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.

Turner's Aiden Out At AMC!

The soap gods have finally answered my prayer. Earlier this morning, it was announced that Aiden Turner, and his character with the same first name, will be leaving Pine Valley. According to the source of the info, the impending goodbye is storyline dictated. As should be obvious, I'm not exactly broken up with the news of this exit. Yes!!!

Don't Forget!

Barbra will be on Oprah this Thursday. They're conflicting reports as to whether or not it will be her only appearance. Some say that the episode, which will apparently feature a peace on Barbra's new house is simply an appetizer for an hour-long in-studio interview. Either way, I'll keep you updated. Don't forget to tune in!

Raw: Goodbye, Lillian!

I was shocked when I saw Lillian Garcia in the ring with tears in her eyes after speeding through a commercial break. I rewound to the beginning of the segment and couldn't believe she was announcing her WWE exit. I really thought she was a lifer. Thank you, Lillian for your years of service and entertainment. May you have every success. You will be missed!

I was really impressed with the opening Cody Rhodes/Triple H match. Legacy shows amazing growth every week. It won't be long before they're headlining as singles. Unfortunately, after the opening, everything went downhill. The segments with Cedric The Entertainer were atrocious, I refuse to watch anything with The Big Show or Mark Henry, Evan Bourne jobbed again, and the match between Kofi and Swagger never really got off the ground. Time for a prayer. Please God, let this match between Cena and Orton be the blowoff. I'm desperate for something new!

Carly Simon Autographs!

I'm so excited to finally share these. Have been a fan of Carly for years. My dad, who works on Martha's Vineyard, approached her on the boat one day. He told her what a big fan I was and asked if there was any way he could get an autograph for me. She said she'd get a package together to give to me soon. He told me this when he got home that evening, but I honestly didn't believe anything would come of it. Sure enough, a couple of weeks later, he comes home from work with a package under his arm that has my name on it. Opening it up, I couldn't believe what I saw. Three one-of-a-kind autographs! Two CDs, and one Polaroid. I wrote immediately, thanking her for such a great gesture. Through business associates, she got one last message to my dad. She wanted to let him know that she had received the letter and picture I'd sent, and that the picture hung on the wall in the room where she keeps her awards! What an honor! I can't believe it!

A Walk To Remember

As much as I love the movie, nothing compares to reading the novel. Author Nicholas Sparks leaves no detail unnoticed in creating this stunning work. From the outset, the reader feels as if they have known each character forever. That familiarity allows for very deep emotional investment. Landon Carter and Jamie Sullivan share a love that will soften even the hardest of hearts. Even though I'm writing a review, it's difficult for me to describe how truly amazing this book is. You'll come away a better person for reading it. Let the lessons it teaches inspire you to live your best life.

Nightclub Appearance Shown Online!

I've just learned that Barbra's upcoming concert at The Village Vanguard will be available for online viewing the week after it happens through her official website. Very exciting news! Be sure to check it out!

Aggravation!

I don't understand why things like this always happen. It seems like nothing ever stays stress free. If I could only do everything by myself and not have to depend on other people. Why is it so hard for people to take things seriously?

Awesome Weekend!

First was an adorable birthday party for my nephew. Loved getting to see the extended family. After that extravaganza, I came home and watched A Walk To Remember. Best movie ever! Sunday is family day at the farm. Had a nice cookout and visited with the extended family one more time before they head back. Was so awesome spending the weekend with everyone. It's not often we're all together in the same place. Good times! Good times!

Back On The Schedule...

That's right, I've tuned back in again. After hearing a radio interview with TNA president Dixie Carter about the changes being made to better the product, I had to see for myself. What an amazing turnaround. I'm so happy to see Impact focused in-ring again. AJ Styles had awesome matches with both Doug Williams and Chris Sabin. The confrontation between Christopher Daniels and Samoa Joe was also a highlight. Hearing Taz on commentary made me smile to. Clean finishes and highly contested matchups make for great television. I guess you could say I'm cautiously optimistic.

Tragedy And Consequences...

He put that Barbra to his head, and pulled the trigger...

Yikes!!!

Not good people, not good. Nielsen ratings for the week of August 24, 2009 were just released. Our beloved sudser, All My Children hit an all-time low of 1.7. Disgraceful and sad. Unfortunately, I highly doubt anything will be done in an effort to try and stop the hemorrhaging. There's nothing we can say that we haven't been screaming about already.

Amazing!

How fucking stunning does Chrishell Stause look in this dress?! I had to pick my jaw up off the floor when she came on my screen! There are no words!

Celebrate Good Times!

Apologies for me posting this late. We all had a great time celebrating my sister's birthday last weekend. The dinner choice of Chicken Caesar Salad was amazing, and the dessert with the name that I'm not sure of was pretty good to. I love this picture. She is so photogenic. Awesome. I hope you had an amazing day!

I Look To You

Just got done listening to the eagerly-awaited, highly-anticipated new offering from Whitney Houston, I Look To You. I've heard, and read about, several people complaining that her voice has lost some of its magic. While it's obvious that the sound of her instrument has matured with age, I think she's in top form vocally. Song choice is strong throughout. I just wish we had been treated to a couple more slow tunes. To that end, those looking for the Whitney of old, and unwilling to embrace the new, will be disappointed. Go into this with an open mind, take it as intended, and you'll be very pleased.

Quote Of The Moment...

"They say there's no future for us as a pair, and though I may know, I don't care."

-As Long As You're Mine-Wicked

A Walk To Remember

Inspirational, thought-provoking and heartfelt. This soundtrack is a great mix of music. Pop, rock, Christian, and Classsic are all represented. You don't have to be a fan of the movie to enjoy. It may be wise to have a box of tissues handy. The memories come rolling fast. Love it!

Raw: Dusty Double-Cross...With A Twist...

I couldn't help but smile when The American Dream's music hit my speakers. He announces a title match between Orton and Rhodes with Cena as referee. One more twist, Dusty will be in Cody's corner. While it definitely sounded intriguing, I knew something was up immediately.

The rest of the night, with the exception of Hornswoggle, Chavo, Show, and Mark Henry was very enjoyable. The divas played a big part, had two good matches, and proved they are worthy of being feature attractions. Kofi Kingston, The Miz, Jack Swagger, and Carlito were thrown together in a United States Championship match. I loved every second and am glad to see Kofi retain. MVP and Jericho squared off in a very entertaining back-and-forth battle, with Chris eventually getting a clean victory. These two worked well. Wouldn't mind seeing them step between the ropes again..

Okay, back to Rhodes and Orton. When it was ten of eleven and the main event hadn't started, I knew we weren't going to get what was promised. As it turns out, the elder Rhodes orchestrates a beatdown of Cena, with every member of Legacy getting licks in. DX runs in to help but is quickly overtaken with the assistance of Dusty's cowboy boot. As the confident, cocky group stands victorious, with faces strewn everywhere, Orton RKO's Dusty out of nowhere. The screen fades to black as Cody, tears in his eyes after the unexpected betrayal, stands looking at his father helplessly. Am very interested to see how this turn of events plays out.