900th!

So, Wednesday morning Tim lets me know that he has a surprise for later that night. I wonder all day, and am very excited. When I ask about it, he says something about wanting to make a cake, but not having time, and apologizes. No big deal. After dinner, we come home and watch Raw and Smackdown. Didn't take long because they were so horrendous that we fastforwarded through most everything. In the middle of playing Raw vs. Smackdown 2008, we start talking about when we think wrestling is going to improve, and what we would do to make it. I say that I can't wait to see a WWE event together eventually because it's amazing to be able to share my life's passion with my best friend. He agrees, and after some teasing, tells me that he got us tickets to the 900th episode of Raw on August 30th in Boston.

I can't believe it! This is amazing beyond comprehension. This amazing display of generosity and kindness is a perfect example of why Tim is the best friend I've ever had. He knew how important it was for me to go, and wanted to share in the experience. That night is going to be absolutely insane. I can't wait, and can't think of anyone I'd rather go with. Thanks, buddy! Get ready for the craziness!

Lovely Lexi!

Could I choose anyone except Lexi Ainsworth as Kristina on General Hospital? This woman never ceases to amaze. Her acting in the hospital lockdown scenes was outstanding. It's been a long time since I've seen tears like that flow so naturally. It's nice to see someone get caught up in a scene without being overtaken by the urge to overact. Everything was so controlled and mature. Lexi could certainly give a few of her colleagues pointers. If she doesn't get an Emmy nomination next year, I'll be stunned.

Just Hangin' Out...

This was taken the same night as the video below. He is just the most chill cat ever. I'm so lucky.

Official Site...

I just did a quick search for the 2012 revival of Evita, and found an official site.

http://evitaonbroadway.com/

Apparently, a sweepstakes is underway where someone will win an opening night package that includes accommodations, tickets, and passes to a party after the show. I want to enter, but have to read the restrictions first to make sure disabled individuals are qualified. Being there for opening night would be beyond a dream. Keep your fingers crossed.

Taking A Moment To Remember...

How beautiful were these two?! My all-time favorite couple, Leo and Greenlee. I loved All My Children before they came along, but their many romantic entanglements are what got me crazy addicted. I have never seen such amazing chemistry between actors or characters. Even in the midst of countless breakups, marriages, kidnappings, baby drama, and murder plots, it was obvious from the very start that they were meant for each other, and would always find their way back. They completed one another. Though I will always believe him to be alive somewhere, Leo went to an early, watery grave protecting his ladylove. Can't get more committed then that. I've spent countless hours scouring Youtube for video, just to get swept away again. Pine Valley feels like it's missing a piece of its heart without this pairing. Unforgettable!

Another Passing...

Larry Keith, Nick Davis on All My Children, has passed away at 79. Nick was an integral part of the canvas for many years. Unfortunately, I'm only familiar with Keith's work through classic clips, and guest appearances. Always sad reporting such a loss.

Disrespect!

WWE has taken JR out of the openings of their shows. How disrespectful! No commentator has meant more to the history of professional wrestling then Jim Ross. Apparently, all the years he remained loyal to the company, even after being shitted on, mean nothing. Fans from my generation, and previous ones, consider Mr. Ross to be THE voice of the sport. Just when you think WWE can't sink any lower...

Could Be Good...

Just finished watching the premiere episode of Lucha Libre USA. There were two very important aspects I enjoyed. Firstly, the focus seems to be in-ring. Definitely a welcome change from other offerings. The other thing I was glad to take note of is match length. Every match seemed important, and, was given a good amount of time. The one thing it's going to take me a while to get use to is the different rules of the style. Hopefully, that won't take too long. Very promising start.

Fun With A Friend...

Last night, while I was at AHA with John, Dillon had a visitor. From what Jill said, they didn't exactly get along at first. Exhibit A.

By the time the night was done though, they were thick as thieves. Before I went to bed, Jill snapped this creepy shot.

Quote Of The Moment...

"Love has a color, and colors are many. Blue is for lonely, and red is for danger."

-Night Of My Life-Barbra Streisand

Yes!!!

MTV2 is finally bringing Lucha Libre to the United States. On July 16th, and every Friday thereafter, the network will air a new American wrestling promotion called Lucha Libre USA. I can't even begin to describe how exciting this is. Have always loved the style, but have had limited access because of where I live. This could be absolutely huge for the wrestling industry. If its as being presented, this promotion could leave WWE and TNA in the dust if you're a fan of in-ring work. I'll definitely be sharing thoughts and opinions. So exciting!

The Dangers Of Quoting The Bible...

In her radio show, Dr Laura Schlesinger said that, as an observant Orthodox Jew, homosexuality is an abomination according to Leviticus 18:22, and cannot be condoned under any circumstance.

The following response is an open letter to Dr. Laura, penned by a US resident, which was posted on the Internet. It's funny, as well as informative: Dear Dr. Laura: Thank you for doing so much to educate people regarding God's Law. I have learned a great deal from your show, and try to share that knowledge with as many people as I can. When someone tries to defend the homosexual lifestyle, for example, I simply remind them that Leviticus 18:22 clearly states it to be an abomination ... End of debate. I do need some advice from you, however, regarding some other elements of God's Laws and how to follow them.

1. Leviticus 25:44 states that I may possess slaves, both male and female, provided they are purchased from neighboring nations. A friend of mine claims that this applies to Mexicans, but not Canadians. Can you clarify? Why can't I own Canadians?

2. I would like to sell my daughter into slavery, as sanctioned in Exodus 21:7. In this day and age, what do you think would be a fair price for her?

3. I know that I am allowed no contact with a woman while she is in her period of Menstrual uncleanliness - Lev.15: 19-24. The problem is how do I tell? I have tried asking, but most women take offense.

4. When I burn a bull on the altar as a sacrifice, I know it creates a pleasing odor for the Lord - Lev.1:9. The problem is my neighbors. They claim the odor is not pleasing to them. Should I smite them?

5. I have a neighbor who insists on working on the Sabbath. Exodus 35:2 clearly states he should be put to death. Am I morally obligated to kill him myself, or should I ask the police to do it?

6. A friend of mine feels that even though eating shellfish is an abomination, Lev. 11:10, it is a lesser abomination than homosexuality. I don't agree. Can you settle this? Are there 'degrees' of abomination?

7. Lev. 21:20 states that I may not approach the altar of God if I have a defect in my sight. I have to admit that I wear reading glasses. Does my vision have to be 20/20, or is there some wiggle-room here?

8. Most of my male friends get their hair trimmed, including the hair around their temples, even though this is expressly forbidden by Lev. 19:27. How should they die?

9. I know from Lev. 11:6-8 that touching the skin of a dead pig makes me unclean, but may I still play football if I wear gloves?

10. My uncle has a farm. He violates Lev.19:19 by planting two different crops in the same field, as does his wife by wearing garments made of two different kinds of thread (cotton/polyester blend). He also tends to curse and blaspheme a lot. Is it really necessary that we go to all the trouble of getting the whole town together to stone them? Lev.24:10-16. Couldn't we just burn them to death at a private family affair, like we do with people who sleep with their in-laws? (Lev. 20:14)

I know you have studied these things extensively and thus enjoy considerable expertise in such matters, so I'm confident you can help. Thank you again for reminding us that God's word is eternal and unchanging.

Your adoring fan,

James M. Kauffman, Ed.D. Professor Emeritus, Dept. Of Curriculum, Instruction, and Special Education University of Virginia

(It would be a damn shame if we couldn't own a Canadian) :)

Rebecca read this amazing piece of work to me earlier, and I just had to share.

Foolishness!

Rumors have ABC Daytime cutting the number of episodes of its three dramas by twenty per year. If this does happen, expect classic episodes to air periodically. I just don't understand. Instead of cutting costs effectively by trimming unnecessary fat, and removing those blatantly misusing and abusing power, this is their solution? What a cruel joke. Nothing like hastening death.

Purse Thief!

My little buddy had a great time yesterday playing with purses. First, he hid so well in my mother's that I was afraid she was going to take him home without realizing. Later in the evening, Jamie came by to meet him, and an impromptu photo shoot happened. Don't know why he loves them, but might have to go buy a really cheap one to keep him happy.

You've Got To Be Kidding Me!

Just saw the latest All My Children promo, and got a little taste of bile in the back of my throat. Apparently, when David's lies are exposed, Greenlee goes running back to Ryan. The voiceover at the end exclaims "the reunion you've been waiting for." Unless that is directed to Brian Frons, it couldn't be more off the mark. I don't know one person who likes this coupling. Just because Cameron and Rebecca are friends in real life doesn't mean they have chemistry onscreen. How many times are the idiots in charge going to try to force this couple on the audience? It's just disgusting!

More Alexis!

Nancy Lee Grahn announced via Twitter that she has signed a new four year contract with ABC. I am very happy to see Alexis staying in PC. Always great when this phenomenal actress is on my screen.

What You Lookin' At?

Gotta love the giant eyes. Always so full of expression. He knows exactly what to do with them to get his way.

Umbrella...

Took me a while to form an opinion of the new regime, but I'm glad to report it's positive. They seem to be creating umbrella stories, and planning things in advance. Though it appears I'm one of the few, I'm really enjoying the Erica/Caleb/Cortlandt Electronics developments. I see nothing but great potential in the many directions these could go. I don't know if this is a possible pair, but Caleb and Opal have some good chemistry going on. Wonder how Palmer would feel if things happen the way I hope?

Christina Bennett Lind is wasting little time winning me over. Her Bianca is strong, self-assured, and assertive. It was obvious right out of the gate that Christina has acting ability. Quite a refreshing change from most new to daytime. Am excited to watch her mature, blossom, and take Bianca in a new direction. Hope the writing stays true to the character's core.

Thumbs up all around so far. It seems everyone involved with the show is working to keep it viable. I know we're still in the honeymoon phase with these new writers, but their material is far from a Pratt catastrophe. If you can inspire good performances from your actors, keep stories somewhat grounded in reality, and integrate everyone believably, it's all good with me.

Dillon!

Here is the first picture taken of Dillon Gargamel Fluffanutter Spangler. Isn't he just the absolute cutest kitten ever? Was exhausted from the long plane ride here, and the experience of exploring his new home. Love him so much already. Looking forward to many years of joy together.

Mysteries...

Have been getting back into Another World after a little bit of a lull. Am intrigued by a couple mysteries that are just starting. Who is the person sending those flowers to Cass? Honestly, my first thought is Sharlene. I can absolutely see her popping up alive just as Frankie and John commit to one another. Perfect, old-school soap. My second guess goes along those same lines. What if Kathleen returns to town with a renewed interest in Cass? I've said from the very beginning of watching that Kathleen was my first choice, and while I've warmed up to Frankie and Cass considerably, I still stand by my word. Can't wait to see who it turns out to be.

Special Prosecutor Kevin Andersen is connected to Jake somehow. Are they family? Former lovers? Enemies? Does it have something to do with Paulina? Whatever it is, I hope it turns into a big enough story arc to keep the gentleman portraying Kevin around. Like him very much.

I can't stand Paulina! She's an absolute scumbag. It's funny how quick she is to jump in Vicky's face about every little thing, but when Vicky points out that she plays just as dirty, she suddenly wants to leave the hot kitchen. Okay, I'll admit it. I've said it before. The biggest reason I have such an immense distaste for Paulina is Judi Evans. What a terrible actress! I've never seen her make a genuine choice, or opt for subtlety. Everything is as far over the top as possible. Hope I don't have to put up with her for the next eight years worth of show! Please! Before we leave this topic entirely, I would like to take a minute to speak directly to Jake and Grant. Please, oh please, remove your heads from your asses in regards to this woman and realize she is nothing but a stanky whore. You'll be surprise how greatly your lives improve once she isn't in them. Promise.

Martin Confirmed...

Ricky Martin has confirmed that he will be playing Che in the 2012 Broadway revival of Evita. While he wouldn't be my first choice, (or even a consideration for that matter), whomever made the decision must have seen something. I'm not thrilled with this, but nothing could keep me away!

Invasion And Initiation...

The ending of Raw this week was awesome. The rookies of the first season of NXT savagely invaded, and left utter destruction in their wake. I haven't been this excited about an angle in years. Seeing John Cena beat down so brutally was wonderful. Beyond that though, I'm proud of WWE for finally acknowledging the need to create new stars. At the end of the second season premiere of NXT the following night, the pros attacked the rookies as a show of solidarity. Two other possible motives come to mind. The first, a demand of respect. Second, to let them know that dues must be paid, and rules followed. If I were a pro, I would also set out to let them know that others in WWE refuse to live in constant fear of unprovoked attack, and implore them to let that stand as warning.

WWE could be sitting on a goldmine with this. Let's hope the followthrough delivers.

Favorites...

My two favorites have made it into the top ten this season. Billy Bell and Kent Boyd are amazing! I cannot wait to see them grow and mature as the weeks progress. While the other contestants are certainly deserving of their spots, I'm looking for these gentlemen to outshine the competition.

The Anticipation Is Killing Me!

Everyone say hello to my new Scottish Fold kitten! Okay, okay. I don't have him yet, but he'll be here in just three short weeks! I've waited such a long time for this! Can't believe it's actually happening! Here's the dilemma. I've been batting around two names, Sheamus and Fiyero. Unfortunately, when I saw this picture last night, neither name seemed to fit. I'm open to HUMAN NAME suggestions. Adorable, isn't he? Three weeks can't go by fast enough!

Good Stuff!

Promotional poster for the event I went to last night. Was awesome. I love being in a room full of people who feel the way I do about wrestling. It's an amazing feeling. Here are some of the pictures that were taken.

Meeting Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart was definitely cool.

Watching Awesome Kong totally destroy Mistress Belmont was awesome. Mistress can definitely take a beating.

This one is for Rebecca. She couldn't even concentrate on the match. :)

Very memorable. Can't wait till next time!

Another Nail...

So, Soapnet has officially been axed. What a shame! A large majority of the soap viewing public pointed to the network as a possible savior for the genre. I knew from the moment reality TV and useless throwaway movies became the focus, it was doomed. Oh, how I wish Brian Frons would have seen the amazing potential of the niche and fully committed. Canceled favorites like Ryan's Hope, Port Charles, and Another World were featured prominently at the start. Over time, they were relegated to slots after midnight. I'm convinced they were put in such positions to justify eventual discontinuation. I have always questioned why an original daytime drama was never attempted. Just foolishness. There's absolutely no hope for canceled soaps. One of the last hopes I had for survival is gone. Disgusting and sad.

Let Them Eat Cake!

So cute I had to upload both. She definitely enjoyed herself!

So You Think You Can?

The best reality series ever, So You Think You Can Dance, is back for a seventh season. Unfortunately, I missed the premiere due to my shitius DVR. From what I've seen thus far though, the bar is definitely high. Am going to do my best to refrain from picking a favorite until the top ten are announced. Will be lovin' every minute!

DVD?

While perusing Amazon earlier today, I found a very interesting item in the DVD section. A search for All My Children yielded an All My Children (1970 TVseries) result. Not going to lie, my heart skipped a beat. Is there actually hope for a release? Why would Amazon have it listed without knowing something? All very strange. This would definitely be a dream come true. Am going to do some research to see what I can dig up.

OMG!

I don't think I've ever seen anything more adorable!

Yet Another #1!

Congratulations, Barbra! One Night Only: Barbra Streisand And Quartet At The Village Vanguard-September 26,2009 has debuted at #1 on the DVD music chart! As if there were ever a doubt in my mind that it would! Wonderful!

Over The Limit Predictions...

Here are my predictions for Over The Limit.

John Cena over Batista
Big Show over Jack Swagger
Drew McIntyre over Kofi Kingston
CM Punk over Rey Mysterio
Edge over Randy Orton
Chris Jericho and The Miz over The Hart Dynasty
R. Truth over Ted DiBiase
Maryse over Eve

Same Girl, New Face...

Christina Bennett Lind will bring Bianca back to Pine Valley beginning June 14th. Erica's youngest daughter returns to town after hearing of her mother's disappearance. I wish Lind luck, but gaining acceptance from this viewer isn't going to be easy.

You Talkin' To Me?

So, the new headwriting duo has debuted. Actually, May 12th was the official date, but had to wait until I could get the screencap to write something. Any big changes this early on you ask? Only one that I can tell. Dialogue seems to have been dumbed down. Characters are repeating the same phrases several times in one conversation. In my opinion, this is a huge problem. Shitty dialogue detracts from the importance of any given situation. The viewer must be convinced that whatever is going on deserves full attention. This task is difficult to accomplish when conversations are unrealistic. Straighten up, guys!

One Night Only: Barbra Streisand And Quartet At The Village Vanguard-September 26, 2009

Let's shoot with the technical stuff out of the gate. Picture quality is Blu-ray worthy, if not 100%. Sound is just a half-step below, with a formidable attempt at an HD 5.1 mix. The loan special feature is short, cute, and ultimately unnecessary.

The intimate feel of the evening is apparent from the outset. After some cutesty introductions and stories, Barbra takes the spotlight. The majority of the set list for the performance is comprised of songs featured on her latest album, Love Is The Answer.

While Streisand's vocal ability is clearly diminishing due to her advancing age, she wisely manipulates the songs to accentuate her considerable strengths. If one were to close their eyes at select intervals, the ease with which this amazing performer floats on melodies and notes would astound. Comfortable, playful interaction with the audience only adds to the mostly incredible experience.

Leaves you with a warm, nostalgic feeling.

Undeserving!

Daytime Emmy nominations were announced today, and as much as it pains me to say this, with one exception, All My Children is completely undeserving of the ones it received.

Outstanding Lead Actress:
Bobbie Eakes (Krystal)

Outstanding Supporting Actor:
Ricky Paull Goldin (Jake)

Outstanding Drama Series

Outstanding Drama Series Writing Team

Outstanding Drama Series Directing Team

I'm not even going to waste time addressing the writing and drama series nominations. Absolute idiocy. As much as I love her, Bobbie Eakes did absolutely nothing to deserve her nomination. The directing team at AMC was not in top form at all in the eligible time period. The only person even remotely deserving of his nomination is Ricky Paull, and, quite honestly, he's got a hell of a fight on his hands. Hopefully All My Children shapes up enough next year to be deserving of whatever nominations come their way.

On Second Thought...

One Life To Live executive producer Frank Valentini is creating a new daytime drama! Yeah right, I wish. He is however penning webisodes that will feature characters from all three ABC Daytime soaps intermingling. The Idiots In Charge are promoting it as a dream come true for fans. At first thought, before you have time to really process the stupidity, you may think this is a fun, creative idea. I ask you this. Why isn't there buzz being created from these characters crossing over on the shows themselves? In the dying era we are in, you would think that any effort would be made to save the genre. Why waste time creating meaningless fluff web content when energy could be focused on the much more important issue? Start at the top and get heads rolling in every direction until problems are solved. I just don't understand any of this. Any.

My First Wrestlemania!

I had followed wrestling for many years before Wrestlemania 7, but the career ending match between The Ultimate Warrior and "Macho King" Randy Savage was the first match I ever remember being emotionally invested in. Unfortunately for me however, I was unable to watch it live as it happened on pay-per-view. The next day at school, my friend who had recorded it was gracious enough to lend me the tape. I remember not being able to concentrate on my studies because I was so excited to come home and see what had happened.

The matches leading up to Warrior/Savage were a complete blur. Nothing mattered except seeing who was forced to retire. Of course, being that I'm much older now and realize that retirements in wrestling can usually be chalked up to overdue vacation time, it's funny to look back and see how much I thought was riding on the outcome. Being young and taking things at face value is to be treasured.

Anyway, the moment I'd been waiting for had finally arrived. Before the two combatants were introduced, a highlight package was presented to remind the viewer of the key elements of the feud leading up to this final confrontation. At the conclusion of the package, announcers Bobby "The Brain" Heenan and Gorilla Monsoon gave one final push, in which they "discovered" Miss Elizabeth in the crowd, before the bell.

Savage, and manager Sensational Queen Sherri, made their way to the ring as only true royalty can, on a throne carried by muscular men. After some pre-match showboating by the duo, The Ultimate Warrior made his way to the ring at an uncommonly slow pace. I think this was a last-ditch, unnecessary effort to build anticipations that were already at a fever pitch.

The match seemed to last forever, with great back and forth. There were several occasions where I remember thinking it could legitimately go either way. Interference after interference by Queen Sherri, a seemingly endless assault of top rope elbow drops, and some other underhanded tactics seemed to reassure my unwavering, yet unpopular, belief that Randy Savage would emerge smelling of victory. In the end however, Warrior managed to pull out a decisive win.

I was devastated, but will never forget it. In my opinion though, Randy was ultimately the big winner as, in the end, he was reunited with Miss Elizabeth in one of the most emotional moments in wrestling history.

Quote Of The Moment...

"Writing's a process, words are just the final step."

-Write What You Know-The Story Of My Life

Good Boy!

Caught this one in a rare moment of quiet. Luke is usually on super speed. He's a good dog though, and great with his boys.

Peace Out, Scoybout!

The brother-in-law took this one yesterday. Love it! Can't believe the oldest nephew is going to be four. That's absolutely insane. Such fun at the farm yesterday.

Quote Of The Moment

"It's all real... if you don't tell them it's not."

-Jim Cornette

Extreme Rules

This is the best I've ever done with pay-per-view predictions. Here's how it all shook down.

Jack Swagger defeated Randy Orton
Sheamus defeated Triple H
CM Punk defeated Rey Mysterio
Edge defeated Chris Jericho
John Cena defeated Batista
The Hart Dynasty defeated Show Miz
Beth Phoenix defeated Michelle McCool
JTG defeated Shad Gaspar

I didn't include predictions for the women's match or the tag team gauntlet because they weren't listed on WWE.com when I posted.

The heavy hitters were all solid. In my opinion, Edge and Chris Jericho stole the show. The Hart Dynasty defeating Show Miz was predictable, but welcome. I was happy to see Jack Swagger get a decisive win over Randy Orton. Wonder how long he'll keep the strap. John Cena and Batista had a surprisingly good match... until the end. I've heard rumors that that was Batista's last match. If so, I would be heated to go out like that. Triple H and Sheamus fought hard, but the only thing that I remember clearly is the shower of Kendo Stick shots Sheamus took. Awesome!

Don't know if I'd watch it again, but definitely enjoyable.

If Only...

RVD is the new TNA World Heavyweight Champion. His matches against Jeff Hardy and AJ Styles on Impact stood as great examples of how awesome TNA's in-ring product can be. I must say though, I think it was very disrespectful to AJ for the locker room to empty in celebration of the change. Dixie Carter had absolutely no business among the boys. I'm not against the switch. I just don't have confidence in anything this company does. The lack of foresight is disturbing. Please, TNA, don't play hot potato with the belt. If only you had longterm storyline ideas in place..

Farewell!

Adam has officially left Pine Valley. I have to admit something. While I've absolutely loved the buildup to the exit, I was kind of disappointed with his final episode. If I had been writing, Adam would have found out about Annie and JR sooner, spent more time dealing with the fallout, and tried to mend fences. His rushed decision to leave seemed so out of place. The one other thing that really bugged me is the lack of goodbyes. David Canary and Michael E. Knight not sharing a final scene is preposterous. Adam and Tad have meant so much to one another in different ways over the years. What about Adam and Krystal? As much as I love me some Brooke, I'll always believe that Krystal and Adam belong together.

I wish David Canary all the best, and sincerely hope this isn't the last we've seen of Adam. There are too many loose ends that need tying.

Happy Birthday!

Happy 68th birthday to Barbra Streisand! Hope all your wishes come true!

Yay!

It was announced earlier today that CBS will air the Daytime Emmys this year. June 27, 2010, from 9-11 p.m. This is such awesome news! I wish ABC, who seems to have a fair amount of faith in their soaps, would have picked up the broadcast. Truthfully, though, I'm just ecstatic that I'll actually be able to see them.

Less Is More?

I've said for a long time that TNA and WWE should cut the number of pay-per-views they offer in half. This would allow time to develop richer, more intriguing storylines. More people are likely to buy if they are emotionally invested in a feud. In the long run, I think it would also go quite a ways in improving the bottom line for both companies. $40-$50 a month is a lot of money that a large portion of the audience can't afford to spend. Everyone wins this way, even if an initial hit is taken.

Extreme Rules Predictions...

Here are my predictions for Extreme Rules.

Jack Swagger over Randy Orton
Batista over John Cena
Edge over Chris Jericho
Sheamus over Triple H
CM Punk over Rey Mysterio
Shad Gaspard over JTG

I Hate Spam!

Though I'm not referring to the food in this case, I can't stand that much either. I open my email the other day to find nine or ten supposed blog comment notifications. Didn't take me long to figure out that they weren't legit. Some advertisements for a clothing store or something. It took me forever to go through and delete them. I just wish people would have more respect. It may seem silly, but I know I would never do that to someone. Just ridiculous!

May 12th...

Oh, how I wish I didn't have to write this. These last few months of All My Children, with Lorraine Broderick at the helm, have been pretty fantastic. David Kreizman and Donna M. Swajeski have officially taken the reigns, and will debut their work on May 12th. I won't pass judgment for a while, but their track records don't inspire confidence.

Working With What You Have...

Want to start off by saying how upset I was that my DVR didn't record anything again, and Tim and I had to watch Raw on the computer. Ridiculous technology!

Imagine my surprise when I heard Lillian Garcia's voice. Though it was for one night only, I was absolutely thrilled to see her back. Due to most of the Raw roster being stuck in Ireland because of the volcano, the show had a very thrown together feel. The opening segment featuring a confrontationn between Triple H and The Straight-Edge Society went way too long, and was obvious filler. In fact, nothing stood out until Jack Swagger's open challenge was answered by The Undertaker. The surprisingly well-paced, entertaining match that followed was a treat. It showed me that Jack Swagger may indeed be a great champion someday. The ability is definitely there. That match made the show for me. Would love The Undertaker to get drafted to Raw next week, and a feud between the two to start. Could be awesome.

With the exception of a few comedic moments, nothing else of any consequence happened. Seeing The Undertaker on Raw was definitely worth my time. Tim's face when the gong rang out was priceless.

Not Buying...

While I was definitely one of the first to champion a David/Greenlee pairing, their declaration yesterday was ridiculous. I'm supposed to believe that they've never loved anyone as much as each other? What the hell is that shit? Leo and Greenlee were made for one another. The understanding, commitment, and love between them was untouchable. In Anna, David found someone who truly accepted everything he is. No one has ever been a better match for the dastardly doc. I hate revisionist, suit-the-purpose-at-the-moment history. My apologies for going on this little rant, but I just couldn't let that pass without speaking up.

Janet's Back!

Kate Collins is returning to All My Children as Janet. Putting two and two together, I'm going to go ahead and guess that mommy dearest is Amanda's cyber-stalker. I hope she stays for a while before inevitably being carted off to the looney bin again.

Final Airdate...

Enjoy Adam while you can. David Canary will last air on April 23rd. This is just awful. I understand wanting to retire, but Pine Valley just isn't going to be the same.

:)

An adorable little snappy taken before the matches.

Begging For A Recast!

A dishonorable mention for Tyler Christopher as Nikolas on General Hospital. The scenes in the park with Spencer and Robin were so bad I literally had to turn away. With the way Tyler was delivering his lines, there were several times where I thought he may actually be a robot. Seriously. No emotion, blatant disinterest, glazed over eyes, the whole nine yards. How is this man still employed?

TRP And Other Awesomeness!

It's been so long since I've been to a Top Rope Promotions event that, when Tim asked me last week if I would want to go, I jumped at the chance. He then told me that Jake "The Snake" Roberts, Brutus "The Barber" Beefcake, and Axe from Demolition were headlining, making the opportunity even sweeter.

We decided to start things early by watching some matches to pump ourselves up. Rebecca then joined us for a late afternoon lunch, we came back, watched a few more matches, and then headed out. Was great that Kyle and Jeff met us there.

For the most part, I was very impressed with the matches. There was one exception though. Was extremely sad seeing "The Snake" in such terrible shape. I understand everyone needs a payday once in a while, but there comes a point where you have to realize that you just can't do it anymore, and it's embarrassing for fans to see you.

At intermission, Tim and I took a picture with Brutus. Luckily for me, Rebecca snapped a picture at the same time as the photographer. Thank God she did because, in the Polaroid, I look totally cracked out. Is so bad that I didn't even want to upload it to this post for fear of driving readers away. :) This one is much better.

A highspot-laden, and thoroughly enjoyable ladder match, and an awesome championship match ended the show. The end of the main event totally made me want to go see the triple threat match on June 4th. Good booking.

A Certain Swagger?

Okay, so, while I've made no secret of loving Jack Swagger, I have to question this sudden move to make him champion. I was stunned when he won Money In The Bank, but thought a big chunk of the year time constraint would be used to build his status and character. There's absolutely no way he's ready for this responsibility. He's terrible on the stick, his character needs a complete overhaul, and he's not even close to over. Sure, if the only qualifier for being champion were great in-ring work, he might be able to carry it off. Unfortunately, it's not. There's no doubt in my mind that The All-American American American deserves a shot someday, but it's all happening too fast. I just hope this title run isn't followed by an endless string of defeats. There's no quicker way to bury a career.

Husband Number 11?

Michael Nouri has been cast in the contract role of Caleb McGraw. Described as a mountain man, the character is slated to be a love interest for Erica. Look for a first appearance on May 24th.