Next Question with Tree Bone

The fourth installment of Next Question (NQ) features Zero-Fucks-Given Tree Bone, our feature lady in the group of select-GM's. I thought a feature NQ of our resident feline would pair well today given that it's International Women's Day, so I caught up with the lavish lady at a sophisticated social, complete with assortments of fine cheeses, distinguished personnel and boarded games (extra Catan).

Good evening, Tree Bone.

Hi, Commissioner Randy! Long time no see!

Yes, it's been quite some time. How have you been?

Busy! You know me, always striving to live life to the fullest!

You were supposed to arrive a while ago... are you 'fashionably' late?

Haha oh no, not at all. I was working!

On a Friday night?

Sure thing, Commissioner. I'm in the grind, working wherever and whenever I can. We all need to make ends meet, and I'm no different.

You are an inspiration to the next generation of women, Tree Bone.

Aw, why thank you, Commissioner. But honestly, there are way more inspirational and influential women than me. I'm just building the best life I can, taking it all in and being positive and being happy with who I am.

What a great perspective. You are happy, yes?

Absolutely. The last six months or so have been exceptionally special. Not only did my Pride Rock and I find a dwelling to settle into, but we also got married last summer. Then, a couple we've been very close with moved back into town and we offered them our spare room while they got settled. Living together with them under one roof has been so much fun; it's like summer camp every single day.

How long will they stay?

They're actually in the process of moving out as they've found their own place. But, they'll only be a few houses from us so we'll still be in close proximity.

So life will get back to normal soon?

I guess, though I will miss living with them. Like I said, it's extremely fun.

Speaking of 'fun', how's married life?

Great! Though I must say I don't think there's any real change except for the extra weight on my finger.

Ever get sick of each other?

Of course! (Laughter) But every couple goes through their arguments. We have one rule in our house, and that's never go to bed angry. Arguing is normal and healthy, so we just make sure that we get it all out and make up before our heads hit the pillow.

"We better make up before bed!"

That's a good rule to live by. Any other rules?

I'm not sure if it's a rule, but we strive to make time for one another. Despite living together, we find it hard to actually see and spend time with one another. We're both very social and have lots going on, so sometimes we won't see each other at all. We both work full time, so we hardly see each other during the day. I'm usually working a few evenings and weekends tutoring students too, so sometimes I don't see him for days. He's an avid skier too, so sometimes he just runs out to the slopes for an evening. It's tough!

How do you make time, then?

As lame as it sounds, we do try to have date nights which means that we actually allocate time to one another in our calendars. I'm serious, because if we don't, we end up getting booked up with something else. We love date nights.

Date nights with Tree Bone.

What do you do on a date night?

It could be a variety of things, but it's usually having time to sit down together for a meal. Our schedules are so different, to the point that we don't actually eat at the same times during the week. It's a bit rare for us, so being able to sit down and eat together is something we value highly.

Do you go out? Eat in?

We do splurge once in a while and go out for a dinner. Pride Rock is a pretty good cook though, so eating in is not a problem!

I've heard about his famous stews. He's quite the master chef.

It really comes in handy for potlucks. I see Sitch and his wife from time to time and we usually get a potluck going. There's never a shortage of food.

Oh really? I had no idea you and Sitch had potlucks.

Oh yes, most definitely. He's got a dumpling recipe that he makes from scratch and Pride Rock and I have become big fans. We've even made it a few times at our home. Sitch may be a gym-ratty bore, but damn he can make a good dumpling. It's fun times all around.

Sounds like you're living the dream, Tree Bone. I'm very happy for you.

Thanks, Commissioner! Now if you'll excuse, me, I think my husband is calling me...