Broadway Baby
I've become totally obsessed with musical theater lately. Yes, I've always been a very big fan, but recently it's been creeping into everything. I just borrowed Carousel and Showboat from the library, because I've never seen them. How can I say I'm a Rodgers and Hammerstein fan if I've never seen Carousel? Just disgusting.
Last Friday I spent nearly six hours in a basement piano bar, screeching along with the rest of the gang. It was just criminal how many songs I was unfamiliar with. I should know Gypsy. I should know Funny Girl. A song or two here, or just the chorus, is not going to cut it. Don't ask me why I care, I haven't dug that deeply yet. I'm more than a little afraid of what I might find when I go there. For the moment I'll just accept it as a creepy new hobby.
Monday, September 30, 2002
Sunshine Day
Have you ever had one of those weeks where it seems like your whole world is crumbling around you and you just can't seem to even sweep up any of the detritus? Sure, everyone has. The best part of a week like that is the next week. This morning I actually got up at 6:30 am. Okay, I bargained with my reasonable side for one snooze, but I never even fell back to sleep. I was so proud of myself. I turned on the radio to "Good Day Sunshine" by The Beatles, one of my favorite songs from my favorite Fab Four album. I ate breakfast. I know, it's scary. I left the house early, which was good, because, as has happened for the last six work days, the bus arrived at the corner just before I could reach it. I'm talking seconds. The options are to wait for the next bus, or start walking and helplessly watch the next bus pass you and get to the station just before the W train arrives. I waited. But this time, I wasn't even mad. How could I be? It's so incredibly ridiculous that six weekdays in a row, no matter what time I leave the house, the bus arrives at the corner with no chance for me to catch it. Normally, I'm irritated and say bad words, but today I wasn't late, so I didn't get mad. Then, when I did get on the bus, I realized I had not refilled my Metrocard, so I had to get change from one of the ladies on the bus. Still wasn't a bit put out. Because I had to get a new Metrocard at the station, I missed the W and had to wait another 10 minutes. But I had happy mix tape action in the Walkman, so, even when there were absolutely no seats on the train (until I scored one at Pacific, yay!) I was a happy camper. When I arrived at work, I was still early. I beat all the 9:30 people in. I'm sure that without the background of my daily self-flagellation for the past 6 years over my lateness to work, this doesn't really sound like much, but trust me. Any day I show up to work less than an hour late is a good day for me.
Even with the heartbreak of PageMaker and three hours of scanning photos today, my spirits remained high. Now, my brochure is ready to print, the paper has been ordered, everything is being handled, and I can breathe. Did I mention I even ironed my clothes last night? I love these brief spurts of adulthood I get now and then. They almost make up for the hungover weekends I spend on the couch, eating hot wings and watching V.I.P.
Have you ever had one of those weeks where it seems like your whole world is crumbling around you and you just can't seem to even sweep up any of the detritus? Sure, everyone has. The best part of a week like that is the next week. This morning I actually got up at 6:30 am. Okay, I bargained with my reasonable side for one snooze, but I never even fell back to sleep. I was so proud of myself. I turned on the radio to "Good Day Sunshine" by The Beatles, one of my favorite songs from my favorite Fab Four album. I ate breakfast. I know, it's scary. I left the house early, which was good, because, as has happened for the last six work days, the bus arrived at the corner just before I could reach it. I'm talking seconds. The options are to wait for the next bus, or start walking and helplessly watch the next bus pass you and get to the station just before the W train arrives. I waited. But this time, I wasn't even mad. How could I be? It's so incredibly ridiculous that six weekdays in a row, no matter what time I leave the house, the bus arrives at the corner with no chance for me to catch it. Normally, I'm irritated and say bad words, but today I wasn't late, so I didn't get mad. Then, when I did get on the bus, I realized I had not refilled my Metrocard, so I had to get change from one of the ladies on the bus. Still wasn't a bit put out. Because I had to get a new Metrocard at the station, I missed the W and had to wait another 10 minutes. But I had happy mix tape action in the Walkman, so, even when there were absolutely no seats on the train (until I scored one at Pacific, yay!) I was a happy camper. When I arrived at work, I was still early. I beat all the 9:30 people in. I'm sure that without the background of my daily self-flagellation for the past 6 years over my lateness to work, this doesn't really sound like much, but trust me. Any day I show up to work less than an hour late is a good day for me.
Even with the heartbreak of PageMaker and three hours of scanning photos today, my spirits remained high. Now, my brochure is ready to print, the paper has been ordered, everything is being handled, and I can breathe. Did I mention I even ironed my clothes last night? I love these brief spurts of adulthood I get now and then. They almost make up for the hungover weekends I spend on the couch, eating hot wings and watching V.I.P.
Thursday, September 26, 2002
Plus...
I forgot to mention that my favorite part of MDs was the patient who refused the heart transplant in favor of the certainty of living another day. Thank you! Organ transplants are not a miracle cure! Hey, even if it weren't for the risk of death during surgery, death from infection, death from tissue rejection, and all that crazy scarring, the very idea of having someone else's internal organ patched into my body creeeeeeeeps me out. Ew. I'll take my chances with death, please. Seriously. And I'm not giving up any of my organs to go in someone else, either. It's unnatural. Sorry family. Besides, you wouldn't want them anyway, with all the abuse I put them through.
I forgot to mention that my favorite part of MDs was the patient who refused the heart transplant in favor of the certainty of living another day. Thank you! Organ transplants are not a miracle cure! Hey, even if it weren't for the risk of death during surgery, death from infection, death from tissue rejection, and all that crazy scarring, the very idea of having someone else's internal organ patched into my body creeeeeeeeps me out. Ew. I'll take my chances with death, please. Seriously. And I'm not giving up any of my organs to go in someone else, either. It's unnatural. Sorry family. Besides, you wouldn't want them anyway, with all the abuse I put them through.
Doctor, My Eyes... My Eyes! My Eyes! Aaaaaaaargh!
Granted, while I was watching the premiere of MDs last night I was about 2 sheets to the wind, but I have to say, ease up on the angst, guys! As I predicted, this show is very M*A*S*H-like, without the laughtrack. Where it's supposed to be funny it's funny. But where it's supposed to be dramatic, it's so melodramatic that it's funny. Bad fake roof set. Such an obvious green screen. Interesting casting decisions. I really hope they back off on the tortured-soul scenery chewing or I won't be able to take it. It'll have to become a drinking game show. Every time the rogue surgeon dodges the mean administrative lady in the hallway, drink. Every time the rogue surgeon is reminded what a horrible father he is, drink. Every time the cute Scottish doctor brings up his time in Bosnia, drink. Every time the new director runs away from blood, drink. Every time the idealistic new intern gazes admiringly at her two "gonzo" mentors, drink. Hmm, maybe we should play this with lemonade so no one gets alcohol poisoning.
Granted, while I was watching the premiere of MDs last night I was about 2 sheets to the wind, but I have to say, ease up on the angst, guys! As I predicted, this show is very M*A*S*H-like, without the laughtrack. Where it's supposed to be funny it's funny. But where it's supposed to be dramatic, it's so melodramatic that it's funny. Bad fake roof set. Such an obvious green screen. Interesting casting decisions. I really hope they back off on the tortured-soul scenery chewing or I won't be able to take it. It'll have to become a drinking game show. Every time the rogue surgeon dodges the mean administrative lady in the hallway, drink. Every time the rogue surgeon is reminded what a horrible father he is, drink. Every time the cute Scottish doctor brings up his time in Bosnia, drink. Every time the new director runs away from blood, drink. Every time the idealistic new intern gazes admiringly at her two "gonzo" mentors, drink. Hmm, maybe we should play this with lemonade so no one gets alcohol poisoning.
Wednesday, September 25, 2002
Stop Reading Now
If reading my blog posts is as aggravating as reading Buffy message board posts, just stop now. I've finally realized why I have finger smudges all over my monitor. I grab it and try to shake it when some goober annoys me. Also, I poke it and say "what are you, stupid?" It really is worse than watching Jeopardy! No more reading message boards with more than three people posting.
Birthday Birthday Birthday!
That's right, just eight shopping days until my birthday. I know I haven't been as vocal about it as in year's past, but it kind of sneaked up on me. The past six months have kind of been a blur. I haven't even decided what my Halloween costume is going to be yet! Anyway, birthday. I'm going to be 29 on October 3. That's me, the charming and indecisive Libra. If you want to buy me presents (which you should never feel obligated to do), I set up a wish list at Amazon. I'm hoping for well-administered birthday spankings, but if that fails I'll just go see Secretary instead!
If reading my blog posts is as aggravating as reading Buffy message board posts, just stop now. I've finally realized why I have finger smudges all over my monitor. I grab it and try to shake it when some goober annoys me. Also, I poke it and say "what are you, stupid?" It really is worse than watching Jeopardy! No more reading message boards with more than three people posting.
Birthday Birthday Birthday!
That's right, just eight shopping days until my birthday. I know I haven't been as vocal about it as in year's past, but it kind of sneaked up on me. The past six months have kind of been a blur. I haven't even decided what my Halloween costume is going to be yet! Anyway, birthday. I'm going to be 29 on October 3. That's me, the charming and indecisive Libra. If you want to buy me presents (which you should never feel obligated to do), I set up a wish list at Amazon. I'm hoping for well-administered birthday spankings, but if that fails I'll just go see Secretary instead!
The Best Night on TV
Sure, it only lasts from 8-10 pm, but I haven't seen a pairing like this since Buffy and Angel were on the same network. Of course, I have to change channels for this pairing, but nothing beats a fantastic episode of Buffy, the Vampire Slayer followed by an exciting episode of Smallville. Allow me to go on at length.
Sure, I was prepared for a suck-tastic season premiere from our friends at Mutant Enemy (Grr, Argh!), so maybe that's why I was so ecstatic by 8:58 pm. However, I think actual good writing may be the reason. It's almost as if they went out and rehired the original writers. They sure rehired some original cast members. But I'm getting ahead of myself. Buffy training Dawn how to defend herself? Good. Not making it out as if Buffy is training her to be a real Slayer? Better. Bookending the concept of power was a very nice touch. Hey, I like my BtVS heavy-handed, m'kay?
Question: who was the chick getting the stuffing knifed out of her in Istanbul and when will we find out more?
Xander making with the suit and the car -- glad to see he's learning how to be a grown up. Probably why he couldn't marry Anya; he wasn't at a good place yet. However, it's all or nothing for Anya (who is obviously dressing in the dark, yeegh). She still doesn't have the heart for vengeance. D'Hoffryn should just take back her powers, and where the hell is her power source? If Hallie has one, she should, too. Oops, sorry, getting too esoteric for BtVS virgins.
The new principal at the new Sunnydale High: way to make us think he could be evil, then (almost certainly) definitively prove to us that he's not. The new Sunnydale High, period: I'm so glad they're bringing back the Hellmouth! Did anyone even mention the Hellmouth in Season 6? The source of all the evil in Sunnydale, drawing demons and baddies of every stripe the world over to its naughty cream filling. And now it's waking up again. More on that in a bit.
The ghosts were scary!
Finally, someone has figured out what the hell to do with Buffy now that she's not in school anymore. Fast food? How stupid. I realize it was supposed to be the ultimate example of failure, but it was just weird. Can I note how nice it is to see some earth tones and less red everywhere? Thank you for answering my production-value-wishes, Good Fairy! Anyway, a counselor for the school is the perfect device to keep Buffy near Sunnydale high without being suspicious, but it's also a good thing for Buffy to do as a person, helping students find their way through the high school from hell. She can "learn and grow." (Sorry, Faith reference. Mmm, Faith.) New teenagers, also a good sign. Dawn needs some friends, already. If she must be on the show, give her friends. Now, I know some people may be afraid this foreshadows a Dawn, The Vampire Slayer spin-off with all her wacky sidekicks, but let's just not think about that possibility. Let's live in Season 7 and only Season 7, okay?
Ah, now we come to Spike. Nice hair. No self-respecting, soul-having, tortured and crazy vampire would take the time to slick his hair back or buy peroxide. It's refreshing that Spike hasn't either. I liked the bit where he alluded to trying to cut out his soul (the cuts were over his heart; is that where the Jossverse soul is?). Oh, and is he nuts. Very well done, James Marsters. Wondered who the third on in "the three of us" was. When I saw Warren, I was deeply confused. Was Warren representing a physical manifestation of Spike's new soul? It didn't make sense, Warren being such an assbag and all. Then when he morphed into Glory, I was afraid. Afraid that Glory was truly back. I mean, she did tend to morph. But then I remembered that Warren was all skinless, so it couldn't be Glory. When Glory morphed into Adam, I got it. I started doing the happy Buffy dance of joy, the one that used to drive Jean-Paul crazy. Last time I remember bouncing up and down that much during an episode was the Season 2 finale, when Buffy and Angel were swordfighting. I may have fuzzy memory; I'm sure other episodes in the future got me jumpy. Anyway. Each incarnation actually talked like the villain they represented (if you don't get this, the being was changing into each Big Bad from the previous years, chronologically). Glory said she was "fabulous," Adam called Spike "Number 17" (though I think "Hostile 17" would have been more accurate). I couldn't believe that they would actually get everyone. Could they? Did the actors love the show that much that they would take time out for a cameo in all that makeup (in some cases)? Yes! Adam became the Mayor, and I was creeped out anew. The Mayor became Drusilla, red French tips and all. At this point I was saying "Ohmygodohmygodohmygod" over and over, waiting, hoping to see Mark Metcalf in all his nasty Master-ness. And, Yay! But the last... the last... where the Master becomes Buffy? I lost it. Evil, evil, evil! Hellmouth Evil. The Original Big Bad. EVIL is sharing a crazy solitary cell with a re-souled Spike. No brooding goody-two-shoes champion will come out of this one. The possibilities, the promise...
Oh yeah, and Willow's getting in touch with the real concept of Wicca in England with Giles. But Giles isn't in the opening credits. Boo! Oh well, I got to see him ride a horse in a duster, rowrr.
So, after I shrieked some incomprehensibles into my friend's phone, I settled in for the second part of the Smallville Season 1 cliffhanger. If you haven't seen this show, you should check it out. You can catch reruns on the WB on Sundays. For one, Tom Welling, Michael Rosenbaum, and yes, John Schneider are very cute. Regardless. Clark flew! He wasn't sure he did it or how, but he did, and he saved Lana from being toast. Lex saved his father from dying, but made a bad decision and now Lionel is blind. Of course, he has to tell Lex that he'd be better off dead, when a tortured Lex thinks he'd be better off if Lionel were dead as well, though he doesn't want to be that person. Lex saves Jonathan's life and Clark's secret (unknowingly), by popping the bad reporter (who totally deserved it -- an archetype of slime). Chloe pulled the all-time dumbest move a girl can pull. She tested Clark's affection for her by suggesting they just be friends. Instead of begging her to reconsider, like she really wanted, he said okay, the way any normal boy would. Stupid, stupid Chloe. We've all seen Superman 3, we know Clark and Lana don't get together.
Well, it was a very good episode, tying up all the loose ends from the previous one. There was some great acting, amazing special effects, great sets (the wreckage from the tornado was well-done) and a few revelations. The character of Lex is ever-evolving. The big question is how and when does he become evil? When do Clark and Lex go from being best friends to arch nemeses? In a way, the show is more about Lex than about Clark. Clark's charcter isn't that round. He's good now, he's good later. He just gets a special suit and glasses later. I'm pleased with Smallville.
Sing! Sing! Sing!
The only problem with this sublime Tuesday night is that Pieces has started a karaoke contest. Now, I really only have to miss one Tuesday to be in it, but I think it woud be a good idea to see the competition before the semifinals, you know? I would tape the shows, but my VCR doesn't tape right. What shall I do? This is a season not to be missed, but I have the chance to win $1000. Some of my friends think I could win, but I don't know. I know there are other singers out there who are better than I am, but I think I've got the "karaoke" thing down pretty well. Bob is judging the Tuesday preliminaries, and he told me he's judging on appearance and stage presence as well as just singing. Then there's the choice: do I sign up now or wait for December? If I sign up now, I have a higher risk of losing out in the semifinals. But if it gets popular, I have a risk of not getting into the semifinals if I wait. Plus, I can kill with a number of different songs. I thought I'd get into a Tuesday with "Boy From New York City." It's sweet, easy to sing, and I can work it. Add a cute dress and I'm sure I could get in the top three of 10. I want to save the show-stoppers for the popular ballot contests. I really want to do this, but as with all competition, I'm afraid I'll mess up and look stupid. So, I'll be happy if I manage a $10 bar tab. I'll post updates here.
Sure, it only lasts from 8-10 pm, but I haven't seen a pairing like this since Buffy and Angel were on the same network. Of course, I have to change channels for this pairing, but nothing beats a fantastic episode of Buffy, the Vampire Slayer followed by an exciting episode of Smallville. Allow me to go on at length.
Sure, I was prepared for a suck-tastic season premiere from our friends at Mutant Enemy (Grr, Argh!), so maybe that's why I was so ecstatic by 8:58 pm. However, I think actual good writing may be the reason. It's almost as if they went out and rehired the original writers. They sure rehired some original cast members. But I'm getting ahead of myself. Buffy training Dawn how to defend herself? Good. Not making it out as if Buffy is training her to be a real Slayer? Better. Bookending the concept of power was a very nice touch. Hey, I like my BtVS heavy-handed, m'kay?
Question: who was the chick getting the stuffing knifed out of her in Istanbul and when will we find out more?
Xander making with the suit and the car -- glad to see he's learning how to be a grown up. Probably why he couldn't marry Anya; he wasn't at a good place yet. However, it's all or nothing for Anya (who is obviously dressing in the dark, yeegh). She still doesn't have the heart for vengeance. D'Hoffryn should just take back her powers, and where the hell is her power source? If Hallie has one, she should, too. Oops, sorry, getting too esoteric for BtVS virgins.
The new principal at the new Sunnydale High: way to make us think he could be evil, then (almost certainly) definitively prove to us that he's not. The new Sunnydale High, period: I'm so glad they're bringing back the Hellmouth! Did anyone even mention the Hellmouth in Season 6? The source of all the evil in Sunnydale, drawing demons and baddies of every stripe the world over to its naughty cream filling. And now it's waking up again. More on that in a bit.
The ghosts were scary!
Finally, someone has figured out what the hell to do with Buffy now that she's not in school anymore. Fast food? How stupid. I realize it was supposed to be the ultimate example of failure, but it was just weird. Can I note how nice it is to see some earth tones and less red everywhere? Thank you for answering my production-value-wishes, Good Fairy! Anyway, a counselor for the school is the perfect device to keep Buffy near Sunnydale high without being suspicious, but it's also a good thing for Buffy to do as a person, helping students find their way through the high school from hell. She can "learn and grow." (Sorry, Faith reference. Mmm, Faith.) New teenagers, also a good sign. Dawn needs some friends, already. If she must be on the show, give her friends. Now, I know some people may be afraid this foreshadows a Dawn, The Vampire Slayer spin-off with all her wacky sidekicks, but let's just not think about that possibility. Let's live in Season 7 and only Season 7, okay?
Ah, now we come to Spike. Nice hair. No self-respecting, soul-having, tortured and crazy vampire would take the time to slick his hair back or buy peroxide. It's refreshing that Spike hasn't either. I liked the bit where he alluded to trying to cut out his soul (the cuts were over his heart; is that where the Jossverse soul is?). Oh, and is he nuts. Very well done, James Marsters. Wondered who the third on in "the three of us" was. When I saw Warren, I was deeply confused. Was Warren representing a physical manifestation of Spike's new soul? It didn't make sense, Warren being such an assbag and all. Then when he morphed into Glory, I was afraid. Afraid that Glory was truly back. I mean, she did tend to morph. But then I remembered that Warren was all skinless, so it couldn't be Glory. When Glory morphed into Adam, I got it. I started doing the happy Buffy dance of joy, the one that used to drive Jean-Paul crazy. Last time I remember bouncing up and down that much during an episode was the Season 2 finale, when Buffy and Angel were swordfighting. I may have fuzzy memory; I'm sure other episodes in the future got me jumpy. Anyway. Each incarnation actually talked like the villain they represented (if you don't get this, the being was changing into each Big Bad from the previous years, chronologically). Glory said she was "fabulous," Adam called Spike "Number 17" (though I think "Hostile 17" would have been more accurate). I couldn't believe that they would actually get everyone. Could they? Did the actors love the show that much that they would take time out for a cameo in all that makeup (in some cases)? Yes! Adam became the Mayor, and I was creeped out anew. The Mayor became Drusilla, red French tips and all. At this point I was saying "Ohmygodohmygodohmygod" over and over, waiting, hoping to see Mark Metcalf in all his nasty Master-ness. And, Yay! But the last... the last... where the Master becomes Buffy? I lost it. Evil, evil, evil! Hellmouth Evil. The Original Big Bad. EVIL is sharing a crazy solitary cell with a re-souled Spike. No brooding goody-two-shoes champion will come out of this one. The possibilities, the promise...
Oh yeah, and Willow's getting in touch with the real concept of Wicca in England with Giles. But Giles isn't in the opening credits. Boo! Oh well, I got to see him ride a horse in a duster, rowrr.
So, after I shrieked some incomprehensibles into my friend's phone, I settled in for the second part of the Smallville Season 1 cliffhanger. If you haven't seen this show, you should check it out. You can catch reruns on the WB on Sundays. For one, Tom Welling, Michael Rosenbaum, and yes, John Schneider are very cute. Regardless. Clark flew! He wasn't sure he did it or how, but he did, and he saved Lana from being toast. Lex saved his father from dying, but made a bad decision and now Lionel is blind. Of course, he has to tell Lex that he'd be better off dead, when a tortured Lex thinks he'd be better off if Lionel were dead as well, though he doesn't want to be that person. Lex saves Jonathan's life and Clark's secret (unknowingly), by popping the bad reporter (who totally deserved it -- an archetype of slime). Chloe pulled the all-time dumbest move a girl can pull. She tested Clark's affection for her by suggesting they just be friends. Instead of begging her to reconsider, like she really wanted, he said okay, the way any normal boy would. Stupid, stupid Chloe. We've all seen Superman 3, we know Clark and Lana don't get together.
Well, it was a very good episode, tying up all the loose ends from the previous one. There was some great acting, amazing special effects, great sets (the wreckage from the tornado was well-done) and a few revelations. The character of Lex is ever-evolving. The big question is how and when does he become evil? When do Clark and Lex go from being best friends to arch nemeses? In a way, the show is more about Lex than about Clark. Clark's charcter isn't that round. He's good now, he's good later. He just gets a special suit and glasses later. I'm pleased with Smallville.
Sing! Sing! Sing!
The only problem with this sublime Tuesday night is that Pieces has started a karaoke contest. Now, I really only have to miss one Tuesday to be in it, but I think it woud be a good idea to see the competition before the semifinals, you know? I would tape the shows, but my VCR doesn't tape right. What shall I do? This is a season not to be missed, but I have the chance to win $1000. Some of my friends think I could win, but I don't know. I know there are other singers out there who are better than I am, but I think I've got the "karaoke" thing down pretty well. Bob is judging the Tuesday preliminaries, and he told me he's judging on appearance and stage presence as well as just singing. Then there's the choice: do I sign up now or wait for December? If I sign up now, I have a higher risk of losing out in the semifinals. But if it gets popular, I have a risk of not getting into the semifinals if I wait. Plus, I can kill with a number of different songs. I thought I'd get into a Tuesday with "Boy From New York City." It's sweet, easy to sing, and I can work it. Add a cute dress and I'm sure I could get in the top three of 10. I want to save the show-stoppers for the popular ballot contests. I really want to do this, but as with all competition, I'm afraid I'll mess up and look stupid. So, I'll be happy if I manage a $10 bar tab. I'll post updates here.
Quote of the Day
"It's a television show that should be taken with a grain of salt," he said. "But at the same time, Italian-Americans should be cognizant that it adds to the stereotypes in this country." -- Anthony Marci, vice president of the North Jersey chapter of Fiery, a group of students and young adults that celebrates Italian culture, on the Italian-American Miss New Jersey being asked a question about The Sopranos. Dude, pick a side, already. (And speaking of hypersensitivity, I think people have been making the altar boy joke for many years now, and Fordham needs to relax. If you can't trash talk at sporting events, where can you?)
"It's a television show that should be taken with a grain of salt," he said. "But at the same time, Italian-Americans should be cognizant that it adds to the stereotypes in this country." -- Anthony Marci, vice president of the North Jersey chapter of Fiery, a group of students and young adults that celebrates Italian culture, on the Italian-American Miss New Jersey being asked a question about The Sopranos. Dude, pick a side, already. (And speaking of hypersensitivity, I think people have been making the altar boy joke for many years now, and Fordham needs to relax. If you can't trash talk at sporting events, where can you?)
Tuesday, September 24, 2002
CSI: The Elmore Leonard Years
I tried so hard to watch CSI: Miami last night. I tried not to read all about breast cancer in my new Self magazine and focus instead on David Caruso & Co. recreating one of my favorite shows in backwoods-yet-exotic Southern Florida. But about 20 minutes in, I had to shut off the TV. It just shouldn't be that hard to watch television. I didn't care a fig for any of the characters. The ME's quirk of talking directly to the corpses was cute on the crossover episode, but quickly became just plain creepy. Introducing a political problem between the male and female lead in the first ten minutes doesn't score any points with me. Dude. Horatio? You're not Grissom. Stop saying, "Ladies" and "Gentlemen" as if you're the schoolmarm trying to quiet rambunctious rugrats. The addition of Kim Delaney is totally annoying. Now the parallels are complete. Old guy, old gal (who, by the way, wears the wrong shoes for crime scene investigation), young gal, two young turks. I guess making the ME a crazy black lady is their big twist. I say thumbs down on CSI: Maimi.
On the bright side of TV, I get to watch the Buffy and Smallville season premieres tonight. I'll have to pick up some ice cream, Dr. Pepper and cigarettes to make this perfect. Will the bad reporter get away with Clark's secret? Will Lex find out? (But that wouldn't make sense, because if Lex Luthor knows Superman's secret identity, wouldn't he tell everyone in the future?) Will Chloe forgive Clark for saving Lana's Neutrogena-caked ass? Will Clark fly? I'm all a-tingle.
And by the way, I got my white belt in karate last Thursday. Watch out, evildoers! Grab me on the wrist all you want, I will easily slip through your grasp. Just don't grab me by the shirt, because I haven't quite figured that one out yet.
I tried so hard to watch CSI: Miami last night. I tried not to read all about breast cancer in my new Self magazine and focus instead on David Caruso & Co. recreating one of my favorite shows in backwoods-yet-exotic Southern Florida. But about 20 minutes in, I had to shut off the TV. It just shouldn't be that hard to watch television. I didn't care a fig for any of the characters. The ME's quirk of talking directly to the corpses was cute on the crossover episode, but quickly became just plain creepy. Introducing a political problem between the male and female lead in the first ten minutes doesn't score any points with me. Dude. Horatio? You're not Grissom. Stop saying, "Ladies" and "Gentlemen" as if you're the schoolmarm trying to quiet rambunctious rugrats. The addition of Kim Delaney is totally annoying. Now the parallels are complete. Old guy, old gal (who, by the way, wears the wrong shoes for crime scene investigation), young gal, two young turks. I guess making the ME a crazy black lady is their big twist. I say thumbs down on CSI: Maimi.
On the bright side of TV, I get to watch the Buffy and Smallville season premieres tonight. I'll have to pick up some ice cream, Dr. Pepper and cigarettes to make this perfect. Will the bad reporter get away with Clark's secret? Will Lex find out? (But that wouldn't make sense, because if Lex Luthor knows Superman's secret identity, wouldn't he tell everyone in the future?) Will Chloe forgive Clark for saving Lana's Neutrogena-caked ass? Will Clark fly? I'm all a-tingle.
And by the way, I got my white belt in karate last Thursday. Watch out, evildoers! Grab me on the wrist all you want, I will easily slip through your grasp. Just don't grab me by the shirt, because I haven't quite figured that one out yet.
Did Someone Hit Him With A Sledgehammer?
Oy, what's happened to Peter Gabriel? And why do bald guys always grow those crazy beards? It's not an even exchange of hair, really it's not. I don't know if I'll ever find "In Your Eyes" romantic again!
Oy, what's happened to Peter Gabriel? And why do bald guys always grow those crazy beards? It's not an even exchange of hair, really it's not. I don't know if I'll ever find "In Your Eyes" romantic again!
Manic Panic Tragic
Grr. I missed a Small Business Awards Breakfast I was invited to this morning. I was all ready to go, set the alarm, put out the clothes, tweezed my eyebrows before bed... Unfortunately, I set my alarm for 6:00 pm, not am. The worst part? Tish and Snooky from Manic Panic were receiving an award and they left goodie bags for everyone! Wah! If anyone has any clever alarm clock solutions, I'd be happy to hear them. I can barely get out of bed most mornings. I want one of those sunrise alarms (instead of a noise, you get ever-brightening light in your face), but I don't want to invest $100 on an untested solution. If you or anyone you know has used one of these things, your comments are welcome.
I'll just have my tea and donut, now, since I missed the free brekkie. *sigh*
Grr. I missed a Small Business Awards Breakfast I was invited to this morning. I was all ready to go, set the alarm, put out the clothes, tweezed my eyebrows before bed... Unfortunately, I set my alarm for 6:00 pm, not am. The worst part? Tish and Snooky from Manic Panic were receiving an award and they left goodie bags for everyone! Wah! If anyone has any clever alarm clock solutions, I'd be happy to hear them. I can barely get out of bed most mornings. I want one of those sunrise alarms (instead of a noise, you get ever-brightening light in your face), but I don't want to invest $100 on an untested solution. If you or anyone you know has used one of these things, your comments are welcome.
I'll just have my tea and donut, now, since I missed the free brekkie. *sigh*
I Can See Your Bloomies!
If you live in NYC and enjoy fashion, I suggest taking the trip up to Bloomingdales. Not for shopping of course, but for the window. The Lexington Avenue window is always wonderful, but the current display is cheeky and clever and makes you read. It's also subtle; I had to read an article about Mr. Verdi in The New York Observer before I realized that some of the fashion show audience were actually caricatures (Mr. Verdi is the one thinking about Vreeland). I could have guessed Nicky and Paris Hilton from the overdone "smoky" eyes, but the name tags were helpful. If all this means nothing to you, carry on. Otherwise, you should visit the store soon, because the exhibits don't last for too long, and this one has been up for a week already. By the way, the 59th Street corner window tells us that the now thing is "the new hobo," which will feature leopard print, fringed crescent bags that cost upwards of $100. Very hobo.
If you live in NYC and enjoy fashion, I suggest taking the trip up to Bloomingdales. Not for shopping of course, but for the window. The Lexington Avenue window is always wonderful, but the current display is cheeky and clever and makes you read. It's also subtle; I had to read an article about Mr. Verdi in The New York Observer before I realized that some of the fashion show audience were actually caricatures (Mr. Verdi is the one thinking about Vreeland). I could have guessed Nicky and Paris Hilton from the overdone "smoky" eyes, but the name tags were helpful. If all this means nothing to you, carry on. Otherwise, you should visit the store soon, because the exhibits don't last for too long, and this one has been up for a week already. By the way, the 59th Street corner window tells us that the now thing is "the new hobo," which will feature leopard print, fringed crescent bags that cost upwards of $100. Very hobo.
Monday, September 23, 2002
Survive This
Hey, did you watch Survivor last week? Not bad. I do wish I had better reception for CBS, though. I have to move the rabbit ears around on the color TV until I get the best picture, but because all I can hear is static, I have to put that TV on mute, then turn on the B&W TV in the other room for the sound. It's really not as pathetic as it sounds. I guess I should probably get cable someday, but I'm holding out for the all Buffy, Ab Fab and Prince videos station.
Hey, did you watch Survivor last week? Not bad. I do wish I had better reception for CBS, though. I have to move the rabbit ears around on the color TV until I get the best picture, but because all I can hear is static, I have to put that TV on mute, then turn on the B&W TV in the other room for the sound. It's really not as pathetic as it sounds. I guess I should probably get cable someday, but I'm holding out for the all Buffy, Ab Fab and Prince videos station.
Live Long and Hack The Planet?
I caught Hackers on TV last night during the Emmy's-induced moviefest on the other networks. I know it's not terribly realistic, but being the computer geek groupie that I am, I've always loved this movie. OK, the special monitor effects are a little cheesy, but how exciting is real hacking to the casual observer? Pretty drool-worthy, catatonia-wise. The weird thing I noticed this time is how much Kate Libby (Angelina Jolie) looks like Enterprise's Vulcan officer T'Pol. The actress who plays T'Pol is named Jolene. Interesting. (So why did they change her name from T'Pau? Didn't they want to go the "she's the head Vulcan in later episodes" route? I loved that song T'Pau did. Still one of my favorites. Anyway.)
Dude! I just realized that the "universally stupid" junior hacker Joey is played by Jesse "Swim Fan" Bradford. I thought he was the dreamiest in Bring It On. They have that movie at the library. I'm getting it again. OK, tangent over.
I caught Hackers on TV last night during the Emmy's-induced moviefest on the other networks. I know it's not terribly realistic, but being the computer geek groupie that I am, I've always loved this movie. OK, the special monitor effects are a little cheesy, but how exciting is real hacking to the casual observer? Pretty drool-worthy, catatonia-wise. The weird thing I noticed this time is how much Kate Libby (Angelina Jolie) looks like Enterprise's Vulcan officer T'Pol. The actress who plays T'Pol is named Jolene. Interesting. (So why did they change her name from T'Pau? Didn't they want to go the "she's the head Vulcan in later episodes" route? I loved that song T'Pau did. Still one of my favorites. Anyway.)
Dude! I just realized that the "universally stupid" junior hacker Joey is played by Jesse "Swim Fan" Bradford. I thought he was the dreamiest in Bring It On. They have that movie at the library. I'm getting it again. OK, tangent over.
Knees Together, Please
Not terrible article about one of my pet peeves. If you've ever ridden a train or a bus, you'll get it.
Not terrible article about one of my pet peeves. If you've ever ridden a train or a bus, you'll get it.
Miss America, Speech, Speech!
I caught part of the Miss America Pageant on Saturday. Miss Illinois won. I found her performance in the talent competition to be a bit sharp, and she didn't really kick ass on the quiz section, but she sure is pretty. Anyway, I was rooting for Miss Nevada, Teresa Benitez, who did a dramatic interpretation of Matthew Shepard's father's speech to the jury in the trial of the men who killed his son. Also, she scored second highest on the quiz (although I was disappointed that she didn't know Alan Shepard was the first American in space). Granted, I didn't see her in swimsuit, and her eveningwear was nice, but not spectacular. I liked her platform, which is fighting poverty, and she seemed very clever. She wants to be a senator, and she is very focused on helping poor people make the best of their lives, from what I heard her say. She did win third runner up. Miss Oklahoma did an awesome rendition of "Mr. Paganini." For a white girl, she handled the scat very well. Miss Alabama pretty much embarrassed herself with the Footloose, The Musical version of "Holding Out For a Hero." Yeeeagh. I hope they didn't perform it like that on Broadway. I am one of the few people who will admit to liking Wayne Brady, and I thought he did a nice job. He's the perfect guy to be a Miss America Pageant host and sing the song at the end.
I am sad I missed swimsuit, though. Did you know it's about fitness and lifestyle? No unhealthy flab-packages wrapping themselves into girdles allowed in this competition! No visible track-marks or boyfriend-beatings here! Yeah, swimsuit is okay with me. Where it creeps me out is in the teen pageants. Again, yeeagh.
I caught part of the Miss America Pageant on Saturday. Miss Illinois won. I found her performance in the talent competition to be a bit sharp, and she didn't really kick ass on the quiz section, but she sure is pretty. Anyway, I was rooting for Miss Nevada, Teresa Benitez, who did a dramatic interpretation of Matthew Shepard's father's speech to the jury in the trial of the men who killed his son. Also, she scored second highest on the quiz (although I was disappointed that she didn't know Alan Shepard was the first American in space). Granted, I didn't see her in swimsuit, and her eveningwear was nice, but not spectacular. I liked her platform, which is fighting poverty, and she seemed very clever. She wants to be a senator, and she is very focused on helping poor people make the best of their lives, from what I heard her say. She did win third runner up. Miss Oklahoma did an awesome rendition of "Mr. Paganini." For a white girl, she handled the scat very well. Miss Alabama pretty much embarrassed herself with the Footloose, The Musical version of "Holding Out For a Hero." Yeeeagh. I hope they didn't perform it like that on Broadway. I am one of the few people who will admit to liking Wayne Brady, and I thought he did a nice job. He's the perfect guy to be a Miss America Pageant host and sing the song at the end.
I am sad I missed swimsuit, though. Did you know it's about fitness and lifestyle? No unhealthy flab-packages wrapping themselves into girdles allowed in this competition! No visible track-marks or boyfriend-beatings here! Yeah, swimsuit is okay with me. Where it creeps me out is in the teen pageants. Again, yeeagh.
More (and Less) Than Potted Meat
I opened up my personal e-mail account to 49 new messages, 44 of which were spam. The remaining 5 were from lists I am on. How very sad. I unplug my phone for a week and the only voice mails are from pre-recorded telemarketing machines. The only person to call my cell phone in the past week was a friend letting me know that CBS was rerunning Survivor on Saturday. Why do I have this infernal technology if it never gets used?
Hey, who else was pleasantly surprised to see Michael Chiklis win the Emmy for best lead actor in a drama series? I loved him in The Commish. I haven't seen The Shield, but I understand (I saw some previews on FX) that it's a big departure for him. I'm glad he dragged his acceptance speech out.
Speaking of the Emmys, I am more eager than ever to find out where I have seen Peter Krause before. I'm convinced he played a gay character in a "gay" movie, possibly more than once. Before I go to imdb.com, I'm going to guess Long Time Companion and Jeffrey. Back in a flash!
*****************************************
Gah! Of course! Sports Night! How could I be so very, very dense? He played Casey. I am so ashamed. Carry on, people, nothing to see here.
I opened up my personal e-mail account to 49 new messages, 44 of which were spam. The remaining 5 were from lists I am on. How very sad. I unplug my phone for a week and the only voice mails are from pre-recorded telemarketing machines. The only person to call my cell phone in the past week was a friend letting me know that CBS was rerunning Survivor on Saturday. Why do I have this infernal technology if it never gets used?
Hey, who else was pleasantly surprised to see Michael Chiklis win the Emmy for best lead actor in a drama series? I loved him in The Commish. I haven't seen The Shield, but I understand (I saw some previews on FX) that it's a big departure for him. I'm glad he dragged his acceptance speech out.
Speaking of the Emmys, I am more eager than ever to find out where I have seen Peter Krause before. I'm convinced he played a gay character in a "gay" movie, possibly more than once. Before I go to imdb.com, I'm going to guess Long Time Companion and Jeffrey. Back in a flash!
*****************************************
Gah! Of course! Sports Night! How could I be so very, very dense? He played Casey. I am so ashamed. Carry on, people, nothing to see here.
Friday, September 20, 2002
Scary Stuff, Man
This is just scary to me. How are we supposed to be this conquering nation if defense spending is lower than it's been in years? Plus, Bush spends the first part of his administration isolating our country and pulling out of international treaties, then starts declaring the US's right to attack at will and dictate the governments of other countries? WTF? Where the hell does he get off? We may be big badasses, but if every other country in the world gets too pissed off with us, I don't think we could effectively protect ourselves. I just don't see the diplomacy here. The reason I comment so much on the upcoming war is that I'm afraid. I think we should all be afraid of the threat of war. We, the contiguous USA, are not safe from direct attack. It's been made plain that I live in a first-strike area. Back in 1990, when Bush Senior was waging war in the Middle East, the US sat back, as if drugged into complacency by carefully engineered media broadcasts about "Desert Storm," casually displaying yellow ribbons for soldiers they weren't really all that worried about. After all, the memories of Vietnam were fading, and this war seemed so clean. Well, war isn't clean, and I don't personally cotton to the idea of dying in one. Just ask any surviving residents of My Lai or villagers in Afghanistan how easy it is for civilians to be brought into the fray. I'm tired of nobody talking about how wrong this is. And why Iraq? At the same time that the country that harbored, abetted, and financed the terrorists who actually attacked our country are favored guests at the White House, the country that has conceded to allow inspectors back into its country, the country that backed down in the face of threats, is being targeted. Is starting a war with Iraq really the number one priority for the United States? Because if it is, we should probably get on a war footing and stop thinking we can launch a full-scale war without the funding and training we need. Jeez.
Again, sorry for the political tirades, but I don't think it's a good idea to keep our heads in the sand on this one.
This is just scary to me. How are we supposed to be this conquering nation if defense spending is lower than it's been in years? Plus, Bush spends the first part of his administration isolating our country and pulling out of international treaties, then starts declaring the US's right to attack at will and dictate the governments of other countries? WTF? Where the hell does he get off? We may be big badasses, but if every other country in the world gets too pissed off with us, I don't think we could effectively protect ourselves. I just don't see the diplomacy here. The reason I comment so much on the upcoming war is that I'm afraid. I think we should all be afraid of the threat of war. We, the contiguous USA, are not safe from direct attack. It's been made plain that I live in a first-strike area. Back in 1990, when Bush Senior was waging war in the Middle East, the US sat back, as if drugged into complacency by carefully engineered media broadcasts about "Desert Storm," casually displaying yellow ribbons for soldiers they weren't really all that worried about. After all, the memories of Vietnam were fading, and this war seemed so clean. Well, war isn't clean, and I don't personally cotton to the idea of dying in one. Just ask any surviving residents of My Lai or villagers in Afghanistan how easy it is for civilians to be brought into the fray. I'm tired of nobody talking about how wrong this is. And why Iraq? At the same time that the country that harbored, abetted, and financed the terrorists who actually attacked our country are favored guests at the White House, the country that has conceded to allow inspectors back into its country, the country that backed down in the face of threats, is being targeted. Is starting a war with Iraq really the number one priority for the United States? Because if it is, we should probably get on a war footing and stop thinking we can launch a full-scale war without the funding and training we need. Jeez.
Again, sorry for the political tirades, but I don't think it's a good idea to keep our heads in the sand on this one.
Call a Spade a Spade
I wish people, and by that I mean politicians, could just say what they think and stand behind it, instead of having to backpeddle and kiss the possibly offended person's ass. I also wish you could say the name "Hitler" without all knees in the room hitting the underside of the table. Seriously, this "don't say bad things about Bush or he'll get you next" envirnoment is frightening. This dude should so not be allowed to direct military operations. Just two more years until we have a chance to fix this mess!
I Am Not Making This Up
I'm enjoying Dave Barry's new book, Dave Barry Hits Below the Beltway. I've been a fan of Dave Barry for years. My dad would cut his columns out of the paper for me, and I would read a month's (or a year's!) worth at a sitting. I have a few of his books, and I even received a signed copy of one of them for my birthday from my old pop. He's the kind of writer that makes me laugh out loud. I have a feeling he wrote this book while enjoying a lot of beer, because it's just out there. Very wacky, but chock full of real information about government and, most comically, South Florida. For instance, did you know that the current and immediate-past mayors of Miami are nicknamed "Crazy Joe" and "Mayor Loco"? It's true! The mayor of Hialeah was reelected twice while he was appealing a conviction on racketeering and extortion charges. Also true. South Florida is overrrun with lizards and amphibians of every kind, and also retired people. This is all very hilarious when you read it as explained by Dave Barry, of course. It's also the first time I've read about Gary Hart in years. Blah, blah, blah, go out and pick it up if you like a fast read that makes you snort milk out of your nose while also making you feel better about not being able to do anything about our twisted political system.
I wish people, and by that I mean politicians, could just say what they think and stand behind it, instead of having to backpeddle and kiss the possibly offended person's ass. I also wish you could say the name "Hitler" without all knees in the room hitting the underside of the table. Seriously, this "don't say bad things about Bush or he'll get you next" envirnoment is frightening. This dude should so not be allowed to direct military operations. Just two more years until we have a chance to fix this mess!
I Am Not Making This Up
I'm enjoying Dave Barry's new book, Dave Barry Hits Below the Beltway. I've been a fan of Dave Barry for years. My dad would cut his columns out of the paper for me, and I would read a month's (or a year's!) worth at a sitting. I have a few of his books, and I even received a signed copy of one of them for my birthday from my old pop. He's the kind of writer that makes me laugh out loud. I have a feeling he wrote this book while enjoying a lot of beer, because it's just out there. Very wacky, but chock full of real information about government and, most comically, South Florida. For instance, did you know that the current and immediate-past mayors of Miami are nicknamed "Crazy Joe" and "Mayor Loco"? It's true! The mayor of Hialeah was reelected twice while he was appealing a conviction on racketeering and extortion charges. Also true. South Florida is overrrun with lizards and amphibians of every kind, and also retired people. This is all very hilarious when you read it as explained by Dave Barry, of course. It's also the first time I've read about Gary Hart in years. Blah, blah, blah, go out and pick it up if you like a fast read that makes you snort milk out of your nose while also making you feel better about not being able to do anything about our twisted political system.
Thursday, September 19, 2002
Dude!
Eeek! Ohmigod, I couldn't even think of a clever headline for this one. Run, don't walk to the newest Ricky's at 509 Fifth Avenue (42nd Street, NYC)! It's scheduled to open today, and is bigger and better than all previous locations, even featuring a hair salon that "will only do funky cuts and wild color jobs." Like a low-rent (I hope!) Patricia Field's. Yow, yow, yow! I'm so excited! Ricky's is expanding big time, all over the city and out to Hollywood and SoBe. Neat-o skeeto, I say. Time for some fake-hair and eyelashes shopping.
Eeek! Ohmigod, I couldn't even think of a clever headline for this one. Run, don't walk to the newest Ricky's at 509 Fifth Avenue (42nd Street, NYC)! It's scheduled to open today, and is bigger and better than all previous locations, even featuring a hair salon that "will only do funky cuts and wild color jobs." Like a low-rent (I hope!) Patricia Field's. Yow, yow, yow! I'm so excited! Ricky's is expanding big time, all over the city and out to Hollywood and SoBe. Neat-o skeeto, I say. Time for some fake-hair and eyelashes shopping.
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