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Well, you've read the notes, you're whirling like a dervish about the notes, the notes are whirling like a dervish about you, and now it is time to post until the whirling cows come home to their beloved dervish.
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At the moment I'm so tired I can't remember a thing I've seen this year -- except a second big bug hunted down by Abie. I hope this isn't the beginning of an invasion. Maybe they were just a couple out on a first date and got lost -- and squished. Bad first date.
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DR PANNI- and other interested DRs - Yes, the Baltimore Sun did do a feature article on Arthur Laurents this week. And, yes, it's on their website. But, alas, it's only available to members of the site. Paying members. Ah, well...
All in all, Mr. Laurents seems to be having a good time with this revival/revisal. And he really seems to love this cast - he's very huggy with everyone. -And he even made sure I was positioned on the bandstand better so that when the curtains open to reveal the band I would be seen by more of the audience. -For whatever that's worth... ;)
Btw, I have two tickets - comps - for Opening Night next Thursday. My parents will be coming later in the run. Anyone interested here on HHW?
Going once...
Going twice...
Just PM me...
The show is at 7:30, and runs about 2 hours and 10 minutes - which is great! The past couple of shows I've done at Arena just under 3 hours. Nice to have an early evening again! -Of course, with all the opening night festivities, the curtain time may be a little late, so...
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Happy birthday DR Ginny.
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I just remembered something I really enjoyed this year. A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC, presented by the Los Angeles Opera.
Now that the memory has kicked in...WHAT IF? of course, which I saw 5 (or more?) times. And CABARET and FIDDLER ON THE ROOF in Budapest. And a very wet but interesting BLUEBEARD at the Budapest Opera. Others will come back to me tomorrow. Or not.
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Can't list many musicals or plays that I have seen - there were not many.
"Chitty Chitty Bang Bang" and "Urinetown" were enjoyable.
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OOHH!!! -I thought I smelled something cooking downstairs... My parents are making a big batch of lumpia - Filipino-style eggrolls!
They just finished making a big pot of the filling. -And I just had a few spoonfuls of it! YUM!
The eggroll wrappers are still defrosting... I may go down and roll up a few later... If I'm still up...
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*****HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DR GINNY!*****
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...And to all a good-night... Except Tom, because it's not (night).
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As for shows I've seen this year, I pretty much liked everything I saw this year...
In New York:
Urinetown
Avenue Q
Wicked
Caroline, or Change
Hairspray (with Harvey Fierstein)
Gypsy
Wonderful Town
Dame Edna: Back with a Vengeance
The Producers
In LA:
Hairspray (with Bruce Vilanch)
The Ten Commandments - well, I liked this for all the wrong reasons
My Favorite Year - at the Musical Theatre Guild, courtesy of DR Jay
In Houston:
Leading Ladies - Ken Ludwig's new play starring our own SMA! -And in a dress with a sheer midrift no less!
In DC:
Elegies
*I wish I could see more theatre in DC, but I'm usually working on another show when a show I want to see is up and running.
I know I'm forgetting a few things... Hmm... More later... maybe...
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OK... I'm outta here for now... And I get to sleep in tomorrow/today!!!!!!! -Only have the show tomorrow night at 8:00. :)
Goodnight.
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Happy Birthday DR GINNY!!!
Saturday. My sister Molly and I are going shopping....oh my!
Bugs in the sink and toddlers downstairs - DRPANNI, sounds like a double whammy.
MR BK mentioned he got the book of New Yorker cartoons. There are those (including one that DRGEORGE posted for me a few days ago) that make me laugh and laugh and laugh.
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Shows I enjoyed this year:
LOVING LUCY.....for obvious reasons.
PHANTOM OF THE OPERA - because I like it, although I know it is not a favorite of a lot of DR's.
NUNSENSE
EXONERATED
And that's about all I saw this year....I think. I will have to think....think...
Of course the show I didn't get to see and missed most of all is WHAT IF?
And if only I could use those tickets DRJOSE. HALLELUJAH BABY! and NO STRINGS are two shows I would love to see, based just on the albums, of course - but the music is terrific.
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Threw out the toaster oven?!!!!
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Hello Hisaka & Jed!
DR td - I haven't gotten my issue of Scarlet Street yet (not that it has anything in it that I wrote!) - AND yesterday you did point out Andrew Prine's OTHER claim to fame. I haven't seen that particular issue, but I have heard about it! And now he's married to Kim McAfee??!!!! And he was at DRJane's house when she was growing up. Small world, isn't it?
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Hello JRand, Hisaka, and Tomovoz
OOHH!!! -I thought I smelled something cooking downstairs... My parents are making a big batch of lumpia - Filipino-style eggrolls!
They just finished making a big pot of the filling. -And I just had a few spoonfuls of it! YUM!
The eggroll wrappers are still defrosting... I may go down and roll up a few later... If I'm still up...
Ooo, lumpia... one of the many things I miss about my Filipino former roommate! :D
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Good morning, all! I'm listening to Dawn Upshaw sing "Knoxville: Summer of 1915" as I type this. "One is my mother who is good to me" in Barber's melodic phrases tear my heart from its position and lodge it somewhere in my throat. What a glorious piece! I think Miss Upshaw sings it better than anyone. There's a beautiful Menotti aria "Steal Me, Sweet Thief" on this disc as well, and I swear there's a chunk of it "borrowed" by Mr Lloyd Webber for his POTO score.
[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]
DRGinny, Happy Birthday, dear friend! :-* :-* :-* :-* :o :o :o :o :) :) :) :) :-* :-* :-* :-*[/move]
Another B&N day. I want to hit the supermarket, our lovely Gristedes at 86th Street, and pick up some holiday candy before I go in. It will be a day of mad shoppers and testy parents, and I thyink some holiday wrapped Hersheys will cheer up my colleagues.
Dear Friend BK, I applaud your choices at B&N last night! I hope you enjoy the books for many years to come.
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DR td - I haven't gotten my issue of Scarlet Street yet (not that it has anything in it that I wrote!) - AND yesterday you did point out Andrew Prine's OTHER claim to fame. I haven't seen that particular issue, but I have heard about it! And now he's married to Kim McAfee??!!!! And he was at DRJane's house when she was growing up. Small world, isn't it?
When talking about Mr. Prine, I don't think it's a SMALL world.
;)
Well, the latest issue of the Street contains an interesting second look at VAN HELSING by Ken Hanke, which made me finally sit down and concetratedly watch the dvd last night. . .for better or for worse. Mostly worse. Some things which I did enjoy were the three heroic leads, the Frankenstein creature, the score and cinemtaography.
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She'd outpester any pest
Drive a hornet from its nest
She could throw a whirling dervish out of whirl
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Happy Birthday, DR Ginny.
DR Jose, your descriptions of your roommate's often thoughtless and crass behavior remind me why I rattle around here in a four bedroom house alone. People are HARD to live with if there's no emotional connection. Sorry you're having to endure this fool and excited for your upcoming move.
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Morning all!
I feel a bit like a whirling dervish myself today. I have to go to the mall to get a gift certificate (it’s for Victoria’s Secret—hey it’s what she wanted) for our gift exchange at work. Our Christmas party is Wednesday.
Then I my hie myself home and get ready for POTO. Yay! I am soooo looking forward to it.
I was referring to another Phantom that I saw, Jrand. The very first Phantom I saw. I only knew the part from the CD so of course, I only knew Michael Crawfords voice. I remember going into the theater with my friends and telling myself, “It’s not going to be his voice.” Still you have a certain expectation of what that voice is going to sound like.
The lights went down and I waited with baited breath to hear the Phantom. BUT when he sang, I swear it sounded like Mickey Mouse! I was in total shock, turned to my friend and said, “The Phantom is a wuss!”
My internal editing function finely kicked in and I was hearing Michael Crawford sing the part instead the wuss Phantom. I didn’t even cry at the end for him and I really didn’t care if the mob lynched him. It might not have been a bad thing—I would have helped. ;)
It was one of the biggest let downs of my life.
Glad to say I have seen several Phantoms since then and all have been rather good. No hanging offenses. :D
My friends tell me it was worth the price of the ticket just to see the expression on my face when I heard that first Phantom and I still get ribbed about it from time to time.
I shall give you a full report tonight.
I am having animal translation problems right now.
Bear came into my bedroom with the morning “Woof!”. That means “I need to use the facilities, kindly get your butt out of bed and let me out to use them.”
Then he “Woofed” at the back door. That means, “I have finished doing my business and I would appreciate it if you would let me back in so I can crash on the couch.”
But he wasn’t in five minutes and he was woofing at the window and crying. I looked out and didn’t see anything. I asked him if he wanted to go back out, “No!” seemed to be the answer. But I can’t figure out what he’s crying and woofing about. Hummm.
[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Happy Birthday, DR Ginny!!!![/move]
I've also been meaning to say hello to one of new DR's, Hisaka. Nice to meet you!
Gotta run, have a GREAT day everyone!
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The best theater I've seen this year:
Of course, the four shows I saw in New York were all outstanding entertainments, even THE BOY FROM OZ with its weak book. I'd have to put AVENUE Q on top followed very closely by WICKED and I AM MY OWN WIFE, but all four were definitely my top four choices for 2004.
A local production of TAKE ME OUT was beautifully acted even if the actors weren't well built enough to be convincing physical specimens as the baseball players.
I'd have to say my biggest disappointment of the year in local theater was the revival of YOU'RE A GOOD MAN CHARLIE BROWN. Despite liking the addition of Sally to the script, I didn't like the expanded production with oversized props and furniture, hated Schroeder's new song, and despised the new arrangements which take the "innocence" away from these charmers. Maybe I'm just an old fogey who is used to the simple, adorable original version, but this version left me indifferent at best and actually angry at some points.
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Happy Happy Birthday DR Ginny
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We have two shows today, so I may not be back on at all today. If so, hope everyone has a great Saturday. It's cold, rainy, and miserable here - typical December.
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Dervishes are definitely NOT extinct, I met the girlfriend of the whirling dervish the other day. He goes out to make another ruple; she steps out to make a lot of whoopee.
We should all be grateful that we can still whirl--- some dervishes can't. I think I heard Sally Struthers talk about that-- adopting unwhirling dervishes.
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2004 was not a banner year for theatre-going. Some of the best things I saw were either done for children or done by children. To wit:
Junie B. Jones
The new musical by Marcy Heisler and Zina Goldrich bubbled with melody, energy and feeling. Mary Faber was marvelous as the diary-keeping moppet. It also featured some drag by Michael McCoy as a cafeteria lady that out-Hairsprayed Hairspray (seen the year before)
Cam Jansen
A new musical by two coun't-'em-two Kleban Award winners, didn't have 100% good numbers, but it bopped along with no small amount of panache. I loved how a New York cop accepts the fact that a 10-year-old girl is solving the mystery of a museum robbery.
Godspell
Not my production of Godspell, which was a bit of a mess, but one the co-director and I viewed for research's sake, done by the teens at Amas. The show had some wonderful ideas and gave me some confidence that the material shines no matter how you do it. The musical direction was wonderful, and the cast was full of bright young performers.
Caroline Or Change
There's no getting around the fact that this was a very weird show, starting with singing laundry machines and on to the life-altering importance of a misplaced twenty dolalr bill. Tony Kushner once barked at me "musical comedy is an inherantly conservative art form intended to lull the bougeoisie into complacency." So, one has to wonder what he's doing writing one. It doesn't offer the emotional pay-offs we expect from musicals. But Jeanine Tesori's music often provides wit, and it does keep you wondering what'll happen next.
Wicked
Winnie Holtzman's book kept me wondering what would happen to Galinda, Elphaba and that little dog, Dodo. The performances by Chenoweth, Menzel and Butz were certainly appealing, and the quieter songs (I'm Not That Girl, For Good) have merit. One only wishes the songwriter had retained the sense of what makes a song really work that he had in his youth, when he created Godspell.
The Normal Heart
I'd not seen this play its first time around, and, to be sure, I expected self-righteous speeches, dramatic deaths and catty comedy. The show fulfilled these expectations, but did it with such pace and passions, I could not help but be moved. Larry Kramer's play is more personal than most: it conveys what it's like to shout in the wind, helplessly, and watch countless friends and lovers perish because they didn't hear you.
The Big Voice: God or Merman?
An auto-biographical two-hander actually played by the men who lived it. The bad news first: the songwriting half of the team can't act, articulate, is awkard on stage and his songs often sit there, not contributing to the storytelling. But when Jim Brochu and his book take over, it's amusing and vibrant and a cut above the cliche. About ten times better than that other musical in town featuring a happily-together middle-aged gay couple.
The Crucible
It was a treat to see Miller's metaphorical handling of some of the issues I'm writing about. When it's good, which isn't all the time, it's very good indeed.
Taxi Cabaret
Peter Mills is something of a wunderkind, a prodigious songwriter many years younger than me. He should sue his cast for non-support. This was a depressingly bad production, but, if you concentrated, you could hear dazzling music and lyrics - the sort of thing Charley Kringus and Franklin Shepherd did in Frankly Frank. Oh, wait, they're fictional. Mills is the real deal, and the Caveman song may be the funniest number written in the past decade.
Pardon My English
Encores! always surprises me. Whenever I expect something will be wonderful (The World's Sexiest Man in The Pajama Game, No Strings, House of Flowers) it isn't, and, whenever my expectations are low, I'm knocked out. In a good way! Brian D'Arcy James starred in this loony and dopey Gershwin comedy, and every corny joke in the book landed like nothing you'll see in an Austin Powers movie. It's the old hit-me-on-the-head-I'm-a-different-person plot: one clonk, the hero is a bootlegger (of soft drinks!); another clonk, he's a dashing international spy, a la James Bond. The score's love songs include Isn't It a Pity and one in which a man considers himself lucky because he's heard from every guy in town what a good lover his new girlfriend is. Does that make any sense?
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I totally agree about Dawn Upshaw's performance of the Barber piece. I have them all and no one comes close. One of the most beautiful pieces of music ever written.
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Good Morning!
It was so nice to sleep in... And I have a feeling I may end up taking a short nap sometime this afternoon too!
I need to make a run to Target in a few just to pick up some supplies. Hopefully, not too many other "supplies" will end up in my cart by the time I reach the cash register. -Those end-caps with the Clearance items are always very tempting.
As for my roomie... Yes, he threw out my toaster oven. -Strangely enough - or not strangely enough - he left the wire rack and the now-charred broiler pan soaking in the sink - I went ahead and dumped those in the garbage myself. Yes, he admittedly has some issues. And he also has some "issues". But don't we all - so do I. But his issues are starting to get on my nerves, and his "issues" are starting to give me issues. And I'd rather not starting having "issues" because of him. ::)
It's been a good coexistence in that apartment - especially since I've only been there about five months total off and on in the past two years... But with my current mindset to finally make the BIG MOVE, the incident the other night was just another sign in another long line of signs that - to quote Hallelujah, Baby! - Now's the Time.
;)
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DR GINNY!!!
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And now for something completely different...
Has anyone ever heard of pouring a small amount of hyrdogen peroxide in your ears in order to stave off an incoming cold?
Has anyone ever tried it?
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2004 was not a banner year for theatre-going. Some of the best things I saw were either done for children or done by children. To wit:
The Big Voice: God or Merman?
An auto-biographical two-hander actually played by the men who lived it. The bad news first: the songwriting half of the team can't act, articulate, is awkard on stage and his songs often sit there, not contributing to the storytelling. But when Jim Brochu and his book take over, it's amusing and vibrant and a cut above the cliche. About ten times better than that other musical in town featuring a happily-together middle-aged gay couple.
The Producers?
:P
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Just about to leave for the theater, but I had to log back on to ask BK to give Walter Willison my best. No, he doesn't know me, but I got the biggest crush on him when I saw him in TWO BY TWO all those years ago, and just love hearing his voice on the few CDs I have where he's featured. Yes, I saw him in GRAND HOTEL, too, but couldn't summon courage enough to wait by the stage door to tell him so. So, I hope bk will be my messenger.
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Good morning, one and all!
[/size]
I had planned on posting for a while last night when I got home from SCROOGE. Instead, I am afraid I got sidelined by some personal problems that some good friends were having.
Anyway, the show last night was fantastic. Again, I felt like I really nailed the performance (sorry Ann and Jed, it only happens when you aren't looking). We had a very enthusiastic crowd, despite the nearly rain-flooded streets and high winds that we were experiencing most of yesterday. This morning I am very worn out, but must soon jump (or step) into the shower and head off to rehearsal
TOD
Yesterday’s topic: Nothing in the DVD player or VCR.
However, in my CD player, I have a fantastic new Christmas CD called HAVE YOURSELF A DIVLYCIOUS CHRISTMAS, by a Northwest female group (Divalycious). I know two of the four members of the group, as well as the arranger, sometime composer, and overall producer of the CD, who is a very good friend. The two-disc CD is one of the best new Christmas recordings I have heard in some time. The music ranges from classic Christmas songs to original songs. One of the originals, “Christmas the Way It Used to Be” could easily become a new holiday classic. (Available at Amazon.com).
Today’s topic: Not much. I saw the delightful Cathy Rigby and Howard McGillin in PETER PAN and I saw an excellent local production of LITTLE SHOP, but not much else that was memorable.
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...And Our Very Own Jason Graae got a very nice review in today's NY Times.
:D
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Good morning. Another lovely lovely (that's two lovelies) day in the City of Studio. Took Abie to the park where he played with his friends, visited my old house to pick up some mail and am now back in the home environment. (No bugs today.) Showering then heading down to the Wood of West for bk's signing. An exciting morning for the show business legend known as The Panni.
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Congrats on your great performance last night, TCB!
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I second and third the opinions about Knoxville: Summer of 1915 and Dawn Upshaw's performance. I have never ever heard that piece without crying. It is unbelievably beautiful. DR Elmore some months ago very kindly sent me the CD of Miss Upshaw's performance, which for some bizarre reason I did not own.
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OK... NOW I'm off to Target!
-Anyone need anything besides some laundry detergent, dryer sheets, disposable razors, shampoo, bar soap and a tray table?
;)
Laters...
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I'm on my way to the book signing. Keep the home fries burning. And MattH, I shall certainly pass along your wishes to Mr. Willison.
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And now for something completely different...
Has anyone ever heard of pouring a small amount of hyrdogen peroxide in your ears in order to stave off an incoming cold?
Has anyone ever tried it?
Isn't that how the King was killed in HAMLET?
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[size=8]Happy Birthday DR Ginny!!![/size]
My, we are having quite a birthday bonanza of late...
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Happy Birthday to my cohort in nonprofit fundraising and philanthropic information, DR Ginny!!!
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My theater going experiences were limited this year. But what I saw I enjoyed.
What If
The Boy From Oz
When Pigs Fly
Sly Fox
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DR Sandra and I wish DR Ginny a very happy birthday!!
And now we are off to see a tour of "Jesus Christ Superstar."
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Well, a too-short lunch hour and back to B&N! My manager, whom I love, is being bitchy and snappy this morning, so it hasn't been too pleasant. I think it's because the extra Christmas help is in but the crowds aren't that huge. It seems to me the problem is Barnes & Noble's. We have promotion all over the store encouraging ordering books on line for free delivery, discounts, etc. from the main office, and then everybody wonders where the huge crowds are. Duh! They're most likely ordering online.
So, it's not been the most pleasant morning. But I refuse to let it rattle me, goddammit! I'm gonna get in a holiday mood if I have to kill everyone.
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The very first Phantom I saw. I only knew the part from the CD so of course, I only knew Michael Crawfords voice. I remember going into the theater with my friends and telling myself, “It’s not going to be his voice.” Still you have a certain expectation of what that voice is going to sound like.
The lights went down and I waited with baited breath to hear the Phantom. BUT when he sang, I swear it sounded like Mickey Mouse! I was in total shock, turned to my friend and said, “The Phantom is a wuss!”
My internal editing function finely kicked in and I was hearing Michael Crawford sing the part instead the wuss Phantom. I didn’t even cry at the end for him and I really didn’t care if the mob lynched him. It might not have been a bad thing—I would have helped. ;)
It was one of the biggest let downs of my life.
Glad to say I have seen several Phantoms since then and all have been rather good. No hanging offenses. :D
Danise, have you ever heard the Forbidden Broadway version of "The Phantom of the Musical?" It's hysterical! "Andrew Lloyd Webber" wears the mask but under it, he's really Micky Mouse!
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Dear Friend BK, I hope the reading and signing is a huge success!
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Happy birthday Dear Reader Ginny!!
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The only shows that I've actually seen this year are:
The Mystery of Edwin Drood
Cabaret
Songs for a New World
DANCIN' IN THE STREETS!: A Motor City Rock ’n’ Soul Celebration!
They were all locally produced and all very good. I've worked backstage for several touring companies that came to Olympia, but I didn't get to see them, so I can't say if they were good or not. They all sounded good and the performers and crew have usually been quite nice, but I can't see the shows when I'm helping with the costumes.
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Well, top of my list of top ten musicals and plays I've seen this year would be:
What If?
Locally, I've also enjoyed:
A Little Night Music...at the LA Opera
The Schmidt/Jones Tribute...at Pasadena Playhouse
Two Gentlemen of Verona...done in the open air of Barnsdall Park on fourth of July
Then in London:
History Boys
The Old Masters
Journey's End
Sweeney Todd
Festen
Earthly Paradise
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Thanks everyone for all of the great happy birthday wishes yesterday!! What a wonderful bunch of DRs you all are!! I appreciate it!
Had a lot of fun last night...went to Gustav's in Portland for German food...I had some sort of meatball with sauce..don't recall the name...and it was tasty! My best buddy Mark, and Terry and his boyfriend Jim, and our friend Gregg (his partner couldn't go as he had his two daughters for the weekend) went.
After dinner all of us, except Gregg, went downtown and hit a few bars....didn't get home until the wee hours of the morning. Got hit on by two nice looking guys and one drag queen whose beehive hairdo I was admiring! LOL!
I had a few too many drinks and a few too many cigarettes and feel like I crawled out from under a rock, now! LOL! I am too old for all of this partaying! But it was fun.
This morning I had breakfast at The Orginal Pancake House with my friends Ron and Patrick who weren't able to go out with us last night. I had bacon, eggs over medium, and Nebraska Corn Pancakes with sugarless syrup (the waitress kept calling it diet syrup...I didn't like that too much! LOL!).
I will try to post some pics of our dinner last night. I am beat and must run to the store and then nap (I have only had a few hours of sleep. Ugh).
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY GINNY!
Jose I’m glad you friend Sue is doing well. Yea for your niece! Soon she will adore you. Sorry but not surprised about your roommate. You wanted to leave anyway. Just reading what you said to him, does he understand you are not returning?
Hisaka you are welcome. Years ago my son introduced me to Japanese films and animation. I’m trying to remember the name of the popular story of a little girl. How is that for a clue? :-[ We lived outside of Detroit for a number of years and my friends from Japan, in the car industry, were surprised my son enjoyed this movie so much. If only I could remember the name of it. ;D
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DR Hisaka, I have a great interest in Japan, so yes I would love to hear all about your life there! I visited Tokyo about 10 years ago and had the best vacation of my life in that city! It is a beautiful place, and so clean. The people were so friendly and I hope someday to go back. I will think of some questions to ask you about!
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Here are my buddies Terry (left) and Jim (right).
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MBarnum, The Original House of Pancakes-LUCKY YOU!!! Nic pic.
Bruce I hope you had a successful and enjoyable book reading.
Jose I would not try that method of cold prevention. Just keep washing your hands.
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Here I am looking morose..I don't know why. I must have been hungry!
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I will be leaving for L.A. and a memorial service on Friday. It seems a long way off, but not with all the work I need to get done before I leave. I will try and pop in, and with regret I doubt I will have time to read the posts or note-sorry Bruce. I will be checking my email.
I shall return on Monday to wish Tomovoz a happy birthday. My question is what time on Monday do I need to wish you a happy birthday to reach you on Tuesday morning in the land of Oz?
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Here is the whole gang having a jovial time (the manager of the restaurant was kind enough to take the photo)
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And here is a shot of my good buddy (and gay conservative Republican, LOL!) Mark prior to our departure last night.
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And now we are off to see a tour of "Jesus Christ Superstar."
An approriate time fro JCS to tour.
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DR Jane: OZ is 17 hours ahead. At 2.00pm on Monday for you, I shall be reading Tuesday's notes. (7.00am Tuesday here).
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And now for something completely different...
Has anyone ever heard of pouring a small amount of hyrdogen peroxide in your ears in order to stave off an incoming cold?
Has anyone ever tried it?
My mother used to use that method on me(when I was a child) BUT it was because I often had earaches from too much wax build up. I don't remember being prone to head colds - maybe it worked!!
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At the moment I'm so tired I can't remember a thing I've seen this year -- except a second big bug hunted down by Abie. I hope this isn't the beginning of an invasion. Maybe they were just a couple out on a first date and got lost -- and squished. Bad first date.
From what I've heard, first dates for bugs usually aren't the best anyway. They inevitably get into a discussion of Kafka, and...need I go further?
8) ::)
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Good Afternoon!
I made it in and out of Target. WOW! What a madhouse. It was one of those days where every parking space was gone, and all the shopping carts were in use too. Luckily, I snagged a space and cart without too much trouble, but I spied many a person driving round and round trying to find that space - and, most likely, very close to the entrance.
I picked up my supplies - except for my TV tray. I just want a cheapo on - I'll check Kohl's or Sears or some other place like that later. No hurry.
I stopped for a lunch at a Peruvian Chicken and Steak place and got their Chorizo Sandwich - I've had the chicken and steak there many times, so I wanted to try something new. And I got a side of yucca frita - my favorite fried tuber - along with some extra salsa verde and salsa blanco for dipping. YUM!
Now I'm home putting things away. I just cleaned my iron - the one that I brought back with me from Richmond. There was a huge black burned spot on the soleplate - lots of build up. I had my Rowenta cleaning kit up here, and that did the trick. However, I did notice a few gouges in the soleplate after cleaning it and from the looks of the tip of the iron, it looks it may have gotten dropped sometime in the past. Hmm.. Ah, well.. -I bet my roomie was looking all over the place for the iron yesterday afternoon when he went to iron his work shirts... And I have no idea where his old cheapo iron has been stored all this time. ;)
-Yes, a bit of schaudenfreude (ah, and AVENUE Q reference) - and revenge of sorts - going on here.
Well, I need to do some more cleaning up around here. My mom is hosting the Christmas party for her nursing home employees tonight - thus, the lumpia being made last night. I got some ironing and washing to do... Then it's off to the show...
Laters...
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The Big Voice: God or Merman?... About ten times better than that other musical in town featuring a happily-together middle-aged gay couple.
HEY, DER BRUCER! It sounds like someone's written a musical about us!
;D
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It seems to me the problem is Barnes & Noble's. We have promotion all over the store encouraging ordering books on line for free delivery, discounts, etc. from the main office, and then everybody wonders where the huge crowds are. Duh! They're most likely ordering online.
This shouldn't keep the crowds away, just keep the sales down. Der B and I have often used the stores (and not just B&N) as a way of scouting what's available, and then going on-line for the purchase. But we've also found that the sales in the store often make up the difference and match the on-line discounts.
And I've yet to hear of a home office that doesn't have unreasonable expectations of it's stores.
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Danise, have you ever heard the Forbidden Broadway version of "The Phantom of the Musical?" It's hysterical! "Andrew Lloyd Webber" wears the mask but under it, he's really Micky Mouse!
I always thought that was a slap in the face...to Mickey!
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I always thought that was a slap in the face...to Mickey!
I didn't think that it was complimentary to either one! ::)
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And here is a shot of my good buddy (and gay conservative Republican, LOL!) Mark prior to our departure last night.
I resemble that remark (but not the photo)!
8)
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Back from the signing, which I'm happy to say went terrifically. The author next to me sold one book. I sold many more than that - even the store owner was happily surprised at the number we sold and the fact is he's down to only five copies. More in a bit.
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I just finished vacuuming the basement carpets, the living room, two flights of stairs and the upstairs carpets... In short, almost the whole house. I guess that was "walk" for today.
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OOh.... I just had one of the first eggrolls to come out of the fryer.... I think I'm going to have at least one more... if not five, six...
:D
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Because I do so much theatre, I don't see much! But I can say is that what I saw this past year was great:
Starlight Express
Thoroughly Modern Millie (which I didn't particularly enjoy, but our very own Juliana was excellent!
Big River (with sign language - SUCH A GREAT SHOW!)
Hairspray
Little Shop of Horrors
White Christmas
I think that's all.
Happy B-day DR Ginny![/size]
[/color]
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Thanks everyone for all of the great happy birthday wishes yesterday!! What a wonderful bunch of DRs you all are!! I appreciate it!
Had a lot of fun last night...went to Gustav's in Portland for German food...I had some sort of meatball with sauce..don't recall the name...and it was tasty! My best buddy Mark, and Terry and his boyfriend Jim, and our friend Gregg (his partner couldn't go as he had his two daughters for the weekend) went.
After dinner all of us, except Gregg, went downtown and hit a few bars....didn't get home until the wee hours of the morning. Got hit on by two nice looking guys and one drag queen whose beehive hairdo I was admiring! LOL!
I will try to post some pics of our dinner last night. I am beat and must run to the store and then nap (I have only had a few hours of sleep. Ugh).
Damn, Mr. Barnum, your friends are as good looking as you are. Of course, I have always said that the men of Oregon are all VERY good looking. Yes, Jane, that includes your husband.
[move=UP,scroll,6,transparent,100%]HAPPY BIRTHDAY, GINNY![/move][/size]
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TOD:
Jewish Thighs on Broadway (we brought some red roses for the leading lady)
Children of Eden (we brought some green roses for the piano man)
I Am My Own Wife
and Wonderful Town.
(We didn't get to see much theater this year. :-\)
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Back from bk's signing and a few errands (of course, I forgot to do the most important one - and I was right in the neighborhood). As bk said, the signing was a success. Lots of books sold and a nice group dropping by to chat. There was no reading, just signing and shmoozing. I rushed out and forgot to take my camera, otherwise this would be an illustrated lecture.
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DR Jane, to keep track of time here and abroad, this is what I use:
http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/ (http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/)
With the world clock site, you can customize it on a personal basis and know the right time to make phone calls as well as send birthday wishes. ;D
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Right now, it is almost 9:35am in Sydey, Australia.
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TOD:
Locally I saw two wonderful productions at Open Stage Theatre:
SYMPATHETIC MAGIC
THE GLASS MENAGERIE
In NYC, I saw:
WICKED
THE BOY FROM OZ
WICKED
PACIFIC OVERTURES
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And I wore my brand spanking new Writer's Block Polo Shirt - black with white "Writer's Block" on the left boob.
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DR Ginny, I almost forgot to wish you a wonderful HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!
(http://i9.ebayimg.com/02/i/02/f8/33/01_1_b.JPG)
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Happy Birthday DR Ginny.
DR MBarnum, that was quite a....festive group you were out with last night! It seems like your little "family" made sure you enjoyed your special day.
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Off to the theatre... -I'm gonna try to make a Trader Joe's run in on the way if the traffic is not too bad... We shall see...
Laters...
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BK, glad that you your reading today was such a big success!
I think I will take a nap now!
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Happy Birthday DR Ginny.
DR MBarnum, that was quite a....festive group you were out with last night! It seems like your little "family" made sure you enjoyed your special day.
They did. I consider myself very fortunate to have such a wonderful group of friends!!
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Oh, my, thank you ALL for the birthday wishes I've received throughout the day today! These pointy party hats are getting quite a workout, aren't they?
My husband and son (apologetically) abandoned me this weekend to help out with a Scout thing, but left lovely presents, which I found at my place on the kitchen table when I returned from work yesterday (yes, I waited until this morning to open them!)
Today, I went with some girlfriends on a shopping trip to the new Wild Oats Market nearby and tomorrow my mom is taking me to Music Hall for the Cincinnati Pops Christmas concert (with students from the UC-CCM musical theater program and Sandy Patti or Sandi Patty, I can never remember how she spells her name). We're actually going on the group bus with her retirement community neighbors, so I'll probably be the "baby" in the bunch.
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Looking back over the last year, I'm faced with one big change that's a result of our moving: theater has to be planned well in advance, instead of something we can just "do."
We've made three trips to NYC (this last one didn't involve seeing a show), and each time the trip involved a long drive northward and a long drive southward after. That's about eight hours driving.
The trip to see PennyO in Jewish Thighs on Broadway just north of Philly? I'd say that was three hours each way. South to DC for Children of Eden? About the same.
We enjoy these trips, but it sure whups the hell out of doing these things spontaneously.
Don't get me wrong; I love my new home. I'll take hearing geese honking when I wake up in the morning to cars honking, any day. And der B and I haven't fully explored the local theater scene...well, we've hardly explored it at all.
Still, it points out something that city dwellers take for granted: that there are things in the city that population density makes available, which are less available to those of us outside the denseness.
Restaurants we've got. Fresh air we have plenty of. Bookstores and record stores...ouch. (There's always ordering over the Internet, of course.) Movie theaters, a couple of multiplexes close by. Live theater...no.
For those who will say "I couldn't live like that," well, you probably couldn't. That's your choice.
Do I really miss being able to go to the theater oompityfratz times a year? A little. But not that much.
Of the five shows der B and I saw, the only disappointment was Assassins. We made up for that with major raids that trip on the Times Square Virgin and the Drama Book Shop. We have learned to take advantage of every trip we take!
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Time to get going and get dinner on the table. Something simple tonight, steaks and baked taters. Last night was the bank-breaker, feasting at our friend's restaurant on trout (der B) and venison loin (moi). It gave me a better appreciation of venison, tasting someone else's preparation. That and he served the game with a berry compote and some roasted chestnuts, something I've got to try myself! Chestnuts are new for me, not a West Coast item at all. Yummers!
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[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]! ! ! ! ! HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO DR GINNY ! ! ! ! ![/move]
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Another successful signing - two in LESS than seven days. I bet the radio coverage helped!
Thanks for the photos DRMBARNUM! Lovely birthday photos! Were these all taken with your new camera?
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Plays & musicals this year? Surprisingly, we enjoyed high school productions of Fiddler on the Roof, Singin' in the Rain, and West Side Story, any of which could have been deadly at that level. Our son's friends were in all and we were quite pleased.
Of course, nothing compares to being in NYC in October and seeing The Producers, Hairspray, and Brooke Shields in Wonderful Town. Add in 2 dinners with DRelmore and it was a perfect week!
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I had two dinners with DR elmore, too! (just not in the same week).
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I'm in the middle of sending the slowest 10 page fax in the world (to San Francisco). I think I could've flown there more quickly!
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I'm on my way to the partay. Keep the home fries burning. If I have my way, it will be a very short visit, partay-wise.
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I'm hungry. My only complaint about the signing was that there wasn't enough real food.
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They had some nice donut holes and cheese, though. And bk looked spiffy in his black WRITER'S BLOCK polo shirt. But NOT ENOUGH REAL FOOD.
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That sounds rather ungracious, doesn't it? After all, the food was free and they were hosting a do and were very nice and hospitable. So, I'll take back my complaint (and my mink). Everything was fine. I was just hungry for breakfast for some reason. I guess you can't expect a bookstore to serve up pancakes and bacon and eggs...
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DR Jane: OZ is 17 hours ahead. At 2.00pm on Monday for you, I shall be reading Tuesday's notes. (7.00am Tuesday here).
Okay, beginning Monday at 2:00PM I will send your birthday wishes. :D
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Why am I and the world clock getting that Oz is SIXTEEN hours ahead? Are you in a different time zone than Sydney, DR tomovoz?
Or, is it simply:
I add two and two
The most simple addition,
Then swear that the figures are lying?
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Oh, it was so nice today to not be writing a term paper. I still have three finals, but I'm in denial about them.
I forgot to mention this earlier, but on Tuesday, I saw an old friend on the bus. It was the middle-aged hippie who's been out of work for twenty years from my Career Exploration class.
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Thanks for the photos DRMBARNUM! Lovely birthday photos! Were these all taken with your new camera?
Yep, with my new handy dandy camera...my buddies were about to shove it where the sun don't shine cause I wouldn't stop snapping photos! LOL!
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Hello DRJED, DRPANNI and DRJRand54.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DR GINNY!
Last night, I watched a film The Kid Stays In The Picture. It’s full of ugly gossip but fun. I wonder Evance had done a great job for the world of American movie or of show business. He seems to be one of very typical Hollywood people, right or wrong.
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Yep, with my new handy dandy camera...my buddies were about to shove it where the sun don't shine cause I wouldn't stop snapping photos! LOL!
So where are they?
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Evening folks! I have so much to tell you that I don’t really know where to begin!
First the mail came after I signed off this morning. It held some wonderful cards. Thank you DR’s Tom & Colin and DR’s Ben and Anthony.
I also received a flyer for Dark Shadows. Kinda like a book club only it’s the DVD’s. As I’ve already said, I love the show but some things are best left to the past. Oh, and you get a FREE Barnabas Bobblehead (if you can picture that).
The best part is the first ever sequel! It’s an audio drama on CD with many of the remaining cast! You know I’m going to order that. There’s also a new Hardcover book by Dan Curtis. If your interested, JRand (or any others) just let me know. I’ll either post more information or I can e-mail/PM you.
Now onto POTO.
It was a little more exciting then I thought.
Just after the curtain opened and the play started, a lady started to choke. I thought they were going to have to stop the play. The people with her starting calling for the ushers. It was horrible. I was shaking and realized it wasn’t just with cold.
They finely took her out of the theater and I hope she was ok. I can only guess that she had some kind of mint or candy in her mouth and it got lodged in her throat. Having almost choked on a piece of steak recently, I know what she was going through.
That’s the scary thing about the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. There is no center aisle. If something like that happens, it’s hard for the people to get in or out of the seat. Lord, forbid, there be a fire or some such.
Anyway, the show itself was good. I honestly enjoyed it. I think the Phantom (Gary Mauer) went a bit over the top at times but I did like him.
I felt so sorry for the guys/gals in the pit when they used the dry ice to make the fog/lake scene. It poured off of the stage and into the pit. I bet they were freezing down there.
I never took my leather jacket off. It was the first time I had wore it since I took it with me to NYC.
On the other hand, during the cemetery scene, they had the fire and I felt the heat from where I sat.
I did have a wonderful seat only I could just kick myself because I no only forgot to take my bilberry pills but I didn’t take my binoculars either. I really couldn’t see the faces unless I squinted. Which I did almost the whole time to see anything clearly. I had the most horrible headache when I left the theater.
That’s the problem with my sight. It’s always swimming between in focus and out of focus right when I need it the most.
I thought the pace of the show was a bit slow in parts and there seemed to be many things added that I didn’t remember but over all it was well worth seeing again. And yes, I would go see it again. If I do come to NYC it is on my “Must see” list.
I didn’t go because I thought I should see new shows while I was there. The next time, I will take the time to see a few old favorites.
Well, that was my day today. I never did make it over to the mall. I hate the thoughts of going there tomorrow but if I slip over first thing while most people are in church, I might get in and out quickly.
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Danise, have you ever heard the Forbidden Broadway version of "The Phantom of the Musical?" It's hysterical! "Andrew Lloyd Webber" wears the mask but under it, he's really Micky Mouse!
DR George, I haven't quite seen that version. Just a real close copy. ;) :D
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Cats are not alone in liking a cool hangout!
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What a "cool" picture, DR Jane!
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Cats are not alone in liking a cool hangout!
DR Jane, please tell me that isn't one of your menagerie in that Fridgedaire! ;)
Apparently, it is one of those "known facts" that dogs usually don't mind being cold, and the opposite for cats. I may have mentioned this in the past, but our Dear Canine Morgan must have been a cat in a previous life. Not only does she have a favorite heating vent in front of which she plops whenever the heat is on, but at night, she's usually the first one in bed. Yup! Right there, under the covers, head on a pillow, right between the Dear Partner and I. (I know that last bit might be construed as A) too much information or B) disgusting to some of you non-dog people, but let me tell you, it's delightful to experience. And I never thought I would be one of those people who thought that would be true.)
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I not only forgot to take my bilberry pills...
Bilberry pills? Lucy, 'splain, please.....
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Hello DRJED, DRPANNI and DRJRand54.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DR GINNY!
Last night, I watched a film The Kid Stays In The Picture. It’s full of ugly gossip but fun. I wonder Evance had done a great job for the world of American movie or of show business. He seems to be one of very typical Hollywood people, right or wrong.
He's produced some excellent movies, Hisaka. CHINATOWN being the best. But he IS a strang man from what i've seen and heard.
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Thank you TCB, I think he is.
td thanks. I have the link on my laptop and at the time I was on the main computer. I didn’t know I could customize it on a personal basis.
MBarnum the cat on the card is beautiful.
Bruce congrats on the book signing and sales.
Ginny it sounds as if you are having a wonderful birthday weekend. :D
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Stuart, I LOVE Siberian Husky’s (knowing I am about to make an idiot of myself my children run the other way when I see one) but I never want one again-too independent, too much shedding hair, and too much of other things. We did have one that liked to sleep on the bed with us, panting all night long. ;D
As for cuddling, Bogie sleeps under the covers in-between us.
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Bilberry pills? Lucy, 'splain, please.....
I'm happy to explain. Bilberry is very good for people (like me) that have very poor eyesight. It is a berry that grows in England, I believe and they make it into pies, jelly and such. It was discovered how much it helped the pilots during WWII. So much they were required to eat it for the military.
Now days they make a pill form of it. I take one every day. I can't explain it but when it "hits" my blood stream, my eyesight goes sharp. Everything is crisp, clear and in focus for a time.
So when I go to a show, a concert or something that requires my sight to be very good, I usually take one or two. I forgot this time for whatever reason.
My eye care doctor is all for it since my Mom has Macular Degeneration and Bilberry helps with that. My Mom takes it too.
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Ginny it sounds as if you are having a wonderful birthday weekend. :D
Jane - It's a little odd, being by myself. Glad to have you and the others in cyberspace to check in with from time to time.
In the mail today I received from Netflix Season 2, Disc 2 of Sex and the City. While I should have been decorating for Christmas, I actually sat down and watched all 6 episodes.
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I'm happy to explain. Bilberry is very good for people (like me) that have very poor eyesight. It is a berry that grows in England, I believe and they make it into pies, jelly and such. It was discovered how much it helped the pilots during WWII. So much they were required to eat it for the military.
Now days they make a pill form of it. I take one every day. I can't explain it but when it "hits" my blood stream, my eyesight goes sharp. Everything is crisp, clear and in focus for a time.
So when I go to a show, a concert or something that requires my sight to be very good, I usually take one or two. I forgot this time for whatever reason.
My eye care doctor is all for it since my Mom has Macular Degeneration and Bilberry helps with that. My Mom takes it too.
That's really cool to hear about. And I trust they are non-prescription? So it's sort of ginko-biloba (sp?) for your eyes, eh?
You learn something new every day, here at the ginchiest site in all of internet-dom.
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Here is a moving I am looking forward to seeing.
(http://us.movies1.yimg.com/movies.yahoo.com/images/hv/photo/movie_pix/warner_brothers/charlie_and_the_chocolate_factory/johnny_depp/wonka.jpg)
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Good evening all
A very happy birthday to DR Ginny!
I had a tough day at work today...sometimes my heart just goes out to these kids who are moved from one foster home to another without little or no stability. The two youngest in this group of five children have it the hardest, they've been in and out of foster care since they were 2 and 5...they are good kids, but confused, insecure...and there is deep anger within them.
So it was a hard day...but now I am home, I have eaten a nice dinner, cuddled with my sugar gliders...they love sleeping inside my bra...and taken a bath with my new bubble bath, called Winter Candy Apple...and I am feeling much better.
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That's really cool to hear about. And I trust they are non-prescription? So it's sort of ginko-biloba (sp?) for your eyes, eh?
You learn something new every day, here at the ginchiest site in all of internet-dom.
I get mine at Walmart. :)
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So, it's not been the most pleasant morning.
But, dear elmore, didn't the chocolate you contributed make things better? I used to tell Rob that chocolate cures everything!
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Wicked
One only wishes the songwriter had retained the sense of what makes a song really work that he had in his youth, when he created Godspell.
I guess this means DR Noel is not currently a fan of Stephen Michael Schwartz.
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Hmmmmmmmmm......is there a Dark Shadows link DRDANISE?
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Ginny watching something just for you was better than decorating or are you doing that now? When I’m alone I watch things Keith has no interest in.
Michael Shayne when is the movie coming out? I wonder if the story will be changed somewhat. Spoiler alert! The scene when the grandfather suddenly gets out of bed after how many years, and dances was a bit too silly for me.
Ann having had the experience of cuddling with my son’s Sugar Sliders I know what a comfort they can be. Well, they didn’t cuddle in quite the same way. ;D
Goodnight
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Ginny have a fun trip tomorrow and enjoy the chocolate, if you have any left.
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Before I go, I forgot the TOD.
I have been very lucky this year and have seen seven musicals! Here they are in the order that I liked them. From the best to the worst.
Wicked
Aida
Thoughly Modern Millie
POTO
Wonderful Town
Le Miz
Boy From OZ
Next up: Hairspray in Febuary and I think I shall try to go see David Cooperfield.
Have a good evening all!
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Jrand, here are the sites listed on what I got in the mail:
www.darkshadowsfestival.com
www.darkshadowsdvd.com
www.mpihomevideo.com
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But, dear elmore, didn't the chocolate you contributed make things better? I used to tell Rob that chocolate cures everything!
Today I should have brought in rabies vaccine! It wasn't the pleasantest day I've had there, but there have been far worse. The question is, do I want to stay? I'm only there for a good time and the discount, so if I'm not having fun . .
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I received a very nice phone message from the lovely and talented Ms. Sara Shane, all the way from Australia. We have been trying to do an interview via e-mail...but evidently her e-mails to me have been bouncing back to her. She is using an e-mail from her company and perhaps AOL thinks it is some sort of spam and is blocking it. Usually these things go into my spam holder in my e-mail section, but not hers. I don't know what is happening...so I guess I will call AOL and try to find out.
Otherwise we may have to (gulp) do the interview via telephone...at $1.69 a minute that will be mighty spendy on my part!!! But I will also try to have her e-mail me at work, or I could try to get a different e-mail, like at Yahoo or something.
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Today I should have brought in rabies vaccine! It wasn't the pleasantest day I've had there, but there have been far worse. The question is, do I want to stay? I'm only there for a good time and the discount, so if I'm not having fun . .
...the answer seems obvious, DR Elmore.
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...the answer seems obvious, DR Elmore.
DRPanni, this may be how I feel today, but perhaps I'll be in a different frame of mind tomorrow. I do like my discount! I had a wonderful shrink back in the 80s who had this attitude that most people giving you grief are generally misdirecting some rage that should be directed at a third party. I find that's true a lot of the time, and perhaps the manager was yelling at me because my error in timing triggered something else. What am I all of a sudden, Dr Freud?
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Today I should have brought in rabies vaccine!
It's kind of been like that at the library lately, too. People get real crabby around the holidays.
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And if they can't take a joke, blank 'em!
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Yes DRMBARNUM, try a Yahoo mail address....if you have a Yahoo ID - you already have an email account there.
Try it!
DRELMORE - I know what you mean, I feel the same way about some theatre groups I work with sometimes....but then something fun or interesting happens, and I remember why I am there.
THANKS FOR THE LINKS, DRDANISE!!!
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Ginny watching something just for you was better than decorating or are you doing that now? When I’m alone I watch things Keith has no interest in.
Michael Shayne when is the movie coming out? I wonder if the story will be changed somewhat. Spoiler alert! The scene when the grandfather suddenly gets out of bed after how many years, and dances was a bit too silly for me.
Ann having had the experience of cuddling with my son’s Sugar Sliders I know what a comfort they can be. Well, they didn’t cuddle in quite the same way. ;D
Goodnight
The poster says July 9, 2005 but that of course is subject to change. I wonder how close to the book the movie will be. Christopher Lee is in it as Willy Wonka's father. If memory serves me the character did not exist in the novel.
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DRELMORE - I know what you mean, I feel the same way about some theatre groups I work with sometimes....but then something fun or interesting happens, and I remember why I am there.
DRJRand54, it's true. I think a lot of my disappointment today was simply being yelled at publicly; I was so looking forward to returning, and Patty,the manager, has been great to me for 6 (!) years now with my comings and goings with shows and health. I was looking forward to it's being a fun day and it went to hell in the morning. Well, look at the folks who went to work in the Trade Center on 9/11 in a good mood. And I'm complaining?
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I'm only there for a good time and the discount, so if I'm not having fun . .
Elmore, another thing I tell Rob (and myself) a lot is "Everything's a trade-off." Sometimes, at work, I get real tired of telling the homeless people where the bathrooms are, but then get to do something fun like teach a grantseeking workshop or schmooze with local philanthropists.
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DR PANNI: Thank you for the comment. I thought Evance has already passed away. I should write " Evance IS...."
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DR PANNI: Thank you for the comment. I thought Evance has already passed away. I should write " Evance IS...."
He's very much alive, DR Hisaka. I think he's just divorced yet another much younger wife. And I believe I read that he's going to be producing another movie.
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Stuart, I LOVE Siberian Husky’s (knowing I am about to make an idiot of myself my children run the other way when I see one) but I never want one again-too independent, too much shedding hair, and too much of other things. We did have one that liked to sleep on the bed with us, panting all night long. ;D
As for cuddling, Bogie sleeps under the covers in-between us.
Well, you'll be more than happy to learn that for her birthday gift, my mother received a six week old, nearly all white, Siberan Husky puppy today - even though her birthday is next Sunday . . . it's a combination Christmas + birthday gift for the folks.
This is what DIXIE BELLE looked like a few days ago;
I took 20+ pictures today, which will appear online soon. . .
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And - DR Hisaka - I just remembered that I read that he's going to be doing a stage show - talking about his life and so on!
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Good Evening!
Back from the show... Things seem to be falling into place nicely. We did have some sound issues early on, but they were very minor. The band is finding the grooves when needed, and just laying back when needed. Unfortunately, the piano was going out of tune all night, which happens when a piano is on the stage and under the lights and the heat from all those lights! Something tells me the usual twice a week tuning schedule will have to be reconsidered. But it was a good show.
And I even was able to make my Trader Joe's run before the show. I picked up some cereal, soy milk and two tubs of cookies for the greenroom. ;)
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DR Ginny - I hope this has been a festive birthday for you!
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td - May I be the first to say AWWWWW!
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Speaking of Trader Joe's - I need to hie myself down there and then go next door and rent THE PATRIOT. It's the right period for what I'm writing as was pointed out to me right here yesterday (well - one of the things I'm writing; the other is very contemporary and I musn't get confused, hear ye?)
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DR Ginny - I hope this has been a festive birthday for you!
Thank you, DRtd and all others who have sent birthday greetings since my earlier thank-you post. It has been a festive day, due in large part to all my new friends here at HHW. 'night, All.
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And I even was able to make my Trader Joe's run before the show. I picked up some cereal, soy milk and two tubs of cookies for the greenroom. ;)
Soy milk and cookies...yummers? :-\
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This is what DIXIE BELLE looked like a few days ago;
My, what BIG FEET you have!
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...And as I type this, my father is giving the karaoke system another try..."Rhinestone Cowboy"... Hmmm...
Also, the party my mom held for her employees has just wound down. It seemed to be a pretty good party when I came in, and my mom received a new brief case from her kitchen staff. -She's had her current-now-old briefcase for 20 years! One of her employees remarked that she had seen her with the same bag since the day he started working with her!
..."I Never Promised You A Rose Garden"...
And then there's the food... THE FOOD! It does look like people ate a lot, but my mom also seemed to make a lot. When I prepared a plate for myself
..."On the Street Where You Live"...
there was at least four dozen lumpia left - DR Jed, I would ship them to you if I knew they would make it through the mail; two racks of barbecued ribs; two 8-quart pots of pancit (Filipino noodles, vegetable and meat); three whole fried fish; four dozen chilled jumbo shrimp; one fruit/cake pastry; two plates of sticky rice desserts; three gallons worth of ginitan (the Filipino dessert stew); three bowls of assorted fruit (persimmon, pineapple, mango and grapes); etc. etc., etc...
...."O, Little Town of Bethlehem"....
I could hear my mom begging her employees to take home plates of food with them.
....OHHH!!!! That fanfare is the sound that accompanies the "score" on the karaoke machine - I guess it gauges your accuracy.
..."God Rest, Ye, Merry Gentlemen"...
...And the hit parade goes on and on...
:-\
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Soy milk and cookies...yummers? :-\
Ah, sorry for not clarifying it earlier...
The soy milk and cereal were for me.
The cookies were for the greenroom, cast and crew (Crispy Oatmeal Raisin and Crispy Chocolate Chip).
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I received a very nice phone message from the lovely and talented Ms. Sara Shane, all the way from Australia. We have been trying to do an interview via e-mail...but evidently her e-mails to me have been bouncing back to her. She is using an e-mail from her company and perhaps AOL thinks it is some sort of spam and is blocking it. Usually these things go into my spam holder in my e-mail section, but not hers. I don't know what is happening...so I guess I will call AOL and try to find out.
Otherwise we may have to (gulp) do the interview via telephone...at $1.69 a minute that will be mighty spendy on my part!!! But I will also try to have her e-mail me at work, or I could try to get a different e-mail, like at Yahoo or something.
Have you tried one of the internet "telephone" services? Not free, but definitely a lot cheaper.
You may also want to spring for an International calling card. In fact, the one I bought when I was in Australia last summer has come in handy a few times even since I've been back stateside. The rate to and from Australia is only $0.39/minute with this card.
..."I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus"...
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td - May I be the first to say AWWWWW!
You may be the first DR, DR Panni, but I do believe the official honor was mine when I picked her up this morning - of course that was following an hour and fifteen minute drive.
Even before I took her home, I stopped in at the restaurant I work at (by demand of the staff) and then the real AWWWWWING started. . .
Dixie Belle has been a very good li'l puppy all evening . . . playing on the floor, sleeping on laps and giving Minx the old smell-up. Minx is tolerant . . .at fourteen years, she's gotta be, and I really think that given a few weeks, she'll accept this little gal as a member of HER family.
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I'm back, and to prove it, I'm here. Such wonderful foodstuffs. We had prime rib, salmon in dill sauce, latkes, chopped liver, creamed spinach, salad and a host of other goodies. I had a very good time and even met some new people. Here is photographic proof that I was there - the youngest Wechter, Daniel, sporting his new very long "do".
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The Wechters - David on the left, Barbara on the right. David just finished Writer's Block and loved it.
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Can't remember exactly how this woman fits in the very convoluted Wechter food chain, but she's related to Barbara, having been married to someone in her family (Bernie Cutler, our set designer for the benefit we did a couple of years ago, and the art director for Herb Ross' Pennies from Heaven) - Barbara's maiden name is Barbara Cutler, and this nice ladies' name is Barbara Cutler.
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Finally, a photograph of two vats of sour cream - I had no idea that sour cream came in containers this large.
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And the sour cream grew and GREW.... I smell a horror movie...
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That is a lot of sour cream
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I would run screaming from the house if I saw that much sour cream. Sort of like the Blob. Only sour. And cream.
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I bought a large hot chocolate while I was out and about. I just finished it. It was larger than the sour cream. I am very full of hot chocolate. Thought I'd share.
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I bought a large hot chocolate while I was out and about. I just finished it. It was larger than the sour cream. I am very full of hot chocolate. Thought I'd share.
Thank you for sharing.
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People are listing plays and musicals, but nobody's reporting laughing hysterically. Do not end the year short on mirth! Hie thee to
Generation F'dMonday, December 13
7pm & 9pm
Barrow Group Studio
312 West 36th Street - 3rd Floor Theatre
Admission: $10
Reservations - 212 691 0011 or KNSecondCity@aol.com
Re: Stephen Schwartz
I'm a big fan of Stephen Schwartz, and enjoyed dinner and lunch with him this year (Indian food, both times). As I've said many times, Godspell's an excellent show. There are some gorgeous things in The Baker's Wife (even if I agree with David Merrick about the need to cut Meadowlark). Working's a terrific show. There are some very good songs in two of the top ten longest-running musicals of the seventies, The Magic Show and Pippin. I enjoyed Rags. I liked Hunchback of Notre Dame. Never saw Pochahontas. And, today, I listed Wicked as one of my top ten theatrical experiences of 2004, citing two of its songs as stand-outs.
That said, I won't deny that Schwartz's recent scores have disappointed me. I attend the ASCAP workshops year after year, and SS has a bunch of wonderful things to say about writing musicals. If Wicked had gone before the panel, it would have been severely criticized for some puerile lyrics, and a plot that becomes about something completely different than what it started out to be. I don't enjoy the cast album
DR Danise said something that piqued my interest, and, in asking this question, I hope I don't sound like I'm criticizing. But I'm truly puzzled. You just saw Phantom of the Opera and say that, on your next trip to New York, you plan to see Phantom of the Opera. On a typical day here, you've literally dozens of musicals to choose from, all of which have opened more recently than Phantom of the Opera. Why would you choose something you've already seen over something you haven't seen?
If this could be answered for me, it would be valuable knowledge, and help me understand the theatre biz a little better.
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i was inspired by all the photos tonight and was fooling around with my camera. Here is a particularly nice portrait of Abie. Very regal...
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Well, Jesus Christ Superstar certainly would not make my top ten list of favorites. It was too loud with a lot of yelling/singing. If I hadn't already known the story, I wouldn't have had much of a clue what was going on. However, Miss Natalie Toro brought down the house with "I Don't Know How to Love Him."
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More late night pics... It was a custom in my family to always get a marzipan pig for New Year for good luck. So I got one on my recent visit to Hungary and brought it back. It's sitting in the kitchen, waiting for 2005....
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...On the way out to the car tonight after the show, I overheard a few snippets of a conversation a couple was having...
"..Yeah, unfortunately, that's what we'll have to be dealing with the next four years."
"Yes. And I think we'll just have to go to the theatre, turn to the Arts in order to get some discussion going and to see the different viewpoints."
The Power of Theatre
*I guess I should preface this "remark" with the fact that the final scene of show takes place in the White House of "today".
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And... as regular DRs know (perhaps even irregular DRs) -- I love roast chestnuts. I made a tremendous discovery last year: Trader Joe's has frozen roast chestnuts, imported from Italy, ready in 2 minutes in the micro! And thy're good. And I'm addicted to them. Of course, it's a seasonal item, and even during the season, not always in stock. So whenever I see they're in, I grab a few packages. Here is a picture of my freezer...
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And that's it for show and tell. I tried to take a picture of myself in the mirror, but the flash wiped out my reflection. I feel like a vampire.
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Finally, a photograph of two vats of sour cream - I had no idea that sour cream came in containers this large.
You've obviously never been to Costco. ::)
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Michael Shayne when is the movie coming out? I wonder if the story will be changed somewhat. Spoiler alert! The scene when the grandfather suddenly gets out of bed after how many years, and dances was a bit too silly for me.
Did this happen in the book?
And in the new movie, what's this about Willy Wonka's FATHER??
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...And for those DRs who are possibly planning to attend the show, that's not a spoiler...
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Welcome six GUESTS. We're talkin' about - what ARE we talkin' about? Oh, yes, ten best plays and musicals.
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Jose - I meant to mention earlier - the party dishes sounded exceedingly yummy.
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To add to my list... I saw some Canadian play here this year which I quite liked, but I can't remember the title of it. What was strange was that it was (a lot of was-es in the sentence!) about people I knew back in my early acting days. The "Miles" character in the play was based on the Miles (Potter) I had acted with. I'll have to find the name of the play on Google.
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Jose - I meant to mention earlier - the party dishes sounded exceedingly yummy.
Yes, they were.
<burp>
-And I guess we'll be feasting on leftovers for the next couple of days.
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I love Google! Put in a few key words and found it - THE DRAWER BOY at the Colony Theater.