Haines His Way

Archives => Archive 1 => Topic started by: bk on November 20, 2003, 12:08:37 AM

Title: EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: bk on November 20, 2003, 12:08:37 AM: Well, if you've read the notes you know what is wanted of you, so if you know what is wanted of you you must have read the notes, hence you know what is wanted of you so please do what is wanted of you and if you don't know what is wanted of you please read the notes so that you know what is wanted of you.

(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0903/mittelgrosse/medium-smiley-074.gif)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 12:33:07 AM: I am not one for confrontaion. My knee jerk reaction to jerks is to ignore them. Reaction is what jerks rely on getting. In thirty years of teaching Snr High School students I do not remember ever losing my temper or control. "Jerkish" behaviour is not funny nor clever. Thus it does not deserve a reaction. I probably don't frequent places where I am likely to encounter such people. Wit can be a weapon but has to be handled carefully. Soda fountains are (and were not) part of Oz culture so the concept of a Soda Jerk is alien to us too. I know you needed to store that fact away.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 02:33:42 AM: Like Tom from OZ, I usually ignore them and then get too busy to talk or work or be involved with the person in anyway. >:(
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 02:34:12 AM: I am working on become an HHW GOD...and that should happen momentarily!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 02:36:00 AM: I can feel it......
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 02:37:03 AM: Faster than a speeding bullet....more powerful that a locomotive.....able to leap tall buildings in a single bound....
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 02:37:31 AM: Look! Up in the sky......it's a bird...it's a plane....it's.....
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 02:37:52 AM: It's a bird...it's a plane....it's.....
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 02:40:02 AM: It's me.... And for my first post as an HHW GOD, here is your Allison Hayes Picture of the Week!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Michael on November 20, 2003, 04:07:10 AM: As for JERKS. I believe in the Karma thing. What goes around comes around.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 04:55:51 AM: (http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0903/engel/angel-smiley-008.gif)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: William E. Lurie on November 20, 2003, 06:46:59 AM: How do I deal with jerks? To use a phrase from the zookeeper I learned here on HHW - "Don't Feed the Animals".

And speaking of Ms. Cyndi Lauper, have any other DRs seen a film she is in called Life With Mikey? It's one of my favorite "unknown" films of the 90s (1993). The "name" star is Michael J. Fox, in a role that looks like it could have been written for Matthew Broderick, but the real treat for Broadway fans is the supporting cast which in addition to Ms. Lauper co-stars Nathan Lane and features cameos by such people as Mandy Patinkin, Christine Baranski, Victor Garber, Christopher Durang, (as Santa!), Heather MacRae, Stephen Bogardus, Kate Burton and more. It's directed by James Lapine and features an Alan Menken score, a beautiful Stephen Schwartz song ("Cold Enough To Snow") and William Ivey Long costumes. It pops up frequently on cable, so watch for it.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Angela on November 20, 2003, 07:05:18 AM: Sorry I've been errant and truant -- I've had a head cold. Oh what a lovely feeling -- to have one nostril plugged up and the other one running. ::)

Okay, back to the topic. Hmm, confrontation -- I hate it, but sometimes you have to deal with it. I usually try to deal gently with the other party. If that doesn't work -- then off with their heads! ;D
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MBarnum on November 20, 2003, 07:20:32 AM: All hail to God JRand53 ;D

Congratulate yourself!!
(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0903/sehrgrosse/large-smiley-052.gif)

I think I have a looooooong way to go before I gain Goddom. Heck, I am just happy to finally be a full member! :o

I find that ignoring jerks is the best policy.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 07:47:09 AM: Thank you DR MBarnum! ;D

DR WEL - Life With Mikey is a movie I enjoy. It still makes me laugh when he refers to one of his clients, a young female belting singer as "The Mermanator!"
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: bk on November 20, 2003, 07:53:06 AM: I remember the days when people on the East coast would complain when the notes weren't up in the morning - here we are, the morning, and there are only three or four people perusing instead of our usual East coast plethora, and fourteen posts. I'll be patient, though, even if it's more fun to get up, log on, and see thirty posts. I'll be patient, though.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Maya on November 20, 2003, 08:00:25 AM: Ah, Life With Mikey! It has been too long since I saw that movie...it was one of my favorites growing up and I watched it repeatedly. Miss Cyndi Lauper was indeed adorable (when is she going to play Audrey, huh?) and I remembered being impressed by the girl who played the young actress Michael J. Fox discovers. I wonder what ever happened to her.

You know though, now that I know so many theatre celebs are in it (like I really knew who Christine Baranski was when I was 9 :P) I shall have to watch Life With Mikey again now.

Hmmm....I tend to be rather nonconfrontational with jerks and cretins, but I do have a limit. I usually ignore people like that but if they annoy me enough, I have been known to fling a lacerating comment or two. But people like that just bring you down...I try not to associate with them, although I suppose it's inevitable in some cases.

Jrand--how would you like YOUR shrine??
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 08:18:55 AM: Oh....just a BIG spotlight and my own orchestra...nothing too showy.

Name in lights on the [move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]MARQUEE[/move]

of course.

[move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]The JRAND53 SHOW[/move]

It's all about ME - and I wrote it.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 08:31:36 AM: Hmmmm.... a new god, eh? The heavens are getting a little crowded with all you gods, aren't they? :D

I commented on LA STRADA yesterday, but I just wanted to say I'm very eager to get this release. I never got it on laserdisc because it was SO outrageously expensive, and I'm glad now I waited.

I've never seen LIKE WITH MIKEY all the way through. I've only seen bits and pieces of it, but seeing who all was a part of it makes me want to see it completely all the more. I'll start looking around for it on the various movie channels.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 08:35:23 AM: I had to learn, while young, to walk away from jerks, cretins and morons...I learned they hit back, and sometimes they hit hard!

During my career in the Navy, believe me when I say I encountered more than my share (in fact, possibly as many as ALL our shares) of jerks and cretins. Yes, of course, there were a few morons in every batch, but they generally stayed out of the way.

Of course, when you relocate every two or three years, you have to maintain a great deal of flexibility. Some of the cretinous/jerkish behavior you encounter is not really the norm for the individuals displaying it. Sometimes there is fear and uncertainty in folks who then set up barriers making them seem like cretins and jerks. And sometimes, they are simply hanging around powerful cretins/jerks and yearning to be cut free. Thus, you learn to detect the loose masonry and can then chip away at the walls to bring those souls out into the light.

But yes, there are born jerks. And cretins are a natural part of the order of things. I don't think it's learned behavior in the worst of them -- it's definitely genetic.

Today, I find myself "Braking for Morons."

I think it's more fun to find kindred spirits with whom I can laugh and laugh and laugh at the jerks/cretins. It's good karma, I believe, to have a way to feel good about people who thrive on being boors.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Sandra on November 20, 2003, 08:35:27 AM: Oy. Does anyone know anything at all from Visual Basic 6? I'm supposed to open a file thingie I made in class, but when I click on it, I get this dealie-ma-bob saying that it won't open. It wants me to pick a program from a list, but Visual Basic 6 isn't on it. ???
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 08:41:22 AM: DR Sandra sometimes the list gives you the "use any program" option or a "Search for program" option that finds one to open the file.

Otherwise you may have to convert! Which is a lot like being confirmed only the parties are better.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 08:41:45 AM: [move=left,scroll,6,transparent,100%]JRAND -- WELCOME TO VALHAINSIE! COME! LET US MAKE WINE FROM TENDER GRAPES! LET US DANCE THE DANCES THAT STIR THE SOUL! LET US WREAK HAVOC UNTIL HAVOC SQUEAKS! And then we can do lunch![/move][/b]
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Sandra on November 20, 2003, 08:46:52 AM: It doesn't have the "any program" thing and I tried browsing, but I couldn't find it. I put in a search for "Visual Basic 6" on the entire computer and got nothing. Is it something I'm doing wrong? Other people have uploaded it to the teacher's file, so it's been opening for them.

I swear, I REALLY do not like my Computers class.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 08:48:03 AM: I was reading a video magazine the other day, and was sad to learn that actor Tom Hulce has left the acting profession. After scoring an Oscar nomination for AMADEUS, a Tony nomination for A FEW GOOD MEN, and an Emmy Award for THE HEIDI CHRONICLES, he is no longer acting nor interested in talking about his career. I always liked his work, and I feel sad he's no longer going to be doing new things that I could watch.

John Landis broke the news in the article I was reading about the making of the new special DVD edition of ANIMAL HOUSE.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: George on November 20, 2003, 08:58:09 AM: Quote from: William E. Lurie on November 20, 2003, 06:46:59 AM
How do I deal with jerks? To use a phrase from the zookeeper I learned here on HHW - "Don't Feed the Animals".

And speaking of Ms. Cyndi Lauper, have any other DRs seen a film she is in called Life With Mikey? It's one of my favorite "unknown" films of the 90s (1993). The "name" star is Michael J. Fox, in a role that looks like it could have been written for Matthew Broderick, but the real treat for Broadway fans is the supporting cast which in addition to Ms. Lauper co-stars Nathan Lane and features cameos by such people as Mandy Patinkin, Christine Baranski, Victor Garber, Christopher Durang, (as Santa!), Heather MacRae, Stephen Bogardus, Kate Burton and more. It's directed by James Lapine and features an Alan Menken score, a beautiful Stephen Schwartz song ("Cold Enough To Snow") and William Ivey Long costumes. It pops up frequently on cable, so watch for it.

And doesn't Liz Callaway sing the theme song or some song in the movie? I remember reading about that, although I've never seen the movie.

As for dealing with jerks, I try to avoid confrontations and let my sunny disposish (an obscure Manhattan Transfer reference) win them over. I've been fortunate (from what I can remember) to never have been involved in any major or very many minor issues. :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 09:01:59 AM: DR Sarah - you have reached the tippy-top of my computer knowledge - you may have to ask your professor, or a fellow student how to proceed.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Sandra on November 20, 2003, 09:05:01 AM: Thanks for trying to help, JRand. It's probably something I did when I put the thing together in class. The girl I worked with hasn't uploaded it, so it's probably our file.

Congratulations on your god status!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 09:06:22 AM: Fellow God RON - okay to all three. ;D

Here is my new house...what do you think?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ann on November 20, 2003, 09:07:57 AM: Good morning all

I deal with jerks with a lot of patience..some might say too much. I dislike hurting people and will avoid it if at all possible. That being said, I also have no problem whatsoever with confrontation. If I know I'm in the right, I welcome it. Verbal battles fascinate me (which is why I majored in philosophy) but I don't do physical ones. Being a girl, though, I don't encounter them very much. (was that a stereotypical generalization? Oh well.. :)) I think the last person I outright physically fought with was my sister when we were kids.
So I guess how I deal with jerks depends on how well I know said jerk.
If he or she is a friend of mine, and just ACTING like a jerk, I'm more likely to let it slide to avoid hurting them. If the jerk is a born jerk (which aren't usually friends of mine anyway) I'll let 'em have it with both barrels if necessary.

Off to class...

(By the way, had some wild dreams about HHW people last night...I'll post later)

(has anyone noticed I'm really into the parenthises today?)

(does anyone know if I spelled parenthises right?)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Maya on November 20, 2003, 09:09:02 AM: Here he is, Boys...here he is, World...

HEEEERE'S JACK!! *cue trumpets*

(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0903/party/party-smiley-038.gif)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 09:10:31 AM: We were doing a production of Steve Tesich's play Square One a few years ago.

He came into town for opening night and said that he had based his play on La Strada. :D

I could see it in bits a pieces, but need to see the movie again. Has any DR seen both and could help me out here? ???

This is not a link to OUR production, but it tells a bit about the play.

http://www.nytheatre.com/nytheatre/square1.htm (http://www.nytheatre.com/nytheatre/square1.htm)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 09:10:36 AM: Quote from: JRand53 on November 20, 2003, 09:06:22 AM
Fellow God RON - okay to all three. ;D

Here is my new house...what do you think?

It looks a little dusty....
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 09:13:37 AM: LOL DR RON - oh it is, and the atmosphere is nothing to brag about either!

Thanks DR Maya - now just imagine me there in that outfit, lip syncing to Rosalind Russell's version of "Rose's Turn" and ya got it!

I think it's all "e's" and no "i's" DR Ann.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Maya on November 20, 2003, 09:13:48 AM: La Strada WAS a great movie....so sad.

How was the White Sheikh?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 09:22:50 AM: With all the talk about Neil Simon stuff yesterday, I don't remember anyone mentioning the film of PLAZA SUITE. (CALIFORNIA SUITE got some mentions for the "Visitor from London" segment.)

I think the movie is very stage bound; maybe it had to be that way, and I really dislike that they used different women in all three one acts but Walter Matthau in all three in a variety of wigs. I love Walter Matthau, but wouldn't the movie have been more appealing with three different leading men and three different leading women? I understand that the play used one leading man and one leading lady to provide a tour de force evening for them on stage. I have no criticisms of Maureen Stapleton (who did it on Broadway), Barbara Harris, or Lee Grant (hysterical in the third act), but I did get tired of Matthau trying to be versatile. Am I alone in my thoughts about this.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 09:27:43 AM: No DR MATTH - I had the same feelings about the movie of PLAZA SUITE. I have seen all of it at different times, but could never watch the movie all the way through at one sitting.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: JoseSPiano on November 20, 2003, 09:29:03 AM: Good day!

Yoo-hoo!!!

I'm here!!!!

Can't you see me waving from underneath the Round Table? (literally)

Camelot opens tonight - well, at least the Gala Opening, tomorrow is the Press Opening - and that means I can start getting my life back. I'm not saying that I've been having a bad life in Lerner & Loewe land, but it will be nice to be able to have a day that consists more of just "rehearsal" and "sleep" (I hope). (Which has made me admire our own BK for his ability and steadfastness getting these notes up daily with his crazy schedule.) The show has gone through an amazing transformation, and the casting through and through is impeccable, imho.

I have missed all of you here on HHW, and I know I've missed some birthdays, anniversaries, hot topics, etc... So....

Happy Birthday, (fill in your name here)!

Happy Anniversary, (fill in your name here)!

Welcome new DR, (fill in your name here!

Oh, yes, me too, I totally agree!

Oh, no, me too, I totally don't agree!

Hmm, I don't know...

Etc., etc., etc..... -Ah, a King & I reference.

Oh, if you check out arenastage.org, you can view the cast list and bios - although the font color and background make it a little hard to read - ??? - I may have to talk to the webmaster at the theatre about that. Production photos should be up next week. And I actually got a bio this time too! -Alas, the part about me being a "Scarlette" did get edited out (???), but at least Jeepers Creepers got a plug. *And I have already people ask about it too! :D

WOW! - This is the first time I've used the actual reply form - it's very neat having all the editing options on a tool bar - now if I only knew what they all did. ???

Well, I have some opening presents to wrap, card - and some still to buy, so, I'm off down my own Strada for a little bit.

It's nice to be back. *And thanks to those DRs who touched based with me during my absence. There was nothing to be concerned about, but it was nice being concerned about.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 09:30:45 AM: Just a reminder of a movie star we lost in 2003. :'(
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MBarnum on November 20, 2003, 09:30:46 AM: Although this is not "Ask DR" day, is just happened to think of a fun "Ask Dr" day question:

At what point in the season do you break out the Christmas music CDs?

I always wait until the day after Thanksgiving. I have some friends who listen to Christmas music all year long, and some who don't listen to it at all. But I limit myself to the day after Thanksgiving and stop listening the day after Christmas. That is just the time that I feel the Christmasyest.

...And for those who don't celebrate Christmas, do you still enjoy listening to Christmas music? Or do you have other holiday music that you listent to?

(Also, I am NOT one of those people who gets all up in a twist about stores putting Christmas stuff out early...I for one LOVE to see the Christmas stuff out as early as possible...it is fun to look through. If I don't see the decorations on the shelf by at least October then I am mighty disappointed! Frankly I would be happy to have Christmas stuff on the shelf all year around...but the Christmas music I would get a little sick of if I listened to it all year round. Go figure.)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 09:31:49 AM: Welcome back, DR Jose. Always nice to see one of our sheep return to the fold.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 09:32:28 AM: DR JOSE - my birthday twin! Run, boy, ruuuuuuun!!!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: JoseSPiano on November 20, 2003, 09:32:29 AM: Oh, and for dealing with jerks... Being in this business... ah, well... You know...

Most of the time, I just ignore them, and channel my energy towards more productive uses. However, there are those times when I rather enjoy giving back to them what they are dishing out - especially if there are others around me who feel the same way. Kind of a team effort. There's a strange enjoyment in that kind of sport. It may not be the most charitable attidude at times, but sometimes it helps me get through the day - or at least the rehearsal. ;-)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MBarnum on November 20, 2003, 09:33:14 AM: JRand53, thank you for the lovely shot of Vera Ralston! I just loved her when I was a kid. And watching her in MURDER IN THE MUSIC HALL just recently reminded me that she was not really as bad of an actress as some seem to believe.

I wonder if the Oscar telecast next year will mention her, or others that we lost. Lately they only mention the major stars, no longer do they seem to mention the smaller stars >:(
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 09:34:45 AM: I do enjoy Christmas music, and I usually add one or two Christmas CDs to my collection each year and start them in their annual rotation. I'll probably start Thanksgiving week breaking them out. I have to admit that a couple of local FM stations have already started with the 24 hour Christmas music, so I've been listening to Christmas music already when in the car. I find much of it either really soothing or bracing and jolly.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 09:39:54 AM: I listen to Christmas music from Thanksgiving until Christmas Eve!

Hey! DRJose just made up a great new word:

Attidude!

And I agree DR MBarnum, I love to see the shops all stocked up for Christmas.
But it is also sad after the holiday to see the lonesome ornaments and tinsel that didn't find a home. :'(

There were some great pictures of Levenworth on the site yesterday from DR Jed and TCB.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Maya on November 20, 2003, 09:42:29 AM: Jose--WB! I'm glad to hear that Camelot rehearsals went so well, and break a leg tonight! (Is it okay to say break a leg to an assistant conductor???)

I'm not sure when I will be seeing the show but I will definitely go sometime during the run!

MBarnum--I grew up in a household with a Jewish mother and a Catholic father. We've celebrated Christmas AND Hannukah for as long as I can remember. So yes, I LOVE to see Christmas stuff come out right after Thanksgiving. I just adore the holiday atmosphere...the holly, the red and green, the Santas everywhere, the lights, the carols (I NEVER get sick of "The Bells" for instance). One aspect though of the holiday season I do NOT like....the mall!!! Which reminds me *groan*...I SO need to start on my shopping....
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: ArnoldMBrockman on November 20, 2003, 09:46:15 AM: VERA HRUBA RALSTON,my pretties!!!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Maya on November 20, 2003, 09:46:17 AM: WOW...re-reading that POST I am VERY emphatic about CHRISTMAS!!!!!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 09:47:50 AM: Carly Simon has a new Christmas album out -- on Rhino label.

I got it when I ordered "Gypsy," but I haven't listened to it yet.

Yes, my "Gypsy" has that shrill, almost metallic, sound to it, too! I keep wanting to turn something down, but there's nothing to turn down.

They shoudl remaster it and replace it, gratis, to all who bought it.

Does anyone else "prefer" the alternate "Rose's Turn" to the one they used?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: bk on November 20, 2003, 09:50:00 AM: Is it me, or is page one in Cinerama AND Camera 65?

Maya, The White Sheik is one of my all-time favorite movies, but unfortunately the Criterion DVD is nowhere near as good as La Strada. It's too dark, too contrasty, and it's missing it's Part Two title card and the entire shot that precedes it (for those who think Criterion can do no wrong - if Columbia had made that faux pas everyone would be screaming and stomping their feet, but because it's Criterion it's somehow fine).
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Emily on November 20, 2003, 09:53:11 AM: Good afternoon/morning everyone!!

I am being very very very very bad today. I am on strike. I refuse to leave the house today if it means I have to wait SIX HOURS from the time the bus/metro works and the start of my first and only class.

I think I need to start picketing. Anyone care to help me make up a chant to sing while picketing? :)

The good thing is that I am now remoting workwise which means I MIGHT just be able to make money this month. Yea! I get to read and summarize THOUSANDS of back issues of the "Canadian Firearm Digest" which is kind of a message board like HHW but with a completely different subject matter. The posters there are not nearly as witty as we are. Although they do have a knack at creating hilarious nicknames... "Canuckistan" for Canada? "Stalin Rock" for former Minister of Justice Allan Rock? "Jean Cretin" for Prime Minister Jean Chrétien? The "LIEberal Party" for the Liberal Party? I shouldn't be laughing since they're dissing the program I'm working for but they can be very funny at times...

I am extremely non-confrontational in most cases to the point where people can sometimes walk all over me. This really only happens with people I don't know very well (and especially sales people in stores for some reason). With people I do know well - like DR Andrea - I'm afraid that I can sometimes cross over the line in the other direction and even can sometimes be considered "jerky" on occasions. But I warn people who have potential for being recipients of my teasing/borderline jerkiness that I don't mean what I say half the time.

Congrats JRAND on your recent divination. :)

MBarnum I LOOOOOVVVVEEEE Christmas carols and like hearing them as early as possible (probably around when the stores start playing them in September! :) )

As for non-Christians' reactions to Christmas carols and other associated paraphenalia, when I took a basic overview on Judaism, Christianity and Islam, the prof. who was teaching the section on Judaism spent half a class going on this whole rant about how much he likes Christmas lights and thinks they're pretty and that he has been asked my reporters for statements regarding public christmas displays and what his reaction to them were and he has basically told them to shove off.

For some reason, that is one of the few things I remember from that very borin section of the course. He was a bad lecturer when he wasn't ranting about religious tolerance in the form of christmas lights. :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Emily on November 20, 2003, 09:56:11 AM: what is everyone's favorite christmas carol?

Mine is "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" but preferably sung by a HUGE choir.

Can someone with a better sense of music history tell me for my own trivia knowledge, I know that Mendelsohn wrote the music for HtHAS but did he also write the lyrics (which I presume weren't originally in English)? Isn't Mendelsohn a Jewish name? Hmmm....
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 10:01:40 AM: Favorite Religious carol: "Do You Hear What I Hear?"

Favorite secular Christmas song: "Silver Bells"

But I have so many that I adore: "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas," "White Christmas," "Sleigh Ride" (with or without words), "The Christmas Song," and on and on.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: William E. Lurie on November 20, 2003, 10:13:18 AM: The young girl in LIFE WITH MIKEY is Christina Vidal. I remember seeing her recently in some tv series but I don't remember which one.

Except for something new which I play as soon as I get it, the Christmas music starts the day after Thanksgiving. This year I got the Barbara Cook Christmas album and I am looking forward to the 2003 Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS CD which is due out this week. Of course my all time Christmas CD is A BROADWAY CHRISTMAS produced by this Jewish Guy with the initals BK.

Question for DRs: Can someone explain the difference between "model" and "supermodel"?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Maya on November 20, 2003, 10:16:30 AM: Emily--lol about the prof! I do love Christmas lights too....but some people take it WAY too far also...some people (oh a Styne and Sondheim reference) use enough electricity on their Christmas displays to keep Monte Carlo going for a few weeks.

BK--thanks for The White Sheik report! I guess a grainy, dark print is better than nothing though!

I think I may have seen a Criterion print of Juliet of the Spirits....now THAT was colorful!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Charles Pogue on November 20, 2003, 10:21:33 AM: Favourite Christmas carols: Good King Wenceslas; God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen

Favourite Christmas song: The Christmas Song; White Christmas; I'll Be Home For Christmas; and a cowboy Christmas song by Michael Martin Murphy, Corn, Water, and Wood
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Maya on November 20, 2003, 10:22:48 AM: Thanks WEL! Now the name registers.

Hmmm...let me try to explain the difference, even though I may be wrong...

A supermodel is runway, usually over 6 feet and has some degree of celebrity. I think regular models are not always that tall, do print more than runway, and aren't quite as famous.

And usually it's supermodels that are married to famous aging rock stars. Models just get the leftovers.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: bk on November 20, 2003, 10:31:23 AM: Hark the Harold Angels Sing is also an Italian Mafia Song. It tells the tale of a stool-pigeon named Harold Angels. It's very moving.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 10:31:55 AM: Unless somebody sneaks something in just ahead of me, this will be Post #7,000!!!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MBarnum on November 20, 2003, 10:32:29 AM: My all time favorite Christmas song is CAROL OF THE BELLS! I can listen to it over and over and over and over. My dream CD would be 25 different versions of CAROL OF THE BELLS sung by different people/performed by different orchestras. Maybe it already exists??!!! If so I want it now!

I also like WE THREE KINGS...can't recall the whole title just now.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ben on November 20, 2003, 10:41:05 AM: Well, here I am in our Cleveland office waiting for the car service to take me to the airport. Just wanted to drop in and say hi. I read all the notes from Tuesday where I left off and I read today's notes and posts. I will have to wait until I get home to read Wednesday's posts. We're in a postin frenzy.

Hope Jason had a nice birthday. I had a good work experience in Cleveland but can't wait to get home.

See you all later.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ben on November 20, 2003, 10:42:21 AM: BTW, Miss Jennifer, I thought you would catch up and surpass me during my absence. You are now above 380 in posts while I am stuck here at the 350 level. I must work extra hard tomorrow to catch up to you and work my way up to HHW God. I will check the stats board now to see if I've fallen out of the Top 10 Poster roster.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jay on November 20, 2003, 10:43:46 AM: Regarding jerks: I agree with the dear reader who said that what goes around comes around. I take great faith in the notion that jerks will eventually get their comeuppance.

By the way, anyone who pronounces "clerk" as "clark" is a jark. (Oh, a Rodgers and Hart reference.)

Call me a grinch, but I think the holiday decoration and music thing should be limited to the period between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Okay, maybe New Year's. One of the things I like about Nordstrom is that on the day before Thanksgiving, the store is "normally" decorated. You walk in the day after Thanksgving (not that I would ever, ever go shopping the day after Thanksgiving), and the store is beautifully decorated for Christmas. I, of course, overlook the fact that a gazillion Nordstrom employees must devote their Thanksgiving "holiday" to decorating the store. Small wonder I got out of the retail business years ago.

My Jewishness notwithstanding, I love Christmas music and own a fairly sizable collection of it. Some "Christmas" songs, of course, have nothing to do with the holiday, but relate to snow and cold weather. I would allow those songs to be played/sung/performed outside of the five week holiday period.

Thus saith I.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ben on November 20, 2003, 10:44:11 AM: I am now Number 8. I must work, work, work. When I get home, I will post about the notes. I will be leaving for the airport in about 45 minutes and I'll be blissfully home w/my Anthony at about 8pm.

Till then,

Bu-bye!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: bk on November 20, 2003, 10:44:33 AM: Onward towards 8000, say I! Let's get some postin' goin' on because we can't get there soon enough.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jay on November 20, 2003, 10:47:44 AM: What I also meant to remark upon in my previous post is the complete absurdity of walking into a department store or Hallmark shop on Labor Day weekend and seeing Christmas merchandise. What's the rush? Time flies fast enough, as it is. Savor it.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 11:02:04 AM: Quote from: MBarnum on November 20, 2003, 09:30:46 AM

At what point in the season do you break out the Christmas music CDs?

I always wait until the day after Thanksgiving. I have some friends who listen to Christmas music all year long, and some who don't listen to it at all. But I limit myself to the day after Thanksgiving and stop listening the day after Christmas. That is just the time that I feel the Christmasyest.

...And for those who don't celebrate Christmas, do you still enjoy listening to Christmas music? Or do you have other holiday music that you listent to?

(Also, I am NOT one of those people who gets all up in a twist about stores putting Christmas stuff out early...I for one LOVE to see the Christmas stuff out as early as possible...it is fun to look through. If I don't see the decorations on the shelf by at least October then I am mighty disappointed! Frankly I would be happy to have Christmas stuff on the shelf all year around...but the Christmas music I would get a little sick of if I listened to it all year round. Go figure.)

I'm not really a Christmas cd type of person. Although right around Christmas I will usually listen to it (like the day before).

Although I saw that there is a new American Idol holiday cd, which I must have.

I don't celebrate Christmas (being Jewish). Although I always help decorate my aunt's Christmas tree. And we always go over there for Christmas eve. We just give them Christmas presents and they give us Chanukah presents.

As for stores putting out Christmas stuff early, I don't think you guys in the US realize what we deal with (i'm sure DRs Emily and Andrea can confirm this).

We don't have Thanksgiving in November. So for us, Christmas season starts Nov 1st (the day after Halloween). All the Christmas stuff goes up then. It is quite remarkable.

They had the Santa Clause parade LAST weekend. And the stores are already (for a couple weeks now) full of trees and decorations. I find this crazy.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 11:05:08 AM: We need to get a woman to goddess status!

Congrats to our newest god, Jrand.

Btw, I think I must have been bad this week, cause I lost another karma point! :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Panni on November 20, 2003, 11:09:41 AM: This is my first posting since arriving in LA! I've been here a week and five days. All the boxes in the house are unpacked. The garage is another story. My sweet landlords haven't been able to put their car in the garage since my arrival. Today, after doing a few errands (including getting my filthy car washed), I tackle the garage. Isn't this incredibly BORING? Last night I had dinner with my producers at a lovely neighborhood restaurant. First meal I'd had all day and it was so good!!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 11:10:59 AM: Hmmm #5, I guess I am next after BK. I need to post more.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MBarnum on November 20, 2003, 11:11:16 AM: I think the reason that I enjoy having the Christmas stuff out early is that to me, being as I don't really celebrate Christmas as a religious holiday, Christmas is simply a time of joy and good will towards your fellow man...and the earlier that attitude starts in the year, the better! Particularly now-a-days!

As I worked retail for 13 years I can attest to the fact that one reason that the holiday merchandise goes out so early is that it gets shipped to the stores early and we (at our store anyhow) didn't have anyplace in the stockroom to store it all so it HAD to go out on the floor! There was just no other choice...and I was always a happy camper when I had the opportunity to unpackage it all and put it on the shelves!

Christmas-time is a happy, positive time to me and I love to wallow in it as soon as possible!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 11:11:54 AM: And I think SuperModels have X-Ray vision. :o

DR ARNOLD BROCKMAN - I was remiss is not adding Hruba to Mrs. Yates' name. Of course she added Ralston when she was introduced to an adoring crowd as Vera RumBum. Sort of like Nanette Fabray who changed the spelling of her last name - Fabares - when she was introduced for umpteenth time as Nanette Faber-ass. ;D

No Sinner-ama on Page One for me. :-X

I also love Sleigh Ride. I forget the name of my other favorite, but I will look on the LP when I get home!

(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0903/weihnachten/xmas-smiley-024.gif)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 11:13:20 AM: I'm with Jay, seeing Christmas stuff in stores and advertisements everywhere in September is most unseemly. November is plenty soon enough for all that. As for myself, I don't even think about Christmas until Thanksgiving has passed. I don't mind hearing Christmas music after Thanksgiving, but prefer it not be around before then. The little Christmas music I have myself usually doesn't get played until a week or two before Christmas.

Dealing with jerks, cretins, and supreme nozzles (not sure why, but I've long used the term "nozzle" for unpleasant people)... I pretty much just ignore them. Sure, I have plenty of smartass replies zipping around my head, but they usually remain behind my lips.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 11:13:42 AM: DR Emily - we are working on your slogan. But right now Canuckistan is making me roll on the floor.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 11:13:45 AM: Jennifer: What's this "we" business, kemosabra?

Get to postin' so you have the mostin' of all the fair damsels at dis address.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MBarnum on November 20, 2003, 11:14:13 AM: And speaking of Christmas CDs, I just picked up an Anderew's Sister's Christmas CD...that should be fun! Now I just need to find the Esquivel Christmas CD!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 11:15:14 AM: Did anyone happen to see The Bachelor or Ed last night? <Double sobs>. Very nice, both of them!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jay on November 20, 2003, 11:15:48 AM: Welcome back, Dear Reader Panni! And welcome to Lalaland!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 11:16:40 AM: DR Panni - Hooray!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 11:22:03 AM: Quote from: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 11:13:45 AM
Jennifer: What's this "we" business, kemosabra?

Get to postin' so you have the mostin' of all the fair damsels at dis address.

Yeah I guess I am the female with the most posts. But if I cannot be a queen, I want to be a goddess. I don't wanna do all this work just to be a god :(
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 11:23:50 AM: Hey thanks karma fairy for bringing my karma back up to 23. Btw, I think it was better when I didn't notice what my karma was. Then I didn't realize when it went down!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 11:29:07 AM: As for confrontation, well I hate when people are jerks. BUT that said, for some reason I like people to know that what they did was wrong or hurtful. So I often let people know.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: DearReaderLaura on November 20, 2003, 11:37:59 AM: Good morning, fellow dear readers.

Re jerks: I avoid confrontation most of the time.
Re Christmas: I am a Christian and very involved with my church. But I dislike the commercialism involved in Christmas. My husband is a postal worker, so Christmas always means he won't be home much during the season. However, I do like the decorations. And I particularly get a kick out of really tacky ones, because they are so funny! The last several years, DR Sandra and I have gone on short trips just before Christmas, and that's our present. This year we are meeting DR Jay for dinner and Plaid Tidings.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 11:40:32 AM: I suspect it is not wholly a holy trinity up here. An infinity upon which to post photographs - well deserved and welcome Jack. Someone to share those dogdamn chores.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: TCB on November 20, 2003, 11:45:20 AM: Quote from: Maya on November 20, 2003, 09:42:29 AM
One aspect though of the holiday season I do NOT like....the mall!!! Which reminds me *groan*...I SO need to start on my shopping....

Maya, spare yourself the headaches, you can do almost all your holiday shopping online, and a lot of places are offering Free shipping this year.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 11:46:39 AM: Thank you DR and fellow deity Tom from OZ.

DR Laura - many years ago in the Reader's Digest the true story was told of the couple who each thought the other had sent out the Christmas cards. It was December 21st when they realized NEITHER of them had sent cards. They rushed out and got a couple of boxes of cards, hurriedly addressed, stamped and mailed them. Returning home, the husband casually opened the one of one hundred left only to read the verse inside:

This little card is just to say
A gift you'll love is on the way!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: TCB on November 20, 2003, 11:51:36 AM: Quote from: William E. Lurie on November 20, 2003, 10:13:18 AM
Question for DRs: Can someone explain the difference between "model" and "supermodel"?

About two hundred dollars an hour.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 11:51:57 AM: With a box full of Christmas CDs in the house I do tend to play some of them at any time of the year. I have quite a few by pop stars such as The Beach Boys, Bobby Vee, Connie Francis, and The Ventures. The Cds of "Real" carols tend to be played only in the second half of December. The Christmas albums by "The Carpenters" would certainly be the most played.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MBarnum on November 20, 2003, 11:53:21 AM: Jennifer,
Once again I cannot fathom why someone would take away your karma, but I do try to get the Karma fairy to reverse the damage whenever possible! :D

Good karma to all HHWers, that is what I say! HO, ho, ho, ho, and non-commercialized and only slightly early, ho!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: William E. Lurie on November 20, 2003, 12:13:52 PM: One of the worst parts of the Christmas season getting earlier and earlier each year is the loss of much of Thanksgiving. We wanted to get some Thanksgiving decorations for the windows for between the time we took down the Halloween stuff and put up the Christmas things and discovered that the stores had almost nothing,,, although the Christmas decorations were on sale before Halloween.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Emily on November 20, 2003, 12:19:12 PM: You're reference to ho-ho-hos MBarnum reminded me of letter writing to Santa.

I don't know how it works in the US, but here Canada Post encourages children to write letters to Santa which they will "send along" to the big man at the North Pole free of charge. I remember writing these letters off every year to:

Santa Claus
c/o Canada Post,
North Pole, North West Territories
H0H 0H0

If you sent the letter off in time, you'd get a message (a form letter but I didn't know at the time) from Claus himself.

I was always very dissapointed because no matter if I wrote my letter in English, I would always get back a message in French (looking back the letters were probably dealt with by the individual provinces and this being Quebec letters were sent en français).

So, no matter how hard anyone tried to convince me, I was POSITIVE that "Santa" was actually a francophone. Didn't I know better than all my fellow children when we went to see le Père Noel at Cavendish Mall in a largely anglo area and the person playing him was ENGLISH! The outrage! :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 12:26:53 PM: A welcome party for Jrand:(http://)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 12:54:47 PM: Oh my, it appears we have a lull happening here, folks. Best not let it last, or we'll surely get quite the bitchslapping when BK returns from lunch.

On another note (Db), the snow has arrived in Central Washington. Oh yes, the white stuff is a'falling out my window. I have no problem with snow, but am sadly aware that it will all too quickly become a mess of slush.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 01:07:25 PM: Quote from: [size=2]JRand53[/size] on November 20, 2003, 11:13:42 AM
But right now Canuckistan is making me roll on the floor.

Who is "Canuckistan"? Your personal Rolfer?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 01:07:49 PM: My breakfast finished and there is no sign of snow here. A white Christmas in OZ - not unless we the earth shifts its axis I guess. Not only no sign of snow but no sign of a posting frenzy either.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: TCB on November 20, 2003, 01:08:13 PM: Quote from: Jed on November 20, 2003, 12:54:47 PM
Oh my, it appears we have a lull happening here, folks. Best not let it last, or we'll surely get quite the bitchslapping when BK returns from lunch.

On another note (Db), the snow has arrived in Central Washington. Oh yes, the white stuff is a'falling out my window. I have no problem with snow, but am sadly aware that it will all too quickly become a mess of slush.

Jed -- If the snow is falling out of your window, you might be responsible for the snow falling all over Washington!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 01:15:06 PM: Quote from: TCB on November 20, 2003, 01:08:13 PM
Quote from: Jed on November 20, 2003, 12:54:47 PM
Oh my, it appears we have a lull happening here, folks. Best not let it last, or we'll surely get quite the bitchslapping when BK returns from lunch.

On another note (Db), the snow has arrived in Central Washington. Oh yes, the white stuff is a'falling out my window. I have no problem with snow, but am sadly aware that it will all too quickly become a mess of slush.

Jed -- If the snow is falling out of your window, you might be responsible for the snow falling all over Washington!

Damn! You figured me out!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 01:17:41 PM: Aughghghghghghgh!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 01:24:48 PM: Put away your smiting wand Ron. You must have smiled a little. Dogs are merciful.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 01:30:12 PM: I pulled out my DORIS DAY CHRISTMAS ALBUM this past summer while waiting for a three CD collection of her LPs to arrive. I just wanted to hear her voice.

I really don't mind listening to Christmas music at any time of the year. I pulled out "Miracles" by Kenny G (a gift from someone years ago) and listened to it while cleaning the house a few weeks ago.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 01:32:05 PM: I will also watch A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS DVD at any time during the year.

DR Tom, what's it like to have Christmas with really hot weather? That must be different when everyone singing about snow and Christmas being white.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 01:36:13 PM: Tom from OZ - you are the Monkey's Uncle!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 01:42:38 PM: Quote from: Emily on November 20, 2003, 09:53:11 AM
Good afternoon/morning everyone!!

With people I do know well - like DR Andrea - I'm afraid that I can sometimes cross over the line in the other direction and even can sometimes be considered "jerky" on occasions. But I warn people who have potential for being recipients of my teasing/borderline jerkiness that I don't mean what I say half the time.

Yes you do.... I've had crying fits over emily calling me nouveau riche.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: SwishySarah on November 20, 2003, 01:45:14 PM: Hello, fellow Dear Readers! I'm home and I have read up on my HHW, and now I have to start my homework so I don't keel over when I get home from work.

Lots of comments:

MBarnum: My favorite Christmas Carol is a tie between "O Holy Night" and "The Christmas Song". They're both so soothing and pretty! I adore Christmas carols. A local station has already started playing non-stop Christmas music, and I'm addicted. They're the perfect songs! And re: Carol of the Bells: My show choir is singing a jazz version of it this year. It sounds REALLY good, it's def. my favorite song that we're doing.

JOSE! You're back! I'm going to see Camelot sometime in the next month, I'll look for you! You haz been missed, buddy.

Jennifer: Ed was so cute! Although I think Carol is a whiny baby, the proposal was very cute. I actually liked the one in the beginning better, with the ballerinas :). Tom Cavenaugh is hot.

About the Karma fairy: Does anyone else think it's "Cheating" when you post about how your Karma level has gone down, and you get more? I mean, it doesn't make me MAD (emphasis on this point...I am just intruiged), but it's just interesting that you do something, and the level goes down, you whine, and the level is bumped up. It kind of defies the purpose.

Re: Tacky Decorations: There is a family down the street who decorates their whole house, inside and out, for Christmas. People donate leftover lights and decorations, and they buy more stuff every year. You can see their house from a mile away, it's so lit up. What makes it better is when there's fresh snow, and they turn on the colored lights, their yard is like a candy shop.

*sigh* I adore Christmas. And YOU. *muah*

Oh, Maya, I am now the proud owner of a NOVA sweatshirt :).
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 01:54:46 PM: Tom From OZ: That was just a little steam venting...it has been incredibly intense here this morning, all by myself. All my other folks are out at a seminar in San Francisco today and there's been one fire to put out after another.

I'm almost out of here...have to get a flu shot and then I have a doctor's appointment

And it's all one-stop shopping.

Now if I can get out of here before my frelling phone rings ONE MORE TIME!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 01:54:46 PM: Quote from: SwishySarah on November 20, 2003, 01:45:14 PM
About the Karma fairy: Does anyone else think it's "Cheating" when you post about how your Karma level has gone down, and you get more? I mean, it doesn't make me MAD (emphasis on this point...I am just intruiged), but it's just interesting that you do something, and the level goes down, you whine, and the level is bumped up. It kind of defies the purpose.

Yup. As you said, Swishy, it doesn't bother me when we have this pandering for points, I just find it an interesting routine that's developed.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Maya on November 20, 2003, 01:55:26 PM: Quote from: TCB on November 20, 2003, 11:51:36 AM
Quote from: William E. Lurie on November 20, 2003, 10:13:18 AM
Question for DRs: Can someone explain the difference between "model" and "supermodel"?

About two hundred dollars an hour.

LOL, TCB! You're right...I really should do all my shopping online, btw! Maybe this year!

Andrea--I'd rather be called "nouveau riche" than a "nouveau bitch!" :P

Swishy--Three cheers for Nova Dame! Hip hip hooray...hip h...oh, never mind.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 01:55:32 PM: Hot Christmas Matt H. Not strange when you have had nothing else. We do sing "White Christmas" etc but I guess the holy Lands weren't covered with snow at the frist Christmas either. I have only spent Two Christmas days way from home in 58 years - one in Christchurch NZ and the other in London. There have been Australian Christmas carols and songs written but they just don't work for me.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 01:56:13 PM: I'll second what Sarah said. Sometimes the whining is just incredibly loud.

And nobody likes to be dictated to in terms of what they should or should not do with their choices.

Still, I like everyone here and hold no grudges.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 01:57:47 PM: Thanks Jack. We try to please and I knew you would know the source.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 01:58:38 PM: One of my dearest friends who's actually 37 years old ADORES those animated Christmas specials "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" (Burl Ives' voice) and "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" (the one with Fred Astaire's voice; not sure if I got the name right). These specials were introduced after my childhood and I never got attached to them. Are others of you BIG fans of these shows like he is?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: SwishySarah on November 20, 2003, 02:01:54 PM: Of course, I comment on everything BUT the topic du jour. I am usually a very passive person. VERY passive. I don't let things get to me, and I forgive pretty easily. But when people are being jerks for the sheer pleasure of making others mad, I have a bad habit of very quickly losing my temper and venting every problem I have with them. Sometimes this works, sometimes it doesn't. I don't understand why people become grouchy or upset or mean-spirited for no apparent reason, but such is life. "Why can't we be friends, why can't we be friends?"

Today in Biology, it was "National Biology Teacher Appreciation Day" (AKA his birthday), and so for an hour we blew up balloons, both the normal way, and with a helium machine, so that by the time the bell rang, his room was a giant sea of colors. There had to have been 200-250 balloons. It was awesome. Slightly dizzying (lack of oxygen), but awesome nonetheless.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 02:03:35 PM: MattH - The only TV Christmas special I watch is the one you mentioned earlier, the classic A Charlie Brown Christmas.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MBarnum on November 20, 2003, 02:06:28 PM: Quote from: SwishySarah on November 20, 2003, 01:45:14 PM

MBarnum: My favorite Christmas Carol is a tie between "O Holy Night" and "The Christmas Song". They're both so soothing and pretty! I adore Christmas carols. A local station has already started playing non-stop Christmas music, and I'm addicted. They're the perfect songs! And re: Carol of the Bells: My show choir is singing a jazz version of it this year. It sounds REALLY good, it's def. my favorite song that we're doing.

Swishers, does your choir put out a CD? When my niece Katie was in her Sprague High School choir I would buy their CD each year...still love listening to them!!

Quote from: SwishySarah on November 20, 2003, 01:45:14 PM

About the Karma fairy: Does anyone else think it's "Cheating" when you post about how your Karma level has gone down, and you get more? I mean, it doesn't make me MAD (emphasis on this point...I am just intruiged), but it's just interesting that you do something, and the level goes down, you whine, and the level is bumped up. It kind of defies the purpose.

Well, darn it Swish! That is the only way I can ever seem to get my karma points to go up! 8)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 02:12:47 PM: SOmeone earlier mentioned the new AMERICAN IDOL CHRISTMAS CD. I guess you know there is an American Idol Christmas special coming on next Tuesday night hosted by Clay Aiken. I have to admit I'm looking forward to seeing it. I haven't heard the CD and don't know what their song stylings will do to the carols, but I'm eager to find out.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: bk on November 20, 2003, 02:14:44 PM: So many people perusing yet so few posting. We need less perusing and more posting.

So, no one here deals with jerks and obnoxious people in anything other than a passive way? I know that's not the case with dear reader Ron and certain people on the Internet. I don't suffer jerks lightly either, and I tend to be laid back until someone pushes too far and then I'm afraid I'm just a bad bad boy.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MBarnum on November 20, 2003, 02:15:09 PM: Quote from: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 01:58:38 PM
One of my dearest friends who's actually 37 years old ADORES those animated Christmas specials "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" (Burl Ives' voice) and "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" (the one with Fred Astaire's voice; not sure if I got the name right). These specials were introduced after my childhood and I never got attached to them. Are others of you BIG fans of these shows like he is?

Oh, my gosh yes! I LOVE the RUDOLPH THE RED NOSED REINDEER special and I have watched almost every year since it came in 1964 or so...well, it might have been 1966 or so before I was old enough to really watch TV, but by golly from my earliest memories I have never missed it (exept a few times while I was in my 20s). I now had it on DVD, and I have the CD of all the songs!

The other Rankin Bass specials don't excite me as much, but I did await them eagerly as a child and I would like to see THE LITTLE DRUMMER BOY again one of these days. Yes, these were all a big part of my childhood!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: George on November 20, 2003, 02:24:26 PM: Quote from: Emily on November 20, 2003, 09:56:11 AM
what is everyone's favorite christmas carol?

Mine is "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" but preferably sung by a HUGE choir.

There are a lot of Christmas/holiday songs that I really like, but the two that I like the LEAST are "It Came Upon a Midnight Clear" and "Oh Little Town of Bethlehem." I don't know why I dislike them so much, but I really, really don't like these songs. And I haven't heard any arrangement to change my mind...so far.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jrand73 on November 20, 2003, 02:24:45 PM: MAD MONSTER PARTY
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Noel on November 20, 2003, 02:28:56 PM: Quote from: Tom from OZ on November 20, 2003, 01:07:49 PM
Not only no sign of snow but no sign of a posting frenzy either.

Don't you mean a flurry of posts?

For me to love a song, there's got to be a lot of emotion in it, and so many Christmas songs lack that; instead, they have obligatory devotions and images.

I love Christmas Dinner, which was recorded by Peter, Paul and Marry. It tells a story that makes me cry.

In a similar vein (femoral), I like the minor-key folk song Virgin Mary - Joan Baez recorded it - because I feel that woman really loves her baby. It's also kind of funny, because she's choosing a name. And, imagine, if, as an expletive, people shouted David H. Christ!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 02:37:47 PM: I like Christmas music, so I can't really say that I hate any song, but I think "Silent Night" has been sung to death, and I'm tired of it.

Love the McGuire Sisters' "Christmas Alphabet."
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jay on November 20, 2003, 02:45:00 PM: There's some good "old time" Christmas music on the soundtrack to ELF. And Zooey Deschanel actually does a nice job on "Baby, It's Cold Outside," with a dubbed Will Ferrell.
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Post by: MBarnum on November 20, 2003, 02:46:46 PM: To all you LEAVE IT TO BEAVER fans here is a touching column in todays OREGONIAN newspaper. It is about Stanley Farara who played Whitey on LEAVE IT TO BEAVER and who passed away in Portland in September.

http://www.oregonlive.com/news/oregonian/margie_boule/index.ssf?/base/living/1069247267223300.xml (http://www.oregonlive.com/news/oregonian/margie_boule/index.ssf?/base/living/1069247267223300.xml)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: TCB on November 20, 2003, 02:55:39 PM: Quote from: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 01:58:38 PM
One of my dearest friends who's actually 37 years old ADORES those animated Christmas specials "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" (Burl Ives' voice) and "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" (the one with Fred Astaire's voice; not sure if I got the name right). These specials were introduced after my childhood and I never got attached to them. Are others of you BIG fans of these shows like he is?

Well, Matt, I must have had a longer childhood, because I remember all of those specials fondly and still love them today. What annoys me about buying them on DVD or video is that, minus commericals, each one runs about twenty minutes. I can't believe they package each one separately and then expect people to pay $19.95 each to buy them. But Christmas is not Christmas to me unless I see Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol, The little Drummer Boy, and this other one that I can’t remember the name of, but featured the voice of Tammy Grimes…. Guess I am just a kid at heart.
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Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 02:59:46 PM: I certainly knew those specials were around as a teenager (and beyond), but I guess I thought of them as kid stuff and avoided them. (Not that there isn't plenty of child-oriented stuff that I love to watch even today.)
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Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 03:02:27 PM: Show tune Christmas favorites: "Being Lovers on Christmas Eve" from I LOVE MY WIFE; "Pine Cones and Holly Berries" in counterpoint to "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" from HERE"S LOVE.

And, of course, "We Need a Little Christmas" from MAME.
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Post by: Panni on November 20, 2003, 03:17:57 PM: Thank you for the welcomes back, Jay and Jr&53!
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Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 03:21:30 PM: Quote from: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 03:02:27 PM
Show tune Christmas favorites: "Being Lovers on Christmas Eve" from I LOVE MY WIFE; "Pine Cones and Holly Berries" in counterpoint to "It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas" from HERE"S LOVE.

And, of course, "We Need a Little Christmas" from MAME.

And let us not forget the shopping oriented "Twelve Days To Christmas" from SHE LOVES ME.
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Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 03:23:41 PM: If I get cast in that show SHE LOVES ME (auditions in basically two weeks), I'll be hearing that a lot. But as I'm not going for ensemble, I don't guess I'll be learning it.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: George on November 20, 2003, 04:04:42 PM: Quote from: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 01:58:38 PM
One of my dearest friends who's actually 37 years old ADORES those animated Christmas specials "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" (Burl Ives' voice) and "Santa Claus Is Coming to Town" (the one with Fred Astaire's voice; not sure if I got the name right). These specials were introduced after my childhood and I never got attached to them. Are others of you BIG fans of these shows like he is?

I'm 37 and I'm a fan...not a BIG fan, but a fan. After not having seen any in quite a while, they tend to blend in my memory as to which one is really which. But I do still like the (now considered primative) stop animation specials that I grew up with. ;D
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Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 04:08:03 PM: I shall be missing for most of the day but at least I can say Hello to François and Jose before I go. Hi Guys. Good to have you back where you belong.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Noel on November 20, 2003, 04:10:20 PM: Quote from: TCB on November 20, 2003, 02:55:39 PM
this other one that I can't remember the name of, but featured the voice of Tammy Grimes

I think that would be 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, another Rankin/Bass . . . which I don't recall ever seeing. But I love Tammy Grimes' voice.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 04:12:22 PM: Quote from: SwishySarah on November 20, 2003, 01:45:14 PM
Jennifer: Ed was so cute! Although I think Carol is a whiny baby, the proposal was very cute. I actually liked the one in the beginning better, with the ballerinas :). Tom Cavenaugh is hot.

About the Karma fairy: Does anyone else think it's "Cheating" when you post about how your Karma level has gone down, and you get more? I mean, it doesn't make me MAD (emphasis on this point...I am just intruiged), but it's just interesting that you do something, and the level goes down, you whine, and the level is bumped up. It kind of defies the purpose.

DR Swishy, I also loved the ballerina proposal. But the real one was pretty good too. I was actually all teary eyed.

Re: the whole karma thing

I am okay with people mentioning when their karma goes down, just because I like that there are DRs who care enough to give back what was taken away. I think some people feel hurt when their karma is taken away.

To me it's similar to when DRs say they have a problem/or a break-up/ or a bad day. I love that everyone tries to comfort that person. It makes me feel happy to do something that will make another DR feel better.
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Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 04:14:07 PM: Well, there was "Frosty the Snowman," but it was line animation rather than stop motion. "Frosty" is my friend's least favorite of those Bass-Rankin productions.
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Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 04:21:21 PM: Okay I gotta take off now. Sorry I can't add more posts. Maybe later.

I will add one more thing about what Swishy and others said about karma before I go. Does having your karma points taken away so often, make you feel like posting less? I come here to feel happy, not depressed. Just my 2 cents.

Have a good night everyone!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 04:44:47 PM: In addressing today's topic, I really do not like confrontations. As a fairly high strung person, I don't handle them well so I avoid them if possible. However, like so many others who have posted about this today, when pushed to the breaking point, I will deal face-to-face with the person pushing my buttons, and there will be sparks. Afterwards, I'm usually a quivery bowl of jelly, usually very upset and unable to concentrate on anything else. These upsets seem to happen a lot less now that I am retired, but even now, I try to avoid unpleasantness if at all possible. I'm not much of a scene maker unless provoked, and then, well, even I wouldn't want to be around me.
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Post by: bk on November 20, 2003, 04:54:07 PM: May I just ask a SIMPLE question? Where in tarnation IS everyone? No way we're reaching two hundred posts today. Of course, I'd be happy to be proven wrong. I think I'm actually gonna get out of here at a decent hour tonight. At least I THINK I am.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Maya on November 20, 2003, 05:07:41 PM: I'm here, BK...waiting backstage to go on as Lady MacD...luckily there's internet access!

Hmmm...clothes call? (Or costume call, in my case)

I'm wearing a ripped black lace dress over a green satin slip...there's a green ribbon around the dress, and I'm also wearing black sandals.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 05:19:17 PM: Quote from: [size=2]bk[/size] on November 20, 2003, 02:14:44 PM
So, no one here deals with jerks and obnoxious people in anything other than a passive way? I know that's not the case with dear reader Ron and certain people on the Internet. I don't suffer jerks lightly either, and I tend to be laid back until someone pushes too far and then I'm afraid I'm just a bad bad boy.

Ohhhh....you mean THEM!

I was thinking only of folks I came into physical contact with.

But internet MORONS, CRETINS and JERKS are too VILE to live. I have no tolerance at all when they pounce on the innocent and unsuspecting.

It's one thing when people are just incredibly mean and petty, such as can be the case at the Broadway Message board and All That Chat....but you'd have to read rec-music.movies to get a sense of where many morons touch base.

There is a degree of "jerkiness" at the Film Score Monthly Messageboard...and an ever-threatening eruption of bile from one particular poster there whenever the subject strays to religion or politics, both of which have this fellow on the extreme far loony right. Both topics are forbidden and result in instant banishment when it's perceived that the violations were deliberate rather than stumbled into. The man is a teacher at Wheaton and seriously demented.

There is also a newsgroup bully who is mean just to be mean; he's seemingly self-loathing so bilious is the crap he sometimes spits out at people for doing nothing more than making a simple statement that -- heavens defend us -- landed in this fellow's mail box unbidden, unwanted and unacceptable (never mind that he subscribes to the newsgroup to which this fellow posted).

And then he can be so pleasant. Truly a paradox, that one.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: bk on November 20, 2003, 05:28:20 PM: May I just ask a simple QUESTION? Where IN tarnation is everyone? Where in TARNATION is everyone? Where in tarnation is EVERYONE? Well, at least it's not our LOWEST day.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 05:31:47 PM: I'll answer Jennifer's KARMA question.

What gets to me -- what is really an irritant -- is the incessant CARPING about Karma.

When my karma wand is loaded, I have, several times, given it to EVERY single person who has posted at that time...all the way through to the end of the day.

I do it without SAYING I did it. I do it without wanting ANYTHING in return.

I have totally lousy days. I sit in my living room some evenings and cry. But I don't whine here...here is where I come to chat and have as much of a "good" time as I can. I don't enjoy it when someone asks for karma. I'd rather give it freely based on how I feel about something someone says, or offers to do for another, or simply shares with everyone some interesting tale or tidbit.

I love giving karma to a couple of folks who I think can benefit from seeing that people are rooting for them and liking them...not because they're unlikable, but because they don't post often and when they do, nobody throws any karma at them

I don't like it when someone sounds a rallying cry for everyone to give karma to someone who has just related some depressing news. Each time that has happened, I've already given that person karma. I don't need someone telling me I should be doing it.

I don't love the whining about lost points or about hurt feelings. I don't come here to hurt anyone's feelings, either, but it is not my place -- or anyone else's -- to say when and how karma is to be given or removed. No one has to justify to anyone else why they give or take away karma. It's a "choice" and no one has to defend making that choice. Also, why give anyone here the power to hurt your feelings?

I'd rather all my karma points disappeared than to come here and whine about losing them or suggesting my spirits would be lifted by getting more.

Do I notice when I get one? Yes. Does it make me feel good? Yes.

Do I notice when I lose one? Yes. Does it make me feel bad? Sort of.

But I'm not going to lose sleep over it, and I'm not going to try to make people feel guilty for exercising their freedom of choice.

Now I know other people feel differently about it, and I respect that.

But I have to also say that a lot of this is making me want to mistakenly click on "Boo" a few times!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: TCB on November 20, 2003, 05:35:31 PM: Quote from: Noel on November 20, 2003, 04:10:20 PM

I think that would be 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, another Rankin/Bass . . . which I don't recall ever seeing. But I love Tammy Grimes' voice.

Thank you, Noel!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ann on November 20, 2003, 05:38:11 PM: I confess that I don't have much Christmas music in my collection. In fact, the only CD I have that could be qualified as Christmas music is one of the Chanticleer Christmas ones. I do enjoy Christmas music as a whole, but I agree, it doesn't belong in rotation until after Thanksgiving. However, I've had "Let It Snow" in my head all day...since I woke up this morning to snow falling outside my window. (Note to TCB...it was OUTSIDE, not OUT...don't blame me for the snow :))
What is it about snowy weather that makes you want to blow off school work and curl up with a cup of hot chocolate and a book?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: TCB on November 20, 2003, 05:43:40 PM: Quote from: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 05:19:17 PM
Ohhhh....you mean THEM!

I was thinking only of folks I came into physical contact with.

But internet MORONS, CRETINS and JERKS are too VILE to live. I have no tolerance at all when they pounce on the innocent and unsuspecting.

God, Ron, I love it when you get butch!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MrMarkBakalor on November 20, 2003, 05:47:52 PM: Ron, my thoughts exactly. We've had karma for several years at Sondheim.com and it's a very good way to, in a very low key manner, give or take just a little bit of a nod towards fellow community members. One sided positive karma would be meaningless.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 05:51:23 PM: Quote from: TCB on November 20, 2003, 05:43:40 PM
Quote from: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 05:19:17 PM
Ohhhh....you mean THEM!

I was thinking only of folks I came into physical contact with.

But internet MORONS, CRETINS and JERKS are too VILE to live. I have no tolerance at all when they pounce on the innocent and unsuspecting.

God, Ron, I love it when you get butch!

Well, then, you'd love me first thing in the morning before I've had my coffee!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Maya on November 20, 2003, 05:51:28 PM: How cool is it, Ann, about that snow!

I have to say...I am very, very glad you guys have chosen to give me so much karma. And that no one has taken away any from me too. I love every last H/K, and to me, you all have limitless good karma.

*Group hugs everyone*
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 05:55:32 PM: Maya: Ditto!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 06:00:01 PM: OH! HECK! I forgot to bitch about something!

I had a doctor's appointment today, and before that appointment, I had scheduled a flu shot.

Well when I got there and checked in, I was "informed" that I also needed a tetanus shot and why don't we just do that one, too.

And, oh, by the way, you're "of an age now" (OF A FERSHLUGANAH AGE NOW!!!!) when you should get a pneumonia vaccination! And we can give you that one today, too!

THREE SHOTS! Count 'Em, THREE! My right arm hurts the most....and my left arm is sort of complaining.

Just a warning, my friends....don't let 'em gang up on you...or you might walk into a clinic expecting a checkup and get wheeled out after a colonoscopy!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: TCB on November 20, 2003, 06:22:13 PM: Ann: You are right about a little bit of snow serving as a distraction, especially if you live in Western Washington where snow is not that common. Normally I go through my whole day at work without ever going over to the window to check and see what is happening in the real world. However, today I must have gone over to the windows a dozen times to see if it was still snowing, if had started to stick on the streets, etc. Very weird.

In addition, I was so distracted that I never responded to today's topic. For the most part I also try to avoid confrontation. After all, my face is my fortune. But seriously, to quote the late thespian, Bill Bixby, "Don't make me angry. You wouldn't like me when I'm angry." Basically, I am a pretty easy-going guy, so I tend to try and ignore the jerks, idiots, and fools that I encounter on a daily basis. But, when pushed too far, and it doesn't happen often, I can really loose it, but it is almost always verbal rather than physical. However, there was that one Aussie I beat the crap out of because he tried to tickle my dingo.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 06:22:35 PM: Ron - I could not have summed up the whole karma issue any better if I'd tried (but I was feeling lazy, so I didn't try :D ).

Quote from: Ann on November 20, 2003, 05:38:11 PM
What is it about snowy weather that makes you want to blow off school work and curl up with a cup of hot chocolate and a book?

Are you sure it's the snow that makes you want to do that, and not the school work? ;)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 06:27:12 PM: Ha! TCB, how true about you "west siders." :D I laughed when I heard that some schools were cancelled over there the last couple days. In all my years in the Ellensburg schools, we only had one day cancelled for snow, and that was when 24 inches fell in 7 hours overnight!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 06:29:39 PM: No, no, no! God Ron!

Can't get a colonoscopy like that! One has to prepare one's body a full day in advance for that :P

I could make Matt H's remarks on how he deals with "cretins, morons etc..." mine! They get the WORST out of me and then I hate myself for not being in control...
I always try to avoid confrontations, but that ain't easy!

I'm crazy about Christmas music, pagan one more than religious one I have to admit....You do have wonderful Xmas songs in the US; far less in Europe!
I tend to collect it too; my favorite possessions are the two BK produced gems "Hollywood Christmas" and "Broadway Christmas", the three cds done by Dame Julie over the years (One with André Previn and the 2 others with Ian Fraser), one by the one and only Spike Jones, and the two terrific albums by the Carpenters that DR Tom from Oz mentioned earlier.

Btw, Richard Carpenter was very much inspired by the Christmas recordings done by Spike Jones....
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ann on November 20, 2003, 06:31:26 PM: Oh, and I agree what Ron said about karma...you have summed it up perfectly
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ann on November 20, 2003, 06:32:50 PM: As far as CHristmas Specials go...Charlie Brown is a must, of course. And my own personal tradition is The Muppet Christmas Carol. Nothing puts me in the Christmas mood like Kermit the Frog as Bob Cratchit, and Michael Caine as the best Scrooge ever...
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ann on November 20, 2003, 06:33:31 PM: Hey! I hit 100 posts!!! woohoo!!!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 06:39:47 PM: Karma stuff: meh... one way or another... it can hardly matter... however... if Emily's karma ever goes down... you know you did it!

Clothes check: heels, ball gown and tartan sash.... I'm checking to see if everything is alright for tomorrow of course:)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Emily on November 20, 2003, 06:40:58 PM: Re: Karma

While I understand that I may have been one the people who have bitched and moaned about losing karma (although I prefer to think of it as tactfully mentioning my loss!) I also get Ron and several other DR's points re: karma.

Frankly, karma discussions have taken up a lot of space on this board when we could have been discussing other more pressing inconsequentialities! :)

From now on, any karma movement on my part will be kept quiet unless explicitly addressed by another DR.

In other news...

I spent the evening watching SURVIVOR (don't worry... no spoilers Mark!) and eating way too much junk food with my sisters.

For all you Greek food fans picture the following:

a giant sandwich made of pizza dough for the bread and filled with homemade tzaziki sauce, gyro pieces, lettuce, tomatoes and onion. It took arghaaghrahghaarghagha to another level. :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Maya on November 20, 2003, 06:41:35 PM: Just finished with my scene. I guess there's about a half hour to go til the end of the play.

Thank you, Ron!

I so want it to snow. I want to go out and build a really malformed snowman as in days of yore!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Emily on November 20, 2003, 06:41:57 PM: Andrea is taking CYGOPP scottish country dancing tomorrow.

This could be defined as the climatic moment of their relationship... :)
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Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 06:43:19 PM: Raw onions, Emily?
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Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 06:44:28 PM: Quote from: Emily on November 20, 2003, 06:40:58 PM
For all you Greek food fans picture the following:

a giant sandwich made of pizza dough for the bread and filled with homemade tzaziki sauce, gyro pieces, lettuce, tomatoes and onion. It took arghaaghrahghaarghagha to another level. :)

There simply nothing to be said other than...

Arghaaghrahghaarghagha!!!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Emily on November 20, 2003, 06:45:39 PM: actually François, the onions were cooked.

Although the bad garlic breath from the tzaziki may explain why I have been banished outside of the family den and into my basement to brush my teeth :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 06:50:05 PM: Sorry, but for our French Speaking D readers :o
Arghaaghrahghaarghagha!!!
doesn't translate very well??? ;D
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 06:53:31 PM: On a sidenote.... I have too much karma! take it away! Take it away!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 06:58:26 PM: ok... I think I'm done my picture posting thing..

Naturally we all know why I'm doing this: Jed must be able to see my beauty everywhere he looks ;)

And Jed dear, I have know idea what closets you were talking about... the madames chaperoned us all the time!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 07:02:50 PM: Quote from: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 06:58:26 PM
ok... I think I'm done my picture posting thing..

Naturally we all know why I'm doing this: Jed must be able to see my beauty everywhere he looks ;)

Oh, how I wish I could, my dear Andrea, but I'm sadly seeing only those little red X's! :(
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Michael on November 20, 2003, 07:03:41 PM: Watch the restore version of Once Upon a Time in the West. I think it is a beautiful restoration and 5.1 sound mix will not obvious added to the watching immeasurable. After seeing the film again and I think for the first time in its complete form, I have to say that Ennio Morriconne is my favorite film composer. He is so different from Williams, Goldsmith, Mancini, Newman (all of them), Goldenthal, Shore, Horner, Barry etc etc. He has such a unique sound to his music score thanks to the unusual instruments and vocalise that are used.

One of my favorite moments is the scoring as a character is dying. When he takes his last breath the music momentarily stops with last exhale of breath and then continues. I thought that was brilliant.

Highly recommend this film.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 07:05:00 PM: ah... as do I see little red xxxs....

Mark... when you can draw yourself away from Maya, explain how I get no little xs?
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Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 07:09:20 PM: Alright.... here is me:) Hopefully...

[attachment deleted by admin]
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 07:09:40 PM: Jed? Does that work?
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Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 07:13:14 PM: Ah yes, much better! I can see you now, Andrea!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Emily on November 20, 2003, 07:13:30 PM: I see it m'dear
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: S. Woody White on November 20, 2003, 07:13:38 PM: Quote from: MBarnum on November 20, 2003, 10:32:29 AM
My all time favorite Christmas song is CAROL OF THE BELLS! I can listen to it over and over and over and over. My dream CD would be 25 different versions of CAROL OF THE BELLS sung by different people/performed by different orchestras. Maybe it already exists??!!! If so I want it now!
Be wary of the ground on which you tread. Carol of the Bells is a favorite of mine, as well. One time, when I was putting together tapes of Christmas music for the office lunch/party, I listened to perhaps ten different versions, back to back. Der Brucer nearly threw me out of the house.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 07:16:33 PM: Yeah! And now you all must suffer through another picture of my dearly departed boys, Reggie and Golden
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 07:16:51 PM: Wow, it looks like the All-Star Survivor will be put in a great time slot, February 1st right after the Super Bowl.

http://jam.canoe.ca/JamSurvivorPearl/nov18_survivor-ap.html
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: SwishySarah on November 20, 2003, 07:19:02 PM: Just got back. At least we've gotten to page 6. You people need to start posting more (says the girl that hasn't even hit 75 yet)!

Andrea: CUTE picture!

Ron and everyone else summed up my viewpoints on the karma thing wonderfully. It's not that I get MAD, just a little taken aback. Any karma is better than NO karma! And as a side note: it's only karma. Your life doesn't depend on it, and if you lose some, just keep telling yourself, "It's not real. It's merely a number on my computer. It's not real." We shall all be happy as clams. I've never understood that phrase.

Just after getting better from my never ending voice issues, I have a fershluganah cough. This weather needs to even out, because 30 degrees one day, and then 80 degrees the next day is NOT doing anyone any good. I shall go make myself content with JRB, which I have been neglecting.

Have I mentioned that you are all wonderful?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MrMarkBakalor on November 20, 2003, 07:20:15 PM: Quote from: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 07:05:00 PM
ah... as do I see little red xxxs....

Mark... when you can draw yourself away from Maya, explain how I get no little xs?

There will be no xxx on HainesHisWay.

I have no idea what you're doing. Are you talking about modifying your User Image or something else? If I know what the situation and problem is I'll do my best to help. But I refuse to draw, sketch or paint myself away from karmalicious.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MrMarkBakalor on November 20, 2003, 07:21:06 PM: Hm... it appears all is well and you seem to no longer need my help.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 07:23:06 PM: Sorry Mark:( But thank you for the answer... I know I don't make any sense.. and I don't pretend to:)

night all.

Tomorrow, this time, I'll be having neeps and tatties and Haggis!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Emily on November 20, 2003, 07:23:42 PM: Swishy if you'd ever get back on MSN I have some goodies for you to add to MP3 library :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Emily on November 20, 2003, 07:24:29 PM: Andrea will also be the only person at her Saint Andrew's Day Ball who will actually be looking FORWARD to the haggis

her kosher boyfriend will have issues :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 07:25:18 PM: Just want to point out that we filled up page 6 in only an hour! That'll teach BK to doubt our ability to hit 200 posts!

(Of course, I now realize that he'll probably comment shortly on how we're slacking and there's no way we'll make 300 today :) )
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: George on November 20, 2003, 07:25:51 PM: Quote from: S. Woody White on November 20, 2003, 07:13:38 PM
Quote from: MBarnum on November 20, 2003, 10:32:29 AM
My all time favorite Christmas song is CAROL OF THE BELLS! I can listen to it over and over and over and over. My dream CD would be 25 different versions of CAROL OF THE BELLS sung by different people/performed by different orchestras. Maybe it already exists??!!! If so I want it now!
Be wary of the ground on which you tread. Carol of the Bells is a favorite of mine, as well. One time, when I was putting together tapes of Christmas music for the office lunch/party, I listened to perhaps ten different versions, back to back. Der Brucer nearly threw me out of the house.

Woody, just curious...did you have/use George Winston's solo piano version? That's my favorite instrumental version, even though last week I ushered for a concert that he gave here in Olympia, and he DIDN'T play it. :'( He did, however, play his "Variations On The Kanon By Pachelbel," which was an audience favorite...that and the piano versions of the three Doors songs.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 07:27:22 PM: Great picture DR Andrea!

(for some reason EVERY single time I try to write Andrea I write Andrew instead).
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: S. Woody White on November 20, 2003, 07:33:33 PM: Quote from: George on November 20, 2003, 07:25:51 PM
Woody, just curious...did you have/use George Winston's solo piano version? That's my favorite instrumental version, even though last week I ushered for a concert that he gave here in Olympia, and he DIDN'T play it. :'( He did, however, play his "Variations On The Kanon By Pachelbel," which was an audience favorite...that and the piano versions of the three Doors songs.
Sorry, George, but I don't know that version. I'm not a big George Winston person. And I don't want to think about what der Brucer would do if I made him hear the song even ONE MORE TIME, in any version.

Getting back to decorations, what bothers me is how the holidays are getting confused, because they all have their decs up at the same time. I'm fond of the Christmas red and green, but it clashes with Halloween's orange and black. It seems to be a different kind of red than that used for Valentine's Day, as well (which will soon be running into the pastels of Easter).

This is the first year der Brucer and I plan on stringing lights, as we never did it at the old house. He's insisting that we wait until others in the new neighborhood are doing it as well. I'm tempted to run around the neighborhood, stringing lights all over the place, simply to get over my backlog.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 07:33:51 PM: Here are a few smilies to entertain:

(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0903/musik/music-smiley-023.gif)

(http://www.click-smilies.de/sammlung0903/linie/smiley-linie-005.gif)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: S. Woody White on November 20, 2003, 07:35:15 PM: And, before I forget, does anyone have a good recipe for jerk chicken? (The word deserves a teensy bit of redemption.)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ann on November 20, 2003, 07:36:12 PM: And I shall now kill half an hour in the computer lab before my concert starts. I am going to see the Chinese Acrobats that have come to campus. My dear friend gave me a comp ticket, so I figured might as well. But Tiana and I guessed the wrong time...8, not 7:30...so I here I sit...waiting...c'mon people, give me something to read to pass the time!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 07:46:26 PM: Oh DR Emily I meant to comment on your greek dinner. Sounds good. Love greek food. So can you share the recipe for the tzatziki.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 07:46:32 PM: Quote from: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 07:23:06 PM
Sorry Mark:( But thank you for the answer... I know I don't make any sense.. and I don't pretend to:)

night all.

Tomorrow, this time, I'll be having neeps and tatties and Haggis!

Because I "know" haggis, I will only say BETTER YOU THAN ME.

And because I "know" haggis, I don't even WANT to know what neeps and tatties are!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jennifer on November 20, 2003, 07:48:00 PM: Hmmm did anyone else get a good laugh when they read the news comments above: Are you posting or lurking? Are you lurking or posting? Instead of lurking why not post?

:)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 07:50:14 PM: Quote from: [size=2]Andrea [/size] on November 20, 2003, 06:53:31 PM
On a sidenote.... I have too much karma! take it away! Take it away!

Dang! Consarned it! I mistakenly hit Applaud! What an idiot I am!

Shucks and Tarnation! Now I have to wait three more days!

Shoot! Shoot! Shoot!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 07:52:58 PM: Quote from: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 07:50:14 PM
Quote from: [size=2]Andrea [/size] on November 20, 2003, 06:53:31 PM
On a sidenote.... I have too much karma! take it away! Take it away!

Dang! Consarned it! I mistakenly hit Applaud! What an idiot I am!

Shucks and Tarnation! Now I have to wait three more days!

Shoot! Shoot! Shoot!

Funny... I made the same mistake, Ron!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 07:54:21 PM: François: Comment çe va, çe soir?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Emily on November 20, 2003, 07:55:04 PM: Quote from: Jed on November 20, 2003, 07:52:58 PM
Quote from: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 07:50:14 PM
Quote from: [size=2]Andrea [/size] on November 20, 2003, 06:53:31 PM
On a sidenote.... I have too much karma! take it away! Take it away!

Dang! Consarned it! I mistakenly hit Applaud! What an idiot I am!

Shucks and Tarnation! Now I have to wait three more days!

Shoot! Shoot! Shoot!

Funny... I made the same mistake, Ron!

danggit I think I did it too. This is an epidemic. :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ann on November 20, 2003, 07:55:15 PM: Gotta love the quotes within a quote...
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Maya on November 20, 2003, 07:56:03 PM: Andrea--I love the pic...very cute!!

Jennifer--what a cool line of smilies. They're so...uh...multifaceted.

Quote from: Mr. Mark Bakalor on November 20, 2003, 07:20:15 PM
Quote from: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 07:05:00 PM
ah... as do I see little red xxxs....

Mark... when you can draw yourself away from Maya, explain how I get no little xs?

There will be no xxx on HainesHisWay.

I have no idea what you're doing. Are you talking about modifying your User Image or something else? If I know what the situation and problem is I'll do my best to help. But I refuse to draw, sketch or paint myself away from karmalicious.

*blushes* who meeee?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ann on November 20, 2003, 07:56:44 PM: Woohoo! A quote within a quote within a quote! Where will the madness end???
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 07:58:27 PM: Quote from: Jed on November 20, 2003, 07:52:58 PM
Quote from: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 07:50:14 PM
Quote from: [size=2]Andrea [/size] on November 20, 2003, 06:53:31 PM
On a sidenote.... I have too much karma! take it away! Take it away!

Dang! Consarned it! I mistakenly hit Applaud! What an idiot I am!

Shucks and Tarnation! Now I have to wait three more days!

Shoot! Shoot! Shoot!

Funny... I made the same mistake, Ron!

Dadgum it all, Jed! It happened AGAIN!

I'm terribly clumsy!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 08:03:51 PM: And now we've broken the 200-post barrier again!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Laura II on November 20, 2003, 08:04:24 PM: Hello all!

Re: jerks
Luckily I haven't met too many. If I meet some, I try to avoid them, and I avoid problems that way too.

Re: Christmas
I start listening to Christmas music in mid November. I'm not a fan of the almost overkill of decorations in the stores. I mean, you could find ornaments in August! (...I bought the Broadway collection ornaments from Carlton Cards then, so I guess i contributed to something I don't really like. :) ) Oh, Sarah, you mentioned your neighbors with the plethora of decorations. My neighbors (on the next street) have like seven of those blowup Christmas characters--snowmen, Santa, a reindeer. It's crazy! Oh and one time we shortcircuited our house with our porch decorations. Good times. :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 08:06:37 PM: Dieu Ron,

Je vais très bien, merci!

Il est 5 heures du matin ici, et je viens de manger du poisson préparé par Paul Bocuse!
Enfin, disons que son nom apparaît sur l'emballage mais je doute fort qu'il ait fait quelque chose pour ce plat!

Il touche simplement des "royalties" ce qui fait que c'est un homme très riche; il a même une propriété en Floride. Son fils y habite et travaille pour la Compagnie Walt Disney World...

Now, ain't you ask your question in French? ;)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Charles Pogue on November 20, 2003, 08:07:39 PM: My wife & I always decorate the tree to SHE LOVES ME. That and Gene Pitney...strange, these Christmas traditions.

Maya, be careful you don't miss your cue, while dabbling on the internet. We were never allowed to play games or cards or anything while we waited in the greenroom or backstage during the evening's run of the play. It had something to do with someone missing their cue during a spirited card game.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 08:09:03 PM: DR Ron, your message about karma stated EXACTLY how I've felt about it since the topic began being discussed several days ago. I have not added my two cents in one way or other about it, but you spoke my thoughts so eloquently that it would be sheer repetition to say it again. Thank you.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 08:09:21 PM: Well, I admit I don't follow it all, especially the parts about it being 5 hours till morning, and about your having fish "by" Paul Becuse, or the part about the son of someone who travels and works with Walt Disney World.

But I hope it makes you happy that I try!

:)

And you, dear François, may always address me as a familiar. No need for formality.

Cher Ron should suffice!

: )
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 08:10:46 PM: Well, I guess I should stick to french, right?

--- WHO said "yes"!?

I meant to type:
"ain't you SORRY you ask your question.... etc, etc, etc....
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 08:13:56 PM: All right...now we're cooking with gas. Things are picking up.

People are posting...and I just know that when I return in an hour or so, we shall be over 300 posts!

I can feel it in my shot-riddled, aching arms!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 08:14:02 PM: ok.. I know I said I was going to bed.. but I remembered a few last minute things...

If anyone gives me anymore karma, then I will give them karma.. haha! Take that you evil people!

well.. except for DR Jed: as my pseudo- HHW paramour, he is entitled to give me gifts

Maya: it's alright... you can pretend it's a secret... we won't tell anyone.

Haggis is good. I adore haggis... DR Ron, obviously, you ate bad haggis. And evidently you didn't do the proper scottish thing and drink before the haggis...

Neeps and tatties, are mashed potatoes and turnips.
I will also be the only one trying to get a kosher meal for CYGOPP.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 08:14:51 PM: in a quest to get to 100 posts...

We are thinking of renaming the dog, Silver to Taco. I swear, he answers to it.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 08:15:38 PM: Dieu Ron,

I was talking about the son of Paul Bocuse, the French world-renowned chef from Lyon...

The fish I had was a recipe by Paul Bocuse as well... See the connection?

What was this?.... fish?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 08:17:11 PM: I have not watched SURVIVOR this season (I much prefer FRIENDS especially since this is the last season), but I have followed each episode on internet chat rooms so I kind of know who the players are, especially the men.

Anyway, for the last week, CBS has been advertising tonight's episode as "If you think you know who's going home tonight, think again. You'll never believe who they're sending home."

Well, as I said, I haven't been watching but from summaries of each episode, I had formed an opinion on who I thought would be leaving tonight, and guess what. I was exactly right! So, take that, CBS!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 08:19:10 PM: DR Andrea,

If your dog is a dingo from Australia you should call him Taco Bill -- see last week's posts! ;)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MrMarkBakalor on November 20, 2003, 08:19:26 PM: Re: Survivor... I have Tivo. This means I watch most shows whenever I have time and feel like it. Some shows I watch soon after they're aired because they're timely. Survivor is one such show. However, I've yet to watch tonight's. So, in the interest of not blowing it for Mark I selfishly ask for a pause on Survivor spoilers for another hour or so. :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 08:23:12 PM: I was going to get a flu shot this year. Truly, I was, but when TITANIC closed, I caught a case of the flu. Now, I know there are thousands of kinds of flu virus, but I figured since I caught one of them already, I'd tough out this winter and see if I can withstand any more.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 08:23:57 PM: oh... Taco Bill-- or more fittingly.. Taco Jean-luc-francois-andre-marc-pierre-guillaume-frederique!

Mr. Mark.. is there anyway we can see when was the last time we gave karma to someone so we can keep the karma points a coming?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 08:25:26 PM: Mr. Mark, I was really trying not to say anything that would give anything away. I know how angry some of you got last week, and I tried to VERY carefully word what I was saying so nothing would be given away. If I did say too much, I most sincerely apologize.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MrMarkBakalor on November 20, 2003, 08:25:32 PM: Nope! It's not about keeping someone hopped up on karma. It's about giving it every once in a while when called for, either way. That's why I like my 3 day rule. :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MrMarkBakalor on November 20, 2003, 08:26:56 PM: No, no, no. You said nothing wrong at all. And if you had it's quite all right to do so, I should go away until I watch it. All I meant was to let people know I hadn't seen it and if you all are up to it I wanted to selfishly ask for any spoiler talk to wait until I've caught up. :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 08:28:20 PM: one more post and then I go...

One thing I love about this site, is that everytime I get confused, I can phone emily and ask her for the gossip
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 08:30:03 PM: Quote from: Mr. Mark Bakalor on November 20, 2003, 08:25:32 PM
Nope! It's not about keeping someone hopped up on karma. It's about giving it every once in a while when called for, either way. That's why I like my 3 day rule. :)

fine! [stamping my foot].. I'm sure BK will keep me supplied with a fix!

mutter, mutter, evil glare...

Speaking of which... BK feel asleep in the soup again...
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: MrMarkBakalor on November 20, 2003, 08:30:04 PM: This site has no gossip.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 08:30:45 PM: Quote from: Mr. Mark Bakalor on November 20, 2003, 08:30:04 PM
This site has no gossip.

no.... we're still in study hall dear:)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Emily on November 20, 2003, 08:31:51 PM: So Mark - the person who gets kicked off this week is.................

...sorry even I am not THAT mean! :)

Make sure you pay attention to the "scenes from next week" I need someone to gossip about what could possibly be in store!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Emily on November 20, 2003, 08:33:06 PM: I need gossip and this site simply is not accomodating me lately.

I think we need less torrid love affairs and more betrayals. Torrid love affairs are good and all but they are best when they lead to deeply rooted betrayals :)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 08:36:15 PM: I have some gossip. Something about Michael jackson that I'm sure NONE of you have heard about, but I'll just keep it to myself a little bit longer.

Really, to be serious for a second, is ANYONE surprised this has happened (AGAIN!)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: TCB on November 20, 2003, 08:41:13 PM: Quote from: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 06:58:26 PM
ok... I think I'm done my picture posting thing..

Naturally we all know why I'm doing this: Jed must be able to see my beauty everywhere he looks ;)

And Jed dear, I have know idea what closets you were talking about... the madames chaperoned us all the time!

I am grateful to learn that Jed is no longer in the closet.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Emily on November 20, 2003, 08:42:13 PM: is anyone else made very uncomfortable by the way Jackson looks (not to mention the charges laid against him...)?

While I understand the severity of the charges against him which are, if true, completely despicable, I feel less anger against him then pity.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 08:44:23 PM: DR Francois, I have to admit, addressing him as Dieu Ron gave me my best laugh of the night. SUch a simple thing to do, and it was hilarious.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 08:45:09 PM: Gossip:

I think Miss Vickie has been emailing love messages to Magnus while mentioning some nasty remarks regarding her master Dieu Ron.

She complains that since he is Dieu things haven't been the same at home!

She's planning to move to Oz but wonders if that's not too Wicked a plan!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 08:46:57 PM: [sigh] Now we're in for another barrage of Michael Jackson expose shows. NBC's doing one tomorrow night, and I'm sure the other networks will follow suit. I got sick of him last year when he had that behind the scenes show, and then NBC did a two hour "other side of the coin" about his plastic surgery, his problems with youth, his spendthrift ways, etc. NO MORE!

Of course, that's why we have DVD players and 300+ channels on digital cable.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 08:48:43 PM: Michael Jackson?

He's been kicked out of SURVIVOR?

NO?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 08:50:27 PM: SSSSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHhhhhhhhh!!!!

You're not supposed to give anything away. The show still has 10 minutes to run on the West Coast!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 08:52:20 PM: Michael Jackson and Prince Charles are an item??

You don't say!?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 08:54:20 PM: Sorry!
Mark sure is going to be mad at me!

Wait until he knows it's Maya they kicked out!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 08:55:38 PM: Then that means Camilla Parker-Bowles is, no, don't tell me! I don't want to know! (a Jerry Herman reference).
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: TCB on November 20, 2003, 08:55:47 PM: Quote from: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 08:14:02 PM

Haggis is good. I adore haggis... DR Ron, obviously, you ate bad haggis. And evidently you didn't do the proper scottish thing and drink before the haggis...

Neeps and tatties, are mashed potatoes and turnips.
If I went to a dinner and was being served haggis along with mashed potatoes and turnips, I would have to take to drink.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 08:57:10 PM: DR Matt H,
You must be kidding!
ME giving anything away?

I ALWAYS habe them pay! ;)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 08:57:47 PM: I'm wondering if Michael did one of his patented spins during his confessional speech at the end of the SURVIVOR episode. I missed that part.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 09:03:03 PM: DR. Francois, I'm sure they don't MIND paying. It's all about the company. :D
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: TCB on November 20, 2003, 09:09:21 PM: You know Michael Jackson really is a sicko. In fact, he is so sick that he is probably the only person in the whole world who would enjoy having sex with Camilla Parker Bowles!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 09:11:50 PM: Well, he and Prince Charles are welcome to her. Just let Prince Andrew come and play in my yard.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 09:14:55 PM: Well, the midnight gong has tolled for thee, er...., me, so I will depart. Look forward to media day tomorrow. Good night, all.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: TCB on November 20, 2003, 09:20:49 PM: Panni! It is wonderful to see you back online.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Panni on November 20, 2003, 09:26:51 PM: Nice to be back, DR TCB. I am SO tired. Lugged a huge rug home tonight. My place is coming together - very cozy. I was thinking of a thousand different things as I rushed along Ventura Blvd. Everything except how high the sidewalk was. I stepped, missed and took a huge fall. Aside from feeling incredibly stupid, I also hurt myself. Bruised knee, sore wrist. And there were witnesses. How humiliating!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 09:27:05 PM: How do I keep awake after a three and half hour lunch? My luncheon companions are asleep (and not with each other ). I read 5 pages of HHW that's how.
I shall need to paws now as Magnus wants to check his emails.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 09:41:46 PM: Don't know, DR Tom; it might be gossips but that what Meryl Streep "said"!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 09:43:33 PM: Quote from: Matt H. on November 20, 2003, 08:55:38 PM
Then that means Camilla Parker-Bowles is, no, don't tell me! I don't want to know! (a Jerry Herman reference).

Go ahead...say it!

SAY IT!

Camilla Parker-Bowles is really Charles's BOY FRIEND!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: DearReaderLaura on November 20, 2003, 09:45:36 PM: What I don't understand is why any parents would allow their children to go to the Neverland Ranch. EVER.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 09:46:28 PM: Gee, my senses are abusing me!

I swear I had read you mentioning dingos and neatly folded baby garments in your post DR TOM, to which my previous post is referring and then.... it's not there!

My senses are abusing me, I tell you!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 09:46:40 PM: Panni, I have not yet welcomed your return.

Welcome! Welcome! All are welcome! Step into the Light...errr...ummm....no, that's a line from "Poltergeist."

Great to have you back, Panni!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: DearReaderLaura on November 20, 2003, 09:48:41 PM: Welcome back, Panni. Sorry to hear about your embarrassing spill. Hope you won't be too sore tomorrow!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 09:49:44 PM: Folks who love England are called Anglophiles.

Folks who love France are called Francophones.

Could folks who love François be rightly dubbed Françoisaphones?
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ron Pulliam on November 20, 2003, 09:53:29 PM: Quote from: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 08:30:45 PM
Quote from: Mr. Mark Bakalor on November 20, 2003, 08:30:04 PM
This site has no gossip.

no.... we're still in study hall dear:)

Not everyone.... ;D
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Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 10:02:11 PM: I withdrew the comment as I thought no-one but Ms Streep would understand the comment. Wrong again!Clothing from the baby (a matinee jacket) was found folded! Clever animals dingos.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 10:04:03 PM: I am not in the study hall either. I'll go check the closet to see if Jed is still there.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 10:06:41 PM: Hummm... I don't want to argue with God... I mean Ron, but francophones are people who speak French...

The ones you quote would have to speak François which is the old French word for French!
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Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 10:08:21 PM: For the love of God I don't know the answer to that Ron.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 10:10:53 PM: Quote from: DearReaderLaura on November 20, 2003, 09:45:36 PM
What I don't understand is why any parents would allow their children to go to the Neverland Ranch. EVER.
I pity the man (?) but I share your view on the parents Laura.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 10:11:23 PM: Quote from: TCB on November 20, 2003, 08:41:13 PM
Quote from: Andrea on November 20, 2003, 06:58:26 PM
ok... I think I'm done my picture posting thing..

Naturally we all know why I'm doing this: Jed must be able to see my beauty everywhere he looks ;)

And Jed dear, I have know idea what closets you were talking about... the madames chaperoned us all the time!

I am grateful to learn that Jed is no longer in the closet.

Wow, it's news to me as well! The things you can learn (about yourself, no less) here at HHW!
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Post by: François on November 20, 2003, 10:13:03 PM: Trivia:

Do you know that the French name for Goofy (Disney dog, that is) is Dingo, which in colloquial French means "silly"?
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Post by: bk on November 20, 2003, 10:18:41 PM: Back from a splendidly splendid dinner with dear readers Jane and Jay, about which more tomorrow.

Well, blow me over with a potato, but you people, you dear dear people out there in the dark, have come through once again, and once again we have put all other websites to shame.

DR Ron: Can you please give me some karma. I am in need of karma and I thought I'd ask you because I'm so needy of karma right now and I think I shall whine and whine until karma komes a kalling. I agree with all that's been said on this issue - except - I think all bad karma should be directed in one direction and I think you all know just which direction that is.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Panni on November 20, 2003, 10:25:26 PM: Thanks for the welcomes DR's Laura and Ron Pulliam. I'm now going to put my sore body to bed. G'night, all.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 10:49:55 PM: Jose and Jason are keeping Washington time! I hope today has been better for you Jason and that Camelot is wonderous Jose.
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Post by: Jay on November 20, 2003, 10:51:32 PM: Indeed, dinner with Dear BK and Dear Reader Jane was a complete delight. BK was effervescent (was he ever wasn't?) and, as warm and as lovely as she is in her posts on this site, Jane is even more so in the flesh.

Interestingly, as we were leaving the restaurant, I could swear I saw Guy Haines pulling away in his car, but I only caught the back of his head, so I can't say for sure.
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Post by: George on November 20, 2003, 10:52:23 PM: Okay, so I'm a little bit late, but welcome back Panni and Jose!

And does anyone watch ER? OH MY GOD THEY KILLED... (I won't give it away, even though it's after the fact on the West Coast.)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: bk on November 20, 2003, 10:53:13 PM: I, too, thought I saw Guy Haines, but he was the elusive butterfly of love.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 10:56:48 PM: Whatever happened to Bob Lind?
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Post by: bk on November 20, 2003, 11:04:53 PM: I see perusing people who should be posting as well as perusing.
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Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 11:13:29 PM: Quote from: Tom from OZ on November 20, 2003, 10:56:48 PM
Whatever happened to Bob Lind?

Shall I be bitchslapped for asking... "Who the hell is Bob Lind?" ::)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 11:14:54 PM: Perhaps they are casting nets of wonder as they echo through the canyons.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 11:16:11 PM: A man of your tender years DR Jed should not be expected to know that Bob Lind sang "Elusive Butterfly" back in1966. Mr Lind was from Baltimore.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jason on November 20, 2003, 11:18:07 PM: Holy Moley, look at all them posts! It took me a long while to get through all of them.

Ron P.: Hear, hear! Bravo. And about the tetanus shot: Here's fair warning for you...you won't be able to lift your arm in the morning.

Oh, my God...I think I just saw a mouse run across my floor. I'm going to be really pissed if I see it again...

Today was better than yesterday and I expect that tomorrow will be even better. I'm excited for lunch at Benihana and whatever movie I choose to see in the afternoon. I will be seeing WONDERFUL TOWN tomorrow night, which is also quite exciting.

Here's something that's not so exciting... I got the movie soundtrack to GYPSY tonight as a sort of birthday gift to myself, and I must say--I HATE IT. Do we really need the Foley effects of the feet shuffling, dancing, papers crinkling, etc.? And could we work on some balance?? The whole thing sounds muddy to me and that disappoints me...especially for $15.99 (which was the sale price).

On a happier note: A very good friend sent me a $30 gift certificate online for Amazon.com, so I ordered three other versions of GYPSY on CD--the Tyne Daly ($5 Used), the Bette Midler ($1.28 Used) and the Angela Lansbury ($13 New). I can't wait for them to arrive. Now I just need the Bernadette version to finish off my collection. Many thanks to my friend for the great gift!

Tonight I also got Arthur Laurents' book "Original Book By" and Patrick Dennis' "Auntie Mame," which I've never read. Yay!

I got my parent's gift today. A box of Krispy Kremes (WOOHOO!), some packets of Kool-Aid (Whee!), some of their leftover Halloween candies and a gift certificate to the Gap (OH, RAPTUROUS JOY! How I need new clothes...) Now if only my grandparent's cards would get here...something's up with the mail. I still haven't received one of my NetFlix that was sent LAST WEEK!

MBarnum: Should you want them, I could send you some wonderful choral Christmas CDs. IM your snail mail address to me if you're interested.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Ann on November 20, 2003, 11:22:36 PM: Has anyone ever seen a Chinese acrobat troupe? I saw one on campus tonight...Oh My God...they are absolutely incredible. I didn't know the human body could be put in those positions! (get it out of the gutter, people...)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 11:24:22 PM: Forgot to mention Jed that I am reasonably sure that Mr Lind does not kow who you are either. No bitchslapping as it may become addictive. (to the slapper and the slappee)
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 11:25:59 PM: Why were these Chinese people in the gutter. Did they drop their fortune cookies.
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Post by: JoseSPiano on November 20, 2003, 11:26:21 PM: Thank you, DRs, for the very welcome welcome back. :D

Camelot went very well tonight - and, best of all, at least to the business manager - we didn't hit overtime even with a slightly late start and a long intermission. *It was the Gala Opening tonight, and there was a big cocktail party and dinner beforehand, as well as a champagne and dessert reception at intermission. There was a nice party in the Old Vat Room afterwards, and they actually had food left for the cast and crew this time! Usually, all the patrons eat it all up - FAST! - and we end up seeing if the garnishes are edible. But tonight, they kept bringing out trays of beef satays, chicken quesadillas and other assorted goodies. Unfortunately, there were no "adult" beverages available - except for a really sweet (yuck) champagne/sparkling wine - although some people thought it was sparkling cider since it was so sweet. Who knows? In any case, it was a good show and a great audience. *I also collected some good opening night presents, as well as giving out a few of my own to the cast and production crew. Press opening is tomorrow - although, we're supposed to have press in all weekend - double Saturday, double Sunday..... Boy will Monday be a true day of rest and relaxation. -Of course, because of Thanksgiving, we have a Noon show on Tuesday.... Boy, it's hard to believe Thanksgiving is next week!

*If any DRs in the Washington, DC area - or outside of the Washington, DC area - would like to see the show... I can arrange for house seats... I have no comps or 1/2 price ones left, sorry. Just e-mail me, and we'll get everything set up. *And if you get a ticket in the North section, you will get to see me make my DC area conducting "debut" in the final(!) minutes of the production.

In other news....

I finally got back some actual prints from my travels to Australia, Orlando, NYC, Chicago and LA - I took them with my digital camera, and finally did a MAJOR order from Ofoto about two weeks ago - 480 pictures!!!! Among them are my pictures from Melbourne, and my visit with DRs Tom and Colin - as well as Magnus and Fosca. And the pic from the Musso & Frank dinner in LA. Shall I go ahead and post them here? Is that possible? *And I also have to say that those new disposable black & white cameras take some pretty decent pictures - I took a couple of architecture shots in Chicago - great shadows! I also did a series called "The Disappearing Chocolate Box". ;D

Well, it's very late, and I'm trying to keep a cold at bay - the whole house here has been sniffling this week - and I need my rest. At least I get to sleep in (again) tomorrow!

Goodnight.

Oh, and I do love those Rankin-Bass Christmas specials - very catchy tunes - "He's Mr. Heat Miser, He's Mister Hundred and One." However, as I've mentioned before, I do love Mr. Magoo's Christmas Carol, and I was soooo happy last year when they re-released the DVD of it with a few extras.

Bonne nuit.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 11:27:15 PM: Now we only have Jose to delurk!
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Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 11:27:43 PM: And indeed he has.
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Post by: bk on November 20, 2003, 11:27:57 PM: May I just say that I love our little haineshisway.com family? May I just say that? Since I just did, I guess I may.
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Jed on November 20, 2003, 11:34:47 PM: Well, I had promised myself I'd be in bed a half hour ago, so I guess I really should be off. See all y'all tomorrow!
Title: Re:EASE ON DOWN LA STRADA
Post by: Tomovoz on November 20, 2003, 11:41:21 PM: Good Night everyone. Thanks for the smiles.