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This month we’re going to recall Summer Songs. These will all be records that topped the charts during August.

1) Number 1 on the charts in August 30 years ago, “Colors of the Wind” is from the Disney hit, Pocahontas. Have you seen it?

Back when it first came out, but not since.

2) This song celebrates the glories of nature. Have you spent much time outdoors this summer? If yes, what have you enjoyed doing?

Some. Summer in Hawai’i is also monsoon season, so there’s that. Weather can be very hit or miss.

3) Lyricist Stephen Schwartz said he was inspired by the works of Chief Seattle, Henry David Thoreau, and Ralph Waldo Emerson. Who is your favorite author?

Mercedes Lackey. I’ve been reading and rereading her still-ongoing Valdemar saga since the very first book in 1987. And I mean that literally. I’ve literally never not been reading some part of the saga for the last 38 years.

4) This week’s artist, Vanessa Williams, came to national attention as Miss America 1984. In the talent competition she sang “Happy Days Are Here Again.” Over the years, contestants have sung, recited original poetry, danced, twirled batons, performed gymnastics and demonstrated martial arts. Which of your talents would wow the judges?

Oof. None of my talents lie in the performing arts. Although, I was a dancer once upon a time.

5) Her family tree includes William A. Fields, who served in the Tennessee House of Representatives in the late 19th century. Are you interested in genealogy?

Not really, although my dad dived in when I was young. Which resulted in finding out I’m directly related to William Wadsworth Longfellow, John Alden and Priscilla Mullins of Mayflower fame are my 11 greats grandparents, and I’m far down on the list of succession for the throne of Luxumbourg. Don’t ask for details. I have none!

6) Vanessa supports the non-profit Dress for Success, which helps unemployed and underemployed women prepare with career coaching, networking and professional attire. Have you ever gone into a job interview found yourself unprepared? Or, if you prefer, tell us about an interview you confidently aced. 

I’ve never had a bad interview, so that’s good. I had a pink power suit to which I give all credit.

Let’s look at the summer of 1995.

7) 1995’s best-selling new car was the Ford Taurus. That summer, dealers were promoting a 6.9% APR loan or $1,500 cash back with purchase. This summer, drivers with good credit might get a better deal because the average APR for new car loans is a little lower. Do you keep your eye on fluctuating interest rates?

Not really. Not in the market for cars, so it hasn’t really been an issue.

8) English yachtswoman Lisa Clayton made history by sailing solo around the world. It took her 10 months. Would you be comfortable spending months and months alone?

Would I love it? No. But I could do it.

9) Legendary New York Yankee Mickey Mantle died in 1995. How is your baseball team doing this season?

Fun fact, my youngest brother is named, in part, after Mickey Mantle. Our father was a hardcore Yankees fan. I don’t really have a baseball team. I’m a hockey girl.