Wishlist For Pine Valley In '09

My original intent with this post was to do a Best And Worst Of 2008 retrospective. One glaring problem, I realized there was hardly enough positive to balance the negative out. That thought shot to hell, I decided to share my wishes for All My Children in the new year. The following are in no particular order.

That Brian Frons stop micro-managing AMC. Why must he have his little dirty fingerprints on every aspect of this show? While I know he's not entirely to blame for the abysmal shape All My Children is in, I can't help but think we may see a slight improvement if he let everyone do their job without interfering.

That Charles Pratt, Jr. respect and use the rich, amazing history of my beloved show. There's no telling how many lost viewers would return if they saw the history they remember being properly drawn on. Hell, the simple mention of a name from the past would be nice every once in a while. Just throw us a bone for goodness sake.

That the show refocus on veterans and core families. I've never understood why new characters are introduced and given airtime when ones that already exist aren't used properly or to full potential. It's time to stop treating vets like nostalgic props and give them the respect they deserve.

That someone new take over executive producing duties. The dingbat we have now doesn't even seem to care that this show is sinking faster than The Titanic. How she's kept working this long I'll never know.

That a select few iconic characters return in an effort to boost ratings and rectify horrible mistakes. If reintroduced and written effectively, Brooke and Dixie could generate much-needed interest and viewership. Come on, people. We've been screaming for these two returns so long that we're going to cause our vocal cords irreparable damage. Cut us a break already.

Last, but certainly not least, fresh blood on the writing staff. It's impossible to say just how much our little show would benefit from new ideas. You never know the magic that could come from giving an eager young writer his or her chance to run with the ball. I believe a new generation of passionate, educated, forward-thinking writers could mean the salvation of daytime. There's nothing without hope, right?

Excuses!

I am so beyond tired of excuses! People who make them up should at least take the time to make sure they're realistic. Everyday a different ridiculous justification for something that they're not supposed to do. If you're smart enough to admit that there are certain issues you need to address in your daily life, (such as making an effort to be on time more), designate time to work on them. I don't buy the "it is how it is" approach. I'm reaching the end of my rope. Heads are going to start rolling!

Rumors, Rumors, Rumors!

I don't know how much more I can take. Example. Everyone knows that Greenlee will bid farewell to Pine Valley in the next few weeks. When the exit was first announced, speculation began swirling that Leo would resurface in some form to help usher his true love off canvas. Now, with the departure fast approaching, it's looking more and more likely that Greenlee will suffer a fate eerily similar to her first husband. I have a question. Why can't characters ever make believable exits? Couldn't it be something as simple as Greenlee getting the opportunity to expand Fusion to another part of the country and leaving to make sure everything gets up and running smoothly? Why all the unnecessary rehash of history? Can someone please come up with an original idea?

I reported a couple of weeks back that Elizabeth Rodriguez was returning to All My Children as a contract player. Now, however, word is quickly spreading that the actress has been released before she even reappears. Is this to be believed? If so, yet another question arises. What would be the point of offering a contract in the first place? Personally, this is one rumor I hope is absolutely untrue. We need a character like Carmen to spice things up around our desperately boring valley.

How close was AMC to getting canceled earlier this year? According to industry insiders, the axe came dangerously close to falling on several occasions. That's all I have to say about that. Just thinking about it makes me want to cry. Life without Pine Valley is one I hope I never see.

Carlivati, Can You Hear Me?

For just about a year and a half now, I've been hearing soap fans, and industry people alike sing the praises of One Life To Live. Apparently, headwriter Ron Carlivati and executive producer Frank Valentini are miracle workers. In an age where the general consensus is that daytime dramas are on life support, the aforementioned gentleman have made their show must-see. Not expecting much, I decided to tune in and see for myself if the seemingly endless parade of accolades was deserved. One episode was all it took to make a believer out of me. Intense, sharp, intelligent dialogue, first-rate acting, interwoven, near-flawlessly crafted story, and lush sets make the hour set aside to visit Llanview a feast for the senses.

Carlivati and company show a great example of how important it is to have passion for your dreams and joy in your profession. These two men, along with a handful of others, if given the reins to do what they do best, could save daytime.

Merry Christmas!

Hope everyone has a fabulous holiday and cherishes the time spent family and friends. May Santa grant every wish you may have. Let us not forget the true meaning of Christmas however. Happy holidays to all.

Finally, Something Worth Watching!

I have to hand it to Raw this week, almost every aspect of the show was enjoyable. Such a refreshing change from the crap that's been forced down our throats for the past few months. The Race To The Rumble not going the predictable, stale route was a welcome surprise. Jericho and Punk had a fantastic match from bell to bell. Kofi Kingston is starting to win me over with the promise of greatness I see. But, most of all, it was incredible to see Trish in the ring again, looking as if she never left. I could do without the whole Michaels JBL ridiculousness, but nothing is perfect. Kudos to Randy Orton for being one of the best, most convincing heels today. Here's hoping WWE remains on track in 2009.

They Said It Couldn't Be Done...

As most of you who read this blog know, I'm a huge fan of The Pine Valley Podcast. I have all available episodes of the show downloaded to my Ipod. Unfortunately, not all are available for download through Itunes. The episodes downloaded from the website are not in podcast format and appear in the music directory, as opposed to the podcast directory. I called Apple to see if there was a way to make it appear where it should. They told me there wasn't. They were wrong. I downloaded a program to assist in the tedious process of switching the files to the proper directory and everything is good now. Don't always believe someone when they say something can't be done. Exhaust all options before giving up. I'm glad I did.

Storrn Watch!

Okay, so we're supposedly getting a giant storm this weekend. I've heard up to sixteen inches. I've already taken the necessary precautions and will have a house guest for the night just in case the roads are too treacherous for driving. I was a bit apprehensive at first, but then realized it was my only choice in the matter. We'll make it fun with movies, music and popcorn. I hope everyone stays safe and warm.

New Ipod!

Yesterday, my friend Tess asked if I'd be interested in trading my GPS for her 80 gig Ipod. After checking with my mom (because she's the one who bought me the GPS and I didn't want to offend her), the trade was made. I'm so happy. Now I can finally have one Ipod for podcasts, and one for music. I transferred all my music from one to the other yesterday, and now I'm downloading all the podcasts. Now I can have a complete collection of Daytime Confidential, Between The Ropes, and The Pine Valley Podcast. Oh happy day!

Gingerbread House Goodness!

A while back, I picked up a gingerbread house kit on the cheap. It sat unmade for weeks until the idea to make it with the nephews was proposed. Harry was so excited to build the "gingerbread cookie house" that I couldn't help but laugh. It was great fun and when you include Bob The Builder and a takeout lunch, nothing's better. Here's the end result.

Time To Breathe...

The semester is officially over. I can finally take a deep breath. No more nightmares about the physical structure of Eurasia. Thank God!

Rodriguez Inks Deal!

I'm doing the happy dance! Word is making the rounds that Elizabeth Rodriguez has signed on the dotted line with AMC. Apparently, much-missed Carmen will resurface in the first week of January, just in time for All My Children to celebrate its 39th anniversary. Though the specifics of the deal are unknown at this time, it is believed to be long-term. Hopefully, Carmen will finally be fleshed out and Ms. Rodriguez will be given a respectable storyline worthy of her great talent.

Rent At Durfee...

I was delighted when my friend Kyle asked me to join him in seeing the opening night of Rent at Durfee High School. Drawing on a history of miserable school productions, I went in assuming the worst. Thankfully, I was pleasantly surprised. The set was beautifully done and could easily rival a professional production, the students fit their roles nicely, and acting and voices were fairly convincing. I had to remind myself several times that the show was not able to be fully explored due to school restriction. That aside, it was an enjoyable experience with a great effort put forth by all. My favorite part of the night--getting to spend time with a good friend and catch up.

Holiday Spirits

I was introduced to Straight No Chaser entirely by accident earlier this week while visiting my sister's blog. Their comic version of The Twelve Days Of Christmas had me in stitches. More than the comedy however, I was amazed at how incredible they sounded. It's difficult to even put into words how beautiful their voices are. I was lucky enough to find a copy of their new release Holiday Spirits and can't say enough good about it. Every song is sung perfectly. It sounds like there's a party in your speakers with every track. It's absolutely impossible to not get caught up and have fun while listening. Holiday Spirits is an instant classic! You'd be hard-pressed to find a better holiday album anywhere! Flawless! A must own!

Nice Visit...

My sister came over yesterday to help me pick out my classes for next semester and make my schedule. She was nice enough to bring lunch. I challenge anyone reading this to find a more enjoyable lunch than a spicy linguiça roll from Carmen's Bakery. Absolute heaven! It took a while, but I finally decided to take Introduction To Algebra and Child Development. There were a couple of writing courses offered that sounded interesting but I didn't want to get too bogged down with all difficult classes. Can't wait till this semester is done and I can give my brain a break before taking on something new. Quick thanks to my sister for helping and for taking an awesome picture of my Christmas tree. I'll post later for everyone to see.

Christmas Shopping Done!

I finally finished yesterday. It's nice to not have to worry until the last minute like I did last year. I hope everyone likes what they get. Wish things weren't so expensive so I could do more. Happy I had the money to pick a name off the giving tree and contribute. I just realized I'm rambling. That's all for now.

A Whale Of A Good Time!

Sunday was a nice, relaxing day at the farm. Watching the nephews play and get into everything is always the highlight of my week. Harry has recently discovered that he can ride Uncle Regis' "loader" and is loving it. It's nice that I can keep one of the two little monsters occupied and be an extra pair of eyes. Harry was very excited to eat the Nemo snacks I got for William and he to share. A nice visit from Alissa and Landon was the perfect end to a wonderful day.

Cutting Room Floor?

I've noticed something of late. All My Children is neglecting to show us important moments. Example. Instead of seeing a confrontation between Erica and Annie, we're shown an Erica being rushed into emergency surgery. Instead of joining the tale of Bianca and Reese's romance from the outset and investing in the two as a couple, we're supposed to swallow them being soulmates without evidence. How can the idiots in charge not see that the missing storytelling makes much more interesting television then what's on screen? Neglecting to include pivotal moments of storyline advancement is stupidity at its worst. Unforgivable mistakes like the ones listed above would have never slipped past Agnes Nixon and her team. Oh, how I long for the good old days.

Quote Of The Moment...

"Don't go making all these promises you know you cannot keep. There's a time to play the king and a time to be a thief. If you're making all these promises you know you cannot keep, you know time will be the thief and your fallen king will end up alone."

Promises-Savage Garden

Down To The Wire...

The semester is done in a little over a week. Time for stress to start settling in. I have no idea how I'm going to finish five quizzes, an hour exam, and a final. Maybe if I just keep telling myself that it will be over before I know it my head won't explode. Send positive thoughts and good luck wishes my way.

Patience Wearing Thin...

Okay, so this may have been cute a year ago when she was tiny and couldn't do much damage. This year is a completely different story. In her quest to suck up all the heat the tree holds because of the lights, she's busted almost every ornament I own. The only ones unscathed thus far are those made of paper. I can't even look at her without getting angry. It's pretty sad when you can't fully enjoy your favorite time of year because of a cat.

Music Music Music

John Barrowman's latest offering, Music Music Music is a mixed bag. Thankfully, vocals are strong throughout. My biggest problem with this album lies in song selection. As is the case with every other solo effort in Mr. Barrowman's catalog of releases, hardly any original material is present. There are only so many times one can listen to a newly-orchestrated version of I Am What I Am. Is an amazing voice enough to go out and purchase an album consisting mostly of retreads? This one is definitely for hardcore fans only.

Rockin' The Do!

Okay, so maybe there's not much of a do to rock. I figured this look would be a nice early Christmas present for my mom. The mohawk is officially on hiatus. It was time for a change.

Debt Free!

The day has finally come. No more credit card bill. It took a long time, but it definitely feels good. I officially own everything in my apartment! I'm actually contemplating cutting up the card all together. Haven't quite decided. I'll be happy to start living a little easier now. No more foolish, unnecessary purchases. Life is good!