town small enough that I do know people who’ve gone to jail, or who didn’t, even though they should’ve. I know of one who was a choir singer.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Michelle, good score on the test that obviously pleases you. You’re right about being grateful for good stretches. The ravine sounds more dangerous than it is. You don’t want to fall into it, but when kids go down to play in it they sometimes get turned around down there and are lost. Except they aren’t really.

      I grew up in a small town so I can remember some interesting characters that ended up in jail— or on home detention. One was my middle school principal who by day herded us kids, by night was a bookie with phone lines in his basement. Thinking back on it I can’t help but laugh.

      Liked by 2 people

  33. I have a friend in prison who was released for a scant few weeks, broke his damn parole and is back to serve his full sentence of 10 years…because apparently getting out in 6 was too early 🙄

    Liked by 2 people

  35. I definitely know someone who is always in trouble with the law, but am too polite to say who (family) and no, they were never in the choir or even stepped foot inside a church. And I love love the story about the young girl and her dad, that made me smile.

    Now, I need to go take that stress test, so if you’ll excuse me.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Alexandra, some people are constantly in trouble with the law, aren’t they? I hadn’t thought about that when I asked the question. I’m smiling about how your miscreant is not a churchgoer.

      Yes, Miss Katelynn and her dad were a delight to overhear. That little girl is a force to be reckoned with. She’s a strong one with a good-natured father.

      Liked by 1 person

  36. You little underachiever. Why can’t you be stressed out like the rest of us? 🤣 I didn’t take the test, but I’m guessing I’m somewhere in the middle.

    Going to church, whether one sings in the choir or not, doesn’t make us religious, especially when we can’t treat others with compassion and basic human decency. I’ll toss another log on the fire—hugging a flag doesn’t make someone patriotic, especially if they only follow the Constitution when it serves their purposes.

    Liked by 3 people

    • Pete, I know, I know. I should try harder to be stressed out but somehow I am not. It’s baffling but also eye-opening.

      Yes, you’re right about how going to church doesn’t guarantee you’re a compassionate person a la Jesus. And I also agree that hugging a flag isn’t what patriotism is about. In fact I’ll go so far as to say that selling Bibles while planning a military parade for your birthday is the sort of behavior that could lead to my stress escalating. If I let it.

      Liked by 3 people

  37. Even before I took the test, I knew what the result would be. According to the test, I am very stressed. I fully expected my result to be extremely stressed, so I guess my result is a good thing?

    Liked by 2 people

    • Gigi, I know why you’re very stressed and I think I’d be too. I am laughing about your realization that at least you aren’t extremely stressed. We take our victories where we find them.

      Liked by 2 people

  38. Do you know anyone who is currently in trouble with the law? Is or was that person part of a church choir? – Not currently, and to my knowledge, they weren’t part of the church choir when they were.

    When I was 10 or 11, a friend and I heeded to be rescued. Both of our older brothers came to our rescue. Mine sang in the choir (in case that matters).

    I’ve been visiting my brother, which was a solid week of funny conversations.

    I took the test, and I scored a 5. I think that’s due to being retired and having only self-imposed deadlines which I never hold myself to unless absolutely necessary.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Dan, I’m finding that the correlation between being in trouble with the law and singing in a church choir might not be a lock. Who knew! 😉

      Love that your choir singing brother rescued when you needed it. I bet your week with your brothers was funny. Y’all seem like you have a good sense of humor.

      Your assessment of why you are a 5 makes sense. I’m finding that the more lenient I am with myself about self-imposed anything the more relaxed I’m becoming. I’ll strive to hit five.

      Liked by 2 people

  39. I am a bonafide Clamity Jane. Just last week I crashed my bike while riding in the Black Forest. Malcolm was ahead coasting downhill while I was screaming, come back, I crashed. I laid on the road, checking for broken bones as he disappeared around a curve, so I rescued myself. As for stress – just the situational kind, like running through an airport when you are about to miss your connection. True story.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Suzanne, is it wrong that I’m laughing out loud about your bike crash? I mean, of all the places, why there?!! I’m glad you rescued yourself from your predicament and that you weren’t hurt— not even your pride.

      Yes, I’ve run through airports [Hartsfield-Jackson for instance] and made my flight. You’re right it is situational stress.

      Liked by 1 person

      • It’s okay to laugh. I did, when I realized I wasn’t dead or even broken. I should have been. This was my first time on an E-bike, so the Black Forest probably wasn’t the best choice to learn. I was going downhill at a snail’s pace, riding my brakes, when all of a sudden, for no good reason, I squeezed too hard on the left-hand brake. Splat!

        We made the flight. I think the crew thought we were both going to stroke out. That’s one way to get attention.

        Liked by 2 people

  40. Hey, I love when you include links to these little tests. It’s always enlightening to me. I scored a 38, though that’s higher than I actually thought it would be. I also love that you asked if we know someone in trouble with the law currently AND if said troublemaker had been in the church choir. LOL!!!

    Liked by 1 person

    • Rhonda, I’m a sucker for online tests. I know I should just scroll on by but my curiosity gets the better of me, so I take them. Then tell everyone my score. It’s been interesting to find out the scores, but more interesting to find out if the score makes sense to the person.

      As for the connection between being in trouble with the law and being in the church choir there doesn’t seem to be a solid one, but I had to ask.

      Liked by 2 people

  42. I do love that story about the kid in the ravine 🙂

    Thankfully I do not know anyone who is currently in trouble with the law. I also don’t know anyone who sings in a church choir. I will say, however, that given the propensity of some people to claim they are Christians (and thus holier than thou) and yet they engage in unchristian-like activities, I’m less likely to think better of someone who sings in a church choir than someone who does not. That is, I will reserve my doubts.

    Unfortunately, there have been a couple of times in my life when I needed rescuing. The most traumatic was when my right leg got caught in the shaft of a freight elevator. Fortunately, I had a lot of help that day. Another time, I and my brother’s girlfriend du jour were floating on inner tubes down a river in Arizona. A rope was tethered to our tubes for safety but it broke when we got entangled in some debris. We separated. I managed to get myself over to some overhanging tree branches, hoping to grab one and work my way to L, but the river was too fast. I flipped over. While I was upside down, I saw my Doritos and eyeglasses pass before my eyes. I managed to right myself, grab a branch, and find some footing. Lynne was ahead of me, still on her tube and holding onto mine. Well, I actually wasn’t able to call for help because I was underwater for most of the event, but I remember L being scared. She was afraid that I’d drown. I don’t remember being scared but I do remember wishing I hadn’t lost the Doritos.

    I have not overheard any conversations as funny as the one you describe. I’m not a good eavesdropper; even with my hearing aids, I miss a lot of what people are saying if they are not talking directly to me.

    I scored 35/100 so I’m a bit more stressed than you but less stressed than most others. Some of the questions were difficult to answer because I no longer work outside my home. For those, I decided to consider my knitting, writing and other craft work as well as my efforts to bug my representatives as work. What stood out for me in answering these questions is realizing that while I might feel like I have too many things to do, I do have plenty of time in which to do them.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Marie, I know what you mean about how some Christians who are less than Christian give all Christians a bad name. It’s a conundrum to be sure.

      Your story of your inner tube mishap is a classic. I’m sorry it happened and understand how scary it was, but the loss of your Doritos— horrifying! 😉

      I don’t overhear many conversations. The thing is the acoustics of this natural ravine with trees around it amplify the darnedest conversations.

      Good approach to answering the questions. I did something similar figuring that keeping the house in decent shape was my work along with blogging. Your takeaway from the test resonates with me. We are busy buy not stressed to get things done.

      Liked by 2 people

  43. I scored a 56 which frankly surprised me. “Somewhat” isn’t the word I would describe for me and stressed. I feel more like a “very stressed” so I guess this tells me I’m doing relatively well.

    Liked by 2 people

      • It surely is. Upon further reflection my “very stressed” impression is from my younger days — 10 to 20 years ago my score would definitely have been higher. Somehow I missed the fact that I’ve made this much progress! Maybe in 10 more years I’ll be in the low stress category like so many of the commenters here. 🙂

        Liked by 2 people

  44. You feel like an underachiever–Haha! I’m glad that dad laughed rather than being all, “I’m so sorry. My goodness. How did this happen? I’m so sorry I let this happen to you,” since that little girl sounds like she could be a spoiled princess. Maybe she needed this bit of humility. It would be interesting to see if there’s a study showing what percentage of people in church choirs have committed crimes.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Ilsa Rey, yes I am gladly an underachiever in this situation. Less stressed me is a happier me. About once a summer some kid gets lost down in the ravine. No one has ever been hurt, at least physically which is encouraging. I agree I’d enjoy knowing how many church choir members have been convicted of crimes— and even more interesting would be knowing the recidivism rate for them. 😜

      Liked by 2 people

  45. My score is 28, but I think my relaxed attitude is related to my age and situation. I could very easily be a stressed person under other circumstances.

    I used to belong to a church choir. Sadly, I can’t sing very well anymore. They were an ordinary bunch of people, no criminals that I know of.

    If I cried out for help, would someone help me? I’m not too confident. Last week we were eating at a seafood restaurant. A woman sitting at a table with 7 or 8 other women was choking, and no one at her table did anything. I didn’t see it, but my daughter, who is always very alert and helpful, jumped up and sprinted across the room. She shouted at the waitresses behind the bar, asking if any of them knew the Heimlich Maneuver. One did, and she saved the woman. My daughter said it was her understanding that every restaurant should have someone who could do it.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Nicki, good point about how your situation, my situation too, impacts how stressed we are. A younger version of me would be more stressed in today’s world.

      What a rescue story! I’m glad your daughter saw the woman choking and did something about it. I didn’t know that restaurants were to have someone on staff who could do the Heimlich maneuver but it makes sense. That poor woman, though. What an ordeal.

      Liked by 1 person

  46. I am minimally stressed (33/100), and I attribute that to being a loner homebody, so I’m rarely interacting with those who are in distress or committing crimes. 🙂 Can’t remember the last time I had to be rescued. Decades? A boring life is under-rated, if you ask me.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Rita, as a fellow loner homebody I totally understand why you’re minimally stressed. I attribute my mellowness to not being around people. Boring life = happy life, if’n you ask me.

      Liked by 1 person

  47. I can’t think of anyone currently in trouble with the law, but I once wrote a blog about three embezzlers I’d had a connection with. None of them sang in church choirs, but if they had, I assure you no one would have suspected them of their criminal activity.

    I’ve never seriously called out to be rescued, but as a kid pretended once to be drowning and someone did jump in the water to “save” me. I was terminally embarrassed 😳!

    I got a score of 25 on the quiz, which I gathered from the question was geared toward a younger audience than me (many work-related questions). I do some volunteering, but mostly don’t let it stress me (not 100% successful).

    Liked by 2 people

    • Eilene, I worked with an embezzler, too. She was no saint to begin with, so the idea of a church choir wasn’t considered. Your embezzlers sound more sneaky.

      Oh what a kid thing to do! I’m smiling.

      Our scores on the test are close. I know what you mean about the test questions. I decided to answer the questions as if maintaining the house and writing this blog were my work. If nothing else thinking about how stressed I am got me thinking about what I could do to be less stressed going forward.

      Liked by 2 people

  49. Ally, I do not know anyone currently in trouble with the law, but hey – do you really know your friends/neighbors?

    I never had to call someone to rescue me that I can recall, but I did get lost in the woods at Crosswinds Marsh for hours and hours and asked hikers for directions – each said “you’re pointed in the wrong direction” and it was a sickening hot August day and I was VERY grateful for a woman walking her dog who offered to walk back to the main entrance with me.

    Nope, no funny conversations lately, but is the word “slippers” no longer in vogue? I was at the mall today and asked two people for slippers and they were clueless. The third said “you mean ‘house shoes’?” Well, um – I guess that’s what I mean going forward.
    I took the stress test and got “37-63 -somewhat stressed” and yes it jives with how I feel. I live next to a person who has a Bijon Frise that whines and cries from the time she leaves for work until she returns home. I get a break every Friday when she takes it to work with her. It’s warmer weather now so the windows are open and the dog whines under the kitchen window where I am most of the day. It’s about 12 years old and I hope it is not one of those dogs that lives for 20+ years as surely, I’ll be in the nuthouse by then.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Linda, you said it! I agree that people in trouble with the law could be around us and we’d never know.

      I’m glad the woman with her dog walked you back to the entrance. You must have been thankful but also what a thing to happen!

      My dad back in the ’70s referred to slippers as house shoes, but I haven’t heard that phrase since then. I wear and buy slippers.

      I get why that dog is whining and why it could drive you over the deep end. I’ve never met a Bichon Frise in person so I’ve no idea how long they live. This particular one may die of heartbreak considering how it has been treated. 🤨

      Liked by 2 people

      • At the law firm I worked with a secretary who worked for the administrative partner. One of her duties was to do personal banking for her boss. Once, she cashed the check somewhere else and went to the casino and blew it all. Needless to say she was fired – what was she thinking?

        I was happy someone led me back as I had been lost for hours in the deep woods. Not fun. The trail markers were not great and I didn’t have a trail map.

        I don’t know how long these dogs live, but this one has overstayed its welcome here on Earth IMHO. Today, even with the windows closed, between its incessant whining and a tree cutter or someone using a loud machine, I thought I’d lose my mind. This is compounded by little ants running to and fro – I’ve killed umpteen of them, the last few while I was typing.

        Liked by 2 people

        • What was that secretary thinking, indeed! Sounds insane on the surface of it, but maybe a gambling addiction?

          I find the noise that the noise from tree trimmers and professional lawn mowers sent me round the bend. Add a yapping dog and yowsa! At least the ants are quiet. 😜

          Liked by 2 people

          • That secretary gave everyone something to talk about around the water cooler the next day, I’ll tell you that. We all figured it was a gambling addiction and she was not young by the way. She was a seasoned legal secretary, probably in her mid-to-late 60s.

            The person in the corner house, two doors down, has a lot and a half and every Sunday, weather permitting, he makes that his day, the mower, then the weed whipper. Three or four hours of nonstop noise and in this kind of weather, with all the rain, the grass is long and takes longer than usual. The dog sends me round the bend on a daily basis. Fridays she takes it to work – TGIF.

            Liked by 1 person

  50. Hi Ally – my score was a 33 – but I think it would have been in the 60s or 70s if I took this in the fall. And good for you for having a 24 –
    and funny you should mention the church choir lady – because it reminded me of this choir singer I worked with in 93 – and she ended up having an affair.
    I heard that Ghandi said, “I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ”
    And that is how I feel sometimes – some of the American Christians I encounter – and lukewarm about their faith (or cold ) and especially some of the ones that are deacons…. or in the choir….

    Liked by 2 people

    • Yvette, oddly enough when I was in high school I sang in the church choir and our choir director had an affair with a church deacon. It was THE scandal as you can imagine. She was let go and we got a new less outgoing [shall we say?] choir director. I’d forgotten all about that.

      The Ghandi quote is apt. I grew up going to church every Sunday, being in the choir, but I also saw a lot of hypocrisy going on then. Even more so now. I get what you’re saying.

      Liked by 2 people

      • wow – that sounds like a scandal – and off how it connected to my comment. Oh and I heard that Ghandi might not have said that exact quote – but he did notice the discrepancy between talk (faith professed or in a role) and walk (not having integrity). Oh and hope your Memorial Day is going well. I am going through attic boxes this weekend and it has been a lot of work – so my stress number might be going up – hahah

        Liked by 1 person

        • Regardless of the actual words Ghandi used, he was onto something intrinsic in human nature. Some people talk/walk like their words and actions jive while others pretend. Same as it ever was.

          Best of luck with the attic boxes. I’ve know in my experience it was great when all was organized and dispatched elsewhere, BUT getting to that point was stressful.

          Liked by 2 people

  51. I don’t know anyone in trouble with the law, don’t remember asking to be rescued, and haven’t heard any funny conversations, but there certainly are enough of those online. I’m middle of the road stressed, and that has a lot to do with the age bracket I’m in along with other family members and friends. Although, ‘if ever’ my “landscape beds and the lawn sprinkler system and the gutters and the windows and the AC system have been mulched or activated or cleared or cleaned or serviced” by someone besides myself, I think my number would be lower. 🙂 Happy long weekend with a cleared to-do-list.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Judy, thanks for answering the [always optional] questions. I’d say middle of the road stress is a good place to be, many people seem to be over the top when it comes to stress. You’re right that having the spring maintenance done by other people, once they show up, is contributing to my lower stress number. You do all these chores yourself? I am impressed by your gumption and stamina.

      Liked by 2 people

        • We have a similar situation here. The older tradesmen are a rare treasure and the younger guys don’t want to do the work. Our salvation is that this is a big city [2 million] and some reputable companies still do the work IF you can find them [word of mouth] and IF you can get on their client list [referral or good credit score] and IF you’re willing to pay a lot of money [sigh].

          Liked by 2 people

  52. Ha, yes, exactly. As if being associated with religion in any way corresponded with lawfulness.
    I’d say my stress level is moderate right now, but that’s just my own personal instinct about myself, not the official rating of an online test, so I could be way off. 😉

    Liked by 2 people

    • The Travel Architect, religion is fine and dandy if’n that’s your thing but it is not a legal defense. My friend knew this but somehow the words spilled out. And we laughed.

      I’m glad your stress level is moderate. If nothing else the test, taken or not, presents the question which we answer in our own ways. 😁

      Liked by 2 people

  53. I can’t recall my score, but it was in the Very Stressed category. Unfortunately, I can concur that this is the case – indeed, I have a chat booked with my doctor where I aim to persuade them to test my cortisol levels (and to have a conversation about dealing with it). Thing is I know why it’s likely to be elevated – and it is perfectly reasonable for it to be so – but there’s little I can do about the practicalities of it atm.

    The only person I know who got taken to court, got into trouble because he drinks too much. While he still drinks too much, he’s learned to keep out of trouble.

    What a daft thing for your friend to say. I’ve come across that type of thinking before when I still attended a Catholic church (many decades ago now). I know no-one who’s actively religious any more.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Deb, if your score makes sense to you then the test has done its job. I’ve never had my cortisol level tested but I can understand how knowing that number could be helpful, put your practicalities into a range so to speak.

      I like your succinct assessment of the person who you know who got in trouble with the law: in essence carry on but don’t get caught.

      My friend said what she said spontaneously but after a moment and my sarcastic comeback realized how silly it sounded. We got a good laugh out of it. I only know a few people who are members of organized religion anymore. I cannot tell if it does them good or hinders them. 🤷‍♀️

      Liked by 2 people

      • I understand that people can gain comfort from organised religion, although that feeling may originate from being part of a tribe/community, rather than purely the religious aspect. As you say, it isn’t always clear whether the good outweighs the limitations. It seems to me that religious communities seem to require blind adherence more than communities created out of some other bond, but I cannot pretend there isn’t significant bias on my part.

        Liked by 1 person

        • I agree that being part of a tribe plays into being a member of a religion. If it is important to you to have the external validation that comes from being known as a member, then you’ll go all out to be part of it. If tribal affiliations are of less value to you then joining a religion may seem unnecessary. Not a bad thing, but just a thing you could do.

          Liked by 2 people

  54. I wasn’t in church choir, and I don’t know anyone currently in trouble with the law. I mean, that I know of. Who can say, really? People contain multitudes. *looks suspiciously at everyone*
    The thought of taking that test makes me stressed! In general, I’m not really stressed though. Again, that I know of – maybe the test would surprise me!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Nicole, the church choir defense is a funny one. I’ve yet to find anyone who thinks it’d hold up in a court of law. Other than my friend. Good point about what do we really know about other people and their relationship with the law? 🙄

      I took the test and thought I’d score higher than I did. Knowing my results reduced my stress so there’s that.

      Liked by 1 person

  55. Pingback: How stressed am I now? – Fedora Pancakes

  56. I believe there is a correlation between church choir members and honesty. Right? 😅
    I’m laughing. I mean, her explanation was laughable!

    I overhear funny conversations all the time; people be funny!

    Ally, I didn’t read all the above comments, but I’m gonna go on a limb and say I’m the least stressed person you know. I got a nine. NINE!
    Had I taken this test a few weeks ago, it would have been much higher, but not today.

    Happy news to have all your Spring Household chores under control so early. Bravo.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Suz, once my friend said what she did about the church choir defense she realized it was crazy talk. We got laughing of course.

      I agree that people be funny. Especially if you just let them babble on, waiting for the humor.

      9 is an impressively low stress number. I take your point about how a few weeks can change your stress levels. I’m happy to be ahead of the spring maintenance curve, for once. Yay!

      Liked by 2 people

    • Neil, thank you! I admit I’m in shock. No cancellations + no one didn’t show up when scheduled. They had all their supplies, did what they were here for in a reasonable amount of time, AND were pleasant. I just had to crow about it. You understand.

      Liked by 2 people

  58. Oh, Ally! What a post. Umm…yes. In response to your first question. Yes and yes and yes. I know three people from the same congregation who were the backbone of a church choir (and organist, to boot) who were/are in trouble. I probably shouldn’t say more…but can’t resist sharing that they’re Buckeyes. Oy! 😜

    Liked by 2 people

  59. I would love to hear a funny conversation! The news stories have enraged me so much I could use a laugh!
    I find it interesting that anyone could think that church choir membership guarantees the person won’t do anything wrong. I was in a church choir and flagrantly did wrong things. I’m not proud of the fact, but I did them.

    Liked by 2 people

    • L. Marie, I know you’re right that being part of a church choir doesn’t guarantee you won’t break the law. Once my friend realized how absurd she sounded, she started laughing.

      Good point about how a funny conversation is worth its weight in gold right now, the news is so defeating.

      Liked by 2 people

  60. Love, love, loved that test. Came in @ 13. (the truth is, I hit the wall (stress) back in the late 1980’s/ 100% self inflicted and learned some very valuable personal lessons..including the ability to say No, As a former people pleaser, that was huge. I could tell you stories. 🙂 At the time it was very painful, but just that cat who sat on a hot stove..won’t do it again…I will do everything in my power to never find myself under that kind of pressure again, @ least due to my own choices. I do know someone who is currently in trouble with the law, and would be very surprised if he doesn’t do @ least 10 years. Wasn’t in the church choir, but was pretty active in church.

    Liked by 2 people

    • DM, what an interesting observation about who you were then, who you are now, and how it came to be that you are less stressed now. I know being a people pleaser is a direct train to stress, so I get it.

      Also interesting about the person in trouble with the law. Don’t wish anything bad for them but it if you do the crime… 🤷‍♀️

      Liked by 2 people

  62. Hi Ally, I have not heard this term “old-timey friends” in awhile. In the little bit of wisdom I may have gleaned over the decades, I do find many people have changed over the years – some in a good direction – others not. The ‘kid’ story made me smile. This little girl will be all right in life despite the challenges thrown at her (at least I hope so.)

    Re: your questions – constantly funny conversations from children and their ‘take’ on the world makes ‘the world go round’ for me.

    Re: stress – we possibly have learned more tools to help us manage stress – at least for the moment.

    Always fun and interesting to see where your mind and your life is at these days, Ally.💕 Erica

    Liked by 2 people

    • Erica/Erika, I’m with you. I, too, have found that people change over the years. I know I have, for the better I believe. Agree about our Miss Katelyn. She has spunk.

      I can imagine funny conversations with your grandkids. You’re right that kids’ takes on the world are often spot on in a very honest + humorous way.

      Thanks for stopping by to read and comment. I show up to the blog consistently but what is on my mind is random. Somehow this approach keeps me stress-free & wordy. 🤓

      Liked by 2 people

  63. Do you know anyone who is currently in trouble with the law? Is or was that person part of a church choir?

    I got a speeding ticket once. I was rocking out to Stone Temple Pilots’ “Unglued” when the cop pulled me over. Definitely not church music.

    Have you ever called out for someone to rescue you? If so, did someone rescue you?

    I got trapped in a well once when I was a baby. Couldn’t talk yet, but I did cry for help. Eventually, I was rescued. The story made national news.

    Had or overheard any funny conversations lately?

    I had a great exchange with another blogger about gypsy curses and rock ‘n roll. I guess you had to be there, but trust me, it was hilarious.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Mark, while your story of being on the wrong side of the law is touching, it’s not quite on point. But thanks for sharing.

      Trapped in a well as a baby? Well, that’s unexpected and I’d say scary.

      Any conversation about gypsy curses is by definition a funny conversation. How could it not be? And now Cher’s ‘Gypsies, Tramps, and Thieves’ is playing in my mind so thanks for the ear worm.

      Liked by 2 people

  64. Congratulations on getting your annual spring maintenance done in a timely fashion before Memorial Day! I admire you for that. I scored 37-63 — Somewhat stressed on the test. I guess that’s par for the course.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Barbara, thank you. I know in the big picture of life it’s no big deal, but it does feel good to have spring maintenance finished so soon. Your stress score is reasonable. There’s no right or wrong, just what is.

      Liked by 2 people

  65. Based on this test, I got 16, so very unstressed. I am feeling pretty chill.

    People are people, no matter how religious or not religious they are, and a certain percentage of them are going to be trouble. I don’t think being part of a church exempts one from a life of crime. But it is always disconcerting to hear of someone that you thought you really knew doing something horrible.

    Liked by 2 people

    • J, chill it good. ‘Tis my goal in life but somehow things get in my way. Go figure!

      I agree with you. Just because you’re part of organized religion doesn’t mean you won’t commit a crime. You’re right it is disconcerting to find out someone you knew way back when has done something legally dubious. Still that’s how life works, people be people.

      Liked by 1 person

  66. Great post and wonderful questions, Ally! Let’s say, church people and choir members are human. I was a member of a once 7,000 members and at it’s peak, 120+ choir members. I didn’t hear anyone going to jail but am not surprised if someone is changed.

    Your kid’s story reminds me of Baby Jessica who fell into the 8″x22′ well. I’m glad the dad found the kid. Sometime when I asked my husband where he was in the house, he said, “Here!” I said, “Where is ‘here’?”

    My stress level is very low this weekend.

    Liked by 3 people

  67. As always, I enjoyed this little peek into your life, Ally. I do not know anyone currently in trouble with the law. Currently being the key word here. Looking back on the two lawbreakers I can think of off the top of my head, neither sang with the church choir. Maybe they should have. In truth, I’m afraid many church-goers…even choir members…are out breaking the law as we speak.

    Liked by 2 people

  68. You know I love the quizzes you find… and was not overly surprised to find out I’m somewhat stressed. I think it would have been higher but quite a few questions are about work/career, and I don’t work. Perhaps that is why you were also lower than expected on the quiz?

    As far as signing in the choir (or even going to church) meaning not doing anything illegal…. I had to laugh. No correlation at all. Wonder where we could find that data… might have to ask AI!

    Liked by 2 people

    • Pat, I stumble over the quizzes I share here. I don’t look for them, they find me. Great point about how not being in the workplace leads to a lower score.

      I’d enjoy reading any statistical analysis of church choir singers and their propensity to commit crimes. Is it higher or lower than the norm? OR does it make no difference!

      Liked by 2 people

      • I did a quick look at stats and they actually do exist…. not for choir singers but for church goers. Church attendees are less likely to have drug-related crimes, alcohol related crimes, or white collar related crimes. However, there are also choirs in prisons. 🙂

        Liked by 2 people

        • Thanks for finding this information. Interesting. I’d thought about how the existence of church choirs in prison suggests that singing your heart out for Jesus might not be the legal defense you might hope it would be. 🤔

          Liked by 1 person

  69. My stress level is low, and one of the reasons is because I WRITE. Writing lowers our stress temperature. Writing helps us deal with whatever we’re dealing with, and that includes writing non-fiction (particularly memoir or essays) and fiction. All of my creative writing students will attest to that. Probably most of our blogger friends, too. 🙂
    Fortunately, I don’t know anyone accused of/convicted of a crime. Although as more of us protest out of the belief that kindness, caring, and standing up for principles matter, that may change. As far as being rescued or rescuing – I LOVE your story of the father and daughter. My guess is that they’ll have a wonderful relationship for years to come. This may sound strange, but I feel that my guy rescued me from a tough time (when I first met him) and my life brightened from then on. I also find rescue via mediation and prayer. Whoa, I’m getting too personal here. ❤

    Liked by 2 people

    • Pam, excellent point about the positive correlation between writing and lower stress levels. You’re onto something.

      I’ve been wondering the same thing about who I may know who will be peacefully protesting and then get arrested. Seems like it could happen which is not an encouraging thought.

      I’m with you about the father and daughter. His laughter as he rescued her was delightful to hear. I know how you feel about your husband rescuing you, similar story here.

      Liked by 2 people

  70. In this day and age I’d label your former neighbor naive. COVID and recent politics are just two examples where true colors have bubbled to the surface bright and loud. You quickly discover you didn’t know family members and friends as well as you thought you did OR you realize someone has swayed them into a different set of ideals (ex. spouse). In some ways the brutal honesty we see in today’s behavior is refreshing; in others it makes you pause. As for breaking moral and legal codes, I’d say it happens every day, with people who show every indication of being “normal” on the surface.

    Liked by 2 people

    • Dave, well said. You’re right about the ways in which people have shown who they are during these last 5 years. So much hate and resentment for dubious reasons. I remain the same, wanting the best for all, as in healthy, safe, and at ease. Like that’s too much to expect from others?

      Yes about people who appear normal, maybe sing in the church choir, yet break the laws for personal gain. Sad, but true. Kind of tiring, also.

      Like

  71. I am a believer, but I am definitely not a believer in thinking that people who go to church are incapable of breaking the law! Even those who sing in the choir!!

    Fortunately, I haven’t had to ever yell for someone to rescue me.

    I read your other post about names of children and had to laugh out loud. Since comments were closed because I was late to the party I will tell you here. I have a great-neice named Aurora and another one named Charlotte. 😄 I love both names!!!! ( and I love exclamation ‼️😉)

    Liked by 2 people

Comments are closed.