Interview: Paula
Meet Paula....
Paula, also known as fpherj48, is one of the strongest, most balanced and inspirational women I know.
The Beat Goes ON -- Surviving a Heart Attack will give you an idea of Paula's amazing instincts, written in her one-of-a-kind style.
Oh, she also has a bizarre and wicked sense of humor as you may find in The Latest Rage and Other Insane FADS.
Please join me in this wonderful glimpse about Paula, by the fpher herself... and you won't be disappointed if you check out some of her writing as well:
The times I feel most relaxed are....
*** First thing, in the early morning hours, when I've just been awakened, by my Border Collie, "Taz," who pounces his 65 pounds on me and sticks his cold, wet nose in my ear. I feel "relaxed," but it might actually be a dazed stupor, until I have my "snap out of it" cup of coffee. Then, I like to use the beginning of a brand new day, to find a peaceful place to sit and simply, "BE," in the moment. There are no distractions and I block out any negative or stressful thoughts. Instead, I think about having a happy, productive day and decide what wonderful new project I'll begin.
I think I'm fairly relaxed just before I fall asleep for the night too.....but truthfully, it's probably utter exhaustion.
The times I feel saddest are..
**.When the news of the world begins to creep in and forces me to be aware of continual crime and corruption that tears away at the very fabric of our lives, day in and day out. I am especially saddened by the violence, unrest and hatred that pits man against himself, in our streets, at our borders and even in our schools. These egregious realities overwhelm me with sadness and a sense of dread, for all of us.
Something I'd like to teach others......
***I can only hope, that each day, through how I choose to live my life and share the wisdom of those lessons I have learned, I am able to teach others what really matters. I hope that I teach through example, the importance of tolerance and generosity. I would be pleased to know that I have taught even one person, how to persevere during difficulties, repair their broken pieces and go forward with strength and purpose. Most of all, I want to teach people to find happiness everywhere, to laugh and make others laugh. Daily life should never be a continual series of sad, serious dramas...It's such a simple thing...smile, say something funny and watch the magic happen........
My secret passion ...my dream job....
** I won't allow myself to disclose some things. My "secrets" belong to only me. Those who know me well, will know my passions, simply by paying attention....Don't you think we all expose our passions in the things we say and do? A "Dream job" is past tense. I guess at times, it was a dream come true......I mean I worked for it, and chose my career for all the reasons I felt were important to me at that time in my life.....so I feel fortunate that I was able to do something I enjoyed, that made a difference in the lives of others. Retired now for 10 years, we do not speak the word, JOB. What I do now, is at worst, perhaps a personal responsibility and at best, sheer pleasure. I will alway enjoy an occasional challenge, as well.
Most hated gift I ever gave someone ...
** Oh, dear Maria, "Hate," is a mighty heavy word. I'd have to say the gift of discipline I gave my 4 precious sons, was something they didn't exactly appreciate on a regular basis. LOL. They hated that I was always there, asking questions, keeping tabs, checking homework and knowing their friends. They hated most, the "eyes in the back of my head." My mantra was always the same..."I'm just doing my job guys and one day, you'll Thank me. And they have, simply by being amazing men, husbands and fathers. I have been duly redeemed and rewarded. Amen.
The gift I could have done without ..
**..I can tell you it wasn't a tangible gift, wrapped up with a bow....Rather, a gift in spirit. I'm convinced I was given the gift of uncanny perception and strong intuition. I sense and "feel," much more accurately than I see and hear. This may seem a wonderful blessing, but at times it can cause discomfort and disappointment. I easily pluck liars, manipulators and phonies from the herd.....and see to it that they're quite aware they cannot get past my radar. This might
be something I'd have been better off without. Isn't it said that "Ignorance is Bliss?"...
If you peeked in my junk drawer, you'd be surprised to find ...
**That I am possessed by a family curse of junk collecting. The thing is, we don't believe it's "junk." Actually I have worked diligently to break the cycle of this curse, or should I say, the "re-cycle?" Maybe not all parents from the depression era were SAVERS....as in, "Throw nothing away, because you never know when you may need it." My parents were big believers in this. Well, I have evolved, dear Mom and Dad in Heaven, forgive me for this. I now know there is NO reason to stockpile bread wrappers, empty boxes & manuals for items that no longer exist...nor dead plants....No, I can assure you, they are not going to come back to life. I have rid myself of all but one innocent junk drawer and have been working on closets, the basement, garage and the attic. One day, I shall be JUNK-less and free!!
My date from Hades ....
Hmmmm, it's been a very long time since I sat on the auction block. Let me think...a date from hell? Oh heck, I'm pathetic. I'm just trying to buy some time here, before I sum it up simply for you. In my single days, the only difference between some of the guys I dated and Charley Manson was......Charley was already locked up.
My worst/ or funniest vacation story ....
*** I never considered long distance trips or extended stays with family, as vacations. To us they were "visits." Always positive and a lot of fun and of course, funny things happened, I usually make them happen.. I had one actual, get-away, relax, see the sights, buy souvenirs, "vacation," when I spent a week in Oahu. It was perfect. I was with the love of my life. It doesn't get any better than that.
A life goal on my bucket list....
**To pack up a Winnebago, hop in and GO! Drive cross country, stop where ever we choose, do whatever would be fun and interesting & meet some great people. I would keep a daily journal and take hundreds of pictures. Continue to travel until the winds blow us back home. Then I'd settle in, to write a book about it all, for my children and grandchildren to keep as memories of Gram and Gramps.
What I most look for in a friend.....
**Character, Intelligence and Authenticity. Beyond these things, he/she must have a finely-tuned sense of humor. I cannot imagine a great friendship without lots of laughter.,
Something I will never part with...
***The dozens of photo albums and journals that contain the images and memories that represent the tale of my life, thus far.....The names and faces and events of my precious family and treasured friends, as well as the stranger or two, I've met along the way. Memories of all those people, places and times that touched my life and left lasting impressions. My favorite walks are down Memory Lane.
A life lesson I will never forget....
++ Never put off an opportunity to spend time with someone you love. No excuses, no apologies, no empty promises.....Drop everything and go. Just do it. Spend quality time with that person who means so much to you. Walk and talk for hours. Dance sing and celebrate together. Hug them til they beg you to let go. Do not ever allow yourself to discover the tragic reality that" Tomorrow may be too late."
The worst part of getting older...
**My prized and infamous "Get Up and GO"..............Got Up and Left.
A writing lesson I learned the hard way...
*** I'm truly hard-pressed to think of anything I learned the easy way. A writing lesson hasn't happened yet. Or, it may have and perhaps I wasn't paying attention. It would be just like me to miss a golden opportunity to learn something important, because my head was up my.......Oh well, there's always next time. ....
My favorite movie and why..
.**You know, these question are not easy to answer. I'm breaking a sweat here, Maria! I love so many movies for any number of reasons. I especially like "Armageddon" and "Crash." Since you insist I choose one, it would have to be the movie I have watched a ridiculous number of times. That movie is "Creator," Peter O'Toole, Vincent Spano, Virginia Masden, David Ogden Steirs. This movie has a very special place in my heart and never fails to refresh my spirit. .
What subjects / genres do you enjoy reading/ about ?
** Books have been my best friends since I was only able to look at the pictures and make stories up in my 4 year old head. The walls in our home are lined with book shelves...all filled to the max. Simply for the sake of having a book in my hands, I'll read just about anything. I do, however have serious preferences. I'm a non-fiction fan....True Crime, Biographies, True Court Cases and anything on Behavioral Science.
What would be a subject/ genre that you would like to read more/ about...
** It wouldn't hurt me one bit to increase my knowledge of History, both U.S and World History. So many of the history hubs I have read here at HP have impressed me as well as educated me. Alastar Packer, Wesman Todd Shaw, UnnamedHarald and several more of our talented History buffs, tell a great story. I'd say these writers are responsible for sparking my interest in History, at this point in my life.
Can you take us to a favorite piece of writing on HubPages by you that does not get much traffic..
.** In a word? No....LOL.....Seriously. Some of my hubs get a lot of traffic, some, less. I have this attitude about my writing. If people read my hubs, I am flattered and grateful. If they do not, so be it. You see, I would write even if no one ever read a thing I wrote. I don't know what that says and guess what? Right! It just doesn't matter to me what that says. "Hub traffic" does not define me, my life and surely not my worth. To me, my hubs are like my children....I love them all. I am completely happy just roaming around hubpages reading, learning and meeting some of the most wonderful people in the world.....YES...we get to become friends with people from everywhere....and what a wealth of knowledge and experiences we can share with one another. I write my hubs when the spirit moves me. I'll tell you what, Maria, I trust you to choose one of my hubs that YOU like. Remember now, all the other hubs that you pass over, will be hurt and feel slighted. My hubs have FEELINGS, you know! But don't let that stop you....lol
At the risk of hurting the feelings of your other hubs, I fell in love with you as I read your series that begins with: "The Journey to the Woman I Am Today".
What song makes you want to pack up and leave the party...?
The party is over so soon? Well, Maria, it's OK. I can take a hint... Play this favorite of mine as I walk out the door, will you? "Good Night, My Love", pleasant dreams and sleep tight, my love. May tomorrow, be sunny and new and bring me closer to you...... (Jesse Belvin/ 1956) Bye bye! The pleasure has been all mine, Maria. Thank you.
What a sweet way to end this interview and this fabulous series in general... Thank you for this perfect selection, dear Paula!
Jesse Belvin: Good Night, My Love
Thank you, Paula....
Hearing this The Supremes song, "Buttered Popcorn" made me giggle aloud and think immediately of you, dear Paula...!
You are a true Sista: loyal, honest, funny as heck and a giver of your heart and soul without blinking...
© Maria Jordan (revised September, 2017)
The Supremes: Buttered Popcorn
Comments
Good Grief!!! Where did this old thing come from?? Seriously. The Hub is pretty old too!!
- AUTHOR
Hi Ann,
So nice to see you here on this 'favorite' interview of our pal Paula.
Have a peaceful weekend,
Maria
This is a great hub and such fun! I love Paula's sense of humour and totally agree with her about friends and laughter.
Well done for putting this together. It gives a lovely picture of such a lovely person.
Ann
- AUTHOR
Yes, Mike, all the 'snipping' in the HP world cannot detract from you or your interview.
Great to check out your interview as well, sassy Paula.
Hugs to you both, Maria
Hello Maria. Hello Paula. In the movie 'Mr. Roberts' Gene Cagney has a line, "Sound the General Alarm. Sound the general alarm.' Someone threw his palm tree overboard. Where was I going with this? Oh, it's OK. Maria's interview of Mr. F opened to wide acclaim. So there is no problems. It is nice to feel appreciated. Thank you. Thank you both.
I have no idea how I missed his interview! I should leave you in charge of informing me but then you'd have no time for anything else. Why are they snipping you? I don't understand ANYTHING they do!
- AUTHOR
Dear Paula,
You make me giggle like no one else. After being 'snipped', your remarks make me feel warm and fuzzy again.
I'll be sure to bring your sentiments to Mike's attention.
Love ya and hugs, Maria
ATTN! Mike Mckbirdbks! (OK, ATTN, please?) I had to come here, to see if you commented on this interview by Maria. Why? Because, today I saw the interview she did with you, in my thread~~read it (It's great!) and to my shock, I see I did not comment!!
Now I must crack the mystery so I can understand how it happened that I did not comment about one of my top 3 male HP authors! I'm ashamed of myself and boy, is my face red!
I have such a long list of explanations (excuses), it would only bore you. I simply can't waste any time when the important thing is that I get back to your interview and leave a comment. I sincerely hope you believe as I do, that "It's NEVER too late.".....um, I suppose that depends on what we're talking about, huh?
I'm off to redeem myself! Hugs, Paula
- AUTHOR
Love you too, dear Paula - merry, peaceful Christmas.
Shyron & Maria......My goodness~~ I'm precious & beautiful ?? Careful! I need to get this head of mine through doorways! LOL
There are a few people I'd like you ladies to TALK to!!! LMAO I love you both.
- AUTHOR
Dear Shyron,
Sorry I'm just getting to thank you for checking out our precious Paula...
... always lovely to see you and hope all is well.
Love, Maria
Maria my beautiful friend, thank you for sharing Paula's confessions with everyone, I think this was written before I joined HP, but I enjoyed it anyway. Paula is such a beautiful person and I wish I had read this sooner.
You did a fantastic job.
Blessings and Hugs.
- AUTHOR
Thanks for stopping back, dear Peg...always wonderful to see you.
Happy, peaceful Easter to you and Paula too. Love, Maria
Back to revisit this one about Paula. Such an outpouring of support for this great interview.
- AUTHOR
Ho ho hope ya'll have a merry Christmas, no matter what list we end up being on...
btw I heard 'naughty is the new nice...' Love ya'll, Maria
Sorry girls......Maria, Martie, Sha, Linda Sue, Vcki (even you!....gasp!) I just left Santa's office. He was checking his naughty/nice list.......I have bad news for all of you.
- AUTHOR
Merry Christmas to effer, to Sha and to all a good night...Love, Maria
Sha & Maria.......Fancy meeting you ladies here on this old corner!
- AUTHOR
Dear Sha,
Thanks for stopping by an interview of one of the coolest and funniest ladies in HubVille - besides you, that is...!! Love ya both, mar
I'm so glad Vicki added a link to this interview in today's post, Paula and Maria. Obviously, I missed it the first time around.
Maria asks some pretty thought-provoking questions. You did a great job of answering them, yet leaving private stuff private. You're a woman who stands strong in your convictions. That is a wonderful quality.
- AUTHOR
I believe Miss Sammie is doing just that. Thanks, my dear friend.
"Happy 86th. BD, Miss Sammie!" Keep us all happy & Safe, please.....Thank you!
- AUTHOR
Miss Sammie has sent you twice today to make me smile...my girl is 86 today in heaven. Love you so very much, Maria
You ladies have brought tears to my eyes and a song to my heart! Nuff said!....Love you!
- AUTHOR
Wonderful to have you drop by, Suzie and I know Paula will be thrilled as well.
I agree that effer rocks. She has had a beautiful and positive effect on many of us!
Have a great week. Hugs, Maria
Hi Maria,
What a fantastic interview with one of my favorite hubbers Paula! A truly amazing lady whom I have so much respect and love for and who has been a real friend. Thank you Maria for this wonderful tribute so richly deserved. Votes +++++ shared!
Paula you rock, always close in my thoughts you have had a very real positive effect on this Irish lass make no mistake and your answers here to Maria's probing Q's are duly noted!!! lol
- AUTHOR
Three of my bestus gal pals in one place and a working Internet...all is well in my world!
Hugs and kisses to effer, Linda and Martie. Listening in a rather loud manner to Sade SOLDIER OF LOVE and dedicating it to all of us...!!
Love, Maria HELLen Theresa
"You make me happy, when skies are gray....You'll never know dear, how much I love you...Please don't take my Sunshine away"...R.I.P precious Kaylee Anthony...........
"You are my sunshine, my only sunshine..."
Hugs, back to you, Martie. Thanks honey.....I need hugs. Love ya, Paula
Xxx..... giving effer a hug, and one for you as well, mar :)
Till.....Sometimes, we have only the time and strength to say the very most important thing. I Love you............Effer
- AUTHOR
"I Second that Emotion..."!
Just what Mary said, effer...Hugs, squeezes and love to you both! Maria
Effer, what a beautiful comment! You are loved and supported by your family at home and your family here! Take the time you need and know we are waiting to hear the roar of those front gates when you re-enter.
- AUTHOR
Oh effer,
I am so happy you took a moment to say HI...be patient and gentle through each step and keep that beautiful sense of humor we all love.
You are correct in that you are surrounded by love of family and friends.
We will welcome you back' when and as' you are ready.
Have a peaceful night. Love, Maria
Linda Sue and Maria.......I would come out, if i knew where I was.....but I'm in a maize and a haze......You know I'm an admitted HP addict.....and complete, cold turkey withdrawal, is considerably painful. I believe I've also admitted to being Directionally dysfunctional....and this maize thing is a real bitch.
I miss all of you so much. I even had to send my love via the forums.....like, my God, I've resorted to advertising my devotion, just for a "fix.".......Addiction is a terrible thing, eh?
I'm up to my a$$ in the office....file cabinet.....paper work, phone calls, appointments...sorting, organizing.......Jim was very meticulous about his record keeping.....but there's just one tiny problem. I can't read his writing.......(sorry honey, but you know it's the worse chicken scratch in the world....sometimes YOU couldn't even read it!) How bad? His brother is a Dr. and he can't even read it.
But...being "busy" is a real blessing. My family and friends are an even greater gift. I may feel very sad and empty right now.....but I know I am loved and being given support and genuine concern from so many wonderful people.
When I get back to you guys....you'll know it. I promise I shall make a THUNDEROUS entrance through the front gates!! Love you girls....to pieces. Effer
- AUTHOR
"Here comes the sun(shine)"...thank you, dear Linda for dropping in...
I am believing that our effer is reading our comments here and there...and will show her beautiful face when she is ready. Time is one of our most precious gifts...
and so is your friendship. Love you both, MM...Maria
Effer...come out, come out where ever you are.
Do you think Paula will stop by to say hello MM? :)
- AUTHOR
On this Sunday, I am sending much love and many hugs to two of the sweetest ladies on HubPages, dear Mary and our lovely Paula.
Love and hugs, Maria
I can't believe I didn't comment on this Hub before, but I don't see it. We never meet one another here, but we share a common bond and love. I am sending love and hugs to you both today. Mary
- AUTHOR
teaches, Thank you so much for your visit and ever so kind words.
Martie, Those hugs are right on time...I know I appreciate them and suspect Paula may as well...you are so cool.
Love to each of you and heck, some hugs of my own, Maria
Maria, I came to give you and Paula a ton of hugs to share. Take us much as you need whenever you need it. I've got unlimited hugs for you in my heart.... Believe me, my hugs are healthy energy-boosters and smile-provoking....
Of course, you both know the power of a smile, even when you look in the mirror and force yourself to smile...
Love you lots!
Paula is such a wonderful person and her wit and humor make the community lively. Your tribute to her is excellent.
- AUTHOR
Linda, How lovely to see you...it is always wonderful to have a ray of your sunshine, even at nighttime!
Audrey, And it is awesome to see you as well, my dear friend!
Love to you both and a special hug to effer...Love always, Maria
Was just thinking about fiffer this evening and came back to visit again. So glad that I did. What a simply wonderful and entertaining account of a lady we all love to love!
Maria, you really know your stuff. May I say "You're Awesome" !~!
Audrey
Howdy MM and Effer! Thinking about you both and sending you some sunshine!! :)
- AUTHOR
I actually think you are both "drop dead gorgeous"... So, yes, I do think you look very much alike, my Sista!
Hugs and HI to you both, Maria
I love Paula's new picture in here. I think we have some common ancestors. We kind of look alike, don't you agree, mar?
((((hugs))) to you all!
- AUTHOR
Hugs to you both and have a peaceful weekend, Maria
Maria.......J. & I thank you & Geoff...sincerely.
Thank you, Maria. She sure does have excellent taste in friends as you are one of them. Your kind words are making me smile as I write this. I hope you both have love and laughter every day of your lives. You deserve it.
- AUTHOR
Now I know my new pal, Honey, is cool...effer dear! I know what excellent taste you have in friends...!!
Thank you both for making me smile this evening...I will continue to focus on positive, beautiful people like the two of you...Love, Maria
Same to you, Effer! Hugs!
HoneyBB.......All I can say is....the feelings are mutual!! Thank you dear. I wish you and yours a very wonderful Holiday Season!
I love effer and what a beautiful tribute to her here. She was one of the first to welcome me to hubpages and what a wonderful, warm welcome it was. She drops in on me every now and then and either has me rolling on the floor laughing or at the very least grinning from ear to ear. Thanks for sharing so much of her with us. Voted across the board. +++++
- AUTHOR
Effer, I love your EFFUSIVE ENERGY and EVERYTHING ELSE about you.
Love you and Linda and Hugs to both, Maria
Lookie here! Two of my BESTEST FAVORITEST FRIENDSEST IN THE WORLDEST!! SUNSHINEST AND MARIAEST! THE SUPERLATIVE TWINS.........LOVE AND HUGS......EFFER-EST!!
- AUTHOR
Having you here, Linda, is the icing on my cake! Love you both, MM
My SFAM and My MM. This interview is perfection! :)
- AUTHOR
Thanks for MAKING me smile with your kind words about Paula, moonlake.
Enjoyed reading your hub on Paula. I enjoy reading Paula's hubs also. Interesting and voted up.
- AUTHOR
LORD, So LOVELY to know all is well...Glad you LANDED here to PRAISE Paula...Hugs to you both, Maria
We all MUST have some child in us, Lord.....it's the part of us that keeps us asking, "Why."......so the adult in us, can seek for answers!.....
Last Interview with a thoughtful mom and admired writer. Love her cunning style and her humor. PAULA you put a smile on my face all the time, and I'm not a kiddo anymore (WELL... sometimes) Great answers from a wonderful lady; thanks Maria for this series.
- AUTHOR
Paula in PA...?? PRAISE the Lord...I will be PLEASED as PUNCH to meet up with you both...
BEST-able is my new favorite word! Hugs to you both, Maria
Maria......Dexter is hug-able......Sharyn is Love-able........and you are
just the very BEST-able!!.........do NOT tell me that's not a word. I refuse to believe it.
Sharyn.....Well, I don't normally share my depends with anyone...but you? No problem!! Just so you know...mine are the triple thickness.....a bit uncomfortable, but socially preferred over wet pants.
We'll have to meet in PA. Not too many places around here that still allow me in........well, except for the Dining Room at "Shady Rest"......I have a friend there. She invites me to dinner every Sunday because she thinks I'm her Great Grandmother from England. I've told her repeatedly that I'm from Italy, but she forgets..........See ya, Sharyn!
- AUTHOR
Dex, You DEFINITELY know how to DEFINE DECENCY and DELIGHT in your remarks to Paula.
Sharon, You are SIMPLY SAYING what I feel about effer...She is SPECIAL, SUPPORTIVE and SUPREMELY SASSY!
Hugs to y'all and Hi to Paula......Maria
Well, not only was I extremely engrossed and entertained with this interview, the comments are simply a riot. Not surprising when we are talking about Paula!!!
You, Paula, are one of those people I would love to meet in person. I know you would make me laugh continuously and not even be upset with me when I pee my pants. Knowing you, you'd probably just quietly hand me a Depends and keep right on talkin'.
Great interview series Maria. I truly am honored to be a part of it too.
Hi Momma! Isn't Effer, phenomenal?! Her wonderful spirit transcends cyberspace and time. I have no doubt that there is so much fun awaiting one that comes into her presence, because it certainly has come to those of us that know her online.
Great, great interview!
Audrey! The most sweet, beautiful Vocal Coach, ever!! I have personally known 2 vocal coaches in my life. One was the Dad of my eldest son's High School sweetheart. His name was "Everet" (Ev)....such a nice man, with a great baritone voice......and I don't know if you are familiar with a not-so-well-known-singer named "Clint Holmes?" Remember, "Playgrounds in My Mind?" My name is Michael, I got a nickle, I got a nickle, shiny and new...I'm gonna buy you, all kinds of candy.......? Anyway, He's from Western NY. His parents lived about 3 miles down the road from where I live right now.
His Dad worked for the Gas Co. and his Mom had been an Opera singer in England....and she gave voice lessons from her home.
Now, why did I just go on about this? I have no idea, Audrey!!
OH....I guess I gathered that.....unless there was another GRL.......that I hadn't heard of......In the movie....Karl Malden play's Gypsy's boyfriend or husband?? Saw it YEARS ago.
Paula the original Gypsy was my inspiration and the movie I saw ages ago. Perhaps another look is in order. Thanks for reminding me. Hugs.
- AUTHOR
Paula, Your revelations are PROFOUND and PRETTY interesting...thanks for PROFESSING that I have soul, sweet thang!
Peggy, I am not PLEASED at how long its taking me to respond to your PERCEPTIVE and PRAISEWORTHY comments.
Gypsy, Thank you for your GENEROUS and GRACIOUS remarks.
Hugs to you all, Maria
When I saw your name, Gypsy, I thought of something that I think is interesting (keep in mind Im easily amused) But, our dear, sweet friend, Maria, Interviewer of the century.....put that picture of Natalie Wood at the top of the page (long story)
Well, Natalie Wood co-starred with Rosiland Russell in the film version of the Broadway Musical, "Gypsy," based on the real life burlesque entertainer, "Gypsy Rose Lee." GREAT story....have you seen it? OK....that's my big revelation for today! Hugs to you too!
Enjoyed lots getting to know more about Paula. I sure enjoy her hubs and her comments as well. Another wonderful interview Maria and hugs to you both. Paula you got hubs for the soul.
peg....LOL....speaking of "funny," you crack me up, girl! If I woke up hearing a small voice saying anything, much less, "fpherj, fpherj"....I'd get to a Doc mighty quickly. BTW...that is a group of initials, that bring me luck. Yes, my real name is "Paula," and the "Effer" nickname....well, that came from none other than our Sunshine625....when she couldn't figure out how the hell to say FPHERJ. It has stuck....people like to swear incognito.
Those dates from hell were a long, long time ago...but definitely not forgotten!! Hey...I was the prototype for the famous non-fiction book, "Smart Women, Foolish Choices." Then I smartened up and became a foolish woman who made smart choices.. or...er...something like that. I'm with you....I simply would not date now EVEN IF I WAS AVAILABLE. EEK!! Thanks for stopping by.....I'm really glad you hear voices in your head! On the other hand...you shouldn't be. lol
Maria is a perfect soul-sista...because she's a beautiful SOUL!!
You know, I woke up with some small voice saying fpherj, fpherj, fpherj in my head and I thought, "What the hay?". What's that supposed to mean? And then I ran across this hub. You could have smacked me down with a feather. It was absolutely what I needed to read today, with the added bonus of finding an author who writes with passion, heart and soul. And is funny too, of course. So thanks to both fpherj (so glad to know your name now ) Paula, and to Maria my soul sista for this entertaining and enlightening hub. Paula, I loved your line about the worst dates you've had being like CM. You have exactly defined what would probably come up as my "match.com" companion responses (If I were dating - oh thank goodness, not) It perfectly described some of my past dates too.
- AUTHOR
b. Malin, Thanks for BEING here to check out Paula's PONDERINGS... I always BEAM when I see you.
fpher, We shall send FLASHERS and plenty of FORTITUDE to keep you 'on track and back', FEARLESS FRIEND...! Oh, you need FUDGE and FINLANDIA too...OK, coming right up, geez...!!
Have a happy Friday night ya'll! Hugs, Maria
b. Malin.....Hello there and welcome to Maria's interview with"Moi".....I'm overwhelmed with all the visits and sweet comments. Thanks for stopping by!
Oh gosh M.T. I couldn't possibly leave all my friends here. I may have to send for emergency road help!
I've just recently started Following Paula's Hubs and Enjoy what I've read so far. She's definitely got a Wonderful Sense of Humor and a Great, Warm and Practical side. We get to meet such Talented Women Writers here. Great Interview Maria!
Paula, I meant a laptop or other electronic gadget so you can keep in touch with us. You can travel only if it means you won't leave us.
Yes...time for Night-Night.....sleep tight. Pleasant dreams......I'm done for the day too....Tired!
- AUTHOR
Jaye, I am JUST tickled that you like the pic I selected for Paula...and I am always so happy when you stop by as well.
Leslie, My scrolling is growing by LEAPS and bounds and how did you know my LEGS were aching!! Sabrina was ROBBED, I tell ya...!!
Millionaire Tips, So pleased to MEET you, THANKS for stopping by.
It's WONDERFUL to see you as WELL, Wayne!
Glad you were ESPECIALLY moved by this interview, ESCOBANA.
It's UNANIMOUS UnnamedHarald... We all think Paula is the best!
drbj, You are the DARLING of DESCRIPTION in much DEPTH, DECENCY and DETAIL.
Nell, NATURALLY I love when you stop by. Hope you are well.
Mohan, Your MIGHTY sweet, MY MAN...hoping the wedding was MAGNIFICENT, just like you...!
Paula, You are PLUMB wearing me out with your PRETTY, PLEASANT and way PAST my bedtime POINTS...Love y'all and will catch you in the morning, Maria
Docmo...The honor and the pleasure has been all mine.....I'm in heaven when I'm surrounded by such incredible intelligence and talent, as I am here, with you & men and women who share your brilliance.
I simply could never give back as much as I have received from you and our shared community.......Thank you for coming by to read my interview with our very Special Lady, Maria! Is she not a precious gem?
So glad you love me Nell....feeling is mutual...In fact, since you're getting a brand new bath and kitchen...I've decided I'm moving in!! Just one thing...at Tea Time, I prefer coffee.....Oh, yes, and I do love scones!! lol
It's about time .. I knew this would be coming and it's oh so sweet when it has. Paula has been another of those strong, funny, creative and incredibly supportive women I have had the pleasure of meeting here in Hubland. It is great to get to know her more through your interview Mar. The answers reveal her multifaceted marvels and her delightful personality. I love me some Daisy- May !
Hi Maria, what a fantastic choice you made here! love paula or effer to bits! lol! she is one of my favorite hubbers, and that says a lot because I love em all! haha! she always leaves great comments too, that make it so personal and special, so yes we love the effer! voted up! nell
drbj....Have crossed your path and exchanged with you....more than once, I'm sure. But a quick trip to your site, tells me I've been hanging out in Clueless County again....sitting in the park with the rest of the folks, watching the crowds go by......recognizing no one. What a sad schmuck I am.
Thank so much for coming by to read Maria's Interview.....!!
Unnamed Harald......Yes, you and Alastar and Wesman have ignited a flame for History......which never even came close to the fire in school....oh yuk......History class was for writing notes to fellow students!!......I guess our History teachers just didn't have the FLAIR, you guys do! ..........
Escobana....I am pleased to meet you. Of course I cruised to your site ....and what do I find, but an amazingly beautiful, obviously talented woman from Valencia! Bueno! Your hubs are beckoning me. I look forward to getting to know YOU.
Thank you so much for stopping by Maria's Interview. Hasta Luego, amiga mia! Buenos Noches!
Maria......You brought me a bonus too!
Karen...please guard those tid bits carefully....I may need to ask you to tell me who I am...some day....when they've tucked me away in the "Home.".....
Wayne....I am sincerely honored by your kind words. It is beyond my expectations to be graced with a compliment from such a Genius.
Funny thing.....my husband has said that I always seem to "find that one damned small thing that no one else would ever notice!" It's the look on his face and the tone of voice that tells me he just doesn't mean it quite the same pleasant way that you do........gulp!
M.T. If I do not take a GPS....No one will ever see me.......ever again. Only the Great OZ can know where I may wander, clueless and crying.
Jaye.....A "tag sale"....is that where you run around the yard holding up an antique lamp and if someone TAGS you, it's theirs? I wanna play!
I'm safely assuming it's a yard sale? I hope you had good weather and great revenue! It has RAINED here in WNY...non-stop for 4 days. Dark, dreary and cold. But, we certainly can't complain, considering what the rest of the east coast has suffered.
Always good to see you, dear Master of the Short Story!....I know it should be "Mistress,"....but I just don't think that word is the word to use!.........Bless you, Jaye Wisdom!
What fun, Maria, to get to know more about Paula from this intimate, inimitable interview and her ingratiating responses. Thank you.
What a great hub about a great lady. I am very flattered Paula has enjoyed my history hubs enough to mention me in her interview. I think many of us who toil in the history genre are always secretly pleased to "convert" those who have been turned off by history subjects at school. It makes us try harder to make it interesting. I like her self-deprecation-tinged-with-steel style and have enjoyed her many interesting and honest comments
"Hub traffic" does not define me, my life and surely not my worth.
Somehow this sentence caught my eye, while reading through this lovely interview! Great job. Congratulations to the both of you!
Paula truly is an inspiring woman and it was great to get to know her a little better:-)
Up, shared and Awesome!
Paula always has an angle that no one else noticed and she delivers it with a bit of humor. Her writing is fresh and crisp and carries that same edgy humor that seems to seep from her great personality. I really enjoyed the additional insight. Thanks for sharing. ~WB
167