Well, it's over.
The rehearsals, the stomach jitters, the exhaustion, the accolades, the applause. Menopause the Musical was a smashing success, the only time in RiverTowne Repertory Players' 7-year history that all performances of a show sold out before opening night. And considering there were 10 performances, that's saying something. All good things must end.
And apparently, according to several sources close to me, it's given me a new lease on life. I seem to be a different person now, someone who's changed for the better. Actually, I do feel differently, in a good way. But I think the show is only a part of it.
The last 8 months of my life have brought major changes. In order: I sold my house, my father died, I moved (acquiring my mom as a roommate in the process), the holidays and all the rush and hubbub that entails, my aunt died, and then Menopause, which has dominated the last 2½ months of my life.
When I was asked to be in the cast of Menopause, I thought at the time that the opportunity was a Godsend and the shot in the arm I needed. And that has proven to be correct. But actually my….rejuvenation, if you will, is due to several factors.
My decision to sell my house led to being able to pay off all my debt and live debt-free, which allowed me to quit my second job after 4 years. I now have more time for spending time with friends, family and pursuing other interests, including more opportunities for participating in theater activities.
My father's death has brought my sister and me even closer. My aunt's death has given my cousins and me opportunities to re-connect, including some cousins we haven't seen or had contact with in years. One of life's lessons seems to be that even the saddest of circumstances brings blessings if we will only look for them.
My health seems to have stabilized and my arthritis is under control. And I'm finally taking positive steps in getting healthier in losing weight and exercising regularly.
And finally, being in Menopause, and the show's uplifting and positive message, has made me appreciate this stage in my life. It also cemented and deepened old friendships, and gave me an opportunity for cherished new ones.
I feel better, mentally, physically and emotionally, than I have in years. Life is good.
I've got a new attitude!!
Lyrics for Patti LaBelle's "New Attitude"
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Break a Leg
In theater, if one wants to wish an actor or crew member good luck with a show, one says "Break a leg". It’s bad luck to say "Good Luck". More about this later.
As most of my family and friends (cyber and otherwise) know, I have been involved for the last 2+ months in our local theater production of "Menopause The Musical". I won’t go into my reasons for wanting to be in this show, or what it’s about. I’ve covered those subjects in other blogs.
This blog is a tribute to some people I consider myself blessed to know.
There’s our director, Ruth Waters. I’ve known Ruth and her family since I was in my mid-teens. I’ve worked with her on numerous productions, on stage and backstage. As a director, she is demanding, a perfectionist, and a true workhorse. I’ve watched her pull performances out of her actors they didn’t even know they were capable of. She is, in my estimation, one of the best I’ve ever worked with. You can bet if you’re seeing a play directed by Ruth, you will see top-notch entertainment, with a thoroughly prepared cast and crew. She gives 100% of herself as a director, and she expects nothing less from her cast and crew. This production is a demanding one, and I believe that under a less talented director it would not be the dazzling show it promises to be. Her instincts are always spot-on. Thank you, Ruth, for your hard work and dedication.
Then there’s our musical director, Anne-Marie Skogsbakken. Anne-Marie is a gifted musician and a classically trained pianist. She has been the Musical Director for 2 or 3 shows a year for the last 6 years, for 2 theater groups, all while working full time and keeping up with a home, family life and other interests. I don’t know how she does it. She has done an extraordinary job in helping the cast with the difficult timing, harmonies, and syncopation in the music of this show, and in several cases has utilized her considerable musical skill to improvise in order to make things a little easier for us, the cast. Thank you, Anne-Marie, for sharing your talents with us, for your hard work, for your patience, and for your friendship.
There’s our choreographer, Roxann Belrose. I didn’t know Roxann before this production, but I am so glad she was a part of it! She has a natural rhythm, a sweet, positive personality, a wonderful sense of humor, and a beautiful smile that never fails to lift spirits. We needed her so much for this production and she was the perfect choreographer for us. Thank you, Roxann, for your patience, your encouragement and your friendship. I’m so blessed to have met you!
Then there’s my fellow cast members, all amazingly talented and wonderful women. We were friends before this show, but we have bonded and grown closer as the months have passed:
Ann Sorocki, who is one of the warmest, sweetest, most genuine people I’ve ever met. Ann is a tiny woman with a big, beautiful voice. She never fails to give someone a warm smile, a word of encouragement, an ear to listen, or a shoulder to cry on. I love you Ann.
Beth Foley, who kept us laughing through long, exhausting and sometimes frustrating rehearsals. I know she’s been a blessing and a rock to her mother, director Ruth Waters, during the run of rehearsals for this show. Despite suffering a family loss during the last month, she always came to rehearsals prepared, and never failed to crack us up with her wonderful sense of humor. I love you Beth.
Dottie Hollatschek, who, along with Ruth, had a dream for RiverTowne to produce this show, and is seeing it come to fruition. Dottie called me last year and said "I would love for us to do this show and I see you in it…there’s a perfect part for you!", which I have since learned was exactly the part I’m playing, Iowa Housewife. Dottie has also had some personal family crises during the run of rehearsals, but has stuck with it despite everything, and has made her character uniquely her own with her amazing talent. I love you Dottie.
And finally, I reserve the last kudo to a woman of extraordinary courage and dedication…Pat Hughes.
Pat is one of the unsung heroes in theater, television or movie production – the behind-the-scenes person. She’s our Stage Manager, but she is so very much more. Not only does she work on building practically every set in every RiverTowne production, she also directs and acts and has been Stage Manager for too many productions to mention here. She’s our all-around keep-it-together person when we’re running around panicking and looking for a prop or costume, cueing the lights, cueing the sound, offering words of encouragement and support…in short, being indispensable. She never fails to offer a hug or a wise crack to keep us laughing.
This past Friday, after a great and fun rehearsal, Pat missed the steps that lead from the stage to the floor, fell about 3½ feet and broke her ankle and the lower bone in her leg. Fortunately she was not alone at the time and others were able to call 911 to get emergency help for her. The injury was a very serious one, a compound fracture, and Pat had to undergo emergency surgery in the wee hours of Saturday morning. She’ll be in the hospital for at least a week.
I went to visit her on Sunday. When I walked into her room, I told her, jokingly, "You do know that ’break a leg’ is only supposed to be a figure of speech, right?!" I asked her how she was doing, and she told me that she was, in her words, "royally pissed", because she will be unable to fulfill her duties as Stage Manager for the show this weekend. She said, "I shouldn’t be in this hospital. I should be backstage where I belong." Incredulously I said, "But Pat, it was an accident! You have to concentrate on healing!" Despite this very serious and debilitating injury, not to mention the pain she’s in, Pat’s foremost thoughts were and are with her cast and crew, and her responsibilities to this show. True to her character, she is determined to fulfill her duties during the second weekend of the show, running things backstage from a wheelchair. That’s Pat.
We have decided as a group that we will no longer use the phrase "break a leg". We have been reminded in an extremely traumatic way that sometimes we tempt fate with the words we utter. Henceforth we will say "shake a leg".
And to our other unsung heroes - Producer Lu Hoff, Lighting Director Rex Hawkins, Sound Director Wray Thomas, our Tech Crew - spotlight guys Matt Foley and Paul Hinckley, Assistant Choreographer and fill-in Sound Guy Derek Jordan, Backstage Crew Dianne Hawkins, Ingrid Pierson and Lisa Gunn (thanks for stepping in when Pat had her accident, Lisa!), Costume Mistress Kay Eynon, Makeup Coordinator Alan Toler..without these folks giving of their time and talent, this production would not be the successful one it promises to be. My humble thanks to you all.
If I’ve forgotten to mention anyone, please accept my humble apologies and sincere thanks.
Get well, Pat…we love and miss you!
And to my fellow cast and crew members....SHAKE A LEG!
As most of my family and friends (cyber and otherwise) know, I have been involved for the last 2+ months in our local theater production of "Menopause The Musical". I won’t go into my reasons for wanting to be in this show, or what it’s about. I’ve covered those subjects in other blogs.
This blog is a tribute to some people I consider myself blessed to know.
There’s our director, Ruth Waters. I’ve known Ruth and her family since I was in my mid-teens. I’ve worked with her on numerous productions, on stage and backstage. As a director, she is demanding, a perfectionist, and a true workhorse. I’ve watched her pull performances out of her actors they didn’t even know they were capable of. She is, in my estimation, one of the best I’ve ever worked with. You can bet if you’re seeing a play directed by Ruth, you will see top-notch entertainment, with a thoroughly prepared cast and crew. She gives 100% of herself as a director, and she expects nothing less from her cast and crew. This production is a demanding one, and I believe that under a less talented director it would not be the dazzling show it promises to be. Her instincts are always spot-on. Thank you, Ruth, for your hard work and dedication.
Then there’s our musical director, Anne-Marie Skogsbakken. Anne-Marie is a gifted musician and a classically trained pianist. She has been the Musical Director for 2 or 3 shows a year for the last 6 years, for 2 theater groups, all while working full time and keeping up with a home, family life and other interests. I don’t know how she does it. She has done an extraordinary job in helping the cast with the difficult timing, harmonies, and syncopation in the music of this show, and in several cases has utilized her considerable musical skill to improvise in order to make things a little easier for us, the cast. Thank you, Anne-Marie, for sharing your talents with us, for your hard work, for your patience, and for your friendship.
There’s our choreographer, Roxann Belrose. I didn’t know Roxann before this production, but I am so glad she was a part of it! She has a natural rhythm, a sweet, positive personality, a wonderful sense of humor, and a beautiful smile that never fails to lift spirits. We needed her so much for this production and she was the perfect choreographer for us. Thank you, Roxann, for your patience, your encouragement and your friendship. I’m so blessed to have met you!
Then there’s my fellow cast members, all amazingly talented and wonderful women. We were friends before this show, but we have bonded and grown closer as the months have passed:
Ann Sorocki, who is one of the warmest, sweetest, most genuine people I’ve ever met. Ann is a tiny woman with a big, beautiful voice. She never fails to give someone a warm smile, a word of encouragement, an ear to listen, or a shoulder to cry on. I love you Ann.
Beth Foley, who kept us laughing through long, exhausting and sometimes frustrating rehearsals. I know she’s been a blessing and a rock to her mother, director Ruth Waters, during the run of rehearsals for this show. Despite suffering a family loss during the last month, she always came to rehearsals prepared, and never failed to crack us up with her wonderful sense of humor. I love you Beth.
Dottie Hollatschek, who, along with Ruth, had a dream for RiverTowne to produce this show, and is seeing it come to fruition. Dottie called me last year and said "I would love for us to do this show and I see you in it…there’s a perfect part for you!", which I have since learned was exactly the part I’m playing, Iowa Housewife. Dottie has also had some personal family crises during the run of rehearsals, but has stuck with it despite everything, and has made her character uniquely her own with her amazing talent. I love you Dottie.
And finally, I reserve the last kudo to a woman of extraordinary courage and dedication…Pat Hughes.
Pat is one of the unsung heroes in theater, television or movie production – the behind-the-scenes person. She’s our Stage Manager, but she is so very much more. Not only does she work on building practically every set in every RiverTowne production, she also directs and acts and has been Stage Manager for too many productions to mention here. She’s our all-around keep-it-together person when we’re running around panicking and looking for a prop or costume, cueing the lights, cueing the sound, offering words of encouragement and support…in short, being indispensable. She never fails to offer a hug or a wise crack to keep us laughing.
This past Friday, after a great and fun rehearsal, Pat missed the steps that lead from the stage to the floor, fell about 3½ feet and broke her ankle and the lower bone in her leg. Fortunately she was not alone at the time and others were able to call 911 to get emergency help for her. The injury was a very serious one, a compound fracture, and Pat had to undergo emergency surgery in the wee hours of Saturday morning. She’ll be in the hospital for at least a week.
I went to visit her on Sunday. When I walked into her room, I told her, jokingly, "You do know that ’break a leg’ is only supposed to be a figure of speech, right?!" I asked her how she was doing, and she told me that she was, in her words, "royally pissed", because she will be unable to fulfill her duties as Stage Manager for the show this weekend. She said, "I shouldn’t be in this hospital. I should be backstage where I belong." Incredulously I said, "But Pat, it was an accident! You have to concentrate on healing!" Despite this very serious and debilitating injury, not to mention the pain she’s in, Pat’s foremost thoughts were and are with her cast and crew, and her responsibilities to this show. True to her character, she is determined to fulfill her duties during the second weekend of the show, running things backstage from a wheelchair. That’s Pat.
We have decided as a group that we will no longer use the phrase "break a leg". We have been reminded in an extremely traumatic way that sometimes we tempt fate with the words we utter. Henceforth we will say "shake a leg".
And to our other unsung heroes - Producer Lu Hoff, Lighting Director Rex Hawkins, Sound Director Wray Thomas, our Tech Crew - spotlight guys Matt Foley and Paul Hinckley, Assistant Choreographer and fill-in Sound Guy Derek Jordan, Backstage Crew Dianne Hawkins, Ingrid Pierson and Lisa Gunn (thanks for stepping in when Pat had her accident, Lisa!), Costume Mistress Kay Eynon, Makeup Coordinator Alan Toler..without these folks giving of their time and talent, this production would not be the successful one it promises to be. My humble thanks to you all.
If I’ve forgotten to mention anyone, please accept my humble apologies and sincere thanks.
Get well, Pat…we love and miss you!
And to my fellow cast and crew members....SHAKE A LEG!
Saturday, March 1, 2008
In Celebration of Mature Women!
The following is my response to a nasty comment left by someone who calls him/herself "Ragsdalevongrump" about a YouTube video featuring one of the stars of the Indianapolis production of Menopause the Musical, inviting everyone to come out and see the show. Ragsdalevongrump's exact words were: "why would we want to watch this dog for 2 hours??"
Ah the arrogance of youth. I can't let this one slide by.
Hey Ragsdalevongrump:
I'm assuming you're young, and a male. If so, then I've got some news for you: assuming you live to middle age, one day you will no longer attract the "hot" 20-something girls, and if you mature and if you're still single, hopefully you will be attracted to women your own age who, even though they have some wrinkles, gray hairs and a body that's no longer as tight as it once was, they will be self-assured, confident, and secure in the knowledge that their beauty is on the inside, where it counts. And that their life experiences have made them the strong, beautiful women they are.
If you're female, may I remind you that assuming you live to middle age, one day you will no longer attract the "hot" 20-something guys. YOU will go through menopause too, and experience what women have been going through since Eve had her first hot flash.
Here's a newsflash for you: we mature "dogs" still enjoy life, sex, romance, rock and roll, dancing, laughter and love. Life does not stop at middle age or even old age.
Three other women and I are currently starring in Menopause The Musical in my hometown. It's a wonderful hilarious show about the natural passage in every woman's life, celebrating women "of a certain age", who are about to experience, are experiencing, or have made it through menopause. Before you so blithely and callously dismiss this "dog", grow up and check out the show if you get the chance to see it. It will make you laugh and might, just might, raise your consciousness and make you realize that your mother, grandmother, aunt(s), sister(s), niece(s), future girlfriends or wife have been through it or will go through it.
For the record, the show is only 1½ hour. And I'd like to see YOU up there on that stage singing, dancing, and reciting memorized lines for an hour and a half, in heels, with no break or intermission. For 10 performances. And keep in mind the youngest of us is 49. Put that in your pipe and smoke it. Or stick it where the sun don't shine.
Ah the arrogance of youth. I can't let this one slide by.
Hey Ragsdalevongrump:
I'm assuming you're young, and a male. If so, then I've got some news for you: assuming you live to middle age, one day you will no longer attract the "hot" 20-something girls, and if you mature and if you're still single, hopefully you will be attracted to women your own age who, even though they have some wrinkles, gray hairs and a body that's no longer as tight as it once was, they will be self-assured, confident, and secure in the knowledge that their beauty is on the inside, where it counts. And that their life experiences have made them the strong, beautiful women they are.
If you're female, may I remind you that assuming you live to middle age, one day you will no longer attract the "hot" 20-something guys. YOU will go through menopause too, and experience what women have been going through since Eve had her first hot flash.
Here's a newsflash for you: we mature "dogs" still enjoy life, sex, romance, rock and roll, dancing, laughter and love. Life does not stop at middle age or even old age.
Three other women and I are currently starring in Menopause The Musical in my hometown. It's a wonderful hilarious show about the natural passage in every woman's life, celebrating women "of a certain age", who are about to experience, are experiencing, or have made it through menopause. Before you so blithely and callously dismiss this "dog", grow up and check out the show if you get the chance to see it. It will make you laugh and might, just might, raise your consciousness and make you realize that your mother, grandmother, aunt(s), sister(s), niece(s), future girlfriends or wife have been through it or will go through it.
For the record, the show is only 1½ hour. And I'd like to see YOU up there on that stage singing, dancing, and reciting memorized lines for an hour and a half, in heels, with no break or intermission. For 10 performances. And keep in mind the youngest of us is 49. Put that in your pipe and smoke it. Or stick it where the sun don't shine.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Random Thoughts Late on a Saturday Night
Even though the death of my father has made me a little better off financially, I'd gladly go back to working 2 jobs, scraping a living and living paycheck to paycheck to have him back again.
It's been 4 years since I was on stage. And now, being cast in Menopause the Musical, a play I've wanted to be in since first hearing about it 3 years ago...it just doesn't seem like work to me. The hours of rehearsals, the late nights, the fact that aside from work and rehearsing this show, I will practically have no life for the next 8 to 9 weeks - doesn't matter at all. This show is so much fun, so dynamic, so hilarious, and so ME at this stage of my life, I can't wait for performances to begin, and I intend to give 150% of myself in this show.
I love my dog Powder so much it sometimes makes me cry.
I'd give anything to be as young as I feel inside.
I'm an independent woman who cherishes her alone time, but sometimes during the long nights when I'm lying in my bed alone, I wish for someone special to be there with me to wrap his arms around me and spoon me. I miss that.
It saddens me that some of my cherished friends are no longer very much a part of my life. I guess that's life though. It's been said that people come into our lives for a season and a reason. I just wish the seasons didn't change so much or so often.
My favorite author is Stephen King, but even I, a devoted fan, admit that lately the stuff he writes just doesn't grab me like his earlier works did.
I love the show M*A*S*H. And know for a fact that show would never get on the air today.
For a time I had an extreme crush on and was sort of obsessed with Jake Gyllenhaal. I still admire his talent, will see his movies, and still think he's one of the most gorgeous men to ever walk the planet. But I've moved on from my school-girl crush, and that's a good and healthy thing. However, through my obsession I found a group of friends I will always cherish.
I have finally reached the point where I am fully motivated to do something about my physical condition. My goal is not to be a size 2, but to be as fit and healthy as I can be at 53. I want to get my body back to the place where it works as nature intended. I will not become a statistic....an over-50-year-old with high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol, a prime candidate for a heart attack or stroke. I want to lose 35 pounds, shape my body and burn fat. And kick my soda and sugar addictions. If I can quit smoking cold turkey 25 years ago, I can certainly do this. And if I look great in shorts and a tank top when I've reach my goal, so much the better.
It's been 4 years since I was on stage. And now, being cast in Menopause the Musical, a play I've wanted to be in since first hearing about it 3 years ago...it just doesn't seem like work to me. The hours of rehearsals, the late nights, the fact that aside from work and rehearsing this show, I will practically have no life for the next 8 to 9 weeks - doesn't matter at all. This show is so much fun, so dynamic, so hilarious, and so ME at this stage of my life, I can't wait for performances to begin, and I intend to give 150% of myself in this show.
I love my dog Powder so much it sometimes makes me cry.
I'd give anything to be as young as I feel inside.
I'm an independent woman who cherishes her alone time, but sometimes during the long nights when I'm lying in my bed alone, I wish for someone special to be there with me to wrap his arms around me and spoon me. I miss that.
It saddens me that some of my cherished friends are no longer very much a part of my life. I guess that's life though. It's been said that people come into our lives for a season and a reason. I just wish the seasons didn't change so much or so often.
My favorite author is Stephen King, but even I, a devoted fan, admit that lately the stuff he writes just doesn't grab me like his earlier works did.
I love the show M*A*S*H. And know for a fact that show would never get on the air today.
For a time I had an extreme crush on and was sort of obsessed with Jake Gyllenhaal. I still admire his talent, will see his movies, and still think he's one of the most gorgeous men to ever walk the planet. But I've moved on from my school-girl crush, and that's a good and healthy thing. However, through my obsession I found a group of friends I will always cherish.
I have finally reached the point where I am fully motivated to do something about my physical condition. My goal is not to be a size 2, but to be as fit and healthy as I can be at 53. I want to get my body back to the place where it works as nature intended. I will not become a statistic....an over-50-year-old with high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol, a prime candidate for a heart attack or stroke. I want to lose 35 pounds, shape my body and burn fat. And kick my soda and sugar addictions. If I can quit smoking cold turkey 25 years ago, I can certainly do this. And if I look great in shorts and a tank top when I've reach my goal, so much the better.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Farewell to a Unique Talent ~ Heath Ledger
The world lost an incredibly talented and gifted young actor yesterday. Heath Ledger was found dead in his New York apartment. The cause of his death appears to be accidental, which makes this doubly tragic.
I have a group of friends, people I've met over the Internet….through a forum/blog dedicated to Jake Gyllenhaal - Jake Watch. Before anyone dismisses the concept of "cyber friends" and the subject of our admiration (obsession?), let me state I cherish and respect each and every one of these people, and feel as close to them as if I had face-to-face contact with them on a regular basis. We laugh together, cry together, share funny stories and poetry, drool over and gossip about handsome actors, worry about each other, support each other, discuss controversial subjects, wish each other Happy Birthday, and just like regular friends, sometimes we disagree and even get on each other's nerves. One or two I've met face-to-face, but the majority of us have never seen each other aside from our pictures. We are scattered all over the world…the U.K., Sweden, Australia, Italy, Canada, Poland, Iceland, and several states here in the U.S. But we are as close as friends can be, and now, we are devastated and doing our best to comfort each other.
The website I speak of was born out of the release of Brokeback Mountain, the hauntingly beautiful, poetic love story between a ranch hand (Heath Ledger) and a rodeo cowboy (Jake Gyllenhaal). Those who have seen and appreciate this film know what I'm talking about when I say to call it "the gay cowboy movie" (always with slight disdain in one's tone) is to at most insult the story and the film and at least to short-sell it. The movie is emotionally devastating for the majority of people who view it, and even after almost 2 years and multiple viewings it still has the power to deliver an emotional wallop. The film, Heath and Jake were all deservedly nominated for Oscars, and while I'm not in the least taking anything away from Jake's performance, it was Heath who garnered the most attention from critics.
In reviews of the film, Heath was almost unanimously praised for his performance as Ennis del Mar, the young ranch hand who finds the love of his life in Jack Twist (Jake), but denies his feelings, rationalizing them and dismissing them as a "one-shot thing", going on to marry a woman and father two daughters, attempting to live what he considered a "normal life". The overall message of the story was that living a lie, denying one's true self and throwing away the happiness that one's heart knows to be genuine, is destructive in many ways, and in his portrayal, Heath perfectly captured the self-loathing and internal conflict of a man denying who he is and truly loves. Heath literally became Ennis, disappearing inside the character, right down to his gait, his accent, speech and mannerisms. It was an incredibly realistic portrayal and one of the reasons the film is so devastating.
Heath refused to capitalize on his blond, surfer-type, pretty boy looks and often took roles that were off-beat, eccentric and not what you would expect of a young actor only in his 20's. Even in his more light-hearted roles he seemed to bring a depth to the character that any other actor would not have bothered with. He seemed to me to be a unique young man in many ways…very sensitive, intelligent, reclusive and only willing to go just so far to play "the Hollywood game". He was an actor, not a movie star, and that is how he viewed his career.
I feel as if I have lost a very close friend. My heart goes out to his family, and particularly his little 2-year old daughter Matilda. It breaks my heart she will grow up without her father, who was unquestionably devoted to her.
Rest in peace, Heath. We lost you far too soon.
A Soulful Talent: Cherishing Heath Ledger
I have a group of friends, people I've met over the Internet….through a forum/blog dedicated to Jake Gyllenhaal - Jake Watch. Before anyone dismisses the concept of "cyber friends" and the subject of our admiration (obsession?), let me state I cherish and respect each and every one of these people, and feel as close to them as if I had face-to-face contact with them on a regular basis. We laugh together, cry together, share funny stories and poetry, drool over and gossip about handsome actors, worry about each other, support each other, discuss controversial subjects, wish each other Happy Birthday, and just like regular friends, sometimes we disagree and even get on each other's nerves. One or two I've met face-to-face, but the majority of us have never seen each other aside from our pictures. We are scattered all over the world…the U.K., Sweden, Australia, Italy, Canada, Poland, Iceland, and several states here in the U.S. But we are as close as friends can be, and now, we are devastated and doing our best to comfort each other.
The website I speak of was born out of the release of Brokeback Mountain, the hauntingly beautiful, poetic love story between a ranch hand (Heath Ledger) and a rodeo cowboy (Jake Gyllenhaal). Those who have seen and appreciate this film know what I'm talking about when I say to call it "the gay cowboy movie" (always with slight disdain in one's tone) is to at most insult the story and the film and at least to short-sell it. The movie is emotionally devastating for the majority of people who view it, and even after almost 2 years and multiple viewings it still has the power to deliver an emotional wallop. The film, Heath and Jake were all deservedly nominated for Oscars, and while I'm not in the least taking anything away from Jake's performance, it was Heath who garnered the most attention from critics.
In reviews of the film, Heath was almost unanimously praised for his performance as Ennis del Mar, the young ranch hand who finds the love of his life in Jack Twist (Jake), but denies his feelings, rationalizing them and dismissing them as a "one-shot thing", going on to marry a woman and father two daughters, attempting to live what he considered a "normal life". The overall message of the story was that living a lie, denying one's true self and throwing away the happiness that one's heart knows to be genuine, is destructive in many ways, and in his portrayal, Heath perfectly captured the self-loathing and internal conflict of a man denying who he is and truly loves. Heath literally became Ennis, disappearing inside the character, right down to his gait, his accent, speech and mannerisms. It was an incredibly realistic portrayal and one of the reasons the film is so devastating.
Heath refused to capitalize on his blond, surfer-type, pretty boy looks and often took roles that were off-beat, eccentric and not what you would expect of a young actor only in his 20's. Even in his more light-hearted roles he seemed to bring a depth to the character that any other actor would not have bothered with. He seemed to me to be a unique young man in many ways…very sensitive, intelligent, reclusive and only willing to go just so far to play "the Hollywood game". He was an actor, not a movie star, and that is how he viewed his career.
I feel as if I have lost a very close friend. My heart goes out to his family, and particularly his little 2-year old daughter Matilda. It breaks my heart she will grow up without her father, who was unquestionably devoted to her.
Rest in peace, Heath. We lost you far too soon.
A Soulful Talent: Cherishing Heath Ledger
Friday, January 11, 2008
January 11
This morning I awoke, got out of bed and proceeded to start my morning routine. Then it hit me: Today would have been my father's 82nd birthday.
Surprisingly, this didn't make me depressed, only sort of wistfully nostalgic. Normally I would have called him this morning and said over the phone, "Happy Birth-day ta yewwwwwwww!!!!" (old family joke). It makes me sad that I'll never say that to him again, or hear him say it to me, but I can carry on the tradition and say it to my other family members, who will immediately understand the reason I say it that way.
A few minutes ago, my sister called to tell me that my Aunt Kathleen, who at 88 was the oldest and last survivor of the 4 Edwards siblings, died at 12:00 today at the Masonic-Eastern Star Home in Greensboro. On Daddy's birthday. What could be more appropriate?
And so now they're all up there in Heaven, talking about old times, happy, laughing and feeling good. No arthritis, no Alzheimers, no heart ailments....just the spirited, lively Edwards siblings - Kathleen, Archie, C.B. and Mary Louise, reunited once again. When I picture that in my mind, it makes me smile.
I love and miss you, Daddy, and although I still have moments of profound grief, losing you is getting a little less painful every day. Gradually, I'm learning to go on without you, and it's okay.
Happy Birthday.
Surprisingly, this didn't make me depressed, only sort of wistfully nostalgic. Normally I would have called him this morning and said over the phone, "Happy Birth-day ta yewwwwwwww!!!!" (old family joke). It makes me sad that I'll never say that to him again, or hear him say it to me, but I can carry on the tradition and say it to my other family members, who will immediately understand the reason I say it that way.
A few minutes ago, my sister called to tell me that my Aunt Kathleen, who at 88 was the oldest and last survivor of the 4 Edwards siblings, died at 12:00 today at the Masonic-Eastern Star Home in Greensboro. On Daddy's birthday. What could be more appropriate?
And so now they're all up there in Heaven, talking about old times, happy, laughing and feeling good. No arthritis, no Alzheimers, no heart ailments....just the spirited, lively Edwards siblings - Kathleen, Archie, C.B. and Mary Louise, reunited once again. When I picture that in my mind, it makes me smile.
I love and miss you, Daddy, and although I still have moments of profound grief, losing you is getting a little less painful every day. Gradually, I'm learning to go on without you, and it's okay.
Happy Birthday.
Sunday, January 6, 2008
A Wish Fulfilled
My nephew Benjamin is a unique kid. He's very laconic, laid back and a little reserved, unusual for a 10-year old boy. He speaks quietly, is a little shy, and has to study hard for his grades. But he has an infectious, joyous laugh and is very smart – not much gets by him. He is a wonderful kid, with a typical boy's love for typical boy things – skateboards, tractors, computer games. And now, he loves a little dog, who he named Sophie.
Kids and dogs just naturally go together, and Benjamin is no exception. He discovered a love for animals after bonding with his sister's dog Daisy and my dog Powder 3 years ago. He also learned that with pets comes responsibility – they need to be walked, fed, watered and taken out to "do their business". It is a responsibility he takes very seriously and does well.
He has wanted a dog of his own for a few years now, but for several reasons the time just wasn't right for his mom and dad to grant his fondest wish. This year was different. My sister had been looking for just the right dog, and finally found her just before Christmas, with the help of my niece Jessica and her friend Melissa.
In order for the puppy to be a surprise for Benjamin, my mom and I agreed to keep her at our house from Friday, December 21st until Christmas morning. From the moment she appeared on our doorstep, held in my sister's arms, Mom and I fell completely in love. At the time she didn't have a name yet (we felt naming her should be Benjamin's privilege), and we called her "little girl". She's a 12-week old, tiny, heartbreakingly adorable Dachsund-mix, and from the get-go made herself at home, established a solid relationship with her cousin Powder, and completely made herself the center of attention. She is playful, inquisitive and not afraid of anything. Mom and I became so attached to this little girl and we knew that letting her go would be hard, but we couldn't wait for Benjamin to finally get his wish.
So the big moment came. On Christmas morning Mom and I drove over to my sister's house with the puppy in Mom's lap. My niece Jessica came out to the car, took the puppy into her arms and walked into the house. Benjamin looked up and said matter-of-factly, "Oh it's a puppy." Just like that. Jessica said, somewhat indignantly (I think she was a little disappointed with Benjamin's less-than-ecstatic reaction), "She's YOUR puppy!" And Benjamin took the little dog in his arms, sat down on the sofa, and within 5 minutes had named her: Sophie. He told his mother later that the reason for his lack of excitement when she came in was because he didn't realize or believe that Sophie could actually be his.
Sophie and Benjamin are inseparable. It is a match made in heaven. He pretty much ignores his computer games, his RipStik, his DVD's, and anything else he got from Santa. Sophie sleeps in her own bed, which is on Benjamin's bed. She is truly a wish come true for a very special, deserving young boy.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Once again, proof that greatness never fades
Note: I was privileged to see Page & Plant in concert in 1998, although they were not touring with John Paul Jones and Jason Bonham. The tour was to promote their new cd, titled Page & Plant. However, the concert featured about 85% of Led Zeppelin tunes. Unfortunately, the concert did not include "Stairway To Heaven" and the fabulous, hypnotic "Kashmir", but the dudes had lost nothing talent- or performance-wise, and from the article below, it sounds as if 10 years hasn't put a dent in it either. It confirms what we Zep fans have always known: There will never be another band greater than Led Zeppelin, period. What I wouldn't have given to be at that concert in London!
Led Zeppelin's Live Reunion: Rockin' 'Good Times'
Dec. 10, 2007, 6:53 PM EST
By Alan Light
Special to MSN Music It may have been a long time since they rock and rolled, but it sure didn't feel that way Monday night in London at Led Zeppelin's long awaited, wildly anticipated reunion concert. Headlining a show paying tribute to Ahmet Ertegun, the late co-founder of Atlantic Records, the three surviving members of one of rock's biggest bands - singer Robert Plant, guitarist Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones on bass and keyboards - joined Jason Bonham, the son of their legendary drummer, John Bonham, for their first full-length performance since the elder Bonham's death in 1980.
There were numerous questions hanging over this show: Could Plant still hit those signature high notes? Could Page still pull off his magnificent, complex parts, especially after a finger injury that delayed this appearance by two weeks? Could Bonham possibly fill the chair of his larger-than-life and endlessly inventive father? Over the course of a two hour-and-ten minute set, the 21st Century Zeppelin answered all of those doubts - and then went further.
Following a motley, uninspired hour of music by other British acts on Atlantic (including Foreigner, former Rolling Stones bass player Bill Wyman, and a prog-rock all-star team with members of Yes, Bad Company, and Emerson, Lake, and Palmer), Zeppelin opened its show with "Good Times Bad Times," the first track on its 1969 debut album. The 15 songs that followed read like the playlist of every classic rock radio station: "Black Dog," "Whole Lotta Love," "Misty Mountain Hop," and, of course, the band's magnum opus, "Stairway to Heaven," which Plant gave a surprisingly intimate and heartfelt treatment.
It took a few songs for Zeppelin to fully find its feet, and to find the right sound mix.
By the fourth number, though, a thunderous version of "In My Time of Dying," the foursome reminded everyone in the O2 Arena (who had reportedly traveled from 50 countries for this night) that no other band ever sounded like this one, merging blues, rock, and folk into a noise that was purely their own. Other than a torridly funky "Trampled Underfoot," the faster songs generally felt like they could have used another week of rehearsal - without the full access to his upper register, Plant sometimes struggled to be heard about the glorious din.
But the heart of the show stayed firmly in a slow-to-medium sweet spot, demonstrating once again that it was Led Zeppelin that truly put the "heavy" in heavy metal. Page was in command of his full arsenal, from swooping slides to slashing, angular flurries, and Bonham more than held his own propelling this mammoth sound, confidently navigating the precise stops-and-starts and shifting tempos that define Zeppelin's attack. It climaxed in a majestic, thrilling version of the Middle Eastern-tinged epic "Kashmir," which closed the main set.
For a band once known as rock's holiest terrors, this reunion created a full-on case of Zep-mania in London: Newspapers were blanketed with coverage, buskers in tube stations were playing Zeppelin songs. The band members have been carefully noncommittal about whether a tour will follow this show, saying they needed to see how the O2 date went before making any decisions. From the grins on their faces, don't be surprised if we see them again soon. But regardless, fans should rejoice - at least for this one night, Led Zeppelin was truly back. Like the song says, dancing days are here again.
Led Zeppelin's Live Reunion: Rockin' 'Good Times'
Dec. 10, 2007, 6:53 PM EST
By Alan Light
Special to MSN Music It may have been a long time since they rock and rolled, but it sure didn't feel that way Monday night in London at Led Zeppelin's long awaited, wildly anticipated reunion concert. Headlining a show paying tribute to Ahmet Ertegun, the late co-founder of Atlantic Records, the three surviving members of one of rock's biggest bands - singer Robert Plant, guitarist Jimmy Page, and John Paul Jones on bass and keyboards - joined Jason Bonham, the son of their legendary drummer, John Bonham, for their first full-length performance since the elder Bonham's death in 1980.
There were numerous questions hanging over this show: Could Plant still hit those signature high notes? Could Page still pull off his magnificent, complex parts, especially after a finger injury that delayed this appearance by two weeks? Could Bonham possibly fill the chair of his larger-than-life and endlessly inventive father? Over the course of a two hour-and-ten minute set, the 21st Century Zeppelin answered all of those doubts - and then went further.
Following a motley, uninspired hour of music by other British acts on Atlantic (including Foreigner, former Rolling Stones bass player Bill Wyman, and a prog-rock all-star team with members of Yes, Bad Company, and Emerson, Lake, and Palmer), Zeppelin opened its show with "Good Times Bad Times," the first track on its 1969 debut album. The 15 songs that followed read like the playlist of every classic rock radio station: "Black Dog," "Whole Lotta Love," "Misty Mountain Hop," and, of course, the band's magnum opus, "Stairway to Heaven," which Plant gave a surprisingly intimate and heartfelt treatment.
It took a few songs for Zeppelin to fully find its feet, and to find the right sound mix.
By the fourth number, though, a thunderous version of "In My Time of Dying," the foursome reminded everyone in the O2 Arena (who had reportedly traveled from 50 countries for this night) that no other band ever sounded like this one, merging blues, rock, and folk into a noise that was purely their own. Other than a torridly funky "Trampled Underfoot," the faster songs generally felt like they could have used another week of rehearsal - without the full access to his upper register, Plant sometimes struggled to be heard about the glorious din.
But the heart of the show stayed firmly in a slow-to-medium sweet spot, demonstrating once again that it was Led Zeppelin that truly put the "heavy" in heavy metal. Page was in command of his full arsenal, from swooping slides to slashing, angular flurries, and Bonham more than held his own propelling this mammoth sound, confidently navigating the precise stops-and-starts and shifting tempos that define Zeppelin's attack. It climaxed in a majestic, thrilling version of the Middle Eastern-tinged epic "Kashmir," which closed the main set.
For a band once known as rock's holiest terrors, this reunion created a full-on case of Zep-mania in London: Newspapers were blanketed with coverage, buskers in tube stations were playing Zeppelin songs. The band members have been carefully noncommittal about whether a tour will follow this show, saying they needed to see how the O2 date went before making any decisions. From the grins on their faces, don't be surprised if we see them again soon. But regardless, fans should rejoice - at least for this one night, Led Zeppelin was truly back. Like the song says, dancing days are here again.
Friday, December 7, 2007
Scrooge....after the visits from the 3 ghosts
A few days ago, I posted a blog on the things that annoy me about the Christmas season. So that I don't come off as a total Scrooge, herewith I list the things I love about this holiday:
Christmas Eve service and singing "Silent Night" in the candlelight. Every year, although it only lasts about 30 - 45 minutes, this simple service gives me a feeling of peace I cannot describe in words.
Pumpkin pie, my cousin's 14-layer chocolate cake, and homemade eggnog. Yes they are worth the calories.
The children's Christmas program at my church. It always centers around the telling of the Nativity, and the youngest children in the church are the animals. When those little 1-, 2- and 3-year old sheep, cows and donkeys walk down that church aisle, complete with tails and little ears, I defy anyone not to grin from ear to ear and say "AWWWW!!!" Absolutely ADORABLE
Breakfast at my sister's house on Christmas morning. It's nothing fancy, just normal breakfast stuff, but the food is wonderful and the together time in the lights of the Christmas tree is even better.
Christmas music. My mother is a talented musician and music is a huge part of her life. The Christmas music I grew up listening to has become an important and vital part of my personal holiday celebration.
Family traditions - The gathering of my dad's side of the family every Christmas Eve; our family's routine on Christmas morning. The traditions have changed over the years as our lives have evolved and changed, but the traditions of the past and the present serve to make us who we are.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, A Charlie Brown Christmas, How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Enough said.
Decorating my house and hanging the stockings on the mantle. Last year I got new ones for Powder and me and put our names on them. This year I'll add a third one…one that says "Peggy", for my mom.
Once again, decorating the tree with the very fragile and cherished Christmas tree ornaments from my childhood. I have about a dozen of them, and even though a few of them have chipped paint or are worn in spots, they're still beautiful to me and represent my growing up years and the memories associated with those years. And now that my dad has passed on, those ornaments are even more precious to me.
The smells – evergreen, cinnamon, apples, pumpkin pie, sugar cookies baking.
The shining eyes of children at all the sights and sounds.
Smiling at a stranger and saying "Merry Christmas".
Christmas caroling.
Food for thought: There is nothing on earth more peaceful than sitting in the glow of the Christmas tree lights, the gifts wrapped and under the tree, with a fire going, drinking hot cocoa or good coffee, watching "A Christmas Carol" on the DVD player, while the wind howls outside and the thermometer dips into the 30's. I wouldn't trade those moments for all the money in the world, would you?
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy New Year, everyone!
Christmas Eve service and singing "Silent Night" in the candlelight. Every year, although it only lasts about 30 - 45 minutes, this simple service gives me a feeling of peace I cannot describe in words.
Pumpkin pie, my cousin's 14-layer chocolate cake, and homemade eggnog. Yes they are worth the calories.
The children's Christmas program at my church. It always centers around the telling of the Nativity, and the youngest children in the church are the animals. When those little 1-, 2- and 3-year old sheep, cows and donkeys walk down that church aisle, complete with tails and little ears, I defy anyone not to grin from ear to ear and say "AWWWW!!!" Absolutely ADORABLE
Breakfast at my sister's house on Christmas morning. It's nothing fancy, just normal breakfast stuff, but the food is wonderful and the together time in the lights of the Christmas tree is even better.
Christmas music. My mother is a talented musician and music is a huge part of her life. The Christmas music I grew up listening to has become an important and vital part of my personal holiday celebration.
Family traditions - The gathering of my dad's side of the family every Christmas Eve; our family's routine on Christmas morning. The traditions have changed over the years as our lives have evolved and changed, but the traditions of the past and the present serve to make us who we are.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, A Charlie Brown Christmas, How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Enough said.
Decorating my house and hanging the stockings on the mantle. Last year I got new ones for Powder and me and put our names on them. This year I'll add a third one…one that says "Peggy", for my mom.
Once again, decorating the tree with the very fragile and cherished Christmas tree ornaments from my childhood. I have about a dozen of them, and even though a few of them have chipped paint or are worn in spots, they're still beautiful to me and represent my growing up years and the memories associated with those years. And now that my dad has passed on, those ornaments are even more precious to me.
The smells – evergreen, cinnamon, apples, pumpkin pie, sugar cookies baking.
The shining eyes of children at all the sights and sounds.
Smiling at a stranger and saying "Merry Christmas".
Christmas caroling.
Food for thought: There is nothing on earth more peaceful than sitting in the glow of the Christmas tree lights, the gifts wrapped and under the tree, with a fire going, drinking hot cocoa or good coffee, watching "A Christmas Carol" on the DVD player, while the wind howls outside and the thermometer dips into the 30's. I wouldn't trade those moments for all the money in the world, would you?
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy New Year, everyone!
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Fa la la la la.....oh whatever
A seasonal rant:
Oh yeah, it's that time of year again. And probably next week, if it hasn't started already, just as sure as the prevalence of wildly ostentatious outdoor light displays and inflatable Santas and snowmen, one will start hearing the phrase "So..."(and I know what's coming next)..."you ready for Christmas?"
WHY do we have to be subjected to this lame, bizarre, totally unnecessary and cliche phrase every year about this time? Because, instead of having a real conversation, this is all that lazy/busy/apathetic/stressed people can come up with this time of year, sort of like discussing the weather or asking someone "How are you?" when one doesn't really want to know the answer. I literally have to struggle to be polite whenever I hear that phrase for the umpteenth time in a day or week. I paste the smile on my face, will myself to not roll my eyes and usually respond "Well, whether I'm ready or not, it's coming anyway, right? Hahahahahaha!!" Sheesh.
And for God's sake people, don't be afraid to say "Merry Christmas"! Ben Stein (who I don't always agree with) spoke eloquently on this subject in one of his commentaries on CBS Sunday Morning during the holiday season in 2005. Mr. Stein, who is Jewish, was commenting on a shining example of political correctness gone mad and the resultant and equally ridiculous backlash regarding all the "Happy Holidays vs. Merry Christmas" hubbub. In essence, he said "It doesn't offend me when someone wishes me Merry Christmas even though I'm Jewish, and it doesn't offend me if someone wants to put a creche (manger scene) on their lawn." I recommend y'all read the entire commentary here: http://www.benstein.com/121805xmas.html It is excellent food for thought.
Other things about this season that seriously bring out the Scrooge in me:
Women in garish Christmas sweaters, sweatshirts and jewelry. Maybe they're trying to look like walking Christmas trees?
Wal-Mart dragging out the Christmas decorations before Halloween is even over, and hearing Christmas music over the loudspeakers before Thanksgiving. Don't misunderstand me, I love Christmas music. But I like to hear it in December, not October or November. By the time Christmas finally does roll around, one is just sick of it all and wants it over with.
All this do-gooder stuff - you know, the collecting of toys/food/clothes/money for the poor and needy. Hmm. Where are these people, and the people who give to these causes, the rest of the year? Are the poor and needy only poor and needy in December?
And finally, when did it become fashionable for people to try to light up the entire town with their lawn displays?? Simple and elegant Christmas decorations - a Christmas tree, a single wreath on the door, maybe candles in the windows - just like waiting until after Thanksgiving to begin the Christmas holiday, have fallen by the wayside in favor of 'let's see how many lights/lawn ornaments/reindeer/inflatable Santas/manger scenes we can cover every outdoor square inch with'. Going way overboard with outdoor decorating is even encouraged in the "Look At Those Lights!" contests on local television stations. And what's the reward for the "winners"? Money, of course.
Having grown up in a simpler time, I remember when Christmas decorations went up, people shopped for gifts, Christmas music was played - after Thanksgiving. All this is just a way of venting my personal disgust with what I see has happened: Christmas, and the entire holiday season, has evolved from a quietly joyous, reverent time of year for celebration, spending time with family and friends and giving from our hearts, to an orgy of gaudy consumerism and ostentatiousness lasting almost 10 weeks, and a final, mad 4-week push - a whirlwind of pageants, plays, gluttony,......... I'vegottogetthoseChristmascardsoutandtheannualnewsletter andthosegiftswrappedandthehousedecoratedandtheoffice decoratedandthereceptionatchurchorganizedandsetupand bakingtobedoneandohmyGoddon'tforgettogetstockingstuffers….
AAAAAACCCCCKKKKKKKK!!!!!
Bah humbug. Is it January 1 yet??
Oh yeah, it's that time of year again. And probably next week, if it hasn't started already, just as sure as the prevalence of wildly ostentatious outdoor light displays and inflatable Santas and snowmen, one will start hearing the phrase "So..."(and I know what's coming next)..."you ready for Christmas?"
WHY do we have to be subjected to this lame, bizarre, totally unnecessary and cliche phrase every year about this time? Because, instead of having a real conversation, this is all that lazy/busy/apathetic/stressed people can come up with this time of year, sort of like discussing the weather or asking someone "How are you?" when one doesn't really want to know the answer. I literally have to struggle to be polite whenever I hear that phrase for the umpteenth time in a day or week. I paste the smile on my face, will myself to not roll my eyes and usually respond "Well, whether I'm ready or not, it's coming anyway, right? Hahahahahaha!!" Sheesh.
And for God's sake people, don't be afraid to say "Merry Christmas"! Ben Stein (who I don't always agree with) spoke eloquently on this subject in one of his commentaries on CBS Sunday Morning during the holiday season in 2005. Mr. Stein, who is Jewish, was commenting on a shining example of political correctness gone mad and the resultant and equally ridiculous backlash regarding all the "Happy Holidays vs. Merry Christmas" hubbub. In essence, he said "It doesn't offend me when someone wishes me Merry Christmas even though I'm Jewish, and it doesn't offend me if someone wants to put a creche (manger scene) on their lawn." I recommend y'all read the entire commentary here: http://www.benstein.com/121805xmas.html It is excellent food for thought.
Other things about this season that seriously bring out the Scrooge in me:
Women in garish Christmas sweaters, sweatshirts and jewelry. Maybe they're trying to look like walking Christmas trees?
Wal-Mart dragging out the Christmas decorations before Halloween is even over, and hearing Christmas music over the loudspeakers before Thanksgiving. Don't misunderstand me, I love Christmas music. But I like to hear it in December, not October or November. By the time Christmas finally does roll around, one is just sick of it all and wants it over with.
All this do-gooder stuff - you know, the collecting of toys/food/clothes/money for the poor and needy. Hmm. Where are these people, and the people who give to these causes, the rest of the year? Are the poor and needy only poor and needy in December?
And finally, when did it become fashionable for people to try to light up the entire town with their lawn displays?? Simple and elegant Christmas decorations - a Christmas tree, a single wreath on the door, maybe candles in the windows - just like waiting until after Thanksgiving to begin the Christmas holiday, have fallen by the wayside in favor of 'let's see how many lights/lawn ornaments/reindeer/inflatable Santas/manger scenes we can cover every outdoor square inch with'. Going way overboard with outdoor decorating is even encouraged in the "Look At Those Lights!" contests on local television stations. And what's the reward for the "winners"? Money, of course.
Having grown up in a simpler time, I remember when Christmas decorations went up, people shopped for gifts, Christmas music was played - after Thanksgiving. All this is just a way of venting my personal disgust with what I see has happened: Christmas, and the entire holiday season, has evolved from a quietly joyous, reverent time of year for celebration, spending time with family and friends and giving from our hearts, to an orgy of gaudy consumerism and ostentatiousness lasting almost 10 weeks, and a final, mad 4-week push - a whirlwind of pageants, plays, gluttony,......... I'vegottogetthoseChristmascardsoutandtheannualnewsletter andthosegiftswrappedandthehousedecoratedandtheoffice decoratedandthereceptionatchurchorganizedandsetupand bakingtobedoneandohmyGoddon'tforgettogetstockingstuffers….
AAAAAACCCCCKKKKKKKK!!!!!
Bah humbug. Is it January 1 yet??
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