If This Had Been An Actual Emergency...

Okay, so I'm sitting here reading just now and the emergency alarm goes off. Most of the time when this happens, management comes over the intercom to let us know that it's just a test and not to worry. No word from them this time. So, after sitting for a minute debating what to do, I go out in the hall. All the doors have closed, leaving me nowhere to go. Fortunately, a gentleman coming through in search of an elevator was kind enough to hold the door and let me pass.

Once on the other side, a fellow resident told me that the elevators would be shut down if this were indeed an emergency. Not knowing what else to do, I came back into my apartment and continued to do what I was before the interruption. As it turns out, the alarm stopped moments after, and everything seems okay. Here's my question. Let's say this was for real. How exactly am I supposed to find my way to safety? I'm alone the majority of the day, we've already established the elevators are a no-no in these situations, and the stairs aren't an option for me. What people have rescue priority? How long would it take someone to get to me? Would it be too late?

Yes, I'd like to think that a solution to every possible scenario has been thought of. I can't be the only one who is concerned about this. Wouldn't you think that some sort of memo or pamphlet detailing answers to these questions would be available to residents? I honestly don't think anyone would let harm come to us. All I'm saying is that it would be nice to know what's going on so that our minds could be at ease.

In 2010...

We'll call these a list of goals I hope to accomplish in the coming year.

Better Diet: While marked improvement was made in 2009, things can always get better.

Lose Weight/Exercise: Yes, I know. I'm not obese or anything, but I'm not quite happy with where I'm at either. I figured these two go hand in hand and, let's face it, improving my overall health is a win-win.

Write More: I'm not just talking silly blog stuff either. Writing has always been a great way for me to express emotion. When I get around to/feel inspired to do it, I'm usually pleased with the results. The thing is, if I want to shape this passion into a career of some sort, I have to commit to the creative process.

More Live Wrestling: The attending live events aspect of my life's passion has fallen by the wayside in the last five years and must be remedied. Nothing makes me feel more alive. Nothing.

Learn More About God: It's very simple. I want to devote a good portion of my time to learning about the being who is responsible for everything in existence.

Letting Go: 2009 was the first year that, with the support of some amazing people, I was finally able to start living life in the present. While a part of certain people will always live on in me, I resolve to tuck the past into a quite little corner of myself where it belongs.

Only Reason To Watch!

Melissa Claire Egan as Annie on All My Children stands alone. The courtroom scenes were flawless. I don't think I've ever seen an actress so committed to her character. Melissa Claire is a rarity in this dying industry. No matter what horseshit, turkey material she is given, you can't look away. I'll remember those courtroom scenes for years to come. Absolute and total perfection!

The Professional Wrestler In The World Of Sports Entertainment

Ever dreamed of becoming a professional wrestler? Thank Matt Murphy for writing this step-by-step guide of dos, don'ts and breaking in. One of the first things I noticed when starting to read this book is the great amount of respect with which Matt treats his audience. Unfortunately, more often then not when picking up a wrestling-themed book, it becomes obvious fairly quickly that the author is under the mistaken impression that the person who shelled out good money to buy his work is of below average intelligence. No worry of that here. Everything is on the level.

The Professional Wrestler In The World Of Sports Entertainment is inspiring, and dangerously close to perfection. Buy it! Buy it! Buy it!

Continuing The Tradition...

Yay for another gingerbread house! Very pretty, don't you think? Enjoyed making it with the nephew, sister, and mom. While the little man scooping the frosting into his mouth made me kind of queasy, it was definitely cute. Hope we do this every year forever.

Disappointing Finale...

I know I'm a little late, but it's time to weigh in on the season finale of So You Think You Can Dance. While I think Russell was very deserved of all the applause and praise he got, Jakob should have been given the winning crown hands down. I felt privileged to watch this master perform every week. As upset as I was with the end result, Rebecca pointed something out to me. The winner of the competition is named America's Favorite Dancer, not America's Best Dancer. Either way, I'll make the same prediction for Jakob as I did Legacy. His future in the world of dance is secure, bright, and ripe with possibility.

Quote Of The Moment...

Matt Striker:

Look at Randy Orton, all serpentine like.....

Regis:

Serpentine? Sounds like an STD...

Never Thought I'd See The Day!

I'm officially canceling my Randy Orton Fan Club membership. I'm so sick of it all. The monotone delivery, never winning a match clean, the same old speeches. I'm not denying the guy has talent. When the rare opportunity arises where he chooses to have a fair match and showcase his skill, it's obvious you're watching a Hall Of Fame bound superstar. Watching practically the same shit week in, week out, makes me want to rip my eyes from their sockets. Jericho and CM Punk are working on my last nerve too. Get these guys off TV for a while. Let them recharge their batteries creatively. Maybe, if they go away for a while, when they eventually return, I'll have a fresh perspective. Right now though, they're all dangerously close to getting the wrong kind of heat from me.

Yes, Tim. It finally happened.

Sent Packin'!

Jonathan "Legacy" Perez was voted off So You Think You Can Dance this week. Just wanted to make this quick post to acknowledge how inspirational he has been. The amount of growth and dedication is wonderful to see. If he chooses to continue walking this path, big things await him. We definitely haven't seen the last of Legacy.

Larson Making The Move!

Soaps In Depth is reporting that Jill Larson has been offered, and has accepted contract status at All My Children. You can never have enough Opal. I can't wait to see what kind of trouble she gets herself into. Hopefully a huge storyline is planned.

Palmer!

James Mitchell will return to All My Children as Palmer Cortlandt for the 40th anniversary celebration on January 5, 2009. Though only for a one or two day stint, it will be great to see this powerhouse actor and legendary character.

Sleepy Boy!

Someone was definitely tired when he came to visit Uncle Reeg last week. Don't be fooled, he was awake within minutes and reeking havoc. Just kidding. This sleeping angel is absolutely adorable.

Not So Fast...

Conflicting reports everywhere! News of the search for a new Amanda was premature. Reps for All My Children went to the press yesterday to let everyone know that Chishell Stause will remain with the show and insisted that recent recast rumors were false. Fingers crossed. I hope it's true.

Astounding!

Julie Pinson should be teaching a masterclass in acting. She was simply amazing as Janet on As The World Turns this week. The confrontation with Jack right before he decides to leave was some of the most amazing stuff I've seen in a long time. Julie gives 110 percent to absolutely everything she does and is inspiring to watch. I think Pinson must mean perfection in another language.

So Long, Oakdale!

We Love Soaps' Roger Newcomb has just broken the news that As The World Turns has been canceled! Even though we all knew it was probable, there are no words to express my deep sadness. Another one gone. I... I...

The final episode will air in September 2010.

Search For New Amanda Begins...

Apparently, we've all been lied to again. Several reputable sources are reporting that All My Children has begun searching for someone to assume the role of Amanda Dillon. This in spite of the fact that current portrayer, Chishell Stause has expressed interest in continuing. How can TPTB make such ridiculous decisions and still have jobs? I just don't understand.

Wittrock Sticking Around...

Oh, joy! Yet another useless newbie has been given a contract. Finn Wittrock will continue to pollute our screens as Damon. What exactly is the point of this? I thought the incoming regime was supposed to be cleansing Pine Valley of the unnecessary garbage plague.

Turning Back The Clock Of Time...

I enjoyed Raw a lot this week. The three-hour Thanksgiving extravaganza was very well put together. Not going to waste time going match by match, but did love the premise of the evening. More accurately, I loved it until Randy Orton was thrown into the mix. The guy needs a break to revitalize, and us fans desperately need one from The Legend Killer.

Speaking of a long-overdue break, DX is wearing on my last nerve. How much longer is this ridiculous shit going to continue? The perfect opportunity to make something memorable out of what transpired at Survivor Series was totally blown. I can't take much more.

While it was definitely too early for such a big push, Sheamus winning the battle royal was a very welcome surprise. Hope he proves worthy by delivering a solid main event with Cena.

Village Vanguard Release Date!

February 2, 2010 is the official release date for The Village Vanguard concert. So exciting! More soon...

Smart Decision!

Lorraine Broderick has snagged the headwriting position at All My Children. Such amazing news! Given her storied history with the show, and reputation for Emmy-winning material, I couldn't be more thrilled. While I'm definitely excited, speculation has the position being temporary. It's rumored that a permanent successor will be found when the turmoil from the move to LA has subsided. Please, use some intelligence and let the woman's track record speak for itself.

Christmas Tunes!

Thought I'd make the blog a little more festive by adding some Christmas music for the season. Some great songs on the playlist. I hope you all enjoy! Merry, merry!

MCE Rocks My Socks!

In the world of soaps, there was only one standout for me this week, Melissa Claire Egan as Annie on All My Children. This craptastic murder mystery has gone on way too long, and is so atrocious that the actors and actresses involved have given up. Except for Melissa Claire. She gives one hundred plus percent to everything she is involved in. While the writing was beyond terrible, the scenes where Annie broke down after being discarded by Adam were phenomenal. MCE is the only reason I continue to watch this show. I hope Annie never leaves Pine Valley.

I actually have an honorable mention. I have to give it up to Brian Frons for finally coming to his senses and firing Charles Pratt, Jr. Hallelujah!

Hallelujah!

What a thing to be thankful for this holiday! Charles Pratt, Jr. has officially been ousted as AMC headwriter! All right, I know it's inevitable. With the record of TPTB, people are wondering who will be brought in as a replacement. Myself, I'd like to rejoice in this news for a while before my head starts spinning with possibilities. Just let me take it in!

Hagner OUT!

It is with a heavy heart that I report the news of Meredith Hagner leaving As The World Turns. As if she hasn't already been through enough, the rumored exit story has Liberty dying of cancer. Meredith tapes her final scenes in early December.

The Directors: Barbra Streisand

As you've probably deduced, this documentary details the directorial efforts of Barbra Streisand. An in-depth analysis of each of the three films is given. The highpoint of this offering is most certainly the candid behind-the-scenes glimpse Barbra gives us through sharing her experiences and stories. Costars and other Streisand fixtures make brief appearances as well.

Of special features, there are none. Audio and video quality are quite good. Whether you want a quick lesson on the ins and outs of directing, or just take a look because it's Barbra related, this DVD is very enjoyable.

Quote Of The Moment...

"A cynical, mercenary press will, in time, produce a people as base as itself."

-Joseph Pulitzer

Village Vanguard DVD!

Just when I was sure things on the Barbra front were set to quiet for a while, word comes that her Village Vanguard performance from a couple of months ago will find its way to DVD in the first quarter of 2010. Keep in mind though, no official date has been given, and even when given, can change on a dime. Check back frequently for updates.

Big Returns For 40th!

All My Children is pulling out the big guns for their 40th anniversary celebration. In addition to the previously mentioned return engagements of Hayley and Mateo, Maria, Lily, Nina, Bianca, and Brooke will drop in as well. Wouldn't it be awesome if some of these people stuck around for a while?

Love Is The Answer Certified Gold!

Love Is The Answer, Barbra's latest offering, has officially been certified gold. This is great news and very well deserved. Congratulations! Now, let's keep our fingers crossed for Platinum!

Quote Of The Moment...

"Beneath it all I know that, looking back, I lived on your laughter."

-Without Your Love-Barbra Streisand

What The Fuck???!!!

I feel like a broken record! Don't say you're going to do something and not follow through! Do I have a sign on my head that says stupid or gullible? Why is it so difficult to be honest? Anyone who knows me, knows I prize honesty above all else. Almost as bad as saying things just because you think that's what I want to hear, is making up ridiculous excuses when asked about the blowoff later. Just be truthful! It's really not that hard!

Welcome Back, Maura!

Y'all guessed it. My outstanding star this time out is none other than Maura West. Carly returned from rehab to see her entire world turned upside down. If I had to pick one scene, the hotel room confrontation between Craig, Rosanna, and Carly would be it. There are few people in this dying genre known as Daytime Drama that bring it everytime they're on my screen. Maura West dominated from start to finish. Honestly, I forgot there were other people in the room. Amazing! Running the gamut of emotion convincingly isn't easy, and is often done poorly. Maura hit it out of the park. Even after that mouthful, I'll admit she was my choice just for showing up.

High-Def "Doc" Coming!

Barbra's classic '70s comedy What's Up Doc? is being prepped for Blu-ray. While an official release date is TBA, October of next year is targeted. Don't mark your calendars yet though. We all know how frequently dates change in Streisand land.

Stick A Fork In It!

Something very strange happened mid-week. I actually enjoyed an episode of All My Children. I don't know who the writer was, but Wednesday's show was put together really well, and had excellent dialogue. Performances were on point as well. The glimmer of hope didn't last long, as Thursday was right back to stinksville. David Canary deserves an Emmy just for making the garbage he's given believable.

How are One Life To Live and As The World Turns in danger of cancellation, while this hot mess of a show sits pretty atop the ABC soap heap? It's time to bid Pine Valley adieu. Let it end while we still remember the good. The world has gone insane.

Senseless Violence!

Everyone knows that, more often then not, when a character leaves the General Hospital canvas, it's in a body bag. Claudia is apparently no exception. Speculation as to how she would bite the big one has circulated for weeks, and now everyone knows. She died at the hands of an axe-wielding Michael. Not going to lie, I'm having quite a bit of trouble with this development.

While I agree that a gruesome exit was inevitable and deserved, why did Michael have to be the one to do Claudia in? I understand that she's the reason he was in a coma for a year, but violent revenge isn't exactly the best answer. Instead of plunging an axe into the back of her skull, Michael would have done better to keep Claudia safely secure until the proper authorities arrived to bring the situation to a logical conclusion. Making a teenage boy a killer is senseless and stupid. Where does everyone involved go from here? I just keep thinking how awesome the story would have been if the climax had taken the less-then-obvious route.

The Story Of My Life: 2009 Original Broadway Cast

Simply truthful, The Story Of My Life takes an honest look at the ups and downs of friendship. Wil Chase and Malcolm Gets tackle their roles of Thomas and Alvin with ease and conviction. I won't go into the story, except to say there's an unexpected twist at the end that caught me completely by surprise.

This isn't a show where the lyrics get stuck in your head for days, nor are they particularly memorable. The score is soft and understated, moving things along at a perfect pace. Taking the entire package into account, The Story Of My Life definitely deserved a longer life than it had. I love shows with substance and heart. Be prepared to come away from this one inspired and with a deeper appreciation of what you have.

Maze Of Fragmented Ramblings...

It’s amazing really. Trying to explain to someone how much they mean to you without sounding foolish. You close yourself off for so long, for fear of feeling. Then the stars align and everything unexpectedly comes into focus. Something as seemingly unimportant as the back of someone’s head, or a spur-of-the-moment joke, can change your life in ways thought impossible. If you’re one of the lucky few to find Everlasting, how tight do you hold on?

I’m scared of getting comfortable. It’s always meant devastation. At what point can you start to breathe without worrying you’re on borrowed time? It’s not true you know. While the passage of time certainly helps, it doesn’t completely heal wounds. Move forward in your own time. Don’t worry about being judged. Love with all you are, even after it looks to be done. Resist letting any one thing define you, but acknowledge assistance in shaping is a necessity.

And, just like that, it’s over as quickly as it began.

Inspiration…

Hogan And TNA Partner Up!

Yes, it's true. Hulk Hogan and TNA are business partners. What does this mean for the company? Nobody seems to really know at this point. Personally, I'm conflicted. With Hogan comes the name recognition that TNA desperately needs. A definite pro. On the flip side, history shows that when Hogan is attached to a project or company, he usually becomes its focal point. Con. Lest we forget, with Hogan comes Eric Bischoff. With his entrance into the mix, it's widely believed that Vince Russo's days are numbered. Incredible pro. If you're reading this and have any wrestling knowledge at all, you know it's also true that Bischoff and Hogan like to surround themselves with friends and give them undeserved pushes to the detriment of a company. Con a thousand times over. I could go on like this for days, but you get the point. It's a game of wait and see.

Halloween Fun!

Everyone knows that I don't like Halloween. But, when the opportunity to go out trick-or-treating with my nephews and niece presented itself, I couldn't say no. Originally, I wanted to replicate Lady GaGa's look at the end of her Paparazzi music video. I thought better of that idea when I realized it would probably scare the little ones. Rebecca was kind enough to pick up a wig, cape, and some makeup to transform me into a vampire. A fun night was had by all. I don't think I looked too bad either. Definitely dressing up again next year.

Outstanding Star...

Okay, I want to admit something first. This idea is not an original one. That being said, I think it very important to recognize great work in Daytime, so that's what I'm setting out to do.

My first choice this time around this Julie Pinson from As The World Turns. Janet praying in the chapel for God to spare Brad's life was amazing. I appreciated the fact that it all felt so honest and real. Julie opted to take the understated root, and a wise choice it was. My heart broke when the tears started flowing. Great stuff.

A close second, Sarah Brown as Claudia on General Hospital. Even while Claudia was suffering a psychotic break and kidnapping a woman in labor, Sarah managed to keep it all grounded. With the writing providing no service whatsoever, I imagine it must have been extremely difficult for her to believe the nonsense Claudia was spewing. Somehow though, it was all believable and heartfelt. Crying gets me almost every time and Ms. Brown does a great job in that department. Kudos for making the shit rise above itself.

Xtreme Wrestling Torrents!!!

Found this wonderful site and have to share. It's such a pain in the ass trying to download PPV's every month. If you're not a member of certain sites, trying to find high quality video is difficult. I don't have to worry about that anymore. Xtreme Wrestling Torrents to the rescue! Amazing! Of course, you'll need a torrent program to download your selections. Everyone should join.

Hayley And Mateo Visit!

Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos will reprise their Emmy-nominated roles of Hayley and Mateo in honor of All My Children's 40th anniversary in January. Ripa made the announcement earlier this week on Live With Regis And Kelly. The brief returns are expected to air the week of January 5th.

Smarten Up!

Why are the woman of Oakdale so desperate and delusional? Am I honestly supposed to believe that a sophisticated woman like Barbara Ryan would fall to pieces over being given the short end of the stick by Henry? Come on. She would snap him like a twig, use his leg as a toothpick, and not bat an eye. Get it together, Barbara. You're better than this!

While Henry is still fresh in our minds, let's talk about his mother, Audrey. As much as I love portrayer Lynn Herring, this character needs to go. Hairbrain schemes and ridiculous plots are fine, if not somewhat expected at times. However, when you continuously put yourself in unbelievable, compromising situations, I just don't care. Henry, Vienna, Audrey, and Maddie need to leave town and never look back.

I feel so bad for Liberty. The poor girl makes one careless mistake and isn't allowed to rectify it as she sees fit. It would be nice if all the people pulling her fifty different ways would wake up and realize that all this stress isn't good for mother or child. Let her live her life. I have the utmost confidence that she'll make the right decision when the time comes. Making life altering ones under duress is a recipe for disaster.

Broken Blu-ray!

I hate Sony. I've had nothing but bad luck owning anything with that name attached. My Blu-ray player, which is just about two years old, is on its way out. The warranty has expired and it's not worth fixing. Why fix something when the same problem is going to happen again in no time? The whole situation is very frustrating. It being around the holidays and all, I would feel guilty spending the decent amount of money needed to replace it on myself. There's always the day after Thanksgiving sale option...

Amazing Couple Of Days!

I've dedicated quite a bit of space on this blog to letting people know that I enjoy life's simple pleasures. With the exception of family, there is nothing more important to me then friends. I can't think of a better way to start the day then a surprise visit from your best one. That's exactly what happened Thursday morning. It was quick and spontaneous, but set the mood for the day perfectly. It's also a plus when you get to spend the majority of the week with someone you feel blessed to be around.

While still on a high from Thursday's surprise, I couldn't believe when I found out Friday was shaping up to be even better. A newly overhauled apartment, brunch with those same two incredible people, and a WWE pay-per-view. Does it get any better? Seriously? So, while I know I'm setting myself up for a healthy dose of goodnatured teasing, I would like to say thank you to Tim and Rebecca. I know I'll probably here something along the lines of "you don't have to thank us, that's what friends are for", but it's the only way I could think of putting it without overdoing. :)

I love you guys very much.

Quote Of The Moment...

"God created us different to know our need for one another."

-Archbishop Desmond Tutu

Love Is The Answer: Deluxe Edition

Breathtaking cover shot, amazing, age-defying vocals, perfect interpretation, and stunning song selection. All of these elements combine seamlessly to make Love Is The Answer a masterful work of art. For those unaware, two versions of the album are available. The first, a studio album with full orchestra, and a bonus track. The second, a deluxe edition, offering both the previously-mentioned disc, and a quartet version of the same material, minus the bonus track. The standard issue, while perfectly lovely, is totally outshined by its quartet counterpart. Use to hearing Barbra backed by a full, lush orchestra, I was shocked at how amazing she sounds with a simple string set and base behind her.

Wanting listeners to judge without bias, I'll resist the urge to list my favorite cuts. Every one is distinctly individual and unique. Beautiful pictures of heartache, loss, loneliness, love, peace, and longing are painted. Emotions thought long ago forgotten will breathe new life as you lose yourself in this enchanting work. Like has been previously stated, a number one debut, and the recognition that brings has never been more deserved. Anyone in doubt of Miss Streisand's ever-enduring talent and legacy will be silenced by this career highpoint.

#1 Debut!

With her latest album, Love Is The Answer, debuting at the top of the charts, Barbra Streisand becomes the only artist in history to have a number one record in each of the last five decades. This offering is truly one of her finest, and wholeheartedly deserves the spot. It is an honor and privilege to be a Barbra Streisand fan. I couldn't be more proud. Congratulations, Barbra! You are the greatest star!

Greenlee Lives!

Ho hum. Seems as though Greenlee survived the motorcycle crash. Rebecca Budig is returning to her signature role. TPTB are working overtime to lock the actress into a long-term deal, but apparently there's resistance. I'll tell you right now, if the storyline and effort are as atrocious as last time, I may have to take matters into my own hands.

New Colby Found Already!

Mere days after the news of Brianne Moncrief''s release, a replacement has been found. Natalie Hall is the new face of Colby Chandler. Though she begins taping in mid-October, her on-screen debut date is yet to be announced.

Quote Of The Moment...

"I feel your tears as they fall on my cheek. They are warm like the gentle rain."

-Gentle Rain-Barbra Streisand

Pandemonium!

All My Children's shocking casting bloodbath! Let's total everyone up, shall we. Alicia Minshew, Thorsten Kaye, Daniel Kennedy, Jill Larson, Ray McDonnell, Beth Ehlers, Chrishell Stause, Brianne Moncrief, and Aiden Turner have all either quit, gotten fired, or chosen to retire from the show as a result of the immanent move to LA. What exactly is the point of this? I can see showing hair models like Aiden and Brianne the door, but to fire amazing talent like Beth Ehlers is nonsensical and unforgivable.

In related news, Susan Lucci, though not moving to the West Coast, is staying. Expect I Wanna Be A Soapstar runner-up BethAnn Bonner to join the show in the recurring role of Kat very soon. Sources say it's likely Bonner will score a contract. Great, just what we need, another newbie.

In all honesty, I would have rather AMC be canceled. Seeing it decimated is shameful and sad. I'm sorry Frons and Pratt, Rebecca Budig and Eden Riegel just aren't worth this.

The Zood!

When my sister asked me if I'd like to go to the zoo with her and the nephews, I couldn't resist. Such a wonderful time. The first two pictures are priceless. My sister is an amazing photographer.

P.S. I refer to it as the zood in the title because my oldest nephew kept calling it that. Hysterical!

Mongrief... er...Moncrief OUT!

I see a light at the end of this trainwreck of a tunnel. Sources are reporting that All My Children has shown DBTE Brianne Moncrief the door. This ouster proves that miracles can happen! No word yet on whether Colby Chandler will be recast.

A Love Like Ours

Start with the bad, end with the good. This album is riddled with issues. While I don't have problems with the theme of love and happiness, the songs are so sweet that my teeth hurt. One need look no further for evidence of this then the above cover art. For an album centered around life's greatest emotions, nearly everything feels uninspired. The songs are aimless, and bleed into one another without distinction. Repetitive lyrics are irritating and detract from what little there is to enjoy. I'm surprised and disappointed that Barbra would be associated with such subpar material.

You guessed it. This album's only saving grace is Streisand herself. Vocals are lush, strong, beautiful, and poignant, allowing the material to rise above itself. So, if you can get past all other issues, and focus on purity of voice, you'll get lost in greatness.