Kim C, you mentioned that the reel is sometimes called a "weasel" and will make a "pop" sound after so many turns. Sounds like you were hinting at this being the source for "Pop Goes the Weasel." It's an interesting thought. I was pretty much sold on the explanation in this wonderful Pop Goes the Weasel thread from several months ago, that it comes from British slang for selling or pawning one's work kit to get needed funds. Maybe there's a connection there. More food for thought, courtesy of the Mudcat Cafe! (It's amazing what I can come up with when I'm trying not to work...)

Aloha,
Mark