Ah, December. The time of year when we in South Florida finally get two weeks of winter. Except this year, we've had fairly cool weather for about three or four weeks. It's finally warmed up today, but I can't remember the last time I needed to turn the air on in my car.
So, yes, I'm wearing short sleeves without a sweater for the first time in a while. And that's a good thing.
I went to see "Life as We Know It" with mom at the $3 movie. That's about how much this movie was worth. Of course, the theater smelled like old people and it wasn't stadium seating. Yeah, I guess you can say I'm spoiled when it comes to my movie-going experience.
Much better was "The King's Speech," this year's Christmas movie. It was the perfect prelude to Chinese food. And Colin Firth is yummy, as usual. (I actually felt a bit of pain every time I heard his speech impediment. I had to keep reminding myself that it was just acting.)
Also seen at the theater this month: "Love and Other Drugs" and "How Do You Know." The former was good, and the latter was OK. (I still want to know where the question mark went.)
And that's been my December, in a nutshell. I've been on a 10-day staycation this week, but have done nothing exciting, unless your idea of exciting is a biannual visit to the ophthalmologist, and a couple of rides in the dental chair. (No? Me, either.)
Happy new year! Here's to an exciting 2011!
December 30, 2010
November 30, 2010
In this and every November, I am most thankful that Thanksgiving means a four-day weekend. Sure, there's my family and the annual smorgasboard. But this year, it's all about the rest.
I've been working hard, and I'm not ashamed to admit it. I take these few days off when I can, and try to enjoy them. And boy, am I enjoying the heck out of them!
This month, I took my mom to a screening of "Morning Glory," a story about a young, career-driven woman whose so focused on her job that she can't get a date. Or something like that. All these rom-coms seem the same to me. Although Rachel McAdams and Patrick Wilson are the young couple at the center of the story, I really enjoyed seeing Diane Keaton and Harrison Ford on the big screen.
Actually, let me rephrase that: Keaton was a joy. She stole every scene she was in. Ford's Mike Pomeroy was a curmudgeonly man, and I hated his character so much that every time his face filled up the screen I was most drawn to the scar on his chin.
My favorite part of this movie was actually its setting. Every time I caught a glimpse of a New York City street, it only served as a reminder that I haven't been there in more than two years, and I really miss it. I must go back in 2011!
The biggest thrill this month was watching on the big screen the 25th anniversary concert of "Les Miserables," which took place at London's 02 Arena on Oct. 3. I did not go, so this was the next best thing. Alfie Boe and Norm Lewis were fantastic as Valjean and Javert. Lea Salonga, who played Eponine for the 10th anniversary concert, returned as Fantine, a role she played in the recent Broadway revival. Former Gavroche Nick Jonas was an interesting Marius, but I guess they had to throw one in for the teenyboppers. (It still boggles my mind that he was born three years after I first saw the show.)
The whole production was amazing. It was staged so beautifully that it made the 10th anniversary event (at London's Royal Albert Hall) look light a high school musical. For the encore, the London, touring and original 1985 casts were brought out. So much talent on one stage! Producer Cameron Mackintosh made a statement, as did the musical's writers, and then a parade of students who had performed the show streamed in. The finale's highlight was watching a quartet of Jean Valjeans, including the original, Colm Wilkinson, sing "Bring Him Home." I know I was in tears, and I wasn't the only one.
Also: As the credits rolled, there was a note that a movie musical is in the works! That was probably the best news yet. Apparently, Universal Pictures has the rights, and they are working on it. And that is what I am most thankful for this year.
I've been working hard, and I'm not ashamed to admit it. I take these few days off when I can, and try to enjoy them. And boy, am I enjoying the heck out of them!
This month, I took my mom to a screening of "Morning Glory," a story about a young, career-driven woman whose so focused on her job that she can't get a date. Or something like that. All these rom-coms seem the same to me. Although Rachel McAdams and Patrick Wilson are the young couple at the center of the story, I really enjoyed seeing Diane Keaton and Harrison Ford on the big screen.
Actually, let me rephrase that: Keaton was a joy. She stole every scene she was in. Ford's Mike Pomeroy was a curmudgeonly man, and I hated his character so much that every time his face filled up the screen I was most drawn to the scar on his chin.
My favorite part of this movie was actually its setting. Every time I caught a glimpse of a New York City street, it only served as a reminder that I haven't been there in more than two years, and I really miss it. I must go back in 2011!
The biggest thrill this month was watching on the big screen the 25th anniversary concert of "Les Miserables," which took place at London's 02 Arena on Oct. 3. I did not go, so this was the next best thing. Alfie Boe and Norm Lewis were fantastic as Valjean and Javert. Lea Salonga, who played Eponine for the 10th anniversary concert, returned as Fantine, a role she played in the recent Broadway revival. Former Gavroche Nick Jonas was an interesting Marius, but I guess they had to throw one in for the teenyboppers. (It still boggles my mind that he was born three years after I first saw the show.)
The whole production was amazing. It was staged so beautifully that it made the 10th anniversary event (at London's Royal Albert Hall) look light a high school musical. For the encore, the London, touring and original 1985 casts were brought out. So much talent on one stage! Producer Cameron Mackintosh made a statement, as did the musical's writers, and then a parade of students who had performed the show streamed in. The finale's highlight was watching a quartet of Jean Valjeans, including the original, Colm Wilkinson, sing "Bring Him Home." I know I was in tears, and I wasn't the only one.
Also: As the credits rolled, there was a note that a movie musical is in the works! That was probably the best news yet. Apparently, Universal Pictures has the rights, and they are working on it. And that is what I am most thankful for this year.
October 30, 2010
I am writing this post on the fourth day of a five-day staycation. I decided to take time off, but I didn't have plans to go anywhere. So, I've been reading and sleeping late.
I finally went to see "The Social Network." That's right: Instead of spending a couple of hours in front of my computer on Facebook, I spent a couple of hours at the movies, learning about the creation of Facebook. Actually, it's a fascinating story. Based on Ben Mezrich's 2009 book, "The Accidental Billionaires," the film was written by Aaron Sorkin, who created "Sports Night," "The West Wing" and "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip." (Sorkin also makes a cameo, which I loved.)
I thought Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield and Justin Timberlake were all fantastic. It will be interesting to see if any of these gentlemen will be honored during awards season. They are all deserving (along with Sorkin, naturally). Special mention also to Armie Hammer, who played the Winklevoss twins (although it was the back of another guy's head in some scenes).
Of course, the rest of the month wasn't too bad, either: It began with "Das Rhinegold," the first of the Metropolitan Opera's Live in HD transmissions this season. It's an all new production. Even though this was technically just the prologue, I was riveted.
I also went to see "Last Play at Shea" on the big screen. This documentary, about the former home of the New York Mets, was fantastic. Narrated by Alec Baldwin, it traces the stadium's entire history, from its creation to the Beatles to the World Series to Billy Joel. And, yes, the Piano Man was a big reason I wanted to see this. His two concerts were the last at the ballpark, and I can't wait until they are released on DVD early next year. But even though I went for that, it was an all-around fantastic show.
A few days later, my sister and I went to see the 25th anniversary screening of "Back to the Future." We saw it in 1985 during a summer trip to Detroit -- although she has no recollection. I have always considered this trilogy my "Star Wars," and even she had to admit that the original film has held up well. (And Marty McFly is still dreamy to me.)
No big plans for Halloween tomorrow. I didn't buy any candy, so I'm going to turn off all my lights but one and hope no trick-or-treaters ring my bell.
I finally went to see "The Social Network." That's right: Instead of spending a couple of hours in front of my computer on Facebook, I spent a couple of hours at the movies, learning about the creation of Facebook. Actually, it's a fascinating story. Based on Ben Mezrich's 2009 book, "The Accidental Billionaires," the film was written by Aaron Sorkin, who created "Sports Night," "The West Wing" and "Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip." (Sorkin also makes a cameo, which I loved.)
I thought Jesse Eisenberg, Andrew Garfield and Justin Timberlake were all fantastic. It will be interesting to see if any of these gentlemen will be honored during awards season. They are all deserving (along with Sorkin, naturally). Special mention also to Armie Hammer, who played the Winklevoss twins (although it was the back of another guy's head in some scenes).
Of course, the rest of the month wasn't too bad, either: It began with "Das Rhinegold," the first of the Metropolitan Opera's Live in HD transmissions this season. It's an all new production. Even though this was technically just the prologue, I was riveted.
I also went to see "Last Play at Shea" on the big screen. This documentary, about the former home of the New York Mets, was fantastic. Narrated by Alec Baldwin, it traces the stadium's entire history, from its creation to the Beatles to the World Series to Billy Joel. And, yes, the Piano Man was a big reason I wanted to see this. His two concerts were the last at the ballpark, and I can't wait until they are released on DVD early next year. But even though I went for that, it was an all-around fantastic show.
A few days later, my sister and I went to see the 25th anniversary screening of "Back to the Future." We saw it in 1985 during a summer trip to Detroit -- although she has no recollection. I have always considered this trilogy my "Star Wars," and even she had to admit that the original film has held up well. (And Marty McFly is still dreamy to me.)
No big plans for Halloween tomorrow. I didn't buy any candy, so I'm going to turn off all my lights but one and hope no trick-or-treaters ring my bell.
September 30, 2010
The thing about September is that it's all downhill from Labor Day.
Thankfully, the High Holidays positioned themselves in such a way that I was able to use personal days to the effect of a four-day weekend in honor of Rosh Hashanah. During that glorious time, I was able to spend a day with wonderful friends who were visiting from Michigan. The fact that we met on the ninth anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks was somewhat balanced by my friends' two bright, beautiful boys -- neither of whom were with us on that awful day.
The following weekend was Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. On this day, it is traditional to fast. In order to make the fast go a little faster, my sister and I went to see "Easy A," a modern take on "The Scarlet Letter." It was a smart little teen comedy, with more than a couple nods to the John Hughes films of my youth.
My mother, however, still has not forgiven us for spending a couple of hours of the holiest day on the Jewish calendar in a movie theater -- probably because it wasn't cheap.
Thankfully, the High Holidays positioned themselves in such a way that I was able to use personal days to the effect of a four-day weekend in honor of Rosh Hashanah. During that glorious time, I was able to spend a day with wonderful friends who were visiting from Michigan. The fact that we met on the ninth anniversary of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks was somewhat balanced by my friends' two bright, beautiful boys -- neither of whom were with us on that awful day.
The following weekend was Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. On this day, it is traditional to fast. In order to make the fast go a little faster, my sister and I went to see "Easy A," a modern take on "The Scarlet Letter." It was a smart little teen comedy, with more than a couple nods to the John Hughes films of my youth.
My mother, however, still has not forgiven us for spending a couple of hours of the holiest day on the Jewish calendar in a movie theater -- probably because it wasn't cheap.
August 30, 2010
The worst thing about coming back from a really great vacation is that you're no longer on vacation.
The best thing about it is you get to go on and on about how fabulous it was, and make people jealous when they ask to see your pictures. Now, I know you didn't ask, but just for the record, my pictures are here. Don't be jealous. They're not that good. But, they do represent almost a week's worth of wonderful memories that, had you asked two months ago, I would not have expected I would have at this point. I've spent the last 30 days gushing about my five days in London to anyone who will listen. Frankly, it feels like it was a dream, and I need to keep looking at the pictures to remind myself I was actually there.
And, even though I've been back to the daily grind for a month, August has gone shockingly quickly. Sure, part of that was because we had a couple of really hectic weeks at work. But the rest was just the fact that it took me much too long to recover from an unknown illness and I just don't remember what happened in the first half of the month.
Of course, the month wound down with a bang. Last night's Emmy Awards was a great showcase for new talent. First-time host Jimmy Fallon got things off to a rousing start with the kids from Glee, plus Nina Dobrev, Tina Fey, Jorge Garcia, Jon Hamm, Randy Jackson, Jane Lynch, Joel McHale and everyone's go-to gal these days, Betty White. Watch the opening here. The rest of the ceremony went quickly, but there wasn't anything to match the magic of the starter.
And so, I leave you to head off into September. Make it a great one!
The best thing about it is you get to go on and on about how fabulous it was, and make people jealous when they ask to see your pictures. Now, I know you didn't ask, but just for the record, my pictures are here. Don't be jealous. They're not that good. But, they do represent almost a week's worth of wonderful memories that, had you asked two months ago, I would not have expected I would have at this point. I've spent the last 30 days gushing about my five days in London to anyone who will listen. Frankly, it feels like it was a dream, and I need to keep looking at the pictures to remind myself I was actually there.
And, even though I've been back to the daily grind for a month, August has gone shockingly quickly. Sure, part of that was because we had a couple of really hectic weeks at work. But the rest was just the fact that it took me much too long to recover from an unknown illness and I just don't remember what happened in the first half of the month.
Of course, the month wound down with a bang. Last night's Emmy Awards was a great showcase for new talent. First-time host Jimmy Fallon got things off to a rousing start with the kids from Glee, plus Nina Dobrev, Tina Fey, Jorge Garcia, Jon Hamm, Randy Jackson, Jane Lynch, Joel McHale and everyone's go-to gal these days, Betty White. Watch the opening here. The rest of the ceremony went quickly, but there wasn't anything to match the magic of the starter.
And so, I leave you to head off into September. Make it a great one!
July 30, 2010
July turned out to be even better than June, and there wasn't even a birthday celebration (for me) involved.
I'll just say it: I went to London. It was absolutely fabulous. Sure, I came back today totally exhausted -- I've been up for 40 hours straight -- but it's totally worth it. I would not trade my experiences of the last five days for all the sleep in the world.
We stayed in the former County Hall, right on the Thames. We could see Parliament and Big Ben from our window.
As far as what we saw: Tate Modern, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Harrod's, Buckingham Palace, the original Hard Rock Cafe, Hyde Park, the National Gallery, a classical music concert in St. Martin in the Fields church and two West End shows.
I'm even more exhausted just thinking about it all. I promise to post pictures and put a link here.
I'll just say it: I went to London. It was absolutely fabulous. Sure, I came back today totally exhausted -- I've been up for 40 hours straight -- but it's totally worth it. I would not trade my experiences of the last five days for all the sleep in the world.
We stayed in the former County Hall, right on the Thames. We could see Parliament and Big Ben from our window.
As far as what we saw: Tate Modern, Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Harrod's, Buckingham Palace, the original Hard Rock Cafe, Hyde Park, the National Gallery, a classical music concert in St. Martin in the Fields church and two West End shows.
I'm even more exhausted just thinking about it all. I promise to post pictures and put a link here.
June 30, 2010
June has been a fantastic month! It began with a birthday celebration that lasted weeks, and ended with nothing in particular, but nothing particularly bad, either.
The best part of it, I would say, was an on-my-birthday concert by Carole King and James Taylor. I couldn't resist, and it was totally awesome
The best part of it, I would say, was an on-my-birthday concert by Carole King and James Taylor. I couldn't resist, and it was totally awesome
May 30, 2010
I fought the fondue ... and the fondue won. I am stuffed, stuffed, stuffed ... but it was oh-so-good.
And with that, my monthlong birthday celebration began.
What's that, you say? My birthday's not until next month? Technically true, but it's a holiday weekend and "Sex and the City 2" just came out. So, it was a perfect time for a girls' day out with my sister. (The movie wasn't as fabulous as the series, or even as good as the first foray onto the big screen. But, it was good to reconnect with some old friends nonetheless.) Then, it was off to The Melting Pot for the Big Night Out. (It was an early bird, but that's OK.)
I'm so full, I will probably not eat anything else until June. True, that's on Tuesday, but at this point, it could be weeks away and that would be OK by me. I am that stuffed.
Another highlight this month: "Spring Awakening" with my mother and sister. It was good, but, as we now say in our family, it wasn't "Wicked" good. (We've set the bar quite high.)
I don't know what next month with bring, but I'm sure it will be great!
And with that, my monthlong birthday celebration began.
What's that, you say? My birthday's not until next month? Technically true, but it's a holiday weekend and "Sex and the City 2" just came out. So, it was a perfect time for a girls' day out with my sister. (The movie wasn't as fabulous as the series, or even as good as the first foray onto the big screen. But, it was good to reconnect with some old friends nonetheless.) Then, it was off to The Melting Pot for the Big Night Out. (It was an early bird, but that's OK.)
I'm so full, I will probably not eat anything else until June. True, that's on Tuesday, but at this point, it could be weeks away and that would be OK by me. I am that stuffed.
Another highlight this month: "Spring Awakening" with my mother and sister. It was good, but, as we now say in our family, it wasn't "Wicked" good. (We've set the bar quite high.)
I don't know what next month with bring, but I'm sure it will be great!
April 30, 2010
April can be summed up in two words: Bon Jovi.
I'm sure there was more to the past 30 days, but nothing is coming to mind.
So I'll just say that I had a rockin' good time with these hard-working Jersey boys. They ripped through two-dozen songs, from their very first hit ("Runaway") to five tracks from their latest album ("The Circle.")
Actually, I did see "Smucker's Stars on Ice," starring Evan Lysacek and Sasha Cohen, among others. It seems so long ago, even though it's only been four weeks. I loved it! Sure, Evan only did one number ("Man in the Mirror," complete with a single silver glove) and came out for the finale. But, it was certainly worth it. The seats were great, and the price was right. (But the $20 parking was highway robbery!)
In May, I'm looking forward to the final live-in-HD performance of the Metropolitan Opera's 2009-2010 season. It's "Armida," starring soprano Renee Fleming. I'm excited! Also, my mom, sister and I are going to see "Spring Awakening." I always regretted missing the original Broadway cast, but I'm glad to be able to experience it before the tour ends.
I'm sure there was more to the past 30 days, but nothing is coming to mind.
So I'll just say that I had a rockin' good time with these hard-working Jersey boys. They ripped through two-dozen songs, from their very first hit ("Runaway") to five tracks from their latest album ("The Circle.")
Actually, I did see "Smucker's Stars on Ice," starring Evan Lysacek and Sasha Cohen, among others. It seems so long ago, even though it's only been four weeks. I loved it! Sure, Evan only did one number ("Man in the Mirror," complete with a single silver glove) and came out for the finale. But, it was certainly worth it. The seats were great, and the price was right. (But the $20 parking was highway robbery!)
In May, I'm looking forward to the final live-in-HD performance of the Metropolitan Opera's 2009-2010 season. It's "Armida," starring soprano Renee Fleming. I'm excited! Also, my mom, sister and I are going to see "Spring Awakening." I always regretted missing the original Broadway cast, but I'm glad to be able to experience it before the tour ends.
March 30, 2010
March has been the most spectacular month yet! I can't remember exactly how it began because it seems so long ago.
Ah, yes. The knee.
I began March with an ache in my knee.
Unfortunately, I am ending March with the ache still in my knee.
But, aside from that, it was an awesome month. The highlights:
Aside from cultural events I have never experienced before, next month, I hope to see some people I haven't had experiences with in many years. It's always good to catch up with old friends (as well as the kids from "Glee." April 13 can't come soon enough!)
Ah, yes. The knee.
I began March with an ache in my knee.
Unfortunately, I am ending March with the ache still in my knee.
But, aside from that, it was an awesome month. The highlights:
- I saw "Wicked," for the fourth time, with my mother and sister.
- I saw "In the Heights" with my parents and sister.
- I got tickets to see "Stars on Ice" in April.
- I got tickets to see "Spring Awakening" in May.
- I may get tickets to see The Blanks in April.
- I may get tickets to see Carole King and James Taylor in June.
Aside from cultural events I have never experienced before, next month, I hope to see some people I haven't had experiences with in many years. It's always good to catch up with old friends (as well as the kids from "Glee." April 13 can't come soon enough!)
February 28, 2010
Where has February gone? I know it's a short month, but here I am, ready to switch purses, break out my short-sleeved shirts and cruise on to spring.
No major happenings this month. I did just return from a family celebration for February birthdays and Purim, though. That's about as good as it got this month. That is, unless you count Valentine's Day brunch with the ladies, followed by a packed showing of "Valentine's Day." That was a nice afternoon. We'll definitely have to do it again soon.
In the meantime, March is looking busy already: "Wicked," kiddie birthday, the Metropolitan Opera's production of "Hamlet," "In the Heights" and Passover. Oy, that's a lot of stuff. And the first couple of weeks of April aren't too shabby, either. But, I'll wait until then to tell you all about it.
No major happenings this month. I did just return from a family celebration for February birthdays and Purim, though. That's about as good as it got this month. That is, unless you count Valentine's Day brunch with the ladies, followed by a packed showing of "Valentine's Day." That was a nice afternoon. We'll definitely have to do it again soon.
In the meantime, March is looking busy already: "Wicked," kiddie birthday, the Metropolitan Opera's production of "Hamlet," "In the Heights" and Passover. Oy, that's a lot of stuff. And the first couple of weeks of April aren't too shabby, either. But, I'll wait until then to tell you all about it.
January 30, 2010
So, here we are, 30 days into the new year, and I don't have much to show for it.
This year, I have resolved to read more and spend less. I would say that I am doing well on both counts, so that's something positive.
Of course, I always resolve to eat healthier and lose weight, and I'm about even with where I was 30 days ago. So, while it's not the outcome I'd hoped for, at least I'm not Violet Beauregarde before she meets her maker in "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory."
On the work front, I've just relocated to a new workspace that's two times the size of my previous one. It's a little more private, but I also houses the department's fax machine. So, basically, it's a wash. We'll see how it goes when Deadline Day arrives. That's the true test.
I'll be seeing "Wicked" for the fourth time when it returns to Miami in March. Now, one of my resolutions was not to pay to see things I'd already experienced before, so this would have been totally out of the question if my mom hadn't decided she wanted to see the show again. So, she is treating me and my sister to a Saturday matinee. Lucky us! I just hope mom doesn't learn the songs well enough to sing along during the performance.
Well, that's about all I have for now. Until next month, that is.
This year, I have resolved to read more and spend less. I would say that I am doing well on both counts, so that's something positive.
Of course, I always resolve to eat healthier and lose weight, and I'm about even with where I was 30 days ago. So, while it's not the outcome I'd hoped for, at least I'm not Violet Beauregarde before she meets her maker in "Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory."
On the work front, I've just relocated to a new workspace that's two times the size of my previous one. It's a little more private, but I also houses the department's fax machine. So, basically, it's a wash. We'll see how it goes when Deadline Day arrives. That's the true test.
I'll be seeing "Wicked" for the fourth time when it returns to Miami in March. Now, one of my resolutions was not to pay to see things I'd already experienced before, so this would have been totally out of the question if my mom hadn't decided she wanted to see the show again. So, she is treating me and my sister to a Saturday matinee. Lucky us! I just hope mom doesn't learn the songs well enough to sing along during the performance.
Well, that's about all I have for now. Until next month, that is.
December 30, 2009
As this year comes to a close, it is time to reflect on just how much things have changed in the last 12 months.
Or, not.
Because that would be really depressing.
Suffice it to say, this year had its ups and downs, but the overall trend was certainly down. Yes, I was able to go on a wonderful Baltic cruise with the family. But no, I was unable to pay for it myself because my company instituted a 5 percent across-the-board pay cut. (We were, however, given two additional days off to compensate, but I'd rather have had the money. Also, we're not getting the money this year, either. We're also not getting the extra days off.)
This year was one of some new beginnings, as we gained some new members of our family. Sadly, we also lost one. (It's a good thing this decade is over. I'm fresh out of grandparents, and I can't afford to lose anyone else close to me anytime soon.)
The good news is that, overall, my life hasn't changed all that much. The bad news is that, overall, my life hasn't changed all that much.
I have resolved that 2010 will truly be a fresh start. I want to clean out the clutter in my life, and meet some long-overdue goals. Hopefully, one year from now, I will have much to report.
Until then, hold tight, blogosphere. We're in for another wild ride.
Or, not.
Because that would be really depressing.
Suffice it to say, this year had its ups and downs, but the overall trend was certainly down. Yes, I was able to go on a wonderful Baltic cruise with the family. But no, I was unable to pay for it myself because my company instituted a 5 percent across-the-board pay cut. (We were, however, given two additional days off to compensate, but I'd rather have had the money. Also, we're not getting the money this year, either. We're also not getting the extra days off.)
This year was one of some new beginnings, as we gained some new members of our family. Sadly, we also lost one. (It's a good thing this decade is over. I'm fresh out of grandparents, and I can't afford to lose anyone else close to me anytime soon.)
The good news is that, overall, my life hasn't changed all that much. The bad news is that, overall, my life hasn't changed all that much.
I have resolved that 2010 will truly be a fresh start. I want to clean out the clutter in my life, and meet some long-overdue goals. Hopefully, one year from now, I will have much to report.
Until then, hold tight, blogosphere. We're in for another wild ride.
November 30, 2009
This month, like many that came before it, seemed to fly by. But, it sure ended on a high note.
In the last week, I've had more time off from work than time on, and I was able to get the majority of my holiday shopping squared away. Of course, the majority of my holiday shopping for others was squared away two weeks ago, and this week, it was my turn.
I made sure to stay out of the early-morning Black Friday fray, instead scoping out the stores on Wednesday, then returning on Saturday. (My theory: If I saw something I liked, I wouldn't buy it right away. If it was still there in three days, it was meant to be mine. I really cleaned up. And everything was 20 percent off!)
Of course, I also bought a few things online this year: used books and games, calendars and a special Chanukah snow globe designed by Christopher Radko. (Thanks, Rue La La!)
Tonight, I ended the month in grand style, with dinner with out-of-town friends at the Grand Lux Cafe. It's always great to see them, and watching their kids grow is always a treat. (Trust me: You never know for sure that anyone's listening to you until you've heard it come out of a 3-year-old's mouth.) It's definitely true: Kids do say the darnedest things!
In the last week, I've had more time off from work than time on, and I was able to get the majority of my holiday shopping squared away. Of course, the majority of my holiday shopping for others was squared away two weeks ago, and this week, it was my turn.
I made sure to stay out of the early-morning Black Friday fray, instead scoping out the stores on Wednesday, then returning on Saturday. (My theory: If I saw something I liked, I wouldn't buy it right away. If it was still there in three days, it was meant to be mine. I really cleaned up. And everything was 20 percent off!)
Of course, I also bought a few things online this year: used books and games, calendars and a special Chanukah snow globe designed by Christopher Radko. (Thanks, Rue La La!)
Tonight, I ended the month in grand style, with dinner with out-of-town friends at the Grand Lux Cafe. It's always great to see them, and watching their kids grow is always a treat. (Trust me: You never know for sure that anyone's listening to you until you've heard it come out of a 3-year-old's mouth.) It's definitely true: Kids do say the darnedest things!
October 30, 2009
Forgive me readers, for I have sinned. It's been 30 days since my last blog post and I haven't done anything worth repeating, much less committing to cyberspace for all eternity.
Yes, I welcomed a new cousin on Oct. 1, but the month went downhill from there. In fact, I've spent the last two weeks in various states of nasal congestion. It was tough at first, but once I found a daytime/nighttime medication that worked for me, all was well. Sadly, it took 10 days for that to occur, so I'm only on day four of breathing through both nostrils at the same time.
Lest you think I sat around, medicated, all month, I must tell you that I did watch two transmissions of the Metropolitan Opera's performances -- "Tosca" and "Aida" -- and I intend to continue on through the rest of the season. Next up: "Turandot." I don't know anything about that one, except it ends with the famous aria "Nessun Dorma," and stars Marcello Giordani, who I have seen in prior productions. He's good.
Tomorrow is Halloween. And, while it may have made sense to wait until I'd completed my holiday revelry to report on it, I'm just going to say it now: I don't like Halloween, and I won't be dressing up. Instead, I hope to watch the University of Miami Hurricanes and New York Yankees win their respective games. (If the Yankees don't win, I can at least be comforted by the pregame musical number by the cast of "Glee.")
And that's about it for me. Here's hoping next month beats the socks off this month.
Yes, I welcomed a new cousin on Oct. 1, but the month went downhill from there. In fact, I've spent the last two weeks in various states of nasal congestion. It was tough at first, but once I found a daytime/nighttime medication that worked for me, all was well. Sadly, it took 10 days for that to occur, so I'm only on day four of breathing through both nostrils at the same time.
Lest you think I sat around, medicated, all month, I must tell you that I did watch two transmissions of the Metropolitan Opera's performances -- "Tosca" and "Aida" -- and I intend to continue on through the rest of the season. Next up: "Turandot." I don't know anything about that one, except it ends with the famous aria "Nessun Dorma," and stars Marcello Giordani, who I have seen in prior productions. He's good.
Tomorrow is Halloween. And, while it may have made sense to wait until I'd completed my holiday revelry to report on it, I'm just going to say it now: I don't like Halloween, and I won't be dressing up. Instead, I hope to watch the University of Miami Hurricanes and New York Yankees win their respective games. (If the Yankees don't win, I can at least be comforted by the pregame musical number by the cast of "Glee.")
And that's about it for me. Here's hoping next month beats the socks off this month.
September 30, 2009
Where did September go?
I know it's been 30 days, but it seems to have passed by in 30 minutes.
Despite the fact that nothing of note happened this month, I would just like to know if my life is going to be passing me by just as quickly every month from here on out or if this was just a fluke.
It's got to mean something that the biggest event for me this month was the one-night-only showing of the remastered, high-definition version of "The Wizard of Oz" in theaters nationwide.
Now, I'll be the first to admit that this classic is not exactly at the top of my must-see movie list. In fact, it so frightened me as a child that I don't think I ever saw it all the way through. Sure, I watched bits of it when it used to be on TV once a year, but I never sought it out or bought the DVD so I could spend some time with it on a rainy weekend.
And that's why I completely surprised myself when I thoroughly enjoyed the movie. At 70, it looks better than ever. And the flying monkeys aren't even scary. I am so glad I decided to give this film a chance in the forum it deserves. (Although I was surprised at the aspect ratio, which was less widescreen and more old-fashioned TV screen.)
Speaking of the TV screen, this month also saw the official launch of "Glee," my favorite new show of the fall season. It's about the glee club at McKinley High School in Lima, Ohio, and I can't rave enough about it. Of course, there are plenty of musical numbers, so what's not to love! And, aside from having a fabulous regular cast, the guest stars are phenomenal. Tonight, it's Kristin Chenoweth's turn to shine as April Rhoades, a former classmate of glee club adviser Will Shuester, played by Matthew Morrison.
The show actually previewed in May, and I spent nearly four months obsessing over the show, eventually buying the director's cut of the pilot on DVD for $5 at Wal-Mart so I could get a free T-shirt (which arrived in less than four weeks in a size that actually fits me).
Other shows I've picked up this season are "Community," "Modern Family" and "Cougar Town." (Yes, I know the last one has an awful name, but I want to support the folks who gave me all those fabulous seasons of "Scrubs." Plus, it has a fantastic cast.)
So, that was basically my September. I can tell you right now that October is going to start of in a very exciting way, as my cousin will be headed to the hospital tomorrow morning to deliver her second child by planned C-section. I can't wait to meet the newest member of our family!
I know it's been 30 days, but it seems to have passed by in 30 minutes.
Despite the fact that nothing of note happened this month, I would just like to know if my life is going to be passing me by just as quickly every month from here on out or if this was just a fluke.
It's got to mean something that the biggest event for me this month was the one-night-only showing of the remastered, high-definition version of "The Wizard of Oz" in theaters nationwide.
Now, I'll be the first to admit that this classic is not exactly at the top of my must-see movie list. In fact, it so frightened me as a child that I don't think I ever saw it all the way through. Sure, I watched bits of it when it used to be on TV once a year, but I never sought it out or bought the DVD so I could spend some time with it on a rainy weekend.
And that's why I completely surprised myself when I thoroughly enjoyed the movie. At 70, it looks better than ever. And the flying monkeys aren't even scary. I am so glad I decided to give this film a chance in the forum it deserves. (Although I was surprised at the aspect ratio, which was less widescreen and more old-fashioned TV screen.)
Speaking of the TV screen, this month also saw the official launch of "Glee," my favorite new show of the fall season. It's about the glee club at McKinley High School in Lima, Ohio, and I can't rave enough about it. Of course, there are plenty of musical numbers, so what's not to love! And, aside from having a fabulous regular cast, the guest stars are phenomenal. Tonight, it's Kristin Chenoweth's turn to shine as April Rhoades, a former classmate of glee club adviser Will Shuester, played by Matthew Morrison.
The show actually previewed in May, and I spent nearly four months obsessing over the show, eventually buying the director's cut of the pilot on DVD for $5 at Wal-Mart so I could get a free T-shirt (which arrived in less than four weeks in a size that actually fits me).
Other shows I've picked up this season are "Community," "Modern Family" and "Cougar Town." (Yes, I know the last one has an awful name, but I want to support the folks who gave me all those fabulous seasons of "Scrubs." Plus, it has a fantastic cast.)
So, that was basically my September. I can tell you right now that October is going to start of in a very exciting way, as my cousin will be headed to the hospital tomorrow morning to deliver her second child by planned C-section. I can't wait to meet the newest member of our family!
August 30, 2009
It's the end of August, so that means just one thing: I'm seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.
Actually, I don't so much see the light as I do feel it. The light (and heat) coming from the sun, that is.
Yes, I know we in South Florida were lucky that we had a "long winter" -- with relatively cool weather into May this year. But once it got hot, it was very hot, and it's stayed that way ever since. Frankly, I'm a little tired of it. We're not even getting that much rain -- which cools the temperature at least a good 10 degrees. That's right: I'm complaining about the lack of rain. That's what it's come to here.
Hopefully, we'll be able to cool off a little in September.
Actually, I don't so much see the light as I do feel it. The light (and heat) coming from the sun, that is.
Yes, I know we in South Florida were lucky that we had a "long winter" -- with relatively cool weather into May this year. But once it got hot, it was very hot, and it's stayed that way ever since. Frankly, I'm a little tired of it. We're not even getting that much rain -- which cools the temperature at least a good 10 degrees. That's right: I'm complaining about the lack of rain. That's what it's come to here.
Hopefully, we'll be able to cool off a little in September.
July 30, 2009
If I had to sum up the month of July as succintly as possible, I'd have to say it sucked.
On the first day of the month, I arrived home from a two-week vacation. Unfortunately, all of the fabulousness of the trip was wiped away during the stressful 24 hours it took to get home after our initial flight was canceled.
The Fourth of July was great, as usual, as we gathered to celebrate the 22nd birthday of my cousin and the 233rd birthday of our nation.
And then, July 6 came, and it rocked my world.
My dear bubbe, 87 years old, lost her 10-year battle with Alzheimer's disease.
At first, I felt relief that she was no longer suffering, trapped inside a body that looked like the woman who loved us, but with a brain that no longer knew that.
Three days later, we had her funeral, and that's when I completely lost it. My cousins, uncle and mother read eulogies, and it dawned on me that I never got to say goodbye to this wonderful woman. It had been more than five years since I last saw her. I guess part of me was afraid to visit her once I knew that she would no longer know who I was. But there's another part of me regrets that now.
People grieve in different ways, and I decided to deal with my bubbe's death by shopping the pain away. I did this to honor the memory of the countless shopping excursions she took me on, and I was determined to buy nice things.
Well, I did not fail her.
I did not fail her to the tune of $400 in designer handbags.
While this may sound like a lot, the actual retail value of the items I purchased was $1,172. So basically, I saved 66 percent.
Bubbe would have been so proud.
After a couple of weeks of reckless spending (and a vow that I would get my usual $20-on-clearance bags the next time I needed a fix) I cut myself off, satisfied that my retail therapy was complete.
And yet, I still grieve.
But, I'm moving on. Sure, I haven't gotten back to going through all the pictures from my trip, but that's a goal for this weekend. It's good to have goals. Especially those that don't cost anything.
On the first day of the month, I arrived home from a two-week vacation. Unfortunately, all of the fabulousness of the trip was wiped away during the stressful 24 hours it took to get home after our initial flight was canceled.
The Fourth of July was great, as usual, as we gathered to celebrate the 22nd birthday of my cousin and the 233rd birthday of our nation.
And then, July 6 came, and it rocked my world.
My dear bubbe, 87 years old, lost her 10-year battle with Alzheimer's disease.
At first, I felt relief that she was no longer suffering, trapped inside a body that looked like the woman who loved us, but with a brain that no longer knew that.
Three days later, we had her funeral, and that's when I completely lost it. My cousins, uncle and mother read eulogies, and it dawned on me that I never got to say goodbye to this wonderful woman. It had been more than five years since I last saw her. I guess part of me was afraid to visit her once I knew that she would no longer know who I was. But there's another part of me regrets that now.
People grieve in different ways, and I decided to deal with my bubbe's death by shopping the pain away. I did this to honor the memory of the countless shopping excursions she took me on, and I was determined to buy nice things.
Well, I did not fail her.
I did not fail her to the tune of $400 in designer handbags.
While this may sound like a lot, the actual retail value of the items I purchased was $1,172. So basically, I saved 66 percent.
Bubbe would have been so proud.
After a couple of weeks of reckless spending (and a vow that I would get my usual $20-on-clearance bags the next time I needed a fix) I cut myself off, satisfied that my retail therapy was complete.
And yet, I still grieve.
But, I'm moving on. Sure, I haven't gotten back to going through all the pictures from my trip, but that's a goal for this weekend. It's good to have goals. Especially those that don't cost anything.
June 30, 2009
In a perfect world, I would be at home now, telling you what a wonderful vacation I'd taken for the last two weeks. Unfortunately, I'm at the Spring Hill Suites at Newark International Airport, after a tough 20 hours, eight of them on a plane from Copenhagen to New Jersey.
In short: Our flight back to Fort Lauderdale was canceled.
I am still too tired to adequately break down the last 14 days in all of its wondrousness. And, tomorrow, I'll be back at the airport, hoping to fly home earlier than late afternoon/early evening. (I can't believe I had the foresight to take tomorrow off, but still dread my one day of work, Thursday.)
Luckily, I've got a three-day weekend. Hopefully, I'll be able to find some time to write about my trip (and the rest of the month) before it's through.
In short: Our flight back to Fort Lauderdale was canceled.
I am still too tired to adequately break down the last 14 days in all of its wondrousness. And, tomorrow, I'll be back at the airport, hoping to fly home earlier than late afternoon/early evening. (I can't believe I had the foresight to take tomorrow off, but still dread my one day of work, Thursday.)
Luckily, I've got a three-day weekend. Hopefully, I'll be able to find some time to write about my trip (and the rest of the month) before it's through.
May 30, 2009
It seems that May has lasted at least three months, but it's only been 30 days since my last post.
The good news is that this month has brought incredible amounts of rain to South Florida. While I hate driving in downpours, I know it's what's best, as we've been in a drought condition for quite some time now. Of course, with all the rain comes the flurry of flowers from the tree under which I park my car at work. Because they fall on a wet car, they tend to dry up and stick to it. I'd take the car to the car wash, but I'm trying to save money for my upcoming trip while planning for my imminent pay cut. (We had six months' notice. It didn't make it better.)
This month, I was able to discover a couple of things for the first time. I started off with "Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog," a three-act online musical that, when watched all together, is wonderful. I had seen the first act one day late last year, but wasn't really into it. I guess I just had to be in the right frame of mind to appreciate it. (Plus, it has Neil Patrick Harris, who I loved as Doogie Howser, M.D., currently adore as Barney Stinson on "How I Met Your Mother," and am looking forward to seeing as the host of this year's Tony Awards. Is there anything he can't do? No? I didn't think so.
And last weekend, I plopped on the couch and zipped through the 20 episodes of "Lipstick Jungle," which I never watched when it was on TV, mainly because it was on at 10 p.m., which was past my bedtime at that point. Boy, was that series a treat! I was so much fun to watch, and had Andrew McCarthy, to boot! (I've loved him ever since "St. Elmo's Fire.")
Speaking of series that were canceled before their time should have been up, I was able to watch the final episodes of "Pushing Daisies" online before ABC decided to broadcast them on consecutive Saturday nights at 10 p.m. I'm so glad series creator Bryan Fuller was able to tack on a bit to the unintended final episode that gave viewers a sneak peek at how they all lived happily ever after. Poor guy can't seem to get a break: His first two shows, "Dead Like Me" and "Wonderfalls," didn't last long, either. I may have to check them out someday. He's also a producer on "Heroes," but that's not really my thing.
This month, I also bid adieu to "Scrubs," which finished its eighth season (and first on ABC) with an hour-long episode that surely felt like a series finale to me. However, ABC decided that, since it owns the show and can only benefit from its continued airings, it would renew the show for another season. While many people cheered this, noting that "Scrubs" in any form is still better than no "Scrubs" at all, I decided that the way it ended on May 6 was the way I wanted to remember it. Creator Bill Lawrence explained in of his excellent My Scrubs Ramblings posts why the finale was still a finale and how he would continue the series -- which has signed Zach Braff for six episodes -- as if it were a spin-off. I don't know how I feel about that, but I have all summer to make up my mind. Right now, I'm leaning toward letting the eight seasons stand as the series.
Sadly, this month also saw the passing of a longtime family friend. His wife died nearly 18 years ago, when his daughter and I were starting our senior year of high school. I hate that she's now lost both parents at a relatively young age, but am content to know that he is no longer suffering.
With death comes birth, so, while no babies that I care about were actually born this month, I am happy to report that the sneak preview of the pilot for FOX's new hour-long dramedy "Glee" exceeded my expectations. With a cast led by Broadway stars Matthew Morrison and Lea Michele, this is definitely something I will be tuning into in the fall. The folks at FOX decided to preview it following the last "American Idol" performance show of the season, hoping to keep most of the audience. It didn't keep about half, but it did gain me. I doubt FOX realizes how important that is. Anyway, I found it to be a fun little show that made me smile, mostly due to the awesome soundtrack (which included "On My Own" from "Les Miserables") that creator Ryan Murphy promises will be available via compilation CDs once the show gets going in the fall. Which brings me to the one con about this: I am all excited for this show, and it won't officially start for four more months. What happened to starting new series year-round? I think this would be a great summer show. And I will be bummed if, come fall, it doesn't get great ratings and is canceled before Kristin Chenoweth's guest appearance.
And finally, I decided this month to take advantage of my company's generous vacation time benefit and go on a two-week European vacation with my parents and sister. We'll be flying to Copenhagen, from where we'll depart on a 12-night Scandinavia & Russia cruise on the Azamara Journey. I've never taken an Azamara cruise, but the ships are smaller (700 people) and every cabin has butler service. Yes, I'm really looking forward to it! We'll get to see not only Copenhagen, but Warnemunde, Germany; Helsinki, Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia; Tallin, Estonia; and Stockholm, Sweden. I'm sure I'll have plenty to say and pictures to share in next month's update. Right now, I have to figure out what to pack.
Also, next week is my birthday. I'll be 35. I'm not averse to celebrating this milestone, but it doesn't feel real to me yet. Again, I'm sure I'll have more to say after it passes. So, I'll be back in a month!
The good news is that this month has brought incredible amounts of rain to South Florida. While I hate driving in downpours, I know it's what's best, as we've been in a drought condition for quite some time now. Of course, with all the rain comes the flurry of flowers from the tree under which I park my car at work. Because they fall on a wet car, they tend to dry up and stick to it. I'd take the car to the car wash, but I'm trying to save money for my upcoming trip while planning for my imminent pay cut. (We had six months' notice. It didn't make it better.)
This month, I was able to discover a couple of things for the first time. I started off with "Dr. Horrible's Sing-Along Blog," a three-act online musical that, when watched all together, is wonderful. I had seen the first act one day late last year, but wasn't really into it. I guess I just had to be in the right frame of mind to appreciate it. (Plus, it has Neil Patrick Harris, who I loved as Doogie Howser, M.D., currently adore as Barney Stinson on "How I Met Your Mother," and am looking forward to seeing as the host of this year's Tony Awards. Is there anything he can't do? No? I didn't think so.
And last weekend, I plopped on the couch and zipped through the 20 episodes of "Lipstick Jungle," which I never watched when it was on TV, mainly because it was on at 10 p.m., which was past my bedtime at that point. Boy, was that series a treat! I was so much fun to watch, and had Andrew McCarthy, to boot! (I've loved him ever since "St. Elmo's Fire.")
Speaking of series that were canceled before their time should have been up, I was able to watch the final episodes of "Pushing Daisies" online before ABC decided to broadcast them on consecutive Saturday nights at 10 p.m. I'm so glad series creator Bryan Fuller was able to tack on a bit to the unintended final episode that gave viewers a sneak peek at how they all lived happily ever after. Poor guy can't seem to get a break: His first two shows, "Dead Like Me" and "Wonderfalls," didn't last long, either. I may have to check them out someday. He's also a producer on "Heroes," but that's not really my thing.
This month, I also bid adieu to "Scrubs," which finished its eighth season (and first on ABC) with an hour-long episode that surely felt like a series finale to me. However, ABC decided that, since it owns the show and can only benefit from its continued airings, it would renew the show for another season. While many people cheered this, noting that "Scrubs" in any form is still better than no "Scrubs" at all, I decided that the way it ended on May 6 was the way I wanted to remember it. Creator Bill Lawrence explained in of his excellent My Scrubs Ramblings posts why the finale was still a finale and how he would continue the series -- which has signed Zach Braff for six episodes -- as if it were a spin-off. I don't know how I feel about that, but I have all summer to make up my mind. Right now, I'm leaning toward letting the eight seasons stand as the series.
Sadly, this month also saw the passing of a longtime family friend. His wife died nearly 18 years ago, when his daughter and I were starting our senior year of high school. I hate that she's now lost both parents at a relatively young age, but am content to know that he is no longer suffering.
With death comes birth, so, while no babies that I care about were actually born this month, I am happy to report that the sneak preview of the pilot for FOX's new hour-long dramedy "Glee" exceeded my expectations. With a cast led by Broadway stars Matthew Morrison and Lea Michele, this is definitely something I will be tuning into in the fall. The folks at FOX decided to preview it following the last "American Idol" performance show of the season, hoping to keep most of the audience. It didn't keep about half, but it did gain me. I doubt FOX realizes how important that is. Anyway, I found it to be a fun little show that made me smile, mostly due to the awesome soundtrack (which included "On My Own" from "Les Miserables") that creator Ryan Murphy promises will be available via compilation CDs once the show gets going in the fall. Which brings me to the one con about this: I am all excited for this show, and it won't officially start for four more months. What happened to starting new series year-round? I think this would be a great summer show. And I will be bummed if, come fall, it doesn't get great ratings and is canceled before Kristin Chenoweth's guest appearance.
And finally, I decided this month to take advantage of my company's generous vacation time benefit and go on a two-week European vacation with my parents and sister. We'll be flying to Copenhagen, from where we'll depart on a 12-night Scandinavia & Russia cruise on the Azamara Journey. I've never taken an Azamara cruise, but the ships are smaller (700 people) and every cabin has butler service. Yes, I'm really looking forward to it! We'll get to see not only Copenhagen, but Warnemunde, Germany; Helsinki, Finland; St. Petersburg, Russia; Tallin, Estonia; and Stockholm, Sweden. I'm sure I'll have plenty to say and pictures to share in next month's update. Right now, I have to figure out what to pack.
Also, next week is my birthday. I'll be 35. I'm not averse to celebrating this milestone, but it doesn't feel real to me yet. Again, I'm sure I'll have more to say after it passes. So, I'll be back in a month!
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