New Year's Resolutions 2012

Well New Year's Resolutions have never been my strong point, so his year I am going to set measurable targets instead of vague generalities. Let's see how that goes.

1) I need to loose weight,,,have needed this for years. My main problem is I am an opportunity eater...If the opportunity arises I eat. So, to help lose weight I make the following resolutions. a) no snacking on pizza at Domino's NONE!. b) No more stops for Fast food between jobs (NONE!!) c) only 1 order of food from Domino's each week (this does not include drinks) d) pass on family deserts...just say no to cheesecake &/or cobbler. I think if I can do these, I should lose some weight.

2) I need to read more. I promise to spend at least 1 hour a week in reading....turn off the TV and read.

3) I need to write more. I will spend at least 2 hours a week writing, I will finish my short stories "The Sentry" and "Station 38" I will work on my Novel and my young adult novel. I will enter at least 1 writing contest every 2 months. MUST WORK on writing!

4) I will blog more. I will post at least 3 blogs on "Growing Old Gracefully" and 1 blog on "Call Me When You Find America" each week.

These are my resolutions...I will post monthly updates to see how we're doing.


HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Top 5 movies of 2011

2011 was a great year for movies. Early on in the year I was describing it as the year of Sci-Fi, and for a good portion of the summer most of my top 5 movies were science fiction films. But some great late summer through early winter releases have left only on science fiction film in the top five. I think you will be surprised by my list. Hope you enjoy.

Spoiler alert many of the clips do give away major plot elements, especially #4 and #1, so don't watch if you haven't seen the movie!

#5) Seven Days in Utopia-- This little film is something I just stumbled into when searching for a second feature on a movie day Distributed by Disney it is a really heartwarming film the whole family can enjoy. It is about a young golfer who finds their is more to success than winning. Robert Duvall is amazing, as the wise old golfer who teaches valuable life lessons to the young golfer. Definitely worth the rent to watch this one.


#4) The Adjustment Bureau -- The only Sci-Fi movie remaining in the top 5. This is based on a story by Phillip K. Dick (Minority Report, Blade Runner, Next) it is by far my favorite adaptation of a Dick work, mainly because it is such an interesting concept. Men in fedoras (and other hats) who follow people around making sure we stick to "The Plan" as laid out by "The Chairman". A great tale of fate versus free will. Whether you see the chairman as a god figure, are just the hand of fate, whether the bureau are angels, or just agents of fate, this is an intriguing story. The clip is the final scene, so dom't watch if you haven't seen it:


#3 HUGO-- this film is simply enchanting. A look back at early 20th century cinema, and how movies create a doorway into dreams and magic. I went in expecting a good movie, but came out amazed. Visually stunning, with lots of effects for the 3D version. I saw the flat 2D version, and it was magical in itself, I'm sure the 3D would amaze even more. The acting is amazing, from the new-comers playing the children to Oscar winner Ben Kingsley (Ghandi) as French filmmaker Georges Melies and Sacha Bron Cohen (whom I normally cannot stand). Each performance is fantastic. The only clip I could find is the trailer, go see this film, it may lose magic as it transitions to smaller at home screens.


#2) Soul Surfer-- This true life drama of Bethany Hamilton, the teenage girl who loses her arm to a shark attack as an amazing story of courage. Annasophia Robb does an excellent job portraying the anguish and questioning that arise as Bethany must adapt to the loss of her arm, and possibly her surfing dreams. Dennis Quaid and Helen Hunt play the parents, and Carrie Underwood makes her acting debut as a church youth leader. These may not be Oscar winning performances, but this is still a great movie, especially for teens who are facing obstacles in life.


#1) The Help, a hilarious, and heartwarming look at the treatment of the black housekeeper in the south in the 1960's. This film will make you think, make you cry, and in the case f the scene below (SPOILERS) make you laugh like crazy. This clip was obviously recorded in a theatre because you can hear the audience respond as the humorous incident is revealed. I see several Oscar nods coming for this film.


Happy New Year and I hope you've enjoyed these lists.

Top 5 CD's of 2011

As you probably know, if you know me at all, music is my passion, and this category is my most thought out each year. It is a list I have made for years even before I had a blog on which to share it. This years choices run the gamut of styles, and experiences from a brand new artist discovered on a competition show, to a veteran who has been recording music longer than I've been alive. So lets get started.

#5) Landau Eugene Murphey Jr.--That's Life: My list had four strong choices, with several other CD's fighting for the #5 spot. Then an early December release by America's Got Talent winner Landau Eugene Murphey Jr, sweeps to claim the spot. When he auditioned for the show he was working at a carwash. He took the stage with dread locks flowing, and the judges, and most Americans I'm sure were expecting some kind of awful singing to come out. But as Susan Boyle had proved in England, talent comes in strange packaging. Murphey belted out Sinatra and Bennett standards like they were written for him. And on this CD he does it again with a selection of Sinatra standards. Produced by Steve Tyrell, this is an amazing disc, and only $7.99 on iTunes


#4) The Civil Wars-- Barton Hallow: This is one of this years critical favorites, and I'm sure on several lists more important than mine. When this disc was released the title track was a free download on iTunes one week so I checked it out, and it was pretty good. Joy Williams, the female voice in this duo was I name I knew from her CCM background. I later found out this was produced by music genius Charlie Peacock, so I knew I had to have it....but for some reason it took several months to get around to downloading it. Not a cheerful fun album, but very fitting fr the general mood of the country this year. Unique bland of folk and country. Listen to it once, put it away for a week or two, then come back to it and really indulge. If you aren't sure you want to invest in this album, there is a live version that has most of he same songs available for free on Noisetrade,com that can give you a taste.


#3)Paul Simon-- So beautiful or So What? : Paul Simon has been writing and performing amazing music for half a century. He is 70 years old now, and has 2011 release is totally amazing. With styles reaching back to the Simon & Garfunkel days as well as to the Graceland era. The lyrical content is amazing, his poetry as bright and witty as ever. There is a spiritual tone about this album that utterly draws me in. You must have this CD and play it over & over. This video is a live performance of the title track. Did I mention this man is 70!


#2) The Hawk in Paris-- His+Hers: I stumbled into this CD on Twitter. Singer Derek Webb had posted about a free download on Noisetrade by a new group fronted by Jars of Clay singer Dan Haseltine. I quickly went and downloaded it (The entire EP was available free for only 1 week). Trust me, I would have been willing to pay full price after listening. This is an amazing lyrical and sonic journey. Musically it feels to me what Pink Floyd would be doing if they still made music. Lyrically it is a look at romantic relationships from every point in the relationship. I could talk all day about this EP, but you just need to listen for yourself. This video isn't really a video, just a great chance to sample a track. Be ready to see several tracks from this album on my iPod playback blog after the new year.


#1) Christina Perri-- Lovestrong: Her Jar of Hearts single was 2010 most played song on my iPod. Her debut full album LOVESTRONG is a powerful collection of love and love-gone-wrong songs. Her writing is amazingly thoughtful, and her voice is just plain amazing. This is her year for sure. Oh, and the songs are clean, no bad words except one song that asks "How the hell...", and nothing sexual or nasty. Look for lots of these tracks on the iPod playback as well.

Top 5 TV moments of 2011

I begin this years top 5 lists with a list of 2011's top TV moments. It is no secret to most of my friends that I am a TV junkie. Finding 5 highlights was a tricky task, as I probably cold have found a top 10, but I'm sticky with 5.
#5. The premiere of New Girl on Fox-- My favorite actress (one of them anyway) Zooey Deschanel comes to network TV in an infectiously sweet and slightly corny, slightly sexy new comedy. One of this years big new hits.
#4. Scotty McCreery apologizes for kicking Jacee out of group. --American Idol Group week is always one of the shows hardest weeks. During this years group week Jacee was kicked out of his group at midnight, forcing him to find another group. When Scotty and the rest of the group got on stage, Scotty apologized for not sticking up for Jacee. This showed the spirit Scotty had, that made him a winner all season long.
#3. The Birth of Melody Pond on Doctor Who-- Amy (The Doctor's Best companion ever) has a baby, who we will eventually find to be the mysterious River Song. One of the best Doctor Who episodes.

#2. America's Got Talent Silhouttes top 48 performance-- This very uniques dance team does a beautiful performance to God Bless America...Some may say it is sappy and over patriotic...I'm sorry, I'm over patriotic, so sue me!
These five were all great TV moments, but nothing on TV this past year compares with our #1. It leaves me breathless every time I see it, and I have it on my ipod so I can watch it whenever I want.
#1 Melanie Moore leaps across the stage during Total Eclipse of the Heart. Just watch...

Entering the home stretch, 1 year to go (Bucket list update)

It's been 2 years since I published my Bucket List in preparation for the world ending in 2012 (the whole December 2012 Myan calendar thing). I have been lax giving you updates through this year, sorry. Now with about 1 year left, I am updating and revising my bucket list. The original post text will be blue, last years comments are in green, with this year's revisions in red.
Steve's Bucket List:
1} Finish writing my novel and get it published. This is a long-time goal, and now the end of the world is just giving me motivation to work faster. Well, my Kickstarter project this past spring was unsuccessful, so working on back up plan now.
2}Take a guitar lesson from Orianthi. She is the amazing guitarist from the Michael Jackson THIS IS IT movie, and to just spend an hour learning from her would be amazing. She is busy touring with Alice Cooper now, but I'm sure she'll get back to me after the tour. I'll be checking in with her on Twitter after the holidays, sure she'll respond this time.
3} Spend a month traveling in England and Ireland. I figure it would take at least a month to find all the historical, but not touristy spots. Still waiting for financing...come on LOTTO!!! (No change here).
4} Star in, or direct a movie with Zooey Deshanel. Maybe my friend Beau could produce it. She is one of my favorite actresses, and I'd love to work with her. Talks are still delayed by me having no way to contact Zooey, she doesn't Twitter enough...might need to switch to Rachel Nichols, she has responded to multiple tweets, and seems cool. Well, Zooey has started tweeting more, but has yet to respond to me, and Rachel is still responding, so I am hereby officially changing this to "Star in, or direct a movie with Rachel Nichols. Also to get bucket list down to 10 items, I am combining #8 in here, and adding have lunch/coffee with Rachel Nichols, since she responds more than Ashley Greene. Well, Rachel hasn't been responding much lately, so ...still on hold, no progress...oh well!
5} Spend a day at the park with just my kids and my parents. Sounds easy enough, but if you understood my family situation, you'd know this is probably the wildest thing on my list. Still no progress to report here.
6} Write a song with Taylor Swift. I'd let her sing it, since my voice would make people pray for the end of the world. plus with her singing it would be a sure hit. New album out, big huge world tour in the works for next year, plus Jake is kinda in the way now, so not looking good, but still hopeful. I hear she's back in the studio working on new stuff, so this may be the right time for the approach...we'll see.
7} Get together and hang out for at least part of a day catching up with as many of my Facebook friends as I can. Since my Toyota friends I can see any time, I won't count those, sorry. Not much progress on this one since last January when I ran into a bunch of old friends at the Crumbacher show.
8} (becoming part of #4)} Have lunch or dinner with Ashley Greene (from Twilight). Her character is so sweet, and from what I hear, she is too. See #4 above (although I'd still keep the Ashley option open)The new #8 (formerly 11)}To see a sunrise and sunset on every continent. Well, could probably skip Antarctica. Still stuck on North America...as with England trip, waiting on financing...Come on lotto!!! still nothing on the travelling front....
9} Spend a month on tour with U2. Maybe get invited up onstage by Bono. U2 will be touring US again this year...hoping to get a chance to talk with them about the options. Missed that chance...still hoping.
10} Take a dance lesson from one of my favorite Dancing with the Stars pros, either Lacey Schwimmer, Chelsie Hightower, or Julianne Hough. Things not looking great here, Lacey hasn't been spending as much time in her dad's Redlands studio lately, or at least not tweeting about it. Well, not alot of improvement here, but I want to add Melanie Moore and Lauren Froderman to my list...making it so much more possible...yeah, sure.

Where have I been?

Well, it has been a very long time since I posted any blogs, and I am sorry. I blame this in part on a computer that seems to have caught a bit of a virus, making any task take forever. I blame it also on stress from increasing financial strain, leading to longer working hours, and more frequent dozing off before I can get anything done.

M lack of blogging may also be blamed in part on the increasing health strains of my parents. They are both in their 80's now, so I am trying to look in on them more often when possible. Pray for them please.

But alas, most of it comes down to the fact that I haven't had much to say. But to let you know, I am planning my top 5 lists for years end (This years categories will be CD's, TV moments, and movies). Also will update the bucket list, with only a year till the end of the world (according to Myan calendar) and of course my top 25 most played songs on the ipod for 2011. Stay tuned for all this excitement...if you can handle it!!

GLEE PROJECT: Changing the Rules on TV competitions

Ok, so it's been a while since I posted, but here I go. Want to talk to you about one of my summer's guilty pleasures, the Glee Project. This was a reality show from the producers of GLEE. The prize in this competition was a 7 episode story arc on the hit show GLEE. Now a cynical mind might look at this and say, "Wow, the producers of GLEE just found a way to make advertisers pay for their audition process!!" ...Yes, I said that at first...yet somehow, I kept watching.

From the start this was different from most competition shows. There was no audience vote or tribal council deciding who went home each week. The final decision rested on producer Ryan Murphey along with Robert Ulrich (GLEE casting director) and Zach Woodlee (choreographer). Each week contestants would work on the assignments given them, and be observed by Ulrich and Woodlee. The 3 performers they felt needed the most work would perform solos for Murphey, and one of these 3 were cut. And for most of the season things rolled smoothly.

But as things went on, reality show rules began to be broken. In episode 7 Cameron Mitchell, an outspoken Christian throughout the competition withdrew, sighting his convictions that some aspects of the sexuality involved in the show might make him uncomfortable, and that the competitors who were more willing to face these situations should be given the chance to go on. Ryan Murphey actually tried to convince him to stay on, but he held firm, saving Damian McGinty, who had been Ryan's choice to send home that week. I was very impressed both with Cameron's convictions, and with the respect Ryan and the other judges showed for these convictions. (Side note: lots of viewers apparently liked Cameron's convictions also, as he won the online-voted Fan Favorite prize of $10,000).

Reality show rules were again broken on episode 9. This is the point where the final 4 were supposed to be cut down to the final 3 for the final competition episode. But when it came to the final call back, Ryan had chosen to keep all four of the final four and move them all into the finals. I guess when you're the shows producer as well as a judge you can do that.

But the biggest rule-breaking came during the reveal of the winner after the final competition episode. Remember that the prize is a 7 week story arc on Glee. At the end of the final show all four contests are standing before the judges, waiting for their dreams to be crushed. First the judges tell Alex and Lindsay that they are not the winners. At this point I'm sure they wanted to run off the stage and cry, but they were told to just step back. The judges then spoke to Damian and Samuel. Ryan tells Samuel that he has won the Glee project. There is the usual jumping up and down and congratulations. After a few moments of this, Ryan talks with Damian (a young sweet Irish kid) Damian is very gracious saying he is sad, but glad for Samuel...Ryan then tells him that he has also won a 7 episode arc....breaking the rules...2 winners. But the rule breaking doesn't stop there. Ryan next calls Alex (who is in drag by the way) and Lindsay back up and tells them that they were so great as well, so he has something for them too. Each of them won a 2 episode arc on GLEE. So in all, four winners!! I loved this show, just like I love GLEE..hope Oxygen brings it back next summer.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 30

All Time Favorite Movie:
LORD OF THE RINGS (all 3)
I know I used this already, but they are the greatest movies...I love them SO much..So good. And in this scene Xmen meet Star Wars (if you are a big geek like me you'll understand this)

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 29

An upcoming release you are dreading:
Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol
Do we really need an aging Tom Cruise smashing around to save the world...I feel a Indian Jones..Crystal Skull moment coming...But JJ Abrams worked on this film, so it may be ok after all.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 28

Upcoming release You are most looking Forward to:
Footloose
I was going to post the Twilight Breaking Dawn trailer, then I realized I am more excited to see the upcoming Footloose remake...I love Julianne Hough and can't wait to see this movie.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 27

Least Favorite Movie from a Comic book:
Watchmen
The previews intrigued me, I was expecting awesomeness, I got misogynistic violence, unneeded nudity, and just plain bad acting. Do Not Watch this film:

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 26

Favorite Movie From a Comic book:
The Dark Knight
Heath Ledger is amazingly demented as the Joker in this dark tale from Gotham City. This is just a short scene, go watch the whole movie:

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 25

Favorite Movie from a Book:
Lord of the Rings (all three movies)
These epic films are so amazing, from even more amazing books. Unfortunately most of the youtube scenes are not embedable, so you'll have to settle for this clip video:

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 24

Least favorite movie based on a cartoon:
The Flintstones Viva Rock Vegas
The First Flintstones move was all right, but the this "prequel" was beyond lame. First mistake was replacing the "B" list cast of the first film with a "C" list crew. Hint when casting a Balswin, never choose Billy...sorry.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 23

Favorite Movie from a cartoon:
Underdog
As a rule, I hate movie made from cartoons, so calling this a favorite just means I hate it less than most.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 22

Least Favorite Movie Sequel:
Batman And Robin
George Clooney taking over the cape, Uma Thurman, Arnold Schwarzeneger (sp) what could possibly go wrong?? EVERYTHING!! No wonder they put the series on hold for quite a while after this film. Hint, I saw it on Friday night, opening weekend and I was the ONLY person in the theater.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 21

Favorite Movie Sequel:
Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back
From the mysterious "Episode V" in the title sequence, to Han Solo being frozen in carbonite, to the secret revealed in this scene This is just an amazing movie:

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 20

Least Favorite Movie Remake:
Arthur (2011)
I loved the original so much I can't even imagine Russell Brand in the Dudley Moore roll. No I haven't seen it, and even Jennifer Gardner in to doesn't make me want to.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 19

Your favorite movie Remake:
Planet of the Apes 2001
With another Ape movie out this year, I'm digging out my copy of Tim Burton's great redo of the 1968 classic:

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 18

Last Movie You Downloaded:
Across the Universe
I don't download much, but I felt this beautiful movie was worthy of keeping on my iPod. A huge fan of the Beatles' music, it was a natural for me to like. Plus Evan Rachel Wood is at her best in his film.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 17

Last Movie you bought on DVD:
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1
Bought it for Dakotah, who has become a huge Harry Potter fan, along with as my wife and I.
Although there are many special effects and action scenes, I prefer the human moments like this scene.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 16

The First Movie You Saw in the Cinema:
Fiddler on the Roof
I'm not sure this was the first movie I saw in the Theater, but it is the first vivid memory of going to the theater. We went as a whole family, as far as I remember. It was at The River Oaks Theater in Calumet City, back when it was only 1 theater. It was a luxury theater with high, comfy seats, and a hug wrap around screen, with probably 3 curtains. (This was the Theater I would later see all 3 Star Wars movies, ET, and Grease to name just a few younger day memories). In Fiddler I remember loving the music, and I remember it had an intermission. But mostly I remember how much this scene scared me as a young boy (maybe 6 years old I think)

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 15

The First Movie You Remember watching
Wizard of Oz
Not sure how I old I was the first time I saw this on TV. I just remember thinking it was longer than most TV shows. And that green lady scared the poop out of me.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 14

I Movie that No one Would Expect You to Love:
Letters to Juliet
Amanda Seyfried, who was star of my Least favorite recent movie early in the countdown, more than makes up for that bomb in this wonderful romantic love story. Yes, I am a sap for a good romantic love story. I had to spend hours convincing my family they would like it. Now one of my wife and moher-in-law's favorite, to.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 13

A Movie With Your Least Favorite Actor:
I Am Sam
I think this is probably an amazing movie, and Sean Penn my be a good actor, but my dislike of his personality and behaviour makes it impossible for me to enjoy any movie he is in. Also a very early performance by Dakota Fanning...sister Elle played the younger version of Dakota's character. Both have grown into very good actresses.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 12

A Movie With Your Favorite Actor
Forrest Gump
Tom Hanks may not be the greatest actor alive, but he makes good characters that you can attach to. This is one of the sweetest movies, and this is my favorite scene.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 11

A movie from your favorite Director:
This Is Spinal Tap
Who would have guessed that Meathead from All in The Family would grow up to be a good movie director. Never would have thought, wow, he's my favorite director, until I start listing his movies: Princess Bride, This Is Spinal Tap, American President, Alex and Emma... the ist goes on. But besides Princess Bride, which already has 2 mentions in my 30 day challenge, Spinal Tap is byfar my favorite...and here's my favorite scene...sorry for poor picture quality, but the ones with good quality had embedding blocked.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 10

A Movir You Like to Fall Asleep To:
Running Scared
I don't know if it's so much I LIKE to fall asleep to this film. it's just that every time I go to watch it, I end up falling asleep. I should love this film, Billy Crystal, Chicago...should be plenty to keep me up, but I can't stay awake.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 9

A Movie that Makes You Laugh:
Monty Python & the Holy Grail
All things Python make me laugh, bu this is doubtless the funniest movie ever. Just look at the Black Knight scene, if you aren't rolling in laughter, you have no sense of humor.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 8

A movie in your favorite Genre:
Star Wars (Episode IV A New Hope)
This is the film that got me really into science fiction...(so glad there is a bunch of decent Sci Fi movies this year). Here is a very early trailer from the first Star Wars movie (before its subtitle was added). So enjoy!!! (could I use any more parentheses in this blog post?)

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 7

A Movie that you love to Quote:
Princess Bride
Okay, I know this was yesterdays movie, but I must use it again for this category. All I need to do is post any line from this on Facebook, and the quotes in the comment spot keep coming! Unfortunately most of the best clips on YouTube won't allow embedding, but I did get this great scene:

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 6

A Movie that reminds you of somewhere/some time:
The Princess Bride
This movie, which will appear a few more times in this challenge (sorry if that bothers you) reminds me of senior year at Wheaton when this movie was out, and I saw it repeatedly with Dwight, Dawn, Stacy, Catherine and anyone else who would come along to see it, Great times, great movie!!

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 5

A movie that reminds you of someone:
500 Days of Summer.
Ok, so it wasn't 500 days, and not as intimate, but I definitely can relate. Love this movie!!

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 4

A Movie That Makes You Sad:
Return to Me
Although you might not be able to tell from the trailer this romantic "comedy" has some very dark heavy themes. The death of the leading man's wife, and then..wat, I can't tell you if you haven't seen it. i love this movie, but it is sad too.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 3

A movie that makes you Happy:
Juno
This is such a sweet story about a teenage girl who gets pregnant and decides to have the baby and put it up for adoption. Ellen Page was nominated for an Oscar for this and Diablo Cody won one for best original screenplay. And hey, it uses the word shenanigans, which is just a cool word!

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 2

Your Least Favorite Movie:
Red Riding Hood
I'm going with my least favorite movie of 2011 (so far). I thought this looked kinda good, and I like Amanda Seyfried. But, I'm sorry this movie was horribly bad.

30 Day Movie Challenge Day 1

Last Movie you watched:
Harry Potter And the Deathly Hallows Pt 2
Actually saw this as the middle feature on a 3 movie day, but didn't want to put up clips from Friends with Benefits. Besides The Potter film was decidedly the best of the three. A fantastic ending to a great series.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 30

Your favorite Song (it's probably changed since day 1):
Christina Perri- Miles
Okay, the song is different, but the artist is the same. This is such a great album, really most of the songs could be my favorite at any moment. But I love the twist in this song on the last verse.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 29

A random song (just choose one):
Lou Reed-- Walk on the Wild Side
Always dug the bass groove on this song. Enjoy!

30 Day Song Challenge Day 28

A song that annoys you:
Five For Fighting-- 100 years
A pretty piano part does not cover the whining voice, and depressing lyrics about growing older. Plus the fact that kodak, or someone used it in a commercial less than a year after it was on the charts...ick!

30 Day Song Challenge Day 27

A song that makes you happy:
The Call-- Let The Day Begin
Probably to me one of the most joyous songs in rock music. I had not seen this ideo until I went searching for it for this challenge. The sad thing is that it was loaded on youtube a year ago, and has less than 1000 views (when I found it). let's send it viral, in memory of Michael Been (lead singer of The Call who passed away last year). Yes, the song makes me happy, despite the less than happy the of the blog.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 26

A song beginning with the word "you":
Elvis Costello -- New Amsterdam.
Wasn't sure if the challenge was asking for a title starting with "you" or lyrics starting with "you", so I went with the lyrics. Probably my favorite obscurish Elvis Costello song.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 25

A song that starts with the same letter as your last name:
Tori Amos-- Desperado
The song is of course an Eagles classic, but I just found Tori's version really Haunting. Let me know what you think.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 24

A song that starts with the same letter as your first name:
Jim Sturgess-- Something (from Across the Universe Soundtrack)
I love the song Something, and I chose the soundtrack version over the Beatles classic, just because I think it is such a sweet scene from the movie. Don't be offended please by the brief nudity.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 23

A song by someone you hate:
Lady Gaga-- Paparazzi
Ok, hate is such a strong word, I don't HATE lady gaga, just think she is WAY over-rated. And I odn't cae what she says, she was NOT born ith weird horn protrusions.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 22

Last song on your favorite album:
Pink Floyd-- Eclipse
Due to choosing Dark Side Yesterday as the favorite album, this is of course the Last song on the album..kinda creepy video:

30 Day Song Challenge Day 21

The first song on your favorite album:
Pink Floyd-- Breathe
Favorite in terms of music is so relative and changing due to mood. But for this 30 day challenge I chose Dark Side of the Moon as my favorite album. Here is Breathe from Live 8.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 20

A song from your favorite film:
Kimya Dawson-- Loose Lips
Ok, technically, my favorite film is Lord of The Rings, but not a huge lot of songs in it to choose from. Juno however is my favorite film with a cool soundtrack, and this is my favorite song from the soundtrack...adult language warning but a funny song.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 19

Your BFF's favorite song:
Tie AC/DC -- Thunderstruck ans AC/DC You Shook Me All Night Long
First of all when you're an old dude like me, you have no BFF, so I sent out a message to 5 of my best friends asking for their favorite song. Two of them, my cousin Cheryl (who was one of mybest friends growing up) and Vance (y best friend in High School) answered back. What's funny is they answered within an hour of each other, and both picked AC/DC songs, So I decided to put them both here. Enjoy rockin' out:

30 Day Song Challenge Day 18

A song you want played at your funeral:
Queen-- Another One Bites The Dust
Strange question..a song you want played at your funeral...stranger still I have had this song picked out as my funeral song since High School. Again, my wife will undoubtedly over rule me; so if you are a true friend, come to the funeral with your boom box and blast this song at the graveside service!

30 Day Song Challenge Day 17

The song I would have liked to dance to for the first dance at my wedding:
Ok, we had no dancing at my wedding...conservative Baptist background kind of prevented that... but if we had, this beautiful song would have been my choice...my wife would have overruled it, but this is MY song challenge, and my choice!

30 Day Song Challenge Day 16

Last Song you heard:
Christina Perri-- Jar of Hearts
Shuffling through Christina on the way home last night, this is the last song I heard. Still as amazing as the first time I heard it a year ago. Love Love Love this song:

30 Day Song Challenge Day 15

A song by the performer at the last concert you went to.
Crumbacher-- Jamie
One of my favorite 80's bands, they had a reunion concert in January. Still sound as hot as ever. Their drummer works with me. Check out how young Jimmy Wisner looks in this video!!

30 Day Song Challenge Day 14

A strange song:
Rockapella-- Zombie Jamboree
I first heard this sing on the soundtrack to Spike Lee's Do it Acapella. It was strange then, and is still strange in this concert video....Enjoy!

30 Day Song Challenge Day 13

A song you can't help liking:
Journey or Glee Cast-- Don't Stop Believing
It's just a good, catchy tune. So glad Glee brought it to a new generation.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 12

A Song that reminds you of someone you hate:
John Williams-- Darth Vader's theme (Imperial March)
Hate is such a strong word, so I had to delve into the movie world for this one.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 11

A Song that reminds you of a friend:
Monty Python (Eric Idle)-- Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life
This song reminds me of my friend Carol. I introduced her to Monty Python through Spamalot. This is a very fun & funny song. No offense intended in the video clip from Life of Brian.:

30 Day Song Challenge Day 10

A song that reminds you of a family member:
Johny Mathis -- Chances Are
Growing up in my house, Johnny Mathis was my first musical memory. My mother loves Johnny so much, has been a fan as long as I remember. Every time I hear this song come on at a mall, or anywhere, I think of mom.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 9

A song by someone that inspires you:
U2- Magnificent
Not sure when I saw today's topic if it was a song that inspired you, or an artist that inspires you, so I chose a video that fulfills both:

30 Day Song Challenge Day 8

A song that gets stuck in your head all the time:
Elton John -- Benny & The Jets
I don't know if it's the "Ba-Ba-Ba-Benny and the jets" or the "She has electric Boobs" (you know that's what you thought it said when you were young), but this catchy song gets stuck in the head all the time...even now as I add the video.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 7

A Song you HATE:
Sugarland-- Stay
I used to like Sugarland. Thought their first album was pretty good. The second album was ok, until this song came out. A song about a mistress bagging the man she is having an affair with to forget his wife and stay with her. Jennifer Nettles whining vocals just make me sick. Can't listen to this song, or anything they've done since. The video has over 18 million views, so I guess a lot of people don't agree with me...oh well.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 6

A Song that Makes You Laugh:
Taylor Swift --Speak Now
Not sure how this category is much different from day 4, but hey, any excuse to play a Taylor Swift video. :-) There is now "official video" for this song yet, but this is a good performance clip, I think from Letterman (or Craig...something on CBS).

30 Day Song Challenge Day 5

A Song that makes you cry:
Keith Green-- Asleep in the Light
The Song came from Keith Green's sophomore album No Compromise. This song near the end of side was so powerful, I literally played the first side of the album for 3 days straight before I could pull myself away and turn the record over to play side two. This video is a live recording from Jesus West Coast '82 concert. I am not sure of the date of the concert, but I know that summer of '82 Keith was killed in a plane crash. His music is still as gripping and powerful today.

I'm just sayin' (part 2)

Happy 4th of July! As we celebrate America and freedom today I just want to say thank you to the brave men and women who daily put their lives on the line to help keep our country safe and free-- our military. When I was younger I always thought of the military as the older generation, who fought in World War II and Korea and Viet Nam. Then when I was in college some of my friends were in the ROTC and I saw the military as my own generation. But lately I have been encounter a lot of vets who are just kids (in the eyes of this middle aged man). I meet people and they tell me they are just back from serving in Iraq or Afgahnistan (sp) and they look to me like they should just be out having fun with there friends, or studying for a big exam. And all I can do is say "Thank You" and realize that despite what a lot of media may show, there are some youth today who do have focus, and respect and a sense of purpose. And our freedom and safety now rests in the hands of a younger generation.

Today as we celebrate the 4th, please take the time to say a prayer for those you know serving in the military. And pray for those you don't know also, because somewhere there is a friend, a wife, a mother fearing for the safety of their loved one. ...I'm just sayin'

30 Day Song Challenge Day 4

A song that makes you smile:
Sarah Darling-- Something to do with Your Hands
A cute funny little country song. Enjoy!

30 Day Song Challenge Day 3

The First Song you ever heard:
Jesus Loves Me
Growing up in a Christian household this is pretty much guaranteed to be the first song you remember hearing. Thought this was an adorable video version.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 2

The first song you heard by your favorite artist:
U2- Sunday Bloody Sunday
My favorite band since college has been U2 when I first saw this live from Red Rocks video I was amazed at the strength and power of Bono's voice. Funny story--once when I was at home watching the Rattle and Hum video, and my Grandma Bell, who was living with us at the time came walking out from a nap during the intro to this song, right at the point where Bono shouts out, "F*%# the revolution!"...Try explaining what a great band U2 is to your Grandma after she hears that.

30 Day Song Challenge Day 1

Your Favorite Song (at the moment):
Christina Perri --Arms
For last year Jar of Hearts was my most played song of the year, So far this year her follow up single Arms is right there on top. Very creative video also. GREAT ALBUM TOO!!! download it please.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 30

Favorite Episode of Any TV Show EVER:

Vincent and the Doctor from season 5 of the 21st century version of Doctor Who.

This is the only epissode of a show that I have on my iPod, and have watched several times already. The Doctor and Amy travel back in time and meet Vincent VanGogh. Couldn't find the straight scene I wanted to show, where the Doctor brings Vincent to a museum to show him the popularity of his art now. But I have two videos with clips from the show. The first one is the video I would have made if I had a good movie editing program, featuring Don McLean's Vincnt. The second features the song that was in the museum scene on the program.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 29

A TV show I never miss:

Dancing with the Stars

The family started watching with Season 1, I got hooked during season 4 when a little blonde named Julianne joined the pros and took Apollo Ohno to the championship:

30 Day TV Challenge Day 28

Least favorite TV Channel:

OWN

As if we hadn't had enough Oprah in her "final year" give her her own network...ugh!

30 Day TV Challenge Day 27

Favorite TV Channel:

BBC America

Two Words-- Doctor Who...what more is there to say.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 26

Favorite scene from a TV show:

Bohemian Rhapsody/ Quinn gives birth from GLEE.

this was/is groundbreaking television. Unfortunately FOX took all the good copies off youtube, only this poor sound/video quality is available, it's still good TV...get the DVD to see it better.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 25

TV show you used to like that now you hate:

Desperate Housewives

The first couple seasons it felt new and inventive, now it seems old tired and soapy.

Video Warning adult content:

I'm just sayin' (part 1)

I am not normally one to use my blog as a place to whine and moan. I am not usually over critical of books, movies, TV shows, etc. that I don't like. I usually just say it wasn't my thing and move on. Occasionally a film is bad enough to get my ire up, and I'll blast away. You know to avoid those. Usually my reviews are positive, or I say nothing at all. Today I'm going to attempt a couple reviews that are just average. Not raves, but not a total panning.

Let me start with Lacey Schwimmer's new single, Love Soundz. I want to start by saying I have been a huge fan and supporter of Lacey since she was competing on SYTYCD. I followed her because she was from Redlands, and that was my home from 1989-2001. I am also a fan of Lacey's brother Benji (that's him with me in my facebook profile pic). Both these talented dancers are now making their way into music. Lacey appeared late last year in the song Red Cup by CashCash. I really enjoyed the upbeat party dance number, even though it was hiphopish, and I am no hip hop fan. Now Lacey's first solo single is out. It is called Love Soundz, and yes, it is as steamy as you might think with that name. Lacey has had a bit of a reputation as a rebel on DWTS, and that naughty side is definitely at the core of this song. It isn't a bad song, but I'm not sure she needed to go this raunchy. The other drawback on the song is am extensive use of electronic voice modulation. This is a very popular tool of record producers to give an interesting sound to a voice, but can also hide vocal weakness. I really thought Lacey's voice was pretty nice on Red Cup, but there is so much modulation on Love Soundz, I can't be sure. So as far as this song goes, I can't say it is great, but I don't hate it. I will wait for the whole CD to come out. Still love Lacey though.
Moving on to a completely different review. Over the past year I have taken to listening to Audiobooks on my way to work. I am currently listening to INKSPELL, the second book in the INKHEART series. The first book, INKHEART was read by Lynne Redgraves, and she was marvelous. INKSPELL is read by Brendan Fraiser, who is a very enjoyable actor, and he played Mo in the INKHEART movie, so he was a logical choice. And I must say, his storytelling voice as he narrates is wonderful. He reads with appropriate speed if there is some action in the sequence, and very slowly in quieter a more thoughtful passages. My problem comes when he is doing character voices. For most of the characters he has a consistent voice, but for a few he fades in and out of accents and tones. Also in scenes with several characters he sometimes seems to lose which character is talking, and Fire-eater will suddenly be talking in Fahr-heed's (sp) voice. And there are a few voices I feel he totally misses the mark on. The big example...the one driving me nuts as I listen... is the voice of the author/story-teller Finolia. The INKHEART books are particularly European in flavor. The scenes and characters in our world are decidedly European. Finolio is an older Italian gentleman (he is a grandfather) but instead of voicing him as an elder man from Italy, Fraiser gives him the accent of a 20-something Italian street thug from New York. I keep waiting for Al Pacino to come out at slap Finolio around. I am enjoying the story, but wish they had stuck with Lynne Redgraves.

Okay, hope I wasn't too negative...I'm just sayin'...

30 Day TV Challenge Day 24

A film you think deserves its own series:

500 Days of Summer

I loved this movie, because I love Zooey Deschanel. And hey, she has a new series this fall, so I'm happy. Now, here's the irony, she isn't even in the scene I love best in the movie:

30 Day TV Challenge Day 23

A TV show you would make into a movie:

CSI Miami

Everyone has one CSI that is there favorite, our family love CSI Miami. I think Caruso is great. Here's a fun clip of some of his great lines:

30 Day TV Challenge Day 22

A current show you would cancel:

The Apprentice in any form celebrity or otherwise. Two words: YOU'RE FIRED!

30 Day TV Challenge Day 21

A cancelled show you would bring back:

HEROES

I loved the first season, and where season two would have headed if not for the writers strike. I would bring it beak mid-season 2 let them finish their plans for season 2 and then see if there would have been a better seasons 3 and 4. All the youtube videos I could fine were music mashes of scenes, not any plain clips of the show with out music, so here are two of my favorte characters fighting it out.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 20

A Show you consider overrated:

The Office

I have never watched a full episode, but I just can't imagine, it's as great as all that. And my word bringing back "That's what she said" a catch phrase from the immaturity of the 80's, who needed that.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 19

A Show You Consider Underrated:

Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip

Brought to you by NBC in the season doomed by the writers strike. This brilliant show created by Aaron Sorkin (West Wing, The Social Network) starring, among others Matthew Perry and Bradley Whitford, was doomed from the start. A drama about the backstage workings of a late night comedy show, it debuted the same season as 30 Rock, a comedy about the backstage workings of a late night comedy show. 30 Rock obviously was the networks favorite, getting the good time slots, and all the promotion. But Studio 60 is a gem of excellent writtingand great acting. find the DVD set and watch it, you will like it, I'm sure.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 18

Favorite Animated TV Show:
The Flintstones

I know Family Guy or The Simpsons probably top most peoples lists, but you can't beat Fred and Wilma and Betty and Barney.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 17

Favorite TV Documentary:

The Dog Whisperer

Ok, this is not really a documentary, but I don't really watch documentaries, but occasionally I watch this show with my oldest daughter.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 16

Favorite Reality Show:

So You Think You Can Dance

While I love Dancing with the Stars, SYTYCD gives a wider spectrum of dance styles, and a higher talent level. Check out season 5 winner Jeanine Mason in this clip.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 15

Favorite (current) TV Comedy show:

Modern Family.

A fun quirky look at an unconventional, modern day family. I love the cut aways as the different characters explain what has happened or what's about to, from their point of view.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 14

Favorite (current) TV Drama

BLUE BLOODS

I already talked about Tom Selleck in this show, but I really love the whole cast. Here's Donnie Wahlberg (sp?) in a softer scene. It's the balance of tough cop action, and tender family moments that make this show special.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 13

My Favorite Childhood TV Show

The Six Million Dollar Man

Sunday night's after church it was all about Steve Austin.

Sorry 'bout low sound levels on this video

30 Day TV Challenge Day 12

A TV show that resembles my life:

King of Queens. Don't ask me why I chose this show, I don't even like it much..but if you know me, you know it kinda fits.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 11

A TV show No One thinks you'd like:

Veronica Mars

Surprisingly smart and well written story of a young girl detective. Each episode had it's own small mystery to solve, plus building blocks for each seasons major story arc. This video is a preview for season 4, which never ended up happening. Check out the DVDs if you never saw the show.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 10

Guilty Pleasure TV Show

GLEE

I can't help it, the energy fun and music of the show is so infectious:

here is one of the original songs from this past season listen and don't like it, I DARE YOU!!

30 Day TV Challenge Day 9

TV show with your favorite Actor (female) {isn't that actress?}

Criminal Minds

I was sad recently to learn Rachel Nichols won't be back next season. She got me watching this show. I loved her in Alias, and in the GI Joe movie. I'm including two clips, one just because it mentions Doctor Who.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 8

TV Show with your Favorite Actor:

Blue Bloods

I wouldn't say Tom Selleck is really my favorite actor, but he is a consistently good TV actor, and I love this show, he is amazing in it.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 7

TV Show I can Best Quote:

FRIENDS

Yes I know this show was covered on day one, so it really makes sense, since I love the show, that it is also my most quotable. Here is one of the MANY scenes I know by heart:

30 Day TV Challenge Day 6

Least favorite TV character:

Steve Urkel

The first season of Family Matters it was just a nice sitcom about a cop and his family. Then an obnoxious neighbor drop in, and the show was, as far as I'm concerned, ruined. as Urkel became the focus of the show, I stopped watching. Watch the video for a few seconds and you will see his obnoxiousness....or you'll love him, like many apparently did. oh no...this video has been deleted...too bad, so sorry.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 5

Favorite TV character

The Doctor

debutting in 1963 and running thru the mid 80's, then returning in 2005, this BBC science fiction icon is an amazing blend of the 11 actors who have played him through the years, each making the character his own. This video shows the transformations from actor to actor...there is a 10 minute video from the same youtube poster that is even better, but I used the short one for the blog.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 4

Worst Theme Song

Two and a Half Men

This opening sequence (notice how much shorter they are these days) like the show itself becomes more annoying each year.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 3

Best Theme Song:

My Life from Bosom Buddies

Most people would hav suspected I would pick the FRIENDS theme, and I love that song, but Bosom Buddies theme, Billy Joel's My Life introduced me to the music of Billy Joel, and his genius. Amazing song! And brings us back to a time when TV shows had intros (time now sucked up by ads)

30 Day TV Challenge Day 2

Least Favorite TV show of all time:

The Bachelor

Studly rich guys dating groups of women, whittling it down to two, then breaking one girls heart choosing another, just to break up with her before the wedding can happen..so lame!! and Bachelorette is just as bad.

30 Day TV Challenge Day 1

Good day, and welcome to June and the 30 day TV challenge (as laid out in a previous blog) This will be my first attempt to include videos in my blog, so be patient if it doesn't work. For this 30 day challenge in most categories I will be considering current or recent shows, unless they are for "all time favorite" or things like that. anyway, hope you enjoy.

DAY 1:
Favourite TV Show of all Time:

FRIENDS

It's the show we watch over and over, because for most of the run anyway the writing is just so good that it is still funny even when you've seen it a dozen times. I know alot of people would have expected me to pick Doctor Who, which I also love, but FRIENDS is such a part of the life of my family, something my wife and I do together. Doctor Who is just a thing I watch for ME, (it is of course favourite show #2)

Here is a clip from first episode, where the FRIENDS obsesion began for most of us:

3 30 Day Challenges

There have been several "30 Day Challemges" popping up on facebook lately. I have decided to move 3 of these here to my blog over the next 3 months in order to force myself the blog moreoften...plus it will be fun. So here's the 3 chaleeges.. I will start the first one on June 1, so keep your eyes here (I may not do them in the order shown here...ie movies may be first, who knows):



30 day TV Challenge:
Day 1 - Favourite Show Of All Time
Day 2 - Least Favourite Show Of All Time
Day 3 - Best Theme Song
Day 4 - Worst Theme Song
Day 5 - Favourite TV Character
Day 6 - Least Favourite TV Character
Day 7 - TV Show You Can Quote Best
Day 8 - TV Show With Your Favourite Actor
Day 9 - TV Show With Your Favourite Actor (Female)
Day 10 - A Guilty Pleasure TV Show
Day 11 - A TV Show No One Thinks You'd Like
Day 12 - A TV Show That Resembles Your Life
Day 13 - Your Favourite Childhood TV Show
Day 14 - Favourite TV Drama
Day 15 - Favourite TV Comedy
Day 16 - Favourite Reality Show
Day 17 - Favourite TV Documentary
Day 18 - Favourite Animated TV Show
Day 19 - A Show you consider Underrated
Day 20 - A Show you Consider Overrated
Day 21 - A Cancelled Show You Would Bring Back
Day 22 - A Current Show You Would Cancel
Day 23 - A TV Series You Would Make Into a Film
Day 24 - A Film You Think Deserves Its Own Series
Day 25 - TV Show You Used to Like, Now Hate
Day 26 - Your Favourite Scene From a TV Show
Day 27 - Favourite TV Channel
Day 28 - Least Favourite TV Channel
Day 29 - A Show You Never Miss
Day 30 - Favourite Episode of Any TV Show Ever

30 Day Song Challenge:
Day 1: Your favourite song
Day 2: The first song you heard by your favourite artist
Day 3: The first song you ever heard
Day 4: a song that makes you smile
Day 5: a song that makes you cry
Day 6: a song that makes you laugh
Day 7: a song that you hate
Day 8: a song that gets stuck in your head all the time
Day 9: a song by someone that inspires you
Day 10: a song that reminds you of a family member
Day 11: a song that reminds you of a friend
Day 12: a song that reminds you of someone you hate
Day 13: a song you can't help but like
Day 14: a strange song
Day 15: a song by the performer at the last concert you went to
Day 16: the last song you heard
Day 17: The song you want to/ had your first dance to at your wedding
Day 18: a song you want played at your funeral
Day 19: your BFF's favourite song
Day 20: a song from your favourite film
Day 21: the first song on your favourite album
Day 22: the last song on your favourite album
Day 23: a song by someone you hate
Day 24: a song beginning with the same letter as your first name
Day 25: a song beginning with the same letter as your last name
Day 26: a song beginning with the word 'you'
Day 27: a song that makes you happy
Day 28: a song that really annoys you
Day 29: a random song (just choose one!!)
Day 30: Your favourite song (it's probably changes since day 1)

30 day Movie challenge:
day 01 - The last movie you watched
day 02 - your least favorite movie
day 03 - a movie that makes you happy
day 04 - a movie that makes you sad
day 05 - a movie that reminds you of someone
day 06 - a movie that reminds you of somewhere/time
day 07 - a movie that you love to quote
day 08 - a movie from you favorite genre
day 09 - a movie that makes you laugh
day 10 - a movie you like to fall asleep to
day 11 - a movie from your favorite director
day 12 - a movie with you favorite actor
day 13 - a movie from your least favorite actor
day 14 - a movie that no one would expect you to love
day 15 - the first movie you remember watching
day 16 - the first movie you saw at the cinema
day 17 - the last movie you bought on dvd/blu ray
day 18 - the last movie you downloaded
day 19 - your favourite remake movie
day 20 - least favourite remake movie
day 21 - your favorite sequel
day 22 - least favourite sequel
day 23 - your fav movie based on a cartoon (cartoon or live action)
day 24 - least fav movie based on a cartoon (cartoon or live action)
day 25 - your favourite movie based on a book
day 26 - your favorite movie based on a comic
day 27 - Least favourite movie based on a comic
day 28 - Movie coming soon your excited about
day 29 - Movie coming soon you are dreading
day 30 - Your Favourite Movie

I miss Douglas Adams

My mother was in the hospital a great deal of the time from the spring of my 2nd grade year through most of the grade school period with a variety of broken bones, and the problems that arrived from these breaks. Sometimes the hospital was nearby, sometimes in downtown Chicago, and for a period, in Minnesota. My father, between his two jobs, spent what spare time he had visiting mom. This left me under the supervision of my siblings, who were from 8 to 15 years older than me. So I have to say I got away with a lot of things that most grade schoolers might not.

Sometime while I was in junior high I managed to convince someone it was ok for me to have a subscription to Rolling Stone. I mostly read the record reviews, and occasionally an interview, if it was Linda Ronstadt or Pat Benatar or some other rock goddess. I usually ignored the ads in the magazine, selling weird things like tie-dyed t-shirts with pot leaves on them. But one day I saw an ad that had a word that caught my eye: FREE. This a word that meant I could get something with out paying for it...still a concept I love. It was for a free BOOK, which made it even better, since I loved to read, and still had time to back then. It was for a free copy of a book called "The Hitch Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy". This name sounded so intriguing I had to have it. I sent away for it, and waited for its arrival.

Once the book showed up I devoured it. It was truly amazing. I had developed a taste for Science Fiction, largely due to a little film called Star Wars, and a library book by Ben Bova Exiled From Earth. I can tell you nothing about the book, I just remember the author. I had also developed a taste for British comedy thanks to my brother Dave allowing me to stay up past my bedtime on Sunday nights to watch Monty Python's Flying Circus. In Hitch Hiker's Guide these two passions merged under the skillful hand of Douglass Adams. His writing was funny, yet smart. His science was spot on, and his fiction hilarious. Two of my favorite quotes, that I use till this day come from this book. "It must be Thursday. I've never quite gotten thehang of Thursdays" which Arthur Dent says after finding out the earth was about to be destroyed. The other quote is from Marvin, the robot with the "genuine person personality" who moans, "Life--Loathe it or ignore it-- you can't possibly like it" These I have kept with me from the book, along with my lifelong obsession with the number 42.

I of course collected the entire series of books, along with Adams' Dirk gently book, and anything else Adams I could get my hands on. No one could put the comic spin on anything quite like Adams. His mind was brilliant, and just warped enough to question, and poke fun at nearly everything. In 2001 the world lost this genius to a heart attack at 49. I was saddened, as were scores of fans around the world. Never again would we read new adventurs of Arthur, Zaphod and the whole gang.

A couple years ago a new Hitch Hiker book, "...and another thing", showed up in the stores, written by Eoin Colfer. I am reading this book right now. It is good to spend time with these characters, but Mr Colfer is no Douglas Adams. Please don't get me wrong. I am sure he is a fine author, my daughter loves his Artemis Fowl series. But, he can not fill Adams' shoes. I don't think anyone can. I am currently listening to "Salmon of Doubt" on audio book. This is a collection of works gleaned from Adams' computer. This is bringing my back to my joy of reading Adams' books. And I realise how much I have missed Adams. I hope that they don't make any more books by Colfer in the series... again, nothing against Colfer, but you can't replace Adams in the same way Paul Rogers just can not replace Freddie Mercury.

Well, I find myself rambling, so I'll let you go...but I recommend that you find your copy of Hitch Hiker's Guide to the Galaxy, and blast off with Mr Adams again. 42

Kickstarter, how it works, and why mine doesn't seem to be working.

A few weeks ago I launched my kickstarter project with the hopes of raising funding so I could finish writing my novel and get it self published through exLibris. I had grand dreams of raising the $8,000 I feel this project will take rather quickly. Now looking at my project page I realize this is not happening quickly, and I must ask why.

First let me begin by explaining kickstarter.com for those who may not be familiar. Kickstarter.com is a website designed to raise funding for creative projects. I have watched it work successfully for "Blue Like Jazz The Movie" and for Debra Romer's EP. Basically you have a creative project, you set a funding goal and a time deadline, and ask people to contribute. If enough people agree to contribute, and you hit your goal, you get your money. If you don't hit the goal, no money is collected from any of the contributors.

I think one reason I have not had the success that the projects I mentioned saw, is mostly because I am not a known quantity. "Blue Like Jazz" is a movie based on a New York Times best seller, and directed by Christian music legend Steve Taylor, and Debra Romer was an America's Got Talent contestant. They both had recognition going into it. I am not so well known.

Still, I went in hoping at least a few friends would pledge a buck or two, and send the link along. So far, I have had only one pledge. I know financial times are hard, but I was really hoping for at least a token response. I am trying hard not to be discouraged. Please take a moment to check out my project by clicking here and pledging any amount, even $1. And please share this link with your friends. http://kck.st/h7X2pl

Academy Award Results

Okay, sorry our winter mountain weather has delayed this report. We will now review my academy picks. The Winner will be in Blue, my choice, if it was NOT the right choice, will be in RED. Enjoy

Actor in a Leading Role -- Got this one right, Congrats to Colin Firth.

• Javier Bardem in “Biutiful”
• Jeff Bridges in “True Grit”
• Jesse Eisenberg in “The Social Network”
• Colin Firth in “The King's Speech”
• James Franco in “127 Hours”

Actor in a Supporting Role --Having seen none of these, I missed this one, Sorry Christian.

• Christian Bale in “The Fighter”
• John Hawkes in “Winter's Bone”
• Jeremy Renner in “The Town”
• Mark Ruffalo in “The Kids Are All Right”
• Geoffrey Rush in “The King's Speech”

Actress in a Leading Role --Okay, Natalie is the only performance I've seen here, and she was so amazing, I gotta give it to her. Another one right for me!

• Annette Bening in “The Kids Are All Right”
• Nicole Kidman in “Rabbit Hole”
• Jennifer Lawrence in “Winter's Bone”
• Natalie Portman in “Black Swan”
• Michelle Williams in “Blue Valentine”

Actress in a Supporting Role -- Again, haven't seen anything but the previews,I still think Hailee should have got this, pretty sure she wouldn't have dropped the "f" bomb.

• Amy Adams in “The Fighter”
• Helena Bonham Carter in “The King's Speech”
• Melissa Leo in “The Fighter”
• Hailee Steinfeld in “True Grit”
• Jacki Weaver in “Animal Kingdom”

Animated Feature Film --No Contest here, come on! Another one right for me!

• “How to Train Your Dragon” Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois
• “The Illusionist” Sylvain Chomet
• “Toy Story 3” Lee Unkrich

Directing --oops, totally missed this one.

• “Black Swan” Darren Aronofsky
• “The Fighter” David O. Russell
• “The King's Speech” Tom Hooper
• “The Social Network” David Fincher
• “True Grit” Joel Coen and Ethan Coen

Music (Original Score) --I saw Social Network, and remember the music in no way, but Zimmer's score drove the action along so amazingly in INCEPTION, he has to win this...So much for MY movie ears!.

• “How to Train Your Dragon” John Powell
• “Inception” Hans Zimmer
• “The King's Speech” Alexandre Desplat
• “127 Hours” A.R. Rahman
• “The Social Network” Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross

Music (Original Song) --I am protesting this category and not making a pick because Carrie Underwood's A Place For Us from Voyage of the Dawn Treader is way better than any of these. And I STILL stand by my choice here.

• “Coming Home” from “Country Strong” Music and Lyric by Tom Douglas, Troy Verges and Hillary Lindsey
• “I See the Light” from “Tangled” Music by Alan Menken Lyric by Glenn Slater
• “If I Rise” from “127 Hours” Music by A.R. Rahman Lyric by Dido and Rollo Armstrong
• “We Belong Together” from “Toy Story 3" Music and Lyric by Randy Newman

Best Picture --Tough category since they made it 10 nominees, if I had my way it would be Inception, but I'm thinking the academy will pick King's Speech.

• “Black Swan” Mike Medavoy, Brian Oliver and Scott Franklin, Producers
• “The Fighter” David Hoberman, Todd Lieberman and Mark Wahlberg, Producers
• “Inception” Emma Thomas and Christopher Nolan, Producers
• “The Kids Are All Right” Gary Gilbert, Jeffrey Levy-Hinte and Celine Rattray, Producers
• “The King's Speech” Iain Canning, Emile Sherman and Gareth Unwin, Producers
• “127 Hours” Christian Colson, Danny Boyle and John Smithson, Producers
• “The Social Network” Scott Rudin, Dana Brunetti, Michael De Luca and Ceán Chaffin, Producers
• “Toy Story 3” Darla K. Anderson, Producer
• “True Grit” Scott Rudin, Ethan Coen and Joel Coen, Producers
• “Winter's Bone" Anne Rosellini and Alix Madigan-Yorkin, Producers

Okay, so I was 4 for nine in the categories I chose...not Too bad, not great.

Academy Award predictions

Academy Award Nominations came out today. This year I am resuming an old tradition of making Oscar picks. my choices are highlighted in blue.

Actor in a Leading Role -- This is a hard choice, I'm torn between Colin FIrth or a repeat by Jeff Bridges, but I'm gonna call it for Colin

• Javier Bardem in “Biutiful”
• Jeff Bridges in “True Grit”
• Jesse Eisenberg in “The Social Network”
• Colin Firth in “The King's Speech”
• James Franco in “127 Hours”

Actor in a Supporting Role --I have seen none of these performances, I'm picking Geoffrey, because this film looks amazing to me.

• Christian Bale in “The Fighter”
• John Hawkes in “Winter's Bone”
• Jeremy Renner in “The Town”
• Mark Ruffalo in “The Kids Are All Right”
• Geoffrey Rush in “The King's Speech”

Actress in a Leading Role --Okay, Natalie is the only performance I've seen here, and she was so amazing, I gotta give it to her.

• Annette Bening in “The Kids Are All Right”
• Nicole Kidman in “Rabbit Hole”
• Jennifer Lawrence in “Winter's Bone”
• Natalie Portman in “Black Swan”
• Michelle Williams in “Blue Valentine”

Actress in a Supporting Role -- Again, haven't seen anything but the previews, but I'm giving it to the kid.

• Amy Adams in “The Fighter”
• Helena Bonham Carter in “The King's Speech”
• Melissa Leo in “The Fighter”
• Hailee Steinfeld in “True Grit”
• Jacki Weaver in “Animal Kingdom”

Animated Feature Film --No Contest here, come on!

• “How to Train Your Dragon” Chris Sanders and Dean DeBlois
• “The Illusionist” Sylvain Chomet
• “Toy Story 3” Lee Unkrich

Directing --Tough call, I would have liked to Chris Nolan for INCEPTION, and BlackSwan and Social Network were great, but the Oscars love the Coen brothers.

• “Black Swan” Darren Aronofsky
• “The Fighter” David O. Russell
• “The King's Speech” Tom Hooper
• “The Social Network” David Fincher
• “True Grit” Joel Coen and Ethan Coen

Music (Original Score) --I saw Social Network, and remember the music in no way, but Zimmer's score drove the action along so amazingly in INCEPTION, he has to win this.

• “How to Train Your Dragon” John Powell
• “Inception” Hans Zimmer
• “The King's Speech” Alexandre Desplat
• “127 Hours” A.R. Rahman
• “The Social Network” Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross

Music (Original Song) --I am protesting this category and not making a pick because Carrie Underwood's A Place For Us from Voyage of the Dawn Treader is way better tan any of these.

• “Coming Home” from “Country Strong” Music and Lyric by Tom Douglas, Troy Verges and Hillary Lindsey
• “I See the Light” from “Tangled” Music by Alan Menken Lyric by Glenn Slater
• “If I Rise” from “127 Hours” Music by A.R. Rahman Lyric by Dido and Rollo Armstrong
• “We Belong Together” from “Toy Story 3" Music and Lyric by Randy Newman

Best Picture --Tough category since they made it 10 nominees, if I had my way it would be Inception, but I'm thinking the academy will pick King's Speech.

• “Black Swan” Mike Medavoy, Brian Oliver and Scott Franklin, Producers
• “The Fighter” David Hoberman, Todd Lieberman and Mark Wahlberg, Producers
• “Inception” Emma Thomas and Christopher Nolan, Producers
• “The Kids Are All Right” Gary Gilbert, Jeffrey Levy-Hinte and Celine Rattray, Producers
• “The King's Speech” Iain Canning, Emile Sherman and Gareth Unwin, Producers
• “127 Hours” Christian Colson, Danny Boyle and John Smithson, Producers
• “The Social Network” Scott Rudin, Dana Brunetti, Michael De Luca and Ceán Chaffin, Producers
• “Toy Story 3” Darla K. Anderson, Producer
• “True Grit” Scott Rudin, Ethan Coen and Joel Coen, Producers
• “Winter's Bone" Anne Rosellini and Alix Madigan-Yorkin, Producers

Check back after the awards, and we'll see how I did.

Black Swan, Little Fockers, The Dilemma, Country Strong 4 Mini-reviews

Okay, welcome to 2011, and seeing we are in the middle of January already, I am hear by foregoing my New Years Resolutions. I'm going to be my same old rotten nasty self all year.

Moving on, I'm now going to give you my review of the 4 movies I've seen so far this year. SPOILER ALERT: If you are planning to see any of the four movies named in the title, you may want to stop now, I might give away plot elements you don't want to know. In particular, Black Swan and Country Strong. If you continue now, don't be mad at me for giving things away.

I'll start with LITTLE FOCKERS-- For the third installment in this series Ben Stiller sticks with the familiar. There is really nothing new or surprising here. If Stiller's comedy is something you enjoy, you won't be disappointed. If your tastes run in different circles, stay away. The addition of Jessica Alba is nice for the men, sorry girls, no real eye candy for you, unless you're into Owen Wilson. 2 1/2 stars on a 4 star scale

BLACK SWAN-- Natalie Portman is amazing in this film, as is Mila Kunis. All the praise for the acting is well deserved. Given that, it is a very dark film, with a tragic ending. I think Portman's character could have been just as strong even if the film had had a happier ending. I was not disappointed with the film, until the ending. I was however a bit freaked out at parts of it. NOT a family film, and not for the fain of heart. 3 1/2 stars.

THE DILEMMA-- The movie, out of all 4, perhaps confused me the most. With a cast featuring Vince Vaughn, Kevin James and Queen Latifah you would expect a film full of laughs, and probably a lot of slapstick; a light fluffy film. This movie is surprisingly much heavier than that. There are funny moments, mostly when Latifah is on the screen. But for the most part it is a kind of serious film. And this is my problem...I don't think Vaughn or James are good enough actors to pull off a heavy film. I know Steve Martin, and Robin Williams have been able to tackle more serious roles, but Vaughn and James just aren't ready for it. I would have enjoyed this more if they had stuck to their comedy guns, and just made this a funny film, forget the heavy message. Or conversely, if you want to handle the topics of this film seriously, get Tom Hanks and George Clooney, or even Matt and Ben, and make it a straight out serious film. Either way, it would have been a better film. 2 Stars.

COUNTRY STRONG-- A movie about an alcoholic country singer trying to make a comeback is bound to be a bit heavy, but the ads do not prepare you for the very unhappy ending. The ads show Gwyneth Paltrow giving a strong performance and strutting off stage...happy ending right?..No, she goes back stage and has a bad mix of drugs and alcohol...sad ending. Cheers to Paltrow for becoming a decent country singer. But overall, a very depressing movie. 2 1/2 stars.