Just Wow!

Lynn Herring as Lucy Coe.  The scenes where Lucy suffers a miscarriage were almost too painful to watch, and beautiful at the same time.  It's been a long time since I've seen an actress have such control, and make perfect choices.  One moment, Lucy was inconsolable, and on the verge of being swallowed whole by her grief.  The next, calm, reassuring, and doing her best to keep it together for Kevin.  Lynn knew exactly how to portray what Lucy was feeling.  Masterful!

Quote Of The Moment...

"I'm so afraid to love you, but more afraid to lose.  Clinging to a past that doesn't let me choose."

-I Will Remember You-Sarah McLachlan

Just Too Cute!

The most adorable little girl in the history of the universe!

So Long Ago...

Found this last night!  Seems like so long ago!  Love that he's rockin' the pug hat!

Switch...

As you may recall, I was very excited when the Kindle Fire was released.  Turns out, it wasn't fitting my needs.  Firstly, I realized I could access all the new features easier on a computer.  No need to check Facebook or Twitter.  The only thing I somewhat enjoyed was Angry Birds, and that got very boring, very fast.  Most important though, the backlight gave me a huge headache after reading for a short time.  Reading was quickly losing its appeal.  So, I decided to go back to basics.  No more backlight.  No more headaches.  Just my favorite pastime.

They're Here!

Tickets arrived yesterday!  Such a beautiful sight!

Permanent...

Looks like the role of Maxie Jones will be played by Jen Lilley permanently.  The actress announced the news on Twitter.  She also used the opportunity to ask fans to respect that she is doing her best, and acknowledge that she wishes the chance to play Maxie had come under different circumstances.  Wish Kirsten Storms all the best on her road to recovery.

Off My Chest...

Okay, I have to address this.  You may think it's silly, but it has to be done.

As everyone knows by now, Whitney Houston passed away.  Before I get to the real point of this post, I'd like to take a moment to acknowledge her amazing talent.  An angelic voice that few could match.  Record sales that the majority of artists dare not even dream of glimpsing, forget surpassing.  It's a shame that all the good in her life was not enough to see her through the bad.

With her death, have come comparisons to Barbra.  I understand people have the right to express opinions.  Hell, that's what I'm doing right now.  It's when they're stated in a hurtful, unfair manner that bothers me.  It may take a few extra seconds to mull over, but sometimes wording can make all the difference.  I've read quotes from several supposedly intelligent people saying that Barbra was talentless in comparison to Houston.  There was even a certain celebrity who called Streisand useless.

It's unrealistic and ridiculous to think that everyone should/would hold Barbra as near and dear as I.  That said, there's absolutely no need to tear one person down in order to build up another.  Ms. Streisand may not hit all the right notes for you, but to diminish her unparalleled accomplishments is to dismiss a legend.  Please, in any situation, think before you speak.

Quote Of The Moment

"Behind the moon, you'll find it, or, way beyond the stars.  It could be around the world, or right here where we are.  You'll never know what's there for you, unless you try and find it.  So, close your eyes, and take my hand.  The journey starts today.  It's the treasure of a love."

-Treasure Of A Love-Jeffrey Carlson

Long Time...

This was such a nice surprise last night!  Mr. Dillon hasn't liked being around me much lately.  For some reason, randomly, he decided to be sweet.  Wanted to capture the moment, because it probably won't happen again for a while.

Quote Of The Moment...

"Too many years fighting back tears.  Why can't the past just die?"

-Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again-The Phantom Of The Opera

Shipped!

Have been keeping the blog updated with every step, so just thought I'd let everyone know that my tickets have been shipped.  They should be here within 7-10 days!  So exciting!  Everyday brings me closer to what I'm sure is going to be one of the greatest experiences of my life!

Curveballs!

So, looks like the assumptions I made weren't exactly right.  It's looking like Eve and Scott are going to mix things up.  Knew she was going to steal that money to pay rent.  Have a feeling there's going to be trouble when it's eventually needed, and a portion is unaccounted for.  Very much looking forward to the rivalry between Eve and Lucy.  Meow!

A little confused about exactly what Rex wants from Danielle.  Unless I missed an explanation, I don't know the origin of their relationship.  Just a prediction, but, when all is said and done, I think Danielle ends up dead.  If it happens, I can't say I'll be sad to see her go.  While she's at it, she can take Jake with her.  One dimensional characters + portrayer's inability to act = useless and unnecessary.

Loving the budding relationship between Matt and Ellen.  Honestly, I can see it becoming a predictable story.  Underestimated wheelchair-bound intern melts frozen heart of hardened, skeptical, close-minded doctor.  There's definitely chemistry.  Debbi Morgan lends credibility to any storyline she is in.  So great to have her back on my screen!  Hopefully, a couple curveballs will be thrown to spice things up.

Confirmation!

Just got email confirmation of my ticket order!  Best part?  The price is almost half of that which was initially quoted!  I don't often say this, but sometimes it pays to be cripple!  :)    May 26th can't come soon enough!

Couldn't Resist...

A while back, Soapnet started airing reruns of All My Children.  I resisted watching, because I know the channel will cease to exist on March 23rd, and thought there was no point in investing again with such a small window of time.

Well, I decided I miss my friends in Pine Valley so much that I should check in.  Let me tell you, it's so wonderful to see them again.  It's nice, though a little unrealistic, to know that Babe and Bianca are beginning to mend fences.  I am truly sad for Adam.  He's about to learn that would-be-baby-Charlotte isn't his, but Tad's.  Very unfortunate.  Honestly, though, I don't see myself vilifying Krystal, as I'm sure most people will.  I've always understood the motivation behind her actions.

Though we'll only be reunited for a short time, it feels very good to see old friends again.  It's good to slip back in as though no time has passed.

From The Top!

Was browsing Youtube today, and found a channel playing Port Charles from the very beginning!  This is awesome beyond words!  Was a huge fan of the show, but didn't catch it from jump.  It's very interesting to see the traditional way things started.  Only a couple episodes in, and I'm already loving the friction, (that is almost sure to become a triangle), between Kevin, Lucy, and Scott.  I think they'll work together to find Serena, but once she's safe and sound, all bets are off.  See how quickly I get hooked?

Don't know how long the episodes will stay up, or if new ones will be posted, but I'm going to enjoy watching while it lasts.

Last...

This necklace is the last Crystal Ball Keepsake.  It came with two other interchangeable beads.  One orange, one clear.  For picture taking, this one showed up best.  Unfortunately, after 2002, the Crystal ball was discontinued.  Sad.  Was a yearly tradition I really enjoyed.  I guess, when the character it was in honor and remembrance of returns from the dead, there's no point.  Anyway, I'm so happy to have all three keepsakes in my possession.

A First!

In 2007, All My Children found itself as the subject of controversy when they introduced the first transgender character in the history of daytime television.  The brilliant Jeffrey Carlson portrayed Zarf/Zoe.  I remember critics dismissing the characters, and their story of transition as nothing more then a stunt to boost sagging ratings.  I vehemently disagreed then, and still do.  While I was screaming for then head writer Megan McTavish to disappear just as loud as everyone else, I saw the penning of this story as a bold, daring statement.

I count it a privilege to have followed this incredible journey of love, loss, uncertainty, searching, and acceptance.  Was going to go into greater detail, but got overwhelmed.

At its greatest, daytime television can serve to teach.  That's exactly what it did in this case, and I will never forget the lessons learned.

Quote Of The Moment...

"Each day's like the last when living in the past."

-The Heart Is Slow To Learn-Kiri Te Kanawa

Second CBK!

Told you I was going to start collecting AMC memorabilia!  This is the second Crystal Ball Keepsake.  From January 5, 2001.  Can't wait to start putting a display together!

Tickets!!!

Just ordered tickets to see the revival on May 26th!  I can't believe it is actually happening!  I'm going to New York to see my all-time favorite musical on Broadway!  Doesn't feel real!  Have waited my entire life for this!  Absolute dream come true!

A Piece Of AMC History!

Back when Shop The Soaps was around, ABC was selling this Crystal Ball Keepsake to commemorate the 30th anniversary of All My Children.  I didn't have a credit card then, and couldn't get one.  Have been looking since, and finally found one on Ebay the other day!  The first in a long line of All My Children collectibles I hope to get!

2012 Royal Rumble!

The 25th anniversary of Royal Rumble was on Sunday!  Now that I've had a while to reflect, it wasn't that good.  Was extremely disappointed in Punk/Ziggler, didn't care for Bryan/Show/Henry, and most certainly wasn't thrilled with Sheamus winning the Rumble match itself.  Kharma returning was the highlight of the night for me.

Surprise Return!

Kharma was a surprise entrant in the Royal Rumble last night!  Apparently, it had been rumored for a while, but, since I try to steer clear of any spoilers, it was a surprise to me.  Her return definitely adds legitimacy to the joke that is considered womens wrestling in WWE.  Hopefully, she'll take some of the Divas aside, and teach them a thing or two.  Very excited about potential feuds with Beth Phoenix, Natalya, and, Tamina.

"Starr"-ing Role!

Kristen Alderson has signed a three-year contract with General Hospital.  Some, including me, consider this great news.  Can't wait to see a little bit of Llanview in Port Charles!  Imagine the storyline possibilities a Starr/Michael pairing could spawn!  Endless!  Alderson debuts the week of February 20th!

Quote Of The Moment...

"Is every word you say what's really on your mind?"

-What About Us?-John Barrowman

The Baddest B*tch!

THE definitive Evita, Patti LuPone!

Groundbreaking!

The cast of the groundbreaking hit Showtime series Queer As Folk!  With the exception of an overabundance of sex scenes, this is one of my all-time favorite shows!  Gritty!  Honest!  Real!  Awesome!

Hilarious!

Rockin' The Do!

Been wanting to do something different with my hair for a long time.  My friend, Rainy, talked me into letting him give me a Fade.  Have to say, I really like it.  Think I'm going to stick with it for a while.

Quote Of The Moment...

"What good does eye for an eye do?  They'll just be more blind fools running around."

Hold It...

Unfortunately, it looks as though Kirsten Storms isn't returning to General Hospital quite yet.  Though it is unclear exactly why, Jen Lilley will continue as Maxie Jones for the foreseeable future.

Quote Of The Moment...

"When your heart's on fire, you must realize, smoke gets in your eyes."

-Smoke Gets In Your Eyes-Barbra Streisand

Final Pieces!

May be a little late to the party on this one, but just read that Max von Essen has been cast as Magaldi in the upcoming revival.  Also, Rachel Potter will play Peron's Mistress.  From where I'm sitting, that makes a complete cast.  Awesomeness!

Iconic!

Mandy Patinkin as Che!

Rated R!

The 2012 WWE Hall Of Fame class is Rated R!  I can't find words to express how happy I am that edge is being inducted.  I count it a privilege to have followed his career from the very beginning.  One of the greatest of all-time!  So proud of him!  Thank you, Edge!

YAY!

So happy to be writing this!  Kirsten Storms is reclaiming Maxie Jones!  After a somewhat mysterious illness, the actress is ready to return to work.  The switch will be seen sometime in February, and can't come soon enough.  So excited to see what this powerhouse of an actress is going to do with the incredible material Ron and Frank are sure to give her.

Nephews...

Two...

Mom got me these for Christmas.  Love them!

Quote Of The Moment...

"We're not meant to be perfect, we're meant to be whole."

-Jane Fonda

Quote Of The Moment...

 "I am a human being.  Nothing human can be alien to me."

-Terence

Christmas 2011!

 

I must admit, I was severely lacking in the holiday spirit department this year.  When Christmas Eve and day came though, things picked up.  Always love celebrating Christmas Eve with the Johnson clan.  So much fun!  As you can see, my collection of nutcrackers grew substantially.  Love it.  Can one ever have enough nutcrackers?  I think not!  Took a while for the joy of the season to find me.  It did, though.

Changes...

Looks like big changes are afoot for the 9th season of So You Think You Can Dance.  According to published reports, Fox has axed the results show.  While no one is sure exactly what that means for the competition as yet, I don't imagine it's a good thing.  Thinking about it logically, the amount of dancing is going to have to be cut to allow time at either the beginning or end of the performance show for elimination.  I admit to fast-forwarding through most of the results show, but it's a necessary element.  Without it, I'm afraid quality will suffer.  It's bad enough that the noise of cancellation keeps growing louder.  If ratings decline any further, Fox won't need an excuse.  Let's pray all kinks get smoothly ironed before the season begins.

Happy Anniversary!

If it were still on the air, All My Children would have celebrated its 42nd anniversary today.  Honestly, I still can't quite believe it's gone.  Thought I was getting over the loss, but writing this post is making me realize how fresh the wound still is.  Don't think I'll ever get over it.  Will never forget you, AMC!

Santa's Village!

A surprise visit to Santa's Village to meet Mick Foley?  Yeah, it actually happened.  I had no idea what to expect when meeting him.  As it turns out, he was the kindest, most gracious wrestler I've met yet.  He chatted with us amiably as he signed all the stuff I'd brought.  At one point The Hardcore Legend even insisted we had met before.  While I wish we had, and it made me feel good he thought that the case,this was definitely the first time.

After meeting Mick, Eric, Krystal, Tim, and I spent the day exploring.  Was so much fun.  It's taken me so long to post about it because I still can't believe how wonderful it was, and have had trouble finding the right words.  Many thanks to Tim for making this happen!  It's great that he's always with me when monumental things happen!  Love being able to share them with my best friend!  One of the best surprises in the history of ever!

The Excellence Of Execution, And The Hardcore Legend!

Tim and I attended our first XWA show on Saturday night.  The selling point was a dual autograph session, and Q & A with Mick Foley and Bret Hart.  Both were very candid and honest with their answers.  Getting to shake Bret's hand, and share a quick exchange with him was awesome!  Love the picture of us!  My eyes are actually open!  We waited in line for an autograph from Mick next.  Was nice that he remembered meeting us at Santa's village.  Sure, we had to remind him, but I think he genuinely did remember.

Whenever I make wrestling posts, it seems the same words always get used to describe my experience.  Awesome, excellent, incredible, amazing, unforgettable, unbelievable, mind-blowing.  I apologize if these get boring, but, the truth is, there are no words to accurately describe these experiences.  It's like getting to live my dream for a couple hours at a time.  As you might imagine, nothing compares to that.