Labyrinth-A Novel

A.C.H Smith does an amazing job spinning a novel from this beloved film. Though I didn't think it possible, the world of Labyrinth is even more realized in print. Those who know the characters of the movie will find their knowledge enriched by the detail with which Smith describes every situation. Not familiar with the magic of the Jim Henson classic? Don't worry, the book will be just as enchanting. This novel has replaced The Neverending Story as my all-time favorite fantasy. Once the journey begins, you'll find yourself wishing the clock would never strike thirteen.

She's Baa-aack!

I certainly hope John and Sharlene don't get too comfortable. Taylor is back and ready to serve up some revenge. She's as psychotic as ever and I'm going to love every second! Okay, I know this post is really short, but I had to share the good news with everyone! Hooray for Taylor!

Charlotte's Web

Charming. That's the first word I think of when this book comes to mind. I don't remember it as a child and felt kind of goofy having a desire to read it as an adult. I'm very glad I did. Charlotte's Web teaches lessons of tolerance, patience, friendship, loyalty, and sacrifice that everyone would be better to try to live by. The most appealing thing about this classic read is that it isn't written as a typical children's book. Old and young alike will find it enjoyable and take away individual inspirations. Definitely recommended in the highest regard.

Dinner, Boats, And Laughs...

Yesterday afternoon, I decided that I was going to ask Rebecca to dinner. I hadn't been to my favorite Chinese restaurant, Bamboo Garden in a long time and couldn't stay away any longer. We had a wonderful time. Great food, insightful conversation, laughing. After we had finished, and realized it was too nice to come back home right away, we went to the docks to see the boats. I had never been, and was quite fascinated. After a few minutes of serious conversation, we decided to lighten the mood by taking pictures.

We decided to have a photo shoot with Rebecca as the model. While all the pictures were beautiful, this one definitely stood out.

Thank you, Rebecca, for a wonderful evening. It was great fun and I will remember it for a long time.

Push Me, Pull You...

I hate Cass Winthrop! I really wish he would start making decisions with the head on his shoulders. He knows absolutely nothing about police work but is insisting on sticking his nose in the Signet investigation. It may be fun for him to play these little, ridiculous games, but it's not going to end well. If nothing else, Cass should think of the two women he supposedly loves and put their safety and welfare ahead of his stupidity. I wish Signet would take him out!

Scooby-Doo --I mean John and Sharlene are getting on my last nerve. I really don't know how much more of their stupid adventures I can take. John needs to cut his losses and take a full-time position at the clinic. I can understand wanting to clear your name and reputation, but this dance is getting real tired. After all these hours of agony, I had better at least get my Taylor payoff!

Brokeback Mountain

What to say about Brokeback Mountain. Though only a short story, it packs a punch that most novels lack. Intense from cover to cover, this book will leave you pondering the definition of love, and wishing you had it as described in the pages. While a quick read, this book is a must. This account of love, longing, circumstance, and regret will linger within you. Superb!

Wicked: 2003 Original Broadway Cast

We'll get the truth out of the way immediately. I was completely obsessed with this recording upon first discovery. It having been years and my obsession waned, I can now give an honest review. The two women in the leads fit perfectly. Convincing, wonderful voices, the whole deal. One problem immediately noticeable however is the fact that one can hear every breath taken. It becomes really annoying and distracting, watering down enjoyment. Next, large sections of the score are repetitive. Not good. The end being Disneyized to appeal to a younger audience doesn't help either.

As for the good, there are some touching moments and beautifully written songs. If you enjoy analyzing material, this piece provides plenty of opportunity. As fair warning, have a box of tissues set aside specifically for For Good. You'll cry for days. I can't quite wrap it up in a simple bow. Wicked is one of those shows that truly has to be judged on an individual basis.

Daytime Emmy Nominations...

Nominations for the 2009 Daytime Emmys have just been announced. All My Children has racked up an impressive twelve. That said, I think there are only two that have a chance of winning. Debbi Morgan pretty much has a lock in the Lead Actress category. Alicia Minshew is a possibility, but I won't be holding my breath. I don't think AMC is deserving of the majority of its nominations. There is one glaring omission. One Life To Live being snubbed for Outstanding Drama Series is a crime. I'll definitely be tuning in to see how it all plays out.

Streisand-The Concerts

Note: For the purpose of this post, the previously reviewed Live In Concert 2006 will not be
mentioned.

If you're a Streisand fan, you've been eagerly anticipating the release of this set. From a technical standpoint, be prepared for a major letdown. With no care given to the audio or visual restoration of The Concert: Live At Arrowhead Pond or The Making Of The Broadway Album, one is left feeling cheated and duped. Don't expect much of annything.

Technical issues aside, it's absolutely amazing to finally have these two Streisand treasures on DVD. I defy anyone to not get swept up in the pure magic that is Barbra live. There is nothing better!

The Making Of The Broadway Album is a take it or leave it situation. While it's nice to see once for insight and rare recording sessions, it doesn't bare repeated viewing and will most likely be forgotten in short order. Well worth purchasing for Arrowhead alone.

Quote Of The Moment...

"I need you now. Do you think you can cope? You figured me out.. that I'm lost and I'm hopeless. I'm bleeding and broken. Though I've never spoken, I come undone."

-Mad Season-Matchbox Twenty

The Role Of Paulina Cory...

Those are words I didn't expect to hear yesterday when tuning into Another World. One of my biggest soap annoyances is when actors and actresses change without warning. Cali Timmins had won my heart as Paulina from the moment I started watching. Now, though, Judi Evans as officially stepped in. It's only been one day, so I'm willing to give her a chance. Apparently, Jake and Evans' Paulina eventually become a supercouple. We'll have to wait and see if I feel the magic.

Quote Of The Moment...

"Special to me in my life since the first day that I met you. How could I ever forget you once you had touched my soul?"

-Unusual Way-Barbra Streisand

#1!

Ladies and gentlemen, it's official! Streisand-The Concerts has debuted at number one and is the highest selling music DVD of the year so far. Incredible news for Barbra and her supporters. I can't believe we still have a new album to look forward to!

Baker's Babe Back...

Yes, unfortunately you heard me right. Amanda Baker is set to return to All My Children in May as Babe Carey. In ghostly form, the character visits JR and Krystal and is the catalyst for the revelation of a secret. The stint will last a handful of episodes.

Happy Girl!

Was so happy to finally spend the entire day with my niece. We had lots of fun and bonded for the first time. She was absolutely enthralled by the kittens and if was awesome to see that beautiful smile. What a joy she is!

Someone's In The Kitchen...

Bacon, cheese and potato casserole. Is it the healthieest thing in the world to eat? Probably not. Come to think of it, it doesn't even look good. Trust me, it was.

Rockin' The Do!

Back in black. I knew the Mohawk wouldn't stay gone for long.

My Two Cents...

As everyone knows by now, Jamie Luner has assumed the role of Liza Colby. Let's examine this in depth, shall we? It's common knowledge that Ms. Luner starred on Melrose Place during Charles Pratt's tenure with the show. It's also obvious that the two have remained friendly. First question, did their friendship play a role in this casting decision? Answer: Yes.

How can someone with blatant disregard for the rich history of All My Children be hired to helm this iconic show? Answer: Brian Frons is completely out of his mind. That's the only explanation for such a ludicrous choice. If Mr. Pratt had even the slightest of clues, he would realize that Liza is being written completely out of character. With her history of issues surrounding sex, Liza would never have jumped the bones of a man we're supposed to believe she doesn't know. To that point, it's beyond difficult to believe that Zach wouldn't know who Liza is. He's made it his business to know everything Chandler inside and out. What the fuck!

Continuing, have dye jobs become so unaffordable that highly paid actresses can't even afford to look the part? Answer: With the budget crunch that's effecting AMC, hair and makeup were the first to go. Liza has always been a platinum blonde. Red hair just doesn't make sense. Why all the secrecy? Answer; In addition to getting a law degree while away, Liza also found time to become a secret agent/private investigator and is looking for Dixie's real killer. As a side note, does anyone else find Jamie Luner's line delivery robotic?

Apparently, along with her many other talents, Liza has become a card shark. No, I'm not making this up. Everything I've said is actually happening. I know, my head hurts to. I just don't buy any of it. Nothing. There have been plenty of miscasts through the years, but this one really has me baffled. It just seems wrong on every level. There are other issues I would like to address on this topic, but it's legitimately worn me out. I'm signing off for now.

Fireworks!

What exactly does Carl have planned for Bay City? How will Kathleen figure in? What role will Lucas play? These are all questions I can't wait to get answers to. Carl is definitely one of the most intelligent villains I have ever seen on daytime. Just when the good citizens of BC think they have him pegged, he changes the game entirely. Top-notch drama!

Paulina and Jake are adorable. I have a feeling it won't be long before their little marriage scheme has real emotions mixed in to complicate things. The game of cat and mouse that they're playing is great entertainment. Awesome!

John and Sharlene are ridiculous already! You would think they'd realize by now that Taylor is always one step ahead, with nicely covered tracks. How much longer is this nonsense going to continue? Taylor needs to come back and rid Bay City of those two buffoons for good.

Matt Giraud Gone!

Okay, so I know I haven't done a lot of blogging about American Idol this season. Truth be told, with the exception of a couple of contestants, there hasn't been much to watch for. Unfortunately, this week saw the end of the Idol road for my favorite hopeful, Matt Giraud. I'm very disappointed, but look forward to following the awesome career he is sure to have. As for those remaining, I think it's fairly obvious that it's going to come down to Danny and Adam. Adam being putrid and ridiculous on every conceivable level, I hope Danny takes the crown. Honestly, now that Matt is gone, I really don't even care.

Quote Of The Moment...

"I don't care if you're the patient or the doctor, relationships are difficult to have."

-Barbra Streisand