Baby Boomster

2006-11-05T06:50:00.000-08:00

HAS LOST GONE ASTRAY?

For two seasons, LOST, has keep a large viewing audience captured in its immense web of tangled subplots, well constructed character-defining flashbacks, while weaving a story line promising six degrees of reparations. Yet, by the third and current season, the killing off of major characters, and the stripping of various story-line threads, have left viewers disappointed and empty.

Backgrounds of the departed, seemingly following paths destined to meet at recurring crossroads of other character's journeys, now appear to be meaningless and incidental -- just as a child's chewed pencil follows a maze's path only to reach another dead end. And as new characters are being introduced possibly inciting 'other' flashback threads, too many prior uncertainties, dangle precariously in limbo.

Somehow between season two and three, the writers have LOST their way and the once, tight-knit series is quickly losing its audience as it becomes a parody of itself. The creative writing team needs to pick up the dropped stitches, before the story pattern is LOST forever in a tangled mess of loose ends. If not, LOST may go the way of "Twin Peaks."

Who did kill Laura Palmer and more importantly, who cares???

2006-06-19T12:42:00.000-07:00

GOODBYE, Fr. John ...

You left us on June 13th. I knew in my heart, you'd be leaving, but it's so hard to accept.

The world is not the same without you. You were such a good and dear friend, the best friend I ever had or will have.

Your friendship was unconditional, accepting, and caring. It was God's gift to me.

I will never forget you.

2006-05-14T12:29:00.000-07:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY - No Flowers P L E A S E

Another Mother's Day here and almost gone. Never felt so depressed - guess it's true, holidays just intensify feelings - just make it "more so."

My truest friend lies in a hospital bed, fighting the last battle of his life, and here am I feeling sorry for myself.

I just don't feel like celebrating my failure as a mother today. I am so sad. I wish I could turn back the clock and be a better mother, wife, friend, person. But I can't. I can only try to do better, even at this stage of my life. I am trying, but my efforts are as wimpy and banal as the tulips that arrive yesterday. There is no life in them and none in me.

I really don't feel like a mother, just an egg donor, caretaker, and on the whole, not a very good one for the most part. Obviously, there are issues, deep issues with my son. Keep your distance, son, it's okay. I accept it, and only wish you well. Have a happy life. I messed you up enough and only hope you can work through the anguish.

And to you my daughter, you are a good daughter. I wish we were closer, but I realize we will never have that type of relationship. I know you try and are very diplomatic, but, I'm a hard person to love unconditionally. You need to find your place in this world, a place that will remain physically distant and emotionally far away. Enjoy your independence, I truly hope you find love and happiness in your quest. I will never hold you back.

Sorry my children, I truly tried to do my best. I thought I had done a good job. I knew I made mistakes, but I also tried not to repeat my mother's. They were my own. I realize now that I am a difficult and sometimes an impossible person to love. It's not your fault, but not entirely mine either. My mother was not an affectionate, loving parent and that set a pattern partly responsible for my difficult personality, leading to many unsuccessful relationships throughout my life.

I hope you do better. You may not repeat my mistakes in your parenting, but I warn you, you will make your own. I just hope your children, spouses, friends and acquaintances will be more forgiving.

2006-02-14T07:07:00.000-08:00

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

Well a year later with17 inches of snow rapidly melting -- here we are, another Valentine's Day. This year, I specifically requested "No flowers, please!" I just can't take another bouquet of roses or tulips that sadly and pathetically droop in a few hours, or the same staid arrangements of flowers stuck in foam with a plastic base - nope -- not this year.

Take me on a museum trek, or to an art gallery with an impromptu lunch. Wisk me away to an overnight bed and breakfast. Choose a magical scent or sweet essence to please, or a bit of bling to treasure, or a spa certificate to pamper. OR ...

Forget the above. Most importantly, just be with me. Really be with me. Talk to me, touch me, hold me. Make me feel like you really care. Life is so short, it can be sweet, if we just take the time to enjoy it...together.

If you can't be fun, or spontaneous or original - it's okay if only you would be with me.

2006-02-14T06:31:00.000-08:00

WHAT ARE THE ODDS?

One of the mildest winters for the Mid-Atlantic States ever recorded and what are the odds:

A small snow storm - one day + unseasonably warm temperatures - next day = black ice following morning.

Poor guy, doing everything so right, watches his diet, eats organic and even owns a health food store, exercises nearly every morning at the gym, hits a patch of black ice driving from the gym to work, truck slams into a pole - now the healthiest corpse in the cemetery.

A neighbor so excited with his new snowblower, tests it out early in the season with the first paltry snow fall, can't get enough, so over zealous, he cleans out my driveway too. Wow - waits patiently for the next snow storm. He's so ready, December and January come and go, -- nothing! Then finally the blizzard of '06 hits! Out he goes to utilizing his super snow machine and, oh no - the belt breaks just as he turns it on. Can't go out to get a replacement because there's 17 inches of the white stuff between him and the store. Just has to dig out the old fashioned way with a shovel and lots of elbow grease. What are the odds?

2006-01-04T06:37:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR -- WELCOME 2006

Holidays were fun. Christmas in Detroit sounds like a bad Lifetime movie, but it was a most enjoyable visit and another place ventured.

Hamtramck - great food shopping, Polish bakery, Eastern market -- interesting places; lots of history, but the inner city -- so battered and beaten. A once elegant lady -- Detroit is a sad shadow of a former glorious and booming city. Half-hearted efforts to bounce back, they have built it -- but no one comes.. It needs the Gods of industry to smile once more over it's abandoned locales blessing its inhabitants with jobs and good fortune. Some how it just keeps missing its mark. Keep the faith - Motown, perhaps there is a new day dawning and the sun will again shine upon you.

Great hospitality extended by new friends. Rochester Hills - wow! Lovely houses, snow falling on Christmas night, outlining a charming brick facade with wreaths centered on a double-doored entrance -- a vision of a Christmas card in my mind's eye.

Thanks all for a special 2005 Holiday!

2005-11-15T08:11:00.000-08:00

I NEED TO WIN THE MEGOMILLION LOTTERY

Good news - lost over 18 lbs since Sept. 1. Have lots to go but this is a good start.

Bad news - life goes on day after day. Same routine, never going anywhere special. Lonely life.

Special news - have been getting interesting reactions from men since my hair change and weight loss. Doors are being held open for me, men are saying hello to me at work, and am getting looks from them at the super market and when alone. Interesting and I believe there's more to come as this incredibly shrinking woman becomes thinner and thinner.

YES, I need to win the lottery. I long to take a vacation - at an all-inclusive beach resort. Haven't been to Mexico. Wouldn't mind trying a resort either in Cancun or Cabo San Lucas or even -- Puerto Vallarta.

Take me away from here O mega lottery. Tonight!

2005-10-04T12:53:00.000-07:00

BACK AGAIN AND LOTS TO SAY...

Been too long since I've posted. Tivo has certainly changed my life. It is addictive! -- Very much like the episode of "Sex and the City" when Miranda became obsessed with Tivo. I too have found that it's like the Sirens' song pulling me to the shores of the lazy reef to crash and sink. I am a ship wreck, but have survived enough to begin exercising when I can, (with back problems - not very often, a brief walk here and there), but I am actually losing weight.

So far I have lost 10 lbs. in about 8 weeks. I signed up for Weight Watchers on line and have learned many interesting things, but have found that no matter what diet program one follows, there are no tricks and very little treats to losing weight. It's just simple arithmetic:

calories consumed - calories burned = pounds lost or gained.

One must burn more than one consumes to lose -- so simple in concept, but so difficult to do.

Funny though, it's so easy to gain weight. One, two or even three pounds in one day isn't difficult. However, losing one to two pounds seems to take at least seven days to accomplish. It just isn't fair.

When eating low calorie foods there is more quantity, but after awhile, feeling of boredom beget binges of uncontrollable appetite yearnings. When eating high calorie foods there is less quantity leading to an insatiable feeling of hunger. Finding a happy balance is the key. Portion control, eating more veggies and fruits, drinking water and moving the old bod is the true method to attain success. Realizing that this isn't a diet, but a permanent life change is a sad but true fact of achieving goal.

Luckily I like to cook and food shop and am finding low cal/high fiber treats to keep my food choices in caloric balance, thanks in part to the Weight Watchers message boards. It's going to be a long road, but 10 pounds gone, 60 to go! At my age it is better to lose slowly so that the body has a chance to firm up as the inches and pounds disappear, at least that's what I keep telling myself.

Well that's my story for now. More on a future day. Going home now to my measured, weighed and planned meal to be enjoyed in front of my TV while enjoying my special recorded programs.

2005-02-14T06:57:00.000-08:00

A Valentines Disaster - FTD.com!

This is the day to send and receive flowers. Friday, I came home to find a large box sitting on my porch from FTD.com.

I opened the box and found a bunch of tulips (20) and a large vase sent to me by my son in Valentines greetings.

The tulips were pitiful. They were extremely small, almost miniature, flowers opened, petals falling off and stems drooping and bent in a complete "U". Following the care instructions I tried to salvage and revitalization them. The vase was extremely large and was made to accommodate normal size tulips but these 20 were so scrawny that they were lost in the vase. I had another vase on hand that was suitable so I put them in that. However, even in a few hours it was apparent that the flowers were beyond hope, so I called FTD.com since there was a guarantee and a number to call if the delivery was unsatisfactory.

Speaking with a representative, I explained the condition of the flowers, and since they were sent directly from the growers in Florida to my home in New Jersey, the extremely cold weather probably were the cause of their wilted condition. However, the quality of the flower was substandard at best, especially when I looked up the order, (which were for normal size tulips) and found they cost $48.99 + shipping.

The next day, I came home to find a vase with tulips on my porch delivered by a local FTD florist.
The vase was smaller, the blooms larger, fresh, and of much better quality. However, I noticed that there were only 15 stems instead of the 20 ordered.

I again called FTD.com customer service. They determined that the FTD representative only order 15 stems as replacement for the original order. I said this was not acceptable. My son paid for 20 stems and 20 flowers should have been sent.

After a long period on hold, the rep. came back and said they would give 15% credit back to my son for the order, which amounted to $6.90. I explained that the order on the FTD.com website for 20 tulips with vase was $48.99 and that 15 stems with vase was $38.99, a difference of $10.00. The rep. send the credit was already put through and only 15% was approved.

I then asked to speak to a supervisor. Although the supervisor apologized for the matter, admitted it was handled poorly, she still couldn't explain why the replacement order was shorted 15 stems, nor she didn't offer to authorize the full credit of $10.00.

Which leads me to say: FTD.com -- you're OUT! Keep your $3.10. I hope that it compensates for the bad P.R., extremely poor business practices, and the loss of customers for your service. I told my son, who often uses FTD.com and he was very displeased, I will continue to tell everyone I know to stay away from FTD.com. This incident also makes me wonder do people actually get what is ordered? Afterall, how many recipients will question or challenge the quality of the gifts sent to them?

My advice to all is -- Instead of using an on-line service, call up a local florist in the area of the person you are sending flowers. You generally get twice as much for your money, with deliver included, and you have some say in what is being sent.

Be specific when you call. Ask what is fresh and seasonally in stock. Don't settle for the typical arrangements stuck in florist foam. Most of these arrangements use the cheapest filler flowers and are generally made up in advance. Either send a live plant, or a specific type of flower bouquet with vase. Be original. Calla lilies and daffodils make a wonderful Easter arrangement. Parrot tulips also are also nice and a bit different. Get away from mums, mums, mums and carnations, although hearty, these are the least expensive and overly used in the usual arrangements. Put some zip and originality in your gift.

For example, I received the most magnificent arrangement of Sunflowers at Thanksgiving that was just so stunning, it made the "stock" mixed arrangements pale in comparison. The person sending the arrangement made a lasting impression on me since a very special effort was made to send something unique and unforgettable.

Also, if you have the time and are giving flowers in person, don't be afraid to go to your local supermarket. Most have floral departments and you can pick out exactly what you want at very competitive prices.

Well -- Happy Valentines Day and hopefully your flowers were as fresh, colorful and abundant as the thoughts and well wishes of the sender.

2005-02-11T12:02:00.000-08:00

I'M BACK ....

It's been awhile since I posted, and lots has happened, but too much water under the bridge for details, time to forge ahead, after a very brief recap.

October -- Busy catching up on household chores left undone for too long.

November -- Great Thanksgiving spent with far away family. Very nice.

December -- Quiet Christmas, mild weather - goodbye 2004!

January -- Uneventful beginning of 2005. One of the best television seasons in years. Bless TIVO, TIVO, TIVO for keeping me sane.

February -- Two feet of snow. I hate snow; haven't been able to warm up in three weeks! Had just a few days to thaw out, back to the cold, but at least no more snow.

Back to the Present - Very exciting about a small film called Uncle Nino. Very dissapointed that it isn't playing remotely close to my neck of the woods.

Which reminds me of my 2005 Wish List:

Places/things I wish were located in my area

1) Movie theater featuring independent/art files
2) Trader Joes
3) Super WalMart
4) Natural Foods
5) Indoor Pool Facility

Mood for Valentine's Day -- Once I had a secret love...

2004-09-07T15:17:00.000-07:00

WE'VE GOT HIM --

HE'S BEEN DETAINED FOR SOMETIME --

WAIT FOR THE BIG ANNOUNCEMENT JUST BEFORE ELECTION.

IF THIS IS TRUE -- SHAME ON YOU MR. BUSH!

2004-08-14T06:56:00.000-07:00

DREAMS ...

Dreams are the songs, the music of life. When they are lost they are like smoke dissipating in the wind.

This weekend I witnessed two peoples lives smoldering in lost hope; their dreams gone. It was so sad.

One so old, one so young. Each made impulsive decisions which have changed the course of the rest of their lives. An old life -- a new life, without dreams...their dance has lost its rhythm.

2004-08-13T07:02:00.000-07:00

JIMMY SAYS..."I am a gay American"

James McGreevey Steps Down from Office... James McGreevey had an Adulterous Affair with a Man ... James McGreevey Resigns as Governor.

What really bothers me is what James McGreevey isn't saying!!! What prompted Jimmy to publicly resign from office? The recent scandals surrounding his appointees and supporters??? -- bet that's part of it. The $110,000 state job bestowed on his unqualified lover,??? also into the mix,... And of course, the alleged threat of an impending lawsuit by his former paramour if Jimmy didn't come across with a hefty amount of 'make it go away' money -- probably the final straw! What else??? Stay tuned, sure there's more to follow...

Jim Boy - where did you go wrong??? Humble beginnings in Jersey City, excellent education - Columbia, Georgetown and Harvard. Strong political ambition and success - Prosecutor, Mayor of Woodbridge, State Governor. A loving, supportive family, a new marriage, a new child -- you had it all, or so it seemed. Too bad our righteous culture finds such pleasure in keeping gays closeted living a 'don't ask, don't tell' existence. Sexual preference shouldn't be hidden, nor should it be flaunted, but should co-exist equally within the guidelines and laws of our society as an acknowleged diversity of human nature.

Nothing McGreevey's done, hasn't been done before, both in the straight and gay communities. Graft and corruption abound in political circles. Clinton bestowed a $15,000 job upon Gennifer Flowers, just as many other politicians have done unfairly awarding jobs, projects, etc.,to favored friends, lovers and business associates. Gay and straight priests have doled out parish employment to their significant others as well. But it doesn't make it right, or acceptable or honest.

Jimmy if only you'd come out of the closet - neat and clean without all the baggage of disgrace, dirty laundry and shame. You could have been an icon for the gay community and New Jersey. The Garden State would have been proud to have the first, honest and above-board gay Governor.

Jimmy: You don't understand. You coulda had class. You coulda been a contender. You coulda been somebody -- instead of a ...

2004-08-11T10:35:00.000-07:00

THE 4400

USA NETWORK has a WINNER!!! The 4400 an interesting twist on an old concept -- alien abduction ???-- maybe so, or maybe there's another explanation for return of the missing 4400. Some have vanished over 50 years and none have aged a day. There's a mysterious pregnancy thrown into the pot (visions of 'V' the series), but although the storyline and plot development have been touch upon before, the freshness of this series is in its presentation and diversity of interesting and intriging characters and subplots.

Especially gratifying is the fact that this is a limited series, so it won't lose it's edge and appeal over endless seasons. Here is another cult show in the making that leaves 'em wanting more.

The 4400 -- catch it from the beginning!

2004-08-06T12:40:00.000-07:00

HAPPY AUGUST...

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY - REBECCA & JAMIE

HAPPY BIRTHDAY - AND

HAPPY, HAPPY to ALL!

2004-07-27T11:32:00.000-07:00

RAIN, RAIN GO AWAY...

Not a great day today. Although gloomy, rainy days usually don't bother me; in fact, I generally like them, especially the misty ones, but today I just feel an impending, dark feeling as if I shouldn't have gotten out of bed. I find things are bothering me that shouldn't, people are confrontational and I'm tired of flying low under the radar.

One of the gents I work with had a car accident and was luckily enough to walk away from his totaled car, so I guess it's not a good day for him as well. Maybe we were both born under the same stars!

Can't wait to get home and hide under the covers until tomorrow.

2004-07-25T09:46:00.000-07:00

"YOU CAN CHOOSE YOUR FRIENDS..."

How true are one's friends? Hard to tell until the going gets tough - well you know the rest.

It's easy to be a friend when everything is going well, but when it isn't, will your friends be there for you? Or more importantly, will you be there for them?

When I started a walking threesome at work during lunchtime, my lunch buddy and friend with whom I shared lunch for over seven years, was pleased with the idea. We walked for a half hour of our lunchtime (official lunch period 30 min./acceptable: 45 min.) for about six months. Due to an injury, I can no longer walk.   My friend is still walking -- not that I would ask her to stop; -- however, she assumed I'd wait until after she finished, to go to lunch with her for the remaining time. (The other gal goes back to her desk to eat).

When I told her I didn't want to lose the better part of my free time to wait until she was ready for lunch, she was annoyed and perplexed. She couldn't understand why I wouldn't occupy myself or wait around until she finish the walk so we could eat together as usual.

I am selfish enough to want a whole lunch period that doesn't revolve around anyone else's schedule, and in turn, my companion is just as selfish for not being considerate of my time.  That's when I realized what we share is a relationship-of-convenience.

A very revealing aspect of my personality became clear to me as well: I'd rather be alone, than give up my time for my 'friend'; that I am selfish, self-serving and insincere. Which strangely is okay, because these negative aspects are common to both in this relationship.

I began to look at my other relationships, past and present, and discovered I have a history of relationships-of-convenience rather than actual friendships, as I suspect most do. I came to the conclusion a true friend meets three crucial criteria - tests of time, distance and selflessness.   The longer I live, the more I learn, especially about myself. I have been disappointed and sometime hurt over the years by those I thought were real friends, only to find they were friends of convenience. I now find my past experiences inhibit me to truly commit myself to new friendships.  However, I am lucky for the few true friends that are or have been part of my life. True friendship is a wonderful gift, but extremely rare.

2004-07-22T07:35:00.000-07:00

RESCUE ME

Denis Leary's new show on FX really hits home without exploiting its subject matter. Throughout his career, the public has failed to appreciate Leary's broad, brooding efforts which were showcased so well in his last series, The Job.

Rescue Me follows the aftermath of 9/11 as NY Fire Station members continue to work the job, having lost four of their own to the tragedy, leaving a common void for the survivors. Leary's portrayal of Tommy Gavin, a battleworn, veteran NY firefighter is long on character, pathos, humanity and humor. One of the 9/11 lost was his best friend and cousin who hauntingly appears as his conscience and sounding board, (the character based on Leary's actual cousin, a Boston firefighter, who lost his life on the job). Tommy carries with him the guilt of surviving the tragedy, a failed marriage, ongoing alcoholism and the departed spirits of fire victims he couldn't save. There are other characters that add interest and impact to the ongoing story, but Leary's strong performance is the string that ties it all together. In fact the title says it all... as the rescuer's life silently screams ... Rescue me!
For more info - use this link.

2004-07-16T05:34:00.000-07:00

A LITTLE BIRD TOLD ME ...

A yellow finch kept flying towards me and finally landed just within hands reach. As I watched this bit of sunshine hop about without any fear, I somehow knew there was a connection between us. Strange but true, this little bird and I shared a moment in time of peace and harmony. I love these rare, extraordinary experiences, where I loss all sense of self.

2004-07-12T10:01:00.000-07:00

QUICK NOTE ...

Caught a bit of the "Jamie Kennedy Experiment" which recapped highlights from this past season. Enough for me to want more.

Although on the same vain as Ashton Kutcher's celebrity prank show “Punk’d,” Experiment is not quite as hip, just a bit funnier. So smile for "X'd" and/or "Punk'd" -- updated, cool take offs of Candid Camera.

2004-07-12T06:10:00.000-07:00

7/11 BIRTHDAY

Yesterday was my birthday. It was a very nice one especially since I had my daughter home for the occasion. We had a celebratory lunch at Applebees, which was just perfect. The restaurant features Weight Watcher offerings with point values, and we had a full course lunch/dinner - including drinks appetizer and desserts - the light entree (which I actually didn't eat but took home) made up for the calories in my Mudslide, which was outstanding. Back to the diet today, but birthdays come just once each year -- and the tradition in our family --is the celebrant becomes 'king' or 'queen' for the day, and yesterday I was royalty. I don't need a four star restaurant to make an occasion special, just a decent meal with family and/or friends.

Before our late lunch (or early dinner), we went shopping at my daughter's favorite clothing store, which has also become a mother/daughter tradition when she comes in to town. When I arrived home I found a lovely flower/balloon basket sent by my son waiting for me. So my day was complete.

My daughter's back on the Coast, as I write this, but it was a wonderful weekend. The trek was about 3-1/2 hours away from our home; but the weekend was relaxing and unstressful. Took the Doggie Girl with us, instead of boarding her in a kennel, and she enjoyed the trip as much as we.

All in all - just a great weekend. Very lovely outing, wonderful birthday - and today an extra day off from work, to unwind from the trip. Can't get much better than that.

2004-07-08T18:05:00.000-07:00

PREDICTION??? GOOD NEWS!!!????

My vibes tell me big news is gonna break in the next few weeks (before the end of August!) Perhaps someone who is lost will be found! Mountain man beware!

Also, another break is coming our way -- the best laid plans will go awry, just fate, or happenstance, or perhaps, God is on our side as we battle the powers of ignorance and evil.

2004-07-06T05:47:00.000-07:00

ROCK ON

There is a great article in this week’s Entertainment Weekly (#773, 7/9/04) entitled “The Return of Good Alt-Rock” by Michael Endelman and Brian Hiatt.

As a baby boomer I was born at the inception of Rock. As a young child I watch Elvis gyrate his hips to the beat of his music that was new, hip and a bit scandalous for its day. The inception of Rock ‘n Roll was here! The Platters took the baton from the Ink Spots, Jerry Lee Lewis was rolling his eyes and jumping with Great Balls of Fire, along with Chuck Berry and Fats Domino. We were Rocking Round the Clock, while listening to tributes to lost loves, Peggy Sue and Donna.

As I crossed the teenage years, I watch bandstand, although too young to actually take part. In just ten years there were golden oldies with love ballads to reminiscence about In the Still of the Night, or bopped to At the Hop.

As I got older Motown dominated the charts, The Supremes, The Ronettes, The Four Tops, etc., Folk Rock had a following with Dylan and Biaz protesting the changing times; until the British invasion got into full swing. The Beatles, Rolling Stones, Animals, Byrds brought new dimensions to Rock, and then came … Sgt. Pepper, the album that changed the rock music world forever!

Peace, love and rock and roll. Emergence of The Cream, Jefferson Airplane, The Doors, and Janis, Jimmi, led the way to a new spin off – Heavy Metal. The Stairway to Heaven climbed higher and higher.

My point is that each decade developed new sounds from disco to grunge to alternative, keeping Rock/Pop fresh, new and exciting.

The well written and researched article to which I refer in the first paragraph, continues the rock journey as it highlights the up-and-coming alternative bands that are breathing fresh air into the genre. There is a new invasion from overseas, this time from Scotland, which include Franz Ferdinand and Idlewild. Other bands making sound waves are Death Cab for Cutie, Modest Mouse, The Shins, and the Yeah, Yeah, Yeahs, some of which are featured on the O.C., the pop hipster TV series.

All and all, I must say, as old as I am, I’m not stuck in one musical era or decade. Although I enjoy some more than others, they all interest me as a part of a living, evolving reflection of pop culture and history. Rock on...

2004-07-03T05:40:00.000-07:00

WITHOUT PREJUDICE

For the ultimate game/reality/pop psychology show -- BBC America presents, oxymoron: Without Prejudice.

A panel consisting of a cross-section of the UK population, chooses one person from a group of quite ordinary contestants, and, by process of elimination, awards a cash prize equal to approx. $40,000 USD).

On the surface this is merely a popularity contest, but without typical American partiality. The hodgepodge Brit panel doesn't necessarily choose the best looking, most physically appealing contestant as the winner. During the first few rounds, eliminations take place after taped biographical responses are scrutinized along with contestant's reactions to an awkward set-up situation(one scenario elicited candid comments after brief interaction with a dwarf.)

The panel members then tell the eliminated contestant why he/she is being eliminated, while often revealing their own bias and opinions, (very tacky and perversely entertaining). Host Lisa Tarbuck manages to subtly stir the pot of panelist barbs throughout, until the last round, when the panelists can question the final two contestants face to face. The only taboo is asking how the winnings will be spent.

By process of elimination, based solely on which contestant the panelists liked the most,(or disliked the least) the winner is chosen. Then the disclosure is made on how the money will be spent, sometimes to the chagrin of the panelists. For example, one winner opted for breast reduction surgery, not covered under the national health program, to which only a transexual panelist voiced acceptance and approval. By the end of the program, viewers may also develop negative opinions towards at least one or two of the capricious panelists as well. Ah, to judge is to be judged!

Inevitably, some American TV programming 'suit' will get hold of this show and try to convert it into an American offering, totally divesting the show's subtle premise and interest in the process. The difference between the cultural prejudices of the UK and the American mindset is what makes this show so appealing. America - leave this one alone. Your conversion of "THE OFFICE" is sacrilegious enough! When will we Yanks get an original concept on our own?

Without Prejudice -- Check it out on Sundays - 8 p.m., BBC America.

2004-07-02T04:55:00.000-07:00

HAPPY FOURTH ...

Celebrate East Coast style with this LINK
The more you click in the sky, the more you light up New York.

2004-07-01T08:04:00.000-07:00

DON'T MESS WITH MY DAILY FIX

For nearly 30 years our household was a cable TV family, and as time passed and broadcasting channels replicated faster than streptococcus in a Petri dish, we increased our network packages, until we were paying nearly a C-note per month for equipment and service. (Remember TV is my drug of choice.)

Now for that much money one would expect all the Premium channel packages as well as some nifty sports groupings in the awesome clarity of digital channels for the small extra fee of the digital box rental.

Well, not quite so. Since we live in a rural area, the equipment and boxes on our community poles hadn’t be upgraded yet (going on over 5 years), and, although we were entitled to -- and paying for --higher band, digital channel groups, a good portion of the channels were either fuzzy or just not coming through. When we called our cable service about this, we were told we could either wait until they eventually upgraded the equipment and be satisfied with the channels we were receiving on the higher digital bands, or they could shut off the entire line-up and block all the channels in the digital band, which would reduce our monthly bill by approximately $3.00.

What choice is that??? None! -- There is no compromise on the part of the Cable company. It is pay up or no more IFC, Bravo, Sundance, Lifetime Movie Channel which are a part of the high digital band that incorporates the 6 channels that we don't receive and the 4 or that are fuzzy and unwatchable.

Now since deregulation, the cost of cable has skyrocketed and just recently, increased again. Every time the government deregulates an industry – telephone, power, cable, -- it seems to me -- the consumer gets screwed! Costs increase, while quality and availability of services/products decrease. So deregulate this --

Saturday our satellite dish is being installed, and for less than cable was costing, we will be getting all the premium channels and all the digital stations that were offered by cable and then some. This means about 20 extra channels for $10.00 less per month, including TIVO as an extra feature!

So goodbye Cable TV ... it was nice while it lasted! The horse and buggy are being replaced by the horseless carriage. Given time, however, as more people switch to satellite dishes, I expect the rates will climb instead of decrease, the dish equipment deals and rebates will disappear, which logically doesn't make sense, but most likely will occur. But until then, we're cashing in on the savings by switching over.

Next stop -- HD plasma TV. (Told ya I'm hooked.)

2004-06-30T07:00:00.000-07:00

FRACTURED FAIRY TALE ...

(Per 6/24/04) Mary Kate O -- Evidently food isn't your drug of choice. (what is?)

GOOD TV

Caught the preview of a new CBS Fall show: Navy NCIS starring Mark Harmon. Although I never cared for military programs such as JAG (or hospital programs such as ER), I was very impressed with the two back-to-back episodes last night of Navy NCIS, and believe CBS may have snagged a potential audience by premiering this show on a night with very little competition in its path. (Good move in planning on someone's part - give that 'suit' a raise!)

The plots are well constructed with interesting trivial facts thrown in (such as: 9% of the world's population is left-handed and this statistic hasn't changed since the stone age (based on studies of cave paintings, except for a certain tribe, -- ah, nevermind, if you didn't see the show, you missed this fascinating piece of non-essential knowledge, so you'll just have to watch the show when it airs again.)

The personalities of its team members make this more than just a crime investigation show, especially with the addition of Abby, a 'Goth' forensics scientist who is smart, sassy and adds a glam sparkle to the cast. Of course, there's the token brillant, but a bit-daft-Brit pathologist, Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard,(David McCallum) Although this is supposed to be a tense, dramatic show - how punny can you get -- Dr. Donald Mallard, really!, but Mr. Former Man From U.N.C.L.E. McCallum somehow refreshes this tired stereotyped character and makes Dr. Mallard just ducky.

Looks like a winner to me, and I know I'll be tuning in on Tuesdays when the new Fall lineup gets in full swing. Check it out: Link

2004-06-29T11:58:00.000-07:00

IT'S A 'MAD WORLD'

All I can say about Fahrenheit 9/11 is that the messenger's ego seems to have overshadowed his message. Michael Moore's documentary is in essence a docu-drama. It is interesting how the politically far-left as well as the far-right extremists can't make their cases in point by using clear and well-documented facts. Instead they must spin webs of half-truths or use creative editing in presenting their viewpoints as gospel. Their opposing perceptions of reality are neither solid nor unequivocally honest, but slanted to reflect their polar positions.

In this time and circumstance we must unite to defeat the maniacs who are fanatically trying to destroy our freedoms, our way of life, our nation. They kill without conscience or remorse. Need we be reminded that we are at war with terrorists, not each other.

...I find it hard to tell you
'Cos I find it hard to take
When people run in circles
It's a very, very
Mad World -- Tears for Fears

2004-06-25T05:53:00.000-07:00

STOP SMOKING - ADD YEARS TO YOUR LIFE

I smoked cigarettes for a long time; quit many times and went back many times. However, thanks to Zyban I was able to finally cease and desist in my early 50's. This is a very difficult thing to do. I know first hand how hard it is, but quitting can add years back to a smokers life as found in this recent British study.

I figure I got back about 5 years of my life, and at this stage of the game, I hope to make the most of them.

Anyone under 35 should seriously consider making the effort to stop smoking, since they then will have the normal life expectancy of a non-smoker.

GOOD LUCK!

2004-06-24T12:24:00.000-07:00

SHORT TAKES ...

MARY KATE O -- evidently food isn't your drug of choice. (what is?)

ETHEL, um I mean, ESTHER, or: -- Kabbalah, Kabbalah bo balah, Bonana, Fanna, Fo fabbalah -- Fee, Fy, Mo Manalah - Madonna!

MICHAEL M -- don't have to ask you what your drug of choice is. (next Moore docudrama: "ATKINS AND ME")

PARIS H -- Fill in the blank: you could be another Lincoln -- (if you only had a ______!)

THE DONALD -- hair here, hair there, no stylist anywhere! (Words for Mr. Trump to Hair Club for Men: 'You're hired!')

JAY LO -- can't carry a torch for long or for less than $36,000 --
(got that Mr. Anthony).

BEN A -- lucky at cards - unlucky at love. You got the better of the deal. (as per above).

BEN S -- dodgeball - you call that a game?? -- You want a real kickass game: Mr. Kish's kickball is a real game for winners. (inside joke).
P.S. You're only as good as the box office on your last couple movie(s)and this movie saved your Hollywood tush. Two things in your favor -- the competition on release week and employing the Mrs. to double future unemployment checks if needed.

BABS S -- Mrs. Focker -- how very descriptive!

DICK C -- F U too! (By the way -- appropriate first name!)

DONNIE DARKO - (Sequel: ZOMBIE LOVE STORY - Donnie Darko meets the Wicked Witch of the East; and they 'fall' for each other.)

Don't need a plane engine or house to fall on me to know it's time to go -- with one last thought ...

LONG TAKES ...

Colin Farrell - 'A Home at the End of the World' -- Waiting for the DVD release (uncut version, natch!)

2004-06-23T04:58:00.000-07:00

DUSK AND FIREFLIES

Last night at dusk I happened to look out to the front door as dozens of fireflies twinkled over the lawn as they tend to do at this time of year. But for a moment in my minds eye, there were two fanciful children prancing about trying to capture the illusive, intermittent pulsing lights.

The barefooted little girl, twirling and turning in her nightgown round and round, her long, soft hair dancing in the mist of the evening air. She is the essence of childhood's lost games in her light-hearted innocence. The young boy pouncing at his prey with the challenge of serious competition. He must master this task and capture the most to place in the jar.

The evening ends as the light fades and the prisoners are released to the darkness of the night to fulfill their destinies.

A decade later the two youths are grown, down life's path to fulfill their own destinies.

I miss them.

2004-06-22T04:57:00.000-07:00

MY LIFE - BILL CLINTON

Dear Mr. Clinton,

Your lies, I mean your life, isn't worth $35.00. I personally wouldn't contribute one copper Lincoln to your coffers to assist in justifying your tainted, sordid and shameful behavior. You can spin all the fairy webs of inaccuracies, excuses, fabrications and use all the charm and wit of a mischievous boy who got his hand caught in the cookie jar, but it's still no go with me. It's incredible to watch the left-wing-celebrity liberals rally around you propagating your deceit. Can that many people be so out of touch with reality that they truly believe your gossamer 'tell-all' tale? Or are they children of the sixties still tripping the light fandango?

Let us remember:

1) Your definition of "is." vs. Webster's definition of "is."
2) "I did not have sexual relations with that woman..."
3) Gennifer Flowers, Paula Jones, Kathleen Willey, (just to name a few).
4) Vince Foster/Webb Hubbell/Whitewater Land Deal
5) The hawking of 'time shares' to the Lincoln Bedroom.
6) Travelgate/Filegate
7) Etc., Etc., Etc.

As we all know, you have trouble inhaling -- as well as keeping your foot out of your mouth, so here's a little piece of advice ... put a cigar in it, and try smoking it for a change.

2004-06-20T16:51:00.000-07:00

MY LIFE IS BORING...SO WHAT'S NEW WITH YOU?

Today was a beautiful day. Took my mother out to lunch, and gave a waitress (not my table server) a $10.00 tip - just because she was having a rough time with several tables full of demanding, nasty customers, and she definitely could appreciate having one good and unexpected experience turn her day around. (Of course, I also left a tip to my server). By the way -- My day was horrible, and the only thing that turned it around was that I helped someone else have a better day.

2004-06-17T12:52:00.001-07:00

DEPENDS FOUND IN LARRY'S GARBAGE

There may have been a "Depends" found in Larry King's garbage, but I wish it was found in my mother's trash instead! I buy them, but she doesn't wear 'em, and she needs 'em!. Guess who gets to do her laundry!

Also what interesting tidbits can be found in your garbage????

2004-06-16T11:42:00.000-07:00

HAPPENSTANCE

Had a doctor's appointment yesterday. The specialist shares an office and is part of the practice of my referring doctor. Since I had just seen the referring doctor last week, he had me leave my MRI films and X-rays in the office to be reviewed by the specialist for my upcoming appointment.

The day started off bad and went downhill from there. Hit a detour on my way to the appointment, as well as construction with flagmen directing two-way traffic into one lane on another roadway and still managed to get there 15 minutes early as requested to fill out paperwork. I was the only one in the office for a lunchtime appointment at 12:30 p.m.

The office began to fill up because there are about eight doctors with different areas of expertise in the practice, and, although I was first on the sign-up list for mine, people arriving after me were being taking in to the examining rooms. After about 45 minutes, I questioned why I wasn't being called in, and another 20 minutes later, I was finally taken in to see the doctor. After answering 10 minutes of questions by the nurse, she realized that I was taken into the wrong physician's room, because the new-girl-in-training put my folder in the wrong bin.

Thus I was escorted back into the general waiting room for another half hour. Finally called back into an examining room where I waited another 15 minutes for 'my' doctor. When he finally arrived, he asked a few questions and then wanted to see my films. I explained the films should be somewhere in his office, so he left to check and after lots of discussion and scurrying about, he returned and says no one could find then, but let's wait until the original doctor finishes up with a patient to trace their whereabouts, since they were left with him. With that he left the room. Another 20 minutes later both doctors enter the room and my original doctor says he doesn't remember what he did with the films, but believes he sent them back to the radiology file room at the hospital.

Without the films the specialist didn't do anything except take my co-pay and tell me to come back in a month (guess it gives him time to find the missing films). Thus nothing got accomplished, except I was charged for an office visit, spent three wasted hours there and an hour in traveling and detour time back and forth to the office.

Today, I called the hospital radiology department and there was no trace of my films, but I explained the situation and the file room attended contacted the doctors office, and spoke to someone who, evidentially made a concerted effort -- and in a few hours time, found the missing films.

When I received the message that the films were located, I called to thank the people involved, and somehow in our conversation, found out my next appointment had been scheduled with the wrong doctor again. It seems the office staffer not only put my chart in the wrong bin, but also assigned me to the wrong doctor in the computer. Luckily I was able to change the appointment, so in a month I will again try to see the right doctor to get an opinion.

What a rigmarole, topsy-turvy experience. It reminded me of an episode of "Curb Your Enthusiasm" where Larry David visited his doctor's office and had conflicting experiences with the sign-up sheet versus actual appointment time -- and, as with my encounter, it turned into a lose-lose situation. As Mr. David so creatively demonstrates in his story lines -- humor is based on happenstance to which we all can relate.

2004-06-14T10:11:00.000-07:00

SHORT TAKES ...

Welcome back to: Six Feet Under. This season's premium episode was better than anticipated, especially the program's customary introductory death scenario reminiscent of Edgar Lee Master's Spoon River Anthology. This week, a college student met his death as he plunged off his dorm building under the influence of LSD. ('60 flashbacks anyone??) Each cause of death is unique and unexpected and always lends a recurring thread into the weave of the story line. Also, the fate of Nate's missing wife, Lisa was resolved - as her drowned body washed ashore. It's good to have something worthwhile to fill the Soprano's 9:00 a.m. slot.

Also, Showtime's Penn & Teller: Bullshit has some interesting commentary on such hot topics such as Recycling, P.E.T.A, and the Bible, that makes the opaque, accepted viewpoint transparently fallacious.

I LOVE MY PREMIUM CHANNELS - MOVIES, ORIGINAL PROGRAMMING, AND NO COMMERCIALS - worth every penny!

2004-06-14T06:58:00.000-07:00

BE FRANK, WHO IS DONNIE DARKO???

Donnie Darko is being shown on one of the premium channels, and for the life of me, I don't know why, but I can't pass up watching it over and over again.

I'm not certain what's so fascinating about this ominous, brooding movie. Perhaps because it's original and intriguing with an exceptionally good cast, or it's murky, surreal plot is a kaleidoscope of everchanging colors and shapes. The bizarre glimpses of insightfulness into the meaning of life and inter-personal relationships give credence to it's countdown of impending doom. Or perhaps I read much more into it than what's there.

The one certainty of the film is its excellent music score, especially the song playing as the end credits roll. Fade out, Donnie Darko.

2004-06-10T05:09:00.000-07:00

CICADA UPDATE

As I made my way this morning from the parking lot to my company's entrance with the still lilting Cicada crescendo in the background, I found I needed to step around carcasses of those who have met and fulfilled their destiny.
Ah love is a killer!

2004-06-09T13:26:00.000-07:00

CLASS REUNIONS

My high school is having a reunion this year. It is a milestone anniversary as all reunions are, and I have no interest in going, because:

1) The friend(s) that I want to see I still do.

2) I don't really care about the others, especially their successes, their failures, their children, their grandchildren, etc.,

3) These affairs usually bring out the glory boys -- and rah rah girls.

Glory boys are those who peaked in High School and must relive their glory days, with every game they participated in, with play-by-play narratives, as well as every date they went on, every silly prank they pulled and, in general, still envision themselves with a full heads of hair, tight abs and achieving a mid-to-high level in the ranking pool of 'cool/hip' guys. Mirror, mirror on the wall...
-

Rah Rah girls are those who cheered at varsity level games, were cute, slim, perky, popular, dated the captain and/or major sports players, were homecoming queen or in the homecoming court. Also generally conceited, shallow, self-absorbed, snooty, and at times, even cruel. A few have kept their slim figures, but nearly all were sun worshippers and now their faces look like a roadmap of the LA freeway.

4) Most of these people now are old, fat, bald and boring, and -- I'm not. At least 2 out of 4 -- I'm not!

2004-06-08T11:29:00.000-07:00

OUTSPOKEN...CONTROVERSIAL...HATEFUL...INSENSITIVE...CALLOUS...

"Bush should have died, not Reagan" -- Morrissey.

... JUST PLAIN STUPID!

'Nuff said!

2004-06-08T05:08:00.000-07:00

MIA FAMIGLIA ...

Growing up in an Italian-American New Jersey urban family was a cultural experience in itself, especially in the days of TV's "Father Knows Best," "Ozzie and Harriet" and the "Donna Reed Show."

Talk about a wonderful sitcom premise -- my extended family had so many characters much too colorful and quirky to possibly be fictional creations or figments of my imagination. My family was nothing like the reflections of those I watched so religiously on TV, but they are my family and I am who I am because -- and in spite of -- their influence.

I thought I'd highlight one of them every once-in-awhile with a short biographical outline from the perspective of my personal relationship and memories.

Today meet ... Uncle 'Photo' Joe

Uncle Joe was my mother's brother. One of 16 children out of 23 pregnancies, Uncle Joe was - to say the least - eccentric. He spoke his mind, was stubborn, argumentative without a lick of common sense or social graces. He was a slight, thin man, vain and self-centered. He also was mentally challenged, actually a bit crazy, formally diagnosed with some mental disorder during WWII, and honorably discharged because of it.

Somehow in his youth, he became an apprentice to a photographer and developed a true talent in photography. He began his own business and, although dabbled in various artistic fields of photography, specialized in weddings and became very well-known as his business prospered. Rich and poor came to him to have their weddings immortalized by the renowned Joseph. Years later, his claim to fame, once removed, was that he took Frank and Nancy Sinatra's wedding photos, when Frank was still a bar room singer struggling in Hoboken before his rise to Bobbysox idol.

Uncle Joe spent his money as fast as in rolled in. For many years this was not a problem since he was rolling in the green. He had his nose fixed, (unusual in those days for anyone who wasn't in theatre or the movie industry). He had a weakness for very pretty woman, and would tip $10.00 for a 5 cent cup of coffee served by an attractive waitress. He hung out at all the popular nightclubs in Manhattan and was quite the dancer. He dated many woman, but the ones he attracted were beautiful, shallow party girls, accepting his lavish gifts and stringing him along until the party was over. As long as the greenbacks bulged in his pockets, there were endless stream of party girls to help decrease his bulging trouser pockets (in more ways than one.) He developed many "friends" whom were just hangers on, since Uncle always picked up checks and treated his chums with gifts and "loans," which were never paid back. Unfortunately, he wasn't quite that generous to his own family, but hey, what the heck. He did take care of his mother, since he was the only one left who remained unmarried, and they shared an apartment together which adjoined the photo studio.

Photo Joe eccentricities became more pronounced as the years passed. He had a fixation on outward appearance. He would candidly tell a handsome groom that his future wife was ugly and he was much too handsome to settle for such a 'mutt,' or vice versa. He hated smoking especially by woman and was known to pull a cigarette out of a mother's hand, stomp it to the ground, and tell her she was as disgusting as her habit and a terrible example for her child. He had several scrapes with the law because of this as well as other incidents. Being slight of build and relatively good looking with his new nose, he was sometimes mistaken for gay and often hit upon by men. He developed such an aversion to homosexuals, that he spouted a litany of the "gay who's who" in the entertainment industry, and would openly expose many personalities to anyone who would listen. Everyone thought he was crazy, but his information was quite accurate, so I knew about Rock Hudson, Tab Hunter, Liberace, Raymond Burr and many others way before they came out of the closet. Of course, no one else actually believed him and chalked it up to just crazy ramblings -I mean --Rock Hudson such a handsome, leading man, dating all the starlets, only a lunatic would spout such absurd tales about such a manly man!

Well, down the road, Joe's business declined due to lots of competition and his less than complimentary comments to his patrons. The hangers on left for greener pastures. He eventually lost everything. He even sold the negatives and rights of Frank's Wedding pictures back to Sinatra, so he lost the credit to his last claim to fame and recognition. All that was left was his camera.

He then put a sign stuck in the band of his fedora "Photo Joe" and began doing freelance work, roaming New York's five boroughs, taking pictures of accidents, celebrities and anything that he could sell to the newspapers for a quick buck. He became well known as a fixture at Times Square, where he could be found arguing with the soap box preachers or taking 'street portraits' of the Ladies of 9th Avenue. A kindly priest, who had some influence at City Hall, managed to secure a press pass for "Photo Joe," so he could continue to scratch out a meager living getting passed the police lines and fire barricades as he followed the sirens of his newly-revamped profession. Photo Joe had many a picture on the front pages of the Daily News and Mirror in his day.

His last years were spent in a boarding house. He often visited our home on Sundays for a good, home-cooked meal, offering stories of his glory days and miscellaneous celebrity gossip tidbits in exchange for our hospitality. He always came with his camera, but never took a photo when he visited. I thought it strange, but now realized he couldn't afford to waste the film or flash bulbs, since he barely made enough to live on from his freelance work. However, he taught me some ballroom dances, since I was the only member of the household that attentively listened to his stories without argument or doubts. (I still can do a mean merengue thanks to Uncle Photo Joe).

Every year he would go for his "vacation" -- by signing himself into the Veteran's hospital, where he would get three square meals a day, a little pampering, and enjoy a week or two resting in the solarium and walking the grounds.

A once-extremely talented and gifted man, Uncle Photo Joe, wandered off into obscurity, after a big and final argument between my family and him. It seems my brother wanted Photo Joe to take his wedding photos, which was an unreasonable and unrealistic request. Having nothing but his old camera, poor eyesight and what was left of his pride, Uncle Joe couldn't deliver, and disappeared until after the wedding. Of course, my brother was able to hire a photographer and had his wedding photos as momentos, but in the process, Uncle Photo Joe had lost the last ounce of his self-esteem and dignity as well as contact with our family.

Thus, I remember my Uncle Photo Joe, who was many things to many people. But in some ways he was a visionary before his time. A zealot against tobacco and liquor, and a devotee of health foods and vitamins. He detested overeating as gluttonous, ate meat sparingly, believed in fasting, and the benefits of drinking lots of water. He was colorful, interesting, talented, a bit pathetic and most importantly -- memorable. Here's to you Uncle Photo Joe.

2004-06-07T13:05:00.000-07:00

NO ONE IS OUT THERE ...

I blog to a void of nothingness and no one. My thoughts, rants and trite observations are sucked deep into a black hole in hyperspace. And yet I rally in the freedom of the process.

2004-06-07T03:38:00.000-07:00

ONE GOOD PRIEST ...

An upbeat comment to my criticism of the Pope, his statements and his church. Last night I went to a Silver Anniversary celebration for a good friend and wonderful priest.

There were nearly 200 people in attendance to honor Fr. John, who came into our local parish nearly 20 years ago, and to whom I had the honor of working with. During his term as parish pastor, I learned so much from this truly great minister of God.

Although Father served in four parishes and is now a hospital chaplain, no one from my parish was there to honor him except for my spouse and me. There were so many times he expended himself in this parish, counseling the troubled, introducing new ministries and programs, working with the other local pastors in a bridge of ecumenical friendship, and repairing and maintaining church buildings and property that had been neglected for years. As I sit at the table last night, I couldn't help but feel the absence of my community's parish people whose lives Father had touch in so many ways.

Many stories I could share here about this man, some funny, some poignant, but these experiences are many and fill an entire chapter in my life's book. One of the best lessons he taught me was by his example and his trust in the goodness of man.

We often had people come to the rectory door looking for a handout. Whether substance abusers or just down on their luck, Father never turned anyone away. He always feed them, offered them use of the parish showers, purchased new clothes or shoes, and sometimes put them up for an evening or gave them a few bucks from his own pocket for "their next meal on the road." He only asked that when they got back on their feet, they'd pass on the kindness to someone else less fortunate.

I once questioned him about this practice, asking him how he knew if these people were truly needy or just pulling a scam.

He simply answered me as follows:

"If a man comes to me asking for help under false pretenses, shame on him. But if a man comes to me asking for help and I turn him away, shame on me. We all must answer to our God for our actions, he for his, and I for mine. I am here to minister, not to judge."

Even the governor of New Jersey sent his best wishes with a State proclamation to this humble man. Thank you Father John and God bless you! You have strengthened my faith by your example and by your loving kindness to all. I will never forget your wonderful parish leadership, but most of all -- I and my family will treasure your friendship forever.

2004-06-06T10:16:00.000-07:00

A DREAM RENEWED...

Will wonders never cease. My dream of chucking it all and starting anew has not been completed dashed!

My life's partner has admitted the dream is tempting and has not thrown out the baby with the bath water. Although cautious, he doesn't want to continue the mindless road being traveling in our thankless jobs and monotonous lives, but now is considering the alternative of pursuing a last dream.

In fact, this idea would make a very promising TV series or even a wide-open premise for a book -- that is: two married baby boomers reaching the stage of their lives where they must determine their future, looking at the harsh reality of the lives as victims of downsizing, lost pensions, reduced incomes, and a future without hope of comfortable financial retirement and leisure. The joke of expiring under the yellow reflection of the golden arches, or run down by the shopper stampede to the blue light special is, in all actuality, what they are facing, since there isn't any financial nest egg except the equity left after selling their handyman special family home and it's furnishing.

However, with children raised and moved away, the dream to sell it all, and live one last hurrah, is a wonderful alternative to the conservative certainty of their last years together lived in frugality and boredom.

Here's the plot:

The boomers sell everything, buy a new, small SUV and set off cross country for a month-long adventure of a lifetime. Starting from New Jersey, the couple leisurely make their way to Seattle, WA, to meet their final destiny. Imagine the subplots that can develop -- the people that they meet along the way, the stories and lives they experience, as the criss cross the country through cities, small towns, mountains, deserts, national parks, eventually arriving at their final destination to finish off their once dead-end lives, with enough memories from their travels to carry them through their last years with dignity and renewed strength.

Not a bad scenario!! Remember ...

Fairy tales can come true, they can happen to you, if you're young at heart!

2004-06-04T11:00:00.000-07:00

THE POPE WEARS A TIARA ... AND SPEAKS THROUGH HIS HAT!

"Ambiguous moral positions, the distortion of reason by particular interest groups ... are just some examples of a perspective of life which fails to seek truth itself and then abandons the search for the ultimate goal and meaning of human existence," John Paul said.

He urged church leaders to be courageous despite detractors. "Some today view Christianity as weighed down by structures and failing to respond to people's spiritual needs," he said.

"Rights are at times reduced to self-centered demands: the growth of prostitution and pornography in the name of adult choice, the acceptance of abortion in the name of women's rights, the approval of same sex unions in the name of homosexual rights," he said.

"The Catholic Church forbids abortion and considers homosexual activity a sin."

Yep, Johnny Paul, you really see the moral dilemma we Americans are facing, and if you look hard enough, you will find it especially in your own church. Turning away from the Catholic church is a by-product of decades of maltreatment of the Catholic laity by the Catholic clergy. Sexual abuse of innocents, financial misconduct by pastors and bishops, my oh my, years of denial, misuse of power, persecution of victims, lies and debauchery, have taken their toll among the loyalty of your once-faithful followers. And yet JP, you speak of "the distortion of reason by particular interest groups" -- when the Catholic church is one of the greatest offenders.

It took years for the church to start to clean its own house, and only did so because the sexual clergy abuse scandals were so wide-spread and so far-reaching it couldn't control the gigantic monster it had created and nurtured for so many years. The church tried, but the beast burst from the darkness to the light of the public domain and with it, Mother church lost all credibility, with its blind and unwavering position of denial.

The church may consider homosexual activity a sin, but how many of the clergy are themselves sexually active homosexuals? The church condemns prostitution and pornography but how many of the clergy have and are leading truly celibate and chaste lives?

With donations declining, the church needs to reassess itself, if it again wants the financial support of its congregations. It must give back for the years of neglect and exploitation to gain back the trust, respect and support of its people. The Catholic clergy was itself a factor in creating the "self-centered demands" for which the Pope now criticizes the American people.

So JP, in the name of God, stop criticizing your people, and start nurturing them.

2004-06-01T06:55:00.000-07:00

ROADKILL TV ...

The WB Superstar USA is the latest contribution to RoadKill TV, which emulates American Idol only showcasing the worst of the worst singers/performers, who supposedly believe they are the best of the best.

Since there was nothing on TV last week, I ventured to watch this show for the first, and believe me -- the last time. Whether these contestants truly believe they have talent is questionable. Obviously, this brings reality TV to an all time low, but whatever floats your boat! Suffice it to say William Hung would have been disqualified on the first audition.

I've dismissed most of reality TV, Idol included. This genre has run its course, and no matter what island, hardships, disgusting bugs or inners are offered to finicky palates, or which creepy crawlers crawl into bed with greedy, lecherous contestants, I will no longer subject myself to roadkill TV. No more surgical makeovers, dating and mating shows -- all gone from my viewing list. Goodbye Paris and Nicky -- don't further submit yourselves to the indignation of rubbing elbows with the common folks -- it's so hard for us all to see your Gucci's covered in pig shit.

(Evidently Paris is truly talented in one area and certainly has the making of an Adult film star as showcased in her homemade video. Maybe she should stick with what she knows and does best!)

Andy Warhol certainly hit the mark about the pursuit of 15 minutes of fame. But although 15 minutes can seem like an eternity, the entertainment industry needs to get 'real' - - it's finally over!
Get the 'beat' boys and start packing up your offices for the unemployment lines ...

Bad Boys, Bad Boys, Whatcha gonna do, whatcha gonna do when they come for you? ...

2004-05-26T05:45:00.000-07:00

THE LIVING LIBRARY...
When we are young, everything seems so far away, time is unbearably endless; anticipation and fulfillment of dreams are delightful, exciting adventures.

As we grow older, time catches up to us. Our expectations and goals are just within reach. Hard work and achievement brings us to the tip of the rainbow, as we bask into the multi-colored light of life's choices. We are almost there.

And then there are the golden years ...
Time speeds up like a merry-go-round gone askew. We hold on as we go round and round, faster and faster. We blink our eyes and we are in the last chapters of our biography. The end is inevitable, but how we fill those last pages are significant.

It's our final chance for fulfillment before the book is closed.

And so, as I begin to form the outline for the last chapters of my story, I project a last hurrah of sorts. My hope is to leave all behind and travel cross-country, seeing the wonders of the country --east to west, before settling in the city of misty harbors, coffee shops, public markets, and museums.

Unraveling my tale to the second lead of my life, the idea was received with silence, but not dismissed. There was hope. When finally confronted with projected actions to make this last vision a reality, the silence was broken with words that destroyed the possibility for: "and they lived happily ever after."

The beginning chapters of life's book are variable, with extraordinary scenarios and character development as its roots are to a tree. The middle volume weaves story fragments into the sturdy tree base branching into the limbs of experience. But as the season change, there is but a brief moment of magnificent color and glory before the leaves wither and drop off and life becomes dormant.

I've lived my life within the boundaries of convention and the perimeter of family responsibilities. I will not wither and die with blank verse for my last chapter. If need be, I will depart as I have lived for far too long ... alone... "and she lived happily ever after."

2004-05-25T07:02:00.000-07:00

THE DOGGIE GIRL ...

Since I have never had a four-legged pet as a child, during my married life, my husband who is a cat man - (I know it's unusual for a man to be a cat person, but he is what he is) introduced me to the world of cats. So BK (before kids) cats were the pets of choice since their independence had the least impact on our childless social life.

Once the children came, and our cats went on to that Wild Kingdom in the Sky, my daughter wanted a dog. My husband wasn't receptive to the idea, so we decided to appease her with a cockatiel. KC Bird sufficed for awhile, but her request for a dog lingered in the back of my mind. I remember as a child that I always wanted a dog, and was told 'no' -- no explanation, no appeasement, just no. (My mom was so averse to any type of animal - and Dad paid the price with many years of spousal compromise for bringing home Skippy the Parakeet, that the topic was as forbidden as a conversation about the "birds and bees". Sex wasn't discussed, because, in my childhood domain, it didn't exist! Another topic for another day.

Well I decided that my daughter was not to be denied (at least that would be one less childhood trauma for her to hold against my parenting efforts), so utilizing my wifely skills (wink/wink! No, I really just nagged mercilessly) until, with quiet hostility - my other half's strongest emotional weapon -- we all went off to The Puppy Farm an in-breeding kennel in our area (which is again a completely other story), so my daughter/and I could finally get her/our puppy.

She chose the Doggie Girl, a red brown lass whose demeanor was quiet and unresponsive to human contact. She looked like a cute, miniature Ewalk. A Lhaso Apsa who wasn't supposed to grow larger that 7 - 8 lbs., or at least that's what the store attendant said. Yeah, right she's twenty-three pounds,, and the little sable colored darling eventually turned white to my dismay. There went the cute "little" Star War's ewalk. (Told you The Puppy Farm is a whole other chapter.)

My daughter dressed her in doll clothes and 'mothered' her, pampered her, annoyed her and loved her. My son trained her to stand on demand and beg, moving her paws as a gesture of "please." My husband, as stubborn as they come, was in a constant state of pout during her puppy years, ignoring The Doggie Girl; and when she annoyed him, would go into the kitchen and distract her by kicking at her food dish. She became extremely protective of her food, and my husband's habit of kicking her food dish, made her almost fearsome at eating time. No one dared get between The Doggie Girl and her vittles without a battle scar to remember the occurrence.

Well, anyway, as time passed, our little Doggie Girl learned that petting wasn't the most terrible human offense to her person and allowed us the privilege to touch her, if only for our own needs. Of course her squeals of delight when the right spot just behind her ear was rubbed, was only for our benefit.

The Doggie Girl trained us as much as we trained her. She demanded a treat whenever she did her business, and still to this day accepts her reward for a job well done. The Girl's major accomplishment,however, was winning over the last holdout to her charms -- the Master of the House. He eventually came around, and became the Doggie Girl's biggest conquest, doting on her more than the rest of us.

My children have grown and have moved to the West Coast, and now, 12 years later, Doggie Girl is the queen of the house. She is a bit sway-backed, has arthritis in one paw, (which decidedly has turned outwardly giving her a bit of a Charlie Chaplin walk,) and her eyes are a little droopy. She manages a few retrievals of a ball before she walks away from her one and only exercise session of the day. She isn't able to jump up on high places or furniture as she once did, but what she lacks in physical stamina, she compensates with the most extensive vocabulary of whines, moans and groans, a language she developed independently, to let us know her every desire. She is very vocal and very spoiled, as she looks up at the biggest recliner in history,(a Christmas gift gone awry!) and beckons to be lifted upon the Master's grandiose burgundy velour throne. She may be willful, annoying, and demanding at times, but no matter what anyone else thinks (and they all think as I do) -- she is my much beloved Doggie Girl and I respond to her every command...afterall I had 12 years of training!

2004-05-25T06:37:00.000-07:00

Cicada Symphony ...

I woke up this morning to the lilting choirs of the beady, red-eyed, transparent-winged, large, black, ugly cicadas. Their lingering mating song is like constant background static or white noise that invades our everyday lives to mask individual sounds around us. I did not hear the usual cooing of the morning dove, or the petulant mimic of the mocking bird. There was no buzzing of the bumblebee in the flower garden, since the accustomed sounds of nature have faded to the background in reverence of the long-anticipated symphony. Less than 30 days and this will be a forgotten memory, just a nuisance to we humans, but to many of nature’s predators, cicadas are a once-in-seventeen-year delicacy and will have served a useful purpose in the life cycle of our planet. So if you’re lucky enough to be in the audience of this year’s concert, listen as I do, with a new awareness and respect to the extraordinary performance of the millions of emerging cicadas.

2004-05-24T16:59:00.000-07:00

Just a Thought ...

Driving home tonight, after a hot, muggy day, a flash rain storm briefly passed through, cooling the evening air and leaving behind the refreshing scent of wet grass and moist folliage. Somehow -- for just a moment, it felt so good to be alive, with no other thought in my mind, except the serenity of being in the peaceful stillness of dusk. And in my mind's eye, for a singular moment, I was one with the universe. Truly a moment with God.

2004-05-23T08:43:00.000-07:00

SHORT TAKES ...

Congrats to ...

Mel Gibson - living La Dolce Vita. Put his money where his mouth was, produced his passion, rode the waves of criticism and is living his prestigious lifestyle through wisps of his $100 Cuban cigars, draped head to tow in Armani and worshipping in the Church that Mel built. A real American (via way of Australia) success story!

Drea De Matteo - Snuffed out of her role on the Sopranos ... morphing as Joey's sister on (what else) but the Friends spin off,Joey. (Drea has a real, believable pisan look to her, and will give some credibility to characters on the new show. She could walk down any NJ street with nary a glance. Let's hope she doesn't go all Hollywood on us and adapt the plastic, Stepford look). Keep it real Drea!

Arrested Development ... This interesting, off-beat show was given a last minute reprieve and another shot on next season's schedule. The series needs a good time spot to find it's audience. It is not only one of the most original shows produced on the regular networks in years, but probably could have become a big hit on a Pay-per-view channel in it's first season. For all who are too cheap to pay for premium channels -- tune in to Arrested Development next season, and feel like a big spender!

Bummer to ...

Mr. President - George W. is blowing it big time when even his staunchest supporters are having second thoughts. His No. 2 man, Cheney, certainly was influential in securing the spoils of the war (most of the large contracts) for his former company, Haliburton and their off-shoots, and while the administration spouts how the economy is improving (improving for whom?), more people's unemployment is running out by the week while the Federal government denied approval for the three-month extension, which was once in place. Less people may be collecting, but doesn't actually mean more people are employed. Keep this up, Georgie, and Howard Stern could run against you and win! GET A GRIP!!! Lose your father's cronies, seek opposing views and strategies from a consensus of your constituents, give better tax breaks to the middle class, keep jobs in America, tighten up the borders, beef up security and anti-terrorist forces and get the gas prices back in line ... Awe the hell with it... You obviously aren't interested, so why not just take another vacation to prepare yourself for the permanent one after November.

2004-05-16T14:53:00.000-07:00

THE AMAZING SKIPPY BIRD...

I never had a dog as a child or, for that matter, any pet. My mother, had no use or love for animals of any sort, so we remained petless, until my uncle Al decided to raise and breed parakeets.

You must understand, My uncle Al, the big game hunter, was also a professional hobbyist. Model trains, fishing, hunting, boating, gardening, and last but not least, parakeet breeding, were all, at one time or another, his passion. His sister, my Aunt Emma, was not one to be outdone by her younger brother, so she too indulged in recreational endeavors including: ceramics, sculpture, pastel chalk and oil painting classes, but although the same creative blood flowed so generously in our native artists such as Michelangelo, DaVinci, Raphael, Titan, etc., my Aunt Emma was artisically anemic. Her unsuccessful efforts at piano lessons, gourmet cooking classes, gardening, finally turned to the inevitable, bird breeding. It seemed my whole extended family became enamored with parakeets. Go figure!

One day, my father came home with a blue/grey young bird, which he had obtained from my Uncle Al. Of course, my Dad was given the special family discount for the bird.

I named the bird Skippy. He was a blue/grey, and was a real character. Since the rest of the family lost interest in the constant and repetitive training lessons needed to develop his vocabulary, songbook and tricks, I spent the most time with him. He soon became finger-trained, spoke a few phrases, whistled a few tunes, took showers in the sink and wrestled spaghetti off our Sunday dinner plates. He and I were the best of buddies, and he was a great companion for many years.

Out of all the birds in the various family's household, Skippy was the smartest, best trained, most responsive and intelligent bird of all. No one else's bird could hold a candle to Skippy, and some jealousy arose between my cousins and me, because without a doubt, Skippy was the star pet parakeet of the family.

Although My Uncle Al couldn't train any of his birds nearly as well, he compensated his bruised ego by bragging that Skippy was the top of the line from his stock, and my Dad should be grateful for the privilege of purchasing the best at such a discount. (since he could have gotten triple the price from an outsider).

However, my Aunt Emma was a different story. She was a miserable failure at breeding, training and raising her birds. I was never fond of my Aunt Emma, but being my father's oldest sister and the most fiancially comfortable of the clan, she was held high in the pecking (no pun intended) order by the rest of the family. (I truly believe the real reason was that each family wanted an 'invite' to her shore home each summer, hey it's was a free vacation -- and although I never liked her, I must admit I did like her shore home!) So she was given a wide berth, and her vanity constantly stroked by insincere compliments as she placed herself in the position of the family expert on everything.

One day Auntie Emma was visiting our home while I was out playing, and when I came in, the house was extremely quiet. I didn't hear any Skippy sounds which was more than unusual. I ran to his cage, and there was no Skippy. I looked at my father whose countenance was extremely glum. My dad finally told me that Aunt Emma, the bird expert, had been over and had noticed that Skippy's beak and toenails needed clipping. Unfortunately she had an accident and had mortally wounded Skippy as she was 'trimming his beak.'

I was devastated and cried, screamed and went hysterical. My friend, my companion, my Skippy was gone. My Aunt had killed him. My father bought home two other parakeets to try and compensate my loss, but they weren't Skippy and it was never the same. I never cared about my aunt's shore house after that. Never wanted to go visit her, and never forgave her.

Skippy wasn't the only victim of Aunt Emma. There was a family legend about another bird who was to have his toe nails trimmed by the nefarious Auntie Em, and wound up known as Peg Leg Pete, never to nest on a perch again. I wasn't quite sure if this was a true or a family urban legend, but years later, as old age approached, Aunt Emma started walking with a distinct limp, which developed into total dependence on a cane. Arthritis was the official diagnosis, but I never believed that. Arthritis didn't explain the raw, red, larged-pored, bulbous nose that she also developed. They say what goes around, comes around, and I knew in my heart, that my Aunt was the perfect example of that old adage.

2004-05-15T05:06:00.000-07:00

AMIDST THE CLUTTER ...

I am a clutter bug. I live in a vortex of 30 years of clutter. I save everything. The problem with a clutter bug, is that when a special coupon, recipe, gift, or article of clothing is needed or just perfect for the occasion, it usually cannot be found. But it seems other treasures that were utterly lost previously, suddenly appear during the ongoing search for the new, totally unrelated item.

I have a theory about such occurrences. There are the clutter gremlins whose sole purpose is to foil any attempt in utilizing the saved mishmosh of a clutter bug's reserves. These spiteful little critters live in the eaves and nooks of my cluttered home, coming out precisely at the stroke of 13 each night to perform their mischievous tricks and pranks. Those Christmas ornaments purchased after the holiday last year, inevitably show up at Easter, and so on and so on.

Buy two and get one free! - That's for me!!! (Even if by the time I utilize one - the product is hopelessly outdated and unusable!

Buy your holiday/birthday gifts early and put it away until the special occasion arrives! -- I'm still finding gifts purchased in the '80's such as a baby gift for a friend's child who is now graduating from college. Oh well, I just put it away again for the original recipient's future first born, which will be even more desirable since vintage is so in!

Does this sound remotely familiar? After all, there is a bit of a clutter bug in all of us.

Not long ago, I had a rude awakening after seeing a program on some obscure cable channel describing the aforementioned, thrifty, virtuous and good-intentioned behavior as a 'disorder,' Imagine me -- suffering from a disorder??? Oh no, not me. Thus my crusade began to clean up and out the piles of clothes, toys, gifts, expired food items and to turn a new page and a new leaf on life, (and to assure myself that I'm not clinically obsessive).

I started with my closet. I had filled one and one half large garbage bags of clothes in just one month. Although I must admit I did pull a few items out to wear in between, just a few, well maybe more that just a few -- but I will put them back in the bags soon.

Each morning I awoke with determination that when I arrived home after work, I would devote just one hour to clearing out some new area, dresser or pile, but alas, the road to hell...

And, just when all seemed hopeless, I had an epiphany! Yes, folks - eBay! -- The paradise and happy hunting grounds of the nations prime and first class clutter bugs! All my treasures up for bid and on their way to the lucky winners, well almost on their way -- (as soon as I can find the packing tape, scissors and labels that the gremlins have successfully hidden in the mounds of packing peanuts converting my basement into a sea of white foam).

But the point I wish to make is, I can no longer be classified as an obsessive-compulsive. No, no! I've proven I can or will -- at some time, divest myself of all the "stuff." (That tape and scissors have to be somewhere and when my metal detector arrives, I'll find them in a pinch and fulfill my new calling as an entrepreneur).

Until then, I now fit into the category of a delusional idiot!

2004-05-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

FOOD FOR THOUGHT...

I have a love/hate relationship with food. On one hand I really love food. I enjoy eating to the point it is a more of a pleasure than a necessity. I enjoy cooking, scouting out new recipes, and trying different foods. My grandfather, uncles, parents and brother, all had Italian restaurants at one time or another, so I was raised in an atmosphere of tomato sauce and pasta (or as genuinely known by Italian Americans: macaroni and gravy)!.

My favorite family restaurant was my Uncle Matty's which was stereo-typical; but to me -- charming, nonetheless. Subtly lit, it was quaint and brick-walled. Of course, there was the required fresco -- the focal point of the dining room, centered on the large, plastered wall depicting the hills overlooking the Bay of Naples. And the floor was scattered with groupings of wooden, pretzel back chairs and tables covered in red checkered cloths, centered with dripping, candled Chianti bottles with straw bottoms.

When we visited our relatives' restaurants during business hours, there was the food that was served to the patrons, and the 'family food' made especially for us.

But on the day when the restaurants were closed, typically Mondays, the extended families would get together on a semi-regular basis and each would contribute his/her specialty to an ensuing feast.

The antipasto was usually provided by the host of the family dinner. A palate of mixed colors, various textures and varieties of cured meats, soft and hard cheeses, assorted condiments and vegetables, it more than included a daily allowance from the entire food pyramid, and accompanied with crusty Italian bread or sesame bread sticks, it was easy to forget this was only the appetizer.

There was also stuffed mini-eggplant, stuffed artichokes and stuffed mushrooms. Do you see a pattern here??? No vegetable was edible unless prepared with olive oil, bread crumbs, capers, garlic and/or assorted sharp cheeses.

My uncle Al, the hunter, provided venison or rabbit, which was marinated in herbs, spices, wine, and cooked in a tomato based stew which was truly memorable. During different seasons, different game was brought to the table such as roasted pheasant, duck or quail. During the summer, fish took over as his contribution which included stripe bass, blue fish, blow fish, fluke, flounder, whatever was the catch of the day.

There was always home-made macaroni and gravy, which my parents took the honors of making and preparing. (We had a cotton sheet, which was used exclusively for the drying of the macaroni, which usually took overnight, so someone had to sleep on the couch). Of course the gravy had meatballs as big as tennis balls, hot and sweet sausage, spare ribs, rolled, seasoned pork skin, and rolled stuffed flank steak (brasole). My mother had a thing for rolling up meat.

My grandmother would make polenta, trippa, calamari, scungilli salad, picked or fried eels, baccala (salted, dried cod) and other yucky delicacies, which I usually passed up, for the more traditional and identifiable fare. (By the way, when in doubt, we were assured anything questionable was chicken; however, it didn't work well with the split,roasted lamb's head whose eye and tongue silently refuted the lie).

My Aunt Minnie's specialty was dessert. Her cannoli were to die for --and yes, she made her own shells! But she also made all the holiday specialties, including the Christmas honey balls, wheat and meat pies, Easter sweet egg bread, St. Joseph's pastries, zeppoli, and a ricotta cheese cake that was truly her masterpiece.

My Uncle Paul was the winemaker, as well as the master of liqueurs. (Won't go into where he got the alcohol to make them, but it's not too difficult to figure out. Remember we were from the neighborhood). We kids were allowed to have wine mixed liberally with soda, usually lemon or ginger ale, since the homemade wine was exceptionally potent.

After the big feast, the women cleaned up, while the men had their traditional card game as the large jugs of wine passed back and forth amidst the players and billowing wisps of cigar and cigarette smoke, and we children ran around until we finally conked out in the corners of the room.

Waking up to the sounds of the inevitable argument between the men or woman or both, shouting aimlessly above the crescendo of each other's loudly-pitched voices, whatever the topic, it was believed to shout and scream was the only way to score a valid point in the heated debate. To watch this spectacle of frustration was almost comical. With no listeners to the other's point of view, there were no winners, nor changes of opinions, just very animated, gestured discourse. To end the fruitless fracas, my great uncle would get out his mandolin, my father would strum (badly)on a guitar, and the family would sing Italian classics to bring harmony once again to the table.

Before going home, it was time for the best course -- dessert. All Aunt Minnie's heavenly creations were displayed front and center amidst fruit platters, finnochio(fennel),roasted nuts, espresso, peaches and/or cherries soaked in wine, spumoni, and an assortment of Uncle Paul's finest liqueurs. The pause between the main course and the final one was over, and at last it was time for my favorite part of the meal. Yum!

The official end of the dinner was ceremoniously signaled by the men, who unbuckled their trouser belts -- the true rating of a Italian gourmand - one notch or two -- which determined how successfully the dinner met with approval!

So perhaps -- this -- one of my earliest memories of food, is why I have a semi-sweet love affair with the culinary side of life. Why not join me in the delights of childhood's lost memories with every bite!

Bon appetito, mi amici!

2004-05-07T15:55:00.000-07:00

DO YOU BELIEVE IN MAGIC??

It's said that everyone is psychic (no not psycho, but psychic)!

Although some people believe I am, some think I'm not, some aren't sure, I do have my moments!

It is quite clear the first time this was evident. I was a child of the city, and as most city children of my day, played outside on the sidewalks and steps of the houses on my block, basically a street urchin until beckoned home by the automated street lights.

When I was five or six, I was tagging along with a group of neighborhood children who were playing with a toy roulette wheel. On that day, I was included in the game and I kept winning and winning and winning. At first, my playmates were amused, then amazed, and began looking at me in a new light of interest and even respect. Since I was the youngest in the group, my usual place in the pecking order was dirt bottom ... gofer ... hanger-on. But on this day, as I kept picking consecutive winning numbers, my newly-impressed peers began counting how many I would guess before I missed. I remember that I rarely missed and usually, had runs of numbers in the range of at least 10 to 15, before my pick was off by a digit or two from the winner!

How did I do it? I would concentrate, really concentrate, clearing my mind of all other thoughts, and a number would just pop into my mind. I could almost hear it. This wasn't such a special feat to me, it was something that was always there, at least until that day.

I also remember for the first time in my young life, I was, on one hand, not just an accepted equal, but someone special with a talent that was beyond the others in the group. But on the other hand, I was someone different in an eerie way from the norm. I was no longer playing the game, I was the game!

Thus, my gift became a curse, and ultimately I learned it was best to keep my ability to myself. As time passed, there are reasons, which I will not reveal, why my ability never developed further, but rather was suppressed and -- even lost for a time.

Unfortunately for me, I can no longer predict winning numbers, neither on roulette wheels or lottery tickets or of winning race horses. However, throughout my life, at random times -- I get feelings, impressions, whispering thoughts, so to speak, which come to my head out of nowhere, -- either telling me something about a person, place or event that is in the past, present or future, but proves to be quite true! It is eerie, sometimes disturbing, but I've come to respect these feelings and especially heed any that come in the form of a warning.

So I do believe in magic, esp, premonitions, conscience, prophecy, superstition, clairvoyance, woman's intuition, -- call it what you will.

I will share -- here and now, -- with all of hyperspace, my personal belief, my own explanation of this phenomenon:

There is a little voice in each and all, and I like to think it's the voice of our own guardian angel, whispering secrets, giving us guidance, that most of the time, we are too busy or too preoccupied to hear.

Clear your mind of the clutter, and listen, really listen closely ... Do you hear your angel?

2004-05-06T10:52:00.000-07:00

OLD FRIENDS HAVE LEFT THE BUILDING...

With all the razzamatazz regarding the last episode of FRIENDS, I'd rather wish fond goodbyes to other shows that are leaving the air this season. Those that will be lost in the feeding frenzy of the departure of FRIENDS, and so I bid adieu to:

FRASER - A show that spun off CHEERS, and developed into one of my all time favorites. Although Fraser wasn't an especially memorable character during his appearance on CHEERS, for me, Fraser came alive amidst the wonderful characters found in his Seattle home and workplace.

Brilliantly written scripts, a super ensemble cast, funny, funny, funny, for so many years, and somehow, just when it seemed to get a bit stale, the plots again revived with a second wind of great plots and belly laughs. I would try to mention some of my favorite episodes, but there are just too many, so suffice it to say, I will always remember the Cranes with fondness and a smile, Daphne in red dress dancing a riveting tango with Niles, and a lodge getaway fiasco of mistaken revolving doors opening and closing as characters play physical "telephone" trying to connect with their perceived secret admirers. One tall latte for all!

ANGEL - Also bowing out of prime time is ANGEL. Another spin off, and strong show that has a faithful, loyal following and, once again, this season perked up with the inclusion of Spike to the roster. But, alas, Angel will also be retired before his redemption. However, call me lightheaded as blood rushes to my jugular, but I believe Joss Whedon (the creator of BUFFY, THE VAMPIRE SLAYER, the precursor of ANGEL), may have other ideas for his beloved characters. There may be new life with future sequel movies featuring a combo of the characters from both series. Star Trek anyone????

THE DREW CAREY SHOW -- Drew put Cleveland back on the map with his blue collar humor and Buzz beer ethics. Screwball characters, yo-yo relationships, dancing extravaganzas, -- there were some over-the-top fun times in good ole' Cleveland thanks to Drew. Who can ever forget the Time Warp Rocky Horror parody! Almost as classic as the original.

Well doors close and doors open. I'm enjoying some new shows which help with my sense of loss of the old, for example ...

TRU CALLING - interesting first season -- a decent play on the good and evil premise with the introduction of Jason Priestley (Jack) as the foil for Eliza Dushku's character(Tru). Next season promises to develop into a fast-past competition between the two.

JOAN OF ARCADIA - I just really like this show. The scripts are a little slow in the smooth flow of episodic development, but the acting and likeability of the characters more than make up for it. Perfectly cast: Joe Mantegna as Will Girardi, Mary Steenburgen as Helen, Amber Tamblyn as Joan, Jason Ritter as Kevin and Michael Welch as Luke, need I say more?

COLD CASE - Another excellent show, following the lead of CSI, this show has lots of originality and spawns a different tale of murder unsolved, finally getting a chance to be resolved after years of dormant inactivity. Each tale is unique as its victim, and the use of flashover montages melding the characters back and forth in time is interestingly unique.

DINNER FOR FIVE -- Love it, feel like I'm living vicariously rubbing elbows with four different celebrities each week, enjoying relaxed, intimate dinner conversation and really getting a sense of the personalities of my companions. The best part is that I leave the table within my calorie allowance in tact.

Note to Jon Favreau: Enough about SWINGERS. Need you mention it nearly every week! Yes it was a good picture, yes it won acclaim, but time to move on to new projects and stories! Thanks.

---So I still look forward to the rest of The SOPRANOS season. (Love the inclusion of Steve Buscemi this season, since we lost Joe Pants (Pantoliano) my boy from Hoboken!).

---Await the new SIX FEET UNDER and CARNIVALE seasons and

---Check out whatever A&E, DISCOVERY, HISTORY, IFC, SCIFI, COURT and SUNDANCE, channels have to offer to round out my viewing time.

As a boomer, growing up in the "age of television" -- TV is one my best friend and companions, loyal for so many years -- entertaining me, educating me, and even putting me to sleep -- it is always there when I need it -- It is my drug of choice!.

2004-05-05T07:29:00.000-07:00

WHO KNOWS WHERE THE TIME GOES

Seems like the older one gets, the faster time passes. I seem to get less and less on my "To Do List" accomplished these days. I've wanted to post more frequently, by there just isn't enough hours in the day. So maybe some shorter, but more frequent posts, will help me ramble on a more, regular basis.

Quick observations:

Why do people pick their nose when stopped for red lights? Ugh - Car boogies!

Why do people not wash their hands after using the facilities if there is no one in the room? -- Caught you - huh!

Why do men love to scratch their privates parts in public areas, especially on sports courts, arenas, and fields? Crotch rot anyone?

Why do woman say, "Size doesn't matter", Face it guys, it does! Your family jewels or your wallet -- one of them better be sizable!

What about men who say: "Over a hand full is too much," Yeah, right! --can't even comment on this without coughing up some silicone!

Well, "Time is money, look in the clock." This little ditty sure dates me, but I'm sure only a few, very, expert TV trivialists know from where it originates, and for those I say ...

Good night, Mrs. Calabash, wherever you are!

2004-04-30T07:54:00.000-07:00
THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT...

Maybe it's me, but far too many of the Film Industry's current movies are just plain crap. Big budgets, little budgets, somehow the premise of telling a story seems to escape a vast number of today's filmmakers. With expensive, special effects, over paid actors, and over-the-top directors, movies are high on action, blood, gore, sex, but extremely low on plot -- their stories are literally lost in translation. Yet there are some films which are both entertaining and genuinely memorable.

Finding Nemo, Lord of the Rings Trilogy, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, all are big films with big budgets that were justified in their success in making profits and finding large audiences.

However, some of the sweetest films are independent, low-budget projects which have also found large audiences and became award-winning successes. Lost in Translation, Whale Rider, The Sixth Sense, Dirty Dancing, and My Big Fat Greek Wedding, are some examples of independent or small films that found large audiences. All are excellent movies deserving their praise, awards and acclaim.

I judge a good film by it’s personal effect on me -- either it invokes some type of emotional response, or completely sweeps me away from the reality of my life. Fluff movies can be fine too -- and sometimes therapeutic. I thoroughly enjoyed Freaky Friday, it was cute, well made, silly and just plain fun, which is unusual for a remake!

I want more thought provoking films like Schindler’s List, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, The Manchurian Candidate, A Beautiful Mind, and Midnight Cowboy. I want to be swept away on desert dunes with Lawrence of Arabia, sing on a mountaintop with The Sound of Music, laugh ‘til it hurts with the thought that Some Like it Hot. Emerge me in the intrigue of The Maltese Falcon, Chinatown, LA Confidential, Rebecca and Laura. I want more of : The Mighty, Welcome to the Doll House, The Piano, Stand by Me, Dominic & Eugene, Arsenic and Old Lace, and Almost Famous.

So Hollywood -- as Kurt Cobain songfully demanded – "Here we are now/ Entertain us!"

2004-04-23T19:15:00.000-07:00
IDOLISM

Just a few passing thoughts on American Idol, a show I watched from it's humble beginnings, two season ago, up to last Wednesday's show, when we bid adieu to Jennifer Hudson.

I can no longer take the media hype or the buzz around the water cooler every Thursday regarding the latest finalist who was unjustly voted out, or rather, I should say, who received the least amount of votes. I just don't care anymore.

Let's face it, the cream will rise to the top. Whether voted out or voted the American Idol, the truly talented will find success, be given a record contracts and fulfill his or her dreams due to the exposure the show has given them.

Case in point -- Kelly Clarkson, the first winner of the original season, is still turning out successful records and concert tours, while her popular runner-up, Justin (whatwashisname???) had his 15 minutes of fame and is out for the count. [Though very popular with the audience while on the show, he did not generate enough CD sales to keep his recording contract, and his movie with Kelly beach-bombed big time.] Fickle fans evidently have moved on to ... John Stevens and/or possibly William Hung.

Also who was the other guy who hosted the first season along with Ryan Seacrest??? Yes there were two hosts on the first season's shows.

As the second season winner, Ruben Studdard continues to perform concert dates (with just a minor delay from the fuzz on his 'grass-root' bus tour). Although Ruben has achieved a reasonably successful music career with respectable music sales, his runner up, Clay Aiken burst onto the charts at No. 1, has been touring with first season's winner Kelly Clarkson, and is the undoubtedly, the most popular male Idol graduate to date. So it's a bit uncertain who actually is the top winner of season two.

Several other talented Idol "losers", are winners in anyone's book, with their careers blossoming, for example: Tamyra Gray and Kimberly Locke.

As for Season three's offerings:

-- Simon's comments and criticisms are becoming tired and repetitive. His only original remarks are just silly putty put-downs of vague physical characteristics, i.e. you remind me of ... Jay Leno (said to Amy) or Stan Laurel ... (what else could he say to John, he's told him for several consecutive weeks that he's just out of his league and doesn't belong in the competition).

-- Paula is still trying to maintain the adage, that if you can't say something nice... But it's not working. Her comments seem stale and insincere and her generic "good job" seems to cover everything from the excellent to the mundane.

-- Randy attitude since his weight loss shows you can teach an old 'dawg' new tricks, and with every pound lost, he's gained a super-critical attitude nit-picking at all, but the most nearly-perfect performances each week, with his especially favored 'bitchy' - oops, I mean -'pitchy' comments.

-- Ryan is so overexposed, that his five o'clock shadow is now at 6 p.m.

And so I wish good luck to: Fantasia, La Toya, Jasmine, Diana and George -- you're all winners and it doesn't matter which one of you takes top honors this season.

Chin up - Amy and Jennifer, you may be the next Tamara or Kimberly.

And to Simon Cowell, I say:

Congratulations -- you are, in fact, the biggest IDOL winner of all, reaping the most financial rewards from the finest montage of talent discovered, while enjoying the benefits of a top ranking TV show and a very "A" list celebrity profile. Sweet!

And finally, to American Idol, I say --

Boomster - O U T !

2004-04-23T03:20:00.000-07:00
MAKE MINE LOW CARB, PLEASE...

Poor Dr. Atkins never saw the true success of his theories take off with the hysteria and abandonment of today's low carb followers. Perhaps the tweeking of his regiment by a fellow colleague who developed the South Beach Diet, just a low carb program with some wiser, reduced fat choices, was just what the doctor ordered, so to speak, to get the craze started.

Anyway, it's gone crazy. Everywhere one looks, fast food restaurants, the regular supermarkets, TV cooking shows, all now have low carb agendas. Will it be successful??? Will more people finally shed the excess pounds they've been trying to loss with better and long lasting results???

My answer. Probably not.

I believe low carb, low fat, and/or restricted-calorie diets all work, if followed faithfully. The problem lies with the person who begins any weight-loss program and after several weeks/months, begins to "cheat." Or after losing the weight, let their old eating habits, creep back into their lifestyle, and soon, they are even heavier than they were in the first place. Thus the yo-yo dieting syndrome occurs.

There's no special trick to this folks, no magic pills or formula. It's simple arithmetic -- limit calories, exercise more, use more energy that you take in and ... viola -- minus the pounds. Making wise food choices is helpful in getting more quantity for your calorie budget, but all this is easier said then done. With the abundance of decadent, or just plain junk foods on every market shelf and restaurant menu, the temptation to sooth one's soul with the comfort of Ben and Jerrys Chunky Monkey, or (fill in the blank here with your favorite _______), will probably consume (no pun intended) 3/4 of the calorie budget for the day. The beginning of the end of any sensible eating plan.

How do I know? What makes me the expert on diets? Because I am the perfect example of the constant dieter, struggling each and every day with the battle against food. I'm the perfect example of the professional dieter, still waiting for the next new plan to change my life and my weight.

I truly know, all I need to do is be consistant in make wise food choices, utilize sensible portion control, and exercise more, to be successful and reach a realistic goal, but I am not disciplined nor patient enough to follow through for the necessary period of time to experience a reasonable and permanent weight loss.

So here's to the perfect low carb, low fat, sugar-free, high fiber reduced calorie meal -- a cereal box (not cereal, just the box) and a glass of water. Enjoy!

2004-04-21T05:44:00.000-07:00
'THERE IS A TIME TO EVERY SEASON UNDER HEAVEN'

Growing old is a bitch, but then again, it beats the alternative!

Fifty definitely isn't the fifty of past generations. With healthier living, exercise, and of course, plastic surgery, most people look 10 years younger than their predecessors. But no matter how one tries, one can only forestall the inevitable.

It is a good thing to eat healthy, exercise, and utilize the medical profession for preventative health screenings, and if so inclined, to go to surgical means to keep the illusion of youth. Afterall, people have been coloring their hair for years, and although a more drastic approach, botox, face lifts, hair transplants, and liposuction are just extreme methods of extending the youth-illusion process. Currently these procedures have gained much favor in today's youth-conscious society.

However, there are those who have taken this process to the ultimate level. Although their face is their fortune, some celebrities are becoming members of the Michael Jackson Freak Society and hardly resemble themselves as they once were -- rather looking more like waxed rejects from Madame Tussauds.

To those celebrities I say ...

Get real people, enough already! Know when to stop while you're ahead of the game. The bones, organs and body are still 50. So no matter what you do, (or who you sleep with) it's wise to remember your body has endured 50+ years of use, -- years of smoking, drinking, exposure to sun and just damn living, which have taken their toll. -- You're still 50! You have not stopped the passing of time with your efforts -- remember it's only an illusion.

Personally, I'd rather be a surprising, well-preserved 50, than a superficially-engineered one. (But then again, I have exceptionally good genes in my favor.)

My thought for today ...

Face it folks, 50 is 50! So enjoy it, before you become 60!

2004-04-20T03:45:00.000-07:00
AND THE BEAT GOES ON ...

Yesterday's post spoke of my employment situation and status. My company happens to be in dire straights, heading off to potential bankruptcy. Poor business decisions and bad management from top levels as well as over-the-top perks for the privileged, brought a mighty company to it's knees.

Former executives deserted the sinking ship, with generous contract buyouts and their Mercedes as a parting gift, while the rest of the workforce was downsized dramatically. Benefits were cut, accumulated sick days lost, wages frozen. The only thing increased was the workload for those remaining.

Out of the murk and mire arose the new ruling class. Mercedes, Lexus, BMWs still grace the executive lot. The arrogance and rudeness of those now in power almost exceeds that of their predecessors. However, one redeeming factor has been added to the mix that makes it all worthwhile. That is ... The Sarbanes-Oxley Act. Under the law, those signing and attesting to financial information for the company are now held personally liable for the validity of their reports. Also, under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, any person who "interferes with" the employment or livelihood of an employee for providing any truthful information can be sued or imprisoned.

So although the money still stuffs the pockets of the designer suits of the mighty few, underneath that cool exterior form beads of sweat when financials are issued and SEC filings are made.

2004-04-19T06:40:00.000-07:00
LOOK AT ME – I’M INVISIBLE

In most situations, no matter where one is or what one does, I’ve found there are always two categories of people -- the visible and the invisible.

Working in a traditionally male-dominated industry, I am one of the invisible. I am not a player; that is neither upper to mid-management, but merely part of administrative/executive support force. Also, putting me even lower on the scale of visibility are my age and appearance, so only my young, thin, mini-skirted colleagues get any notice at all.

However, not being visible has its advantages. Invisibility provides me the opportunity to observe the behavior of my superiors as surely as I blend into the nondescript landscapes hanging on the walls, and the verdant, silk-leafed fichus plants hugging nearly every corner and doorway.

So be warned, ye mighty captains of industry – big sister is watching. To be continued...

2004-04-18T09:12:00.000-07:00
Goomba-Italiano

I received this fun e-mail recently, and thanks to it's anonymous author, I fondly recall most of these words, which were an integral part my home schooling in the Italian vernacular of my familia's vocabulary:

"Let's start at the beginning.

Come stai? Molto bene. Bon giorno. Ciao. Arrivederci. Every Italian from
Italy knows these words and every Italian-American should.

But what about the goomba speech pattern? Those words and phrases that are a little Italian, a little American, and a little slang. Words every paesano
and bacciagaloop has heard,-words we hear on The Sopranos and throughout our Little Italy neighborhoods of New York and New Jersey.

This form of language, the "Goomba-Italiano" has been used for generations.

It's not gangster slang terms like "whack" or "vig", if that's what you are
thinking---nope, this is real guido tawk!

The goomba says ciao when he arrives or leaves. He says Madonna Mia anytime emotion is needed in any given situation. Mannaggia, meengya, oofah, and of course, va fongool can also be used. Capeesh?

He uses a mopeen to wipe his hands in the cuchina, gets agita from the gravy (SAUCE to the NJ gang) and will shkeeve meatballs unless they are homemade from the famiglia. Always foonah your bread in the pot of gravy (sauce) or
you will be considered a real coo-gootz or a mezzo-finookio.

There are usually plenty of mamalukes and the girl from the neighborhood
with the reputation is a facia-bruta, puttana, or a schifosa whooer.

If you are called cattivo, cabbadost, sfatcheem, stupido, or strunz, you are
usually a pain in the ass. A crazy diavlo can give you the malokya (evil
eye), but that red horn (contra malokya) will protect you if you Use it
right. Don't forget to always say per favore, grazia and prego.

If you are feeling mooshadda, stoonad or mezzo-morto, always head to Nonna's
and she will fix you up with a little homemade manicott', cavadell', or
calamar', or some ricotta cheesecake. Mangia some zeppoles, canollis,
torrone, struffoli, shfoolyadell', pignoli cookies, or a little nutella on
pannetone.

Delizioso! I think I will fix myself a sangweech of cabagol' with some
proshoot and mozarell' or maybe just a hot slice of peetza. So salud' if you
have any Italian blood in you and if you understood anything written here.
If so, you are numero uno and a professore of the goombas.

If you don't get any of this, then fa Nabola with the whole thing and you are a disgraziato. Scuzi, me dispiachay, I didn't mean that.

Just fugheddaboudit!"

2004-04-16T07:22:00.000-07:00
PEOPLE MATCH

Some say people choose dogs that physically resemble them. Others think pets reflect some aspect of the character or personality of their masters. But, what about vehicles matching their drivers? Even considering the finances available, people still have choices within the confines of their budgets; thus there is some element of matching owners to their vehicles. Some of the messages are very clear, at least to me.

What brought this on... Well, this morning while driving to work, which is only a nine-mile drive, I happened to see two (not one, but two) of the biggest monstrosities on the road today, and will probably see more in the coming months -- since the manufacturer is making a less expensive model to mass market to the status-conscious lemmings of society. Make way SUVs for the ...

HUMMERS ... - Gas guzzling, ugly vehicles generally available in the most putrid of colors, just demanding attention --

The message: "Look at me! I can afford this outrageous vehicle, which is impractical in most cities and suburbs of the country, but I want to boldly taut my financial status in your face as an egotistical, pretentious, and [most likely],sexual inadequate male."

In other words "Here I am, a middle-aged, balding, financially successful male fighting the losing battle of time, trying to be what I am no longer or never was --young, good looking and secure."

What about a female Hummer owner?... Probably a substitution for a third appendage missing on the lower torso, and I don't mean a tail!

These vehicles are just bad for the ecology ...

My advice, sell the Hummer, and spend the extra cash on transplants, (hair or other), Viagra and donations to 'Save the Rain Forests' -- because,

"HUMMERS ARE BUMMERS!" BUY A HYBRID!!!

2004-04-15T08:27:00.000-07:00
Why would anyone want to read the rants and raves of an aging, over-the-hill baby boomer? Why??? Well, maybe no one does, but it doesn't matter. This gal may have something of value to say or she may not, but she still is current enough to update her status to "boomster" and, hopefully, will give an interesting perception on the current generation, society and world in which she lives.

Case in point -- Don't you just loathe anyone who refers to her/himself
in the third person?

For my first post, I'll give just a bit of a bio background... Born and raised on the wrong side of the Hudson -- at least back then -- now trendy and hip -- Hoboken/Jersey City/Weehawken just a quick ride by Ferry or the Path to Manhattan for the up-and-coming professional ... aka: Sex and the City once removed.

I digress. Back to the bio...

First job: Took a bite of the Apple.
Music of the Day: Dylan, Biaz, the Beatles, Stones, and Jefferson Airplane.
Experiences: Broadway, The Village, Central Park, uptown/downtown concerts, museums, San Gennaro fest.
Influences: JFK, Vietnam, hippies, free love, changing the world.
My Generation: basking in idealism, altruism, dreams of the future ... Hokey huh!

Enough of the past. Enough for a first post. This is just the appetizer, not the whole meal.

Bye for now, hyperspace, until we meet again... I leave now with one thought ...

Major players of my generation are primarily responsible for the society we live in today. Idealism? Altruism? Somehow yesterday's dreams dissolved into today's nightmares.