BingBongBoom!!!

Can't Get Enough Of...

2012-01-14T20:19:00.004-06:00

...my American Horror Story ladies.

Lets just get it out of the way: Jessica Lange is a GODDESS. If you didn't already know that, then poo on you. Ohmygosh, I love that woman. Grey Gardens...Tootsie...Cape Fear...Big Fish...I could go on and on (but I won't mention Godzilla...oops). She is just amazingly divine, and I adore her. She should win a Golden Globe for her monologue in the penultimate scene of the AHS season finale. It sent shivers down my spine.

And, I know it's my fault for missing Friday Night Lights, but I cannot get over how amazing Connie Britton is. I was watching some Spin City on DVD the other night, and not only is she comedically talented, but she's a dramatic force to be reckoned with! I cannot get over her transition from sitcom supporting star to leading woman in the freakiest, orignalist TV show in my working memory.

Oh, and did I mention that they are both super hot and gorgeous!?! To look like Lange at 63 and Britton at 45...I think I would maybe sell my soul. Well, maybe not that, but I still want tips from them. They are beautiful, talented, and they blow all other actors out of the water on AHS. Bravo to FX for giving these actresses a vehicle that supremely and superbly displays their acting prowess.

Gotta Love Them Globes

2012-01-14T20:00:00.004-06:00

What is it about the Golden Globes??? I love them so much more than the Oscars, and I'm a huge Oscars fan. Maybe it's the fact that they have the balls...or, globes I guess...to honor the people in television that should be honored. I still remember when Claire Danes took away the Best Actress in a Television Series Globe for the already cancelled My So-Called Life. She played angsty teen to perfection, and the Hollywood Foreign Press recognized that.

Or maybe it's the fact that they're not afraid to have a host that's witty, snide, and...English. Oh, Ricky Gervais, how I love you so. If you don't grill it to 'em tomorrow, I'll lose all respect I have for you. I'm thinking particularly of my good friend, Tom Cruise, whom I still adore, but I mean c'mon: He's just rife with Gervais possibilities, and with all the positive press Ghost Protocol's been getting, our dear Ricky would be remiss to let this chance of grillin' Tommy pass him by.

It could be the fact that they don't waste time with musical performances. Don't get me wrong: I love me some music, but come ON. Those add 20 minutes to an already too long Oscars telecast, and they provide too much diva drama to stand. (With the exception of the beautiful and simplistic performance from Once a few years ago. *sigh*)

What I love best, though, is celebrating the best of both television and cinema all in one night. The Emmys are low brow compared to this glitz filled night of Hollywood fun. One note to the Foreign Press, though: If my grand dame, Jessica Lange, doesn't walk out of that building with a gold statue, I'm comin' at cha...and I just might take away this ringing endorsement that so many people are bound to listen to.

Post XMAS Viewing in the UK

2011-12-27T14:22:00.003-06:00

Christmas movies after Christmas? What? That's not right!

I've been coming here for Christmas several times now, and one thing I'll never get is Christmas movies aired AFTER Christmas. Yesterday Home Alone was on. Today you could be merry with Christmas with the Kranks. I don't have all the listings, but there are definitely more Christmas movies on in the UK after the merriest day of the year. I haven't wrapped my head around it, and I never will.

Another British must for holiday viewing...List Shows. Tons of them. The 50 Best Christmas Songs EVER! (Aired after Christmas, of course.) The Top 50 Greatest Moments in Harry Potter! (The movies, of course.) The Greatest Christmas Toys! (This one actually aired before Christmas.) The list of list shows go on and on, and I find them oddly comforting. It's just not a UK Christmas without some shortbread, good homemade stuffing from my mother-in-law, and a few list shows.

But perhaps the greatest viewing pleasure around the holidays here is the extravaganza show. NEW Doctor Who special! NEW Great Expectations adaptation! (With Gillian Anderson as Miss Havisham...EXCELLENT.) The AbFab reunions! (Wish my buddy, Michael Wayne, could be here for that one.)

So there are silver linings to Christmas movies after Christmas...just don't ask me to EVER get behind that decision.

XMAS in the UK, Part III

2011-12-25T10:24:00.001-06:00

George Bailey's face says it all. What a WONDERFUL life I have...we all have.

Jesus died for us, gives us neverending grace, and all we have to do is say THANK YOU.

I have an amazing family on both sides of the Atlantic.

I wouldn't want to be anywhere else this Christmas day.

AMEN.

XMAS in the UK, Part II

2011-12-22T11:23:00.003-06:00

Sure, we get the Doctor every Saturday night on BBC America now, but there's still something uber special about watching his Christmas adventures while in Scotland for Christmas. I can hardly wait for collapsing on the couch Christmas night to watch his newest tale, The Doctor, the Widow, and the Wardrobe. I still get to see it six hours before my friends at home, which is still special!

To celebrate I've already bought a special kids magazine, Doctor Who Adventures, which came with a Doctor mask and a weeping angel for the top of the Christmas tree! I already have visions of next year's special tree at my house, full of homemade Doctor Who ornaments and that weeping angel at the top. Ah, the Doctor...the gift that just keeps on giving! Now if I could only find a real TARDIS ornament for that future tree I'd be set!

XMAS in the UK

2011-12-21T09:59:00.004-06:00

What's the first reason I love Christmas in the UK? Two words: JAMIE OLIVER.

I got to watch part II of Jamie's Christmas with Bells On last night, and let me tell you what...RECIPES GALORE! I love me some Jamie! I love being able to watch NEW Jamie here. Although I love the Cooking Channel, could they possibly get anything other than Jamie at Home to show???...POSSIBLY???

So, what will I bring home with me? Ideas for Festive Breakfast Tacos, Leftover Turkey Chowder, Bloody Mary Shrimp Cocktail, AND Brussels with Hustle (Yes, he actually made me want to jump through the screen for Brussels Sprouts. The man's genius.) Oh, the show's also given me loads of decorating with crepe paper ideas. (See picture above.)

As for now, back for watching and running after the lovely kids in this lovely Scotland. More reasons why I love XMAS in the UK later...I hope!

NKOTB vs. NSYNC

2011-11-28T16:49:00.003-06:00

Here it is. Democracy at its finest. Which of my beloved boybands has the best Christmas album??? I'm not going to list the merits of each album, which there are many. With no discussion or thoughts from me, YOU ROCK THE VOTE!

VS.

P.S. I can't believe I've never done this one before! I can't wait to see the results!

Guilty Pleasure Confessional

2011-11-27T21:50:00.002-06:00

OK. I'm done hiding the truth. I absolutely love Christmas movies on Hallmark Channel. Absolutely. Love. I used to try to hide the truth from myself, calling them cheesy, stupid, made-for-TV garbage. Oh, I was so jaded...so wrong. The truth has set me free. I feel like screaming from the rooftop: I LOVE HALLMARK ORIGINAL CHRISTMAS MOVIES!

I mean, c'mon, people: just check out the star power. Dean Cain's done at least TWO. (He's got a new one this season called The Case for Christmas. It's gonna be awesome...if you haven't already caught the first 9 times it's aired.) Elizabeth "Jessie Spano" Berkley's made the cut this year. She's hung up her g-string and signed up for G-rated with Lucky Christmas. Candace Cameron Bure, Tom Arnold, Henry Winkler, Shelley Long, Christine Taylor, and the list goes on and on!

You know who really needs to get in on this? RICKY. SCHRODER. I mean, he's made a movie for CMT. Hallmark HAS to be a step up! It's ooey gooey family Christmas fun AND values. What's not to love!?! Hallmark has to pay better than CMT, too. (I'll have to check my LA source for that info.)

After last Christmas, the first one with my son, Hallmark Christmas movie marathons take on a whole new meaning, and maybe this is why I feel so connected to them. The first few days after he was born, we were still in the hospital, and the Christmas movies were always one: keeping me calm, centered, and focused on the beautiful gift in my arms. They have a serene quality to them that makes them oh-so-enjoyable for the family centered woman I've become.

I love them. I don't mind telling you. And, I don't care if you make fun of me!

Cheated :(

2011-11-25T20:49:00.005-06:00

Dear November 2011,

I'm sorry, but I didn't mean to ignore you this year. You, my most favorite month, got the short end of the blogging stick this year. I love you so much: you're my birth month, my "twin's" birth month, and you hold the best holiday that the stores want to ignore, Thanksgiving. (Seriously, November, I love your holiday almost as much as you. I try and try to find fun decorations in which to adorn my house every year, but this year all I came up with were "Gobble Gobble...til You Hobble Hobble" napkins at Target. Just sad this is.)

Even though we haven't spoken formerly, I've had a great time with you this year. #32 was wonderful: a day in which nothing was planned, but big, great things came of it. Beautiful family and friends came over, the man I'm lucky to call husband let me sleep in until 10:30 (!), and I did something I never thought I'd be excited to do on my day of birth: I went to see an original 35 mm print of Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan. Who would've thought that I would ever want to do that for my birthday!?

Thanksgiving was simple and wonderful, too. For the first time, I was the one cooking the bird. I can't tell you what an honor this was! You probably knew, though, as you looked down upon me, the only one smiling from ear to ear at Meijer the day before Thanksgiving. I was so happy getting the last minute bits and bobs for the bird, and I was so blessed to be able to share it with my family.

So. What do you have left for me, oh wonderful month? Oh, just a small thing called an ANNIVERSARY. #9 to be exact! How the time flies. And, how time has flown this month. I'll try to make up for it the next few days by blogging as much as I can. I love you, you final autumnal month of the year, and I will respect you by not putting up Christmas until after Halloween, and by keeping the traffic and ire a little less by not shopping on Black Friday.

All my best,

Your daughter, Amanda

How to Make the Definitive Leftover Turkey San'wich

2011-11-25T20:19:00.004-06:00

Here it is: the only san'wich "recipe" you'll ever need for leftover turkey. Follow the directions closely, and don't skimp on the ingredients, either.

1. Take two pieces of white bread. Yes, WHITE bread. I suggest trying the Arnold's brand, with no high fructose corn syrup, so you can kid yourself that this bread isn't as bad as Sunbeam and almost as good as some hoity-toity whole grain stuff you tell yourself you should eat even though you don't want to.

2. Slather each piece of white bread with the mayo made with extra virgin olive oil. Why the kind with EVOO? See the reason I stated above for using white bread but substitute Hellman's for Sunbeam.

3. Have some nice, fresh tomatoes sliced and place them on one piece of the bread. DO NOT FORGET to season these with salt and pepper. It totally does boost the taste.

4. Get a few slices of clean, crisp romaine on the other slice of white bread. There's nothing better than biting into that romaine and having that fresh *CRUNCH* pop in your mouth!

5. Place the leftover turkey on the side with the tomatoes, so the bird meat can get some of that S&P on it, and the toms are more stable than the wavy lettuce.

6. Cut in half, get some Lay's on the side, and ENJOY! Eating a sammie at 9:30 p.m., six hours after stuffing yourself silly, never tasted so good. And the best part might be using your tongue to scrape that smooshed white bread off the top of your mouth.

Oh, the Horror...THE HORROR!

2011-10-30T15:34:00.002-05:00

I knew I'd watch it...eventually. I had a feeling it would totally freak me out...and it did. As I was watching the pilot episode last night (on demand), I knew as repulsed/freaked/weirded out as I was, I'd end up watching the rest of them.

American Horror Story is Amityville Horror times a million. Why times a million?

1. It's on EVERY week. You don't get a breather. You think it's over, but you know it'll be back next week, and you know you'll end up watching, even if you don't want to. (I will at least. My good friend, Coco? Definitely not. I hope she forgives me for making her watch last night.)
2. Jessica Lange is the creepiest old snooping neighbor EVER. She was the only good part of that 1998 Johnathon Schaech movie, Hush, and her character is reminiscent of Schaech's overly protective icky mom. If she doesn't get a Golden Globe or Emmy for this, I'm striking.
3. Two words: GINGER TWINS. This would be enough to make my brother watch.
4. There are weird, kinky sex things that just aren't right. Um, leather man drilling Connie Britton? Enough said. (And, so sorry to leave that visual in your head.)
5. The opening titles and flashes throughout the show are very Seven-Fincheresque. I'm repulsed and intrigued at the same time. These montages also fuh-reak me out and make me want to watch more. 6. WHAT'S IN THE BASEMENT!?!? It's always a basement. It better not be a scary white guy who killed Native Americans, cause then I'll call shenanigans. If I'm investing my time and sanity in this, there better not be an Amityville copout.

As icky and creepy as this FX original show is, I give the network, actors, and all those involved mad props for trying something so out of the box for TV. My husband loves Walking Dead, but it's too real for me to ever watch and enjoy. (I can imagine my children becoming zombies, us having to abandon them, and then I get depressed and cry.) American Horror Story is just far enough out there for me to believe it could never happen. I can still get spooked and be okay afterwards...I think. We'll have to see how episode two leaves me.

crickets

2011-10-28T20:56:00.003-05:00

An evening with Michael J. Fox is over.

PJ20 has been dissected.

I've rewatched every season of Smallville I own.

I could care less about Breaking Dawn.

There are no new Robbie Williams or Take That albums this birthday/holiday season.

What do I blog about now? Oh, yeah...

I'm totally gonna see it.

MJF Pick of the Day: IN PERSON

2011-10-27T18:25:00.008-05:00

Well, folks, it didn't happen. I didn't get to meet my hero in person. And guess what I had the gall, the unbelivable gall, to do? Throw myself a pity party! You know who snapped me out of it? The Brothers Gallagher of all people...Yes, THAT Brothers Gallagher. The boys from Oasis popped up on the iPod shuffle on my way home today, when I was lamenting the fact that I didn't get to meet this pop culture luminary, who helped shaped my youth, in person. They told me not to look back in anger. I ruminated on their words, and this is what I came to realize:

1. I'm a douche for thinking myself unlucky cause I didn't get to meet the Fox. That goes against everything he preaches, and it also goes against my belief in a holy God that made the fact that I was simply in his presence possible.
2. No, I didn't get to shake his hand, because he was dealing with his own shaky problems. HEY, HE MAKES FUN OF HIMSELF, TOO, OKAY??? Mr. Fox talks about his son calling him shaky dad and is completely open and aware of his tremors. His tremors had gotten so visibly bad by the end of the Q&A session, that I didn't want to be that person to hunt him down for a photograph.
3. Um...who is one of five people whose questions were asked to Mr. Fox? THIS GUY!
Q: What is the greatest gift you've ever GIVEN?A: Oh, I don't know! You'd probably have to ask the receivers. The greatest gift I've every received is my family, though.
My cousin said he couldn't answer that question, because he's too humble. Right she is, but it was just interesting enough to be asked! HUZZAH!
4. How can I be angry when he's still so stinkin' cute? He's the cutest 50-year-old I've ever seen. I already look older than him. I hate men, but that' a whole other story.
5. I learned what a caregiver should be. His wife, Tracy Pollan, is an amazingly strong and supportive person, wife, and friend to him. I hope if I'm ever in the caregiver role in my life that I could be as strong.

So, why was I such a douche? Cause I didn't get a picture? Cause I didn't get to meet him? What STUPID reasons for throwing myself a pity party! This night was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see a man I've admired for many years speak about his life and the lessons he's learned AFTER being afflicted with Parkinson's Disease. How dare I even think of looking back in anger. I'm not anymore. Thanks, Oasis. You really have done something good in your careers post 1995!

MJF Pick of the Day: Save the Best for Last

2011-10-25T21:54:00.005-05:00

Did you really think I forgot? REALLY? And, do I really need to go on and on about this one? Well, you probably don't want me to, but I'm gonna.

It takes me back in time. (Oh, pun intended...definitely intended.) Laying on the floor of my living room, uncomfortable from laying on the hard wood for so long, but I'm the oldest and in charge of holding down the rewind button. My brother is behind me on the couch, reclining for a moment until the song begins again. We're in footie pajamas. We watch Marty McFly sing Johnny B. Goode over and over and over again. We can't get enough of it! Little did I know, at the tender age of eight, how much this film would mean to me in later life.

It comforts me. When I'm feeling sad or stressed, I can put this in and feel the bad feelings seep out of me, cause I have to make room for the warm, toasty, happy feelings of goodness I get everytime I see Marty bring his parents back together.

It centers me. This was the first film I put in my hospital bag when I packed for the birth of my first babe. I knew there were DVD players in the room, and I knew that my husband and this MJF trilogy would get me through the unfortunately painful miracle of birth.

It reminds me that we can accomplish anything if we put our minds to it. I might not write a novel, but I have glorious aspirations to be an amazing wife, mother, daughter, friend, and teacher, and with a little help from the Doc, Marty, and Huey Lewis' stellar 80s hits, I can do this, even when I feel like a waste of God-created space.

One final thought: the remake. It will never be replaced or replicated, or if some Hollywood bigwigs thinks it would be a good idea, they'd have me to deal with. But, actually...Michael J. Fox said in last year's Entertainment Weekly Reunion Special that he'd be all for it. He just wouldn't want to be in it. I guess if Marty says it's okay, then it's okay? But for those of us who want this time travel classic to stand alone in history, prestine and perfect in its original incarnation, just click HERE.

MJF Pick of the Day: Back to the Small Screen

2011-10-25T21:23:00.003-05:00

No, we are not talking Chuck Sheen. We are talking about Michael J. Fox's triumphant return to the small screen. Oh, Spin City: Alex P. Keaton grown up, sexed up, and lovin' every minute in the Big Apple. So. Much. TO LOVE!!!

The supporting cast was one of THE best ever assembled EVER. Richard Kind, Big Bear Bostwick (at least that's what I call him...what do YOU call him, anyway?), Connie Britton (pre-uber-Am.HorrorStory-hotness), Michael Boatman, Alexander Chapman, and of course Alan Ruck, who played one of the most amazing misogynistic male archetypes in the history of TV.

The writing was top notch, clever, witty: ie, perfect for the Family Ties fan that had grown up and matured and still wanted to see MJF every week.

Barry Bostwick and Richard Kind were the unsung heroes of the show. MJF set them up perfectly, as his castmates had set him up in Family Ties. He gave back to these two men (and the others, as well) the gifts Meredith Baxter and Michael Gross had presented to him a decade earlier.

It was obvious MJF loved working with the cast and the scripts. He was in tip-top comedic form. He even took home one Emmy and three CONSECUTIVE Golden Globes for his work on this mid-90s sitcom gem.

If you ignored Spin City the first time around, because you were too busy watching stupid stuff like Home Improvement, Drew Carey, or Veronica's Closet, then take the time to check it out now. In my opinion, it often gets lost in the MJF shuffle, or it's just remembered as the show during which MJF announced he had Parkinson's. Spin City is more than that, and it's definitely worthy of a resurgence.

MJF Pick(s) of the Day: We're All Ears!

2011-10-25T21:04:00.003-05:00

Monday kinda got away from me, y'all, so here are your MJF Picks of the Day...on Tuesday!

Our intrepid Canadian hero has done some amazing voice over work in his career. My personal favorites? Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey and Stuart Little. Oh, Homeward Bound...how I still cry at the end when Shadow comes over the ridge. The three pets, Chance, Sassy, and Shadow were brought to life by the actors who voiced them (MJF, Sally Field, and Daon Ameche, respectively), and the 1993 family film has not received enough cred as a family film classic. I remember being dragged to the film, by my Aunt Barb and two lil cousins, but how I still thank her for it now. I love that film.

Stuart Little also has a special place in my heart, for it was one of the first DVD's my husband bought me after we were married. He knew how much I loved the MJF, and he also knew I loved family friendly fare. And, I ended up enjoying this one immensely. Never liked the children's book much, but I love hearing Mr. Fox's calm, soothing voice that makes even a white rodent cute. Oh, yeah, and the Hugh Laurie doesn't hurt the film much, either.

I can't wait to share both of these films with my children one day. They might very well be the kids' first introduction to this fine Canadian actor.

MJF Pick of the Day: A Howlin' Good Time

2011-10-23T11:51:00.004-05:00

Do I really have to explain this one? Really? No, I didn't think so. How about just a couple of choice memories from my youth:

"Give me a keg of beer." I learned what a keg was from this 1985 classic.

Car surfing to the Beach Boys! My brother and I would mimic Scott's signature moves along with him.

Oh, Boof. Really? Your name is Boof, and you wonder why you can't get a date with the coolest werewoof in school?

The same house George McFly peeps in is also present in this film. Nice site scouting, Hollywood guys. (Well, this is how MJF got the job as Marty McFly, so I guess the scouting snafu worked out.)

I still love Styles. I wish he would pop up more.

Speaking of Styles...who else wanted a Wolfmobile? Anyone, anyone?

I had this recorded on the same VHS as Pee-Wee's Big Adventure, so the tape became known as the Chubby/Frances Double Feature. (OK, the actor's name is Mark Holton, but which one of my readers would've known that?)

Do you remember Doug Savant? DO YOU??? Classic pre-Melrose.

Just don't ever...EVER...watch Teen Wolf, Too, no matter how much you love the original or Jason Bateman.

MJF Pick(s) of the Day: D.E.A.R.!

2011-10-22T15:34:00.002-05:00

Drop Everything and Read...an MJF autobiography! These picks are great for a chilly fall afternoon, when all you want to do is snuggle up under a blanket, with a hot chocolate, and read the hours away.

Michael J. Fox is not at a loss with a pen in his hand (or a keyboard in front of him). His prose is quick witted and honest. He has now written two autobiographies, Lucky Man and Always Looking Up. In the first, he's honest about well, what a douche he had become before Parkinson's, and how the disease has been a huge blessing in helping him to prioritize his life. The second is more of a guide for being an optimist in this pessimistic world, but he still draws on his own life experiences throughout the book.

If you've kept in touch over the years, you know I've read both, but this MJF Week they definitely deserve another plug, especially Always Looking Up. He won the Spoken Word Grammy for the tome, and I'd love to give it a listen, to hear him put his own personal emphasis on his words and stories. When I start to get overly pessimistic with the bosses at work or this world in general, I take a look at this book, and this man, and realize there is nothing to be pessimistic about! I live a wonderful life, full of wonderful family and friends, memories of simple, breathtaking adventures (like having TWO amazing children), and I get to spend my days teaching kids. This book is just another way Michael J. Fox continues to help me be a better person.

A Break from One Great for Another

2011-10-21T22:43:00.002-05:00

A transcript from tonight's notes upon the viewing of Cameron Crowe's Pearl Jam 20 is below. I'm a writer. Allow me if you will...

How I love to be in a Pearl Jam choir--an honor, a privilege, a pure delight--and that's why the "old ones" never get old.

Singing in pure melody with the stranger next to you, brought together by five men you'll never know but always have. Give me Better Man, give me Daughter, give me Elderly Woman and Alive...any and all to be one again with history, because that's what Pearl Jam is: living, breathing, pulsating musical history.

I've gathered in this choir 11 times, not enough in my opinion. I long to enlist several more times before my time here is done, and I'm eager for the day I can bring my children to the live rehearsal. To share with them the music and history that has already shaped and molded 20 years of their mummy's life would be a dream come true. To hear them singing next to me, adding their voice to the Pearl Jam choir, would be a gift beyond monetary measure.

MJF Pick of the Day: Frighten Yourself

2011-10-21T12:51:00.003-05:00

In my opinion, The Frighteners (1996), is an extremely underrated movie. I've picked it for MJF Week to try to encourage more people to go out and rent it...oh, I mean NETFLIX it. (Or stream or borrow or whatever it is that you do.)

The Frighteners is perfectly eerie, spooky, and gets down right...um, well...FRIGHTENING. After losing his wife, MJF is able to see ghosts, befriends them, and then gets them to haunt unassuming people, so he can make money "ghost busting" their homes. Seems stupid, right? Well, then it gets downright creepy and gruesome, when the ghost of a mass murderer comes back to continue his work. The flashbacks are rather terrifying, too. It's MJF at his unassuming best: Who would ever guess that Alex P. Keaton would play a con-man who sees ghosts and has to return an unleashed serial killer to hell?

The movie also boasts a stellar cast. In addition to MJF, you'll also find:

flipping scary Jake Busey (seriously, he shouldn't be allowed on screen with his freaky visage)

E.T.'s Mom (as she's described in another Halloween staple, Scream), Dee Wallace

John Astin, the father of another 80s idol I may have met

Oh, and it's directed by Peter Jackson...yes, THAT Peter Jackson.

Please, check this one out if you're an MJF fan and love a good ghost story, like I do.

MJF Pick of the Day: Part II

2011-10-19T22:00:00.000-05:00

MJF Pick of the Day: A VERY Special Episode

2011-10-19T21:27:00.004-05:00

If you grew up in the 80s, like I did, you were always stoked when a "very special episode" was going to be aired. The previews leading up to the show would build the anticipation up to a mind-numbing hilt. I would talk up the "very special episode" at dinner throughout the week. I would make sure everyone in my family knew that I had dibs on the TV during the "very special episode." I would hype up the event at school, too, asking my friends if they were going to tune in. A lot of people make fun of the "very special episodes" today. (And, YES, I will continue to use quotes.) In fact, I've read one particularly nasty review of the special Keaton episode I'm about to discuss. However jilted, disillusioned, and pessimistic TV viewers have become in the 21st century, it's nice to look back and relish the times when the passing of a best friend, and the process of coming to grips with said loss, was a monumental bit of television that was hyped up the week preceding it's airdate.

" 'A' My Name is Alex" is one of my favorite two-part episodes of Family Ties, and many critics think it was this two-parter that snagged Michael J. Fox his THIRD CONSECUTIVE Emmy for the 1986-1987 season of Family Ties. The first part opens on a sullen Keaton crowd conjugating around the kitchen island, trying to decide how to comfort Alex over the loss of a dear friend. (No, not Skippy! One we never met before, which remains odd to me...but anyway...) Alex bounds through the door, a wide grin on his face, hands outstretched, "Was that a funeral or what!?" Classic Alex: hiding his true feelings and emotions, trying to have a stiff upper lip for the family. What shortly follows is a meltdown of epic 80s proportions: Alex crumbling on the kitchen floor, shouting it should've been him, Elyse embracing her oldest son, etc. Alex then finds himself in counseling, breaking the fourth wall, confiding in a psychiatrist, and divulging his deepest emotions...a very un-APK thing to do.

I love the episode(s). It's the one episode of Family Ties I kept recorded on VHS for years. I still think it holds up. I don't care what all the despondent, cynical viewers who loved the show growing up and now only want to watch meth dealers, misogynistic ad men, and sexed up vampires say: " 'A' My Name is Alex" is required MJF viewing, and I'll do my best to relive this "very special episode" before 10/26/11.

One Month...

2011-09-26T20:38:00.002-05:00

I get to see Michael J. Fox in one month. I know you might've tuned into this blog before, so you might know that has some significance. But, I don't think you can TRULY KNOW what that means for me unless you're my husband or the wonderful lass who procured me my tickets.

I try not to idolize people, for it goes against everything I believe in, but if there was one person who got dangerously close to being put upon a pedestal in my life, it would be Michael J. Fox. His roles in Family Ties and Back to the Future were cornerstones in my entertainment youth. But the thing is, the work in those seminal 80s productions STILL hold up today. His turn in Spin City in the mid/late 90s solidified him as an adult sitcom powerhouse, and his battle with Parkinson's is less of a daily battle but more of a daily reminder to everyone else that even when life throws you curve balls, you need to LIVE it. His autobiography is also a satisfying read: he takes a stern look at the way he's lived his life, admits mistakes, and commits to moving ever onward and upward, striving to inspire those who feel pity for themselves.

At the beginning of the school year I had my students write a poem called "What If..." Each student added a line, including myself, and it hangs outside my classroom door. My line? "What if I get to meet and mingle with Michael J. Fox..." Now, I could dream to be that lucky, but I still get to be in the same room as him, listening to his words, and hoping some of his wisdom and optimism rubs off on me. I'll try not to be an eager beaver goon in the front, weeping through his presentation...but I can't make any promises. I do know I'll be one Lucky Me to be able to say I saw my hero in person. I know he'll never see this, or know how much I'm looking forward to this evening that's a month away, but I can hope he feels my good vibes coming at him from the audience.

PJ 20

2011-09-19T21:13:00.003-05:00

The much-anticipated Cameron Crowe feature-length documentary, PJ 20, is being screened worldwide tomorrow. I feel it is high time to try to vocalize, or writalize, some Pearl Jam sentiments...though I know they'll just come out sounding unworthy of this band that I have followed for the past 20 years.

Writing that last sentence makes me feel old, yet proud. I am so proud to have been able to say I've followed Pearl Jam since their inception. (And, there's another small word: "followed." So many of the words I will put down will be small, inconsequential, and seemingly daft when talking about such a monumental group of musicians.) While so many of those around me were putting stock in that other "grunge" group, Nirvana, I stood behind the ones that always came second on the list of "exciting new alternative acts." Eddie Vedder's compositions and raw, unchained voice--wavering between low whispers, confident proclamations, and guttural growls--found a space in my head and heart, which were usually reserved for shiny, happy pop . Pearl Jam tapped into something I had never explored before: music with a purpose.

It has been an absolute honor and privilege to be able to say I've set the last 20 years of my life to a soundtrack by Pearl Jam. Sure, others have helped along the way--Robbie Williams, White Stripes, Avett Brothers, the Shins, Justin Timberlake, Amy Winehouse--but Pearl Jam never goes away. Just like the Beatles and Elvis have been constants in my life, so shall Pearl Jam be. There has been so many PJ 20 things going on: a three-day Labor Day weekend celebration, the screening of the documentary tomorrow, the constant influx of too much swag to wag a finger at (let alone buy). I don't feel like I need those things, though. I need my headphones and my iPod, Vedder singing in my ears, with McCready's guitar behind him, Cameron's drums bringing him up, Ament's bass holding the line, and Gossard doing, uh, whatever it is he feels like doing during that line. And, if I really feel like sharing the love that I feel, I need my windows wide open, Pearl Jam pulsating out of them into the cooling autumn air, and my breath bonded and intertwined with EdVed's, both of them being released into space. And, for a moment driving around the streets of my town, where I first opened up Ten on cassette 20 years ago, for one moment, I'll be a part of this band that has shaped my life.

Remember When...

2011-09-16T15:34:00.005-05:00

I was excited for the Twilight movies?

I was super-stoked to see the films?
I spent multiple entries lauding the greatness that was about to be committed to celluloid?

Then Kristen Stewart showed up and crushed every bit of excitement I had for the Twiligh film franchise with her acting skills.
Then Taylor Lautner showed up with his abs, made my middle school girls crazy, and all I heard was TeamJacobTeamJacobTeamJacob!!!

There can be too much of a good thing. I miss enjoying the books: I once enjoyed them so much. Here's the thing, though: the trailer kiiiinda got me excited to see the first installment of the fourth book. (Maybe cause R.Patz is still kiiiinda hot.) I don't know. It comes out the day before my birthday. I'll probably still go, even though I FELL ASLEEP during Eclipse and can't remember anything from my one and only cinema viewing. If the series continues to suck (no pun intended) via film, I still have the very faithful Harry Potter films.

P.S. The movie poster is lame. I'm too tired to go searching for better images, though.

Who Says That Smallville is Dead?

2011-09-12T09:32:00.003-05:00

I know I've only watched the last three seasons of Smallville "live," but I still feel an emptiness in my fall TV line-up. Sure the way CW spaced out the episodes was inexcusable, sure it ran too long, but I can already feel a super-sized hole in my entertainment heart during this week of brand spankin' new programming.

So, faithful reader, you may be wondering what steps I've taken to feed my need for Supers. I love how curious you are, so let me entertain you with what I've been up to:

1. It's a challenging job, but I've been re-watching every season of Smallville. I tell you what, once I saw that shadow of a cape flutter in the series finale of television's greatest incarnation of the Man of Steel, I felt an instant loss. It's actually been quite amazing re-watching every episode. I'm finding gems hidden in seasons I remembering having sucked. Season five was an absolute delight! I remember complaining non-stop, but it was quite enjoyable the second time around. I found the season-long arcs refreshing after the constant "freak of the week" episodes. True, nothing holds a candle to season 2, but I feel guilty and jaded for having complained so much. Currently I'm on season 7, the last one I own. I am still actively thinking about buying the entire series on DVD come November.

2. It's the little things that count...or the little books. Gotta love that Target Dollar Bin, especially when it makes available to me a Superman coloring and activity book. Staff meetings have never been so much fun!

3. Who hasn't heard of the New 52!?! And if you haven't, then you're not geek enough for me. Husband and Daughter came home last week with a nifty surprise: the new Action Comics #1. It's splendid! I feel a leak in my bank account about to start. I'll never keep up with all of them, but to know there's new Supes out there is reassuring and exciting!

So, that's it, folks: how this lil Super Fan is filling the Smallville void. I'll always have DVD, and now if I could just find the perfect poster to put up in my classroom...

9/11/01

2011-09-11T16:38:00.003-05:00

A beautiful day...a GORGEOUS day. Blue skies. White, fluffy clouds dotting the endless sky. Wet hair, robe wrapped around my still-damp body. Remote in hand, CBS on, planes crashing through towers??? Real time? It can't be. A new movie? Probably. The LIVE in the upper right hand corner tells me the probabilty is false, and a new reality sets in.

Tears streaming down confused, forlorn faces meet me everywhere I go. The Quad never seemed such a long walk before. A professor tells us to plod along, get on with "it," and tuck our emotions away. As future teachers, that's what we'll have to do someday soon anyway. A startled T.A. doesn't want to get on with "it," and smuggles a small TV into our discussion. She doesn't want us to push away our raw feelings but encourages us to share our grief.

Poor brother. Dad leaves the house on fix-it duty, while broham has to stay with his overemotional mother and sister, who can't stop the torrent of tears from sliding down their faces. This trait passed on to me by my mother is a quality I don't want to hide, but for brother's sake, I try that night.

10 years later the feelings are still raw. My heart still aches, my head still swells, I still can't take the site of the plane crashing-taking-changing lives. I don't want to see the smoke billowing up, the running people covered in ash, or remember my brother's somber face as he tried to get through that first night with us beside ourselves.

I told Alba a story today about some men who wanted to change the world by trying to hurt others. I also told her, through a spoken-aloud prayer, that I want to see these men one day, someday, when I get to go "home." I want to tell them, without one hint of irony but with boundless warmth and truth emanating from my heart, "I'M SO HAPPY TO SEE YOU!!! And, I'm so glad you're home with us to revel in goodness and light." That's the happy ending I want...

Who's Your Daddy.

2011-08-24T22:31:00.003-05:00

That's a statement. A declarative sentence. Get into it: He is.

Coming back for more adventures this Saturday, August 27. And, yes, BBCAmerica HD finally came to my house. Oh, I'm giddy.

My Name is Inigo Montoya...

2011-08-20T20:37:00.003-05:00

...you love my music. Prepare for a great night!

My husband is awesome. He saw Patti LuPone with me on Broadway. He saw my pain when I couldn't see said diva with her greatest male counterpart, Mandy Patinkin, in Chicago. So, he thought: I must fix this. And, fix it he did.

On March 31, 2012, I get to see Mandy Patinkin live in concert in my very own city. I don't have to drive to St. Louis or Chicago or make the trip to the Great White Way (although that would be fabulous). I have to get in the car and drive seven minutes east. Maybe ten minutes if the traffic is heavy.

I am SO EXCITED.

I love Mandy Patinkin! You may only know him as Inigo Montoya, but he is also one of the greatest singers of these times. He originated the character of Che in Andrew Lloyd Weber and Tim Rice's Evita, and he sings a helluva Sondheim. Check out some of the CD's I've linked below, and think of me grinning from ear to ear as I enjoy Mr. Patinkin in the balcony seven months from now...he better not cancel.

Dress Casual
Oscar & Steve
Evita
Grandma Doralee Patinkin's Holiday Cookbook--YES! He can cook, too! (Or at least sponsor an amalgamation of his grandmother's recipes, so they can get published.)

I'm About to Watch...WHAT???

2011-08-16T21:55:00.004-05:00

To the Mat. It's about wrestling. It has a cheesy love triangle. It's an original made for TV movie...on CMT. Yet, I'll still record and watch, cause THIS GUY is in it:

Oh, Ricky Schroder. How BBB!'s sister franchise, the 80's Preservation Society, misses thee. Your 30 second cameo in Get Him to the Greek was the best surprise in recent movie memory. Now if we could only get you on the small screen more often. This CMT telefilm just won't cut it. Why don't others realize the talent you possess in your furrowed brow and clear blue eyes? Your 80s teen sensation heyday may be long gone, but your turn in NYPD Blue over a decade ago showed you still had grit. Your guest appearances on Scrubs as a male nurse were priceless, and the only ones we re-watch (well...besides the MJF ones, of course). "It"'s still there! Don't let this cheesy CMT schmaltz fool you, Hollywood. Rick(y) still has a wealth of talent that needs to be tapped. Now if I could just get him to hire me as his publicist.

Do It To Me One More Time

2011-08-14T15:52:00.003-05:00

As soon as Smallville wrapped up its series run in late May, I started re-watching the show on DVD. As most of you may know, I've had a love-hate relationship with the show the last few years. I was so hyped to get caught up on DVD then watch the show live. However, when I got to watching the super series "live," it took on a whole new excruating spot on my weekly TV line-up. The CW did the show an inustice by putting weeks, sometimes months, between new episodes. I would lose track of major plot lines, but even more devasting was the face that I lost interest. Re-watching the show I'm enjoying it even more than I remembered. I'm on season 6 (pretty good for starting the last week of May)--the writer's strike season--and I don't remember enjoying seasons 4 and 5 the first time around as much as I did this second time. I think when I get to re-watch seasons 7-10, I'll appreciate them even more, too. And, thus leads us to today's quandary...

Do I buy the complete Smallville series when it comes out on November 29 (hmmm...someone's 9th wedding anniversary...)?

PROS:

I'll have a stunning complete boxed set, but akin to my stunning complete boxed set of Gibson-Gibley Girls.

The extras in the set are soooo pretty.

I don't have seasons 8-10 on DVD.

I could sell season 1-7 used to try to make a little coin to go toward the new shiny set.

There's an awesome 90 minute featurette spanning the entire series with cast interviews.

CONS:

IT'S NOT AVAILABLE ON BLU-RAY.

I already have seasons 1-7.

The cover art for season 10 is hella better than the complete series art.

Flux Copasitor Fluxing to 1990

2011-08-13T21:29:00.004-05:00

Remember Tommy Page? Anyone...anyone? Well, guess what? I DO! (Of course I do. If you thought I wouldn't then SHAME on you.) Do you still own Tommy Page's hit album, Paintings in My Mind (co-produced by New Kid on the Block Donnie Walhberg, and with Jordan Knight on backing vocals) on CASSETTE? I DO! Did you make your two-year-old daughter listen to Tommy Page today after her nap and sing along with the tracks to serenade her? I DID! (And, let me tell you how oddly fascinated I was to find out I still remembered over 90% of the lyrics. How does my brain store those away yet cannot remember the names of students I had just 10 weeks ago???)

Yes, folks, Tommy Page is alive and well at BBB!!! I've put an old stereo/record/cassette set in my daughter's room (vintage, y'know, with teal & pink tones), and I kinda love that I still own the Tommy Page cassette. (I also own THREE cassettes by MMC favorites, The Party. They were the hip MMCers before that Justin and J.C. took over.) One of my absolute favorite episodes of Full House is when Mr. Page shows up and sings to D.J. for her birthday. Cause who couldn't that happen to? I mean, he was no Jordan or Joe, but they were way too busy to show up to birthdays, so Tommy was happy to step in. Heck, I would've taken him at my 12th birfday.

Tommy Page DOES have an official website, and I highly encourage you check it out. I'm also seriously considering upgrading my cassette to CD...or maybe I'll just download from iTunes. When I told my cousin I had been serenading the bigger bairn with Tommy Page, she replied that she had forgotten he existed. Shame. Get into some sweet, chaste early 90s pop via Tommy. You won't be sorry. ;)

#10

2011-08-11T07:32:00.004-05:00

In my opinion, he's the biggest Cubs fan that ever lived. Sure I grew up watching Harry Carey on WGN, but I became a true Cubs fan listening to Ron Santo on WGN Radio. He lived and died with the Cubs. He was unabashed and unashamed of his die-hard, unwavering love for this Chicago team. He made me a better Cubs fan, too: if Ron can get through years of ups and downs as a Cubs fan, then so could I. And when we won? Oh my gosh, such joy you never heard come through the airwaves. It wouldn't matter if we were in the middle of a 10 game winning streak, either: his joy would still be just as pure as picking up a win after a wicked losing stretch.

Yesterday, a statue was unveiled outside of Wrigley for this awesome Cubs player, fan, and announcer. It's still bittersweet that our Ron isn't in the Baseball Hall of Fame, but deep down he probably wasn't too fussed about it. He just wanted to watch Cubs ball and help other children and adults with diabetes, the disease he was afflicted with that took both of his limbs. Even through his struggles with diabetes, he seemed like and upbeat, always look-on-the-bright-side-of-life kinda guy. He was a true original.

Our wonderful son was born on December 2, 2010, just hours before Ron left this plane for a far better one on December 3. Do I have high and mighty dreams that one day our lil man will take up Ron's missing space at 3rd base? Sure I do. But what would be even cooler is if our son could share the same unbridled enthusiasm for Cubs baseball that Ronny did. Hey, maybe we could even get to hear our kid announce a game from Ron's old booth seat. Now THAT might be even better.

FIVE!!!

2011-08-06T16:02:00.003-05:00

BingBongBoom!!! is FIVE! We missed our anniversary date by a few days, but that's what happens when you're still in a post-Sir Paul glow, driving to Missouri, and wrangling two beautiful children.

A lot has happened in FIVE years. FIVE years ago...

I'd never seen an episode of Smallville or Gibley Gibson Girls.

I hadn't seen Patti LuPone on Broadway.

Was over 60 books ago. I've done some good readin', for a teacher and mum of two! :)

I still watched Food Network everyday, but now I've cashed in my FN stock to Cooking Channel stock, cause it's so much more cutting edge (and still shows Julia Child).

I was committed to blogging daily, but now I'm happy with once every couple of weeks. (Hey, it's the QUALITY, not the QUANTITY.)

Doctor Who was a minor blip on my radar, but within the last few years it has become a MAJOR storm, constantly churning and making new waves in my entertainment-driven banter.

I had never read a graphic novel. (Red Son was my first...of course it had to be Superman.)

It was merely a dream to see Paul McCartney live in concert. (Yes, I'm still on about that.)

I thought maybe kids might be in my future, but I had no idea I'd get two completely wonderful, awesome, fun children...within 18 months of each other.

There's been so much more, but there are too many fabulous things to list. One thing is for sure: I love writing this blog. There might be two or three people who actually read this, but I love keeping track of the little things that strike me as funny, important, pivotal, and what-have-you. So, as long as there's just one person out there still reading, I'm still writing. :)

You'd Think That People Would've Had Enough of PAUL McCARTNEY

2011-08-01T21:12:00.003-05:00

But last night I looked around me and saw it wasn't so.

Last night. LAST. NIGHT. I had the privilege of seeing Paul McCartney live in concert at Wrigley Field. My companion? My amazing husband. It was a night I'll never forget.

You hear the name Paul McCartney, and sometimes it's hard to grasp all that it encompasses. It was too much for my mind to realize that I was going to actually SEE and HEAR Paul McCartney. Even as we sat in our (awesome) seats waiting for the show to begin, it still didn't quite seem real. I was going to see a Beatle, a living legend. I was going to see one of the four men who single-handedly changed the scope of pop music for ALL time. I was going to see the man that my Aunt Carla swooned over in her youth, the man my former manager and friend, Bill, ran to the record store for whenever a new Beatles single came out, the man whose group and personal song catalogs my awesome father-in-law has carefully collected and memorized over the last five decades. This is one of the few people alive who isn't a meer musician but a musical genius.

I wasn't prepared for my reaction when he and his band struck the opening chord to the Beatles classic All My Lovin'. My breath was stolen from my lungs, I slumped back in my seat, and tears started streaming down my face. Because I was sad? Maybe a little (because I couldn't see John, Paul, George, & Ringo perform this themselves). But because I was so overwhelmed at this music coming alive before me. Paul's band is, in my opinion, the top backing band in the music business. I've seen them on TV before and could tell they were good, but I had no idea HOW good. So good, in fact, that good is a dirty, low word to describe them. Lets try mind-numblingly awesome to describe them instead. The music scourged through me, went through every fiber of my being, adding extra minutes of joy to my life. And, THAT'S why tears began coursing down my chubby cheeks.

I screamed, stomped, and clapped like nobody's business through Band on the Run and Live & Let Die. I supplied horrible harmony to I Will, and when Blackbird quickly, yet quietly, followed the tears came again. Two of my all-time favorites back-to-back was too much to keep my already heady emotions in check. (Click HERE for the full setlist. You'll be jealous.) His anecdotes were sweetly told, name-dropping tales of yesterday (no pun intended): about that time watching Hendrix live with Clapton or those times plucking Bach out lightly on guitars with his friend, George. Old songs became new again: it was as if I was hearing Something for the first time. After starting out with just Paul on a ukelele and swelling into a full-on magnificent masterpiece with that amazing band breathing new life into it, Something became new and even more beautiful that maybe even Harrison could've imagined. Or Helter Skelter, which I thought I didn't care that much for, until it was played in all its phrenetic, trippy glory under the Chicago sky VERY loudly.

I hope I never forget this night. I hope I tell my grandchildren about, and they get so sick of the story they roll their eyes and say, "Not again!!!" I already practiced the story today with my daughter. When I woke her up, sleep still caking her eyes, I said, "Mummy and Daddy saw a man named Paul last night. He sang to us, and it was wonderful."

She said, "Paul?"

"Yes," I said. "Paul.

Thank You

2011-07-14T21:16:00.002-05:00

I've been ignoring this post for a very long time...too long in fact. I decided it's finally time I muster the courage and try to put into words the feelings I have for a certain boy and his faithful friends, who become his family.

I haven't read a biography on J.K. Rowling, so I still don't know for sure what she set out to do over a decade ago when she penned the first Harry Potter novel. I think she might have needed a little money, but I also think she wanted an escape. She wanted a world she could retreat into in which anything was possible. We are so lucky she decided to share this world with us. What started out as a story about a boy who became a wizard has become so much more than that. His story is one of perseverance, hope, trust, faithfulness, and love...so much about love.

A story in which the love you have for your friends goes beyond friendship and develops into familial bonds.

A story in which love protects you when nothing else can.

A story that understands love is an emotion not only held for people but for places, which become so intrinsic to your being that they also become part of your soul.

A story that creates and celebrates the love for fictional characters that become so well known to you that it is as if these people live and breathe beside you.

To say I'll miss the Harry Potter hoopla, which some thought would never come to an end, is an understatement. When I closed the back cover to Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows four years ago, I knew my journey with Harry wasn't really over yet, because there would always be movies to come! Now, however, the anticipation of one more interpretation is almost done. I have a feeling there might be a few tears as those credits roll, but hopefully, those tears will be tinted with joy. For I know, that though the books and movies have come to a conclusion, Harry, Ron, and Hermione will still be a part of my life. How I look forward to sharing their stories with my children, and God willing, one day my grandchildren. I cannot wait to introduce them to the world of awe inspiring magic and wonderment that J.K. Rowling created for any person who is a child at heart.

I guess all I can end with is...thank you, Harry.

#50

2011-06-09T22:22:00.004-05:00

He is...

Alex P. Keaton

head over heels cooler than that stupid, lovelorn Jacob

the coolest time traveler EVER

one of the reasons I lived at home during college (hey, if it was good enough for Alex P...)

a diehard Who fan

Canada's greatest gift

an activist AND guitarist

a hopeless optimist that makes me ashamed to ever have a pessimistic outlook

the face of Parkinson's

constantly persevering

striving to conquer a crippling disease

one of my heroes

Michael J. Fox, and he's 50 today!

Click HERE for an article with some classic APK clips.

Click HERE for Brokeback to the Future

Click HERE for the classic 1987 Diet Pepsi ad

A Fright Night Delight

2011-05-21T23:11:00.003-05:00

Didn't know "my Doctor" was going to be in the Fright Night remake. Thanks to the "exclusive" first peek during the Tumberfoot SNL, I now know!

I don't know what it is about Colin Farrell, but I've never been a huge fan. I'm not swayed by his dark, brooding Irish looks, but I can get behind him when he plays "light" (Scrubs or In Bruges). It's when he thinks some hard ass or running around trying to be sexy that he gets under my skin. When I heard he had signed up for the Fright Night remake, I was actually impressed and thought I could get behind him in this. Now, I'll definitely be making an attempt to see it...if not in theaters than fo sho on the Netflix. I also enjoy the fact that my Australian girlfriend, Toni Collette, is in it, as well as some Mintz-Platz. Yup, I'll give it a whirl.

Oh, and P.S., I'll be up front and let you know I've never seen the original 1985 Fright Night, even if it does have Chris Sarandon and Roddy McDowell. Sorry, gents, but I might be seeing the bastardization before the original.

Post Smallville Finale

2011-05-14T22:35:00.002-05:00

I still haven't watched it, so don't give away any spoilers, but here are a couple of links for Smallville lovers like me.

Entertainment Weekly rates the best Smallville episodes. They didn't put together a cover article, but they rated the Top 9 eps. Really? Top NINE? Who does a Top NINE list? Whatevs, EW. You let me down this time.

Apparently Smallville ratings soar for finale. Well...duh. (Oh, and that pun wasn't intended. It was just natural.)

It's So Hard to Say Goodbye

2011-05-13T15:40:00.004-05:00

I was late to the Smallville party: didn't show up until five years in. I devoured the first five seasons on DVD, and then I kept playing catch up via DVD while new ones ran. The last few seasons I've been able to watch "live," but even that's been hard to keep up with. (Thanks to the CW's horrible programming: No new episodes for weeks at a time, then one new episode, then another three week break. Discouraging and frustrating!)

But now, here it comes: THE END. Smallville will exit the CW airwaves after 10 long years tonight. It's the end of an era. At times it's been slow moving. Sure, I've missed Lex loads. I still believe the show's best years were the first four. But, doggoneit, I'm gonna miss the knowledge that I can have some new Smallville stacked up in my DVR even more than the show's sometime weak story arcs.

Farewell, Welling's Clark. I hope I get to see you shake off the swift feet of the Blur and watch you take flight tonight.

THE WEDDING! (A Delayed Reaction Post)

2011-05-13T15:29:00.003-05:00

The dress! The horse-drawn carriage! The kiss! Wedding magic!

Prince William and his dear Kate have been married for two weeks, and I am just getting around to posting my thoughts! SHAME! As I watched the Royal Wedding, I filled out a Bingo card printed in the 4/15/11 edition of Entertainment Weekly. Let me tell you that filling out the card made being up at 4:00 a.m. not too bad at all.

I was joined by my 5-month-old son for part of the pre-show, and he also woke up again just in time for the "big" kiss at 6:30. I admit that I was hesitant to get up at first (much due to the derision from my husband), but by the end, I was so glad I woke up and saw this historical event. Sure, it did spin a bit out of control due to the constant media footage, but it was simply magical elegance. Below is a quick rundown (if you even still care two weeks later) in short, quick fragmented thought:

Hats? YES! Obelisks? NO!

What's up with old English ladies and monotone dress suits? No offense, mum.

Prince Phillip in the house! I hope I can walk straight and upright at 90...I hope I make 90.

Did you know Kate's a commoner? Cause after five minutes of pre-show you would've been reminded 6 times.

Sleeves! She has sleeves! (SOOOO sick of strapless, poofy wedding gowns.)

The most perfect, elegant, gorgeous dress I've ever seen. (I felt like a five-year-old girl when I saw it, cause that's what I want my dress to look like.

That kiss needed to be sexier...sorry, but it did.

The Day is Upon Us!

2011-04-28T07:37:00.005-05:00

It's finally happening, folks! After months of anticipation, the Royal Wedding is tomorrow. Did you really think BBB! would let this happen without a comment or two? Sinners.

I remember Chuck and Di's wedding back in '81. I was a young not even two-year-old bairn, and I still remember being awed and dazzled by that long, flowing train. My mom bought a special book, published by People magazine, and I would leaf through it gazing at the pictures of her sapphire ring, their horse-drawn coach, and the packed abbey. What a dream for a young girl!

Now, it's William's turn. How can I NOT get up at 4:00 a.m. tomorrow morning and watch!?! This isn't just an historic event: it's a pop culture event! I'll be on my couch, bleary eyed and pajama'ed up, full of anticipation at the first glimpse of the monarchy's newest couple. Will and Kate are truly the advent of a new era of the royal family. They're fresh, young, and ready to take over the world airwaves.

Get the popcorn pre-made, cause you'll be too tired to do so at 4 in the morning, get the double shots of espresso ready, and snuggle up to your pillows to enjoy the first royal wedding (anyone's cared about) in 28 years!

In My Own Defense

2011-04-27T20:46:00.005-05:00

I've gotten quite a bit of guff for making a comparison between Hanson and the Beatles during Dancing with the Stars' Guilty Pleasures week. Allow me, if you will, to come to my own defense.

Hanson has persevered. Many thought them to be a one-hit wonder, and maybe by popular standards they are: a majority of our American, and world, population only recollect their first single, MmmBop. I hate MmmBop. It was a cheesy, kid pop song written by, well, kids. The Brothers Hanson, however, have grown and matured into one of the most reliable and dependable pop song outfits in the business.

Three of their last four albums are in constant iPod rotation: This Time Around, The Walk, and Shout it Out. Their songs are well written, produced, and performed gems of pop wonder. Their tunes are catchy, upbeat, and infectious. Because of this, I compared them to the early Beatles years: they're both a group of young guys performing their hearts out, penning amazing tunes, and entertaining the masses. (Obviously, the Beatles entertained bigger masses than Hanson, because as stated earlier, people won't/can't forget MmmBop.) Both groups come together to create purely joyful uptempo songs and can bring it down with a ballad tightly woven together in delicate harmonies. Did I ever say Hanson would be as iconic as the Beatles? NO. Did I ever say they'd garner the same fanfare and recognition as the Beatles? NO (not even if the brothers lived to be 100). But, I do think one day, the academics of pop will look back on Hanson and realize they were given the short end of the musical stick because of one song they wrote when they were 13.

Hanson is a group of seasoned veterans who have matured past MmmBop 100 times over. If you like really good pop music, not sleeze made from a hit factory, then you should consider checking them out. I have to confess, I haven't enjoyed the mockery my good name has had to endure over the last 24 hours, but I can try to put them behind me now that I have taken time to fully explain my point and opinion.

The defense rests.

36 Hours of Who!

2011-04-22T12:16:00.003-05:00

You can watch all Doctor Who all the time on BBC America, starting today at 4 p.m. and going until 4 a.m. Sunday morning. Watch all of David Tennant's specials and all of Matt Smith's first season (including the Christmas special) in order to revved up for tomorrow's night's premiere, The Impossible Astronaut (Part I). There will also be some sweet retrospectives, as well as Tennant's last appearance on Graham Norton, interspersed. HAVE FUN!...Oh, and TRUST YOUR DOCTOR!!!

Trust Your Doctor

2011-04-21T09:33:00.002-05:00

That's the tagline for the new series, and I couldn't agree more. I'm the first to admit that I was unsure of our newest Doctor, Matt Smith. You all know how much I'd miss David Tennant, and with Matt Smith being so young, how could he ever portray the 900+ years of life, sorrow, and adventure of Doctor Who?

I'll also be the first to admit that Mr. Smith blew me out of the water with his angry, frustrated portrayal of everyone's favorite time traveling alien.

Rewatching the first series of the new Doctor [Smith] is getting my pumped for this Saturday's premiere (4/23/11) of his second series. For the first time in Doctor Who history, the show will be premiered on the same day on both sides of the Atlantic. I. Am. SOOOO EXCITED! The Doctor's literally coming to America, too, spending time in the wild west and D.C. with TWO companions. Yes, that's right, folks: if you didn't know, Rory, is part of the team!

So, pop your popcorn, get your comfy spot on the couch, and buckle up for another season of Doctor Who adventure!!!

A Simple Farewell

2011-04-20T11:33:00.002-05:00

BBB! is deeply saddened by the passing of Elisabeth Sladen, the amazing actress who played perhaps the most beloved of the Doctor's companions, Sarah Jane Smith. She was awesome, graceful, and gorgeous. To say she will be missed is an understatement. Take some time out to watch School Reunion tonight and remember this wonderful woman.

A Plea

2011-04-18T22:33:00.003-05:00

Please tell me you've read the book. Please tell me you aren't just going to see this because Pattinson's in it. Please tell me those two things.

P.S. Water for Elephants is absolutely stunning. I never thought I'd love a book about a 93 year-old-man telling about his life in the circus, but it's brilliant. Please read the book.

LAETTNAH!

2011-04-01T23:10:00.002-05:00

The Final Four is tomorrow, and the big NCAA Championship game is Monday night. With this in mind, I thought it might be time for a bit of reminiscing...

It was March Madness of 1991. I was watching some CBS basketball coveraget with my broham, and Christian Laettner bounced into my life. My brother hated him, hated Duke, and then hated me for loving the Laettner. I was a 12-year-old girl, he was a ballah, and cute...What did brother expect???

When Laettner hit a last second shot against Kentuck that will forever live in NCAA March Madness infamy, I tried to argue with my brother that Laettner was legit. When Laettner hit the pages of People's 50 Most Beautiful People, I thought I'd for sure prove to lil Andy that this guy was the real deal. Then Laettner was the only collegiate player on 1992 USA Olympic Dream Team. Fo sho Andrew'd get on my side now!...Except for the fact that Laettner clocked about 10 minutes the entire time in Barcelona. Oh, well, thought young me...he's still hot.

Here's to:

March Madness

my brief time cheering for Duke

that last second gorgeous shot that's still aired on CBS' tourney montages

CHRISTIAN LAETTNAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!

I Don't Need to Add This to the List

2011-03-30T22:07:00.004-05:00

OK, after only two weeks and two viewings, I think it's finally happened: I'm kinda obsessed with Dancing with the Stars. The only time I've ever watched it before is in Scotland with the in-laws. I didn't even watch when Joey Joe McIntyre was on, but I've been glued to the DVR the last two Mondays. (Seriously, who needs all the commercials!?! Record and fast forward, people!) Three stars in particular are rocking my feet off:

New girl crush, Chelsea Kane.

Loved her in Jonas, always thought she was uber cute, and I had to watch her experimental jive twice it was so fine.

WWE hottie, Chris Jericho.

This may be introducing him to a whole new lady fan base. Boy can move: I'm proud of him! (As if I've had anything to do with this at all...I just think it's awesome he's getting props in a new realm of entertainment.) I was very impressed with quickstep, too.

Childhood love, Ralph Macchio.

I was in love with him for a hot minute the summer Karate Kid came out, and I wanted to beat his you know what when he mentioned he was almost 50. (I'm tellin' ya, ladies, it's not fair how men only grow more handsome and distinguished, while we wither away.) I was totally floored by his routines, and he was in FIRST after the first two weeks.

Will any of my ponies win? Maybe Macchio, but the first two are definitely out, since they have fanbase niches they probably won't break out of. I'll just have to keep tuning in to see them until they go. Oh, and Kirstie Alley and Hines Ward? WAY impressed: totally. Here's to another fad in my life...CHEERS!

By Any Other Name...

2011-03-22T13:53:00.002-05:00

...he's just as awesome.

Call him Mal Reynolds. Call him Rick Castle. Call him Captain Hammer (you know what the hammer is). Heck, go back in the Way Back Machine and call him Joey Buchanan (what up, OLTL fans!?!). It doesn't matter: Nathan Fillion remains one of the coolest, awesomest, geekiest stars on the screen to date, and we here at BBB! love him.

We've devoted a post to him before, but with his fantastic cover story in this week's Entertainment Weekly, it looks like mainstream media is finally getting on board with the reason we still watch Castle. (Sorry, but would YOU watch that show without Fillion? I don't think so.) From singing catchy Whedon tunes to butchering slitering horror beasts to being the calm, quiet token male in a quaint indie flick, he's the bee's knees. We just hope he's finally becoming a household name after years of answering the question, "You like Nathan Who?"

BBB! salutes you, Mr. Fillion(...and that wunderkind Joss Whedon who gave you the big push into our households with the Firefly-Buffy, one-two punch)!!!

Marius, Oh Marius

2011-03-09T12:28:00.004-06:00

Last Sunday, I caught the 25th anniversary performance of Les Miserables on PBS. (Steven Keaton would be so proud.) 15 years ago, when I was a young, impressionable high schooler, I saw the 10th anniversary show on the same local PBS affiliate, WILL. Of course both were shown during pledge time, to pull in the big bucks. (Again, Mr. Keaton would be proud.) I was mildly surprised to see 1/3 of the Brothers Jonas in this latest reincarnation of one of the best musicals ever. (Mildly, cause where else to go for a teen pop star than London's West End???) My review is most definitely mixed.

While I give young Nick mad props for trying to drop his pop-only image*, I think he was trying a leeeetle to hard to impress the audience. His face often looked pained while singing, and his falsetto was wavery and weak. He did a good job for a young 20-something, but I have Michael Ball in mind...the huge, gigantic voice of Michael Ball, whose performance in the 10th anniversary show made me goose-pimply. (His dimples may have helped in that.) I enjoyed seeing the show on PBS again, but the 10th anniversary concert show is far superior, all the way from Valjean to Eponine (the amazing Lea Salonga, who took over duties as Fantine this go-around) to the subject of this entry, Marius.

But, don't hesitate to do yourself a favor and catch this latest performance if your station throws it on again before pledge drive is over: It's still better than going to the Assembly Hall to see something. (ZING!)

*How I pray Bieber doesn't follow his lead and try to take over Broadway. I'd throw up in mouth.

Kidz These Days

2011-03-03T22:50:00.002-06:00

Once again I find myself wishing I could live in a place where these chaps are appreciated. It's Take That, by the way. Have you listened to Progress yet? Get on it, like, yesterday. At least I have the youtubes...and the CD my in-laws sent me.

Apparently...

2011-03-03T22:38:00.002-06:00

...Growing Pains, season 2, is coming out on DVD April 26. (That's my grandfather's 82nd birthday, by the way, and I now I know juuuuuuuust what to get him.) There is no cover art on amazon yet, and season 1 came out on DVD FIVE years ago. I've been waiting and waiting. This better be no jive, or I'll pull a Tracey Gold and not eat until it comes out. (Seeing as I have a lot of baby fat to lose yet, this might be a good plan.)

If the news is true, we just need to get the ball rolling again for my favorite TV family ever, the Keatons. Seasons 1-5 came out, and then production came to a halt. Me wants 6 and 7, too! Help me relive my television youth, somebody...please!

SEXY FEET!

2011-02-28T20:23:00.001-06:00

If you went to sleep as soon as the Oscars were over, you missed something big...something HUGE: Tom Hanks next Oscar winning role as himself, the Pag Dad.

Katharine the Great

2011-02-25T22:06:00.003-06:00

Gorgeous. Witty. Intelligent. Best voice ever. Heckuva sportie. Connecticut's most prized citizen.

In my opinion, she's the greatest actress that's ever lived. Oscar would agree. The great Katharine Hepburn was nominated for 12 Academy Awards and took home four* for: 1933's Morning Glory, 1967's Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?, 1968's The Lion in Winter, and 1981's On Golden Pond. On Golden Pond was the first film I ever saw with this amazing lady, I was five, and I cried. Oh, sure, you might say. A five-year-old will cry at anything. I actually cried because I was moved beyond words as she got down on the ground with her dying husband, telling him how much she loved him. I didn't know exactly why I was crying all of a sudden, but I knew I was feeling her sadness at the thought of him leaving her after all the years they had spent together. It was then I fell in love with movies...and her. The fact that these moving pictures contained stories and characters that became real and can make you celebrate, rejoice, and cry with them.

Meryl Streep is a close second to the Hepburn of the Katharine variety, and she's also fantastically talented. I've really come to appreciate Streep as of late. She'll never be as great as Kate, though...no one will.

*Five, you count the Supporting Actress Oscar Cate Blanchett got for playing her in 2004's The Aviator.

To Live & Die by the Red Carpet

2011-02-25T21:14:00.002-06:00

I love everything about the Oscars: the glitz, the glamor, the witty pitter patter before each statue is handed out, the celebration of moving pictures that truly are moving, and of course, the red carpet fasion. While I'll be talking about the winners the next day around the water cooler (or copier machine, in my case), many just focus on who wore what and who looked, well...terrible.

Yahoo! has tried to rival VF's Hollywood catalog by putting together some of the worst Oscar fashion atrocities in recent years. There are some humdingers available for your perusal, but my favorite fashion mishap is at left. Nothing says 1989 like a sweet pair of velvet biker shorts.

Day 26

2011-02-25T21:05:00.002-06:00

TCM's 31 Days of Oscar is nearing its end, and it's celebrating the eve of Oscar in a big way. Catch the three Oscar sweepers on this Saturday, February 26. Click HERE for the times and rundown. You can start your day off with some classic remakes, many consider better than the originals (too bad you can't say that more these days, huh, Hollywood?). After the big three, stay tuned for some real-life, bad-A women portrayed by Jessica Lange and Meryl Streep. Not a bad day before the big day.

Gettin' Revved Up

2011-02-22T22:16:00.003-06:00

Here are a few Oscar sites to help you along your way this week before the big shoo:

Vanity Fair 2011 Hollywood Portfolio catches the best of the best for the 17th year in a row. I've only missed out on one in the past 17 years, and I'm still mad. If you don't want to shell out the cash, check out the gorgeous snapshots here.

Turner Classic Movies celebrates the Academy Awards every year with their 31 Days of Oscar. See the best of the best, unedited, and commercial free. TCM is the best movie channel on cable, premium or no.

The Official Oscar site offers you a ballot for your party, daily Oscar trivia, plus those splashy commercials starring this year's hosts.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences offers insight into the academy, a list of the past winners, and gives the lowdown on all that other "stuff" (for example, that film preservation that Scorsese is always on about) the AMPAS does, besides that big, flashy show once a year.

How to Win Oscar

2011-02-21T21:11:00.003-06:00

It's often been said that truth is better than fiction, and smart actors live by this adage. You're almost guaranteed to bring home a golden boy if you're man/woman enough to walk in someone else's shoes. From Sean Penn to Helen Mirren to last year's golden girl, Sandra Bullock: if you want some Oscar gold, go for the real deal. Below you'll find a short list (from the 80's to the present) of some of my favorite acting greats who've nabbed Oscar by getting real.

Best Actress:

Sissy Spacek as Loretta Lynn
Nicole Kidman as Virginia Woolf
Resse Witherspoon as June Carter Cash
Helen Mirren as Queen Elizabeth II
Marion Cotillard as Edith Piaf
Sandra Bullock as Leigh Anne Tuohy

Best Actor:

Ben Kingsley as Gandhi
F. Murray Abraham as Antonio Salieri
Jeremy Irons as Klaus von Bulow
Philip Seymour Hoffman as Truman Capote
Forest Whittaker as Idi Amin
Sean Penn as Harvey Milk
Colin Firth as King George VI (c'mon...it's a lock)

There are always exceptions to rules, even in the land of Oscar. Denzel Washington, nominated for playing Malcolm X, in Spike Lee's fierce and fiery X, was denied Oscar in 1992. 8-time nominee, and first time winner, Al Pacino, took home the coveted statue that evening for his portrayal of suicidal ex-Marine, Col. Frank Slade in Scent of a Woman. (Great tango scene, by the way.)

Sweeping Oscar

2011-02-20T12:18:00.007-06:00

Few have done it; many have tried. You might think there have been many Oscar sweeps. Surely such cinematic greats as Gone with the Wind, Citizen Kane, West Side Story, Gandhi, and American Beauty have swept the Oscars. Nay, my friends, nay. Only three have accomplished this fete in Oscars' 80+ years.

Let's rewind a bit. What constitutes a sweep? A film must take home the little gold man for the five major Oscar categories: Best Film, Director, Actor, Actress, and Screenplay. The three cinematic gems that have accomplished this are as follows:

1934's love story, It Happened One Night. Clark Gable and Claudette Colbert sizzled with chemistry in this Frank Capra classic.

1975's study of sanity, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Milos Forman brought big guns, Jack Nicholson and Louise Fletcher, to the screen in this adaptation of Ken Kesey's novel of a psych ward where the inmates strive to take over. You'll never look at a nurse's whites the same way again after watching Louise Fletcher's calm and eerie portrayal of Nurse Ratched.

1991's psychological thriller, Silence of the Lambs. This one gave us a new, classic recipe for fava beans and chianti, Jodie Foster her second golden gentleman, and Sir Anthony Hopkins a much-deserved first.

An honorary sweep goes to the final installment of already classic nerd trilogy, Lord of the Rings. The Return of the King was nominated for 11 Oscars in 2003, and it took home every one. However, none of the fine actors (specifically, Sean Astin) were recognized for their work.

There's no chance of a true sweep this year, but tune in on Sunday, February 27, to see if The King's Speech can do a pseudo-sweep with a Supporting Actress Oscar going to the ever eccentric Helena Bonham-Carter. It's a long shot, but could happen...especially after their sweep at the BAFTAs.

Are You Ready???

2011-02-19T15:01:00.002-06:00

8 days and counting until the 83rd Academy Awards! Have you made your Oscar picks? Do you have your annual Hollywood issue of Vanity Fair to drool over until the Red Carpet? How do you feel about the big star co-hosts? Did you place a bet AGAINST Colin Firth winning for Best Actor?...Cause if you did, you won't be rewarded for gambling big.

Only 8 days left to get ready, so get those ballots printed, invite some chums over, and get some fondue pots out for some classy eats...IT'S OSCAR TIME!

Getting Reacquainted with Old Friends

2011-02-17T16:11:00.002-06:00

It's wonderful having a newborn.  So many things to be grateful and excited about: first smiles, lil giggles, cute outfits with itty bitty feets attached, and midnight feedings.  Wait.  What did I just say?  Midnight feedings are fun?  Why, YES, they ARE.

Not only did I manage to watch every episode of Gilmore Girls in 7 weeks, finding new friends to know and love, I've also been able to revisit an oft overlooked spin-off series, Angel. Sure everyone always remembers Buffy, but what about a Angel (sic)? The die-hards remember, but not the everyday Joe of TV viewership. Season 3 has to be one of the most spectacular, well put together seasons of television of all time. I had hesitations going into Season 4, because how could it be anywhere as good? Well, it certainly comes very close. And, while Season 5 has more stand-alone episodes than a final season should, it's still bloody brilliant (pun INtended).

Maybe you could care less about a show six years dead, maybe you could care less about Jossy Whedon and his vampire universe, but seriously, folks, this is some fine television. Darkly comedic, tragically romantic, and genuinely entertaining. (Oh, and the cast's not too hard on the eyes, either. Seriously, everyone of 'em. Kinda disgusting.) Do yourself a favor and check out...and forgive me for not reporting on this sooner. :)

And, the Oscar Goes To...

2011-02-12T18:47:00.002-06:00

Meryl Streep for her role as former UK PM, Margaret Thatcher. What's that, you say? You don't remember seeing her on an Oscar ballot? Well, that's because she'll be receiving it at next year's big show. Seriously, people. If you're Meryl Streep and a script for a Maggie Thatcher role comes across your table, you take it, cause you know some Oscar gold is in your future. Good luck, Ms. Streep, and start getting that acceptance speech ready now.

WHAT TO DO!?!

2011-01-16T18:13:00.004-06:00

It's my favorite awards night of the year, and it's the premier of my favorite show on TV. What to do? What to watch? Well, actually, I totally know what to do.

I am so stoked to revel in some Golden Globes tonight! I want to see the Bale win (I totally have him pegged to get a supporting actor award, cause he's too young and crazy to get the best actor statue yet). I also can't wait to see me some Gervais. He's been a close friend, since the ORIGINAL (and better) Office. We've been tight ever since, and it's great to see him bring his comedic genius to the American masses. And, once again, I love the GG's the best, cause they honor the best in TV and movies.

Then, I'm stoked to watch some Big Love on the parents' DVR. It's the last season, folks: playtime is OVAH. Season 4 was devoured in THREE DAYS. (That's what happens when there's only 9 episodes, and you're up all hours of the night and day feeding a wee one.) Season 4 blew my mind, and I cannot wait to see what the final season offers up.

Another One Off the Market

2011-01-04T18:35:00.003-06:00

All the single guys are going off the market, ladies. First it was Robbie Williams, and now it's our favorite Doctor, Mr. Tennant*. Tennant's reported to be engaged to former Who co-star, Georgia Moffett. (She is 13 years his junior, with an 8-year-old kid, but we're not one to gossip.) Coincidentally, Moffett is the daughter of our second favorite Doctor, Peter Davison, so one could say she's keeping it in the family. Hmmm? Something Freudian-fishy going on here???

On a separate note, I was a bit surprised to find this Who news reported on the MTV website. Guess this means Who is really becoming a part of mainstream American pop culture. About time!

*Thanks be to BBB!'s good friend, Alyssa, who informed us of the happy (?) news.

Blood Brothers

2011-01-02T13:43:00.002-06:00

My brother's in a critically acclaimed film, heralded during awards season, working with Christian Bale, and I'm touring with the Backstreet Boys. I'm totally okay with it. I mean, I got to ring in the New Year with Dick Clark and Ryan Seacrest...oh, and Ke$ha, too. I mean this tour thing, totally my brainchild, so joke's oh him...Yeah...joke's on him.

Goodbye, Old Friend

2010-12-30T19:35:00.004-06:00

If you've been a faithful reader, you may know that New Year is not my favorite celebration of the year. While others are psyched to look forward, I find myself sullen and sad at the thought of great times ending. Oh, sure, I should be a glass half full kinda gal, and look forward to all of the great times to be had, but I still get a pang of sorrow at saying goodbye to another 12 months. Well, this year, it'll be even harder to mark the closing of 365 days.

For the past 12 months, I've been able to say hello and goodbye to "my" Doctor as I've walked out my back door into another day. I've loved seeing the cocked eyebrow, my favorite companions, and seeing the greatest stories of Mr. Tennant relived in the 12 month calendar that hangs to the left of my exit. Tomorrow will be the last day I get to do that, so thus officially ends the run of my Doctor. For most of you, it ended over a year ago, when he said goodbye and Matt Smith took over the driver's seat of the TARDIS, but I've had the calendar to cling to. That will soon end.

So if you see me on the street in the next few days, looking even more bummed than usual at the beginning of a new year, that may be the reason (or it could be the fact that I have a lot of baby weight to lose in the first few months of the year...yeah, or it could be that...). So long, Doctor Tennant. The ride's been phenomenal.

Rumination

2010-12-26T19:48:00.002-06:00

Another Christmas has come and gone, and I confess that this Christmas did not see the best of me. I am completely ashamed of myself after this Christmas. I took my most favorite day of the year, the most joyous and blessed day of the year at that, and wasted it stressing about things and stuck in a semi-depressive state instead of reveling in the reason for the season and the simple joy that is family. I guess everyone should have one Christmas Carol experience, and this Christmas was mine. Why waste time worrying about things when God's watching and everything will turn out as it should be? Even worrying and stressing about important things, like two wee babes, isn't as important as enjoying the day that God sent us His only Son. Cause, guess what? God's going to provide the babes, too, and make sure I have time to give them what they need.

You never know what could happen tomorrow. You never know who could be with you next Christmas...or who might be without you. I don't say this to be a downer, but I say this to encourage you to spend everyday living and laughing to the fullest. Make your heart burst with joy and thanksgiving everyday. Cause, it really is a wonderful life. No more worrying on Christmas. No more stressing about things on that wonderful day. I may have screwed up yesterday, but I'll be hanged if I let my pety worries and fears and disappointments get in the way of another Christmas.

RayRay's Newest Competition

2010-12-15T22:35:00.003-06:00

Everybody's been doin' it since RayRay started it almost 10 years ago, but she might have some real competition now.

Jamie Oliver's newest cookbook, Jamie's 30 Minute Meals, has just broke records in the UK, and is now the nation's fastest selling non-fiction book. Can you blame the folks, though? I'm sure Jamie will have a lot more to offer than 28 different ways to do a fake lasagna or 15 different chili recipes. Don't get me wrong: I love me some Rachael. But seriously, you can only do so many things with ground beef before you want to throw up at the thought of it.

I can't wait to get my greedy lil hands on this new cookbook. I hope others are trying to cook more at home and eat out less. It's a constant struggle, even for me, especially in our society when it's so easy to hop in the car and get food so quickly. Just remember: the extra time you spend in the kitchen will always have so many more benefits for your health, walet, and family time spent together (to name only three).

Keep an eye out for Jamie's book when it hits the states, and for now, don't be ashamed to dabble in some RayRay fine cuisine. ;)

Lost in Stars Hollow

2010-12-15T15:45:00.002-06:00

OK! I KNOW! I'm 10 years late! But, I can't help that. The same thing happened with Smallville. I got on the bandwagon too late. The only trouble is, I got on this bandwagon WAY too late...as in the show's been canned for years too late.

My good buddy, Matt Hollabackhollenbeck, always told me I'd love the show. He said my mind would reel at the number of pop culture references, and he's absolutely right. So, what is going on with me? I'm watching at least two episodes a night when doing late night feedings, and I'm totally...well...obsessed may be too strong, but it's close enough just to be right.

The more I watch the more I appreciate the numerous pop culture references, everything from the Brady Bunch to Dobie Gillis to NSYNC. It's a dream come true for me. I make it a game to try to figure out all the references, but even this pop culture princess has trouble from time to time. (Note to self: Must read some Dorothy Parker.) The writing's impeccable: fast, sly, witty, with a pinch of sardonic sarcasm. Love it.

At this point, I still don't like Jesse, though I'm told his just misunderstood (right, Cori?). Sookie's absolutely adorable. Michele is divinely catty, and Luke Danes is THE best. Perhaps my favorite character in any WB/CW teen drama. Although I firmly believe this one goes beyond teen drama, and I will defend its honor to my husband (who is to blame for all of this, since he actually got the entire series for me for my birthday).

A Christmas Present You Don't Have to Wrap

2010-12-14T12:25:00.002-06:00

FINALLY! This year for the first time since its regeneration, BBC America will air the Doctor Who Christmas special ON Christmas night. We here at BBB! are tres excited. This news was actually released several days ago, but being with the new babe in the house, we're just getting around to it now. Also, the Christmas season wouldn't be complete without at least one Doctor Who post on BBB! Hope you get a chance to watch! :)

Tis the Season to Be...

2010-12-14T11:04:00.003-06:00

JEFF BRIDGES!!!

Wouldn't you want to be the Dude, too, if you had two stellar films arriving in time for the holidays? TRON: Legacy opens this Friday, December 17, and I confess, even with a brand new, bright, cuddly bundle of joy at home, I just a leeeeeeetle bit jealous of those of you who get to view this film in 3-D at your local cineplex. (I, of course, have the better present, but still, I'm being honest with my twinges of jealousy I feel everytime I see a preview.) And, only Jeff Bridges could make me want to see a John Wayne re-make...well, and you add the Coen Brothers, Matty Damon, and Josh Brolin to the mix, and I'm pretty much putty in your hands. These will both be at the top of my Netflix queue when they are available on DVD. Let's be honest, though: I might just go straight to the Amazon shopping cart to purchase TRON: Legacy on Blu-Ray.

Have a Merry Christmas, Jeff Bridges, and I hope everyone enjoys your awesome performances on the big screen for me. CHEERS!

And, Baby Makes FOUR :)

2010-12-14T10:59:00.002-06:00

Our newest addition, Kean Malcolm, entered our hearts and lives on December 2, 2010. Just as with the first wee one, this one has caused a delay in blog reports, but what better excuse could there be for a delay than a new bairn? We love him madly already. Now, if I could only figure out what to do with him when I go see TRON: Legacy.

Serenity+Gunslinger (with a Dash of Sassy Iron Man)

2010-11-18T18:39:00.005-06:00

Not since Serenity has the idea of cowboys and aliens felt so right. And, don't let the title fool you: this is going to be EH. PICK. I don't think I have enough words to describe how excited I am about this new film. Words aren't coming to me quickly enough, so let me just spill some out:

Harrison Ford as a cowboy.
Jonny Favreau directing.
Ronny Howard and Stevie Spielberg producing.
I like making their names childlike.
Except Harrison Ford is too much the man to do that to.
Oh, and Daniel Craig's in the mix, too.
I'm nerding out.
Ohgoshohgoshohgosh!!!

Click HERE for the trailer. Seriously...I don't usually wish the days away, but come on summer!

Oh, and P to the S, after seeing the trailer, I now want Harrison Ford to play Roland in the Dark Tower adaptation. A girl can dream...

NKOTB Catastrophe

2010-11-12T19:55:00.003-06:00

I don't like it.

I don't like it.
I DON'T LIKE IT.

(OK, however, the picture on the front page of the website [above] is not terrible.) Oh, and they have their OWN website!?! Boston Boys, you DON'T NEED THEM! They rode your coattails to millions. Don't ride their's to more comeback millions. Your reunion tour was IN-CREDIBLE! You did an amazing comeback album, so I'll say it again (for the fourth time): YOU DON'T NEED THEM!

And, bee to the dubs, I know this has been news for weeks, but it's taken me a long time to finally commit to the words. My words, as you have read, are limited and not too flattering. Here's the awful truth, though: I still might try to get tickets (Friday, June 17, in Chicago). I have been ruminating on my NKOTB concert from April 2009, and I want to see them again. They were simply outstanding. (You can read about it in the archives.) Just the thought of them with the BSB leaves a sticky, horrible taste in my mouth.

HUB-bub, HUB-bub, HUB-bub

2010-11-06T14:51:00.003-05:00

As if it wasn't grace enough that the Cooking Channel showed the Galloping Gourmet all summer, but now I have something to keep me warm and snuggly throughout the cold fall and winter months.

What would you do if I sang outta tune? Would you stand up and walk out on me? Sure you could think of these as the opening lines to a Beatles songs, but because of Kevin Arnold, Winnie Cooper, and Paul Pfeiffer, the only I think of when I hear those word are the opening 8 mm family video reels of the Wonder Years. HUB, an amazing channel fighting to keep some 80's pop culture alive, shows Wonder Years EVERY NIGHT, and re-runs the week's shows on the weekends. What would I do without Cori, who told me of this wonderful delight of a channel??? HUB also shows Doogie Howser, Family Ties, G.I. Joe, and Fraggle Rock. I'm telling you, contact your local cable operator NOW, and demand HUB (and the Cooking Channel, too, if you haven't yet).

Now if we could only get Growing Pains in the rotation, I'd never change the channel ever...if when my daughter gives me her big-eyed stares to turn on Wyatt and the Super Readers.

An Emo Supes?

2010-11-05T13:15:00.004-05:00

New Superman graphic novel!
New Superman graphic novel!

NEW!

SUPERMAN!

GRAPHIC!

NOVEL!

It's out in time for my birthday, too! According to Yahoo!'s omg section, the new Supes is rather emo, lookin' a bit like Pattinson, and wearin' skinny ties and low ridin' trousers. Don't know if I feel good about that, but I'm rarin' to read! Superman: Earth One, a reimagining of Superman's origins, is available NOW.

Click HERE to purchase from amazon and get more info.

PAUL

2010-10-20T22:08:00.002-05:00

Simon Pegg + Nick Frost + Jason Bateman + Seth Rogan's voice=a Surefire Way to Get My Hardearned Cash.

Thanks to Husband...AGAIN...I have new upcoming movie info that almost made my mind explode. I cannot wait for this March to see the latest theatrical installment from Shaun of the Dead and Hot Fuzz super duo, Simon Pegg and Nick Frost. PAUL looks like the feel-good alien movie of 2011. Let's just hope there's a Cornetto in there somewhere.

Click HERE for the teaser trailer and some extra info (if you even need any).

If You Didn't Know...

2010-10-16T12:57:00.003-05:00

2010 marks the 25th anniversary of my favorite movie of all time ever, Back to the Future. Recently there's been a flurry of press about this monumental anniversary. I've made several BTTF-related posts in the last few months, and today marks another one.

Run to your nearest newsstand, or B&N in this day and age, and pick up the newest edition of Entertainment Weekly. It includes a bevy of cast reunions, including a nice BTTF article starring Calvin Klein and Lorraine Baines-McFly. You could also click HERE to see some awesome photos and videos of the reunions if you don't want to splurge on the magazine. Plus you could tune in to CNN tonight for a televised version of EW's reunion spread. It's playing at 10/9 p.m. central.

I love all the mad props, but I have to say, I hope I'm still around for the 50th anniversary. :)

P.S. If you do go to the EW link above, check out the Lord of the Rings reunion. I met that sweet guy on the left. He's almost as awesome as MJF. ;)

These Guys

2010-10-13T20:50:00.003-05:00

It's been awhile since you've seen 'em, huh? Well, BBB! was just a leeeeeeetle too excited today when they found out the 2000 SNL with Joshua Jackson and *NSYNC would be re-run on VH-1 next Monday, October 18, at 5/4 p.m. Yup, the DVR's already been set. Might even come home early from work to watch it with the wee one. There will be other showings, so please check your local listings. And, while you're at it, get out those old CD's! Dust 'em off, throw 'em in the ole player, and get crunck with the space cowboys. Aw, yeeeeeeeeeeeah!

I Still Can't Watch Sister Wives, but This is FINE!

2010-10-13T16:05:00.003-05:00

Why oh why do my polygamist friends always get released on DVD after my birthday and Christmas??? *sigh* At least lil buddy and I will have some good watchin' in the middle of the night when he wakes up for food. ;) I cannot wait to see one of my favorites, Sissy Spacek, take over! C'mon January 4!

Click HERE to pre-order.

Eat Your Heart Out, Rachael

2010-10-11T14:40:00.002-05:00

BBB!'s favorite celebrity chef, Jamie Oliver, now has his own 30 minute meal show. The only hitch? As of now, you can only catch it on the UK's Channel 4. BUUUUUUUUUT, you can still get the recipes from his website. This 30 minute recipe for Piri Piri chicken would make Rachael Ray sweat out her day job. It also includes a dessert...a REAL dessert...not just berries thrown on top of store-bought sponge cake with Cool Whip. OH ZING!

Check out Jamie's website for updated 30 minute meals every week. And, keep his Food Revolution alive: send your kids to school with a healthy, packed lunch! No more frozen lunch food for this generation!

Ultimate Robbie

2010-10-11T13:35:00.003-05:00

Today marks the release of Robbie Williams' second greatest hits compilation, and let me just say this: he went all out. Not only does it have an amazing new duet with former Take That mate, Gary Barlow, but he's also released an ultimate addition that has this super fan having kittens. (Actually, kittens and cats are my mortal enemies, and I would hate to have one if uber excited. How about I'm having rabbits instead?)

In and Out of Consciousness: The Ultimate Edition has 3 CD's and 3 DVD's. The DVD's include ALL of his videos, plus a live concert from Berlin, while the extra CD's include ALL of his B-sides. (Think Pearl Jam's Lost Dogs. I am, and I'm about to wet myself at the prospect.) I'm usually very wary of someone releasing a greatest hits effort so early in their career, and the fact that Robbie is on his SECOND leaves me very skeptical. However, once I saw this glamorous ultimate effort, I had to just buckle, and paraphrase the words of Veruca Salt: I want it, I want it now.

Here's the deal, peeps: birthday's coming up in a little over a month. If this isn't waiting for me, I'll be just a leeeeeetle bit disappointed. If it's not, Christmas is always offers a second chance.

LINKS:

Buy the Ultimate Edition

Buy the [lame] Regular Edition--If you're a US resident, buy it NOW. It's only 4 pounds until this Sunday, which makes the price okay even including shipping.

Robbie's Official Website

Reason #838 I Love the 80's

2010-10-10T12:41:00.003-05:00

The feathered hair. The Members Only jackets. The skin tight police officer man uniforms. Adrien Zmed. These are only four reasons I am so excited Universal HD TV network is airing T.J. Hooker. Let me add one more reason: IT'S IN HIGH DEFINTION.

Seriously, folks, I had forgotten how amazing T.J. Hooker is. (...or, was? Not sure what's proper there...too excited to care.) And to watch the amazing Bill Shatner and Adrien Zmed in HD is almost too much for this 80's gal to handle. The stand-offs are more exciting; the dialogue more zing-worthy; the furrowed brows more prominent. Oh, and you can see every single strand of Heather Locklear's feathered hair perfectly. (Sure she was just Aaron Spelling's new Farrah Fawcett, but she wore that feathered hair almost as well.)

I'm just so excited for 6:00 p.m. Friday nights to roll around. Please check it out if you have the UHD. You won't be sorry.

11/19/10

2010-09-22T21:17:00.001-05:00

I cannot even tell you how excited I am for my 31st birthday.

THIS is the reason why.

IT'S COMING!!!

2010-09-12T22:46:00.002-05:00

Yes, I have it on VHS.

Of course I own it on DVD.

Now comes the grandaddy of 'em all*...BLU-RAY!

Place your pre-order at amazon NOW! Click HERE, and hopefully something shiny will be waiting in your mailbox on or about October 26.

*Until new technology makes this one obsolete.

Still a SHAME...

2010-09-05T22:12:00.003-05:00

...people don't know their name.

Click HERE for the latest, greatest video from Robbie Williams and Gary Barlow. The two have united for one superb duet for Robbie's new greatest hits collection, coming to your (UK) stores in October. The song is, well, genius. The video is very Brokeback Mountainish at times, and it once again proves how unfair it is that men get more handsome with age. (Never EVER thought Mr. Barlow was anything short of awkwardly ugly until this, now in his 30s with stubble...whatever.)

Do yourself a solid and check it out.

Oh. Em. Geeeeeeee.

2010-09-05T20:03:00.002-05:00

I'll be the first to admit that I thought TRON Legacy was a REALLY bad idea. I'm so sick of remakes and long overdue sequels. But, holy crow, when I saw the trailer before Inception last night, I almost fell out of my chair I got so excited.

The whole time I was thinking, "Please let it be a Thanksgiving release. Please let it be a Thanksgiving release." Why? Well, because Minion #2 is coming on/around December 1, and everything in the Christmas/awards season will be out of play for me. You can't imagine my disappointment when the 12.17.10 date hit the screen. Oh, well. I'll miss my 3-D TRON sequel. Guess I'll just have to try and be patient until the DVD next spring...At least I have a new boy to look forward to. And, now, maybe a name is coming to me...yes, here it comes...Jeff Bridges McFarlane. NIIIIIIIICE!!!

Click HERE for the trailer.

A Decade in the Making

2010-08-30T19:48:00.004-05:00

Here we are again, folks. The beginning of a new TV season. And, here we are again, burdened with high hopes for the new season of Smallville. I know I was doubtful this summer, but I have to watch this season: it's the LAST one (finally).

Yes, I've gone on and on AND on about how disappointing the last few seasons have been. Yes, I still miss Lex and Lana. Yes, I want Clark (not the Man of Steel yet, mind you) to get him some specs for the day, tights for the night, and FLY. Yes, somehow, some way, I have hope that the series will end on a high note.

Delusional? Maybe. Hopeful? Always.

Anyhoo...start tuning in to your local CW on Friday, September 24, for the all new FINAL season of Smallville. I hope we won't be sorry. If you need to get caught up:

Click HERE for the CW site where you can watch full episodes. I think I missed about 13 from last season, so maybe I should take my own advice.
Click HERE to buy Season 9 and watch on your own time. The cover art is kickin', don't cha think???

Informative Graph

2010-08-30T17:58:00.002-05:00

I know, I know...It's not even Christmas, and you're getting TWO BTTF graphics in ONE day! I have my husband to thank for this one. Perhaps the first graph I've ever understood on the first read. Now, if I could just remember which is the X-axis and which is the Y...?

The Future is NOW

2010-08-30T17:51:00.002-05:00

WHAT'S THAT!?!? You didn't hear Nike finally has some Power Laces in the work? I have two things to say:

1) It's ABOUT time!

2) Where's my Hover Board???

P.S. I would've posted on this looooooong ago, like the same day I saw it on AOTS last week, but with a baby running around and papers to grade, other things come first. ;)

Move Over, Keogh!

2010-08-23T17:55:00.003-05:00

Phil Keogh, that is, cause Food Network's ultimate, Tyler Florence, is at the helm of the newest cross-country racin' show, The Great Food Truck Race. And, man oh MAN, is it GREAT!

I am completely in love with this show.

1) It's about food trucks. Nothin' like gettin' your food on the go from a tasty, clean (?) truck.

2) It's a race. Um...enough said.

3) I absolutely love watching Tyler doing his best Phil. I seriously think the FN heads gave him 10 seasons of Amazing Race to watch just to study Phil's point and cocking of the eyebrow. Classic Keogh. Tyler's good, but not as good as our Phil. (Who is really???)

4) Speaking of the Race...not only is Ty doing his Phil, but there are also Road Blocks...um, I mean TRUCK STOPS along the way. Whoever wins these gets immunity.

5) Yes, teams are having meltdowns, there are attitudes, and there are greasy guys who never get to shower. PLUS, there's food. It's like God touched the FN programmers and told them exactly what would pull me in. (Well, not the greasy guys. I just like to root against them and yell at them to shower.)

If you love eatin', cookin', and racin', you GOTS TO tune in. I'm just sorry my post is so late. This Sunday will be the third week, but it's also Free On Demand, if you're blessed with that cable perk. If not, set those DVR's stat!

Bon appetit!

One More Bit on Our Robbie

2010-08-21T20:05:00.002-05:00

Just an FYI that even if you live in the states you can still get all of your Robbie wedding details. I just purchased the issue of HELLO!, Britain's top gossip rag, at my local Barnes & Noble. I know you can do the same. And, if you're a member, you'll save 69 cents! (Was that a plug? Did I just plug B&N? Oh, I still miss Pages so much.)

If you're one of the few that live in an area rampant with Robbie fans, and the rag's sold out before you get there, just click HERE to read an excerpt from the article. ENJOY!

And, In Baseball News...

2010-08-18T17:22:00.003-05:00

In a year frought with woes, from losing Ryan Theriot to losing, well tons of games, the Cubs upper echelons have now decided to extend the crying fits of their fans for an undetermined, yet sure to be LONG, amount of time:

They have traded the classiest, most handsome and gentlemanly player they've had since Ryne Sandberg, #25 Derek Lee.

We here at BBB! don't even really know where to begin. We're HUGE Lee fans, and we are going to miss his first base presence more than we can put into words. Sure he's had a bit of a slump this season, but so has the WHOLE, ENTIRE team. I'll still wear my Lee pinstripes with pride when I go back to the Friendly Confines...though when that will be I have no idea now. The idea of going to Wrigley without D-Lee leaves a nasty, funky, horrible taste in my mouth.

I hate the upper office's faces...ALL of their faces. And, for the one who signed off on the final deal, I may want your head mounted on my wall. Just kidding...???

ELVIS DEAD DAY '10

2010-08-16T08:17:00.002-05:00

It's the 33rd anniversary of the King of Rock n Roll's death. What are you doing? Apparently, I'm not watching a marathon of his films on TCM, because they deemed the day too unworthy for one. Oh, and I get to go to work*. I can guarantee I'll be blasting the E-Man through my windows on the way and trying to catch a few minutes of That's the Way It Is when I get home, though.

*Balls on school starting this early. If this keeps up, I won't be able to make the 35th anniversary in a couple of years.

One Reason to LOVE the Cooking Channel

2010-08-15T21:33:00.004-05:00

Recently my wonderful husband upgraded our cable package. One reason he did this? Cause I could get the Cooking Channel. (Yeah, I KNOW! How GREAT is he?) Aside from having lots of Giader, tons of Tyler, and Jamie Oliver everyday, it also has my favorite chef from my youth, the one who got me addicted to cooking shows: the Galloping Gourmet.

Oh, Graham Kerr...How I adore thee. Everyday I gallop to my set at 2:30/1:30 p.m. to see my wonderful friend, in his garish (well, stylish for then) 70's three-piece suits. I'm giddy as I listen to his daily anecdote before he starts the cooking, and I relish when his clarified butter isn't clarified. Cause guess what, peeps? This shee was real, LIVE, and if that butter wasn't ready, he went on with the show anyway (after a handsome, deadpan "Oh woe is me" look to the camera). He is the most entertaining man ever to host a TV cooking show, and yes, I'm including my modern-day favorite, Mr. Oliver.

It doesn't get any better than vintage Kerr. If you have the time, and the CC, PLEASE tune in to his show. You won't be sorry. Well, you actually might be sorry you can't entertain and cook like him, but you'll love watching him do it in your stead. I hope you enjoy!

P.S. If you're a LOOOOOOOOONG time reader, you'll remember I did one of my very first posts on the GG back in 2006. Check out the archive if you're so inclined.

Dr. Horrible to Rear Evil Spawn

2010-08-15T21:28:00.003-05:00

I guess this sweet pic should've given us a clue...

I was thrilled to learn that BBB! favorite, NPH, will become the father of twins with his babies' daddy, David Burtka. The couple are a devilishly handsome duo, and they should instill some fine fashion sense unto their new additions. Babies, babies everywhere on the HIMYM set last year, and I'm glad they're now in on the game. I can't wait to see the lil ones toddling down the red carpet in some smashing gear. Congrats to my favorite underage doctor/evil genius/womanizer!

This would've gotten up A LOT earlier, but sometimes when you have your own baby, other things come first. ;)

Kickin' Off Elvis Week

2010-08-11T09:29:00.002-05:00

It's less than a week to the remembrance of the King of Rock n Roll's death, so we might as well start with this. His lil grandbaby sure got those smoldering eyes, ain't she? (Or maybe it's all the eyeliner she's wearing...whatever.)

I Look Just Like Hugo Reyes...

2010-08-10T22:27:00.004-05:00

...Uh oh and you're Libby Smith...

Ah, devine. Weezer's using my favorite LOST castmember on the cover of their album. The album's title? Hurley. Lovin' it already. Yahoo and Amazon have the "cover" out, but it looks pretty generic to me. I hope both factions just slapped Jorge Garcia's mug on a fake CD case, and we'll just have to wait and see the real deal come September 14...I hope.

It's Official

2010-08-09T08:34:00.002-05:00

Robbie is hitched! Congrats...I guess. I looked up his missus on IMDB, and, well, her resume leaves something to be desired. She better not be just a bloodhound out for our Robbie's money. If she is, I feel I have many faithful readers who will avenge his honor if she so chooses to break his heart. I'm still a little bummed we weren't invited to the happy nuptials, but oh well.

Hope Robbie's glommed on to some happy times: new wife, 2 new CD's coming up, and We Sing Robbie for the Wii might make this his best fall yet.