Haines His Way
Archives => Archive 1 => Topic started by: bk on December 21, 2003, 12:14:19 AM
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Well, you know the deal, you've read the notes, you know the latest, you know the real skinny or the fake fat, so go to it and let's have some fun topics, shall we?
(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0903/weihnachten/smilie_stiefel.gif)
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My mother, neice and nephew are coming to visit today for two weeks and my sister the following week. Will post lots of pictures I hope that interesting events will happen
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So if you have two differents thoughts in a posting separate them and that way we can keep the totals high!!!
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Now this is very strange. Where are the early morning posters? It is not supposed to be this way. I am NOT supposed to be the first person to post after BK. Let's get going folks.
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By the end of the twelve days of Christmas your true love should have:
12 Partridges in 12 Pear Trees
22 Turtle Doves
30 French Hens
36 Calling Birds
40 Gold Rings
43 Geese A-Laying
43 Swans-a-swinning
40 Maids a-milking
36 Ladies Dancing
30 Lords a Leaping
22 Pipers Piping
12 Drummers Drumming
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Now here is something about the 12 days of Christmas I didn't know. This is intresting especially from a nice Jewish boy's perspective
Catholics in England during the period 1558 to 1829, when Parliament finally emancipated Catholics in England, were prohibited from ANY practice of their faith by law - private OR public. It was a crime to BE a Catholic.
"The Twelve Days of Christmas" was written in England as one of the "catechism songs" to help young Catholics learn the tenets of their faith - a memory aid, when to be caught with anything in *writing* indicating adherence to the Catholic faith could not only get you imprisoned, it could get you hanged, or shortened by a head - or hanged, drawn and quartered....
The songs gifts are hidden meanings to the teachings of the faith. The "true love" mentioned in the song doesn't refer to an earthly suitor, it refers to God Himself. The "me" who receives the presents refers to every baptized person. The partridge in a pear tree is Jesus Christ, the Son of God.
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The other symbols mean the following:
2 Turtle Doves = The Old and New Testaments
3 French Hens = Faith, Hope and Charity, the Theological Virtues
4 Calling Birds = the Four Gospels and/or the Four Evangelists
5 Golden Rings = The first Five Books of the Old Testament, the "Pentateuch", which gives the history of man's fall from grace.
6 Geese A-laying = the six days of creation
7 Swans A-swimming = the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the seven sacraments
8 Maids A-milking = the eight beatitudes
9 Ladies Dancing = the nine Fruits of the Holy Spirit
10 Lords A-leaping = the ten commandments
11 Pipers Piping = the eleven faithful apostles
12 Drummers Drumming = the twelve points of doctrine in the Apostle's Creed
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Good morning!
Michael - Everytime I hit "Post" and then look at my long post, I think in retrospect if I should have broken up my post.... Hmm.. In any case...
Yes, I'm up. Yes, I've only had about 5 1/2 hours of sleep. And, yes, I'm about to head to the picture place in the mall to get my picture taken with the rest of my family. Let's hope it's fun... Hope!
And since I'm up already, and showered and dressed - in my new shirt (it's black, long-sleeved, and ever so comfortable), I think I'm going to head to the mall now and do some more last minute shopping... for whom I do not know. Probably for myself. ;)
-Oh, and thanks for the 12 Days breakdown - I have always wondered how the lineup came to be. I knew there had to be some method to the madness, so to speak.
OK - Gotta run! Hmmm.. Maybe I'll get that cake pan this morning! And if I don't see you after the pic, I'll see you after tonight's show.
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Hey good morning all!
I am soooo very tired this morning. Even though I went to bed early (not sure when, I guess sometime between 10-11pm).
So much holiday stuff to do.
Hey I will do what MS suggested and split up my post
(btw, I think it's actually easier sometimes to read smaller posts than a long ramble).
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For some reason I have become EVERYONE's gift wrapper. I think I made the mistake of saying I love wrapping gifts. Or at least I really want to improve. What I really want for Christmas is a new book on gift wrapping. But for some reason I cannot find any at the book stores near here (and online I cannot actually look thru the books to see if I will like them).
My sis and her hubby and brought all their kid type gifts last month. So I did those. Then yesterday evening they stopped off again, to get their last few gifts wrapped (they just stood there while I did it :) )
The night before my sis and I had gone to my aunt's to bake cookies and wrap gifts (I ended up doing all the gifts and she did the cookies). And the night before I had wrapped all my own gifts (so I am a bit worn out) :)
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Oh I felt like Jrand yesterday. I went to the mall with my mom at 7:30am :)
They have this thing occasionally at Sears where they hand out $10 off certificates (if you spend $50). Well they give them out at 8am. And they were also giving out boxes of cookies TO THE FIRST 500 PEOPLE.
We got there at 7:50am and there were hundreds and hundreds of people in line. It was unreal.
But we got $20 off!!!
Gotta run. I don't know if I'll be back today, since I'm going tree trimming.
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I shall ask for all the good vibes that the Hainsies and Kimlets can offer; as I am off to a day of auditioning for Lanford Wilson's SYMPATHETIC MAGIC (and to a lesser degree, Tina Howe's PRIDE'S CROSSING at The Open Stage Theatre:
http://www.openstagepgh.com/ (http://www.openstagepgh.com/)
(the bottom of photo is from the last production I appeared in, though neither of those pictured is me. . .)
So, send those good vibes, as the founder of the theater company also requested that I bring the current script which I have been working on for her to peruse, and possibly present a workshop and/or staged reading of it. . .
Finally, our snows are melting here. . .:)
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Good morning. It has not started all that well for me with irritating little problems. First, there was no newspaper waiting on me when I got up and I waited until 8:30 and still no newspaper. After calling to request a re-delivery, it took well over an hour for it to be delivered.
At the grocery check-out line, the boneless turkey breast I bought would not scan and even punching in the numbers from the label did no good. I told the cashier that all those breasts were marked a certain price, but he wouldn't believe me and sent for a price check which took (seemingly) five minutes. Of course, I had quoted the right price. It was a new clerk at the register this morning. I think if I had gone to one of the other ones who knows me, they would have taken my word for the price.
I have a Christmas drop-in to attend this afternoon, so I'm hoping the day will improve. Keeping fingers crossed.
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Thank you, DR Michael, for that information on "The Twelve Days of Christmas." I had NO idea about any of that, and it now begins to make a semblance of sense. Amazing what one learns at HHW! How can folks stay away? ;D
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Vibrant vibes for DR Tony. Hope things go well for you!
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Good morning dear, esteemed, gift-laden, sinewy, yule-infused, and guapo BK--
OK, so here is the conundrum.......I get a little behind on both deskwork and a consulting job that I am doing locally here in Phoenix, so I have to play "catch-up" and be a good boy and stay off of the computer for a couple of days.
Then....(and here's the rub)....if I try to read all of the daily posts for the past few days, I have run out of time and have to leave. Mind you, I read the daily notes every day, and they always brighten my morning.
But if I just decide to post about the current Daily Notes, then I have missed all kinds of goodies that were in the previous days' posts by all of the wonderful DRs.
I wish I had a job at a desk, with a computer access, and with no boss looking over my shoulder!! Why, then I could even outdo those proverbial cows that are always supposed to be coming home.
So my erudite friend, there it is. Do I stay current, stay "in the moment," and post....or do I try to not miss all of the past daily posts of the wonderful collective brain-trust of this here wonderful site.
?????? ???
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Okay,....here's the second thing going against me......I am a GROSSLY slow and inadequate typist (typer??). I know, I can handle musical keyboards just fine, but I never had a need to learn typing in school, and until the advent of the PC, I hardly ever touched a "qwerty" keyboard.
Aaarrrgggghhhh!!
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For DR Tony -- I send all good thoughts and vibes on your upcoming auditions....take a breath.....
DR TCB --- I did notice, while trying to do some fast skimming of previous posts, that I was cast as Vera Charles...Hmmmm.....I guess I could pull that off! ;)
DRs Jay and Laura.....have a wonderful dinner with the lithe and sultry BK tonight....make sure to order some shrimp cocktail shrimp, and think of me. I wish Kerry and I were there with you all. Where are you breaking matzoh??
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Dear esteemed BK --
I will be back later this afternoon, as I'm off to do some work now for a number of hours. Yes, consulting work doesn't get "weekends" or stuff like that.
DR Panni -- Did you get a new dog in your life?? I missed the post about it, if there was one. I would love to know all about it when you have time.
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DR Music Guy, I can sympathize with you, but my problem is the opposite. I used to play the piano fairly well, never good enough to be a professional, mind you, but well enough to entertain myself or others who dropped over. Since the advent of a home computer in my life (around 1985), the piano keyboard is the one that I've strayed from more and more until now, I know the notes and could probably pick out a song using both hands with quite a bit of practice, but my piano at home only gets touched when I'm dusting it or if I'm picking out a harmony part of a song I'm trying to learn for a show, and I one finger my notes until I learn them.
[sigh] SOmetimes technology isn't such a great thing (but I couldn't live without it now!) :)
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DR TONY
IN ENGLISH
(http://images.google.com/images?q=tbn:BZZ3LXjM0RAC:www.stagepresence.co.uk/greetings%2520cards/SP132.jpg) (http://www.boulevardballoons.com/images/Mylars/Good%20Luck/Q-45182.jpg)
or as they say in French
(http://www.dogbag.com/pics/feces_big.gif)
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Good vibes to TD!!
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I'm off to see Camelot! I should have a full report when I get back!
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DR TD, good, happy, and most successful vibes to you!
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A friend sent me a Cd of various Christmas music which I have been enjoying this morning. I think I have a new favorite singer...Sergio Franchi...a very handsome Italian! Are any DRs familiar with him??? I am thinking he was popular in the 1960s.
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Good morning one and all and also all and one.
MusicGuy, one must always stay current, no matter what the voltage. You can ALWAYS catch up or, at the very least, ketchup, but you cannot always stay current.
I am through asking where in taranation IS everyone because it is so very obvious that the one place everyone is not here. So be it. Be it so. It be so.
Just a bit more organizing and cleaning up to do, then off to storage facility number two and that will be it. Then off to dine, then back to do some homework viewing tapes (only an hour's worth), then perhaps a DVD or three.
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Well, I had an exciting night last night-- which also included leaving a very, very angry voice mail message on DR emily's phone. And then we went to rhumba. Don't ask.
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Good vibes to TD!
Thanks DR MS for "Whistling AWAY the Dark" sheet music post yesterday. Yes, that first shot in Darling Lili is amazing.
AND I had forgotten that This Happy Feeling was and Edwards-Mancini film. It is one of my favorite Debbie Reynolds flicks. So much fun....and produced by Panni's friend Ross Hunter!
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Merde to TD.
DR MusicGuy - I don't know where the new dog idea came from. I have a very sweet 1-year-old named Abie (for Abraham) that I got after my 13-year-old Lab, Katie, passed on. With apologies to all the other dogs, Abie is the best dog in the world. I've had Abie since he was 8 weeks old and weighed 9 pounds. He's a Lab-Shepherd mix.
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DR Jrand53 - One of these days I'll find a way to post the charming pic of Miss Debbie Reynolds and me sitting on the movie set porch. I usually abhor pictures of myself, but this one I like 'cause I look so darn CUTE and perky. And, naturally, Miss R. looks lovely - even though she's wearing a bathrobe and "I'm dying of kidney disease" makeup.
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Dear Reader Michael Shayne--Check your math. You've added an extra swan and an extra goose. Dear BK will have his hands full as it is, and doesn't need those two additional birds, I dare say!
Dear Reader TD--Break a leg!
Dear Reader Music Guy--Dear BK and Dear Readers Laura and Sandra and I will be breaking latkes at a restaurant adjacent to the Pasadena Playhouse. It is called Mario's--Where They Sing While You Dine and, don't you know, the whole staff sings while you dine. Mostly opera chestnuts and Broadway showtunes though, I am sure, they will be adding some Christmas music into the mix as well to mark the season. Following dinner, Laura and Sandra and I will be taking in a performance of Plaid Tidings (the holiday version of Forever Plaid.)
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Anyone who has ever ridiculed the notion that having pets is like having children has obviously never run to the emergency vet with his/her 12 1/2 year old beloved cocker spaniel. As I did at 2 a.m. this morning.
The pup, whose name is Roller, showed a marked decrease in energy and muscle strength on Friday, and I took him to his normal vet, who diagnosed some kind of infection and prescribed an antibiotic. Roller showed some mild improvement on Saturday, so I did not hesitate to go out last night. When I got home (yes, it was quite late dear readers, or early in the morning, depending on how you look at it), I found Roller in the yard on his side, as if he had passed out and remained in that position. His breathing was quite labored. I carried him inside and set him down, in the sitting position, and he promptly fell over, much as a rag doll might have done. So off to the emergency vet we went, and there he remains. Neither vet has been able to say exactly what's wrong with him. I am hoping to learn more shortly.
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Dear DR Jay: I hope your vet sends good news soon! With the five that der Brucer and I have, I know very well how hard that waiting can be.
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The horizontal Der Brucer has been exactly that all day. He came down with a sore throat yesterday, and is refusing to budge from his bed.
Why a sore throat means he can't work his feet or hands is something I just don't understand, but at least we aren't arguing over whose turn it is to be on-line.
Our hunch is that he has to have caught the sore throat from one of the grandlads, because his daughter would vociferously deny having done it to him herself, and I know for a fact that his son-in-law and der Brucer don't kiss. (It's the son-in-law's tobacco breath, don't 'cha know, der Brucer can't stand tobacco breath.) (And add "vociferous" to that list of wonder-words: it sounds like a combination of "voice" and "sulfurous," doesn't it?)
Hopefully, he'll be feeling better tonight; I made much more spaghetti sauce last night than I'd planned on making, and he didn't want any of it, so it's all sitting in bowls, looking forlorn and lonesome. So sad, to be a spaghetti sauce all alone in the world. (A film-version of Thoroughly Modern Millie reference, I do believe.)
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Dear DR Jay: I hope your vet sends good news soon! With the five that der Brucer and I have, I know very well how hard that waiting can be.
Thank you, DR SWW. I just spoke with the emergency vet, and he reported that they had just taken Roller for a walk, and he passed stool and urine normally. (Sorry, folks, but I take good news in whatever form.) This is promising, as last night the poor thing could hardly stand. They want to keep him overnight again tonight to keep him on the IV. Depending on his condition tomorrow, he will either come home or go to his regular vet. I am headed off to visit with him right now.
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DR Jay, Much Doggie Vibage for your little one, Roller! At least you got some good news in the meantime!
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And Break a Leg, DR td!
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I must be off. I'm meeting some co-workers for brunch (and I'm already a bit late) then we're all going to a mantinee of a local play! I ushered for it a couple of weeks ago (and for free), but it's fun and the conversation for brunch will be sparkling and lively!
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Good morning all...
Jay, many good vibes for Roller...
TCB - As a matter of fact, I AM writing this from Jed's computer, in the morning. This is actually the second morning I've checked HHW from DR Jed's place. Are rumors flying yet? ;)
Saw Christmas Carol last night. A lovely little show, I must say. I always appreciate when the kids in a show are as strong as the adults. DR Jed looked dashing in his very bright purple tights. He's promised a picture soon. The director gave us a very different spin on the ghosts in general. The GOC-Past was a little girl, which I've seen done before, but usually in an ethereal angel-child type thing. This little one was played up basically as a cheeky little brat. It startled me at first, but it did work. GOC-Present was of course done wonderfully by DR Jed. How can one go wrong wearing purple tights and blowing a bugle. GOC-Future was totally different from anything I've ever seen. Instead of the usual Grim-Reaper-ish thing, they went with what I could probably best describe as a fairy from hell. Wild black hair, freakish make-up, and doing a lot of shrieking and hissing...it was great fun and scared the bejebus out of the kids in the audience.
All in all, a fine show and I'm glad I got up here to see it.
DR Jed is off for the matinee and set strike, so I'm left to my own devices today...so here's hoping I can find something worth watching on cable...
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Now-Here is a Trivia Question-
No cheating by looking it up on the internet.
What Motion Picture introduced the song MONA LISA?
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I assume "Captain Carey USA" as the song won an oscar BUT then I know the rules for eligibility have changed a few times.
I may have missed it but has anyone let MBarnum know that Sergio Franchi was the star of "Do I Hear A Waltz". Michael you must"get into" this Broadway stuff!
Good taste preents me from making any comments about bugles and purple tights.
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DR Ann: I suspect that many Hainsies have met "The fairy from hell" at some time in their lives.
DR MDS aka Mike: Thanks indeed for the background on The 12 days. Colin found it to be the most irritating of songs when in various versions it was played on the public address system at "his" bank during the Christmas season. I think he prefers the Alan Sherman version.
td: Hope all is going well with your day. OZ vibes aplenty.
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Maybe DR Arnold's question was meant to be tricky and he meant the lyrics as we know them - not in Italian! If that is the case, I have no idea (without cheating!).
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TOM-
You are right on CAPTAIN CAREY USA starring ALAN LADD and WANDA HENDRIX(remember her)
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Damn you, BK, Damn you! Neither my wife nor myself can get that damned A Kid for Two Farthings theme out of our heads. What's worse, my wife goes around singing it in an imitation of the English boy soprano voice on the DVD. All day long it's "One kid, One kid, that my father bought for two farthings!" As those are the only lyrics, you can imagine how irritating it gets.
Came across an interesting find yesterday, A BBC DVD that has four Oscar Wilde pieces on it as well as an hour documentary on Wilde himself.
On the DVD are
The Importance of Being Earnest, 1988, with Rupert Frazer, Gemma Jones, Alec McGowen, Joan Plowright, and Amanda Redman. directed by Stuart Burge.
The Picture of Dorian Gray, 1976, dramatised by John Osborne, with John Gielgud, Peter Firth, Jeremy Brett, Judi Bowker.
An Ideal Husband, 1969, with Margaret Leighton, Keith Michell, Jeremy Brett, Susan Hampshire.
Lady Windemere's Fan, 1985, with Helena Little, Tim Woodward, Kenneth Cranham, Sara Kestleman, Robert Lang
Have watched just the first few minutes of the opening of Ideal Husband with Jeremy Brett as Lord Goring and I'm already in love with it. Can't wait to watch the rest of this.
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Tomovoz, thank you for that info on Sergio Franchi! I am learning little by little that I need to know more about the stage! LOL!
Mrs. Sergio Franchi has a website up devoted to her late husband (he passed away from cancer). After I get a few of his CDs I might send her an e-mail.
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What a great DVD!
Yes DRPanni - I would love to see the photo!
GOOD VIBES to DR Jay for his doggie!
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DR Arnold, I do indeed remember Wanda Hendrix...mostly as the love interest in the wonderful PRINCE OF FOXES. I believe she was also in RIDE THE PINK HORSE.
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DR Arnold. I was always a fan of Alan Ladd. It was great to have a good looking actor I didn't need to look up to - I would need to stand on a box too. Don't remember Wanda at all. Did she play guitar? I still mostly associate Mr Ladd with Veronica Lake.
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For You MBarnum:
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From the rural stretches of the ridge in South Carolina:
Dear fellow Giblets:
Here I am in Johnston on this fine Sunday afternoon. I attended a cantata this morning at my mother's church. Tonight I go to a "little ole country church" to watch a young cousin perform something or other in a Christmas pageant. There will be sammiches and cookies afterward!
Yesterday, we went to Aiken SC bright and early. In case any of you think that sounds like a noplaceplacetobe, Aiken is really happenin'! The entirety of Aiken County is horse country and Aiken hosts some annual horse race or other. Fred Astaire maintained a home there during his later years. We shopped in Aiken (a lovely town) until we dropped and then came home. We napped. We got up and drove to see the remains of a house that had burned the night before. We take our excitement here when/where we can. I have also seen many fine old southern manses that have been spruced up and renovated and, sadly, been priced well above what I would have hoped such properties might sell for given the location. But everything is pricey when it's bright and shiny.
My copy of "Wicked" was in the U.S. mail and sitting my mother's post office box today. We were so frazzled and harried and tired on Friday and Saturday that she forgot to check her mail those days. Never mind that I requested UPS 2-day shipping -- there is apparently a deal whereby the USPS takes over UPS deliveries in certain areas. This is one of those areas. While I didn't get it in 2 days, I think it got here in four.
I love this album to death. It's going to be played many many many times. DR Matt H -- I prefer Robert Morse's "Wizard" -- at least vocally. But that's not to say I don't care for Grey. I loved Morse's delivery of "Wonderful" and would love to have a recording of it.
I hope DR Matt H.'s day has gone better since the horrors of this morning.
BK: There's been some confusion on your end that I think I can help with. Your true love bought those five gold rings from an LA piercing salon. That's why they are different sizes and don't fit the digits on your hands. Two are for non-digits on your...ummm..upper chest region. One is for your nose. Another is for your navel...and the fifth one...well...let's say it's known as a "Prince Albert" and would be worn south of the navel IF one were so inclined to have a piercing there.
Don't do it, BK! Don't do it!! String 'em on a chain or something and wear them around your neck.
Well, I must return to my E&T status as this modem won't let me stay on forever. Also, my mother has a ton of e-mails to read (better HER than me!!).
Later, Giblets!
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Alan Ladd trivia: There is a picture of him hanging in the locker of Sal Mineo in the film, Rebel Without A Cause
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One of Johnny Mercer's last great songs - - -
Often I think this sad old world is whistling in the dark.
Just like a child, who, late from school
walks bravely home through the park.
To keep their spirits soaring and keep the night at bay.
Neither quite knowing which way they are going,
they sing the shadows away,
has long puzzled me. Who does "their" refer to in the fourth line?
As a lyric must be immediately understandable, on some level, I can't consider this a good lyric. I've known it for years and still see a pronoun referring back to nothing. Another great minor-key waltz from Mancini, though.
Yes, the errancy, the truancy:
There's simply too much to do. You have to picture a small apartment on Broadway that is strewn with unopened wedding presents. Cleaning up is a daily assault, kind of reminiscent of an ant moving a mountain. We do a little every day.
But then there's the packing:
So many things to remember (Newly & Bricusse reference): my sister wants the score, my mother wants the CDs with the photos, and I've no idea how many CDs of Our Wedding - The Musical I'll be distributing in person while out there. www.WeddingMusical.com
So, there's simply no time for the friendliest place on the internet.
We leave tomorrow.
I've e-mailed all the California friends, begging them to make dates with us in advance and we've gotten exactly ONE response. One is pitiful. It means a tremendous amount of the trip will be spent worrying about how to fit in everybody we wish to see. But we're very excited about that one invitation.
Finally, my computer just refuses to stay connected to the internet for more than a few minutes. I'm writing this off-line, and everytime I try to post, I lose my connection. Very frustrating.
Over the next three weeks, like Ron staying with his mother, we'll have very limited computer access. But fret not, the shipping department will be fulfilling orders for Our Wedding - The Musical at www.WeddingMusical.com
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I have no problem with Mr Mercer's lyric at all. Maybe that is why is was indeed one of the most successful and popular lyric writers of the twentieth century - he knew what he was doing. I have no problem with "they" and "their" refering to the child and the world.
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Posts In Perspective: This day in 2002 there were only just over 40 posts for the day.
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Posts In Perspective: This day in 2002 there were only just over 40 posts for the day.
Thank you Tom! That does put it in perspective, doesn't it.
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What care I if we achieve a new low? I care not. And when the errant and truant return well, hahahahahahahaha - I shall laugh and laugh because there will be such a surprise awaiting.
Just when I thought I would never find any more Bacharach rarities on CD I find another Bacharach rarities CD, and it's already, based on half a listening, become a treasured possession. It's Bacharach from Italy, all Italian artists doing Bacharach in Italian and I am here to tell you it is divoon. It features two tracks from the Italian cast album of Promises, Promises with Miss Catherine Spaak.
Also picked up the region 2 Valley of the Dolls DVD - non-anamorphic, but letterboxed.
Also, Jrand, I saw that Patty Duke Teen Star album and would have bought it, even though it was mono, were it not for the fact that the record itself, despite being in excellent condition, was horribly warped, just like some people I know.
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Well the family is in, but arrived one hour and half late as it was snowing in Montreal.
We are off not to see the Wizard, but the Lord of the Rings.
I will try to post after the film. Let's get over 100 by then.
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Well, I won't know if all of the good vibes were successful unitl sometime in January. Did anyone notice that I just typed "unitl?" Of course, no one noticed. So, the audition was swell, just swell: read same scene twice, second time with directions from the director, whose comment was, "Wonderful. You take direction well, and build on it. I like that in an actor." But, the casting will not be announced until January! ! !
On the other side of the coin, I presented the script of the musical I've been working on to the founder of the theater, and her comment was: "I see no problem whatsoever in getting a couple of readings and workshops going in our space."
These are the little things that make me proud to be a Kimlet, and to have wonderful people sending all sorts of good vibes.
How's Rolly? I sent my share of g.v.s his way, too.
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I have returned from two, count 'em, TWO trips to the grocery store.
The first was to get the Sunday papers, both the local Delaware paper and the Washington Post, which counts as the local large city paper. Yes, it is necessary to get both papers, because the local paper has the local news the Post never carries, and the Delaware paper doesn't bother with the international and national stuff because it's already being done by the Post. Also, der Brucer needs his crossword puzzle fixes.
But when I returned from that first trip, he leaned up in bed and said, in his most wan voice, "Did you get egg nog? I'd really like some egg nog. And lemons, don't forget lemons."
There's something about combining lemons and egg not that frightens me, but I trekked out again for both. In the process, I found out something that has turned my stomach: Hillary Duff has released a CD of Christmas songs.
It's bad enough that this little girl, still in her teens, is pulling diva stunts that would embarrass Diana Ross. Am I really supposed to believe that this CD is anything other than a seasonal marketing ploy?
Just wait until I make a THIRD trip to the grocery store, for something else that's been forgotten. You want humbuggy, I'll show you humbuggy!
:P
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DR Panni -- Thanks for the info and clarification about your wonderful sounding Abie . Our female black lab, Mazal, just barely missed having her 14th birthday when she passed away this past June. And yes, many of us would love to see your couch picture of you and Debbie.
DR Jay -- Kerry and I send all good strong and positive thoughts for Roller to get much better. Eat a latke for me this season also ! 8)
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DR Tony -- Congrats on a good audition, and the interest in your own script as well.
DR Pogue -- I would be very interested in the information about how to order the BBC Wilde DVD that you spoke of today. If you could either list the info here, or send me an email, I would extol your virtues to the skies.
In other words, thanks.
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And, DRs, as this is free-for-all day, and also the season of Mistletoe, latkes, no room at the inn, and oil that lasted way longer than the "sell date," I thought I would post this Christmas picture of DR Kerry and myself. I'm sure it was only a short time ago.......let me see.......
("first, the crust of the earth cooled, then all the dinosaurs died, then......")
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How awful, MR BK! A warped record is useless. Did any other DR have the misfortune to leave a 45 rpm or LP in the car during the summer? Disaster! And yet I am sure there is another copy of Patty Duke Teen TV Star out there for you. I don't have a way to make a copy for you, or I would.
AND NOW!!!!!!
For all those parties that H/K have coming up! For those who are unsure of themselves on the dance floor - here is the new
HOW TO DANCE PROPERLY
page. Just click....and then choose your dance style. And you will be on the floor amazing your friends! Yes, they laughed when I stood up....but then I started to dance....properly.
And please be sure to let me know which dance will become your own speciality!!! ;D
http://www.zefrank.com/invite/swfs/index2.html (http://www.zefrank.com/invite/swfs/index2.html)
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Kings of Fashion!!!!
What a great picture!!!!
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DR WEL -- A happy Christmas greeting and wishes to both yourself and Ray.....I hope it is a great holiday season for you. Hopefully, you get to see some good theatre and also hear some great music.
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Mbarnum - For when you write Mrs. Franchi - I happen to know she's Hungarian. Haven't got time to tell you how I'm aware of this strange fact - am rushing to a screening - but will tell you later.
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DR Jrand -- I just looked at the dance sight....my god, I think even I could do better, and I absolutely KNOW that I can't dance (don't ask me).....much to the consternation of DR Kerry.
What is "zefrank" and what does that dance sight link to, or refer to??
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What care I if we have a new low? I am high, how can I be low? High as a kite on the fourth of July, and yet no bogie or doobie or blunt has touched my lips, no cocaine has touched my nose, no heroin has touched my veins, no dolls have touched my throat. I am high because it is the Christmas season and because the loyal and true Hainsies/Kimlets are dropping by to post.
I am currently watching a rather marvelous motion picture entertainment, Mr. Claude Lelouch's Toute un Vie (And Now, My Love). I saw this the day it came out and not since and I'm thoroughly enjoying every minute of it. It stars Charles Denner and a luminous Marthe Keller. It also features a quite lovely score by Mr. Francis Lai and that is no lie.
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Just this page, DRMusicGuy....I haven't checked much of it out, but it seems to be on the edge of zany.
http://www.zefrank.com/
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I am trying to imagine our own beloved BK doing some of those dance steps.
What can I say; I have a cruel imagination. ::)
Better still, we use these dance steps for the First Nudie Musical On Broadway auditions...in costume!!! :D :D :D
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I had typed a long review of WONDERFUL TOWN and MUSICAL OF MUSICALS. After writing I hit preview. When I went back to correct a typo it lost everything.
I do not have the time to re-create these. Both were very good.
I never had this problem before the board was changed.
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Dear WEL: Please - the same problem would have happened there in a different way. We had people (including myself) who lost posts for the same reason you just lost yours. In future, just post the thing then read it - if you find a typo hit "modify" and correct it.
I'm sure all of us would like to know your thoughts on the two shows.
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Yes DR WEL it has happened to me on BOTH sites.
Enquiring minds need to know what your thoughts on these shows...
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When I know I'm putting in a long post, I'll write it in Word and then cut and paste. (Good way to spell-check.)
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Dear esteemed BK, and lovely DRs --
This year, 2003, has been filled with a fair amount of drek for DR Kerry and me, and we are quite ready for 2004 to get started. However, We try to focus on the good that has come along at the later part of this year. Kerry made a very touching statement when he looked at this picture that we just had taken a few weeks ago. He said "during this season, sometimes angels appear in our lives and they have 4 legs."
Very true!
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Hall pass !! I must off to the market to buy foodstuffs....sundried, sun-dried, and otherwise.
TTFN 8)
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Awwwwwwwwwwwww....but I did like the pants in the other photo better!
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Post HIGH Post LOW, a sailin' we will go - with apologies to R&H...
I lost a few posts on the old system and nere a one here. Then again, I do what BK suggests to you WEL and that is to post away and then go back and edit.
Computers are fickle things....
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Broadway Radio Show fans - the new show is up and features Stephanie Block talking to Donald along with plenty-o-music
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DR Music Guy: They're both adorable!
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Back from seeing Camelot at Arena Stage!
Without any partiality, I can say that I loved it. I've never seen a production of Camelot before (or even the movie cause I've heard it's long, slow paced and pretty bad), but I do love the cast recording so seeing it onstage for the first time was a thrill...especially as performed in a theatre in the round, where the numbers had a wonderfully cinematic and textured feeling to them.
I thought the cast was very strong. I really liked the performances of the three principles. I have to admit that I don't particularly like the character of Guinevere because I find her flighty and selfish, but Kate Suber really made her sparkle, and it was completely understandable how two men could be head over heels in love with her. She brought a slightly daft quality to the character that really appealed to me...(almost like a Middle Ages Woody Allen herione), and I thought in general she acted the more dramatic parts well too. And such a beautiful voice, at times reminiscent of Julie Andrews!
I also liked Matt Bogart as Lancelot....he played up the role quite a bit, but it worked for me, and he was very charming with a rich, full voice. At first I wasn't sure what to make of Steven Skybell's Arthur...he seemed a bit tentative at first...but by the end of the show, he had really won me over. I think he may have lacked the charisma of other Arthurs like Burton, but I thought he really emphasized the frailty, fallibility and conflicted heart of the character without sacrificing his regality. He had a great voice too, and was splendid during the dramatic moments.
Our very own Christianne Tisdale was fabulous in the dual roles of Nimue and Morgan le Fey...I thought her ravenous Morgan was hilarious, alternately sinister and gleefully girlish. I was impressed too by Jack Ferver's Mordred...my friend Isis (who came with me) and I thought he was cute too...though he had brunette Billy Idol hair, hehe.
The costumes blew my mind. Arena REALLY went all out on this production...each brocade was so sumptuous...even the flourishes of the costumes were carefully detailed. It was just a wonderful spectacle of color and ornament and pageantry. Although some of the costumes looked quite heavy, especially on the knights, hehe.
I liked the set...I mean, there really weren't a lot of set pieces, but the round table rose out of the stage and there were other awesome visual effects. The stage itself was gorgeous...it looked like a mosaic, or a stained glass window, and the lighting changed it into Morgan's enchanted forest.
The orchestra sounded wonderful too, and after the show I had the pleasure of saying hi to Jose, who looked quite smashing in his new black shirt, hehe. Jose, you are a doll. :)
I apologize for the length of this review...is there anything I forgot to mention...oh yes...good choreography (simple without being simplistic) and the ensemble was fab too.
TD--I'm glad the audition went well! I'd love to hear more about the musical you wrote the book for!
Jay--I'm sorry to hear about Roller. My best thoughts to him!
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Good evening all. I'm sorry I haven't been around much. I offer no excuses-- Let’s just say I haven’t been myself but I’m better now. :)
I had something kinda special happen today. I was at the local Walmart when a lady touched me on the arm and said, "I know you from somewhere." I pulled a blank, like I almost always do--I'm VERY bad with names and faces. So I said who I was and she said that where she remembered me from was a show I did way back when!
She said a lot of nice things that I won't repeat but I will say that she remember my singing voice and that she thought of all the people who did the shows around that time, she thought I would be the one to go on to something bigger.
It was like a magic gift given at just the right time. I've never felt so humble in my life.
(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0903/travesmilies/smilie_engel01.gif)
Happy belated Birthday to those I've missed.
I've got some reading/catching up to do so.......I'd best get to it!
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Thanks for sharing the pictures Musicguy and Kerry! It is nice to know you don't still wear those checkered pants! LOL!
And thanks Tomovoz for the Sergio pic...what a handsome man he is, too!
JRand53, thankfully I am none of those dances. My dances is usually the typical 1980s dance up and down movement! LOL! Not much too it, and it certainly impresses no one!
I would do the Twist if it didn't hurt so much after awhile!
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I'm off to sup with dear readers Jay, Laura and Sandra - Sandra will be getting a surprise, that's all I can say at this time.
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And Jay, very good vibes to the doggie! I understand how precious a pet can be!
(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0903/tiere/animal-smiley-037.gif)
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DR Jay: Sorry to hear about your dog. I hope you get more good news from the vet. I've never had a dog. But my aunt treats her poodle like a child. So I do know (sort of) how you feel. Good vibes to you.
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Hey for DR WEL or any other DRs who might lose the stuff they type here: Before you press preview, just copy it, then if for some reason you lose it, you still have it.
I gotta go eat now. It is late.
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Well, once again, because this is "free-for-all-day," I thought I would post this wonderfully off-beat publicity picture from quite a few years ago. Apparently back then, major league sports still had a sense of humor and wasn't so worried about "image" and all that overdone fake macho stuff of today.
Lucky PeeWee Reese ! ;)
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Gotta go get some food ready for DR Kerry, who has had to work all day today. Retail at Christmastime...grueling!!
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Do you know what I hate?
Government websites (from both countries) that don't properly explain the required documents/forms of id for Canadian citizens travelling to the United States.
I am going to bring every possible piece of identification with me and hope for the best. :D
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actually, do you all realise that a Medicare Card is not accepted as a proper form of photo identification while a University Student ID Card is?
how strange that McGill would be considered to have stricter screening processes than the Canadian/Quebec governments? :P
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DR Emily, that doesn't surprise me at all. A few years back, I was told by a bank that I needed photo ID to open an account. I had a US passport, but didn't have a driver's license, and my California ID card had expired. The passport, an official US document, was rejected as ID; they would only accept a state drivers license, which anyone, including an illegal immigrant, could get, just by passing the driving test!
Maybe you should simply apply for a drivers license, take the test, and get a US ID that way!
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Whoo-hoo! Fourth page! ;D :D ;D :D ;D
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DR Danise - what a lovely story. And DRMaya thanks for the review of Jose's CAMELOT!!!
MG - I love that picture. I can only assume the Dodgers won!
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AND NOW!!!!!! [size modified for quote. gpd.]
For all those parties that H/K have coming up! For those who are unsure of themselves on the dance floor - here is the new
HOW TO DANCE PROPERLY
page. Just click....and then choose your dance style. And you will be on the floor amazing your friends! Yes, they laughed when I stood up....but then I started to dance....properly.
And please be sure to let me know which dance will become your own speciality!!! ;D
http://www.zefrank.com/invite/swfs/index2.html (http://www.zefrank.com/invite/swfs/index2.html)
ROTFLMAO!!!!!!!
This "zefrank" site is one of the funniest sites that I've seen in quite a while! I've e-mailed the site link to a couple of friends at work (won't know how they feel about it until tomorrow). There is just so much there to explore! Thanks for the link, JRand!
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DR Jay - Archie the spaniel sends his very best wishes to Roller.
And DR Emily - This is unofficial, so confirm if you're thinking of using it, but I've heard that even an expired passport (along with a birth certificate) is adequate identification. Recntly I tried to find out the postage from Canada to the U.S. (as you know, it keeps changing). The Canada Post website provided all manner of useless information - but did not include any postage rates.
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My biggest smile from the day JRand. Love the "Twirl" it is so "butch!".
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I am a still in shock after that first photo of MusicGuy and Kerry. Who was the the bear in the other photo? Not everyone can wear that much red.
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What care I if we have a new low? Not one whit.
Back from a sparklingly sparkling supper. Here is a photo of dear reader Sandra sporting the Christmas gift I gave her.
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Here is a photo of dear reader Jay, myself, and our lovely waitress Selina.
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Dan, I don't know about the old passport thing since I don't have one (I really MUST get around to it in the new year though, especially because I don't have a drivers' license).
From what I gathered, Canadian Citizens without a passport who were born in Canada can cross into the US (although only on ground via bus, rail, personal automobile or by walking) for leisure purposes with:
a) a government issued birth certicate from any province or territory (except Quebec in which case the person's birth certificate is invalid if issued before 1991 and they need to get either a new government approved birth certificate or certificate of citizenship)
AND
b) a piece of valid photoidentification which demonstrates residence in Canada
I think I should go into international law... I can't believe I actually READ sections of the NAFTA accord for this! :D
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Oh and btw... I have never really appreciated the fact that I was born in Toronto and spent the first three months of my life there until now.
Who cares if I feel guilty cheering on the Habs when they play the Leafs... at least I can prove I'm Canadian! :D
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Bruce, great pictures and great hat!
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DR MusicGuy, loved both pictures. I WELL remember having pants just like those, so I wasn't laughing, well, not too much.
Loved the recent one, too. Great picture of all FOUR of you! :)
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Got a chance to see THE LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY GENTLEMEN tonight which the hosts for the drop-in showed me when everyone had left. (They insisted; I didn't want to overstay my welcome.)
I've never read the graphic novels, so I had only the movie itself to go on. Not one I would recommend to friends unless it's for the eye candy which certainly was present. The screenplay seemed to play much too fast and loose with the established stories of the extraordinary gentlemen (and lady), enough that it bothered me to see contradictions to established canons of these characters.
My brother has been pestering the daylights out of me for a year to watch FRAILTY. I finally got around to recording it two days ago, but this deluge of parties has kept me from watching it yet. Has anyone seen it and has a comment about it. My brother is a notorious bust when it comes to movie recommendations.
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I had typed a long review of WONDERFUL TOWN and MUSICAL OF MUSICALS. After writing I hit preview. When I went back to correct a typo it lost everything.
I do not have the time to re-create these. Both were very good.
I never had this problem before the board was changed.
WEL, if you haven't posted this on the tech board for Mr. Mark Bakalor to answer (I hope he doesn't mind me answering it in the meantime), I think that your problem is that you went "back" after you previewed your message. DON'T DO THAT! You can click "preview," but if you scroll down a bit, the screen to type your message is there (again) below your preview. A bit below that you'll see the "Post" and "Preview" buttons again. Using those, you can preview as many time as you want (you'll just keep going forward to a new preview screen) and then post from there.
The only thing to be remember is if you're going to post a picture using the "Attach" box, you can't preview that. You can preview what you type but only attach your picture the last time when you actually "post" it.
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I lost posts on the old board using preview, so I NEVER use it now. I write and then go back and modify when I've made glaring errors or have additional thoughts.
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Well back from LOFR:TROTK. The kids enjoyed and my mother enjoyed it. My nephew is 10 and watching him watch the film made me understand the PG-13. Well I am off to bed. I must work tomorrow while the play and frolic and frolic and play in hopefully sunny and warm weather.
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I just read that actress Hope Lange died. Remember her two years on THE GHOST AND MRS. MUIR (two Emmy awards) or her lovely performances in PEYTON PLACE (Oscar nomination) and BUS STOP? I'll miss her. :(
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My sister is giving me a very unexpected holiday gift. She is redesigning my bedroom/office. New carpet, walls painted and a new bed. Getting rid of the awful single and get a wider bed. Something in a Queen would be nice. I am going to have to check them out over the next few days.
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And BTW I am very proud of hall the BKers and Hainses as you did reach over 100 post by the time I got back from the film. Now we have to make sure that today is not the lowest on record.
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I know I may be opening a can worms here knowing some of my fellower DRs, but what the heck. Refering back to two previous post: "Can anyone recommend a good Queen?"
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I just read that actress Hope Lange died. Remember her two years on THE GHOST AND MRS. MUIR (two Emmy awards) or her lovely performances in PEYTON PLACE (Oscar nomination) and BUS STOP? I'll miss her. :(
She couldn't have been that old. Sad. She was a wonderful actress. I also remember her in the ground breaking TV film That Certain Summer.
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Loved Hope Lange in The Ghost and Mrs. Muir, along with Edward Mulhare and Charles Nelson Reilly.
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The piece I read said Hope Lange was 70.
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...Getting rid of the awful single and get a wider bed. Something in a Queen would be nice. I am going to have to check them out over the next few days.
Ah, yes, having a Queen in bed can be wonderful!
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Really had a long day here, so I'm off to bed. Hope everyone has a good rest of the evening. I'll look forward to readingf the rest of the posts tomorrow morning.
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Nice photos, BK. (DR Jay - such a punim!)
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DR Michael Shayne --
If you were asking for real about beds (queen or otherwise ::) ), I'll throw out my 2 cents to you.
DR Kerry and I replaced our aging King bed a while back, and after looking at a number of things we purchased a "Select Comfort" bed. That is the one with the adjustable "sleep number" that you hear advertised.
It is a fairly complex air system, and the price is fairly ghastly (a Gloria Upson reference), but I have never slept better. The most telling thing was how much better my back felt upon awakening in the morning on this new contraption.
There....end of commercial, and no, I don't work for the company.
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Dear BK --
You all look like you had a splendid repast at Mario's. And DR Sandra's new "Swedish Chef" hat was most chic! I can just see her wearing it to lectures and things, or maybe whipping up an impromptu batch of floop.
Nighty night....don't let the bed bugs bite.....lock the door, and dorme bien!
8)
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Good evening!
Well, I just lost a post too.. but that was because I forgot to log in. Oops! At least it wasn't a long one.. yet.
WEL - I always lost posts on the previous board. It took me a while to realize that the "back" function only worked if someone else had not posted another reply before you. It would reset the page, and thus reset the reply box. So... After a while, it was just a matter of remembering to "copy" my text before doing any final previewing and editing.
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DR Jay - I have a feeling - vibes, if you will - that the vet will have very good news for you in the morning, and that Roller will be back with his/her(? - sorry can't recall right now) favorite Punim sooner rather than later. :)
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Ah! MusicGuy. "Dorme Dorme Dorme" an Eydie Gorme reference for her hit on this side of the big peaceful pond. The song was featured in "Rock-A-Bye Baby" (Jerry Lewis and Connie Stevens). Memories.
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And to all good Dear Readers, YES I STILL have those checkered pants! I think the legs are wider than the waist. And the cuffs! Great repository for peas and lint and God only knows what. They still fit as of a few years ago, I'm afraid they don't anymore-- which is prboably fine-- I'd end up looking like an aging Brady kid waiting for Alice to do the laundry. I wouldn't mind having the hair back though. I can't believe DRMusicGuy posted that pic.
I'm think good thoughts about dogs and auditions and scripts and even purple tights and a chef's hat.
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DR SWW - I hope der Brucer's sore throat gets better... for your sake! Maybe he just needs more cookies!
*Oh, and according to my handy-dandy Priority Mail receipt - it looks like BK may be receiving my cookies as early as tomorrow! -Let's just hope I sent them to the correct address! Somewhere in the middle of Texas, right? ;)
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-Hmm.. that is indeed a strange turn of phrase:
"receiving my cookies"
??? I'm not sure if any innuendo can be read into that statement.... TCB? Tomovoz?
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DR Music Guy - and Kerry, I guess...
So, do the Sleep Comfort beds have any kind of auxiliary unit that accomodates three people? Or more?
-I know, I know, this is a family site, but I had to go there... Well, maybe not... But, what the heck.... It made me smile! LOL!!! ;D
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Why me Jose? Why me? I'm not the one who mentioned and giggled at "Stud Road". You are most welcome to put your cookies anywhere you please (as long as the recipient is welcoming of your offer).
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Just finished And Now, My Love - lovely film - has a strange little detour at the end for about five minutes, but it's just a sweet and wise film and the score is one of Lai's best.
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George can you open the window and call out to those other Washingtonians - Jose has his Washingtons confused yet again.
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DR td - Dontcha just hate the waitin'? I think the worst "God, I hope I get it!" (ah, A Chorus Line reference) wait was after my audition for the graduate accompanying program at Juilliard. I had auditioned late in the process, so my notification time was going to be short - about two to three weeks instead of the usual two to three months. Well, I kind of knew that I wasn't going to get in - I didn't feel good about my audition, just didn't feel "right" that day - but still held out a little hope. So.. When I got the envelope - and it was a thin one - it was not too disappointing, but still a little disheartening, nonetheless. However, the same day I got the "rejection" letter from Juilliard, I also got a nice refund check from the summer music program I had just attended - I had auditioned while in the program (went up to NYC for the day and back). Someone had made a major donation to cover the tuitions of the students that summer, so... I went to the bank, then straight to Tower Records! I think I even bought pizza that night for me and some friends. -And then two months later I had my first professional gig at the Kennedy Center... so... Juilliard's loss ;-)
In any case - boy did I digress - I shall send positive thoughts about you in the direction of the director...
[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]Must cast td... Must cast td... Must cast td...[/move]
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Can't remember but how many days leave was DR Jane granted. Must also be about time for JMK to call in and say hello. I wonder how Ben and Ant. are coping with their English breakfast. I hope they are drinking tea. (I think it is about Breakfast time in England).
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DR MBarnum et al (et frank et louie et joe...) - I used to play for the annual dinner of the National Italian-American Foundation (NIAF) here in DC. Quite the big to-do. Usually some major celebrity (Tony Bennett, Stanley Tucci (soooo sexy in person), etc.) was featured/honored, and a U.S. President would appear - in person or by videotape. It was a full day affair. A medium-sized luncheon, and a major-sized dinner that evening in the ballroom of the Washington Hilton - or the "Hinckley Hilton" as it unfortunately has come to be called by some of the locals. Well...
Part of the day's entertainment consisted of a few selections sung by some young, up-and-coming opera singers. And these talented young men and women were chosen by none other than Ms. Sergio Franchi - Eva Franchi. And I was the accompanist for them.
Putting the whole "show" together was quite the ordeal - but fun. Lots of phone calls from Ms. Franchi about who was singing, and what they were singing.. or might be singing. Then the day would arrive, and we would rehearse at 10:00am, and she would tell us what to sing and not to sing. Then we would perform a few numbers at the luncheon - where she would present the very generous scholarship checks to the singers. Then we would wait around - or go back to wherever - before returning that evening to perform at the dinner.
The dinner was always very "interesting"... and for some strange reason, they would always put us in a weird slot. One year we were scheduled after some "cultural dance" demonstration - the tarantella - the tarantula dance. Well, the dancers performed/demonstrated it... then performed/demonstrated it again... Then they got audience volunteers up on stage to dance with them... First the children... Then more children... Then the adults... Then more adults... Then the adults and the children... So... about an hour(!) later we finally went on. Of course, by this time, most of the audience was leaving and/or too tired out by the dancing, or, worse yet, talking about how cute/stupid/handsome/gawky they looked while dancing. *And earlier in the evening that had supped on some major amounts of food, and danced to the current configuration of the Louis Prima Big Band - those cats really know how to swing! They wouldn't even get quiet during the introductions! In any case, the singers sang, I played for them, then we went home.
Oh - I was talking about Ms. Franchi... She really was/is quite the bundle of enegy, and still very devoted to her husband and his work after his death. If I remember correctly, if she had not lobbied RCA so actively, they would not have had released any his recordings on CD - even though he was a best-selling artist for them on vinyl, and there was interest from the general public to have his recordings transferred to CD. And the Sergio Franchi Foundation still grants scholarships to deserving young singers every year.
*Sidebar: Each of the singers I accompanied when I did these functions has gone on to some nice careers at La Scala, The Met, etc. I can say, "I played for them when..."
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Here, at long last, is the promised picture... Jed and his purple tights. :D
Will catch up on missed posts and shall do more posting myself tomorrow, but for now, off to bed!
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Great story Jose. Sometimes I think you are much older or perhaps have led a few lives. This DR really appreciates your stories about your musical experiences - the other ones are I guess not suitable for this site. (I was just remembering a story about a certain English male singer who put it together!).
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DR Emily and SWW - Re: Passports....
There was an interesting little article in the Washington Post's Travel section the other week. A reader wrote in since he had trouble getting a new passport due to the fact that the form he filled out at the post office was an old one and did not have the new, higher renewal fee listed on it. So, when he sent in his forms, he was sent back everything and told to reapply since he did not enclose the correct amount for his fee. And just sending in a new check for the new amount would not suffice. He had to go through everything again at the post office in order to get his new passport. Well, he pointed out the old forms to the post office personnel, and hoped for the best for future applicants. Well, when he went back, he noticed that new forms were still not in the bins, and that no sign had been posted stating what the new fees were. So... after some complaining to the right people, he finally got the updated forms, and, hopefully, saved some future headaches for some future passport applicants.
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Well, with this post I am happy to inform you we have not achieved a new low. However, what care I whether we do or we don't? I care not. Because soon I shall laugh and laugh and I will be giddy in my laughter and I will dance about like a faerie piper piping a merry tune.
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Thanks DR Jed. Had to alter my post totally. I could not see a photo at all. Now even your trumpet is showing.
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DR Kerry and MusicGuy (again)....
You know, if you still have those clothes, you could probably make a pretty penny by selling them to some high-end "vintage" clothing store... -And that pic brought back fond memories of my yellow Buster Brown outfit from when I was a wee lad -yes, I used to be "wee".
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DR Jed - Great pic! Oh, so are purple tights period? ;)
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Back from a lovely long day with my daughter, Rachel. She slept in while I took my morning walk. Then we went to the Studio City Farmers' Market and then for brunch -- where we ran into my agent. We did various things in the afternoon, then went to an early evening WGA screening of LOST IN TRANSLATION after which there was a Q&A with Sofia Coppola, moderated by Quentin Tarantino. Rachel chated with him after the Q&A and then we went for Japanese food (which you HAVE to do after that film). Then we went to Tower Records and now we're home. Whew!
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...And when I came home there was a "Happy Holidays" phone message from my childhood friend, Carol (see the "mouflon" story of a few days ago) who lives in Toronto. It's amazing that I'm still in touch with someone I met in Grade 5. Well - I think it's amazing. I suppose people who grew up in one country in one basic neighborhood wouldn't think it was anything special.
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DR Maya - Thank you for your very honest and positive review of Camelot. It's always so nice to meet "young people" who are genuinely enthusiastic about theatre and the future of theatre. I tend to deal with one too many jaded "theatre people" - and they're not even out of college yet!
It was very nice meeting you again - as well as your mother, and your friend Isis. And it was nice getting to talk to you a bit more this time. I didn't mean to make you feel uncomfortable about the whole BC/EFA collection, if I did - I was just pointing out that the audiences have been very generous over the past week. I was not trying to make you give more. ;-) -Every check, dollar, nickel and penny helps!
-And it looks like we'll break $17,000(!) with today's take - and that's only after collecting after seven shows!!! And for a theatre that only holds about 800 people, that's very good. We even ran out of posters to sign! However, the generosity of the three leads - Steven Skybell, Matt Bogart and Kate Suber is truly wonderful. Since we're out of posters, they now meet and greet and sign in the lobby after the shows. We have a couple of mini-posters left, and they've been signing those "on demand".
-And, Maya, as for Matt Bogart's CDs... I'll see if I can put in a good word with Santa for you... ;)
I also had the pleasure of supping with Mr. Bogart between shows today. :)
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Great story Jose. Sometimes I think you are much older or perhaps have led a few lives. This DR really appreciates your stories about your musical experiences - the other ones are I guess not suitable for this site. (I was just remembering a story about a certain English male singer who put it together!).
DR Tomovoz - There are days I think back on my "career" and think, "Eh..." And then there are those days, when I think back, and think, "WOW!... Thank You!"
I've been very fortunate with some of my work "experiences". The shows I've had to opportunity to work on. The people I've had the pleasure - and displeasure (great stories, however) - to work with. The places some of these gigs have taken me to. -Sorry for all the dangling participles. The past two years alone have provided me with more memories than I can remember at once. So many good things have come my way, and I'm finally learning to really appreciate it all. -And I'm also very happy that I still have a sense of wonder and nervousness whenever I start a new gig. Work is good. Work is fun. And, thankfully, my work is my life.
As for that certain English man... I'll leave you with this "thought" - "Doing body shots in the Watergate Brasserie!"
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DR Panni aka Anna etc etc etc. I am always amazed at how people stay in contact so long. In my experience it is mostly women who keep friends and keep in contact. My older sister (60) still has her grade five friends as her best friends now - husband go, children leave the nest, grandchildren take over but the friendships are still as strong. I am much closer to my sister's chilhood friends that I am to mine. My dentist is a school friend (but not that close) from when I was 12 and I sometimes email my best mate from high school but we have only seen each other a few times since we left school.
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Delightful stories to share Jose and I don't mind what you dangle (as long as it doesn't frighten the horses).
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DR Jay, Laura and Sandra - Is there any chance you could post the cast list from this year's Plaid Tidings? I'm wondering if Paul Binotto is back this year. He was Candide in Candide at Arena Stage. He did the role twice... with 14(!) years between productions. What a beautiful voice! And who would guess that he also sings in a pretty hard-driving rock band too!
And did we get the "who supped on what" breakdown yet?
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DR Danise - Great "warm-fuzzy" story. It's always nice knowing you're being remembered by someone. Especially when that someone is not related to you. ;)
--Oohhh.... I think my mom has started making her annual Christmas batch of pizzelles! I can smell something good coming from the kitchen... I may have to investigate sooner or later.. probably sooner.
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DR Matt H - Backtracking to the other day - I still remember how the author of "The Summer of the Swans" described the "oval" of skin as the boy bent over - as his shirt came untucked from the back of his pants. The first time I read that passage, I remember thinking, "That's exactly how to describe it!". I may now have to go dig out my copy. I really can't remember any other specifics about the book, but I do remember liking it a lot.
*Did you - or any other DRs - ever read "Friendly Relations" by Jane & Michael Stern - aka the "Roadfood" writers? Neat little story about a teenage couple - children of diplomats - who run away and explore the US. Great portraits of various people and towns. The travels of the Sterns served them well.
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I don't remember that name from the cast they told me. I do remember Stan Chandler and David Engel, though. The other two boys I'd not heard of.
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Loved the pics, BK! Jed, you look simply adorable in your fabled purple tights!
Jrand--thank you for the compliment on my review!
Jose (or should that be Santa, hehe?)--I'm glad you liked the review I wrote! Usually when I write them, I try to think constructively too, but I thought everything came together so beautifully that it was really hard for me to pick out anything that I thought needed changing! I try not to be jaded...I mean, I have seen a lot of shows, but the joy I felt at going to a Broadway show for the first time when I was 13 has not dissipated. May I return the compliment? You've always seemed so good-natured and enthusiastic both times we've met!
I didn't really feel uncomfortable with the BC/EFA thing, I only wished that I carried cash! That is absolutely incredible how much you took in today! WOW! That is awesome.
Thank you so much for trying to get me Matt Bogart's CD for me ;D ! From the speech at the end, he sounded like just a really funny guy. A wonderful dining companion I would imagine!
Well, it's late and I should get to bed...goodnight everyone!
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Thanks, bk... However, I do notice Laura II currently lurking/reading... Maybe I'll have another answer shortly...
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Ooooh.... And I keep meaning to post (again) about the whole "12 Days of Christmas" song (again)...
I remember a few years ago trying to put together a small carolling book for a group. Since there are always songs in one book that are not in another, we were compiling our own from various sources. Well, when it came time for "The 12 Days of Christmas", we found at least four(!) different versions. One had only "nine ladies dancing", while one had "nine lords a leaping". Another had "ten drummers drumming", while the other one had "eleven drummers drumming". -You get the picture. We just kept singing each version over and over to see which one seemed the most familiary to our ears and brain.
*Oh, and just last night, the local public radio station played a song called, "The 12 Steps of Christmas". I need to find that recording! Made me laugh out loud.
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Yeah!! We're on Page 6 now!
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Yes, I'm a postin' fool tonight. A big ole typin', quippin', postin' fool!
-Yes, my body knows that the only "obligation" tomorrow is to be at the theatre by 6:45PM for the fight call to play "Guenevere". -Late? Early? -Does it really matter? ;)
OHHH!!! - And what a difference a new second violinist can make! And, as it turned it, the old, bad-attitude-y one went ahead an quit this morning when the contractor called to fire him, so we had the "sub" in for the matinee too! It was so nice not having to deflect all the negative energy. I was quite giddy, actually. -Of course, that could have been from the packet of Emergen-C I had taken before the show. =8-)
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I was last to post last night. Will it happen again tonight? I need to get some sleep. Tomorrow I take my written CA Drivers Test. Must have what's left of my wits about me.
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Funniest "Twelve Days Of Christmas" I have heard is by Irishman Frank Kelly. It is a favourite in the land of OZ. It's called "The Christmas Countdown".