I was interviewed as part of a story on tourist attractions in Indiana. No, I'm not the tourist attraction, but my place of employment is a nationally recognized research destination. The reporter was phenomenal and had me relaxed before the camera began to roll. I am so conscious of the camera that I can never forget I'm being recorded. My fifteen minute interview was edited into a one sentence video clip, but I'm sure that had something to do with limited time allowed.
If the video doesn't play, try the following link.
Showing posts with label tv. Show all posts
Showing posts with label tv. Show all posts
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Let the Madness Begin
Day 3, Sunday
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Between my coughing and Bartle's itch issues, I didn't sleep well, so I allowed myself another late morning. Much more of this dysfunctional sleep routine and I'll be in trouble. With all the warm weather, allergy season has started early and unfortunately for Bartle, this is rough. His ears are usually the first sign that his allergies are flaring up. He begins to scratch them insistently. Having a cone on his head prevents him access to his ears, so he scratches the cone trying to get to the itch then becomes so upset that he tries to push the cone over his own head. So for the majority of the night, I listened to his nails scratching the cone. Then I would get up and scratch his ears until he calmed. This was not as easy as it sounds as I'm confused in the middle of the night and he is upset and fidgety and I'm trying to scratch an area near his swelling without touching his bruising. We have Benadryl for him, but I was unsure of mixing it with his painkillers, anti-inflammatory, and joint medication. I know, my dog takes more meds than me right now. So I felt a bit shaky while getting ready for work and suddenly realized it had been an hour and forty minutes. This was not a good sign as this meant I was unaware of losing time.
11:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Drove into work and wrote up my blog post before beginning the day. Today marked the beginning of our March Madness programming. I worked with John all day which was fun. We have this interesting rapport and comfort level. I managed to cram a lot of stuff into my first hour before meeting with Kris, who was our speaker for the day. Kris and I met in Salt Lake City and sat next to each other on a return flight a few years ago. During the flight we discovered we had a lot in common, such as a love of genealogy, lecturing, travel, food, being rabid college football fans, and we both have spouses who are in the same professional field as us, which can be complicated. So I was quite pleased to introduce him for his lecture on Polish research. We had a moment before the session when my boss snuck in the back. Kris asked, if I knew Curt was planning to be there. I responded, no that he had an outside appointment today. Kris said, then he must be checking up on you, which I replied, maybe he is checking on you. This byplay has to do with the fact that a position might be coming open in my department in the coming year and there are many people interested in the job, including me. The lecture had a good crowd and Kris was phenomenal as expected. We parted with plans to try different levels of chili at the NGS Conference in May. Did I mention we both love food? The rest of the work shift was uneventful.
4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. I went home and talked to mom and dad during separate calls. Dad was at the airport so I couldn't clarify some things he said, but he did share that he had made copies of their birth and marriage certificates for my UDC application. Yay! I was a bit confused to hear my grandmother "had essentially gone off the rails and was being hospitalized." I don't know if this means she is in a hospital or an institution. She has suffered from dementia for years, but I pointed out to hubby that I thought she was a bit off for decades. Fed, medicated, cleaned, and walked Bartle.
6:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. Becky came over for our weekly t.v. viewing. We caught up on The Vampire Diaries and Once Upon a Time. Bartle was ecstatic at having his gal pal around. Instead of acting all whiny and pathetic, he was overly hyper. I was still a bit concerned because he is only eating about a quarter of his normal food intake, but based on his energy level around Becky, I think he'll be fine. Talked to hubby before medicating and cleaning Bartle's wound. Completed an hour of prayer and Bible reading, which I do every Sunday. And then I couldn't sleep. This was what I was afraid would happen. I'm now in one of those cycles where my body is exhausted yet I can't shut down the mental chaos in my head.
9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Between my coughing and Bartle's itch issues, I didn't sleep well, so I allowed myself another late morning. Much more of this dysfunctional sleep routine and I'll be in trouble. With all the warm weather, allergy season has started early and unfortunately for Bartle, this is rough. His ears are usually the first sign that his allergies are flaring up. He begins to scratch them insistently. Having a cone on his head prevents him access to his ears, so he scratches the cone trying to get to the itch then becomes so upset that he tries to push the cone over his own head. So for the majority of the night, I listened to his nails scratching the cone. Then I would get up and scratch his ears until he calmed. This was not as easy as it sounds as I'm confused in the middle of the night and he is upset and fidgety and I'm trying to scratch an area near his swelling without touching his bruising. We have Benadryl for him, but I was unsure of mixing it with his painkillers, anti-inflammatory, and joint medication. I know, my dog takes more meds than me right now. So I felt a bit shaky while getting ready for work and suddenly realized it had been an hour and forty minutes. This was not a good sign as this meant I was unaware of losing time.
11:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Drove into work and wrote up my blog post before beginning the day. Today marked the beginning of our March Madness programming. I worked with John all day which was fun. We have this interesting rapport and comfort level. I managed to cram a lot of stuff into my first hour before meeting with Kris, who was our speaker for the day. Kris and I met in Salt Lake City and sat next to each other on a return flight a few years ago. During the flight we discovered we had a lot in common, such as a love of genealogy, lecturing, travel, food, being rabid college football fans, and we both have spouses who are in the same professional field as us, which can be complicated. So I was quite pleased to introduce him for his lecture on Polish research. We had a moment before the session when my boss snuck in the back. Kris asked, if I knew Curt was planning to be there. I responded, no that he had an outside appointment today. Kris said, then he must be checking up on you, which I replied, maybe he is checking on you. This byplay has to do with the fact that a position might be coming open in my department in the coming year and there are many people interested in the job, including me. The lecture had a good crowd and Kris was phenomenal as expected. We parted with plans to try different levels of chili at the NGS Conference in May. Did I mention we both love food? The rest of the work shift was uneventful.
4:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m. I went home and talked to mom and dad during separate calls. Dad was at the airport so I couldn't clarify some things he said, but he did share that he had made copies of their birth and marriage certificates for my UDC application. Yay! I was a bit confused to hear my grandmother "had essentially gone off the rails and was being hospitalized." I don't know if this means she is in a hospital or an institution. She has suffered from dementia for years, but I pointed out to hubby that I thought she was a bit off for decades. Fed, medicated, cleaned, and walked Bartle.
6:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. Becky came over for our weekly t.v. viewing. We caught up on The Vampire Diaries and Once Upon a Time. Bartle was ecstatic at having his gal pal around. Instead of acting all whiny and pathetic, he was overly hyper. I was still a bit concerned because he is only eating about a quarter of his normal food intake, but based on his energy level around Becky, I think he'll be fine. Talked to hubby before medicating and cleaning Bartle's wound. Completed an hour of prayer and Bible reading, which I do every Sunday. And then I couldn't sleep. This was what I was afraid would happen. I'm now in one of those cycles where my body is exhausted yet I can't shut down the mental chaos in my head.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Six Degrees of Television
This blog has documented my love of sci-fi/ fantasy television viewing. I do watch other shows but they are not the staples of my weekly viewing. At this time, I DVR four shows because I am truly die-hard and the other shows can wait for Netflix. This is all to say, I watch a lot of shows, but not necessarily in a timely fashion. I enjoy noting actors transition between shows, hence the six degrees. Becky is my favorite viewing buddy because she is as bad as I am. We both have spotted Nicholas Lea on Once Upon a Time and V (which was running in the background one night). As soon as we recognized him, we both yelled out Krycek, which was his character on the X-Files. Though Mitch Pileggi has appeared regularly on SG-Atlantis, Supernatural, and Sons of Anarchy, he will always be Skinner from the X-Files to me.
There have been nods through the years to the six degrees phenomenon. On Lost, Daniel Faraday wanted the characters to detonate a bomb in the past in order to alter the current timeline (don't ask). So imagine my glee when watching another JJ Abrams show, Fringe, in which Peter is in the wrong universe/ timeline and someone mentions a Faraday harness. The best nod though was on Castle, when Nathan Fillion dressed up as space cowboy, Capt. Malcolm Reynolds, his character from Firefly.
So I was a bit disappointed to see one of my favorite recurring actors who appears on multiple shows I watch, Mark Pellegrino, being typecast. He appeared on Lost as Jacob, a vague Yoda-like character impacting everyone's lives, leading them to their destiny. Initially, Hurley was one of the few characters who could see him and considering Hurley's past experience with mental institutions, we had to question if Jacob only resided in his head. He was a calm peaceful man, except for that time he killed his brother and set off the chain of events which led to Flight 815 crashing on the island.
He also played Lucifer, yes the devil, on Supernatural. He managed to make Lucifer sympathetic and lonely. I loved him as this character. Recently, Pellegrino has returned to the show reprising his role as a trapped Lucifer who is taunting the character Sam, except it is all a delusion (we hope). I have to say he is truly diabolical in his most recent scenes on Supernatural. Last year, Pellegrino played Bishop, a vampire overlord, on Being Human. His character was killed at the end of last season, so I was pleasantly surprised to see him in a recent episode, except he was a delusion in Aidan's mind, taunting him to kill.
So I love playing six degrees with actors on television, but please don't typecast them. Come up with new material!
There have been nods through the years to the six degrees phenomenon. On Lost, Daniel Faraday wanted the characters to detonate a bomb in the past in order to alter the current timeline (don't ask). So imagine my glee when watching another JJ Abrams show, Fringe, in which Peter is in the wrong universe/ timeline and someone mentions a Faraday harness. The best nod though was on Castle, when Nathan Fillion dressed up as space cowboy, Capt. Malcolm Reynolds, his character from Firefly.
So I was a bit disappointed to see one of my favorite recurring actors who appears on multiple shows I watch, Mark Pellegrino, being typecast. He appeared on Lost as Jacob, a vague Yoda-like character impacting everyone's lives, leading them to their destiny. Initially, Hurley was one of the few characters who could see him and considering Hurley's past experience with mental institutions, we had to question if Jacob only resided in his head. He was a calm peaceful man, except for that time he killed his brother and set off the chain of events which led to Flight 815 crashing on the island.
He also played Lucifer, yes the devil, on Supernatural. He managed to make Lucifer sympathetic and lonely. I loved him as this character. Recently, Pellegrino has returned to the show reprising his role as a trapped Lucifer who is taunting the character Sam, except it is all a delusion (we hope). I have to say he is truly diabolical in his most recent scenes on Supernatural. Last year, Pellegrino played Bishop, a vampire overlord, on Being Human. His character was killed at the end of last season, so I was pleasantly surprised to see him in a recent episode, except he was a delusion in Aidan's mind, taunting him to kill.
So I love playing six degrees with actors on television, but please don't typecast them. Come up with new material!
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Serendipitous Read
Over this weekend, I read an inspirational book that was written back in 2009, but I just discovered last week. Becky had recommended a blog that was written about a woman's healing journey following a broken engagement. The blog sometimes features other blog authors, one of whom writes about relationships and writing. So through this long circuitous route, I was reading this writer's blog entry concerning the holidays. He mentioned reading a book, Life's That Way, by one of his former clients. He wrote about sobbing while reading this beautiful and inspirational story by an actor he used to work for out in Hollywood. At the end of his post, he named the actor, Jim Beaver, in which I did a double take. Hubby and I are huge fans of the show, Supernatural. It is one of the few shows we watch together and hubby is willing to watch repeat episodes. Watching Jim Beaver on this show has made me cry and now his story made me sob.
I highly recommend this story for anyone who has lost a loved one as it truly is uplifting, but not in a get-in-touch with your feelings type of way. After his wife was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer, Jim began writing daily emails to friends and family to keep them informed of the situation. He maintained this email trail for a year, where he was very open and honest about the journey of loving and surviving a loved one as well as raising a young autistic child during this harrowing experience. What touched me was the love that shines through in these emails, it speaks to each of us. This read was difficult for me since I envisioned our own experience with losing my mother-in-law to leukemia, yet I could relate to so many of the things he said. His story also makes one appreciate your loved ones. A truly beautiful book that I thought I would share.
I highly recommend this story for anyone who has lost a loved one as it truly is uplifting, but not in a get-in-touch with your feelings type of way. After his wife was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer, Jim began writing daily emails to friends and family to keep them informed of the situation. He maintained this email trail for a year, where he was very open and honest about the journey of loving and surviving a loved one as well as raising a young autistic child during this harrowing experience. What touched me was the love that shines through in these emails, it speaks to each of us. This read was difficult for me since I envisioned our own experience with losing my mother-in-law to leukemia, yet I could relate to so many of the things he said. His story also makes one appreciate your loved ones. A truly beautiful book that I thought I would share.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Wear Out Their Welcome
It is a two fold post today that also reflects my nerdiness. Becky and I were leaving the other day when ta-da, the new Charlaine Harris book, Dead Reckoning, loomed on the Express rack. Though we're both on the holds list, we grabbed a copy to check out, as we both wanted to read the latest excitement in Sookie Stackhouse's life. I finished my copy in two days, but this doesn't mean I enjoyed the book.
Here's my review of the book:
Better than the last book, which isn't saying much. I think the series is dying from longevity. The fae story is weird and rather uncomfortable to read. Eric has gone from rallying hero to possessive jerk. And we're back full circle to cheering on Bill, though Eric had a few brief moments of being our sick sadistic hero. And all the humor in the series has died.
Harsh words for a series I truly enjoy, but I think the series has run its course. Enough already! Don't ruin the series by riding the money train because the tv show is doing so well.
Many tv series have the same problem. They wear out their welcome. They don't end on a high note like they should. I have plans with my tv this weekend with one of these shows which is finally ending, though I think it found steam towards the end. (I'll write about this next week.) As I went through my DVD collection, I realized many shows have their best seasons between the 2nd and 3rd year then tread water the rest of the series, sometimes to the detriment of the show's integrity. That lead me to another thought. Are you familiar with any shows that have hurdled over the three year mark? That you can honestly say a season past the 3rd year was the best season. I actually can answer that one. I'm currently watching Supernatural, which I feel is a phenomenal show. Its 4th season was the best, but it's current season is going strong.
So do you have any shows you think should have ended early, rather than continuing on? Or any book series that has overstayed its welcome? Or any tv shows that you feel overcame the 3rd year hump? Please share. I'm always looking for another book or tv series.
Here's my review of the book:
Better than the last book, which isn't saying much. I think the series is dying from longevity. The fae story is weird and rather uncomfortable to read. Eric has gone from rallying hero to possessive jerk. And we're back full circle to cheering on Bill, though Eric had a few brief moments of being our sick sadistic hero. And all the humor in the series has died.
Harsh words for a series I truly enjoy, but I think the series has run its course. Enough already! Don't ruin the series by riding the money train because the tv show is doing so well.
Many tv series have the same problem. They wear out their welcome. They don't end on a high note like they should. I have plans with my tv this weekend with one of these shows which is finally ending, though I think it found steam towards the end. (I'll write about this next week.) As I went through my DVD collection, I realized many shows have their best seasons between the 2nd and 3rd year then tread water the rest of the series, sometimes to the detriment of the show's integrity. That lead me to another thought. Are you familiar with any shows that have hurdled over the three year mark? That you can honestly say a season past the 3rd year was the best season. I actually can answer that one. I'm currently watching Supernatural, which I feel is a phenomenal show. Its 4th season was the best, but it's current season is going strong.
So do you have any shows you think should have ended early, rather than continuing on? Or any book series that has overstayed its welcome? Or any tv shows that you feel overcame the 3rd year hump? Please share. I'm always looking for another book or tv series.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Fringe
Okay, I have many guilty pleasures, but this one I've kept quiet for a while. Now there is talk of canceling the show, I have to voice my strong opinion. If you enjoyed X-Files then you should be watching Fringe, which was created by the brilliant mind, J.J. Abrams, of Lost fame. The show is sci-fi based with a dual universe concept. The other universe has declared war on us and has caused mutant and unexplainable phenomenons. A special team works together to solve the various deathly situations. The show is in its third season and couldn't be better. The dynamic that has grown between the main characters is touching and yes, there is a romance, but there is also a story of a father seeking his son's forgiveness. To hype the show, Fox has created an amazing trailer for this week's pivotal Thursday episode. I'd recommend checking the show out.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Geeks 'r Us
As usual, Becky and I were engrossed in Lost the other night. We find ourselves completely mesmerized by this season. After the show, as we discussed the wonders of the Desmond reveal, V was playing in the background. I admit I've been watching V cause I have fond memories of the original show from the 80s. An actor was on the screen who looked vaguely familiar, but I couldn't place him, when Becky said, Krycek. The light bulb went off, of course, the X-files. Yes, I am a geek that I can recognize a sci-fi character that quickly and am pleased that I surround myself with others of like-mind
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Oooo, I've Been There
Since I've been laid up for a few days, I've had plenty of time in front of the tv and I've noticed a strange phenomenon. While watching a movie or tv show, I'm recognizing the localities. While watching Bride Wars, I perked up realizing in one pivotal scene, they are standing in front of the 72nd St. Subway Station which is very familiar to me from my visit to NY. While watching Prison Break, I recognize many cityscapes from Chicago. I've even found myself checking the background when a window appears in a scene. Charmed features many scenes from San Francisco. I find myself thinking, I've been there and there and there when watching. Do you recognize places you have visited when watching tv or movies? Care to share.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Preparing for the End of Lost
Have you seen the new promo for Lost? Try examining it. It's fascinating.
In preparation of the end of the series that has held me engrossed since Episode 1, I rewatched the previous 5 seasons. Yes, do the math, but it was worth it. Going back, you witness all the clues that were available since the beginning. How these masterminds kept track of all the little details is mind blowing.
I thought Season 1 ended with a shock until the introduction of Benjamin Linus, who has to be the most evil character on tv. The way he said "so" when asked by Locke about killing all those innocent people. Creepy! In Season 2, the tailies were frustrating until the big betrayal. I saw it coming, but it was mesmerizing to watch, just like Ben's killing of one our beloved characters. Season 3 waned for a bit, but the finale was the best season cliffhanger ever. I mean it turned everything on it's head. Season 4-5 are so well plotted that every episode left you shocked and wanting more.
Great quotes:
Sawyer: "Baby, I am tied to a tree in the jungle of mystery. I just got tortured by a damn spinal surgeon and a genuine Iraqi. Of course I'm serious."
Tom: "This is not your island. This is our island."
Hurley: "Maybe if you ate more comfort food you wouldn't have to go around shooting people".
Lapidus: "So Sayid was a diplomat in Iraq?"
Jack: "No, a torturer."
Jack: "We have to go back."
Desmond: "See ya in another life brother."
Ben: "You're mine. I'll give you time alone [with the body]." (Still gives me the chills)
With all the themes on the show, I am curious if anyone else noticed the bad parent theme. Jack, Claire, and Ben's dads are alcoholics. Sun, Sawyer, and Penny's dads are murderers. Jin's mom is a prostitute. Hurley's dad abandoned him. Sayid's father was a bully. Kate's mother loved her abuser more. Faraday's mother sent him to his death.
So I have to ask, which death upset or shocked you the most? Boone, Shannon, Anna Lucia, Libby, Juliet, Mr. Echo, Locke, Faraday, Charlotte, Charlie (the episode "Greatest Hits" still makes me cry like a baby), the list can go on.
Which couple is your favorite cause Lost is a love story? Kate/ Jack, Jack/ Juliet, Sawyer/ Juliet, Kate/ Sawyer (still get my vote), Penny/ Desmond (love them as well), Jin/ Sun, Bernard/ Rose, Charlie/ Claire, Hurley/ Libby, once again the list can go on.
For those who have never watched the show...go out and start watching the DVDs. It is amazing television. So let me know who you vote for in the above categories or if you have a great quote. Otherwise, we'll talk again on 2/2 after Lost premieres.
In preparation of the end of the series that has held me engrossed since Episode 1, I rewatched the previous 5 seasons. Yes, do the math, but it was worth it. Going back, you witness all the clues that were available since the beginning. How these masterminds kept track of all the little details is mind blowing.
I thought Season 1 ended with a shock until the introduction of Benjamin Linus, who has to be the most evil character on tv. The way he said "so" when asked by Locke about killing all those innocent people. Creepy! In Season 2, the tailies were frustrating until the big betrayal. I saw it coming, but it was mesmerizing to watch, just like Ben's killing of one our beloved characters. Season 3 waned for a bit, but the finale was the best season cliffhanger ever. I mean it turned everything on it's head. Season 4-5 are so well plotted that every episode left you shocked and wanting more.
Great quotes:
Sawyer: "Baby, I am tied to a tree in the jungle of mystery. I just got tortured by a damn spinal surgeon and a genuine Iraqi. Of course I'm serious."
Tom: "This is not your island. This is our island."
Hurley: "Maybe if you ate more comfort food you wouldn't have to go around shooting people".
Lapidus: "So Sayid was a diplomat in Iraq?"
Jack: "No, a torturer."
Jack: "We have to go back."
Desmond: "See ya in another life brother."
Ben: "You're mine. I'll give you time alone [with the body]." (Still gives me the chills)
With all the themes on the show, I am curious if anyone else noticed the bad parent theme. Jack, Claire, and Ben's dads are alcoholics. Sun, Sawyer, and Penny's dads are murderers. Jin's mom is a prostitute. Hurley's dad abandoned him. Sayid's father was a bully. Kate's mother loved her abuser more. Faraday's mother sent him to his death.
So I have to ask, which death upset or shocked you the most? Boone, Shannon, Anna Lucia, Libby, Juliet, Mr. Echo, Locke, Faraday, Charlotte, Charlie (the episode "Greatest Hits" still makes me cry like a baby), the list can go on.
Which couple is your favorite cause Lost is a love story? Kate/ Jack, Jack/ Juliet, Sawyer/ Juliet, Kate/ Sawyer (still get my vote), Penny/ Desmond (love them as well), Jin/ Sun, Bernard/ Rose, Charlie/ Claire, Hurley/ Libby, once again the list can go on.
For those who have never watched the show...go out and start watching the DVDs. It is amazing television. So let me know who you vote for in the above categories or if you have a great quote. Otherwise, we'll talk again on 2/2 after Lost premieres.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Geekdom
In the course of a chat the other day, someone asked me what shows I watch regularly. I realized as I started to list them that I am an absolute geek.
My regular viewing habits are:
NCIS (LJG is a real man, and I love the play between the characters)
V (can't wait for it to begin)
Lost (counting down to January)
Vampire Diaries (continuing the obsession)
Flash Forward (The story has me hooked)
Bones (David B, nothing more needs to be said)
Fringe (love JJ Abrams work, except I'm upset about the death of a main character)
Smallville (I've watched since the 1st ep, it gets better each season)
Dollhouse (I bow to Joss Whedon and his genius, plus Tahmoh Penikett from BSG)
So tell me if you watch any of these shows, maybe we can start a dialogue. Or share your guilty pleasures.
My regular viewing habits are:
NCIS (LJG is a real man, and I love the play between the characters)
V (can't wait for it to begin)
Lost (counting down to January)
Vampire Diaries (continuing the obsession)
Flash Forward (The story has me hooked)
Bones (David B, nothing more needs to be said)
Fringe (love JJ Abrams work, except I'm upset about the death of a main character)
Smallville (I've watched since the 1st ep, it gets better each season)
Dollhouse (I bow to Joss Whedon and his genius, plus Tahmoh Penikett from BSG)
So tell me if you watch any of these shows, maybe we can start a dialogue. Or share your guilty pleasures.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Random Thoughts
Just some random thoughts on recent events in everyday life.
My hubby loves to make fun of my holiday obsession though he adds to it. I have six boxes of decorations that we begin unpacking the day after Thanksgiving. He forgets he's the one who has bought me a large amount of the items I place around the house. This weekend he brought home the latest Snow Buddy for my collection. Isn't he sweet?
Another funny moment with the hubby included an old tv show I love. I am currently rewatching episodes via Netflix and hubby walked in and commented on why no one knew the character Cole was evil. I was so proud of him because a. he knew the character name and b. he knew the history of the character. I had to explain that I was watching the episode where the character was introduced, so we didn't know the history yet.
I find it humorous that Dawne, who I deem a very sensible person has become sucked into the Twilight phenom. I asked her to explain to me why she had to read 180 pages after working the night shift, why she couldn't put the book down? She can't explain.
Steve stopped me the other day to ask if I knew the SEC had signed a big deal with ESPN. I was not aware of the deal, so had to look into it. Basically it means more SEC football on ABC and ESPN. Woo-hoo, sort of! I don't subscribe to cable, so I'll only benefit if the games are on ABC. Can't wait for college football season.
Cheryl had sent a request via facebook for someone to join her for the U2 concert in Tampa. I debated it, but decided I couldn't fly down for a concert. Last week she informed me that Muse is the opening act. I am absolutely jealous and wished I had agreed to fly down. After looking to see if there were tickets left for the Chicago show, which there are, I was disappointed to discover Muse was not the opening act up here. I'll have to remain jealous of Cheryl.
My hubby loves to make fun of my holiday obsession though he adds to it. I have six boxes of decorations that we begin unpacking the day after Thanksgiving. He forgets he's the one who has bought me a large amount of the items I place around the house. This weekend he brought home the latest Snow Buddy for my collection. Isn't he sweet?
(image courtesy of Hallmark.com)
Another funny moment with the hubby included an old tv show I love. I am currently rewatching episodes via Netflix and hubby walked in and commented on why no one knew the character Cole was evil. I was so proud of him because a. he knew the character name and b. he knew the history of the character. I had to explain that I was watching the episode where the character was introduced, so we didn't know the history yet.
I find it humorous that Dawne, who I deem a very sensible person has become sucked into the Twilight phenom. I asked her to explain to me why she had to read 180 pages after working the night shift, why she couldn't put the book down? She can't explain.
Steve stopped me the other day to ask if I knew the SEC had signed a big deal with ESPN. I was not aware of the deal, so had to look into it. Basically it means more SEC football on ABC and ESPN. Woo-hoo, sort of! I don't subscribe to cable, so I'll only benefit if the games are on ABC. Can't wait for college football season.
Cheryl had sent a request via facebook for someone to join her for the U2 concert in Tampa. I debated it, but decided I couldn't fly down for a concert. Last week she informed me that Muse is the opening act. I am absolutely jealous and wished I had agreed to fly down. After looking to see if there were tickets left for the Chicago show, which there are, I was disappointed to discover Muse was not the opening act up here. I'll have to remain jealous of Cheryl.
Monday, June 1, 2009
True Blood
I went and did it...I discovered another obsession. Most of us have been reading the Sookie Stackhouse series and are aware that HBO created a tv series based on the books. Kelly told me I had to watch the show. Colette bought the series. Erin ordered it. Being a librarian, I read the reviews and decided to keep my distance. Netflix delivered the first four episodes to me on Thursday. I stayed up late watching them because I was so engrossed. I have to qualify, a great many changes were done to various characters and their stories for the purposes of "good tv", but the heart is still there.
Actually that was one of the first things to strike me. Sookie actually emits more emotion in the show than in the books. She has true reactions expected of her situation. Even Bill is more personable. Most of you know I have been a Bill-hater until recently in the book series, but watching Bill on-screen, I can finally understand the appeal of the character. I'll admit I began sighing every time Stephen Moyer came on screen as Vampire Bill.
After reading the reviews, I was positive I would hate Tara and the fact that they have her in a relationship with Sam, but the story felt right. I won't deny the scenes involving my least favorite character, Jason, leave much to be desired. I began debating fast forwarding through his scenes because I know he's a male slut, but it was a little too graphic for my taste. Lafayette is truly enjoyable and more vivacious on-screen though we know how he ends.
Alan Ball, who created the show has read the books and is friendly with Charlaine Harris. He expands on the stories we peripherally hear about from Sookie, since the books are from her point of view, but he has much respect for the storyline from the books. The big revelation of Bill's motivation that is revealed in Book 6 is hinted at throughout the story and Ball says he will stay true to Sookie's storyline.
Overall a great tv series. I'll even go further and admit, I couldn't wait for Netflix to send me my next discs and bought the set on Friday. I know, yet another obsession. I have to ask, what is it with vampires? What was your opinion of the show? Did it do the books justice?
Monday, May 11, 2009
Great Entertainment Weekend
My weekend was very relaxing and included some great tv and movies that I had to share. Before I begin, I must qualify by explaining I am a complete geek. My weekend entertainment included two greats, Joss Whedon and JJ Abrams.
I began by watching the 2nd to last episode of Lost for this season. It was phenomonal. If you are not a Lost fan, all I can say is you are missing out on great tv. Catch up so you can watch the final season next year. I'm upset I'll be missing the final episode this week, but it is the first thing on my list when I return from the conference.
This was followed by watching Dollhouse. I beg and plead with Fox executives to please keep this show on the air. Please don't throw it away like you did Firefly (another fantastic Whedon production). If you enjoy actors from the Whedon verse, you'll see them pop up on this great show. I won't deny the first few episodes annoyed me, but there were hints. My hubby came out of the other room because I was so vocal in my reactions to the season finale. Sorry, I didn't see that twist coming. Freak'n good tv!
We ended our weekend with Star Trek. Everything you love about Lost: heroic death scenes, crescendo music (Abrams likes using orchestras), "easter eggs" for die hard fans, humorous moments, character development, great storytelling, revealing twists. I could go on. I think Abrams did a fantastic job with this movie, which features two great actors, Zachary Quinto (Heroes) and Karl Urban (LOTR). It is one of the better movies I've seen in a long time.
Boy, if that doesn't reveal what a geek I can be. Take a look at these shows and movies. Comment on what you thought.
I began by watching the 2nd to last episode of Lost for this season. It was phenomonal. If you are not a Lost fan, all I can say is you are missing out on great tv. Catch up so you can watch the final season next year. I'm upset I'll be missing the final episode this week, but it is the first thing on my list when I return from the conference.
This was followed by watching Dollhouse. I beg and plead with Fox executives to please keep this show on the air. Please don't throw it away like you did Firefly (another fantastic Whedon production). If you enjoy actors from the Whedon verse, you'll see them pop up on this great show. I won't deny the first few episodes annoyed me, but there were hints. My hubby came out of the other room because I was so vocal in my reactions to the season finale. Sorry, I didn't see that twist coming. Freak'n good tv!
We ended our weekend with Star Trek. Everything you love about Lost: heroic death scenes, crescendo music (Abrams likes using orchestras), "easter eggs" for die hard fans, humorous moments, character development, great storytelling, revealing twists. I could go on. I think Abrams did a fantastic job with this movie, which features two great actors, Zachary Quinto (Heroes) and Karl Urban (LOTR). It is one of the better movies I've seen in a long time.
Boy, if that doesn't reveal what a geek I can be. Take a look at these shows and movies. Comment on what you thought.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Lost Fanatic
I can't stress how much I am loving this season of Lost. Becky and I have Lost night every week, which is followed by late night discussion and her posting theories to her blog. We have a Lost group who e-mails theories to each other on Thursday discussing the different angles and situations on the show. This season has been up and down, but it has kept me engrossed. Knowing that next season is the final season is hard since the recent two episodes have been so great. Crystal told me of a new site to try as a Lost fan. I found the site pretty funny. It doesn't dive into the theories, but it's hilarious for after viewing. So for all the Lost fans out there, give Lost Diary a try.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Digital Frustration
I know the new digital signals are supposed to improve our lives and make it better as our local television channels keep telling us. I just find the whole thing frustrating. Yes, I am one of those people who still have rabbit ear antennas. I refuse to pay for cable. I watch enough tv with my farmer five channels, thank you. I went ahead and bought a digital tv to replace my smaller television, so I have slightly adapted. We requested a coupon for a converter box for our main tv. We are on the waiting list and don't know when we'll get the box.
Congress delayed the conversion until June, but unfortunately our local tv is still changing over on Tues. My hubby and I went and bought a DVD recorder, so we can record shows off the smaller tv. Simple solution for the time, right? Wrong! The DVD recorder is so complicated that even my hubby and I after spending hours playing with it still can not record anything.
I'm glad to know digital is supposed to make things better because for me, it's just a joke. Anyone want to come over and hook up my tv? Or do you have the same issue?
Congress delayed the conversion until June, but unfortunately our local tv is still changing over on Tues. My hubby and I went and bought a DVD recorder, so we can record shows off the smaller tv. Simple solution for the time, right? Wrong! The DVD recorder is so complicated that even my hubby and I after spending hours playing with it still can not record anything.
I'm glad to know digital is supposed to make things better because for me, it's just a joke. Anyone want to come over and hook up my tv? Or do you have the same issue?
Monday, January 19, 2009
Addiction/ Obsession
In the last two months, I posted twice on my personal addictions or obsessions; one involved the Twilight series and another caffeine. My friend Michelle also has mentioned it in our various e-mails and phone calls. She also informed me that my three holiday gifts each had to do with one of my obsessions: Twilight, snowmen, and Gators.
Now that college football season is over until the fall, the holiday decorations are packed away until next November, and New Moon will be released next November; my obsessive tendencies should be over. For those who know me, this is not true. I have many others to focus on. This week brings the return of Lost.
I have watched Lost since the first episode and have not missed a single one over the last four years. Wednesday night ushers in the fifth season (2nd to last season) for the show who has a plan. Becky and I have our pizza night arranged to watch the premiere event. The e-mails have already started between Tammy and I concerning our theories and we have recently recruited Peggy into our insanity.
I am ready to begin the madness. Anyone else want to admit to their addictions/ obsessions, since I'm being open. Or we can discuss Lost.
Now that college football season is over until the fall, the holiday decorations are packed away until next November, and New Moon will be released next November; my obsessive tendencies should be over. For those who know me, this is not true. I have many others to focus on. This week brings the return of Lost.
I have watched Lost since the first episode and have not missed a single one over the last four years. Wednesday night ushers in the fifth season (2nd to last season) for the show who has a plan. Becky and I have our pizza night arranged to watch the premiere event. The e-mails have already started between Tammy and I concerning our theories and we have recently recruited Peggy into our insanity.
I am ready to begin the madness. Anyone else want to admit to their addictions/ obsessions, since I'm being open. Or we can discuss Lost.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
TV Season
I am a tv addict! I love watching television shows. Most of the items on my NetFlix account are shows, so I felt I should comment on this year's season.
The regular television networks are wrapping up this season. And what a season it has been. We started off strong. I had many new shows and old favorites to enjoy. Now that I am in my last week of regular programming, my list of shows to watch has shrunk considerably. Why is it every time you start to really like a show, they cancel it? Why do they wait to the last minute to cancel shows after the season finale has been filmed? This leads to many shows having an unfortunate ending.
This season has been frustrating. The writer's strike has caused many issues to arise. First we had to miss many of our shows for months. Secondly, the new shows that had strong followings at the beginning of the season never recuperated from the strike. Several of these shows were canceled since they could not maintain a following. Unfair to the new shows. How can they have a loyal fan base after a few months?
Third, some show writers made drastic decisions in their writing to make up for the missing episodes. One of the worst offenders of this were the writers of Bones. Fourth, we have to wait a really long time until we see what happens on some shows who decided to wrap during the strike. Hopefully they will maintain their following or suffer the unforgiving network chopping block.
So as I finish up my season with Lost this week, I debate whether I should try some new shows next year after the dismal season we've just experienced. Some of the shows I've really enjoyed are now gone and others have become quite disappointing.
Happy TV Viewing!
The regular television networks are wrapping up this season. And what a season it has been. We started off strong. I had many new shows and old favorites to enjoy. Now that I am in my last week of regular programming, my list of shows to watch has shrunk considerably. Why is it every time you start to really like a show, they cancel it? Why do they wait to the last minute to cancel shows after the season finale has been filmed? This leads to many shows having an unfortunate ending.
This season has been frustrating. The writer's strike has caused many issues to arise. First we had to miss many of our shows for months. Secondly, the new shows that had strong followings at the beginning of the season never recuperated from the strike. Several of these shows were canceled since they could not maintain a following. Unfair to the new shows. How can they have a loyal fan base after a few months?
Third, some show writers made drastic decisions in their writing to make up for the missing episodes. One of the worst offenders of this were the writers of Bones. Fourth, we have to wait a really long time until we see what happens on some shows who decided to wrap during the strike. Hopefully they will maintain their following or suffer the unforgiving network chopping block.
So as I finish up my season with Lost this week, I debate whether I should try some new shows next year after the dismal season we've just experienced. Some of the shows I've really enjoyed are now gone and others have become quite disappointing.
Happy TV Viewing!
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