Haines His Way

Archives => Archive 2 => Topic started by: bk on December 01, 2004, 11:59:24 PM

Title: SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: bk on December 01, 2004, 11:59:24 PM
Well, you've read the notes, you now have heard the word "gherkin" enough for the next ten years, and now it is time for you to post until the cows come home to eat their sweet gherkins.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: George on December 02, 2004, 12:10:27 AM
First Post!!  Huzzah!

Heinz ketchup (never catsup) is the prefered ketchup brand..always.  I don't like steak, so steak sauce isn't happening.  I like either teriyaki or sweet and sour sauce over steamed rice when I go to Panda Express.  I go back and fourth as to which I like better, but I won't try them at the same time.  The flavors would be too conflicting...not good.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: George on December 02, 2004, 12:12:30 AM
The salsa at Taco Del Mar is quite good...very chunky.  The salsa at the local El Sarape is not chunky.  Different, but good, also.  Neither has enough onions for me.  I like a lot of onions. :)
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: George on December 02, 2004, 12:14:32 AM
There are more kinds of condiments.  There are always more to list for a Topic of the Day that what one comes up with at first.  But I am going to go to bed now.  Good night all!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Tomovoz on December 02, 2004, 03:03:07 AM
I do not relish condiments.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Sandra on December 02, 2004, 03:04:09 AM
I'm done with my Shakespeare paper!! Woo hoo!! Now all I have to do is memorize my monologue for tomorrow, and I can go to sleep.

That's really great about Echo, Jane. I hope she continues to do well.

Only two more term papers and I can join the real world again.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Ben on December 02, 2004, 04:05:33 AM
My last day at work then off for volunteering for two weeks.

Once we have a picture of the tree I will post it. We didn't do a lot of decorating, just the tree and some other small things.

Miss Sandra, I see you were up at around 3:04am finishing your paper. Hope you're sleeping tight now (sleeping tight - where did that phrase come from?)

I hope the lovely Pogues are enjoying London. I have memories of getting ready for our trip last year at this time.

I use ketchup and mustard and sometimes mayo. For salad dressings I prefer the oil based type, Italian, oil and vinegar, etc. Ant prefers the creamy type, ranch, thousand island, etc.

I may see Day One of the Gypsy of the Year competition on Monday after volunteering and before coming back downtown for the book signing and then going back uptown for a soiree at Joe Allen's (Monday looks like a busy day).

Must return to work now. I'll try to post again later.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: elmore3003 on December 02, 2004, 04:18:36 AM
DRBen, it's good to see you back!  I've missed you in the early morning these past days.

Dear Friend BK, I posted a lousy review of VAN HELSING after I saw it with my beloved goddaughter.  I still get rabid when I think of what a piece of crap it was.  The director-writer dedicated the film to his father, as I recall, and my impression was that he must have hated his father or that he was totally unaware how inept he was as a writer.  I really loved some of the irrationality, like the way the vampire ladies' clothing comes and goes when they change forms, or how Dr Jekyll's trousers adjust from regular to XXXL when Hyde's wearing them.  I need to find a pair.

I'm not a condiment consumer, and I can't even tell you what brand of sweet relish I used in some tuna salad last week.  Sorry!  Hellman's mayo, though.  I still have some.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on December 02, 2004, 04:32:04 AM
I posted a lousy review of VAN HELSING after I saw it with my beloved goddaughter.  I still get rabid when I think of what a piece of crap it was.  

I wish I had paid attention! What a waste of time and money!Considering that I am as forgiving of lousy pop-corn  films as I am un-forgiving of imperfect prose, for me to bad mouth escapist cinema is remarkable. This was one grand disappointment.

Well, off to research gherkins :(

der Brucer

Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Emily on December 02, 2004, 05:13:27 AM
I like (Tereas) Heinz Ketchup mixed with siracha sauce - the ubiquitous asian noodle shop hot sauce.  Mmm...

(http://www.asiafoods.com/asiaf/images/HFSiracha200.jpg)
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Emily on December 02, 2004, 05:14:01 AM
Oh... and gherkins are good too! :D
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Noel on December 02, 2004, 05:23:06 AM
In these frightening times we live in, one should always use condiments.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Noel on December 02, 2004, 05:24:37 AM
There's an old bawdy verse,

Plunge thy gherkin
'Neath my merkin

That I shan't repeat here, this being a family site and all.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on December 02, 2004, 05:42:56 AM
DR MBarnum, are you sure about that David Bailey pic you posted last night?  According to imdb, the David Bailey who died last week was born in 1933.  If that was him, he was pullin a Dorien Gray.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on December 02, 2004, 05:52:57 AM
THE DAILY TERM PAPER

The Sweet Gherkin - is really not a gherkin:

As Britannica (http://www.britannica.com/eb/article?tocId=9036689&query=gherkin&ct=) notes:

Quote
Gherkin - also called  Bur Gherkin, or West Indian Gherkin  (Cucumis anguria), trailing vine, of the gourd family (Cucurbitaceae), grown for its edible fruit. The gherkins sold in pickle mixtures are not C. anguria but rather are small pickled immature cucumbers (Cucumis sativus).

You can buy them without sugar:
(http://www.mtolivepickles.com/images/newlabelns2.jpg)

Those of the non-goyim persuassion can get Kosher:

Sweet Gherkins
Sweet Midget Gherkins
Sweet Baby Gherkins

all from Herr  Heintz (http://www.heinz.com/jsp/kosher.jsp).

If you are size conscious, shop at  ST-Fruit (http://www.st-fruit.cz/en/3.html#1) where you can choose from:

(http://www.st-fruit.cz/en/img/logo.gif)

•  gherkins 5-7 cm sterilised in sweet/sour solution
•  gherkins 7-9 cm sterilised in sweet/sour solution
•  gherkins 9-12 cm sterilised in sweet/sour solution
•  gherkins 12-15 cm sterilised in sweet/sour solution
•  gherkin slices sterilised in sweet/sour solution
•  gherkin cubes sterilised in sweet/sour solution
•  gherkin pieces sterilised in sweet/sour solution

This nifty little factory is in the town of Olomou located in a picturesque location at the foot of the Jeseníky mountains in the region of Šumperk-Vikýøovice.

Me, I'll stick with Heinz for the animals:

(http://pic8.picturetrail.com/VOL242/891350/5613952/75314827.jpg)

The Heinz Hitch (http://www.heinz.com/jsp/hitch.jsp):

Quote
Regal Relic
Our 150-year-old wagon is reminiscent of the 100 original horse-drawn grocery wagons used by the H.J. Heinz Company around the turn of the century. Detailed annually by Amish craftsman, the fiery-red Hitch wagon remains a timeless relic of a bygone era. Manufactured by Studebaker, the delivery wagon weighs 6,800 pounds and is believed to be among the world's largest hitch wagons in use today.

Majestic Maneuvers
The eight Heinz Hitch Percheron horses tip the scales at more than one ton each, generating more than 16,000 pounds of raw horsepower. The magnificent black horses are stabled in Avella, Pennsylvania, just miles from the site of the first Heinz factory in Pittsburgh.
Originally from the Perche region in France, Percherons are the only line of heavy horses not originally bred as draft horses. The horses first appeared more than 1,000 years ago and are a cross between Arabian Stallions and Flemish Plow Mares. They were bred specifically to blend power, agility and speed. These attributes made the Percherons a favored horse during the time when armored knights rode confidently into battle. There is little call for carrying knights into battle today, but the Percherons are enjoying a renewed popularity among horsemen for their gentle nature, power and control. The Heinz Hitch Percherons continue the tradition these great horses played as mainstays of the delivery system in the early days of the H.J. Heinz Company.

Terrific Toppings
Heinz always provides the perfect topping, and the Heinz Hitch Dalmatians are no exception. Riding proudly atop the Heinz Hitch wagon during all performances are "Barbie" (short for Barbecue Sauce) and "H.J." (named for Founder Henry John Heinz). These dutiful Dalmatians keep 24-hour watch over the Hitch team, and even sleep with their Percheron brethren in their stalls. On performance days, these dazzling dogs wear harnesses that match those of the Hitch horses.

(http://www.heinzhitch.com/images/resizeDad_sleigh2.jpg)

der smart-alecky Brucer

Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on December 02, 2004, 05:57:09 AM
Thoughts from Yesterday:

Jose bragged:

Quote
And I cooked dinner again... SPAM and eggs!  Yes, SPAM!  But at least it was SPAM Lite.  -Yes, I had a coupon.

SPAM lite >:(

Dear boy, I hope you never get a coupon for a casket - we'll all be buying lilies ::)

der Brucer
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on December 02, 2004, 06:04:21 AM
For DtM:

An Afghan with which to snuggle:

(http://www.akc.org/images/breeds/afghanhd.jpg)

The AKC (http://www.akc.org/breeds/recbreeds/afghanhd.cfm) Notes:

Quote
Temperament
Aloof and dignified, yet gay.

der Brucer
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on December 02, 2004, 06:30:23 AM
Whatever happened to the Liberal media:

First we get:

Quote
Anti-Syphilis TV Message Finds Few Takers
Many stations reject public service spot aimed at gay men as inappropriate.
By Jia-Rui Chong
Times Staff Writer

December 2, 2004

A public service ad paid for by the Los Angeles County public health agency to raise awareness about the dangers of syphilis has been rejected by local television stations that consider the content inappropriate.

County health officials had signed off on the admittedly adult-oriented spot aimed at reaching gay men who are at greatest risk of getting the disease. But they said they were frustrated by their inability to get the ads broadcast at a time when Los Angeles was struggling with a high number of syphilis cases.

"It's distressing to hear that some important public health messages are not being aired," said Dr. Jonathan Fielding, county public health director. "My question would be, 'Is this content more "adult" than others that are being shown … in the evening hours?' "

"I don't find it objectionable," he said. "Would I show it to a 4- to 5-year-old? No. But do I think it's appropriate for an adult audience? Yes, I do."

(Above extracted from LA Times (http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-syphilis2dec02,0,4220795.story?coll=la-home-headlines))

Then we get:
Quote
CBS, NBC refuse to air UCC television advertisement

United Church of Christ ad highlighting Jesus' extravagant welcome called 'too controversial'

For immediate release
Nov. 30, 2004

CLEVELAND -- The CBS and NBC television networks are refusing to run a 30-second television ad from the United Church of Christ because its all-inclusive welcome has been deemed "too controversial."
The ad, part of the denomination's new, broad identity campaign set to begin airing nationwide on Dec. 1, states that -- like Jesus -- the United Church of Christ seeks to welcome all people, regardless of ability, age, race, economic circumstance or sexual orientation.
According to a written explanation from CBS, the United Church of Christ is being denied network access because its ad implies acceptance of gay and lesbian couples -- among other minority constituencies -- and is, therefore, too "controversial."

"Because this commercial touches on the exclusion of gay couples and other minority groups by other individuals and organizations," reads an explanation from CBS, "and the fact the Executive Branch has recently proposed a Constitutional Amendment to define marriage as a union between a man and a woman, this spot is unacceptable for broadcast on the [CBS and UPN] networks."

Similarly, a rejection by NBC declared the spot "too controversial."

"It's ironic that after a political season awash in commercials based on fear and deception by both parties seen on all the major networks, an ad with a message of welcome and inclusion would be deemed too controversial," says the Rev. John H. Thomas, the UCC's general minister and president. "What's going on here


What's going on, indeed!

(Above extracted from  Press Release (http://www.stillspeaking.com/news/release2.html))

See the ad  HERE (http://www.stillspeaking.com/default.htm)

der frustrated Brucer
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on December 02, 2004, 06:30:24 AM
For DtM:

An Afghan with which to snuggle:

(http://www.akc.org/images/breeds/afghanhd.jpg)

The AKC (http://www.akc.org/breeds/recbreeds/afghanhd.cfm) Notes:der Brucer

Quote
Temperament
Aloof and dignified, yet gay.

That's funny--that's exactly what Sister Mary Franchetta wrote on my 3rd grade school record.

The Afghan would be a wonderful dog to cuddle with, but the groomin involved--Urk!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on December 02, 2004, 06:37:55 AM
That's funny--that's exactly what Sister Mary Franchetta wrote on my 3rd grade school record.


Was she in cahoots with Sister Eta Bruschetta, friend of Sister Julia, Child of God?

Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on December 02, 2004, 06:42:35 AM
Favorite Condiments:

Mustard!  I'm a mustard freak--I'll slather it on anything.  And I'm not a mustard snob--sometimes I like Guldens, sometimes Grey Poupon, sometimes a good hearty Polish mustard and sometimes plain old French's yellow.  All good and good on just about anything.

On steak, if it's a fancy-schmancy restaurant, I'll trust the chef and use whatever sauce they serve.  But elsewhere, there better be a bottle of A-1 Steak sauce on the table.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on December 02, 2004, 06:56:25 AM
TOD:

Favorite condiment - GOO!

When I was at the Naval Academy one of the many chores us plebes had was to make GOO. At a meal that included burgers or franks, one of us had to mix up a dish of GOO. This consisted on mixing equal parts ketchup and mustard with obsence amounts of black pepper - a concoction savored by all.

The Supply Officer in charge of the Midshipmen Mess was one CDR Louis LeForge, (Ma Licious behind his back!) One year he decided to treat the Brigade - on our return from Summer break, each and every table had a large jar of "Ma Licious's GOO! - and right tasty it was.

This is the same Louis LeForge that figured out that the only way to dispose of the excess cream from the Naval Academy Dairy (a hold-over from WWII) was to produce large stainless steal basins of fresh made vanilla ice cream on the breakfast tables - Vanilla Ice Cream topped with fresh strawberries and Frosted Flakes - GOOD!

(No, we did not put GOO on the breakfast sundaes.)

der Brucer
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: MBarnum on December 02, 2004, 06:57:10 AM
DR MBarnum, are you sure about that David Bailey pic you posted last night?  According to imdb, the David Bailey who died last week was born in 1933.  If that was him, he was pullin a Dorien Gray.

LOL! Dan, that picture was of him from the early 1960s...that is the era I remember him from!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: MBarnum on December 02, 2004, 07:01:57 AM
I love mayo! Prefer Best Foods brand.

Mustard and Ketchup/catsup I like too, but have no favorite brands...anything works...

If the steak is good I don't use any sauces. Otherwise A-1 or something similar works for me.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on December 02, 2004, 07:10:03 AM
I love mayo! Prefer Best Foods brand.


Which is the same as elmoore's Hellman's (it's a left/right coast thing).

der Brucer (praying that nobody says "Miracle Whip")
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: TCB on December 02, 2004, 07:13:47 AM
Miracle Whip
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: TCB on December 02, 2004, 07:24:17 AM
I must confess that I am not overly fond of sweet gherkins or sweet pickles.  Give me a good dill or a garlic dill and I am happy for the whole day.

I like the standard mustard, ketchup, relish and / or Russian dressing on sandwiches.  I always use Best Foods / Hellman's mayo for sandwiches and for cooking, with one exception.  My famous (in my mind) shrimp and macaroni salad requires the use of Miracle Whip.  Although many people hate that salad dressing, it is the only thing that works with the other flavors of my salad.  If I don't tell people that it is in the salad, they rave about the salad.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jennifer on December 02, 2004, 07:42:00 AM
DR Emily have you seen the list of shows coming in the Broadway series?
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Dan-in-Toronto on December 02, 2004, 07:51:47 AM
Hold the mayo is my motto. Minimal ketchup on French fries, and minimal mustard on a salami or corned beef sandwich. That's it, other than pickles: homemade kosher-style dills, and a good Indian lime pickle.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Matt H. on December 02, 2004, 08:08:13 AM
I've seen that Woody Allen documentary (if it's the one that premiered on TCM a year or two ago). Mia Farrow forbid the use of her likeness in any of the clips, so that's why you don't see her in the documentary. You're right; it wasn't greatly insightful (the book WOODY ALLEN ON WOODY ALLEN by Stig Bjorkman is quite wonderful and far superior). Still, I love so many of Woody's movies that ANYTHING about them is better than nothing. There's certainly NO information of the DVDs. They're all bare bones affairs.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Matt H. on December 02, 2004, 08:09:40 AM
Like ketchup on just about anything (but don't have to have it); like mayo on suitable foods, but I have lots of friends who dip their fries in mayo, and I just don't see it.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 08:20:51 AM
Ahhhhhhh...I am a dill slices man myself....don't like any kind of WHOLE pickle.  It is unseemly.

Brooks Ketchup...mmmmmmmmm
French's Mustard...mmmmmmmmmmmm
Hellman's Mayo....mmmmmmmmmmm

No steak sauce or salad dressing, thank you.  I prefer to eat my salad undressed.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 08:21:18 AM
Mayo and fries - I don't get that either DRMATTH....can hardly bear to watch it.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: TCB on December 02, 2004, 08:26:01 AM
Ahhhhhhh...I am a dill slices man myself....don't like any kind of WHOLE pickle.  It is unseemly.



Maybe you just have the wrong technique, JRand!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on December 02, 2004, 08:26:37 AM
I prefer to eat my salad undressed.

Paging DR TCB.  Setup line for DR TCB.  Paging DR TCB, please...
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Ben on December 02, 2004, 08:33:51 AM
JRand (and Matt H.) said

"Mayo and fries - I don't get that either DRMATTH....can hardly bear to watch it."

Well, don't go to Belgium, even if it's Tuesday.  ;)

It happens all over Europe but especially Belgium. It's not as bad as it seems, although I don't do it as a rule, I have had Mayo on fries and it's OK.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 08:37:01 AM
Well, okay.....

Wish they had spent as much time on the scripts for the TCF Television version of HOW TO MARRY A MILLIONAIRE that they spent on hair, makeup, and costuming.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 08:41:20 AM
HOW TO MARRY A MILLIONAIRE - movie style  :o
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 08:42:06 AM
HOW TO MARRY A MILLIONAIRE - tv Style  :-\
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 08:42:52 AM
Fashions by Mr Mort

"Say Hello to Mr Mort!"
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Matt H. on December 02, 2004, 08:48:41 AM
Barbara Eden looks so much older there than she did years later on I DREAM OF JEANNIE.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: MBarnum on December 02, 2004, 08:49:23 AM
LOL! Something tells me that JRand54 got a package in the mail! LOL!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Matt H. on December 02, 2004, 08:50:32 AM
The reviews for VAN HELSING were among the worst of any movie this year. It wouldn't surprise me to see it sweep the Razzies this year. A friend bought the DVD, and I mentioned to him I might want to borrow it after NUNCRACKERS closes just to see a true disaster.

I must wait until after the show closes since I don't want to risk anything making me sick.   :D
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 08:50:58 AM
Anyone interested in vintage fashions, might want to visit this website to see a few couture garments that have survived the ravages of time.

http://www.kittygirlvintage.com/ (http://www.kittygirlvintage.com/)


Lovely clothes....that are not made OR worn anymore.  :'(
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 08:51:26 AM
Yes I did, MB!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: S. Woody White on December 02, 2004, 08:56:25 AM
I like (Tereas) Heinz Ketchup mixed with siracha sauce - the ubiquitous asian noodle shop hot sauce.  Mmm...

(http://www.asiafoods.com/asiaf/images/HFSiracha200.jpg)
Siracha is also great mixed with sweet-and-sour sauce.  Sweet, sour, spicy...add a dash of soy sauce and you've got salty, too!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: William F. Orr on December 02, 2004, 09:06:19 AM
DerBrucer:

As an addendum to your United Church of Christ story, let me add:
Quote
Larry Buhl, PlanetOut Network
Wednesday, December 1, 2004 / 05:12 PM

...The UCC ad has been accepted and will air on other networks, including ABC Family, AMC, BET, Discovery, Fox, Hallmark, History, Nick@Nite, TBS, TNT, Travel and TV Land.

The ad can be viewed online at www.stillspeaking.com.


Note:  ABC Family is not offended.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: MBarnum on December 02, 2004, 09:08:22 AM
Neat website JRand54! I liked this one!

(http://www.kittygirlvintage.com/images/50s_hour_halter.JPG)
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: MBarnum on December 02, 2004, 09:10:52 AM
And this one is pretty darn sweet1

(http://www.kittygirlvintage.com/images/50s_Lilli_cash_suit.JPG)
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: William F. Orr on December 02, 2004, 09:11:34 AM
And for those of you who prefer shark-fighting, London musical-theatre star John Barrowman with more than minimalist costume design, here he is running for President of the United States.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: S. Woody White on December 02, 2004, 09:21:24 AM
One condiment that der Brucer has tried recently is ponzu sauce.  It's a Japanese mixture of citrus juice, vinegar, and seasonings.  We were given a small bowl with some of our sushi on a recent outing, and he [move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]loved[/move] the stuff.

Another necessary Japanese condiment is wasabi, of course.  For a really tangy salad dressing, try making a vinaigrette with a little of the stuff.  Yummilicious!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: S. Woody White on December 02, 2004, 09:23:59 AM
[size=20]TOBASCO!!![/size]
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: bk on December 02, 2004, 09:24:32 AM
I don't like immature cucumbers.  And yet I love sweet gherkins.  And therein lies the conundrum of the gherkin and the cucumber, which is also the title of a John Milius film that never got maid, which was to re-pair Sean Connery (as the Gherkin) and Michael Caine (as the immature but likeable Cucumber).  

I also enjoy the story of The Randy Vicar and the Immature Cucumber.

Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: JoseSPiano on December 02, 2004, 09:25:22 AM
Good Morning!  Good Afternoon!

Well, I have to make this quick since I allowed myself an extra hour or two of sleep this morning.  I need to get ready to head up to DC for tonight's rehearsal.  I think I'm just gonna go straight to the theatre, spend some quality time with the copier, then go through the strings banks on the new keyboard they bought.  Could be fun.  Should be fun.  Rehearsal starts at 7:00, and is scheduled to go until 11:00.  We shall see...

-Then I'll just head back here to Richmond after tomorrow night's rehearsal.  Stay here Saturday and Sunday day.  Head back to Fairfax Sunday night.  Then train up and back to NYC on Monday.

Whew!  -I just had to post my itinerary somewhere to remind me.  ;)

As for condiments...

Ketchup - Heinz
Mustard - I lean more toward dijon style, but good ole French's Yellow is a stand-by - or Gulden's Spicy Brown.  Ingelhoffer (sp?) makes a bunch of different varieties, and if I really want a kick I get their horseradish mustard.  Yeow!
Mayo - I come and go with mayo, but when I go I go with Duke's - very much THE southern mayo.  It's sweetened with apple cider vinegar and not sugar, so, technically, it's sugar-free.  Plus, it tastes great.  -And I do like it with my french fries.  There are a couple of "frites" places I've been too, and I always like trying the various flavored mayos.
Hot Sauces - Texas Pete, Tabasco, Chohula, Sriracah "Rooster Sauce".... It's all good.  And hot!

OK... I'll most likely be errant and truant until I get back from rehearsal tonight.  Unless I can sang a free computer at the theatre...

Keep those home fries burning!  -And feel free to put mayo on them... Well.. Maybe not on home fries... Hmm..

Laters...
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: MBarnum on December 02, 2004, 09:26:03 AM
JRand54, I often come across clothes like those at estate sales...it is lots of fun to walk into some old house and find closets full of clothes from the 50s and 60s still in fantastic condition...and  many times for very cheap!

I once bought several articles of men's and women's clothing from the 1950s for $1 each...and then made my niece Katie dress up in each one for a little fashion show! I will have to post pictures of that someday!

I sold some of the clothes on Ebay...the men's shirts sold like hotcakes (and for plenty of money, too)...but couldn't give away some of the women's clothes.

Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: bk on December 02, 2004, 09:26:07 AM
Why is my memory that Van Helsing did okay at the box-office.  It shouldn't have, but I just remember that it did.  

This morning I awoke to my favorite kind of e-mail - a very sweet woman e-mailed me because she'd just discovered the Kritzer books and bought a set because sixteen years ago she'd named her son Benjamin.  Her last name was, of course, Kritzer.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: S. Woody White on December 02, 2004, 09:35:01 AM
Why is my memory that Van Helsing did okay at the box-office.  It shouldn't have, but I just remember that it did.  
It did fairly well on it's first weekend (there being nothing else out those two days) and tanked quickly after that.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: S. Woody White on December 02, 2004, 09:36:09 AM
A pizza without red pepper flakes is...

...well, it's someone else's pizza.   :P
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: William F. Orr on December 02, 2004, 09:40:33 AM
To hear John Barrowman's BBC interview, click here. (http://johnbarrowman.net/sounds/bbc2greeenroomjuly162004.mp3)

To listen to his American Theatre Wing interview, here click (http://www.americantheatrewing.org:8080/ramgen/downstage/Episode21.rm).
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: William F. Orr on December 02, 2004, 09:42:01 AM
I don't like immature cucumbers.  And yet I love sweet gherkins.  And therein lies the conundrum of the gherkin and the cucumber, which is also the title of a John Milius film that never got maid, which was to re-pair Sean Connery (as the Gherkin) and Michael Caine (as the immature but likeable Cucumber).  

I also enjoy the story of The Randy Vicar and the Immature Cucumber.

The Randy Vicar and the Sweet Gherkin has more vinegar in it.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 09:48:40 AM
Yes DRMB we must have fashion show pictures.

What made the men's shirts so special, I wonder?
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Ben on December 02, 2004, 09:55:22 AM
Mr. Orr, you are a mere 16 posts away from a certain ascension. It actually takes 501 to get there. Post away, my pretty!

William F. Orr Posts: 485
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: JMK on December 02, 2004, 09:57:32 AM
Contrary to popular opinion alert:

Well maybe it's because I got the DVD for free, or maybe because my expectations were so low due to the negative buzz surrounding it, but I actually rather enjoyed Van Helsing.  I thought the production design was stupendous, and the CGI stuff was great.  The wolfman in this one is seriously scarier than in the latest Harry Potter, IMHO.  I also liked the score, which, yes, did "borrow" heavily from Orff, but also added a nice gypsy guitar motif from time to time that was refreshing.

Condiment:  Nalley's Hot Dog Relish.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: JMK on December 02, 2004, 10:02:27 AM
Today's eBay illogic segment:

I'm selling a bunch of new, never opened DVDs on eBay and most of them close today.  The Star Wars and Looney Tunes sets slowly built the number of "watchers" throughout the auctions until they both got to about $30.00.  Then the watchers peeled off one by one.  Both sets shot up about $10.00 each this morning, and now suddenly they are adding watchers by the handful for the last few hours of the auctions.  I'm wondering if these are other sellers of the same items seeing what they go for.

Does anyone have need/want of the original deluxe video release of That's Entertainment III, in the huge box, with CD, posters, and two videos?  Let me know--it can be yours, cheap!!

And I also have a huge bag of old kids' videos I'll unload cheap--tons of Disney stuff, old Jonny Quest, Scooby Do, etc.  Yours for a mere pittance.  :)
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: JMK on December 02, 2004, 10:09:39 AM
Yesterday's LOL eBay segment:

I got an "ask the seller a question" question from a new eBayer (0 feedback, just registered) asking me if my new, unopened "Seven Brides for Seven Brothers" DVD was an original or a copy and if it had all the original packaging.  I get so frustrated with these people, honestly.  So I replied with trenchant (hopefully) wit, telling them that of course I only sold illegal bootlegs and was lying about everything in the description, that it had no original packaging and came in a brown bag, and that my only joy in life was deceiving people on eBay.  Well, it made me laugh, anyway.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: bk on December 02, 2004, 10:11:08 AM
I, too, got Van Helsing for free (along with the Chronicles of Riddick), but that didn't help it for me.  I think half the production design was done in a computer with the actors in blue screen.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: JMK on December 02, 2004, 10:12:09 AM
The commentary said a lot of the stuff was matte paintings.  Sommers says who the artist is several times, but I can't recall right now.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jay on December 02, 2004, 10:16:06 AM
What?  No mention yet of horseradish?

Without it, gefilte fish wouldn't be, well, gefilte fish.

Prime rib without creamy horseradish?  Unthinkable!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Panni on December 02, 2004, 10:22:36 AM
Mustard, horseradish (sometimes), kosher dills.  Too much to do. Bye.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: MBarnum on December 02, 2004, 10:28:38 AM
JRand54, the men's shirts really were nothing spectacular if I recall correctly...but went for about $45.00!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Ann on December 02, 2004, 10:42:17 AM
Good morning all

Condiments - Ketchup is a classic, of course.  Mayo over Miracle Whip, always.  Of course, TCB, I'd be willing to have a go at that shrimp and maraconi salad :)  I actually also make a great shrimp and macaroni salad, but I use mayo.  Ranch dressing is my favorite dip, hands down.  Mustard goes on hot dogs, along with ketchup.  Relish goes in tuna salad, but not on hot dogs.  
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Ann on December 02, 2004, 10:45:36 AM
Van Helsing - I saw it...the computer geek in me loved the CGI effects.  They were pretty spectacular.  The movie itself...well, I had fun laughing at it, that's for sure.  
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jed on December 02, 2004, 10:56:13 AM
Hello all.  While I'm here, may as wel post on the topic d'jour...

On ketchup, I'm none too picky, but usually go with Heinz.  
I'm a big mustard fan, particularly of the horseradish, sweet hot, and dark pub varieties, though generic yellow (and numerous others) will do just fine.
For mayo, I go for Best Foods (Helleman's).  Have had mayo on fries now and then... not too bad, but I prefer thousand island, ranch, tartar sauce, or ketchup.
Steak sauce?  Goodness no!  A good, virtuous steak wouldn't dare be seen with such unseemly company.  Some horseradish, however, can be a lovely addition.
As for pickles, I love a crunchy kosher dill.  I use sweets in macaroni salad, and will go either dill or sweet with tuna.  Can't remember what kind it was, but the worst pickle I've ever tasted was at the Stage Deli in NYC.  Luckily, the rest of the meal was much better.
On the rare occasion that I'll eat a hot dog, I want onions, mustard, and relish.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: William F. Orr on December 02, 2004, 11:06:34 AM
It's hard to do Buddy Hackett's voice--especially in text--but I'll try.

Buddy Hackett:  My mother didn't make horse radish.  
She made [size=10]HORSE RADISH!!!!!![/size][/glow]
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 11:23:59 AM
DRJMK - have you shared your NPR news here at HHW?  I noticed you mentioned it on the board at the FF Tribute!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jay on December 02, 2004, 11:28:54 AM
Jed?  Jed?  Is that really you?
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: JMK on December 02, 2004, 11:38:47 AM
Well I'm still somewhat sworn to secrecy, as it's still in production, and I think I *did* mention months ago that I had been contacted.  But an NPR documentary in which Frances figures tangentially, and which relies quite a bit on research I've developed over the past several years, is currently slated for an April 2005 broadcast.  As it becomes finalized, I'll certainly be shilling it non-stop, LOL.  It's being produced by a very well known and widely respected guy who just happens to have won several Peabody and Murrow awards.  I'm quite excited to have been able to provide them with a lot of source material.  And I of course urge everyone who probably couldn't care less :) to read my web article at:

http://hometown.aol.com/jmkauffman/sheddinglight.html

And post a comment to either the forum or the guestbook while you're at it (links at the bottom of the article).  I get personal emails by the drove from this thing (from places as far away as Siberia and Idaho, LOL), but nobody ever posts to either of the fora (and how about you, Fauna--ooh, a Frank Zappa reference, kind of) I have set up for discussion.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 11:42:29 AM
Jed is here!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 11:43:45 AM
Well...I wouldn't say NO ONE - DRJMK!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: JMK on December 02, 2004, 11:53:30 AM
Youre right, JR, and I think you actually posted twice, LOL.

Here's a good laugh for everyone:

http://www.scalzi.com/whatever/003030.html

JR, don't take one of the items too seriously.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 12:01:56 PM
LOL JMK - I think UPN has scheduled the Ayn Rand Christmas Special!  Or maybe it was syndicated.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on December 02, 2004, 12:03:27 PM
Wow!  Everyone here has something exciting going on!  What a happenin' crowd.  You're all very inspiring.

Before I forget, a couple of Break a Legs to DRs Matt and JRand for their opening nights of Nuncrackers and MBCWCB!  And to DR TCB to continue breaking legs on his second smash weekend as Scrooge!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: MBarnum on December 02, 2004, 12:16:17 PM
Everyone is going to have broken legs!

Good to see you around these here parts DR Jed!!!

It is mighty cold in our office...I don't think the heat is working...and it is 35 degrees out today! (I have my old man sweater on, but my fingers are numb)
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 12:21:34 PM
DR JAY did you get to watch anymore of your video?
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Ginny on December 02, 2004, 12:23:32 PM
Greetings from Cleveland!  I'm here on Ohio's North Coast for 2 days of meetings at the Foundation Center.  Staying out in the 'burbs and I'm on my way out for an evening of serious shopping (no Nordstrom's near where I live...).  When I get home on Saturday, I'll get serious about decorating for Christmas and post some pictures.  BTW, Tuesday's balloon glow was postponed (we had wind like NYC, DRElmore), so the caramel corn bags are stored in an air-tight container (hope they stay fresh).

Belated good wishes to Jane and her Echo - hope the improvement is continuing.

Also, belated "break a leg" wishes to all involved in theatrical productions.  DRMatth, is it true that a bad dress rehearsal means you'll have a good opening night?

RE Condiments - my mother's homemade bread and butter pickles are an absolute necessity on burgers and meat loaf sandwiches.  She's been making the same recipe for 45 years.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Dan (the Man) on December 02, 2004, 12:47:07 PM
My somewhat exciting news is that I've won a copy of The Dangerous Christmas Of Red Riding Hood for just $9.99 on eBay.  
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: S. Woody White on December 02, 2004, 12:48:51 PM
Here's a good laugh for everyone:

http://www.scalzi.com/whatever/003030.html
I hope you realize, DR JMK, that it is nearly impossible to read that piece with a straight face, as I just attempted to do while der Brucer was chortleing away.

 ;D
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: TCB on December 02, 2004, 12:49:04 PM
Youre right, JR, and I think you actually posted twice, LOL.

Here's a good laugh for everyone:

JR, don't take one of the items too seriously.

I think I might have enjoyed that Village People special!

Break a leg MattH and Jrand!
[/size][/font]


Hers is a cute little (re: silly) website.  Click on the red top when it finishes loading.
http://te-be.ru/pics/flash/ilike.swf



Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: bk on December 02, 2004, 12:50:05 PM
Just picked up some interesting DVDs before coming back to the home environment from my morning travels: The Terminal, The Emmanuelle Collection (the first three movies - guilty pleasures all), and best of all Ride the High Surf, starring Mr. Fabian, Miss Shelley Fabares, Mr. Tab Hunter, and Miss Barbara Eden.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: TCB on December 02, 2004, 12:52:49 PM
Just picked up some interesting DVDs before coming back to the home environment from my morning travels: The Terminal, The Emmanuelle Collection (the first three movies - guilty pleasures all), and best of all Ride the High Surf, starring Mr. Fabian, Miss Shelley Fabares, Mr. Tab Hunter, and Miss Barbara Eden.

Isn't it RIDE THE WILD SURF?
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: TCB on December 02, 2004, 12:55:11 PM

JED!

Come home Jed!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Matt H. on December 02, 2004, 12:57:48 PM
Why is my memory that Van Helsing did okay at the box-office.  It shouldn't have, but I just remember that it did.  


It grossed a bit over $100 million domestically, but it needed to gross $300 million to break even. (I think the film came in for around $175 million.) Universal had hopes of this being a franchise for them, but the film underperformed even in Europe and Asia who usually like this sort of thing. TROY, released around the same time, underperformed here in America, but it was HUGE in the rest of the world.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: S. Woody White on December 02, 2004, 12:58:15 PM
P.S. to my last post: I should add that a while back der Brucer bought me a copy of Nugent's cookbook, Kill It and Grill It.  Pigeon jerky is not one of the recipes.   ::)
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 12:58:49 PM
Yes it IS WILD Surf......is this an official release?????
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Matt H. on December 02, 2004, 01:01:50 PM
Well, in a little less than four hours, the first public performance of NUNCRACKERS will commence. Thanks to all for the good wishes. We need them!

And for those who remember the publicity pic I posted a few days ago, those elf ears I was wearing must have sent some nasty vibes to fellow cast members. The two ladies under me both suffered mishaps last night. The one on the right had virtually no voice as of last night, and the one on the loeft fell off a platform in the dark last night and landed on her knees. She's a stocky woman and she had to have been a good deal more hurt than she said she was. (The show did come to a standstill for ten minutes for her to regain her breath.)
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: S. Woody White on December 02, 2004, 01:06:33 PM
Vibes and Broken Legs!

[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%][size=20]~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~[/size][/move]
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jennifer on December 02, 2004, 01:06:51 PM
Hi DR Jed!

I don't know if mayo on fries is uncommon in Canada.  But I'd never heard of the practice until I was in Califonia about 10 years ago.  

Btw, I love ketchup!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jennifer on December 02, 2004, 01:11:27 PM
Yes break a leg to DRs Jrand, MattH, and TCB!!!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jennifer on December 02, 2004, 01:14:33 PM
I think I am now a krispy kreme expert ... well for the kinds they serve here.

At Halloween I got a dozen free single donuts.  And I've been about 4 times.

So far I've tried: coffee cream, blueberry cake glaze, regular lemon filled, regular raspberry filled, and caramel with caramel on top.

Oops I guess that's more than 4. :)

Of those I'd say the blueberry is the sweetest and most unlike most krispy kremes.  Very thick icing.

The others were all very good.

Oh and btw, today I got a free donut when I walked in (to go with my other free raspberry one).

Should I feel bad? :)
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Matt H. on December 02, 2004, 01:26:52 PM
No one who likes a Krispy Kreme doughnut should EVER feel bad. They were invented to make people feel good!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 01:34:49 PM
DRMATTH  - I am astounded that your director and stage manager DID NOT have such areas "danger lit."  

I always have someone backstage at stairs and stage edges during blackouts - and when I am doing a show, I leave the stage as quickly as possible reach the steps and turn to help whoever is behind me.  Of course, that is if I don't have YOUR quick changes.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Matthew on December 02, 2004, 02:00:24 PM
The only thing I can think of when I hear the word "Gherkin" is the "Sex and the City" episode when Samantha was dating someone whom she thought was absolutely perfect, except for his... umm.. manhood.. which she referred to in a conversation with the "girls" as being "gherkin".
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Panni on December 02, 2004, 02:15:56 PM
Merde to TCB and JRand!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jay on December 02, 2004, 02:19:00 PM
DR JAY did you get to watch anymore of your video?

Yes, I watched the whole thing.  Did I not make comment on it here?  I found the This is Your Life segment downright scary!  And loved Tennessee Ernie Ford's suggestion to floor the pedal whilst driving.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: TCB on December 02, 2004, 02:50:24 PM
Last night I journeyed north to the Emerald City of Seattle to see Cathy Rigby in her final tour of PETER PAN.  I have seen Cathy do this show several times, and I swear she gets better and more energetic the older she gets.  Howard McGillin was also very good as Hook, although he is probably the only Hook (including myself) I have ever seen, that only wore his Captain's hat for his first appearance on stage.  Interesting choice, but as this was the first performance in Seattle, it might have been a costume glitch to go with a few of the tech glitches (nothing major) that happened.

After the show, Cathy was charming, but naturally a bit tired.  I didn't get a chance to talk much to Howard as he was leaving just as I got backstage.  I did get to meet Cathy's son, Ryan, one of three of her kids currently in the show.  i will try to post a photo of Cathy when I get around to downloading it.

Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: TCB on December 02, 2004, 02:51:56 PM
Thank you all, for your good wishes tonight.
[/b][/color]
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: elmore3003 on December 02, 2004, 02:51:58 PM
Why is my memory that Van Helsing did okay at the box-office.  It shouldn't have, but I just remember that it did.  

My 14 year-old goddaughter said it was awesome, and I think a lot of smart kids in that age bracket and a lot of morons who were older (like me) shelled out their hard-earned money to be robbed by a fraud calling himself a writer and director.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on December 02, 2004, 02:52:41 PM
...closets full of clothes from the 50s and 60s still in fantastic condition...

Ahem...some us us still wear our clothes from the 50s and 60s!

der Brucer (still longing for the return of leisure suits)
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on December 02, 2004, 02:57:24 PM
...garments that have survived the ravages of time.


And some wearers have survived the same ravages:

(http://pic8.picturetrail.com/VOL242/891350/2995020/43318429.jpg)
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: DERBRUCER on December 02, 2004, 03:05:12 PM
She's been making the same recipe for 45 years.

Aren't they done yet?
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Dan-in-Toronto on December 02, 2004, 03:09:46 PM
What a night for the theatre! Break-a-legs to DRs Matt and JRand and TCB.

Looking forward to the reviews.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 03:10:12 PM
LOL DRderBRUCER.

Oh....DRJAY - I am sorry, if you commented, I don't recall, and I have been watching and waiting.  Yes, THIS IS YOUR LIFE is a bit scary.....JMK you know which episode I sent him.....and yes Tennessee Ernie Ford makes you want to run out and buy a 1957 Ford, does he not?

Thanks for the good wishes, DRPANNI.  Here we go!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: MBarnum on December 02, 2004, 03:28:20 PM
JRand54, did Holly go to the doctor today?
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: bk on December 02, 2004, 03:31:56 PM
Yes, Ride the Wild Surf is a real release, via Columbia.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Michael on December 02, 2004, 03:43:38 PM
DR Matt:

Break a nuncracker!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Michael on December 02, 2004, 03:45:28 PM
As for condoments. Never been a real ketchup lover. Been fond of French's yellow mustard. As for eating mayo with french fries I like it. I learned that combo from many of my French Canadian amis.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Panni on December 02, 2004, 04:02:01 PM
I just received in the mail from Fox the shooting scripts of Kinsey, I (heart) Huckabees, and Sideways. These are the book/scripts sold in bookstores. Fully illustrated, with all sorts of fun extras. The Kinsey volume, for example, comes in at 350 pages and, according to the back cover, retails for $20. The awards season has officially begun.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Danise on December 02, 2004, 04:30:59 PM
Evening all.  I fear I shall be posting and leaving.  I am so very tired tonight.  

I woke up yesterday to no hot water.  We had a power problem on Monday.  My Mom had turned all of the breakers on and off so I thought the water heater needed to be reset.  I know there is a button inside it to do that.

When I got home from work, I took the panels off and pushed the button.  I didn’t hear any noise but as I wasn’t sure what to expect, I thought I had taken care of the problem.  I knew it would take several hours for the water to warm up.

At three A.M.  That’s 3 A.M.  In the morning.  In the early morning.  As in still dark outside.  I got up and happened to check the hot water.  Hot it was not.  It was, in fact, still quite icy.  So I had to put my contacts in, get my flash light and my screwdriver and go outside to the water heater, take the panel off once again and pushed the button.  Nothing.

I then went to the breaker box and turned the water heater breaker on and off.  Nothing.  Then I PUSHED the water heater breaker a bit hard.  Instantly, the little dial/wheel began to spin like crazy.  A trip back to the water heater confirmed there was indeed life in the old thing as it was humming away.   I take it that it was humming because it didn’t know the words.  No groaning!

By then it was 4:30 A.M.  and I could not go back to sleep.  Now I feel like I’m going to fall over.  

Mom hasn’t been feeling very well so I haven’t been sleeping very well as it is because I keep listening for her to call me.  Not that she has but I feared that she might need me.

The unshod of all of the above is that Mom feels much better tonight and we have hot water.  I feel like heck and am going to bed as soon as this is posted.

I had the comment at work that I am handy to have around and can do more then some men (current company excluded).  I told them I know that and I really should marry myself.  That or I’m going to make some man a good husband someday.  

I wonder how that would go over?  Forget same sex marriage as a minority.  How about same self marriage?   I think I am more tired than I know.  :)

DR George, thank you for brightening my day with the lovely Christmas card.  Yours was the first I have received this season.

More vibes to the care givers of Dear Dog Echo and to Dear Dog Echo.  Christian or Jew this is the season of Miracles.  May there be one or two (we must not forget Dear Cat Bogie) for you.

I haven’t had time to try Dear Uncle Der Brucer’s instructions on putting a picture in the middle of a post but as soon as I can I will.

Break a leg vibes to those who need them!  I wish I could see all of your shows.  

I have to tell you about the wonderful book I bought at the bookfair at work today.  It’s called Dr. Ernest Drake’s DRAGONOLOGY:  The First Complete Book of Dragons.  I have to say I LOVE it.  The illustrations alone are worth the price.  

I like Mayo and Miracle Whip.  It reminds me of the first time I was sent to do the shopping.  Mom said to get some mayonnaise.  I remember looking at the jars and spotting the Miracle Whip.  After carefully reading the jars, I decided to get the Mayo because Miracle Whip said it was salad dressing and she had said get mayonnaise.   When I got home, of course, Mom asked me why I bought what I did.  She wanted the Miracle Whip!

Heinz is the only ketchup for me as well.  Mustard has it’s place—like on corn dogs but that’s it.  If the steak needs sauce, it isn’t a good steak in my book.

Van Helsing was ok.  Not great but I would watch it again sometime down the road.  I still can’t figure out how the gal got killed at the end.  Did he crush her?  We ran that part on slow mo several times but it just didn’t make sense.

I know I am missing out on some things but you will have to forgive me.  Have a wonderful evening.




Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: George on December 02, 2004, 04:50:05 PM
I just got a  spam e-mail for "Cia|is S0ft Tabs, as easy and ch|eap as never before! doreen dreamy" that has a picture of a buxom woman in a skimpy nurse's outfit holding (actually it's just superimposed over her hand...the model is not really "holding" anything) a package of Cialis Soft Tabs.  The only reason I mention this is because the e-mail address that it was supposedly sent from (it is spam, after all) is "'Esther Rojas' <Haines @ kalnet.net>".  I have no intention of trying to see if that e-mail address really works.  I just thought that it was quite rude that this spam e-mailer has stolen the name of the close and personal friend of our illustrious BK!!  The other thing is that it's not sent to just me.  Actually, the only e-mail address showing is gpconst @ comcast.net.  I'm not going to try that one either.  I'm reporting it as spam and deleting it.

Just had to share. ::)

PS.  Glad you liked the card, Danise! ;D
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Ginny on December 02, 2004, 05:29:25 PM
Aren't they done yet?

LOL, DRderBrucer!!!  Wish I had a snappy comeback...
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: bk on December 02, 2004, 05:45:19 PM
Shortly I will be on my way to the Bank of Bur to see a musicale featuring the daughter of an old school chum of mine.  Don't forget to keep the home fries burning - delight me, astonish me.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Panni on December 02, 2004, 06:07:42 PM
Add to the list of "unique" baby names that seem to be the norm these days: "Dustin Hoffman...welcomed the arrival of his first grandson, Augustus Culligan..."
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: JMK on December 02, 2004, 06:20:21 PM
Heeeeyyyyyyy, Culligan Hoffman......

Nope, doesn't have the same ring to it.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jane on December 02, 2004, 06:22:35 PM
Barbara Eden looks so much older there than she did years later on I DREAM OF JEANNIE.

It’s the hair.  My mother use to make me wear my hair similar to that when I was in Jr. High.  I hated it for obvious reasons.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jane on December 02, 2004, 06:51:34 PM
Jose you should get the Eggs Edwina along with her address to visit or send her get well cards.

MBarnum thand for the David Bailey pic-good looking guy who looks familiar.  Such a shame.

JMF I so glad to see someone else enjoyed Van Helsing.  I was disappointed and thought it could have been better but I still enjoyed it.  

HI JED!!!

Ginny thank you and what kind of homemade bread is that?

TCB I just sent the website on to a friend.

JRand how is Holly?  And I’m looking forward to details on the show, yours too Matt H.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jane on December 02, 2004, 06:56:38 PM
MBarnum & Jose my dainty girl says thank you.

Danise I enjoyed your long post.  Great news your mother is feeling better and your hot water has returned.  This morning our electricity went out.  Without electricity we can’t pump in water and the heater doesn’t work.  The good news is the power was only out for 30 minutes.
Thank you for the good wishes for Echo and Bogie.


Thank you Panni & Sandra.  The good news continues.  

Today Echo is moving like her old self, well her old self before taking a turn for the worst.  She even went up and down stairs today and ran.  We have definitely been given a reprieve.  We don’t know how long it will last but will appreciate every moment of it.  Thank G_d for prednisone. :D  Oh, and she is eating cupfuls of kibble , out of my hand, instead of one at a time.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jane on December 02, 2004, 06:58:23 PM

Best Foods or Hellman’s mayo, sometimes mixed with Heinz ketchup and seasoning.  
For an alternate healthy choice I spread soft avocado on sandwiches.

Pickles are only on the side and must be new kosher ones.  
Never, ever do I want a sweet gherkin.


Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Sandra on December 02, 2004, 07:30:12 PM
Amusing story number one:

I didn't have time last night to memorize my monologue, so I just wrote it out so I could read it (the teacher said we could do that). So I had the paper in front of me and I started off OK. But then I looked up to motion to one of my props, and I lost my place. I didn't want to stop talking while I found my place, so I just kept talking even though I didn't know what to say next. I just forged ahead (Oh, a Smudge reference). I never did find my place again. I mangled every single line in the whole thing. The way Shakespeare wrote it was weird enough, but I really screwed it up.

The monologue is this guy reenacting the scene of when he left home to go seek his fortune. He uses these props to represent his family members. The ones for his parents are his shoes, so about halfway through, you have to take off your shoes and talk to them.

So I was just standing there in my socks talking to my shoes. I messed up every single line. It ended up sounding like something from the last act of Noises Off.  Everybody laughed and after class one of my classmates said it was great, so I must have done something right.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jane on December 02, 2004, 07:34:00 PM
Sandra-LOL.  When do you get your grade on that?  A suggestion if you are ever in that situation again, begin a new sheet of paper each time you have to break away.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Sandra on December 02, 2004, 07:39:54 PM
Amusing story number two:

The prop for the maid was a hat. The only hat I had readily available was my Swedish Chef hat.

So since I had my Swedish Chef hat with me, I decided to take it on up to The Fifth Floor to get a picture. So I got up there and was trying to hold the hat with one hand and take a picture with the other. I must have looked pretty pathetic, because this guy walked up and said, "Need some help?" And I said, "Yes, please."

So he held up the hat and I took the picture. Then I said, "Thank you" and he said, "You're welcome" and went on his way. He didn't ask, and I didn't even try to explain (I'm not sure I could explain if I wanted to).

That's The Fifth Floor for you.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Emily on December 02, 2004, 07:43:03 PM
Amusing story number two:

The prop for the maid was a hat. The only hat I had readily available was my Swedish Chef hat.

So since I had my Swedish Chef hat with me, I decided to take it on up to The Fifth Floor to get a picture. So I got up there and was trying to hold the hat with one hand and take a picture with the other. I must have looked pretty pathetic, because this guy walked up and said, "Need some help?" And I said, "Yes, please."

So he held up the hat and I took the picture. Then I said, "Thank you" and he said, "You're welcome" and went on his way. He didn't ask, and I didn't even try to explain (I'm not sure I could explain if I wanted to).

That's The Fifth Floor for you.

In exam period people do weird things... maybe the guy thought that taking pictures of a swedish hat was a de-stressifying technique :)
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jane on December 02, 2004, 07:51:25 PM
Sandra a perfect 5th floor story.  Two laughs in one night.  I can say goodnight now with a big smile on my face.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Panni on December 02, 2004, 07:58:08 PM
Good to "see" you smiling, Jane! Good vibes from Abie to Echo!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Panni on December 02, 2004, 08:00:17 PM
just read a full page add in Variety from the Peter Sellers Appreciation Society. They say that the upcoming HBO movie, THE LIFE AND DEATH OF PETER SELLERS, is unfair to their hero.
I'm curious to see it. Geoffrey Rush looks amazingly like Sellers in the photos I've seen.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Michael on December 02, 2004, 08:00:26 PM
Well I was already to go to bed, but I just got a creative spurt and so it is back to final draft and the new script.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Matt H. on December 02, 2004, 08:17:41 PM
Very happy to report that our opening went very, very well. We didn't have a full house (a little disappointing), but the audience there was very loud with laughter and applause. As far as I could tell, there was only one slight hitch: the Reverend Mother had a brain dead moment about mid-way through the first act, and Sister Amnesia (how ironic) rescued her effortlessly. Otherwise, the show came off wonderfully with all the sure fire moments registering as we hoped they would.

I have to say how bracing it was to finally hear laughs on lines that have received stone cold silence in rehearsal for a month as everyone connected with the show long since stopped reacting to the humor.

Anyway, I am greatly relieved and want to say how much I appreciated all the good wishes.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Matt H. on December 02, 2004, 08:19:43 PM
Didn't get LOST or LAW & ORDER watched today, and now tonight's JOEY and CSI are added to that ever-growing list of DVR shows.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Dan-in-Toronto on December 02, 2004, 08:39:10 PM
DR Matt,

Congrats on a wonderfully successful opening night. Nothing better than laughter, is there? Continued good wishes, and thanks for sharing the news.

Pictures?
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Panni on December 02, 2004, 08:41:21 PM
Congratulations, Matt!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: S. Woody White on December 02, 2004, 08:42:04 PM
I goosed der B tonight.

Yes, it was the first pair of goose breasts for dinner.  I sauteed them, and fortunately didn't overcook them, which would have been a disaster.  They went well with roasted beets and wild rice.

I'll try something more complicated next time.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Panni on December 02, 2004, 08:42:12 PM
For the Canadian, DRs... I just heard that Pierre Berton died. He's someone I thought would live forever.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Panni on December 02, 2004, 08:44:00 PM
The Globe & Mail article about Mr. Berton by Sandra Martin was very good.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: S. Woody White on December 02, 2004, 08:44:38 PM
Congratulations, Matt!  Glad to know everything went as well as it did.   :D
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 08:56:59 PM
Yes, indeed - our show - a half price "preview" went well, too.  I look forward to the official "full price" opening tomorrow evening.

RIDE THE WILD SURF....thanks MR BK - I will be looking for that official release.  I hope Columbia did not P/S it like they did the GIDGET box set.....which I didn't buy.

Well.....Holly the Zaftig Sharpei is resting at the Animal Hospital tonight.  She went in about 5 pm.  She will have her operation and heart test tomorrow.....she is have a cancerous tumor removed from her hip via laser surgery.  Because of her age it will be only a local aneasthetic.  Hopefully it will be over by 3 pm EST.  She is scheduled to return home on Saturday morning.  It is VERY quiet here tonight without her.  But as all DR's with pets know - animals are very tough!  Thanks for all the good vibes.  I know they will help.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 08:57:56 PM
Great photo DRSandra....and wonderful stories.

DRPANNI - somebody wants your vote!  How exciting.

Has anyone seen THE AVIATOR yet?
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: JoseSPiano on December 02, 2004, 08:59:39 PM
Good Evening!

I'm back from rehearsal...

I need to get a snack now, but I'll be back..

Laters...
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 09:19:12 PM
DRPANNI - I have seen the promos for the HBO movie with Geoffrey Rush as Peter Sellers - and he looks amazingly like him.  But in the quick little excerpts of the movie showing recreations of movie bits - I can't help but think why?  He can't match Sellers physicality.  And, come on, John Lithgow (I think) as Blake Edwards??!!!!

In less than one hour - on TCM - the original Peter Sellers in THE WORL OF HENRY ORIENT!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Panni on December 02, 2004, 09:21:55 PM
Congratulations on the Preview, Jr.

And Best of Vibes to Holly the Zaftig Sharpei.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: MBarnum on December 02, 2004, 09:25:23 PM
Continued good vibes to Holly TZS! I hope she is resting comfortably and not missing her daddy too much!

[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]  :)  :)  :)  :)  :)  ;)  :)  :)  :)   :)  :)  :)  :)   :)  :)  [/move]
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 09:34:44 PM
Thanks DRPANNI & MB.....she NEVER leaves home, so I am sure she is bit confused, but hopefully she will be home better than ever in 36 hours or so!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: bk on December 02, 2004, 09:43:07 PM
I'm back from the musicale, which was sweet and long.

Jrand, Ride the Wild Surf is in its proper ratio of 1:85.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 09:43:38 PM
MBARNUM did you get your copy of the new Scarlet Street yet?
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 09:44:21 PM
Thanks MRBK....wooohooooooooo!  Lots of stock surfing footage, IIRC - but that title tune rocks!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Jrand73 on December 02, 2004, 09:51:19 PM
Bed time......
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: MBarnum on December 02, 2004, 09:54:24 PM
MBARNUM did you get your copy of the new Scarlet Street yet?

No. Nothing yet. It sounds like some people have it already, but I have not received anything.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: JoseSPiano on December 02, 2004, 10:26:58 PM
Good Evening!... Again...

Glad to hear that everyone's respective opening nights went well.

Glad to hear that everyone's pets are doing better, getting better and/or will soon be having procedures to make the better.

-I'm sorry for the generality of the above - I'm just a bit brain dead and tired right now.

Rehearsal went well.  Well, as well as it could have gone for a first read.  One more four hour session tomorrow night.  -And it looks like I might get called in this weekend for the staging rehearsals... Ah, well... We'll see.  Oh!  Arthur Laurents was there tonight, and he seemed happy.

*However, I only packed one change of clothes since I thought I would be back in Richmond this weekend.  So, if I do get called to come in on Saturday - and most likely, Sunday, too - I'll have to head back to Richmond tomorrow night, and then back up Saturday morning.  At least they don't start until 1:00, so... However, I also REALLY want to get back for Edwina's final day on Sunday.  -I may just go Saturday morning... We'll see...

OK...  I need to catch up on some e-mails and get settled here...

Laters...
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Panni on December 02, 2004, 10:27:18 PM
Skammen! Gift of Love was on Hungarian television yesterday, but I only found out today. Too late to tell my cousins. Oh well. Debbie Reynolds in Hungarian, dahlink.
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Panni on December 02, 2004, 11:57:01 PM
No posts for an hour and a half? Skammen!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Panni on December 02, 2004, 11:58:29 PM
I've said "skammen" two posts in a row -- now three. What have I got to say about that?... Skammen!
Title: Re:SWEET GHERKINS
Post by: Tomovoz on December 02, 2004, 11:58:56 PM
Time for the last post!