Charitable Streisand...

Barbra will be one of the many singers and celebrities to participate in a new recording of We Are The World, with proceeds benefiting the victims of the tragedies in Haiti. A video will first air on February 12, 2010 on NBC.

Someone's In The Kitchen...

Doesn't get much yummier then this. My mom's Chicken Enchilada Casserole! Almost everything I love in a single dish! Chicken, cheese, salsa, nacho chips, and, did I mention CHEESE! Makes my tummy and tastebuds so happy!

Date For "Doc" Blu-ray!

Look for What's Up, Doc to debut on Blu-ray on August 10, 2010. Bonus features and other details forthcoming.

Awesome!

I love my blog. I can't believe how fast it's growing. Would just like to thank all my followers. Means so much that you value what I have to say. So happy right now!

James Mitchell Passes...

Sad news. Over the weekend, actor James Mitchell passed away. He, and Palmer Cortlandt, will be greatly missed. I hope All My Children puts together a fitting tribute, and gives the character a respectable sendoff.

Quote Of The Moment

"Backstabbing always leaves blood on your hands, no matter how slick you are with a blade."

-John Barrowman

Les Miserables: 1985 Original London Cast

This recording is unique, in that both brilliance and mediocrity are on prominent display. There's no disputing that Claude-Michel Schonberg and Alain Boublil created a masterpiece with this work. Music, lyrics, and story are among the greatest in the history of musical theatre. My problem lies more with the interpretation of this particular offering. To begin, though this is hard for me to say because of my love for her, I think Patti Lupone was terribly miscast as Fantine. Playing her as a weak victim of circumstance does the character a great disservice. It's also unfortunate that Patti's incredible voice never realizes its full potential.

Why are significant portions of the show missing? Failure to include pivotal scenes and songs is not only unnecessary, but may cause confusion. If a complete version exists, I hope it sees release someday.

Big thumbs up to the bare orchestration. In stark contrast to the lushness of the 10th Anniversary Concert, a gritty reality and simplicity is found. Continuing in a positive light, the original lyrics are extraordinary, and make one question why they were ever rewritten. With the exception of the above mention, this cast is perfect.

The first in a long line of English Les Miserables recordings, The Original London Cast is my pick for all-around standout.

Federal Agent Cast...

Former Another World star Dahlia Salem will join General Hospital in the role of Federal Agent Claire Walsh. First airdate for actress and character are unknown.

Double Casting Shot...

Sarah Wilson will take over the role of Liberty when fan favorite Meredith Hagner vacates. Wilson will debut in March. With the show set to end this September, I think recasting is a mistake. Let Liberty lose her battle with cancer, Meredith earn an Emmy nomination, and fans be spared a useless shakeup.

In related news, Valentina de Angelis will assume the role of Faith Snyder. No further information is available at this time.

The Next "Nature Boy?"

Okay, so everybody knows that AJ Styles turned heel at Genesis and joined forces with Ric Flair. Still don't know exactly how I feel about that, but have heard some very unsettling Impact taping spoilers. Apparently, Flair is grooming Styles to be the next "Nature Boy." What exactly does this mean? I honestly have no idea. I can see it now though. Incredibly cheesy vignettes centered around Ric teaching AJ the proper way to "Whooooooo."

Though this next point wasn't originally mine, it's definitely something to be concerned about. Let's say that whoever is in charge realizes halfway through the angle that it's not working. Do they scrap it entirely, or play it for laughs? Allow me to clarify. Everyone knows that AJ has a thick southern accent. Here's what I see happening. It becomes obvious fairly early on that the idea of turning Styles into a sophisticated, cocky heel doesn't have legs. The whole thing gets turned around on itself, the accent is focused on and overemphasized, TNA's top draw and greatest talent is turned into a country bumpkin joke.

Am I reading too much into this? Probably. Are my fears groundless? I certainly hope so. Knowing the track record of the people involved however, skepticism doesn't even begin to describe what I'm feeling.

More Door Drama!

Turns out the problem with my door isn't fixed after all. The button isn't the culprit though. Apparently, it has something to do with the electrical unit that makes the door open. Thank goodness I made arrangements just in case something like this happened. The company that installed everything will be here tomorrow to get it all working again... hopefully.

Scenery Chewing 101...

Okay, I have to go there. Judi Evans is ridiculous! I have never seen such an over-the-top display as when Paulina was finally ready to come clean to Grant. Hollering, screaming, and flailing your arms does not give a scene depth. Along those same lines, the ability to cry on cue isn't the only requirement to being a good actress. As if those scenes weren't vomit and headache inducing enough, I was forced to sit through yet another Jake/Paulina confrontation. Thank God for Tom Eplin. He was the only thing keeping me from putting a gun to my head. I honestly don't understand how Judi is so highly regarded. I think she's terrible. She officially gets my vote for the worst recast in history! That's saying something. Can't stand her!

Genesis

Let's begin at the beginning. I think replacing the six-sided ring with a traditional style is a big mistake. Six sides was one of the biggest things that made TNA unique. Whoever makes decisions needs to seriously rethink this one. Next, Taz has to go. He is absolutely terrible. The stuttering, calling talent by the wrong names, missing cues, and distasteful humor detract from the product.

Debuts. Impressed with one, disappointed with the other. Brian Kendrick faced off with Amazing Red for the X Division Championship. Answer me this. How does a debuting talent get a championship shot right out of the gate? I would be pissed if I'd been busting my ass just to get overlooked in favor of the latest WWE castoff. That being said, the match itself was very good, and served as proof that Kendrick deserves this chance.

Mr. Anderson's first taste of TNA action was against Abyss. Bit of unsolicited advice for whoever put this one together. When you're trying to get someone over as the next big thing, don't match them up against a man who couldn't wrestle his way out of a paper bag. Abyss' inability to do anything, with exception to stinking up the joint, severely hindered Mr. Anderson. I know he's better than this, and hope TNA quickly rectifies their mistake. This is one of the only times I can recall a victory meaning less than a loss.

Beer Money was victorious over The Band in a waste of time. When is the wrestling world finally going to realize that Sean Waltman and his running buddies bring nothing to the business?

Desmond Wolfe is the man. His match with The Pope was the second best of the night. He is amazingly innovative and inspiring. The things that this man does should be taught in every wrestling school worldwide. Just plain stunning! I see a title reign on tap for Mr. Wolfe in 2010.

Main event time. Another classic in the series of matches between AJ Styles and Kurt Angle. These two blow expectations up everytime they meet in the ring. Was phenomenal until the closing moments. I had heard that Ric Flair was going to be a mentor-like-figure to Styles. So, when he made his way to ringside shortly after the match began, I didn't think anything of it. I suppose I should have known that "The Dirtiest Player In The Game" would cheat to ensure victory for his man. I'm still disgusted. Can't anyone come up with a creative way to turn heel? I'm sick of the same old garbage. Yes, AJ retained his title. Why did it have to go down this way? I can't talk about it anymore.

Damn Door!

Wake up this morning with my door opener on the fritz. Think it gets fixed, but as soon as the cavalry leaves, malfunctioning again. Second time around, we find the real problem, and everything seems to be working now. Wheels crossed it stays that way.

Bailey Got To Know You...

Sofia Black-D'Elia is set to exit All My Children. Look for Bailey to leave town with Stuart.

Not This Time...

I tuned into American Idol for the ninth season premiere just for the hell of it. What a ridiculous waste of time. This show has become such a joke. What supposed to be a singing competition, has turned into an absolute freakshow. Refuse to get sucked in this time. Ellen DeGeneres isn't enough to convince me to stick around. Have already taken it off my DVR.

New Headwriters Named...

Soap Opera Network is reporting that David Kreizman and Donna M. Swajeski have been named co-headwriters of All My Children. I'm a fan of Ms. Swajeski's work from Another World. Not really familiar enough with Mr. Kreizman to comment. Oh, how I wish Lorraine Broderick could have been convinced to helm AMC permanently.

Too Much, Yet Not Enough...

Just a dishonorable this time round. Jonathan Jackson as Lucky on General Hospital. He completely overacted the scenes where Lucky confronts Jason about choosing to rescue Sam over Lulu. Ridiculousness on display at its finest.

Let's journey to the other end of the spectrum now. Jonathan seemed bored out of his mind during the Lucky/Nikolas confrontation. My three year old nephew showed more emotion when his toy got taken away for misbehaving. Just sad.

Raw: Could Be Interesting...

This post is for Joey.

Going in, knowing Mike Tyson wasguest hosting, my hopes weren't high. I liked the initial confrontation with Sheamus, but then when Cena, Orton, and Kingston joined the fray, it all became very ridiculous. The MVP/Miz segment ran way too long, and was just regurgitated junk. Ending, with Tyson turning on Jericho and aligning with DX was predictable and cheesy.

The Orton/Cena/Kingston match was awesome until Legacy interference led to Randy becoming the number one contender. As much as I dislike how the ending went down, I admit to being intrigued by a Randy Orton/Sheamus confrontation.

Vince promising Bret will never be seen on WWE television again wasn't exactly what I expected. I suppose it served the purpose of making Vince an even bigger heel well though. I fully expect to see Bret handing out retribution next week. There are so many different directions this could go in.

As always, I refuse to comment on anything to do with Mark Henry. They should just put his picture in the dictionary next to the definition of useless. I honestly can't remember anything else that happened.

Was great being able to bounce ideas and predictions off Tim. Definitely awesome to watch wrestling with someone who is as interested as you are.

Dixie Lives?????

Soap Opera Digest is reporting that Cady McClain is returning to All My Children as Dixie Cooney for a short stint. ABC Daytime president Brian Frons hints that the story will involve Tad. Is Dixie alive? Will this be another failed attempt to placate AMC's massive Tad/Dixie fanbase with an insulting ghost storyline? I suspect the latter. Unless an in-the-flesh Dixie returns, this is all pointless.

So Unfortunate...

Just want to say how bad it stinks that As The World Turns is going off the air. This show has such unfulfilled potential, and great storylines in the works. Very unfortunate. Moving on...

Who ever thought Craig would be the voice of logic and reason? Everything he pointed out to Jack about their respective treatment of Carly is true. As much as I think Jack and Carly should be the endgame, some serious self-examination on each of their parts is necessary.

Where does Janet fit into all this? I don't see a Dusty pairing having any sort of longevity. Truthfully, I think the final months of the show would be much more enjoyable without him around. Janet is going to have enough on her plate with Liberty's diagnosis anyway. Should provide emmy reels for all involved. May even put them in the race for top honors at this year's awards.

Blah, Blah, Blah!

Sorry I haven't been posting all that much. Just haven't had a whole hell of a lot to say. Would like to eventually write about the TNA/WWE showdown, but still trying to wrap my head around everything that's happened. Don't want to be one of those people who post just to post. Wait, isn't that what I'm doing right now? Anyway, hopefully something will spur inspiration soon.

Can't Believe It!

Hallelujah! Julia Barr will be reprising her emmy-winning role of Brooke English on All My Children beginning February 23rd. I can't even begin to tell you how happy this news makes me. No word yet regarding reintroduction or storyline. With Lorraine Broderick at the helm, I have the utmost confidence that it will be amazing. Welcome back, Brooke! We've missed you so!

Quote Of The Moment...

"1 Saviour + 3 Nails = 4 Given"

Happy Anniversary!

On this day in 1970, legendary soap scribe Agnes Nixon introduced the world to All My Children. For forty years, this television staple has been a part of our daily lives. One of the most endearing things about this show is its willingness to tackle difficult issues with grace and poise. When a story is written and acted well, it can oftentimes serve as an educational tool on the topic with which it deals. Ms. Nixon, and most other creators involved with this groundbreaking drama, have, through their tireless work and dedication, insured that Pine Valley will live forever.

So, on this momentous milestone of an anniversary, I would like to thank All My Children for being a part of my life I couldn't imagine living without. We've had our ups and downs, and are sure to have many more as we continue this journey together. With cautious optimism, I look forward to many more years. Happy anniversary, All My Children. Here's to an endless existence!

Delay!

The Village Vanguard DVD has and delayed! It is now expected to be released sometime in April or May.

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.