My Brain

2009-09-23T06:00:00.001-04:00

Pull up a chair folks... I may ramble a bit, but I do have a point.

For about a week now an article I happened across has been running through my mind and I can't seem to let it go. The headline was timely and piqued my interest enough that I went to the site, "Why Joe (and Kanye and Serena) Won't Apologize" by Rabbi Brad Hirschfield. The title of course refers to the recent public outbursts we have witnessed from public figures during public/televised moments.

The Rabbi's article was born of another article written solely about Joe Wilson's outburst during the President's speech earlier this month: "Oh, Mr, Wilson..." in which she refers to "a political era of uninhibited belligerence." (btw, spot on Ms. Parker!)

Hirschfield makes many excellent points and describes our current social climate perfectly: It's all about me! Look at me! Look what I did! Look who I was! I'm mad! I'm happy! I hate this! I love that! I took a breath! I love cereal! I love haggis! I dressed myself! I exhaled! I go potty!

He also addresses our loss of civility toward each other. If you haven't noticed a lack of awareness for our fellow man, just take a look at how people act in stores, movie theatres, and how they park their cars. Our loss of civility is apparent in our daily interactions with others face to face, and how we expect it to be any better online where you can be faceless and nameless.

In the political venue, our town halls are rude, offensive and unintelligent. Our public displays almost always involve some sort of racism or kooky End Timer's declaration, and without fail defame or disenfranchise a minority.

In the social venue, we have retreated to the safety of our computer screens and cell phones where we can go about declaring our loves and hates for all the world to see, or not, depending on your friends or followers.

After playing around on Facebook for a few months and having caught up with a few people from high school, I grew tired of #1 feeling involved with people I really don't even know anymore or care to #2 taking a peek into the current views and thoughts from people of which I had fond memories started to really disappoint and depress me. "You mean everyone isn't a Democrat? Not everybody my age is proud of our new President?" I am naive in a lot of respects. So one afternoon it hit me----Hey! I don't have to do this! I don't HAVE to have a Facebook account and see people's stupidity. It was an epiphany that set me free like crazy and I felt a huge weight of involvement lift from my shoulders. I know it sounds stupid, but I felt chained. Granted, I had chained myself, but chained nonetheless. I understand that some folks really enjoy that interaction and involvement, but it's not for me. Much of my day is spent listening to people tell me things I don't want to know, so why subject myself to it on my off time?

(I told you I might ramble. Rethinking that chair now aren't you?)

Most of you know, I started this blog to give me an outlet for my frustrations during the dark dark time now known as the Bush Administration. It served me well. I had a creative outlet to express my feelings of being forced to watch a buffoon take over our country and, what seems like permanently change/deepen the wedge between parties and citizens.
Most of you also know that I tend to lean toward the Chicken-Little-Negative-Nellie-The-Glass-Is-Half-Empty-OMG-What-If-"That"-Happens? kind of thinking. I know, it's a shock! Mary Sunshine I am not! That being said, I am finding that I censor myself so as not to always post negative rants. I don't want to put that out there to become my destiny or prophecy. Some days I want to just rant like a loon about something or someone, but I've come to the realization that yelling about it on here doesn't help me anymore. In fact I think it feeds me. Bad, Seymour.
In short, I don't want to be a part of the uncivil or the uninhibited belligerents anymore. I'm sick of hearing me talk.
There are many times and days when I look at Jen and say, "I love my blog!" I know I am it's biggest fan. Isn't that just the definition of a self-centered individual?!

So after close to four years, 14K hits, and 918 posts, I'm done. At least for now.

Thank you for reading, thank you for commenting, thank you for still being my friends after knowing how My Brain functions. It was fun!

What's that? Twitter, you say? Oh I'm not giving up Twitter! Slices of daily life served with a side of brevity? Yes, please!

2009-09-21T05:40:00.001-04:00

No Broadway Monday today.

Stay tuned.

so how did you spend your Saturday evening/morning?

2009-09-20T16:47:00.006-04:00

Here's ours, don't be jealous.
10:00 pm: in bed hopeful for a good night's sleep
11:30 pm: participants for a gathering next door begin to arrive
12:30 am: taxis arrive to pick up the partiers and shuttle them to the local bars
2:00 am: drunk students arrive home from the bars and have more
revelers in tow
2:30 am: yay! pizza arrives
3:30 am: the party moves out back onto the deck--why not let everyone take part in the celebration?!
3:45 am: we call the non-emergency police
3:55 am: police arrive
4:05 am: citation issued for the dumbshits next door
4:10 am: we crawl back in bed
4:20 am: fireworks go off sending the Husky into her version of the Fight orFlight Response aka the Pee and Poo Response
4:30 am: we crawl back into bed...again
4:55 am: another round of fireworks
5:05 am: well we might as well stay up now
5:35 am: finish watching the movie from the night before
5:40 am: bleary-eyed we attempt to sleep one more time
8:00 am: start the day with baggy eyes and some phenomenal bedhead

Did I mention that I spent all of the daylight hours of Saturday with a fever? Yeah, so some rest would have been helpful.
But hey, aren't you glad the Gators beat Tennessee?

sometimes I am actually present in the moment

2009-09-18T06:00:00.003-04:00

Poignant moment today as my lovely and I worked with a young man who just earlier this year was in a coma after suffering severe injuries and brain damage from a drunk driving incident.

As I delivered the protocols for cold laser therapy to his legs, spine and brain, Jen was engaging him in activities to stimulate his gross motor skills. Something like lifting his leg in a requested direction is difficult for him. His brain and body are struggling to remap the paths that allow him to move effortlessly, like you and I.

Couldn't help but notice his struggle to complete the tasks as this song rang throughout the office in the background. ("Be OK" by Ingrdi Michaelson)

I wonder if his brain heard this quiet mantra as he worked so hard learning to walk again?
I like to think so.

Wowee Wednesday

2009-09-16T05:15:00.008-04:00

Glee Someone in the TV biz took pity on me and the fact that I only watch HGTV, X-Play, and Damages due to the fact that there is a lot of shitty-shit on the tube nowadays. That's right the extent of my television entertainment involves home repair/design, gaming news, and a frightening and enthralling story about a maniacal lawyer in New York. Yeah. I needed something new, fresh and musical. Enter Glee (cue angels singing)

Glee celebrates that inner geek in all of us through the efforts of a hopeful young high school teacher trying to make a difference in the lives of a few misfit kids by breathing life into the defunct Glee Club.

Watching one hour of this show and I don't know how a viewer can escape from finding their high school selves in at least one of the characters. It is my hope that you weren't a bully, cuz let's be honest, bullies aren't nice.

I know that watching this show makes me realize that even though I was one of the popular kids in high school, I also felt like one of the misfits. That's the great thing about Glee: as an adult, you realize that no matter our status, inside we all feel a bit inferior and like an outcast.

Glee is sprinkled with music from all eras, including...wait for it...Broadway! Two shows in and we've heard everything from show tunes to disco, and Rhianna to Salt-n-Pepa. A special nod to theatre geeks is given as the cast includes many actors who have recently graced the stage on Broadway. The brains behind this show knew what they were doing when the cast Lea Michele from Spring Awakening and Matthew Morrison from Hairspray and South Pacific in pivotal roles. Fierce and loyal fans have already formed a following called "Gleeks" on Twitter and Facebook. Aww Internet, look at you bringing outcasts together...

Did I mention that someone at Fox was brilliant enough to woo the incredible Jane Lynch to star as the coach for the cheer leading squad known as the Cheerios? Brills! We have watched both episodes twice just to experience the comedy gold that Jane brings to the screen.

Glee lights up the screen Wednesdays at 9pm on Fox. Tonight is the third episode, so you are not too far behind. Tune in!

Broadway Monday

2009-09-14T05:19:00.008-04:00

Oleanna

A female student charges her male professor with sexual exploitation in David Mamet's drama, which examines explosive contemporary issues — the assumption of power, intellectual freedom and sexual politics. The battle for power and control begins, but does not end on stage.

Inspired by the Clarence Thomas hearings of September 1991, playwright David Mamet presented Oleanna at the feet of the theatre community in May 1992. It is widely seen as a direct response to the hearings and the controversy and countrywide dialogue that ensued.

The play is also well known for making the audience squirm in their seats with discomfort over a touchy subject, yet leave them engaged in deep discussion at curtains end. In this regard, Oleanna reminds me of John Patrick Shanley's Doubt. No matter what side you choose, there are equally as powerful arguments for the other point of view and the debaters are swayed toward the other with each word. The official website even says, "Whatever side you take, you're wrong."

In other words: WARNING! Passionate discussions ahead!

The best plays leave you discussing the mechanics while strolling back to your room or home. Brilliant.

Bill Pullman and Julia Stiles have been tapped as the cast for the debut, and look to be handling it well according to the reviews.

Oleanna will make it's Broadway debut this year after playing Off-Broadway since it's inception.

Previews begin September 29, 2009 at John Golden Theatre with an Opening Night of October 11, 2009. The play is currently running open-ended.

2009-09-10T05:09:00.007-04:00

Last night, for the bagillionth time in the last nine months, my president made me proud. It's like Obama is on some sort of quest to make me proud of my country again or something...

I hope you watched the speech on healthcare to Congress last night. I hope that any questions or fears were allayed and I hope you went to sleep feeling a little better about our possibilities of solving this decades old dilemma. Most of all I hope something positive comes from this.

If you watched, you were treated to the latest in Republican self-implosion techniques as Congressman Joe Wilson (R-SC) shouted "You lie!" and "Not true!" during the speech. I thought my head was going to explode! Since when is it okay for members of Congress to shout down a president during a speech? I don't care what party is in power--it is not appropriate.

Thanks Joe Wilson for adding another shovel of dirt on your party's already heaping grave. You guys are making this effortless.

Big ups to the members of the GOP who all but broke a leg to rush out of the chamber and denounce their colleague with demands for apology. However, they weren't fast enough to keep up with Wilson who blazed a trail reminiscent of the Road Runner before them. Wilson has issued an apology, but that may be little comfort to his party today as they try to distance themselves and defend him all at the same time. Should be an interesting news cycle, no?

Anyone spot Eric Cantor outside the chamber pourin' one out for his homies? Anyone? Nobody.

Wowee Wednesday

2009-09-09T14:39:00.000-04:00

The Beatles

You'd be hard pressed to find another band or group of writers who have made a bigger mark on popular music than The Beatles. Go ahead--just try.

When we were children (assuming you are my age) our parents most likely were fresh out of the throws of being a teenager and mooning over John, Paul, George, and Ringo. Some of our parents actually saw their historic appearance on The Ed Sullivan Show and witnessed their march up our charts and into our hearts. That's pretty cool.

I grew up studying the cover of Sgt Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album cover while listening to the vinyl disc inside. I knew I by heart. Because my parents albums were always unorganized, I was under the impression that the Abbey Road music accompanied the ornate cover of Sgt Pepper. (Similarly, I thought The Who's Who Are You went with the Led Zeppelin III cover)

Are you ready for the second British invasion of The Beatles? Well, you better prepare because it happens today!

EA, Harmonix, and MTV Games is releasing The Beatles: Rock Band today for gaming consoles and the thought of a whole new generation getting exposed to these four fabulous guys via a video game is just awesome! I haven't decided yet whether we will purchase the game or not. Frankly, the music is too good to have me ruin it with my inept attempts at guitar and singing. What's that? Drums you say are maybe my thing? Oh silly...have you met me?

2009-09-09T06:09:00.004-04:00

Wowee Wednesday will launch as soon as Blogger fixes a few problems.

Patience my minions, patience.

Broadway Monday

2009-09-07T07:37:00.006-04:00

The Retributionists

Spring 1946. The plan was simple--a German for every Jew. Its execution would be swift, clean, its impact undeniable. A band of young Jewish freedom fighters attempts to avenge a society's wrongs--if only they can keep from tearing each other apart in the process.

This romantic thriller is based on real events detailed in the memoir Revenge: A Story of Hope by Laura Blumenfeld who writes her story of searching for the man who shot her father. Along the way she learned of the various ways cultures embrace and execute revenge.

The observations found in the book are what propelled this play. Writer Daniel Goldfarb says "It's a cautionary tale. "What I'm interested in exploring is what revenge does to a society."

Interesting concept that yields a lesson applicable in everyday life. The Retributionists is currently in previews at Playwrights Horizons/Mainstage Theatre and will run September 14-27. Tony Award winner for Next to Normal, Tom Kitt penned the music for this production.

won't be surprised to see this headline soon

2009-09-05T07:50:00.003-04:00

President Obama Breathes, Controversy Ensues.

How insane are things going to get? At what point will the conservative base not jump on everything Obama does? I mean it is really getting ridiculous.

He's not American. He's a socialist. He supports staying in school. He wears pants. He breathes air. He has eyes. He gets haircuts. He doesn't get haircuts. He's black.....

Oh I get it.

my cup runneth over...with dumb

2009-09-03T08:40:00.002-04:00

Maybe it's my hormones.
Maybe it's my frustration with my split-personality Husky.
Maybe I've just had enough of dealing with the de-evolved community that surrounds me. Maybe it's the Birthers fault. I mean, come on, they are just annoying. And stupid.
I'm just very impatient and crabby today.
Impatient with stupidity and effed up behaviors. Crabby with people who have crossed that fluctuating line with me that propels them into the dark, dark world of I-Can't-Stand-You-ville. Wow that place is getting crowded....

Wowee Wednesday

2009-09-01T20:10:00.005-04:00

Ben & Jerry

We all know them by their first names. Frankly they are the Cher and Madonna of the ice cream world. Because who need a last name when you are this good?

Always keeping up with the times and the pulse of America, the ice cream moguls are forever announcing a new flavor that resonates with the people, fills their bellies and and of course insures the brand's long life. It's impossible to resist limited edition flavors that take a stand or support a cause like ONE Cheesecake Brownie-Make Poverty History, or Imagine Whirled Peace yet still purchasing good ole' standards like Cherry Garcia , Chunky Monkey, and Coffee Coffee Coffee Buzz Buzz Buzz

Well kids, they've done it again. Just when I though I had broken my dependency on ice cream, (a girl can dream) Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield have made it a no brainer that I will be buying at least one more pint of the deliciousness that is the former flavor Chubby Hubby.

Behold the newly renamed flavor in support of same-sex marriage, Hubby Hubby!

Genius, thoughtful, forward thinking, inclusive, bold and yet as tasty as ever! Bravo!

give me your feedback

2009-09-01T10:54:00.005-04:00

Without exception, good or bad, bitchy or sweet, I want to know.

I'd love to hear everyone's feedback on the following question:

Is is appropriate for one to expect others to
celebrate/herald/travel in from out of state and town to attend your "graduation" ceremony from
yet another rehab facility?

Broadway Monday

2009-08-31T05:34:00.000-04:00

The Bacchae

Dionysus is a young god, angry that his mortal family has denied him a place of honor as a deity. His mother was a mistress of Zeus, and while pregnant she was killed because she looked upon Zeus in his divine form. Much of the family refuses to believe that Dionysus is the son of Zeus, and the young god is spurned in his home.

He has traveled the world over gathering a cult of female worshippers, The Bacchae.

As the play begins Dionysus has returned to his home disguised as a stranger, ready to take revenge on his family. He has driven the women of Thebes into an ecstatic frenzy, much to the horror of their families. Complicating matters, his cousin, King Pentheus, has declared a ban on the worship of Dionysus throughout Thebes.

This Greek tragedy is based on the mythological story of King Pentheus of Thebes and his mother Agavë, and their punishment by the god Dionysus for refusing to worship him. It is the classic story about what happens when a government attempts to outlaw desire.

Euripides' tragedy marks the fourth time a Greek work has been presented by The Public Theater's Shakespeare in the Park, following Electra (1964), Agamemnon (1977) and Medea (1986).
Performances of Shakespeare in the Park are Tuesday-Sunday at 8 PM at the beautiful Delacorte Theatre in Central Park.

Before I could get this up for today, the show announced it's closing for August 30th. Performances ran August 24th through the 30th not including previews. I hope you were lucky enough to have scored tickets!

clearly a glutton for punishment

2009-08-28T05:00:00.002-04:00

How long does it take to forget a completely forgettable convention experience?

Apparently two years.

See you on Broadway Monday.

2009-08-27T05:00:00.002-04:00

I by no means assume I have a bevy of readers, anyone really cares about what I have to say, or that I make a difference in the blogosphere. I created this blog as an outlet for my frustrations with our political landscape, frustrations with others around me, and generally my frustrations with myself. I think it has helped. For the most part, I know I can come to my keyboard and let it all fly out of my fingertips. Good, bad, ugly, mundane, exciting, repetitive, blood, sweat, and tears.
My regular readers will agree that I have been known to say unpopular thoughts decorated with the occasional f-bomb. My disdain for George W. Bush and love for Barack Obama are no secret. I think Ronald Reagan was a joke and Bill Clinton (although he disappointed me) is a stellar humanitarian. In other words, my political views are right out there for everyone to see.
All that being said, I find it hysterical that I received a rather rude, if not to the point anonymous comment on this blog yesterday. Was it for bashing Sarah Palin? Was it for last November's Wowee Wednesday? Was it for my shaky foray into live blogging the Presidential debates? Maybe it was the Bush/McClellan lovefest...
Nope. It was apparently because my dad helped us remodel our upstairs bathroom two years ago. How dare I. I do not want to draw attention to bad behavior, but somehow this poor person is equating a father helping his daughter with welfare. Sounds like a frustrated conservative. Maybe they should start a blog.

muchas gracias

2009-08-26T12:59:00.003-04:00

To the Einstein who shot off fireworks this morning at 1:30 am:

Thank you for scaring my neurotic dog so much that she ran upstairs and peed in the hall. I love to clean up pee in the middle of the night.
I wasn't fond of that REM sleep anyway and my burning eyeballs accompanied by a nice set of baggage is a great reminder of how much we love it when UF starts the Fall semester.

Love,
Me

Wowee Wednesday

2009-08-26T06:05:00.000-04:00

Alicia Silverstone So now that Alicia Silverstone is an adult is it okay to think she is hot? Am I officially not "robbing the cradle" anymore? Thank you.

Alicia has been in several teen targeted movies that ran in the 90's including Clueless, The Crush, and Batman and Robin (who knew a rubber batsuit could look so good?)

Like most, I began drooling over Alicia when she debuted in the Aerosmith video "Cryin'" There was just something about her badass attitude I enjoyed, and that little crooked smile/smirk didn't hurt either!

Alicia silverstone crying by Aerosmith @ Yahoo! Video

Now a beautiful woman, Alicia spends a lot of her time speaking on behalf of PETA and trumpeting the joys of being vegetarian.

With this kind of promotion and testimonial, the meat council must be shaking in their bloody boots.

Broadway Monday

2009-08-24T05:17:00.002-04:00

Good Morning Everyone!
I am fresh off a plane and honestly have not had time to write today's Broadway Monday because I was too busy living Broadway Thursday-Sunday!
For those of you worried if the Great White Way is doing okay during this oppressively hot summer of economic recession the answer is YES! The streets and theatres were packed and patrons were having a great time! New York City is definitely doing it's part to help us all recover!
Broadway Monday will be back next week!
Thanks for checking in!

math geeks, this is for you

2009-08-20T05:15:00.001-04:00

insatiable need for awesome vegan cupcakes

AAA hotel special for my favorite hotel with a view (seriously couldn't beat this with a stick)

the premature closing of "9 to 5" on Broadway

the urge to see "Next to Normal" again and try to stay in my seat the whole time (I can do it!)

cashing in of frequent flyer miles for free round-trip tickets

Yep, we're going to New York tonight for two days.

Have a great weekend!

Wowee Wednesday

2009-08-19T06:04:00.000-04:00

Joan Jett

Oh Joan...the hours I spent staring at this album cover...intrigued by your "bad girl" vibe, tough-as-nails smirk, and "I-don't-give-a-shit" attitude. In some ways you formed the aura for my teenage years.

OK, so I wasn't a bad girl, tough-as-nails, and I actually gave a shit, but I could at least pretend and hope a little when Joan was involved.

I'm quite sure my affinity for hot women playing electric guitars started right here! Let's be honest, acoustic guitars are nice, but a girl wielding an electric axe is just hot. Joan Jett wielding and electric guitar is hot AND cool!

Currently in production is the new film "The Runaways" which chronicles the rise and fall of The Runaways, the band that first introduced us to Joan and rocked the music world as the first successful female rock band. Talk about badass confidence! It will be interesting to see how this is replayed on the big screen:

Who knew that at nearly 50 Joan Jett would look this good? Holy smokes! I guess that's what vegetarian, big-D Democratic living will do for you! That, and I'm sure still rocking it out harder than ever doesn't hurt either! Whatever it is, keep doing it Joan! My 14-yr-old self is still yearning to be a badass!

2009-08-18T08:32:00.003-04:00

Dying sucks. No great revelation there. People die all the time and it's sad, but there is something extra sad when an animal dies. Maybe I feel that way because one of my best relationships is with my dog.
We spend most of our week dealing with humans, but on Fridays we get to care for animals and it is our favorite day. Our animal patients are appreciative, responsive and compliant. Plus, they are always happy to see us.
Two separate phone calls yesterday delivered the news that we had lost two patients very unexpectedly and tragically. It's like we lost our own dogs. There are three parents waking up this morning to quiet houses very sad, and very lost.
The space and loss left by the passing of a pet is directly proportional to the joy they bring us daily. It just stinks that after all that joy, is so much pain and sadness.

Broadway Monday

2009-08-17T04:48:00.001-04:00

In the Next Room (or the vibrator play)

In the Next Room (or the vibrator play) illuminates the lives of six lonely people seeking relief from a local doctor—but, despite his expertise with a strange new technology, all they really need is intimacy. It’s a tender tale that takes place in the twilight of the Victorian age, an elegant comedy lit by unexpected sparks from the approaching era of electricity, equality, science and sexuality.

So. A play about vibrators. Hmmm..how do I feel about that... AWESOME!!!!

There is great buzz about this play making it's way to Broadway this year. I can only assume the houses will be full of curious women and men who can't escape the pull of the title. I mean really. I'll go see it simply from the curiosity standpoint! The second thing that intrigues me about this show is that it's not set in the modern day as one would expect. It's set in the 19th century when people didn't talk about sex much less pleasuring oneself! I adore the juxtaposition of the topic versus the laced-up stodgy era in which it's taking place. Oh! Did I mention there is a little lesbian/girl-crush action sprinkled in for good measure?!

The characters reveal their inadequacies in both relationships and knowledge of their bodies and in the process come to terms with their own shortcomings and narrow-mindedness. I said this was a period piece, right? Right. I can already see the time traveling parallels being drawn.

I think it is an interesting presentation twist on a common topic and may very well be the vehicle that propels playwright Sarah Ruhl a bit closer to the stratosphere.

In the Next Room (or the vibrator play) opens on Broadway at the Lyceum Theatre at Lincoln Center. Run time is scheduled for November 19, 2009-January 10, 2010.

fucking sarah palin....

2009-08-13T15:38:00.010-04:00

I'm so frustrated about the health care debate, or lack thereof. I should say instead that a debate on health care is trying to occur but some loudmouthed, fear mongering, flag-waving nationalists are hijacking the effort.
I follow a few politicos on Twitter and have been keeping up with how their town hall meetings have been going in the last few weeks. It seems to me that the few minutes of outrage (fake or otherwise) is surpassing and overshadowing the progress that is being made during these efforts. Poor Claire McCaskill from Missouri. Prior to her town hall this week I know she was trying to diffuse any possible ruffles by speaking in terms that were extremely inclusive and giving the benefit of the doubt to the rabble rousers. Her efforts were in vain, and the few minutes of turmoil at her meeting were promptly featured on the news. You can feel the frustration in her post to tumblr: "I'm sad that way too much time has been spent on those 3 minutes and not enough time on the other 117minutes."
I think that is how most of us feel. The squeaky wheel needs to shut up. If the squeaky wheel had a valid, logical argument then okay! squeak away, but it doesn't and therefore should be banished to the junkyard. When squeaky wheel has a real squeak it may come back. Okay..done with the wheel analogy.
And then there is Charles Grassley from Iowa who from one side of his face supports and helped craft the bill, and from the other side of his hypocritical face he says this:

He is even using the very words that the president used in his own town hall meeting earlier this week. Unconscionable and reckless.
Grassley's comments came ballsilly (yes I said it) AFTER Obama held his own town hall meeting refuting the "death panel" claims stirred up by that piece of crap that we just can't get off our shoe, Sarah Palin:
"Let me just be specific about some things that I've been hearing lately that we just need to dispose of here. The rumor that's been circulating a lot lately is this idea that somehow the House of Representatives voted for "death panels" that will basically pull the plug on grandma because we've decided that we don't -- it's too expensive to let her live anymore. And there are various -- there are some variations on this theme.
It turns out that I guess this arose out of a provision in one of the House bills that allowed Medicare to reimburse people for consultations about end-of-life care, setting up living wills, the availability of hospice, et cetera. So the intention of the members of Congress was to give people more information so that they could handle issues of end-of-life care when they're ready, on their own terms. It wasn't forcing anybody to do anything. This is I guess where the rumor came from."

It's times like these that show our intelligence. Dissent is patriotic. Freedom of speech is essential. That speech should however, be informed, intelligent and not based on fear and sour grapes.

Wowee Wednesday

2009-08-12T05:55:00.000-04:00

Sonia Sotomayor

Now that all the wailing and gnashing of teeth is over, let's celebrate this talented, intelligent woman for her accomplishments and recent swearing in as the first female Supreme Court Justice of Latin persuasion.

Hardly even noticed the fact that she got sworn in, huh? Well, with all the euthanasia and death paneling going on, how were you to know?...

While the protesters marched, the media speculated and urged discontent, and the Confirmation Committee grilled (sometimes rudely) the nominee, Sonia sat firmly and confidently answering each question without falter, rattle or spike in her famous "fiery Latin temper". Well done. Way to stay above the fray. Oh! and she did it all with her leg in a cast.

It was delightful to watch the Republican members of the Confirmation Committee blast full throttle towards Sonia only to be met and diffused by a cool calm demeanor and rational, logical, factual responses. Kill 'em with kindness? Ha! How about flabbergast 'em with facts!

Welcome to the bench, Judge! We look forward to your fresh female face, open ears, bright smile, but most of all your brain.

2009-08-11T14:00:00.000-04:00

After watching this ridiculous clip, I have one question: Has anyone checked this lady's birth certificate, because last I heard aliens from space weren't official citizens. I'm just sayin'...

This sign has nothing to do with the video clip other than it is equally as hilarious. Just had to share because, well it's funny in so many ways! This is the brain trust we are up against people!

SPIN ALERT

2009-08-11T07:07:00.006-04:00

It's going to be easy to jump on the "Hillary is such a bitch!" bandwagon today as the media plays this interchange over and over.

Before you make a snap judgment, take into consideration that Hillary was in the Democratic Republic of the Congo a place notorious for it's views on women and rife with sexual violence against women.

Is it any wonder Hill snapped back when a translated question, turned into what her husband, Bill, thought of the topic?

"You want me to tell you what my husband thinks?"

"My husband is not secretary of state, I am"

"If you want my opinion, I will tell you my opinion,"

"I am not going to be channeling my husband."

Taken out of context and forgetting the fact that the poor student's question was translated incorrectly, this interchange looks bad for Hillary to be sure, but it also feeds the Right's need to squash a strong Democratic woman. You know, not at all like the Congo....

edit: 4:21pm Fox News website lead

Broadway Monday

2009-08-10T05:22:00.002-04:00

Broadway Theatres Focus is generally placed on the shows, the stars, the awards, and the money generated eight times a week in the theatres of Broadway. However, there is a little unsung player of every show that usually goes unnoticed and rarely recognized. The truth is: without the house the show would go on, but would be far less impressive and memorable.

Broadway theatres are absolutely stupendous. Each house is unique, beautiful and full of character all her own. Every house has a different shape, facade, lobby, marquee, smell, feel, decor, seat, vibe, energy and story. Stories that morph and change with each new show.

On my first trip to New York I was so excited to realize that Broadway theatres are, for the most part, small. Sure you can look at a seating chart and sort of envision the arrangement, but it's not until you enter those doors and find your way to your seat that you realize how small the theatre really is, and how easy it will be to see the action no matter where you sit. It is an amazing, exciting revelation.

Recently the smallness of one particular theatre worked against me. I featured Next to Normal a couple of month's ago after we saw it in May of this year, but I didn't go into huge detail regarding my actual theatre experience so here goes:

The Booth Theatre is very intimate and just wonderful for an impactful show like Next to Normal. A couple of numbers before intermission, I found myself very overcome with emotion which I had been keeping at bay, but suddenly I needed to be able to catch my breath. I slipped out of my aisle seat and made my way to the lobby very quietly...if I could just make it to the lobby, I thought, I can let out my breath and sob just a little, regain my composure and go back inside. I made it to the lobby door, threw my hands over my face and bawled only to look up and see a lobby full of ushers patiently waiting for intermission to begin, but now staring at me. I felt like a pinball as I turned from wall to door to wall, and back to the door looking for a place to cry all the while trying to deal with the flood of emotion taking over my body. Let me explain further: the lobby is most likely about 30' x 30' with a bar and stairs. Not a big place. Well, here look for yourselves. Here is the door I came out of, the statue I bawled beside, and the bar where an usher kindly fetched me a tissue. Yep, made memories that night for me AND a group of ushers!This time the intimate theatre experience was not on my side. Even after intermission and regaining my composure, I felt like I was the only one in this tiny theatre watching this show. I couldn't get away from the message and meaning the show delivered. Of course most of that event occurred due to an extremely powerful show, but it would never have happened without the theatre. Broadway theatres are an amazing piece of New York architecture that both change yet stay the same as the years go by. Each new show to a theatre brings new life to the building and changes it a little or a lot depending on the show's set of legs. A great example is the beautiful Gershwin Theatre, home to the Tony Award winning musical Wicked, which has completely taken on the feel of the show. Once you hand the usher your ticket, you begin the journey to the Land of Oz.

In contrast, there are theatres that quietly hold the secrets of their show behind a common generic curtain never hinting at what is in store for the warm bodies inhabiting it's velvet seats. Sometimes you never know what's in store for you.

Eight times a week the doors of the theatres close at the same time and silence befalls the little side streets near Times Square. It is such a cool thing to imagine that happening every night at 8pm. I know I'm a dork, but many nights I look at the clock and envision where in the story my favorite shows are at different intervals. There have been times while in NYC when I wasn't seeing a show (it's true) and walking along 44th Street at 8:30 at night thinking to myself "Right now there are shows all over this city in progress. There are people laughing, crying, singing, listening and learning all at the same time." I just love that idea. I just love knowing that all over the city there are people having a great, culturally exhilarating experience. Each experience in a unique beautiful setting, cradling voices telling stories for those who will listen.

City Issue

2009-08-07T05:37:00.000-04:00

Two weekends ago we had to go to Atlanta for continuing ed classes. The rush is on to get all hours done by December which isn't a bad thing except 40 hours of CEU's is a tough order to fill when it's already August, but I digress. So we were in Atlanta for some stimulating (read: dizzying) talks on the brain, the nervous system, neurons firing, bzzzzz..bzzz....and then my brain started to sizzle so I took a break! My lovely didn't have that luxury and stayed, but I ventured to my most favorite spot in Georgia: City Issue (cue angels singing)

If I have already talked about what a great store this is, forgive me and sit back to listen to some more gushing! City Issue is a vintage furniture store that, in my opinion, rivals some we have seen on the west coast as far as quality is concerned and absolutely top notch when it comes to selection and service!

The owner, Jennifer Sams, and her team are extraordinary and make us feel right at home no matter the size of our purchase, or lack thereof. I admit that sometimes I just go in there to look around and satisfy that small, tiny part of me that likes to shop.

So this visit was no different except that the inventory was filled with many pieces fresh from Denmark and in exquisite condition. Other than the aforementioned California, we have had trouble finding good, clean affordable pieces at a dealer. We have seen plenty of so-so, dirty, and overpriced, however.

I started mentally tagging things to consider, and sent pics to my lovely in search of guidance. Long story short, a few hours later we were back down at the store before closing time measuring and negotiating. We have been in the market for new desks for some time and just couldn't decide on the look. The desks we were interested in at this store were snatched up for a movie set the very day before we arrived!

Once in the store, it was obvious that this was the beauty we were meant to take home anyway:

It's a teak partner's desk from Denmark and it is in gorgeous condition! It has a kneehole and drawers on both sides so we can both use it. One great thing about it is we got rid of two desks and have configured the den for just one desk. Yay! More room for dog beds...

wooing us with an in-store demonstration

It can be a regular sized desk when contracted or if you pull out one or both arms it expands to a huge desk with a expansive workspace or dining table that seats eight. Of course, all of this also comes with the neat little features we have come to know and love from Danish design of that era: cute drawers with storage units, and the hideaway arms that seamlessly meld into the smaller footprint. The lines are sleek, the surfaces are smooth with age, and best of all it fits like a glove in our house!

Okay, so enough about the desk. If you know where we live, come on by to drool in person...wear a bibb though, we're talking vintage here.

Our other great find was the beautiful tension rod lamp at the head of the desk in the photo. We have been searching for one of these for awhile now and never feel quite at ease with the quality on the internet. This one is almost mint condition and perfectly fits our decor! It is a wonderful addition to the collection.

We also picked up a few decorative pieces that look fabulous as well:

The beginning of our Dansk peppermill collection by Jens Quistgaard

Vintage glass vases

Teak ice bucket also by Jens Quistgaard

So if you are in Atlanta and love vintage furniture, look no further than City Issue. Jennifer will hook you up!

fun with the nutwings

2009-08-06T05:55:00.001-04:00

Make sure you print yours today!
Oooh! Don't forget to carry it in a baggy! And dust off your tinfoil hat too!

Wowee Wednesday

2009-08-05T06:02:00.001-04:00

Jane Fonda

You know how we sometimes just assume someone is really cool, smart, fashionable and just an all-around good person, but they kind of quietly stay in the background of the scene? That's kind of how Jane Fonda has always been for me---until recently. By the way, how gorgeous is this first picture?

I started paying closer attention to Jane this year because she was starring in the Broadway play "33 Variations" She also pioneered the role of Judy Bernly in the movie "9 to 5" which just so happens to be the role my bff, Stephanie J. Block, pioneered on Broadway this year. I know! Great coincidence!

Jane became and continues to be a polarizing figure to a large portion of our population due to her very public opposition to the Vietnam War. Here in the south, (cue banjos) we still see negative comments on bumper stickers and clothing, especially during an election cycle. Jane had a little surge in negative popularity during John Kerry's run for president as she got swept up in the Swift Boat attacks which paired the two and questioned their patriotism. Have you seen Barbarella? Maybe you should do a little Oggling..I mean Googleing and see what you are missing. hint: a lot...you are missing a lot. Look at this form! Did you know that she made 23 workout videos? Her first release Jane Fonda's Workout sold over 17 million copies. Just like she has always done, Jane Fonda keeps up with the times, even in the technilogical Tilt-A-Whirl of today. Never one to let time or trends pass her by, Jane has an incredible website and blog, Facebook page, and my favorite, her Twitter account.
Jane is an actress, activist, author, instructor, and one of the most benevolent personalities in Hollywood. It is a joy to watch her weave in and out of the mainstream fabric and continue to make a difference, a change, and best of all still stir emotions after all these years. Look at that conviction and pride in her cause!

Think this is a great pic? Me too! I like it so much that I will be donning it soon via an awesome t-shirt found on her website. No, I will not be purchasing the clutch, Bren! My goal is to be half this cool when I am 71!

2009-08-04T16:04:00.003-04:00

HELL YEAH!

2009-08-04T06:05:00.000-04:00

Like I need another reason to adore Heather Armstrong....

forbidden love from dooce on Vimeo.

The credits are my favorite...comedy gold people, comedy gold.

taking a break

2009-08-03T05:24:00.002-04:00

To be perfectly honest, I'm mad at Broadway
today so there won't be a post.
Don't worry, I'm sure I'll get over it.

intelligent perspective

2009-07-31T06:54:00.004-04:00

For an intelligent perspective, beer or sans beer, read this offering from Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

It's nice to hear some thoughtful calm, words during a week filled with conjecture

and finger-pointing.

2009-07-30T06:04:00.005-04:00

Millions of Americans are waiting (and dying) for health care reform. So what would any responsible group of leaders charged and directed personally by the President do to make sure this reform takes place? Oh yeah...go on vacation.

Nice one, Reid. Can't rally the troops even in a majority.
Also, don't worry about Ted Kennedy's life long passion being realized. I'm sure his health will hold out another month while you guys take a vacay.
Go on grab your water wings and towels. We'll be waiting right here.

Wowee Wednesday

2009-07-29T05:18:00.009-04:00

Samantha Brown If you're a geek like me, watching TV consists of a healthy dose of HGTV, G4TV, and anything including Travel Channel's Samantha Brown!

I mean what could be better than traveling to distant locales with a cute blonde? (No offense to my lovely!) When you travel with Sam you stay in great hotels, never wait in line, have private tours of cool events, and did I say all with a cute blonde? That's right! This girl is like a traveling Rachel Ray without all the "Yummo!" every five seconds! Perfect, no?

I must say that Travel Channel makes it very easy to keep up with/travel alongside Sam Brown too. There are a number of ways to keep up with her and visit all sorts of places, all in the span of a dinner in front of the telly. Heck, I don't even have to get frisked by the TSA at the airport!

This girl has a blog, a Facebook page, Twitter account...

You got questions? Sam's got answers!

You want Wowee wallpaper? Can do! You're welcome! I really do try to be a full service blog.

Broadway Monday

2009-07-27T05:19:00.007-04:00

Superior Donuts Arthur Przybyszewski owns a decrepit donut shop in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago. Franco Wicks, a black teenager who is his only employee, wants to change the shop for the better. This provocative comedy, set in the heart of one of Chicago's most diverse communities, explores the challenges of embracing the past and the redemptive power of friendship.
This week's feature is a preview of sorts since this play will not open on Broadway until October. But because writer Tracy Lett's is still fresh off the astounding success of August: Osage County, I thought it might be nice to get ready for his next venture with a short peak at this new play. Donuts has been playing/previewing out of town at the Steppenwolf Theatre in Chicago to rave reviews and much anticipation in New York. Take a look at this short piece which gives a great feel for the new piece.

Superior Donuts will open October 1, 2009 at the Music Box Theatre in New York with previews beginning September 16, 2009.

2009-07-25T10:00:00.001-04:00

60 Americans per day die due to lack of healthcare. What if a terrorist group were killing 60 Americans per day?
We'd have marches and car flags and t shirts and ribbons...
Instead, we have the Republican party interested in "breaking the president" but not helping it's own citizens.

2009-07-24T17:54:00.001-04:00

It's been a good day!

One More Day!

2009-07-23T05:44:00.004-04:00

My lovely and I are headed out this afternoon for a weekend of haircuts, classes and burritos.

It's continuing ed time, so our first stop is going back to Marietta and getting a little food for the brain in between food for the belly-- burritos from Willy's! Yahoo! First stop, however is to 313 Salon so they can take care of these problems. Oh my lord the hair....11 weeks unacceptable!

Will be tweeting, and maybe even posting. Have a good weekend!

Wowee Wednesday

2009-07-22T05:27:00.006-04:00

Walter Cronkite, 1916-2009I grew up watching my parents and grandparents watch the news. There were only a couple of channels to choose from at the time, so Walter Cronkite was a fixture in either black and white or color. When I was small and at my grandparents house, Walter reminded me of my grandfather. If I saw him on at my house in color, he reminded me of Captain Kangaroo. Isn't it funny what our kid brains do?

As an politically aware adult, Walter was a reminder of where journalism came from, and how most of us wish it had remained; pure, honest, sincere, and valid. Modern "news channels" have sensationalized and cheapened our news experience to the point that it's easy to confuse the 6 o'clock nightly news with Entertainment Tonight. We are fed a direct line of news all day long, if we choose to plug in, and that direct access makes what Walter Cronkite did even more special. Each night he brought a nation together to listen, laugh, celebrate, mourn, and think. It is my hope that he will continue to guide and watch over the industry.

After all, Fox News needs a strong guiding hand.

2009-07-21T08:30:00.000-04:00

First of all, so excited for my blogging hero, Heather Armstrong, to have been named #26 in the Forbes Most Influential Women in Media! Pretty impressive and not too shabby for a mom from Salt Lake City.

I must must must shout my outrage, horror, disbelief and overall WTF-edness at how on earth did #13 Kathie Lee Gifford come in above #15 Rachel Maddow? I mean that is just wrong on every front.
Stupid vs. Brainy. Old Hat vs. Cutting Edge. Annoying vs. Adorkable.
I don't think I need to go on.

Broadway Monday

2009-07-20T05:24:00.008-04:00

The Norman Conquests

Three interlocking, but independent comedies show the same story — Norman attempts a tryst with his wife's sister in the family's country home — from three different perspectives: the things that happen in the dining room, the things that happen in the living room and the things that happen in the garden.

This unique spin on what is most likely a somewhat common event is brought to life by the fact that it is viewed by the audience from three different perspectives. Norman's attempts are given life from three vantage points and new details unfold in each setting giving life to the storyline.

Adding to the intrigue for the audience is that you can: see one of the plays, all three of the plays at different showtimes/days, or put your sittin' muscle through it's paces and attend the marathon which runs on Saturdays and Sundays. That's over six hours of theatre goodness in one day starting at 11:30, 3:30 and 8:00. Just enough time in between shows to catch a bite and a cup of coffee. What a genius idea!

The Norman Conquests was written by Alan Ayckbourn and directed by Matthew Warchus. The trilogy was nominated for seven Tony Awards and garnered the statue for Best Revival of a Play.

The Norman Conquests opened at the Circle in the Square Theatre on April 11, 2009 and will close July 29, 2009.

2009-07-18T09:51:00.005-04:00

At any given time you can tune in to this site and feel the love I have for Rachel Maddow. I mean let's be honest---she is awesome.
Last Thursday night on her MSNBC show she proved her awesomeness again by very nicely putting Pat Buchanan in his place as he had yet another case of Racist Tourette's.
Just look at how Rachel takes Uncle Pat's arm and guides him ever so gently into the venue that makes him all tingly inside: bigotry
The segment ran over 10 minutes, but honestly it is pure joy to watch and I won't even mention her adorableness, sigh.

2009-07-17T05:57:00.002-04:00

Update on one of last week's posts:

You'll all be relieved/excited to know that the nut-job church featured in this story has no plans for taking the sign down, in fact, more will be erected featuring more button-pushing topics such as abortion and same-sex marriage. Something tells me I will be linking back to this story a lot.

Wowee Wednesday

2009-07-15T05:40:00.012-04:00

Brooke Shields She has been a part of our celluloid life for a long time, but somewhere during the time we were having lives, gaining/losing weight, and having babies and breakdowns Brooke Shields was doing the same thing... except she got HOT-TER in the process! What the..?!

I have always carried a torch for Brooke, but kept it dialed back to a low flame. I fell in love with her during the Blue Lagoon/Endless Love portion of her career and chalked it up to hormones because let's face it, I was an adolescent who was struggling with the gay and she was bee-yoo-tee-ful!

No longer struggling with the gay, I still think Brooke is stunning, and last week during the memorial for Michael Jackson, I fell in love all over again as this beautiful woman shared her love and grief with all of us, again making that connection that endeared us so many years ago to both her and Michael. She was touching, and sincere, and honest, and simply wow.

Broadway Monday

2009-07-13T05:15:00.011-04:00

My Fair Lady

Professor Henry Higgins made a bet that if he could get a poor girl who sells flowers, to speak the English language properly, she would fit into the higher class. Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl, takes speech lessons from Higgins so that she can pass as a lady. Higgins takes credit for Eliza's success, but Eliza soon realizes that she can now be independent and does not need him.

My Fair Lady is a musical based upon George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion and with book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe. In 1956, My Fair Lady was a smashing success, becoming the longest running musical production in theatre history. It immediately spawned a London production, a popular film version, numerous revivals, and local/regional theatre productions.

The original cast featured Rex Harrison and Julie Andrews in the lead roles. Both stars went on to reprise their roles in the West End production which opened in 1958 and ran for 2281 performances.

It was again Harrison in the role of Higgins as the 1964 film version hit the screen, but this time Audrey Hepburn took on the role of Eliza, while Julie Andrews went on to win the Oscar for Best Actress that year for Mary Poppins.

My Fair Lady opened March 15, 1956 at the Mark Hellinger Theatre and ran for 2717 performances. Tony Awards showered the production with Best Musical, Best Actor, Best Direction, Best Conductor, Best Scenic Design and Best Costume Design.

2009-07-11T19:27:00.004-04:00

Want to get good and pissed off at the Righties? Uhm yea, like you need a reason? Here is a good one. Oh, but first you may want to sit down, and have your blood pressure meds on the ready.
Pathetic.
Disgusting.
Sad.
Did I say pathetic already?

2009-07-11T06:00:00.001-04:00

This story encapsulates my reasons for loving where I live, and at the same time hanging my head in shame.
Most of the time I am bathed in the love and acceptance of our town and how incredibly open and inclusive we can be to everyone.
Then there are times when I just think we will never pull ourselves up from the muck of fundamentalism.

I just keep thinking, if Gainesville, Florida can't get it right, who ever will?

I had a link to an awesome video on this story and how great Gainesville residents can be, but the story has been taken down. All that remains is the bickering between sides on a rickety bulletin board. Sorry. Watch the one above for a good idea of what is going on.

2009-07-09T18:00:00.000-04:00

This week's Time Magazine cover says:

"Unfaithfully Yours

Infidelity is eroding our most sacred institution. How to make marriage matter again."

Hmmm...all this time I thought it was the gays that were eroding marriage. Isn't that interesting. So it's infidelity, huh?

I guess this means that I can go ahead and make my 16-year-monogamous-lesbian relationship legal now and get all those great benefits, right?

Wowee Wednesday

2009-07-08T05:32:00.007-04:00

Michael Jackson Fans

Yesterday fans of Michael Jackson embodied the very message the entertainer fought to deliver most of his career. We are one. We are a family. We are the world.

It was amazing to see the many tributes during the memorial yesterday, but the most amazing thing to me was seeing footage from around the world as fans joined hands, swayed, sang and together said goodbye to the greatest entertainer of our generation. It was heartbreaking and beautiful and gave me hope that we all might carry Michael's message a little closer and act on it a little more often.

2009-07-07T11:16:00.003-04:00

A few days ago I tweeted this:
"The FL Turnpike billboards have been hijacked by right wing-nuts. Hell, damnation, abortion scare tactics and conspiracy theories."
I was immediately honored by a follow from these guys.
Should I be worried? Scared? Looking over my shoulder? Or what I really am...laughing hysterically! Now to just get the Pope to follow....

Broadway Monday

2009-07-06T09:33:00.000-04:00

The Pajama Game The Pajama Game is set in the Sleep-Tite Pajama Factory during a strenuous labor negotiation. At the musical's center is the simmering attraction between a handsome new manager and a lovely union representative. But their budding romance is threatened by the impending strike.

The original production of this famous show starred a trio of Broadway greats in John Raitt, Janis Paige, and Eddie Foy. Standard musical fare of "Hey There" and "Hernando's Hideaway" are melodies that still linger on radios, elevators, and supermarkets! Talk about staying power! The original production opened in May 1954, ran for 1,063 performances, and won the Tony for Best Musical and Best Choreography by Bob Fossee.

In 1973 and 2006 it was revived by the Roundabout Theatre Company. The latter production featured the marquee power of Harry Connick Jr. and Kelli O'Hara. The combination of Harry and Kelli's voices rivaled, if not surpassed, the original recordings in depth, richness, and all out sublime ear candy!

The revival production opened at the American Airlines Theatre, ran a limited engagement of 129 performances, and garnered the Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical and Best Choreography by Kathleen Marshall. The revival also boasted three new songs written by Richard Adler who penned the original score.

2009-07-02T05:27:00.000-04:00

Is it me, or does this sound like sour grapes? Sore losers? Big cry babies? Oh that's right, we are talking about Faux News after all.

Wowee Wednesday

2009-07-01T05:53:00.002-04:00

Michael Jackson Many years ago when his personal life started to eclipse his professional life, I decided that I wanted to remember the wonderful memories I had of Michael Jackson before he became the punchline of jokes and a defendant in court. So it seems fitting that my Wowee Wednesday will celebrate the Michael Jackson that changed music and video for my generation.

One of my first LP's as a teenager was "Off the Wall" which of course was Michael's solo venture and it gave us only a taste of what was to come. Many argue that this release was equally as important as "Thriller". Take a look at the track list and you may feel the same. By the time "Thriller" was released most of America was hooked, or at least intrigued, and the awesome career of the cute little frontman of The Jackson 5 had been launched.

We all had Michael wannabees in high school. I remember everything from the skinny black guy who really could have been a double, to the awkward white kid who just couldn't leave that single white glove at home. Admit it....at least once you've tried the dance steps and belted your best "Billie Jean". At one time we were all a little enamoured. Back before the media ruined everything with a "Sneak Peek" at a world premier, we sat with mouths agape as Michael moonwalked across the stage at the Motown 25 celebration. Watching that was a wonderful surprise moment in television history. It was Michael at his best. The next day at school the cafeteria was filled with kids practicing the famous moves. I imagine high schools across America had similar scenes.

The stir that Michael made with that Motown performance was nothing compared to the elated eruption after the groundbreaking "Thriller" video premiered. At the top of every hour for the entire day, MTV played "Thriller" and it was the most awesome thing ever. Just think of it: 15 minutes of entertainment followed by 45 minutes to recuperate, practice dance moves, and eat some Cheetos or a Steak-umm sandwhich. Heaven.
I'd love to talk to our former teachers and find out just how manageable we all were the next day!
One of my favorite features Michael did was a 3D movie called "Captain EO" that played at Disney's Epcot. It was, at the time, the best 3D venture available and well worth the wait time in line. It was groundbreaking as well, just like everything Michael lent his name and expertise to. These are just a few of my memories and I have played them over in my mind during the past week. Things may have gone awry personally, his life became a bit of a circus, and he is mocked endlessly for his cosmetic choices, but behind all that is the boy who altered our musical landscape for the good. Nothing can change that.

Thank you, Michael.

2009-06-30T16:18:00.000-04:00

Yea, Dick who's awful idea was it to let the Iraqis take over their own country? Stupid idea guys.

I'm a dork part II

2009-06-30T12:16:00.001-04:00

Yep, "friends" with my mayor. You know.

Broadway Monday

2009-06-29T05:26:00.001-04:00

Twelfth Night

Mistaken identity, wild characters and unusual courtships are all combined in one of Shakespeare's best-loved comedies. A time-honored story of cross-dressing and mistaken identity, all in the name of love.

This short summer run is part of the Shakespeare in the Park tradition and boasts a stellar and familiar cast. Ann Hathaway (making her public theatre debut), Tony winners Audra McDonald and Julie White, Raul Esparza, and Hamish Linklater are just a few of the cast of 26+ who grace the grassy stage and deliver one of William Shakespeare's most beloved plays. Twelfth Night runs at the Delacorte Theatre in Central Park from June 10-July 12, 2009

Tickets are FREE. Yes, FREE. Get thee to the Delacorte Theatre box office for distribution each day at 1pm. Shows are Tuesday-Sunday at 8pm. Ugh, I wish I lived in NYC.

2009-06-28T09:29:00.004-04:00

Has anyone noticed that I am failing horribly at my "Trying to Read a Book a Month" venture?
Good. Move along. Nothing to see here.

2009-06-26T05:20:00.000-04:00

Thank you, Michael.

2009-06-24T05:54:00.006-04:00

Hi Folks!

Wowee Wednesday will be postponed for this week. Having computer difficulties and I just can't manage to wrangle a post out of another computer that's being sassy at the moment. I just decided to give in and come back with a vengeance next week. Thanks for the patience. I'll be tweeting frustratedly if you'd like to follow. Have a good one!

**By the way, does this logo bring back bad memories of having your favorite show interuppted? I can still hear the moans ripple through the house as The Bionic Woman is brought to a screeching halt at a pivotal moment. Gah!

Broadway Monday

2009-06-22T05:18:00.011-04:00

Waiting for Godot

Two tramps wait for an enigmatic figure in a world where time, place, and memory are blurred and meaning is where you find it. The masterpiece of existentialism. Waiting for Godot follows two days in the loves of a pair of men as they wait expectantly and unsuccessfully for someone named Godot to arrive. Although they claim him as an acquaintance, in fact they hardly knew him and eventually admit they wouldn't recognize him if he were to come up to them on the street. The pair busy themselves by singing, playing games, dancing, laughing, arguing, and even weighing the option of committing suicide.

Waiting for Godot was written by Samuel Beckett, originally entitled, "En attendant Godot" it was translated to English from French and premiered January 5, 1953. It has graced stages across the world and never fails to garner interpretation and dissection from a psychological and political standpoint. It seems everyone has their own idea of what this play is really about. That is one of the reasons it is also one of the most famous plays in history and can be seen everywhere from regional theatre to the Broadway stage.

Waiting for Godot has currently been revived on Broadway at Studio 54 and stars Nathan Lane, Bill Irwin, John Goodman, and John Glover. This revival opened April 30, 2009 and will close July 12, 2009 with five performances weekly.

2009-06-19T05:39:00.006-04:00

Sailing on the Rivership Romance today. Well, I'm thinking there won't be much romance since I will be doing it with my lovely (ok romantic),10 of my family members, and any other elderly church group that could wrangle a carpool to the docks. (waawahh. romance gone.)

It's my grandma's birthday, and most of you may not know this, but I love me some Grandma!!! So it's off to cruise the St. John's River for three hours via the Rivership Romance!

Happy Birthday, Margie! You always make me feel like your favorite, and you're most definitely mine!

Hey! Here's a sneak peak of where my hair color is quickly dashing!

2009-06-18T15:36:00.003-04:00

Forgive me for being a couple of days late on this, but it is still in the news and timely nonetheless.

Now, please forgive me for making this face as I read Jake Tapper's CliffsNotes version of all the hubub.

I'm a dork and I'm okay with that!

2009-06-18T05:22:00.004-04:00

Do you know anyone else who is more proud and excited that

the Mayor is following her on Twitter?

Pegeen Hanrahan totally made my day yesterday!

Me plus 110 other insightful Gainesvillians. Not too shabby. Madame Mayor is actually a great tweeter! Some funny stuff coming out of that pol brain!

I know it's hard to read...shut up! I don't have the 3GS yet!

Wowee Wednesday

2009-06-17T05:30:00.007-04:00

Cristiane Amanpour

I think Cristiane Amanpour is just dandy.

She is poised, smart, confident, and I feel, trustworthy. I know it sounds odd, but I feel a bit smarter having watched any package she delivers, no matter the topic.

Cristiane has been an international correspondent for 18 years. Name a major international crisis and she has been there delivering the in depth facts and information most journalists gloss over or skip all together.

Christiane began as an entry-level assistant at CNN in 1983 and worked her way up to international correspondent in 1990. She has covered wars, famines, genocides, and natural disasters around the world. Her name has become synonymous with exclusive in-depth interviews with leaders from Europe, the Middle East and Africa.

Cristiane is a decorated journalist around the world having garnered Emmys, Peabodys, an Edward R. Murrow Award, as well as six honorary degrees from various distinguished universities worldwide. In 2007, Amanpour was made a Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire, by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II for her "highly distinguished, innovative contribution" to the field of journalism.

2009-06-16T18:48:00.002-04:00

Goody! Been looking forward to getting the skinny on Obama's Plan for Gay Rights.

Broadway Monday

2009-06-15T05:14:00.013-04:00

The Philanthropic Hearts on Broadway

Today's feature is a bit different in that I would like to bring attention to the giving and loving hearts of the Broadway community. Any given month it is easy to find a number of benefits being presented for various causes starring Broadway talents devoting and volunteering themselves on their precious one day off. You may remember my post earlier this year when I was fortunate enough to attend "Defying Inequality" a benefit for marriage equality. The spirit that embodied that show is the same attitude of giving that happens many times during the year for a variety of causes and celebrations.

In the next week, the past and present stars of Broadway pull out all the stops in a number of benefits and celebrations throughout the city. Here are just a few:

Nothing Like A Dame at New World Stages
The "all-new" Nothing Like a Dame concert, billed as "an intimate benefit concert event for The Phyllis Newman Women's Health Initiative," plays Off-Broadway's New World Stages June 15 at 7:30 PM.
The starry "Dames" include Tony Award winners Betty Buckley, Audra McDonald and Bebe Neuwirth; three-time Tony nominee Kelli O'Hara; 9 to 5 star Stephanie J. Block; and original Annie, Andrea McArdle. Guys and Dolls' Nick Adams is also part of the evening.
(I love that our friend Nick is the only guy performing in the "dame" concert!)
For tickets, priced $75, $150 and $250, call (212) 221-7300, ext. 133. Visit www.actorsfund.org for more information. New World Stages is located in Manhattan at 340 West 50th Street, between 8th and 9th Avenues.

Come Rain or Come Shine: Celebrating the Songs of Johnny Mercer
Come Rain or Come Shine: Celebrating the Songs of Johnny Mercer is the title of the June 15 concert to benefit Greenwich House Music School.
The 8 PM concert at Off-Broadway's Cherry Lane Theatre boasts the talents of Tony Award winner Christine Ebersole as well as Klea Blackhurst, Jim Caruso, Billy Stritch and jazz violinist Aaron Weinstein.
All proceeds from the event benefit Greenwich House Music School's music education programs and assist with facility upgrades.
Tickets, priced $75, $100 and $250 (includes post-event champagne reception with the artists), will go on sale May 15 by calling (212) 991-0003, ext. 403. Sponsorships are also available by visiting www.greenwichhouse.org/rainorshine or by calling (212) 991-0003, ext. 400.

Theodore Bikel: The First 85 Years
Theodore Bikel: The First 85 Years celebrates the actor's rich career devoted to art and activism June 15 at Carnegie Hall.
The 7:30 PM concert in the Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage boasts the talents of emcee Alan Alda, Arlo Guthrie, Noel Paul Stookey and Peter Yarrow, Tom Paxton, Susan Werner, David Amram, Judy Kaye, Beyond the Pale, Artie Butler, Patricia Conolly, David Krakauer, Hankus Netsky, Sarah Horowitz, Serendipity 4 (Shura Lipovsky, Merima Kljuco, Tamara Brooks and Bikel) and Michael Wex.
Proceeds benefit Juvenile Law Center, which works to protect children's rights and interests in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems.
For tickets, priced $30-$500, visit www.jlc.org./bikel. Carnegie Hall, Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage is located at 57th Street and Seventh Avenue in New York City.

Broadway Bares 19.0 "CLICK IT!"
Broadway's hottest boiz are grabbing their hard drives and the grlz are ready to play with some brand new software for what is sure to be a Broadway Bares that will fry more than your mother board. BROADWAY BARES 19.0 will have over 200 of Broadway's hottest dancers bringing the information superhighway to life and will surely have all of New York a"twitter."
BROADWAY BARES 19.0 "CLICK IT!" will be held on Sunday, June 21 with two performances only (9:30 PM & Midnight) at Roseland Ballroom (239 West 52nd Street). BROADWAY BARES 19.0 "CLICK IT!" is produced by and benefits Broadway Cares/ Equity Fights AIDS.
This organization is probably the best know in the Broadway community for fundraising as they tirelessly work all year round to raise money and awareness for AIDS. It's hard to find an event or feature that isn't connected to Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. It's amazing.

2009-06-11T05:57:00.003-04:00

We leave for Chicago tonight until Sunday. Taking my lovely on a date to see Topol (original Tevye) in "Fiddler on the Roof" Should be fun and exciting! Second row seats, orchestra! Looking forward to being in that beautiful city again and soak up the wonderful architecture and culture. Will be sending tweets and Twitpics and hopefully will have some real pics to post upon our return! Have a great weekend everybody!

Wowee Wednesday

2009-06-10T06:23:00.000-04:00

Alice Ripley I could only think of one person to be this week's Wowee, and what a week this girl has had! Alice Ripley is still fresh off a much deserved Tony win for her portrayal of bipolar Diana Goodman in Broadway's Next to Normal.

Alice's first Tony nomination came in 1997 for her role as Violet Hilton, in Sideshow which told the story of conjoined twins. Take a look at this stunning Tony performance:

I had the opportunity to speak with Alice after a matinee when I was in the city last month. Her performance provided me with an unavoidable urge to thank her for the stunning work she is doing in this show. I walked away amazed at what a wonderfully quirky, talented, devoted, genius, person she is. It's the first time I've been asked by a celebrity to be their friend on Facebook! Weird, but of course I did it anyway because I'm curious like that. Totally worth it too! I'm convinced that Alice's work in Next to Normal is making a difference and touching lives daily.

Alice has also appeared in Tommy, and The Rocky Horror Show, on Broadway as well as dabbling in art, punk rock, standards and solo recordings. Alice's music is featured in today's sidebar but can also be heard in the lobby of our chiropractic office daily!

2009 Tony Awards performance:

And now from the Department of Duh...

2009-06-09T06:30:00.002-04:00

There have been so many predictable headlines hitting me in the brain today, I just had to share. Hit the link to see the real absurdity. I made up my own headlines here for fun. What? I'm bored waiting for the thunderstorm to pass.

A Match Made in Heaven

His Middle Name Ain't Humble, It's Kanye If You're Nasty

He Just Didn't Like the Shade

Yawn

and this late entry

gasp!

Broadway Monday

2009-06-08T05:47:00.000-04:00

Next to Normal A typical American family deals with love and loss as one of its members struggles with her illness. Having seen this show recently, I'm not sure the synopsis above, found in the promo material, really explains much about the show, but then I have no idea how you explain this show in a complete fashion let alone a couple of sentences. I'm still finding amazing correlations and insights a full month after having been so honored to have been in the Booth Theatre last month.

Diana, Dan, Gabe, and Natalie are the typical American family full of love and hope, fear and dysfunction. This brilliant show rips the blinders off the topic of bipolar disorder and thrusts you headlong into how this family deals with life events that change them forever. Change is hard and not always good.

Brian Yorkey, writer and lyricist and Tom Kitt, composer have been on a 10-year development cycle with this show and have honed it to it's current perfect state. The 11 Tony Awards nominations bestowed on it are proof. The music is catchy, poignant, heartbreaking, and haunting. I couldn't wait to get my copy of the recording and haven't listened to anything else all month. It truly is a work of art.

Silently making it's indelible impression on the audience is the three-tiered stage that houses the orchestra and doubles as the family's home. Absolutely incredible and brilliant use of the small stage in the Booth Theatre. Stunning. The brilliant and quirky Alice Ripley plays mother/wife Diana who is at the heart of the story and tells it with such passion and strength that I honestly don't know how they will replace her when her run is over. She is that good. Tony buzz has her as the favorite for Best Lead Actress in a Musical. My fingers are crossed. I could go on and on...and I most likely will in another post because this show has absolutely changed my understanding and made me think..hard. You can see a great interview and clips from the show here or visit the official site which is what made me rush to get tickets.
Next to Normal opened April 15, 2009 is currently playing at the Booth Theatre on an open-ended run.

____________________________________

This just in!

Next to Normal received three Tony Awards last night! Wins for Best Orchestration and Best Score are being celebrated as well as Best Actress in a Musical for the amazing Alice Ripley! Congrats to all!

2009-06-05T14:00:00.001-04:00

My lovely and I got our knickers in a twist Tuesday morning following game one of the Women's College World Series and we decided to tell everyone about it. Well, at least those

that read The Gainesville Sun.

Just take a look at the letters to the editor we fired off to both the paper and the newscaster who inspired them:

Chose your words wisely, Astengo
I can't help but wonder how Urban Meyer or Billy Donovan would feel had TV20's "talent" chosen to use the phrase "stinking it up on the national stage" upon their first visits to the National Championships.
Hank Astengo chose those hurtful words on the June 2nd broadcast following game one of the Women's Championship World Series.
I'm positive that words would have been chosen more wisely had he been talking about the men's programs. Once again, The Boys Club chose to perpetuate a negative attitude instead of encouragement or support for the women's program.
Xoxixtx Xwxrxx,*
Gainesville

Disrespectful of women's sports
Our Lady Gator softball team is in the Women's College World Series, and Hank Astengo from TV20 chose this statement to close his piece on June 2, at 6:30 a.m. about the women's softball team's performance the night before in game one: "Florida, stinking it up on the national stage".
I don't think that I have to tell you how crushing a comment that was to the players and the fans who stand by the team no matter how they play.
Jxnxixfxr Xxxxx, *
Gainesville

The paper edited/chopped up our original letters which were a bit longer and far more pointed and disappointed in the sportscaster, but the point is that the entire town knows our feelings! The sportscaster also replied to us via email. Don't be impressed. He copied an pasted the same response to both of us. Classy.

*identities have been altered to protect the outspoken

2009-06-05T05:26:00.003-04:00

I think this is the most hysterical/genius thing I've seen in a long time!

I somehow can't imagine my big dogs squatting on this little pad, but for people who live in big cities with those tiny teeny little dogs, this seems to be a good solution. You try finding a green patch in Harlem!

Wowee Wednesday

2009-06-03T05:29:00.005-04:00

Gator Women's Softball

Gainesville has been held captive by the Women College World Series for the last two weeks and the phenomenal 2009 Lady Gators are the reason! We had a stellar, record-breaking year that culminated in a trip to the championship game. In the end, the Washington Huskies won the series crown with the final game score of 3-2. Although the girls will leave with only a faint taste of victory, the exposure and momentum created by their trip to the 'ship will not soon be forgotten.

Congratulations girls!

You were fabulous!

droppin' like it's hawt

2009-06-02T07:37:00.006-04:00

Today's the day!

Get thee to your store or website and pick up this awesome solo venture!

Hard copy or digital, gives your ears a treat!

We have been playing it in the office since it dropped digitally, and it is great!

Yay! Steph! So proud of our little sister!

Oh! The song playing today is the one Steph sang at the benefit Defying Inequality earlier this year in NYC. It's beautifully included on the cd.

Absolutely phenomenal support from this incredible woman!

Broadway Monday

2009-06-01T05:15:00.009-04:00

Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical

A glamorous Sydney-based performance troupe, made up of two drag queens and a transsexual, takes their show across the Australian outback. The group is hired to perform a drag show in a remote part of the Australian desert. They board a lavender bus and head to the locale, but the trip does not go according to plan.

We're taking it across the pond for this week's Broadway Monday! London's West End has it's own group of theatres and shows that run in a similar fashion to the Great White Way, so I thought it would be nice to feature one of their new additions.

Priscilla is based on the 1995 film of the same name which has received a cult-like status around the world, so it will be interesting to see if the stage version can keep up with it's big sister.

So far the reviews are dreadful, and the claws are out in the London press, but it doesn't seem to be dampening the audience's approval and enthusiasm. I mean how can you resist a good time that includes a room full of drag queens in spectacular costumes and wigs, AND a huge touring bus which transforms onstage nightly?!

Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical opened March 23, 2009 at the Palace Theatre in London and is slated for an open-ended run.

2009-05-28T16:16:00.000-04:00

It's official. I love me some Alec Baldwin.

2009-05-28T05:45:00.004-04:00

Woke up a little crabby today. Went to bed fine, but woke up crabby. What the hell happens overnight to make your mood change one way or another? Has anyone done a study on this? Maybe I'll start that today. I don't have anything going on. See?...there it goes. The sarcasm has already begun and it's not even 6 am. Not a good sign.

Wowee Wednesday

2009-05-27T05:27:00.007-04:00

Gwen Stefani

I saw Gwen on Ellen last week and was reminded of how much I like her. There is just something about a girl who takes charge onstage that is hot to me.

It's not that I am particularly attracted to her looks as much as it is her...um...let's see...her swagger. That's it! Yeah, her swagger! And Gwen swaggers best when she is fronting No Doubt. As the lead singer of this group and it's only female, she swaggers and poses the hell out of that stage, taking charge and daring the crowd to not follow.

Gwen has also managed to forge a very successful solo career, and although I much prefer the music of No Doubt and the persona Gwen sports when in the group, I admit that she has some very catchy tunes that I find irresistible as well. Let's just say that I buy whatever she is selling.

The other attraction for me is that she has figured out a way to balance a successful career and be an involved mother. There's nothing hotter! Readily available are pictures of Gwen, hubby and babies strolling, shopping, and playing in the park.

2009-05-26T10:37:00.001-04:00

Will someone please stop the madness? gross.

stark reminder

2009-05-26T08:30:00.000-04:00

Our local Veterans for Peace reminds us every Memorial Day of those who have fallen in the wars of choice since 2002. Their tribute, running along one of our main roads, displays a tombstone replete with personal information, for each soldier who has given their life in Afghanistan and Iraq. It is a stark necessary reminder of an unnecessary conflict.

My photos are of the road ahead of me and the road behind me. The tribute has run the length of one side of the road, approximately 1/2 mile, and has started up the other side for another 1/2 mile. My hopes are that it won't make it all the way back.

Broadway Monday

2009-05-25T07:33:00.000-04:00

reasons to be pretty Greg’s tight-knit social circle is thrown into turmoil when his off-handed remarks about a female co-worker’s pretty face (and his girlfriend’s lack thereof) get back to said girlfriend. But that’s just the beginning. As their relationship crumbles, their friends are pulled into the fray, and all are forced to confront a sea of deceit, infidelity, and betrayed trust in their journey to answer that oh-so-American question: How much is pretty worth?

reasons to be pretty has been met with critical acclaim and a growing cult following. This Neil LaBute play is not easy on the ears or sensitivities as it opens with an expletive-laden scream- fest that catapults the audience into the fray of a relationship's last breaths.

Eventually the show calms down and the important question of our obsession with physical beauty is addressed. Heart-wrenching realizations and dissolution's of relationships built on sand drive this poignant play.

reasons to be pretty is currently playing at the Lyceum Theatre and is nominated for three Tony Awards next month including Best Actor and Actress in a Play. The photos included in this post are both from the Broadway and Off-Broadway productions.

hullaballoo

2009-05-24T08:48:00.006-04:00

So, I don't watch "Jon & Kate Plus 8" but I can't seem to escape the media frenzy that is surrounding the show and the couple. (I have to look at something while waiting to check out at Target!)
Here's my take on it: Jon & Kate + fake affair=ratings booster
I'm just sayin'.
I'm also just sayin' that you should be ashamed of yourselves for putting your young family through such drama.

just too long and angry for Twitter

2009-05-22T09:31:00.003-04:00

Sitting here waiting for someone to show up to install heater for the pool. I left work to be here for the 9:00 appointment. It's 9:35. He's 35 minutes late. Again. No call. No text. No smoke signal.
Would it be wrong to smash him in the head with my "Getting Control of Your Anger" book?

2009-05-22T07:59:00.005-04:00

**RAMBLE ALERT**

I am just sick of the way the media has been handling this whole Dick Cheney vs. Barack Obama farce this week. Let's take a sec and think about this:

Where in the world was Dick the majority of the time he was actually IN office?
If the argument is that the Bush administration was doing so much to protect us, then why did we get attacked in the first place?
Why is it that since Obama was elected we are suddenly and completely unsafe although nothing has been changed as far as procedures of national security are concerned. We are still running things like the Bush Administration did. There hasn't even been time to change anything, so we can't be in more danger.
The Cheney camp is trumpeting that "the people" should be involved in making the decision regarding our national security. Really? REALLY?! Seems to me that when the GOP was in power, we "the people" were TOLD what to do, what to think, and what to say. Oh and by the way you'll like it too! If you don't you'll be branded a terrorist or unpatriotic.
Where were you, Dick Cheney, on September 11th? just wonderin'.
Don't you dare bring up the point that "thousands were killed in the name of terror" when you used that horrible day to orchestrate the killing of tens of thousands in our name. Those people say the same things about us, and rightly so.
Since when does simulating drowning get filed under "tough questioning"?
I am insulted that the networks are demeaning Barack by sporting a split screen of him and Cheney all week. This is not a debate people. Obama is our president, not Dick Cheney.
What does it say about the state of our media when the networks so effortlessly fall into the snare of promoting this ridiculous agenda of Cheney's? How pathetic and sad that no one is willing to grow a pair and say no. Bunch of fucking lemmings.

Wowee Wednesday

2009-05-20T05:20:00.009-04:00

Kelly McGillis
Let's face it, we've had a love affair with Kelly McGillis that started way back. No one wanted to admit it, but she was rather hot in 1985's Witness, and we swooned as she defended Jodi Foster in The Accused. But, let's all be honest that when she strode into the frame for the first time in Top Gun we all said "Tom who?" I mean really, who are YOU looking at in this photo?
She's been a constant in the filmography of our generation, and recently made every lesbian jump for joy when she appeared on The L Word....

....and publically came out as a lesbian earlier this year. Yay! Gaydar works people!

So now I don't feel so silly thinking she's hot all this time. There was a good reason!
trivia tidbit: Kelly is the former owner of Kelly's Caribbean Bar Grill & Brewery in Key West and could be frequently seen there tending to patrons. I admit to driving by hoping to catch a glimpse, but saw no one in a bomber jacket and apron.

2009-05-19T07:14:00.007-04:00

Aren't we taking our eye off the ball here? I mean it's the GOP's best tactic, trying to get us to focus on something other that the actual facts or the actual person who should be blamed, but come on.

Don't you think it's interesting that Dick Cheney lumbered onto the scene last week, made the rounds on the news shows, stirred up the lemmings, and at the end of the week everyone was looking at Nancy Pelosi?

How many times are we going to fall for this old stale act?

Democrats: Let's stay focused on this one. Eye on the ball, please. It's easy. It's the one that has the words "REPUBLICANS SUPPORTED TORTURE" scrawled on the side. Remember?

Broadway Monday

2009-05-18T05:05:00.000-04:00

Mary Stuart

Mary Stuart portrays the extraordinary relationship between England’s Elizabeth I and her cousin, Mary Queen of Scots, Elizabeth’s rival to the throne. Through behind-the-scenes intrigue, scheming and betrayal, the play has the feel of a modern-day thriller, building to an electrifying, dramatic confrontation.

According to press notes, Mary Stuart "is a thrilling account of the extraordinary relationship between England's Elizabeth I and her cousin, Mary Queen of Scots, Elizabeth's rival to the throne. With it's behind the scenes intrigue, scheming and betrayal, the play has the contemporary feel of a modern-day political thriller."

Harriet Walter and Janet McTeer, both nominated for Tony Awards next month, reprise their roles in this Broadway production which had it's first exposure on the London stage to rave reviews and sold out performances. Mary Stuart will play at the Broadhurst Theatre through August 16th.

2009-05-14T19:33:00.003-04:00

Underscoring the oafiness of my neighbor:

washing the car
you know, the one that never leaves the drive
because of a flat tire
but we keep it anyway because it's a Mercedes
oh, and it's raining

do you see what I'm dealing with here, people?! Brightest candle on the cake, he is not.

bastions of morality unite

2009-05-14T16:34:00.002-04:00

natch.

2009-05-14T06:05:00.003-04:00

I've added a new widget at the top of the page to give everyone a chance to hear the incredible earworms I am having since last Thursday. I'm a giver, what can I say? I hope you enjoy.
I'll be talking about this show eventually, but right now the real world managed to find me and those window treatments aren't going to hang themselves at the new office...obviously. I've waited and the windows are still bare. huff.

Wowee Wednesday

2009-05-13T06:00:00.002-04:00

Wanda Sykes Strong. Outspoken. Funny. Bold. Assured. Adorable. No sillies, not me!...Wanda Sykes.

Wanda has been in the news a lot this week due to a hilarious turn at the podium of the White House Correspondents Dinner. Not everyone (read: the Right)* appreciated her jokes about Rush and proceeded to skewer her in the news, but I have a feeling that attention only contributed to the next set of stand-up jokes. Way to make lemonade!
Wanda also became the first openly gay woman of color to speak at the annual event. Another feather in her already heavily decorated cap.
You can see her in many films and defunct sitcoms, but currently she plays the hilarious business partner and "life partner" to Julia Louis Dreyfus on The New Adventures of Old Christine on CBS.*Righties have taken every opportunity to condemn Wanda for her joke, but no one said a peep when Bush himself made jokes about not being able to find WMDs or Bin Laden at one of his Correspondent's dinners. Now let's see...one joke makes fun of a bloated drug addict radio host, the other jokes about sending us into an unnecessary war. Wow, these people have a priority problem.

dust off yer crystal balls

2009-05-12T12:56:00.002-04:00

Gee, I wonder what his long-range career aspirations are?

and

Gee, I wonder what Vanessa Williams thinks of this?

a little common sense please

2009-05-12T06:00:00.004-04:00

Monday Morning, 6:00 am

Dear Across the Street Neighbor:

I'd like to take this opportunity to inform you of a couple of tips for being a good member of a neighborhood community. I hope you will appreciate, enjoy, and possibly use a tip or two.

Your dogs belong to YOU. The entire southeast section of the neighborhood doesn't want to share in the parenting duties, dootie duties, or have to run for their lives as one of your three dogs chase them down the road.

You have a fenced in back yard. I know this for a fact because as I asked you to keep them from leaving presents in MY front yard you sighed pathetically, "I'm trying to put up a fence!" Have you thought of actually using that fenced area for the dogs? I'm quite sure it would contain them. Plus, your retired sleeping neighbors would appreciate it.

So, all that being said, why is it that at 5:20 this morning I hear you calling out into the neighborhood for your dogs? I rolled my eyes and thought bad words about you which is normal. I refrained from calling you my usual pet name " Oaf " You're welcome. But now it's 6:00 and you are again calling/whistling/clapping for them. WTF? So your dogs have been roaming the neighborhood for 40 minutes free to pee, poop, dig, and bark in everyone else's yards, not to mention the fact that not everyone is awake at 5 or 6 am. Truth be known you just woke my lovely from her restful slumber. (shakes fists)

Is it any wonder that you are one of the topics at almost every homeowners association meeting, or that I fling your dog's poop back in your yard every chance I get? I've got enough to clean up in my back yard without worrying about stepping in your dogs cheap ass dog food dooties. Yes, I can tell a difference.

Good day.

Broadway Monday

2009-05-11T05:23:00.010-04:00

God of Carnage

Two sets of parents meet up to deal with the unruly behavior of their children. Will it be a calm and rational debate between grown-ups about the need to teach kids how to behave properly? Or will it turn into a hysterical night of name-calling, tantrums and tears before bedtime?

I'll be honest and tell you that this show was not on our list of potentials when we were planning our trip last weekend to New York. In fact, I was told by my lovely that although she liked Marcia Gay Harden a lot, she simply couldn't stand to see James Gandolfini so don't even bother. Scheduling and run times being what they are, we were faced with a dilemma Thursday afternoon as Tony buzz was causing tickets to fly out the door at every theatre. God of Carnage was right across the street from two places we needed to go after the show, and it was a relatively short show at 90 minutes with no intermission. I did my best coercing and rationalizing while the box office finagled the last two seats in the orchestra section of the Jacobs Theatre. :) I'm very glad I did, they did, and my lovely took a chance and trusted me! What a fantastic show!

There is just something about watching a small group of seasoned, professional actors on a stage take control of a play. Marcia Gay Harden, James Gandolfini, Jeff Daniels, and Hope Davis all take command of the small stage at some point during the show displaying their acting chops, but the best scenes involve the utter physical chaos and emotional carnage the four of them heap on the stage as one well choreographed group.

The audience is taken on a roller coaster ride as the discussion by mature adults regarding the problem between their children via a playground scuffle turns into a brawl of words, flowers, pillows, cell phones, cigars and just a "splash" of vomit. Lest ye think this is a 90 minute event of stress, let me assure you that we laughed for the majority of the show! We both agreed that Marcia Gay Harden is hilarious, and who knew?

God of Carnage is a simple topic made into a hilarious and poignant commentary on our civilization and just how little we have evolved from the common playground rules and scuffles.

God of Carnage is currently playing at the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre through August 2, 2009 and has been nominated for six Tony Awards including Best Play, two for Best Actor, and two for Best Actress.

2009-05-10T11:23:00.001-04:00

Clearly, I fell down on the job of daily documenting my trip to NYC. Never fear! Will finish documentation and juicy tidbits when I get back.
Landed in Orlando and making our way back to Gville as we speak.

2009-05-08T12:02:00.001-04:00

Saw "Next to Normal" last night. What an impactful, moving, brilliant, incredible show. Can't express how that theatre experience moved and affected me. Incredible.