I've watched two movies, almost back to back, about nuns. They were aired by TCM as part of their celebration of Christmas. I'm not so sure what either of these two movies had to do with Christmas other than Christianity.
Let me step to the side and discuss Christmas movies. I never wanted to like It's a Wonderful Life mostly because everybody and their dog loves it - pretty much a formula for me hating something. But dammit, I really do like It's a Wonderful Life. It's a nice wholesome story, with a nice message. It's funny, and heartfelt, and just... nice. And in case you are thickheaded like me, it's a twist on A Christmas Carol with a more modern theme and less spooky - those ghosts always freaked me out.
Elf is another family friendly movie, driving home the Christmas message of brotherly love. It's super cute and very funny but I fear a lot non-kid-toting adults may have missed it. Basically a child ends up being raised as an elf in Santa's workshop, but when he grows up he decides to find his biological family. He is a misfit in both worlds.
The one movie could watch any time of the year, over and over and over again, is Christmas Vacation. I laugh my ass off every single time. The Griswold gang is their crazy selves but my favorite is the crazy aunt with her cat and that jello mold with Meow Mix. I don't know how you can't laugh.
So, about the nun's... like I said I'm not sure what either of these have to do with Christmas, but I liked both of them.
The Nun's Story (1959) takes Audrey Hepburn's character leaving her family's home to join a convent through her struggles as a novice and assuming her vows. This happens before World War II and deals a little bit with the impact of war. This is quintessential Oscar material as it shows a person's growth, development, and questioning her life path. It bored the ever living snot out of my husband as he walked through the room and tried to avoid the screen. Yeah, it was a little slow, and it was heavy on the churchy music. What I found intriguing, though, is the process of becoming a nun. I'm not Catholic and the chicks in the penguin get-ups are more than a little mystifying to me. In the end, I decided, you know besides not being Catholic, that I would really suck as a nun. I am really bad about following rules and they are really strict about them rules! It was intriguing, educational (to me), and overall a nice story.
Come To the Stable (1949) was soooooooo not the movie I was expecting. I thought it was going to be about the birth of Christ. Nope, nothing of the sort. At the end of World War II, two french nuns arrive in Bethlehem, New York and end up staying in a converted stable on a mission to build a children's hospital. The one nun is completely driven by faith and seems to bulldoze everyone in the sweetest manner possible. As the owner of the stable asks, "you don't expect to stay here?" the nun responds, "why thank you for asking!" And she manages to do that to everyone she encounters. I liked this movie almost as a natural follow-up, sort of, to The Nun's Story. It's like the first one is about going to school and the second one is what you do after you graduate. That's rather simplistic, but the two do fit together. This one has a lot of humor and even though you're pretty sure they will succeed in getting the hospital built, it's not a clear path.
Monday, December 31, 2012
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Sunday In My City - The Jewel Box
I've never been to the Jewel Box which is stupid because it's free and we all know how much I like FREE. It's an indoor garden in Forest Park with tropical plants, including tall palm trees - it's quite a tall building.
I really could not have chosen a more beautiful time to visit with a fresh coat of snow. There are a ton more pictures to post so you'll see them over the next few weeks.
I really could not have chosen a more beautiful time to visit with a fresh coat of snow. There are a ton more pictures to post so you'll see them over the next few weeks.
Sunday, December 23, 2012
Sunday In My City - Christmas Ornaments
I've had the hardest time capturing pictures of my Christmas ornaments. On Friday morning the sun shone brightly on my tree and proved to be the perfect light to photograph its content.
Friday Fragments - December 21, 2012
Aha! We survived the Mayan apocalypse. So, are you disappointed or relieved? Personally, I think we missed a golden opportunity to consume massive amounts of Mexican food. We thought it was a grand idea at work but we had a whole buffet of food left over from the potluck the day before. Maybe on Wednesday when we return we'll celebrate the Mayans.
Last weekend my older son got married. It was a beautiful wedding and a very fun reception.
After much coaxing my daughter got the teenager on the dance floor.
Of course the star of the show was my grandson, the ring bearer
He promptly passed out
Daddy posing by him
Because our groom had been a ring bearer 20 years ago and also passed out at the reception
Movie suggestion for the Christmas Season - The Bishop's Wife. I see it's scheduled to play a couple of times on TCM today (Sunday) at 7pm and midnight. I thought it was a sweet film that captured the Christmas spirit very well. Please make a point of looking for it.
My plan for the weekend is to make cookies!!!! Hubby doesn't want me to go overboard, except of course, to make plenty of peanut butter. I figured I will make the batters and probably use only half of each, freezing the rest. Then I can have fresh baked cookies later on. We'll see. I might just go overboard after all.
May everyone have a very merry Christmas!
Last weekend my older son got married. It was a beautiful wedding and a very fun reception.
After much coaxing my daughter got the teenager on the dance floor.
Of course the star of the show was my grandson, the ring bearer
He promptly passed out
Daddy posing by him
Movie suggestion for the Christmas Season - The Bishop's Wife. I see it's scheduled to play a couple of times on TCM today (Sunday) at 7pm and midnight. I thought it was a sweet film that captured the Christmas spirit very well. Please make a point of looking for it.
My plan for the weekend is to make cookies!!!! Hubby doesn't want me to go overboard, except of course, to make plenty of peanut butter. I figured I will make the batters and probably use only half of each, freezing the rest. Then I can have fresh baked cookies later on. We'll see. I might just go overboard after all.
May everyone have a very merry Christmas!
Monday, December 17, 2012
Movie Monday - Animated Feature
Animated Shorts has been an Oscar category for decades, but the feature length animation has only been a category since 2001. And that is a crime. All of those fabulous full-length cartoons denied recognition. Such a shame.
One of the all time best animated features, in my book, is Aladdin (1992). Aladdin and The Little Mermaid (1989) were constant fixtures in my home - books, tapes, blankets, sheets, pillows, pillow cases, action figures, stuffed animals, balls, cups, bowls, plates, socks, pants, shirts, bookbags, folders, pencils, Christmas ornaments, underwear, hats, temporary tattoos, stickers, balloons, gift wrap, and maybe a few other items that escape my memory. Of course both movies were played ad nauseum for many years at my house. My daughter is still gaga over The Little Mermaid and the songs linger in my memory. But Aladdin was the superior movie, and ranks over any that I've seen. We had the great fortune of seeing Aladdin in the theater in 1992. While nearly every movie I see is via rental viewed on a television, some are simply meant to be seen on the big screen. When the opportunity presents itself through a re-release, make a point of seeing Aladdin IN the theater. The first time the genie rises out of the bottle is one of the most impressive things you'll ever see in a movie. He is HUGE and totally fills the screen. It's incredible.
Toy Story also missed nomination contention because it came out in 1995. It too was a spectacular film with a great story. There were many other animated features that missed the opportunity. At least Shrek (2001) received its proper recognition and was the first to win "Animated Feature". I think, though, Toy Story was the one that finally broke the Disney domination of the animation field opening it up for Oscar consideration. Last year Toy Story 3 was the first animated feature to receive a best picture nomination. I suppose that may have been to make up to Pixar Studios for not nominating the first Toy Story - it did deserve it, too.
I'm still muddling through the other nominees. Wallace and Gromet, Cars, Happy Feet have been fun to watch. The Triplets of Belleville (2003), however, was pure torture. There was no dialog, this is even worse than being foreign language with subtitles! You're forced to watch it. I decided since there was no dialog that I could fast forward and still catch the essence. It's about a little boy who wants to ride in the Tour De France and is kidnapped by a bookie. It's convoluted and stupid.
I can't wait for the 2012 nominees. I haven't seen any new animated features this year so... oh wait, I just watched Brave. I bet it receives a nomination, it was really cute and FINALLY the princess isn't an orphan (a running theme of all princess cartoons). The other nominees will be entertaining to watch, I'm sure.
Most people without small children don't watch cartoon movies and they are truly missing out. The big Disney and Pixar movies are really great stories that have a lot of adult humor and are not dumbed down for the sake of their younger viewers. I strongly insist everyone take a trip through the children's section at their video store (or Netflix) and pick up some of these titles.
One of the all time best animated features, in my book, is Aladdin (1992). Aladdin and The Little Mermaid (1989) were constant fixtures in my home - books, tapes, blankets, sheets, pillows, pillow cases, action figures, stuffed animals, balls, cups, bowls, plates, socks, pants, shirts, bookbags, folders, pencils, Christmas ornaments, underwear, hats, temporary tattoos, stickers, balloons, gift wrap, and maybe a few other items that escape my memory. Of course both movies were played ad nauseum for many years at my house. My daughter is still gaga over The Little Mermaid and the songs linger in my memory. But Aladdin was the superior movie, and ranks over any that I've seen. We had the great fortune of seeing Aladdin in the theater in 1992. While nearly every movie I see is via rental viewed on a television, some are simply meant to be seen on the big screen. When the opportunity presents itself through a re-release, make a point of seeing Aladdin IN the theater. The first time the genie rises out of the bottle is one of the most impressive things you'll ever see in a movie. He is HUGE and totally fills the screen. It's incredible.
Toy Story also missed nomination contention because it came out in 1995. It too was a spectacular film with a great story. There were many other animated features that missed the opportunity. At least Shrek (2001) received its proper recognition and was the first to win "Animated Feature". I think, though, Toy Story was the one that finally broke the Disney domination of the animation field opening it up for Oscar consideration. Last year Toy Story 3 was the first animated feature to receive a best picture nomination. I suppose that may have been to make up to Pixar Studios for not nominating the first Toy Story - it did deserve it, too.
I'm still muddling through the other nominees. Wallace and Gromet, Cars, Happy Feet have been fun to watch. The Triplets of Belleville (2003), however, was pure torture. There was no dialog, this is even worse than being foreign language with subtitles! You're forced to watch it. I decided since there was no dialog that I could fast forward and still catch the essence. It's about a little boy who wants to ride in the Tour De France and is kidnapped by a bookie. It's convoluted and stupid.
I can't wait for the 2012 nominees. I haven't seen any new animated features this year so... oh wait, I just watched Brave. I bet it receives a nomination, it was really cute and FINALLY the princess isn't an orphan (a running theme of all princess cartoons). The other nominees will be entertaining to watch, I'm sure.
Most people without small children don't watch cartoon movies and they are truly missing out. The big Disney and Pixar movies are really great stories that have a lot of adult humor and are not dumbed down for the sake of their younger viewers. I strongly insist everyone take a trip through the children's section at their video store (or Netflix) and pick up some of these titles.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
Serendipity
It's a pretty word, isn't it? Serendipity? Those little surprises that somehow exceed coincidence. The ones that fit pieces together quite neatly.
I've encountered a lot of it lately especially in my movie watching. Wasn't I complaining about the excessive amount of Nazi films in my Oscar list? So I skip across yet another one Monday. Or I managed to watch Lorenzo's oil and Awakenings almost back to back (both about illnesses). I will see two or three movies with the same actor clustered together.
This happens all the time, sometimes more subtly, that if you aren't paying attention it might slip by completely. At work we have long discussed doing a huge overhaul to our webpage. I've had bigger, more pressing problems to address that the webpage has been worked on only as absolutely necessary. The donation page has been a particular problem and I've patched and patched as much as I could. This week we finally brought in an expert and her resolution is coming with a fix to my entire webpage issue. This is coincidental because "December" had been a quietly set deadline for all of this to happen.
Saturday is the 30th anniversary of a huge event in my life - not a wedding but close as far as the hoopla involved. I was installed as Honored Queen of my Job's Daughters bethel. It's an invite all of the family, special cake, printed napkins, gifts, thank-you notes, pretty dress type of event. Back when my mom was a member in the 50's some families really went all out like it was a debutant party or, in some cases, a wedding. So December 15th has stood in my memory as a fabulously happy day. And lo and behold if that isn't the day my son has decided to hold his wedding! He managed to make one of my special days even more so.
I CANNOT WAIT!
It all fits together, nice and neat, with a bow on top.
I've encountered a lot of it lately especially in my movie watching. Wasn't I complaining about the excessive amount of Nazi films in my Oscar list? So I skip across yet another one Monday. Or I managed to watch Lorenzo's oil and Awakenings almost back to back (both about illnesses). I will see two or three movies with the same actor clustered together.
This happens all the time, sometimes more subtly, that if you aren't paying attention it might slip by completely. At work we have long discussed doing a huge overhaul to our webpage. I've had bigger, more pressing problems to address that the webpage has been worked on only as absolutely necessary. The donation page has been a particular problem and I've patched and patched as much as I could. This week we finally brought in an expert and her resolution is coming with a fix to my entire webpage issue. This is coincidental because "December" had been a quietly set deadline for all of this to happen.
Saturday is the 30th anniversary of a huge event in my life - not a wedding but close as far as the hoopla involved. I was installed as Honored Queen of my Job's Daughters bethel. It's an invite all of the family, special cake, printed napkins, gifts, thank-you notes, pretty dress type of event. Back when my mom was a member in the 50's some families really went all out like it was a debutant party or, in some cases, a wedding. So December 15th has stood in my memory as a fabulously happy day. And lo and behold if that isn't the day my son has decided to hold his wedding! He managed to make one of my special days even more so.
I CANNOT WAIT!
It all fits together, nice and neat, with a bow on top.
Monday, December 10, 2012
Movie Monday - Big Accents
Have you ever considered the bad guys in movies? I think it makes sense that for decades our biggest boogie man has been eastern European. During the 40's and 50's German accents were rather devilish and they continue to pop up, but the king of all bad guy accents in the movies has always been Russian. Hell, even Bullwinkle's nemesis was Boris and Natasha.... "Borrrrrrris and Nataaaaaaasha". It just sounds evil, doesn't it?
Ninotchka (1939) was a Lenonite communist come to Paris to sell the royal jewels back to the Grand Duchess. Ninotchka was a stern Russian with no humor, no frivolity. She was all business and looked down on capitalist excesses. Her visit to the Eiffel Tower was utilitarian to observe architecture and she was insistent on taking the stairs instead of the elevator. She meets a man who shatters her beliefs. This is really only a love story, but they wove in social commentary mostly about the evils and ignorance of communism.
As far as an Oscar nomination it was for best actress. I've come to learn these nominations are for parts that display transforming characters. Ninotchka was a completely different person at the end of the movie compared to the one we met at the beginning.
It was definitely a light-hearted movie and a welcome change from some of the more serious topics that litter my list.
As I watch more recent movies I notice we no longer have a clear-cut bad guy. Occasionally a Russian or other eastern European will be among the hitmen. Germans still have that ominous accent that recalls some old feelings, but usually that is reserved for war movies like Inglorious Basterds (2009). Did anyone watch that one? It was a bloody farce that as best as I can tell was to amuse teenage boys who really didn't understand World War II. Yes, I laughed, but more often than not I cringed. The only reason it received any nomination was because it had big actors in it. Men Who Stared at Goats may as well received a nomination if we were honoring famous actors, but I guess that wasn't "big" enough.
Eastern Promises (2007) was another bloody movie, but it was a good chase, who-done-it movie. It was present day Russian mafia chasing after a man in America. And while Russians were bad guys, one was also the victim. I liked this movie, it was one Hubby and I watched together and both enjoyed. It was filled with lots of action and wasn't predictable, although I think Hubby did guess the ending at one point - that's a regular debate between us while watching movies.
We seem to be reaching these days for a new bad guy. I saw the new Red Dawn last week and while they tossed in a cameo of an evil Russian, the bad guys were North Korean. We definitely have a lot of movies about battles and conflicts in the Middle East but movie makers are tap dancing around making a blanket statement. A Middle Eastern accent is not a definitive bad thing, and maybe that's a good thing. Any more, though, I think the most consistent bad guy is home grown.
Ninotchka (1939) was a Lenonite communist come to Paris to sell the royal jewels back to the Grand Duchess. Ninotchka was a stern Russian with no humor, no frivolity. She was all business and looked down on capitalist excesses. Her visit to the Eiffel Tower was utilitarian to observe architecture and she was insistent on taking the stairs instead of the elevator. She meets a man who shatters her beliefs. This is really only a love story, but they wove in social commentary mostly about the evils and ignorance of communism.
As far as an Oscar nomination it was for best actress. I've come to learn these nominations are for parts that display transforming characters. Ninotchka was a completely different person at the end of the movie compared to the one we met at the beginning.
It was definitely a light-hearted movie and a welcome change from some of the more serious topics that litter my list.
As I watch more recent movies I notice we no longer have a clear-cut bad guy. Occasionally a Russian or other eastern European will be among the hitmen. Germans still have that ominous accent that recalls some old feelings, but usually that is reserved for war movies like Inglorious Basterds (2009). Did anyone watch that one? It was a bloody farce that as best as I can tell was to amuse teenage boys who really didn't understand World War II. Yes, I laughed, but more often than not I cringed. The only reason it received any nomination was because it had big actors in it. Men Who Stared at Goats may as well received a nomination if we were honoring famous actors, but I guess that wasn't "big" enough.
Eastern Promises (2007) was another bloody movie, but it was a good chase, who-done-it movie. It was present day Russian mafia chasing after a man in America. And while Russians were bad guys, one was also the victim. I liked this movie, it was one Hubby and I watched together and both enjoyed. It was filled with lots of action and wasn't predictable, although I think Hubby did guess the ending at one point - that's a regular debate between us while watching movies.
We seem to be reaching these days for a new bad guy. I saw the new Red Dawn last week and while they tossed in a cameo of an evil Russian, the bad guys were North Korean. We definitely have a lot of movies about battles and conflicts in the Middle East but movie makers are tap dancing around making a blanket statement. A Middle Eastern accent is not a definitive bad thing, and maybe that's a good thing. Any more, though, I think the most consistent bad guy is home grown.
Sunday, December 09, 2012
Saturday, December 08, 2012
A New Skillet
We recently purchased a new skillet to replace the battered and worn teflon non-stick ones that my husband brought into our union. I've never been a fan of non-stick. All of the ones friends and family used seem to stick as much as my hardy stainless steel. And they were fussy pieces of equipment requiring special cleaning techniques. I abhor anything with special cleaning rules. It combines "cleaning" and "rules"- two things I really try to avoid. Yes, I have tossed colors in with my whites and my sweaters into the dryer.
So the new skillet. It has a ceramic lining and is supposed to be awesome in the non-stick department.
And it is! Hubby has been using them and attests to their greatness, but this morning I made pancakes without any sort of oil in the pan. NONE!
I wish I knew what brand it is, but I don't think it matters. It's more of the style of pan more than anything and I am a convert. My poor stainless steel skillets are going to be so jealous.
So the new skillet. It has a ceramic lining and is supposed to be awesome in the non-stick department.
And it is! Hubby has been using them and attests to their greatness, but this morning I made pancakes without any sort of oil in the pan. NONE!
I wish I knew what brand it is, but I don't think it matters. It's more of the style of pan more than anything and I am a convert. My poor stainless steel skillets are going to be so jealous.
Friday, December 07, 2012
Friday Fragments - December 7 2012
How is everyone's holiday preparations? Ours are kind of on hold as my son's wedding is next week. I try not to think about things like this because I blow them out of proportion with anticipation. It's really exciting but if I don't focus on it then I will be able to enjoy it even more. The surprise of how the day will unfold will be a million times better than anything I could ever concoct in my head. And I'm one of those people who gets disappointed if things don't go as I anticipate - so I've taught myself to stop anticipating. It took a long time to learn that and even longer to make it happen.
Chicken strips seem to be the epitome of bad eating... hmm... maybe it's hamburgers... so chicken strips are a close second. But I have to say I do like eating them. What I don't like are the pressed meat variety. I want a genuine hunk of meat, batter dipped, deep fried. As we contemplated dinner one night I quipped I wanted chicken strips. And that's what we did, but homemade ones. They were fabulous and I want to make them again. We used boneless breasts, cut into chunks, dredged and floured like regular fried chicken. It was faster than traditional fried chicken, especially with these mutant huge chicken breasts available in the grocery store. I feel almost brilliant for making them. It's the basic stuff, isn't it?
What was the last movie you watched? It doesn't matter if it was in a theater. In my book a movie watched in any venue counts. Cable, online streaming, and movie rentals have opened a whole world of entertainment to us. For me cable is relatively new. I didn't spend my teen years in the 80's watching MTV videos because my parents were sheer evil, denying me this basic NEED. I do regret not seeing all of the videos my contemporaries saw, but I definitely appreciate the access now. Instead of catching up with all of the videos from my deprived teen years, I'm now watching more movies than any civilized person should. I'm watching the full gambit of Oscar contenders to crappy B films. And I'm loving it. It's only a phase which one day will pass. Oh I will eternally love the film medium of telling a story, but this obsession with movie marathons will l eventually subside.
As I write this To Kill A Mockingbird is playing. The Teenager is reading this for English class. I suggested that if he wanted to boost his grade to ask his teacher if he can write a paper comparing Mockingbird to the Sand Lot. He looked at me like I was crazy - more work??? He knows he needs to do some extra credit, but I added that teachers LOVE compare and contrast stuff like that. Is that cheating? Knowing how teachers think? It's just bizarre enough he might do it. We'll see...
I think this has been a fairly random post - definitely the stuff of a proper Fragmented Friday!
Chicken strips seem to be the epitome of bad eating... hmm... maybe it's hamburgers... so chicken strips are a close second. But I have to say I do like eating them. What I don't like are the pressed meat variety. I want a genuine hunk of meat, batter dipped, deep fried. As we contemplated dinner one night I quipped I wanted chicken strips. And that's what we did, but homemade ones. They were fabulous and I want to make them again. We used boneless breasts, cut into chunks, dredged and floured like regular fried chicken. It was faster than traditional fried chicken, especially with these mutant huge chicken breasts available in the grocery store. I feel almost brilliant for making them. It's the basic stuff, isn't it?
What was the last movie you watched? It doesn't matter if it was in a theater. In my book a movie watched in any venue counts. Cable, online streaming, and movie rentals have opened a whole world of entertainment to us. For me cable is relatively new. I didn't spend my teen years in the 80's watching MTV videos because my parents were sheer evil, denying me this basic NEED. I do regret not seeing all of the videos my contemporaries saw, but I definitely appreciate the access now. Instead of catching up with all of the videos from my deprived teen years, I'm now watching more movies than any civilized person should. I'm watching the full gambit of Oscar contenders to crappy B films. And I'm loving it. It's only a phase which one day will pass. Oh I will eternally love the film medium of telling a story, but this obsession with movie marathons will l eventually subside.
As I write this To Kill A Mockingbird is playing. The Teenager is reading this for English class. I suggested that if he wanted to boost his grade to ask his teacher if he can write a paper comparing Mockingbird to the Sand Lot. He looked at me like I was crazy - more work??? He knows he needs to do some extra credit, but I added that teachers LOVE compare and contrast stuff like that. Is that cheating? Knowing how teachers think? It's just bizarre enough he might do it. We'll see...
I think this has been a fairly random post - definitely the stuff of a proper Fragmented Friday!
Wednesday, December 05, 2012
Closure
All I want is a little closure. I'm not talking about the emotional type of closure, but the literal type, physically closing stuff. It seems to be a problem around here and it's driving me crazy. This ranks up there with putting toilet paper on the wrong way.
I thought I was safe after the divorce. No longer would I have to face closet doors cracked half open, kitchen drawers dangling mere inches away from my normal walking path, cabinets never latched. Bumps, bruises, and unresolved fears of things hiding in the dark were a constant danger.
Blissful years of things properly closed ensued.
And now I have to face these issues all over again.
Every time, and no, I am not exaggerating, EVERY single time I walk into the kitchen, I have to go through a "Stomp" like dance routine as I close the silverware drawer, the two cabinets above the sink, the one over the counter with the spices, and usually one more. And that basically means I have hit every single door in my ever so tiny kitchen. There are two cabinets that necessitate opening, rearranging stuff, and then closing. Those are almost excusable as they require some form of effort. I won't even get into the issue of why it seems so damn difficult to put the small bowl inside the big bowl and turn the rectangle thing sideways, but whatever. The other doors and drawers, however, require the faintest follow-through of a touch, not even a full-fledged "push".
Every time.
And then I go to refill the salt shaker. The little spout thingy is sticking up. Really? we can't even flip down the spout before shoving it back into the cabinet? I never really understood the inability to screw the lids on things, but this is a spout that with one hand you can nudge it against the bottom of the cabinet and it will magically close before returning it to the shelf. It just doesn't seem that difficult to me.
The real problem is, though, that none of this really matters to the culprit. I'm being obsessive. Well, maybe I am. And as in most matters, to keep the peace we should pacify the obsessive person.
Pacify me dammit and close the fucking doors!
I thought I was safe after the divorce. No longer would I have to face closet doors cracked half open, kitchen drawers dangling mere inches away from my normal walking path, cabinets never latched. Bumps, bruises, and unresolved fears of things hiding in the dark were a constant danger.
Blissful years of things properly closed ensued.
And now I have to face these issues all over again.
Every time, and no, I am not exaggerating, EVERY single time I walk into the kitchen, I have to go through a "Stomp" like dance routine as I close the silverware drawer, the two cabinets above the sink, the one over the counter with the spices, and usually one more. And that basically means I have hit every single door in my ever so tiny kitchen. There are two cabinets that necessitate opening, rearranging stuff, and then closing. Those are almost excusable as they require some form of effort. I won't even get into the issue of why it seems so damn difficult to put the small bowl inside the big bowl and turn the rectangle thing sideways, but whatever. The other doors and drawers, however, require the faintest follow-through of a touch, not even a full-fledged "push".
Every time.
And then I go to refill the salt shaker. The little spout thingy is sticking up. Really? we can't even flip down the spout before shoving it back into the cabinet? I never really understood the inability to screw the lids on things, but this is a spout that with one hand you can nudge it against the bottom of the cabinet and it will magically close before returning it to the shelf. It just doesn't seem that difficult to me.
The real problem is, though, that none of this really matters to the culprit. I'm being obsessive. Well, maybe I am. And as in most matters, to keep the peace we should pacify the obsessive person.
Pacify me dammit and close the fucking doors!
Monday, December 03, 2012
Movie Monday - Pondering Nominations
I'm still stumped. Why do some movies get the Oscar nomination and why are others overlooked? It seems that certain actors are almost automatic bait. You know the names - Bette Davis, Clark Gable, Katherine Hepburn, Marlin Brando, Jack Nicholson, Robert DiNiro, Sally Field, Sissy Spacek, Leonardo DiCaprio... When one of these heavy hitters is in the cast the nominators seem to perk up.
And that really is not fair.
Yesterday I watched Cape Fear (1991) in which Robert DiNiro received the best actor nomination. Okay, I really liked this movie. It was incredibly suspenseful, filled with lots of twists and turns, and ultimately it had a tidy ending. And you had to wait until literally the very last minute of the movie to see that tidy ending. Now I liked it, and yes, Mr. DiNiro did a stunning performance as the bad guy, but was that really among the BEST acting of ALL the movies that year?
I doubt it.
What about Four Weddings and Funeral (1994)? Again, a movie I liked, but BEST PICTURE nomination? Really? Was it because Hugh Grant was a big deal in the mid-90's? Somebody wised up in that department because ol' Hugh turned out to be a one trick pony. Need goofy, but sweet English guy? Dial up Hugh. Now Bridget Jones Diary (2001) was worthy of the Best Actress nomination, but notice Hugh Grant didn't get a nomination in either film.
As I've mentioned before I'm not a fan of Bette Davis. I've seen about four of her movies and all of her characters are the same - whiny, prissy, and self-centered. I guess back in the day the politics of the movie world made it so actors like Bette were always front and center. Jimmy Stewart? Yes, by all means, he was a brilliant actor. His characters had depth and he played them to their fullest. I've yet to see one of his films I didn't like. Bette? Total crap. Her last film, Whales of August (1987) still had her in a role like all of the others. AND the movie was a ho-hum - two elderly sisters spending the summer in their old family seaside home waiting for the whale migration. They were sisters, still fussing at each other 80 years later.
There are better sister movies out there - Crimes of the Heart (1986) really captured the interplay of sisterhood way better than the Wales of August. And yes, I recommend Crimes of the Heart highly. Southern women sporting 80's fashion in over-the-top frilly house, protecting the one who had killed her husband. It's funny, sweet, and very endearing. Yet, it too had big name actresses: Diane Keaton, Sissy Spacek, Jessica Lange, but they're all solid actresses and the story was good.
Last year the movie "Goon" was completely overlooked. Folks, this is an incredible movie. It is a total riot and I do believe there was some really good acting. Okay, maybe that's pushing it, I am an amateur movie reviewer after all. Haven't heard of it? Time to shoot over to Netflix. It's a hockey movie with a rebel player who manages to piss off nearly everybody. Both hubby and I liked it a lot and found it really funny. And yes, with good acting. It has raw language and some brutal plays on and off the ice, but it's HOCKEY, that shit is expected! If you can laugh at a bloody tooth sliding across the rink then you'll survive this movie. If you're squeemish like me, cover your eyes.
And that really is not fair.
Yesterday I watched Cape Fear (1991) in which Robert DiNiro received the best actor nomination. Okay, I really liked this movie. It was incredibly suspenseful, filled with lots of twists and turns, and ultimately it had a tidy ending. And you had to wait until literally the very last minute of the movie to see that tidy ending. Now I liked it, and yes, Mr. DiNiro did a stunning performance as the bad guy, but was that really among the BEST acting of ALL the movies that year?
I doubt it.
What about Four Weddings and Funeral (1994)? Again, a movie I liked, but BEST PICTURE nomination? Really? Was it because Hugh Grant was a big deal in the mid-90's? Somebody wised up in that department because ol' Hugh turned out to be a one trick pony. Need goofy, but sweet English guy? Dial up Hugh. Now Bridget Jones Diary (2001) was worthy of the Best Actress nomination, but notice Hugh Grant didn't get a nomination in either film.
As I've mentioned before I'm not a fan of Bette Davis. I've seen about four of her movies and all of her characters are the same - whiny, prissy, and self-centered. I guess back in the day the politics of the movie world made it so actors like Bette were always front and center. Jimmy Stewart? Yes, by all means, he was a brilliant actor. His characters had depth and he played them to their fullest. I've yet to see one of his films I didn't like. Bette? Total crap. Her last film, Whales of August (1987) still had her in a role like all of the others. AND the movie was a ho-hum - two elderly sisters spending the summer in their old family seaside home waiting for the whale migration. They were sisters, still fussing at each other 80 years later.
There are better sister movies out there - Crimes of the Heart (1986) really captured the interplay of sisterhood way better than the Wales of August. And yes, I recommend Crimes of the Heart highly. Southern women sporting 80's fashion in over-the-top frilly house, protecting the one who had killed her husband. It's funny, sweet, and very endearing. Yet, it too had big name actresses: Diane Keaton, Sissy Spacek, Jessica Lange, but they're all solid actresses and the story was good.
Last year the movie "Goon" was completely overlooked. Folks, this is an incredible movie. It is a total riot and I do believe there was some really good acting. Okay, maybe that's pushing it, I am an amateur movie reviewer after all. Haven't heard of it? Time to shoot over to Netflix. It's a hockey movie with a rebel player who manages to piss off nearly everybody. Both hubby and I liked it a lot and found it really funny. And yes, with good acting. It has raw language and some brutal plays on and off the ice, but it's HOCKEY, that shit is expected! If you can laugh at a bloody tooth sliding across the rink then you'll survive this movie. If you're squeemish like me, cover your eyes.
Sunday, December 02, 2012
Sunday In My City - Family Time
Today I got to spend a little time with my grandson. I figure it's been a while since you've seen him and let's be honest, he was my favorite sight today (although seeing all three of my kids at one time was pretty awesome).
He's a busy little guy. Wearing a batman cape (all his daddy's doing) he's digging through mama's purse and proceeded to pull out three Sharpies and two ink pens before finding her keys.
He got ahold of the other grandma's camera and snapped a picture.
From a photography standpoint I really like the quality of this picture.
After 15 different shots my daughter finally caught both of us smiling at the same time.
Saturday, December 01, 2012
Friday Fragments - November 30, 2012
Okay, truth be told, I'm writing this Saturday night. What can I say, I've been busy.
Today was the Cans Film Festival put on by a local theater chain collecting for our food pantries. For 5 cans we can see a movie for free. If we bring another 10 cans we get a pass for a movie in the future. So we each brought in 15 cans and after we watched the first movie we ran to the grocery store for another round of cans. We now have four passes to be used in the next couple of months. The only catch to it is that it's only valid Mon-Thurs. That sucks but we'll cope.
We watched Red Dawn and Argo. And liked both. I was a fan of the old Red Dawn so I was a little leery of seeing the remake. Gotta say the new one is awesome. Korea is the occupying force instead of the Soviet Union, the kids are in Spokane instead of small town Colorado, and most of the fighting this time is in the city instead of in the woods. The story lines are the same and if you like action movies, this is a must. Argo was the true story about 6 escapees from the American embassy in Tehran 1980 and how the CIA fakes a Canadian movie production team to get them out. It was VERY suspenseful and I really was on the edge of my seat through most of it, although I think I was startled more times in Red Dawn. I'm quite sure it will get an Oscar nomination this year.
My family's Thanksgiving gathering was last Saturday and quite simply, it was exhausting. And not in a good way. As I was recapping with a friend on Monday, I wondered why getting together with this group is not as easy and laid back as getting together with my friends. And the crazy thing is, all but one person in this assembly is pretty much as laid back as anybody you'll ever meet. I guess that points in the direction of the one not-so-laid-back person. I always chalked up my holiday stress because I was pulled in multiple directions, having to keep an eye on my children, or a multitude of other excuses. Clearly I need to rethink my attitude for future gatherings and prepare for the mayhem differently. You would think after twenty years of this crap I would have realized this sooner.
Guess what came out of the oven an hour ago? FRUITCAKE!!! I'm telling you, homemade is absolutely nothing like the neon-green crap from the store. The smell alone can put you in the holiday mood.
Today was the Cans Film Festival put on by a local theater chain collecting for our food pantries. For 5 cans we can see a movie for free. If we bring another 10 cans we get a pass for a movie in the future. So we each brought in 15 cans and after we watched the first movie we ran to the grocery store for another round of cans. We now have four passes to be used in the next couple of months. The only catch to it is that it's only valid Mon-Thurs. That sucks but we'll cope.
We watched Red Dawn and Argo. And liked both. I was a fan of the old Red Dawn so I was a little leery of seeing the remake. Gotta say the new one is awesome. Korea is the occupying force instead of the Soviet Union, the kids are in Spokane instead of small town Colorado, and most of the fighting this time is in the city instead of in the woods. The story lines are the same and if you like action movies, this is a must. Argo was the true story about 6 escapees from the American embassy in Tehran 1980 and how the CIA fakes a Canadian movie production team to get them out. It was VERY suspenseful and I really was on the edge of my seat through most of it, although I think I was startled more times in Red Dawn. I'm quite sure it will get an Oscar nomination this year.
My family's Thanksgiving gathering was last Saturday and quite simply, it was exhausting. And not in a good way. As I was recapping with a friend on Monday, I wondered why getting together with this group is not as easy and laid back as getting together with my friends. And the crazy thing is, all but one person in this assembly is pretty much as laid back as anybody you'll ever meet. I guess that points in the direction of the one not-so-laid-back person. I always chalked up my holiday stress because I was pulled in multiple directions, having to keep an eye on my children, or a multitude of other excuses. Clearly I need to rethink my attitude for future gatherings and prepare for the mayhem differently. You would think after twenty years of this crap I would have realized this sooner.
Guess what came out of the oven an hour ago? FRUITCAKE!!! I'm telling you, homemade is absolutely nothing like the neon-green crap from the store. The smell alone can put you in the holiday mood.
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