Monday, October 13, 2008
Can We Just Get The Election Over With Already?
Anybody else tired of all the election crap? Yeah, I know, it's important, everyone should be informed and vote. Bleh. I'm just tired of it all. I've made up my mind, and I'm pretty sure anyone who hasn't made up their mind should probably not vote. Yeah, I know. Everyone deserves a voice, but come on. How can anyone still be undecided? I don't get it. And this one ceased being about the issues at least a week ago. Now it's about who's racist, who's negative, who hangs with the wrong crowd, etc. etc. I mean really, doesn't this feel more like an election for student council than to the most powerful position in the free world? He eats babies for breakfast ... he has cooties and picks his nose. I'm thinking this would be an improvement in the level of discourse.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Love, Honor and Obey a TV Show???
Side note: Have I really not written anything since June?!?! How sad is that? Wait, don't answer.
Anyways, I've been going through some DVDs of old television shows lately and got to thinking about my weird relationships with some shows. I have, for lack of a better term, an unusual sense of loyalty. For example, I wouldn't watch Alias when it first came on the air because it seemed like it would be unfaithful to Buffy. Hear me out. Buffy was THE kick-arse female hero of the era and along came this red-headed bimbo (remember, I didn't watch the show at this point and had only seen the commercials) who was on a real station and trying to act all bad-ass. She was obviously trying to steal Buffy's thunder and I just wasn't going to have it. So no way I'm watching Alias. Of course, I did eventually try the show after Buffy was off the air, bought all the DVDs and became almost as addicted to Alias -but that's beside the point. Then, when Buffy went off the air, I wouldn't watch Veronica Mars at first because, again, trying to rip off Buffy. After I got over that and became addicted to Veronica Mars, I wouldn't watch Lost because Lost was opposite Veronica and it seemed disloyal (no, I'm not a Neilson family, why do you ask?).
I always seem to develop this attachment to the shows I watch. I don't know why. It's not like the show "cares" whether I'm being faithful or even knows what faithful means. But still, I just can't bring myself to watch certain shows right away. The ironic thing is that the shows I won't watch usually end up being my favorites later - another case in point, Supernatural. It seemed like I was being unfaithful to Charmed (yeah, the show was campy, so what? It was still one of MY shows). Now, I have the same unhealthy dedication to Supernatural. The only good thing about all this is that I don't like a lot of shows, so I can keep my addictions pretty well hidden ... unless, of course, you look through my DVD collection.
Anyways, I've been going through some DVDs of old television shows lately and got to thinking about my weird relationships with some shows. I have, for lack of a better term, an unusual sense of loyalty. For example, I wouldn't watch Alias when it first came on the air because it seemed like it would be unfaithful to Buffy. Hear me out. Buffy was THE kick-arse female hero of the era and along came this red-headed bimbo (remember, I didn't watch the show at this point and had only seen the commercials) who was on a real station and trying to act all bad-ass. She was obviously trying to steal Buffy's thunder and I just wasn't going to have it. So no way I'm watching Alias. Of course, I did eventually try the show after Buffy was off the air, bought all the DVDs and became almost as addicted to Alias -but that's beside the point. Then, when Buffy went off the air, I wouldn't watch Veronica Mars at first because, again, trying to rip off Buffy. After I got over that and became addicted to Veronica Mars, I wouldn't watch Lost because Lost was opposite Veronica and it seemed disloyal (no, I'm not a Neilson family, why do you ask?).
I always seem to develop this attachment to the shows I watch. I don't know why. It's not like the show "cares" whether I'm being faithful or even knows what faithful means. But still, I just can't bring myself to watch certain shows right away. The ironic thing is that the shows I won't watch usually end up being my favorites later - another case in point, Supernatural. It seemed like I was being unfaithful to Charmed (yeah, the show was campy, so what? It was still one of MY shows). Now, I have the same unhealthy dedication to Supernatural. The only good thing about all this is that I don't like a lot of shows, so I can keep my addictions pretty well hidden ... unless, of course, you look through my DVD collection.
Friday, June 13, 2008
On Reading
Been thinking about reading lately. I've been doing a lot more lately, mainly because there were a couple of books I recently bought (which means, given the number of unread books in the house, my guilt leads me to read these recent purchases much more quickly). I tend to be a collector. Part of it is opportunity - when you can get books cheap (or free - I'm looking at you, Book Expo), you feel stupid for not getting them, even if they may not be strictly in the genre you usually read. And hey, I do find good books this way ... when and if I eventually get around to reading them. But then there are the books you HAVE to get. For me, that's things like the Odd Thomas series (yeah, I know the third books sucked, but the fourth one is back on track and I can't help it, I like Odd) and Stephen King (shut up - I know he needs an editor, but his stories still grab me). And of course there are the topical books that won't matter a year from now (Scott McClellan's book comes to mind). So I flit from book to book, like a cat chasing a butterfly. Which means I have quite the backlog. Which should mean I won't buy any more books until I finish the ones I already have (but it doesn't).
I tend to be a bit eclectic in my tastes, ranging from non-fiction disease books to autobiographies to kids' fiction fantasy (gotta read some of the books my kids do, right?) to adult thrillers and mysteries and pretty much everything in between. The only thing I can't stand is romance. My husband claims I don't have a romantic bone in my body, and I suppose it's true. I just feel like romance slows down the story. Even in the Meg Cabot books I read (Heather Mills Mysteries, in case you were wondering), I roll my eyes at the romance, wishing she'd just get back to the story already.
Anyway, in an effort to get a bit more regular with the posting, I figured I'd share some of what I'm reading, what I hope to read, and what I've read that I would recommend.
Current Read: "Basket Case" by Carl Hiassen. I've been hooked on his books ever since I read "Sick Puppy." He just has a really warped sense of humor (and the bizarre). I think I found this one at a library sale. I'm glad I waited to read it as it seems much more relateable to me now that I'm going through my own mid-life crisis. It's about a reporter who pissed off the owner of the paper and got shuffled off to obituary duty. While writing the obituary for ex-rock star Jimmy Stoma, he starts to think that perhaps Jimmy's death wasn't an accident - and maybe the story could be his ticket back to the front page. It's fun summer read so far, with Hiassen's humor front and center.
To Read List:
I tend to be a bit eclectic in my tastes, ranging from non-fiction disease books to autobiographies to kids' fiction fantasy (gotta read some of the books my kids do, right?) to adult thrillers and mysteries and pretty much everything in between. The only thing I can't stand is romance. My husband claims I don't have a romantic bone in my body, and I suppose it's true. I just feel like romance slows down the story. Even in the Meg Cabot books I read (Heather Mills Mysteries, in case you were wondering), I roll my eyes at the romance, wishing she'd just get back to the story already.
Anyway, in an effort to get a bit more regular with the posting, I figured I'd share some of what I'm reading, what I hope to read, and what I've read that I would recommend.
Current Read: "Basket Case" by Carl Hiassen. I've been hooked on his books ever since I read "Sick Puppy." He just has a really warped sense of humor (and the bizarre). I think I found this one at a library sale. I'm glad I waited to read it as it seems much more relateable to me now that I'm going through my own mid-life crisis. It's about a reporter who pissed off the owner of the paper and got shuffled off to obituary duty. While writing the obituary for ex-rock star Jimmy Stoma, he starts to think that perhaps Jimmy's death wasn't an accident - and maybe the story could be his ticket back to the front page. It's fun summer read so far, with Hiassen's humor front and center.
To Read List:
- "What Happened: Inside the Bush White House and Washington's Culture of Deception" by Scott McClellan - what can I say, I'm still a political junkie.
- Harry Turtledove books - he does alternative history stuff ...sounds interesting.
- "The Fifth Floor" by Michael Harvey - Detective story that has gotten good reviews
- "Final Theory" by Mark Alpert - I think this one might jump to the top of the list. It's supposed to be kind of like a DaVinci only based on science, and, you know, actually researched, well written, and logical.
Recommendations: I only have two right now ... "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie (if you haven't heard about it go right now and pick it up. Yeah, it's Young Adult, but his humor and storytelling is just so strong you need to read this book). The other one is "The Septembers of Shiraz" by Dalia Sofer (It's a fictional account of living through the Alice-Through-The-Looking-Glass world of post revolution Iran. Stunningly well written, a page turner that I couldn't put down. It avoids being maudlin or overly depressing while still giving a clear picture of what it must have been like living through that time. Best book I've read in a bunch of years.)
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Two posts in one month? Why that just ain't right!
Ahem. Anyway, figured I'd post again while I'm thinking about it. Exercising? Going about as well as my attempt to cure world hunger. Ah well. At least we opened the pool. Although I gotta say, I think we're going to spend more time working on the pool than swimming in it. At least it looks purdy.
Other Random thoughts:
- Started watching the BBC's new Robin Hood series (well, new to me - it started in 2006). And while I've always been a Robin Hood fan (at least ever since they broadcast it on "Once Upon a Classic" ... and the Disney movie with the foxes), I have to admit it's the humor and the eye candy that keeps bringing me back. Love seeing Jez from Hex as Much (Shut up. I know the show stunk. I still watched it). I really do want to smack Maid Marion though.
- Finished up "Book of Fate" (high recommendation for that book) and am having trouble getting into a new book. That's what I hate about finishing a book - if it's any good at all, I don't want to leave the world that the writer created, and I get resentful and sluggish in trying to read a new book because I don't want to change worlds. It's even worse because the book I'm trying to read ("Gambit") sounds like it was written by my fourth grader before her writing improved. Think I'm lying? Try rolling this line around in you mouth: "She pushed a strand of strawberry blond hair back behind her headband and straightened the skirt of her navy blue suit." What's wrong with it? Um, how about wordy without giving you any information? I don't care what color her suit is - it's not pertinent to the story. "Strawberry blond" is also pretty much guaranteed to make me roll my eyes. And headband? She's a freakin' professional meeting the President of the United States and she wears a headband? Stuck in the 80's much? The prose continues like this, with description of the "plus white couch", "white fireplace" (gee, ya think there's a lot of white in this place), and my personal favorite, the "polished mahogany desk" and "green-striped side chair". Um, besides being hideously decorated, you think the writer could come up with something other than color as a description? I usually give a book 50 pages before I bail, but this one is trying my patience ... and I'm only on page 23!
- Because I'm having trouble with "Gambit", I'm also reading "Castle Waiting." It's a graphic novel based on fairy stories, which I'm a sucker for. I have a feeling I'm going to finish it before I get anywhere near page 50 on "Gambit".
That's about it for now. See, I'm trying to post more frequently. Can I have a cookie?
Other Random thoughts:
- Started watching the BBC's new Robin Hood series (well, new to me - it started in 2006). And while I've always been a Robin Hood fan (at least ever since they broadcast it on "Once Upon a Classic" ... and the Disney movie with the foxes), I have to admit it's the humor and the eye candy that keeps bringing me back. Love seeing Jez from Hex as Much (Shut up. I know the show stunk. I still watched it). I really do want to smack Maid Marion though.
- Finished up "Book of Fate" (high recommendation for that book) and am having trouble getting into a new book. That's what I hate about finishing a book - if it's any good at all, I don't want to leave the world that the writer created, and I get resentful and sluggish in trying to read a new book because I don't want to change worlds. It's even worse because the book I'm trying to read ("Gambit") sounds like it was written by my fourth grader before her writing improved. Think I'm lying? Try rolling this line around in you mouth: "She pushed a strand of strawberry blond hair back behind her headband and straightened the skirt of her navy blue suit." What's wrong with it? Um, how about wordy without giving you any information? I don't care what color her suit is - it's not pertinent to the story. "Strawberry blond" is also pretty much guaranteed to make me roll my eyes. And headband? She's a freakin' professional meeting the President of the United States and she wears a headband? Stuck in the 80's much? The prose continues like this, with description of the "plus white couch", "white fireplace" (gee, ya think there's a lot of white in this place), and my personal favorite, the "polished mahogany desk" and "green-striped side chair". Um, besides being hideously decorated, you think the writer could come up with something other than color as a description? I usually give a book 50 pages before I bail, but this one is trying my patience ... and I'm only on page 23!
- Because I'm having trouble with "Gambit", I'm also reading "Castle Waiting." It's a graphic novel based on fairy stories, which I'm a sucker for. I have a feeling I'm going to finish it before I get anywhere near page 50 on "Gambit".
That's about it for now. See, I'm trying to post more frequently. Can I have a cookie?
Friday, May 09, 2008
The Prodigal Update
Wow, has it really been since November last year since I posted anything? Wow. Why would anyone still visit?
OK, so where am I? What am I? Why am I here? Where is here? *shakes head* Excuse me for a second ... ok, I'm back. Let's see, life in general? Feels a bit rut-ish, rut-like, or to put it another way, nothing's horrid, but I feel like I've been in a rut lately (shocking, eh?). I need to break free from the work-home-sleep pattern. I know I should be exercising, but I just don't feel like it. I recently came to the realization that I really don't like exercise. Nothing about it is really appealing to me. The best I can say about it is that old quote about classic novels - everyone wants to have read them (but nobody wants to read them). Yeah, I know, prolonging life and quality of life and all that, but I still don't like it. That's why I'm fits and starts girl. I get going for about a week and then ... well, let's just say I'm an expert at finding out ways to avoid it. Plus eating? I love. So, well, you know. I'm starting again (again again ...). Might even use this thing to measure progress (at least I'll have something to update). Let's just say right now, I'm at XX7.6 lbs, ok?
Let's see, what else? Girls are ok. I've been doing my best to geekify them - they both look forward to Fridays because they get to see the Sarah Jane Adventures. The younger girl finally started to read ... Fairie books. Have you ever seen the Rainbow fairies? They're very similar to the Weather faires ... and the Jewel Faires ... oh, and lest we forget the Pet Fairies. Stunningly, this group of writers have managed to write four 7-book series that vary only in title. Still, I have to say I have a grudging admiration for them in that they finally got my reluctant first grader to read (even if they do make me want to bang my head against the wall).
As for my tv viewing? Nothing normal. I'd like to get into Lost again, but I'm so woefully behind that DVDs are going to be my only option. I'm watching Supernatural pretty regularly (am I the only one who likes the Ruby character? Of course, I also prefer Sam to Dean, so I guess I'm a bit weird). Fridays on Sci Fi are my latest addiction - though I may give up Battlestar if they insist on making Baltar into Christ. Why do "creative" endeavors feel the need to abuse my faith? If they treated any other historical figure the way they do Christ (think MLK Jr, Mother Teresa, or someone like that), there'd be rioting in the street. But somehow it's ok because it's Jesus. Gimme a break.
Politics? I think I might be turning Republican. Since neither party is planning on doing what needs to be done (like, I dunno, investigate alternative fuels other than ethanol? Balance the budget? Provide true universal health care?), might as well vote my wallet. Yeah, there's a pretty big rant behind this, but I just don't have the energy.
OK, probably enough for one day. See ya in several months (or maybe next week).
OK, so where am I? What am I? Why am I here? Where is here? *shakes head* Excuse me for a second ... ok, I'm back. Let's see, life in general? Feels a bit rut-ish, rut-like, or to put it another way, nothing's horrid, but I feel like I've been in a rut lately (shocking, eh?). I need to break free from the work-home-sleep pattern. I know I should be exercising, but I just don't feel like it. I recently came to the realization that I really don't like exercise. Nothing about it is really appealing to me. The best I can say about it is that old quote about classic novels - everyone wants to have read them (but nobody wants to read them). Yeah, I know, prolonging life and quality of life and all that, but I still don't like it. That's why I'm fits and starts girl. I get going for about a week and then ... well, let's just say I'm an expert at finding out ways to avoid it. Plus eating? I love. So, well, you know. I'm starting again (again again ...). Might even use this thing to measure progress (at least I'll have something to update). Let's just say right now, I'm at XX7.6 lbs, ok?
Let's see, what else? Girls are ok. I've been doing my best to geekify them - they both look forward to Fridays because they get to see the Sarah Jane Adventures. The younger girl finally started to read ... Fairie books. Have you ever seen the Rainbow fairies? They're very similar to the Weather faires ... and the Jewel Faires ... oh, and lest we forget the Pet Fairies. Stunningly, this group of writers have managed to write four 7-book series that vary only in title. Still, I have to say I have a grudging admiration for them in that they finally got my reluctant first grader to read (even if they do make me want to bang my head against the wall).
As for my tv viewing? Nothing normal. I'd like to get into Lost again, but I'm so woefully behind that DVDs are going to be my only option. I'm watching Supernatural pretty regularly (am I the only one who likes the Ruby character? Of course, I also prefer Sam to Dean, so I guess I'm a bit weird). Fridays on Sci Fi are my latest addiction - though I may give up Battlestar if they insist on making Baltar into Christ. Why do "creative" endeavors feel the need to abuse my faith? If they treated any other historical figure the way they do Christ (think MLK Jr, Mother Teresa, or someone like that), there'd be rioting in the street. But somehow it's ok because it's Jesus. Gimme a break.
Politics? I think I might be turning Republican. Since neither party is planning on doing what needs to be done (like, I dunno, investigate alternative fuels other than ethanol? Balance the budget? Provide true universal health care?), might as well vote my wallet. Yeah, there's a pretty big rant behind this, but I just don't have the energy.
OK, probably enough for one day. See ya in several months (or maybe next week).
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Once A Month, Whether I Have Anything to Say Or Not
Actually, I was kinda sorta hoping to be a bit more regular than that, but heck, at the rate I'm going, once a month would be an improvement. Part of it is because I'm trying not to post at work (plus work has turned to the busy side). I'm not in trouble or anything, just figure it isn't the best idea in the world. And since I've started exercising in the evening again (some more), well, not a lot of time. Gah, I really gotta stop setting goals and all that. They take up way too much time. Lately, I've been trying to read 50 pages a day of a book and exercise nightly. Believe it or not, that takes a ton of time.
So ... what's new? Let's see ... hmm... the pool project is STILL ongoing. We're working on landscaping now. It's beginning to remind me of the movie "The Money Pit", but it really does look nice. That's why I'm exercising - I figure by the time the weather warms up, I'll look fabulous (or at least avoid having Greenpeace showing up trying to get me to stop beaching myself). The reading thing is in lieu of writing. I figure it's still kinda sorta almost like writing. It's um... research, yeah, that's it, research. Sad thing is I was really digging the last thing I was writing but I just can't seem to get motivated again. I think I'm going to try again after the holidays, when I have more time (right?).
Let's see, had teacher conferences. The older girl idolizes her teacher and the feeling is mutual, apparently. It's a bit on the sickening side, but good for her. I just have to watch my eye-rolling. The younger girl has a teacher that understands her, which is good. She said we should work on Katherine's stubbornness - but on the other hand, the teacher admitted she'd rather have someone with an opinion than a shrinking violet. Overall, I think they are doing pretty well.
Work has been picking up, which is good, I guess. Hey, only 20 years until retirement. Yay?
Christmas shopping is pretty much done - we convinced the kids to ask for pool toys, which we were going to have to buy anyway. Sneaky, but effective.
I think that's about it. Rest assured that even if I'm not as visible online, I am around.
So ... what's new? Let's see ... hmm... the pool project is STILL ongoing. We're working on landscaping now. It's beginning to remind me of the movie "The Money Pit", but it really does look nice. That's why I'm exercising - I figure by the time the weather warms up, I'll look fabulous (or at least avoid having Greenpeace showing up trying to get me to stop beaching myself). The reading thing is in lieu of writing. I figure it's still kinda sorta almost like writing. It's um... research, yeah, that's it, research. Sad thing is I was really digging the last thing I was writing but I just can't seem to get motivated again. I think I'm going to try again after the holidays, when I have more time (right?).
Let's see, had teacher conferences. The older girl idolizes her teacher and the feeling is mutual, apparently. It's a bit on the sickening side, but good for her. I just have to watch my eye-rolling. The younger girl has a teacher that understands her, which is good. She said we should work on Katherine's stubbornness - but on the other hand, the teacher admitted she'd rather have someone with an opinion than a shrinking violet. Overall, I think they are doing pretty well.
Work has been picking up, which is good, I guess. Hey, only 20 years until retirement. Yay?
Christmas shopping is pretty much done - we convinced the kids to ask for pool toys, which we were going to have to buy anyway. Sneaky, but effective.
I think that's about it. Rest assured that even if I'm not as visible online, I am around.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
*tap, tap* Is This Thing On?
Wow, haven't posted in nearly 2 months. I'm not sure anyone is still checking this, figuring I died or something, but ...
Let's see, what's happened the last couple of months? Well, got a pool (also known as the money pit), swam once for 30 minutes and got pneumonia. Yeah, that's right. The money pit pool caused my pneumonia (at least in my mind - here's hoping I get over that). I swam for 30 minutes on a Friday night and noticed I couldn't catch my breath. I didn't think much of it 'cause 1) I'm horridly out of shape and 2) It was damn cold. Next day, I do absolutely nothing. Seriously. Sat on a chair and felt miserable. By Sunday, I was measuring temperatures of 105 and figured it might be time to see the doctor. Monday, go to a doctor whom I will never visit again, and he says don't worry about it, there's some bug going around, I should be fine by Wednesday. Oh, and did I mention that he didn't think a 105 degree fever was worth medicine? Anyway, vegged out on Tuesday, and by Wednesday, still felt like crap. Got the hubby (who, did I mention also managed to get pneumonia) to take me for a chest x-ray (which I discovered is pretty useless with pneumonia 'cause it doesn't show up right away). Anyway, since the x-ray is clear, I'm figuring I should go back to work. Never mind I still feel like crap, hey, I've already wasted 3 vacation days and since the doctor said I should be feeling better, I should be feeling better, dammit. I lasted, oh about 3 hours on Thursday at work (pity anyone who got anything I did that morning) until I had to call hubby to take me home. Went to the doctor again on Friday (this time a different doc). Hey, guess what? Pneumonia. At least I finally go antibiotics. I went to work the next week, was only valuable for about half a day, but at least I didn't waste any more vacation. Last week was pretty much the same. It's only this week that I'm able to be coherent all day long. Fun stuff, eh?
Let's see, what's happened the last couple of months? Well, got a pool (also known as the money pit), swam once for 30 minutes and got pneumonia. Yeah, that's right. The money pit pool caused my pneumonia (at least in my mind - here's hoping I get over that). I swam for 30 minutes on a Friday night and noticed I couldn't catch my breath. I didn't think much of it 'cause 1) I'm horridly out of shape and 2) It was damn cold. Next day, I do absolutely nothing. Seriously. Sat on a chair and felt miserable. By Sunday, I was measuring temperatures of 105 and figured it might be time to see the doctor. Monday, go to a doctor whom I will never visit again, and he says don't worry about it, there's some bug going around, I should be fine by Wednesday. Oh, and did I mention that he didn't think a 105 degree fever was worth medicine? Anyway, vegged out on Tuesday, and by Wednesday, still felt like crap. Got the hubby (who, did I mention also managed to get pneumonia) to take me for a chest x-ray (which I discovered is pretty useless with pneumonia 'cause it doesn't show up right away). Anyway, since the x-ray is clear, I'm figuring I should go back to work. Never mind I still feel like crap, hey, I've already wasted 3 vacation days and since the doctor said I should be feeling better, I should be feeling better, dammit. I lasted, oh about 3 hours on Thursday at work (pity anyone who got anything I did that morning) until I had to call hubby to take me home. Went to the doctor again on Friday (this time a different doc). Hey, guess what? Pneumonia. At least I finally go antibiotics. I went to work the next week, was only valuable for about half a day, but at least I didn't waste any more vacation. Last week was pretty much the same. It's only this week that I'm able to be coherent all day long. Fun stuff, eh?
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Books, Books, and More Books
In case I haven't mentioned it, I love to read. Shocking, I know. Anyways, I was just thinking about what writers I will buy based on the power of their name only. As much as I enjoy reading, there are few left alive that fit this category (I have GOT to find me some new authors). Anyways, here's my list:
1. Neil Gaiman - The only thing I've read of his that I don't like are his short stories. Any novel, whether adult or juvenile, graphic or regular, I'm there. In fact, he's one of the few authors that can cause me to see a movie as well. Screwy sense of humor, elements of the fantastical, wry social commentary, obsession with mythology (Norse, Greek, you name it) - there's nothing about his writing (except the short stories) that I don't like.
2. Sherman Alexie - He's the only writer I know of that can write truthfully about life on a Reservation and not depress the hell out of you. Most of his writing reflects what he knows, but he's funny and insightful and ... well, if you haven't read his books, at the very least, you should rent the movie Smoke Signals. Yeah, he did that one as well.
3. Dean Koontz and/or Stephen King - Ok, I should warn you that here is were my love for the writer takes a big step down. I mean, I like them and yeah, I'll buy on name alone, but I have to admit that sometimes the quality isn't there. King needs an editor, but no one will edit him anymore. Still, he spins fascinating stories, even if they don't always work. My trouble with Koontz is that he tends to write the same story over and over and over again. I still like his stuff, but it's not the love that I have for the first two writers.
And ... that's pretty much it. I know, what about JK Rowling. Well, yeah, I loved the Potter books as much as anyone. I just don't know I would buy a book just because she wrote it. I need to see something outside Potter before I judge. Same with Scott B. Smith. Yes, I loved The Ruins, but the guy's only written 2 books. I need a bigger sample size. Meg Cabot? Well, she's amusing, and I'd probably buy the Heather Mills books for a quick read, but she writes so much that's meh that I can't put her on my liste either. The other folks I read are either one-offs or dead. So who's on your must-read list?
1. Neil Gaiman - The only thing I've read of his that I don't like are his short stories. Any novel, whether adult or juvenile, graphic or regular, I'm there. In fact, he's one of the few authors that can cause me to see a movie as well. Screwy sense of humor, elements of the fantastical, wry social commentary, obsession with mythology (Norse, Greek, you name it) - there's nothing about his writing (except the short stories) that I don't like.
2. Sherman Alexie - He's the only writer I know of that can write truthfully about life on a Reservation and not depress the hell out of you. Most of his writing reflects what he knows, but he's funny and insightful and ... well, if you haven't read his books, at the very least, you should rent the movie Smoke Signals. Yeah, he did that one as well.
3. Dean Koontz and/or Stephen King - Ok, I should warn you that here is were my love for the writer takes a big step down. I mean, I like them and yeah, I'll buy on name alone, but I have to admit that sometimes the quality isn't there. King needs an editor, but no one will edit him anymore. Still, he spins fascinating stories, even if they don't always work. My trouble with Koontz is that he tends to write the same story over and over and over again. I still like his stuff, but it's not the love that I have for the first two writers.
And ... that's pretty much it. I know, what about JK Rowling. Well, yeah, I loved the Potter books as much as anyone. I just don't know I would buy a book just because she wrote it. I need to see something outside Potter before I judge. Same with Scott B. Smith. Yes, I loved The Ruins, but the guy's only written 2 books. I need a bigger sample size. Meg Cabot? Well, she's amusing, and I'd probably buy the Heather Mills books for a quick read, but she writes so much that's meh that I can't put her on my liste either. The other folks I read are either one-offs or dead. So who's on your must-read list?
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Unique and Universal
Warning: Religious musings ahead. Proceed with caution.
Been reading a book called "God's Plan for Getting Things Done." It's kind of interesting. It's basic premise is that we all tend to plan using one of two methods: projection planning (x% more than in the past) or wishful thinking. Neither one has much place for God in it, and because of that, we shouldn't be too surprised when our plans fall flat. I have to admit I'm guilty of both options. Anyway, it continues to comment that God has basically two plans for our lives: unique and universal. The universal plans are the ones that tend to get all the press. They're the big things that everyone is supposed to do, go ye into all the world and all that stuff. But it's the unique plans that tend to be more important to your personal happiness. If God has a plan for you, doesn't it make sense that there is a personal aspect to it? Primarily, for me right now, it seems to be what should I be doing for a living. I always assumed that since I'm not happy, I must not be doing what I should be doing, but danged if I could figure out what I should be doing. I'm beginning to think I might be looking at this all wrong. If God is in control, then he's not going to let me screw up the big things. I tend to believe in the golden hammer method, which is basically, God will allow you to muck up the small stuff, but eventually, He's going to make sure you get the big stuff basically right. Which means, to me, that He wouldn't let me make a major career decision without being involved, right? If that is the case, then maybe, just maybe, I AM doing what I'm supposed to be doing, and what needs to change is my attitude? Something to think about, eh?
Been reading a book called "God's Plan for Getting Things Done." It's kind of interesting. It's basic premise is that we all tend to plan using one of two methods: projection planning (x% more than in the past) or wishful thinking. Neither one has much place for God in it, and because of that, we shouldn't be too surprised when our plans fall flat. I have to admit I'm guilty of both options. Anyway, it continues to comment that God has basically two plans for our lives: unique and universal. The universal plans are the ones that tend to get all the press. They're the big things that everyone is supposed to do, go ye into all the world and all that stuff. But it's the unique plans that tend to be more important to your personal happiness. If God has a plan for you, doesn't it make sense that there is a personal aspect to it? Primarily, for me right now, it seems to be what should I be doing for a living. I always assumed that since I'm not happy, I must not be doing what I should be doing, but danged if I could figure out what I should be doing. I'm beginning to think I might be looking at this all wrong. If God is in control, then he's not going to let me screw up the big things. I tend to believe in the golden hammer method, which is basically, God will allow you to muck up the small stuff, but eventually, He's going to make sure you get the big stuff basically right. Which means, to me, that He wouldn't let me make a major career decision without being involved, right? If that is the case, then maybe, just maybe, I AM doing what I'm supposed to be doing, and what needs to change is my attitude? Something to think about, eh?
Monday, August 13, 2007
Stardust the review
Saw this movie over the weekend with the family. What a delightful little movie! It's captivating in a bunch of small ways. While I've been a Gaiman fan for years, for some reason, I never read this one (something I plan to remedy this week). Since I haven't read the book, I cannot tell you how faithful it was to his original vision. What I can say is it is sweet, whimsical and magical all without being sappy. The acting, while spotty at times (I'm looking at you, Claire Danes), is good enough to not be distracting. The scenery is gorgeous, very English, as is the sensibilities of the storyline, which means it has just the right touch of droll humor. I was a bit afraid of taking the kids because it was rated PG-13. And while I can understand the rating, I have to admit, I've seen more objectionable material in some PG movies I've seen. There was no swearing at all that I recall. While there was one scene of sexual intimacy, they merely showed the couple kissing and then cut away. The biggest objection (besides some implied sexuality), would probably have been the violence. But even that was done mostly off screen. If you love fairy tales and well told stories, I highly recommend Stardust. And if you like Stardust, check out Mirrormask on DVD (another Gaiman movie). You won't regret it.
Thursday, August 09, 2007
Buffy the Vampire Slayer - Season 8
Up until now, I have to say that I've been fairly underwhelmed by the highly touted "Season 8" Buffy comic book. I mean, yeah, the characters were all there, and yeah, they had really talented writers, but the stories all felt underdeveloped and superficial. It was like they were doing cameos, but the stories lacked the depth or darkness of the original. It was like they spent four issues parading our old favorites around so we could clap for them and didn't want to distract from that with an actual story. The fact that they decided to bring back Amy and Warren as the big bads didn't help much. Been there, done that, and Amy, please call your lawyer and sue for defamation of character. The giant Dawn was just a silly sight gag gone on too long. Something was missing. I just didn't feel for these characters anymore.
Finally, I read issue 5 - a stand alone that did not even have Buffy in it. Loved it. In one short comic, they created a character I could feel for. The central figure is one of the Buffy impersonators. The story of how she got there, what she was doing .... well, if you haven't read it, it felt very much like an early Buffy. I wonder if we've learned too much about the core Scoobies for them to hold our interest. I mean, they have all theoretically grown and are much too wise and powerful to experience the emotions I want to see. I like doubt - but after seven years as the Slayer, is it realistic for Buffy to still doubt herself? What can they confront these characters with that they haven't already seen several times? I just hope we see more stand alone stories without the key characters, particularly if Issue 5 is an indication of what we can expect.
Finally, I read issue 5 - a stand alone that did not even have Buffy in it. Loved it. In one short comic, they created a character I could feel for. The central figure is one of the Buffy impersonators. The story of how she got there, what she was doing .... well, if you haven't read it, it felt very much like an early Buffy. I wonder if we've learned too much about the core Scoobies for them to hold our interest. I mean, they have all theoretically grown and are much too wise and powerful to experience the emotions I want to see. I like doubt - but after seven years as the Slayer, is it realistic for Buffy to still doubt herself? What can they confront these characters with that they haven't already seen several times? I just hope we see more stand alone stories without the key characters, particularly if Issue 5 is an indication of what we can expect.
Wednesday, August 08, 2007
Dream a Little Dream
Had a really weird dream last night - I dreamed that some old, grey haired guy kept trying to steal my cell phone. By the third time he tried to take it (while I was talking on it, no less), I had had enough and chased him down and started pummelling him. I was more upset that my hitting him seemed to have no effect on him than I was that he had taken the phone in the first place. Oh, one final detail - the phone was pink.
Weird, right? Especially since I don't tend to remember my dreams. But wait, it gets weirder. A friend looked up what it could mean. Here's what she found (verbatim):
The old man denotes the masculine side of yourself. The phone represents your communication and relationship to self and others. Pink is your feminine side and also health and good feelings.
So... the masculine side of yourself is trying to over take your feminine side. You may be trying to be more in touch with your femininity, to be healthy and happy? ... and the old fat guy keeps butting in?
The funny thing is that I've been struggling at work, mainly because I don't really like going into work. I mean, I love my life outside of work, it's just that to get what I want outside of work, I have to go there. And I hate going there. And it takes too much time away from what I want to be doing. Think my subconscious is trying to tell me something?
Weird, right? Especially since I don't tend to remember my dreams. But wait, it gets weirder. A friend looked up what it could mean. Here's what she found (verbatim):
The old man denotes the masculine side of yourself. The phone represents your communication and relationship to self and others. Pink is your feminine side and also health and good feelings.
So... the masculine side of yourself is trying to over take your feminine side. You may be trying to be more in touch with your femininity, to be healthy and happy? ... and the old fat guy keeps butting in?
The funny thing is that I've been struggling at work, mainly because I don't really like going into work. I mean, I love my life outside of work, it's just that to get what I want outside of work, I have to go there. And I hate going there. And it takes too much time away from what I want to be doing. Think my subconscious is trying to tell me something?
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Nobody Ever Said It Would Be Easy ...
Yeah, you know the rest. For some unknown reason, I never thought about how tough being a parent is before I was one. Yeah, yeah, yeah, you hear the stories, but really, how hard can it be unless your kid is Hannibal Lecter? Well, I don't THINK either one of the girls is heading down that path (we do worry about the younger one, on occasion, though), it's not as easy as I thought it would be. You see, I'm kind of an uptight, worrywart. It's like if I don't worry, then I don't care enough, then everything is going to go to hell in a handbasket. So I worry so that things don't go haywire (yes, I know, my logic is not like your earth logic). Anyway, now I get to worry not just about myself, but everything in the kids' lives too. You see, despite the total lack of reality, I tend to think things have to go perfectly in their lives, that they should never suffer disappointment, or suffer at all for that matter (again, logic? No where near this post). So now I feel like if something doesn't work out, it's somehow my fault for not doing enough. Cracked, huh?
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Maria Full of Grace
Hey, finally off the Harry Potter posts for a day. I've started "Satanic Verses" - got it years ago for 50 cents to see what the fuss was about and am only getting around to reading it now. I'll let you know what I think once I get a bit further into it.
Finally saw the movie "Maria Full of Grace" last night - or should I say, I saw part of it. It's been on my Netflix list for forever, and I figured I either needed to watch it or remove it from the list. There really should be an expiration date for movies on your list. Anyways, I put it on the list because it was supposed to be "good"- which, technically, it was. The writing was realistic, the pacing well done, the acting good for the most part. It's just I can't figure out why anyone in their right mind would want to watch it. Maybe it was because I was in a bad mood anyway, but watching a girl make one bad decision after another isn't exactly entertaining. I know, I know, what do you expect in a movie about a drug mule, but it was just painful watching. It seems as though the more depressing a movie, the better the reviews. Anyway, the moral of the story is if you decide to become a drug mule, don't steal the drugs from the dealer. Gee, glad I had a movie to tell me that, huh?
Finally saw the movie "Maria Full of Grace" last night - or should I say, I saw part of it. It's been on my Netflix list for forever, and I figured I either needed to watch it or remove it from the list. There really should be an expiration date for movies on your list. Anyways, I put it on the list because it was supposed to be "good"- which, technically, it was. The writing was realistic, the pacing well done, the acting good for the most part. It's just I can't figure out why anyone in their right mind would want to watch it. Maybe it was because I was in a bad mood anyway, but watching a girl make one bad decision after another isn't exactly entertaining. I know, I know, what do you expect in a movie about a drug mule, but it was just painful watching. It seems as though the more depressing a movie, the better the reviews. Anyway, the moral of the story is if you decide to become a drug mule, don't steal the drugs from the dealer. Gee, glad I had a movie to tell me that, huh?
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Truth in Harry Potter
Yeah, I'm not done talking about the book yet. As an offshoot of yesterday's conversation, the subject of Rita Skeeter came up. She's another character, who while ostensibly not on Voldemort's side, per se, has at the very least a greyish tint to her character. One of the more interesting things is the question, "Does Rita Skeeter lie?" Think about it. She may not tell the whole truth, and she make take things out of context, but does she ever out and out lie? Typically, she takes an actual incident (out of context) and then poses questions. Harry ran from Dumbledore's death scene (fact). Could there have been more to it? Was he somehow involved? I was struck by the fact that she did often tell the truth (kind of).
Which leads to a bigger question of truth in the book. Many people lie, or at least avoid telling the whole truth. Look at Dumbledore. Look at Snape. Did lying make them automatically evil? Did it work for the "greater good" or did it impede the greater good? How is lying portrayed in the book? It is always necessary for everyone to know the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth? What would have happened had Harry known that he would survive Voldemort killing him? It might have made his actions less noble, but would it have changed the outcome?
Which leads to a bigger question of truth in the book. Many people lie, or at least avoid telling the whole truth. Look at Dumbledore. Look at Snape. Did lying make them automatically evil? Did it work for the "greater good" or did it impede the greater good? How is lying portrayed in the book? It is always necessary for everyone to know the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth? What would have happened had Harry known that he would survive Voldemort killing him? It might have made his actions less noble, but would it have changed the outcome?
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Evil in Harry Potter
And no, I'm not talking about the "burn the book" kind of evil. I just finished the last Harry Potter book last night (well, actually, about 2am this morning - I had to finish it once I found out my daughter did. She's not exactly good at not letting plot points out, so if I wanted to be surprised, I kind of had to stay up and finish it). One thing that struck me was the interesting way JK deals with evil in her books. I mean, ok, you have Voldemort, Evil with a capital "E" right? But there are many levels of evil explored in the books when you look at it. What about Delores Umbridge? As far as we know, she wasn't knowingly in cahoots with Voldemort, right? So then, was she evil? I think she was, but a far more sinister, human type of evil ... just an evil, power-hungry, bitchy person. No, she didn't support the big Evil, but what she did to Harry and the non-purebloods could definitely be described as evil, little "e". Even within the people who did support big Evil, there were varying degrees of evil - for example, Bellatrix vs. Narcissa. Could you classify them both as categorically evil? Was one more evil than the other? Can evil be mitigated? And what about people who are basically shown as good who have their evil moments? What about X. Lovegood? Was he evil? Trying to turn Harry and his friends over to the Death Eaters was definitely evil, no matter how understandable his circumstances. And what about Ron walking out on Hermione and Harry? Wasn't that 'evil' given the circumstances? Even Dumbledore had his evil moments.
That's really what I like about the books - they are at one level, a rolicking good read. But at another, they really do explore big concepts without shying away from the uncomfortable aspects of the issue. I like that there is some subjectivity to the situations (another great example is Kreacher - was he ever really evil or merely responding to his circumstances). It makes them fun to discuss with the kids (even if it does drive them nuts).
That's really what I like about the books - they are at one level, a rolicking good read. But at another, they really do explore big concepts without shying away from the uncomfortable aspects of the issue. I like that there is some subjectivity to the situations (another great example is Kreacher - was he ever really evil or merely responding to his circumstances). It makes them fun to discuss with the kids (even if it does drive them nuts).
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Why?
Why is it that when I'm bumming about something that I desperately want to do something that is bad for me? I mean some people when they start stressing can't eat - me? If it doesn't move, well, ...
But why do I think this is going to make me feel better? Usually it just makes things worse cause now I have the added bonus of having overeaten added to whatever was bugging me in the first place. And if it isn't eating, why do I suddenly have an urge to go shopping? Like that's really going to help. *sigh* I guess it's just the urge to do something about the situation. But why can't it be something like running a marathon? Ugh.
But why do I think this is going to make me feel better? Usually it just makes things worse cause now I have the added bonus of having overeaten added to whatever was bugging me in the first place. And if it isn't eating, why do I suddenly have an urge to go shopping? Like that's really going to help. *sigh* I guess it's just the urge to do something about the situation. But why can't it be something like running a marathon? Ugh.
Monday, July 16, 2007
This and That
Been awhile. I'm feeling a bit stressed about work, which means I pretty much stew about things rather than doing anything. Nothing new there. Anyways, been trying to read a bit more. Started a book called "From Eden to Exile" which is an archeological approach to the Old Testament. It's a bit irritating because the guy kind of starts from a viewpoint of the Old Testament is just a bunch of stories borrowed from other cultures, and obviously amateurs have no business saying anything about it. Which is kind of funny, considering one of the greatest scholars in this area (an English guy named Smith from the 1870's) was a rank amateur. Oh well, it's interesting, just wish he wouldn't spend so much time trying to discredit other folks and more time on what he wants to say. Like most of this type of research, I tend to fall in the middle - yes, I do believe in biblical teachings, but I think a lot of it has been misinterpreted and that folks need to explore for themselves. Bottom line, I want to hear the proof, but I also get tired of the oh-so-learned acting like you'd have to be an idiot to believe in the Bible.
Got caught up on some Supernaturals I taped over the weekend. I really do enjoy that show - it has a nice combination of suspense and family. Not to mention some very nice to look at leads. Can't wait to see what they do this fall.
Got caught up on some Supernaturals I taped over the weekend. I really do enjoy that show - it has a nice combination of suspense and family. Not to mention some very nice to look at leads. Can't wait to see what they do this fall.
Friday, June 29, 2007
Legally Blonde
Just got the official soundtrack to the Legally Blonde stage musical, and I have to say I was a bit disappointed. I'd been listening to a preliminary recording, and somehow, the real soundtrack was anticlimactic. I was puzzled at my reaction as I did enjoy the show, but I felt disconnected from it. Then when I listened to the preliminary CD, I fell in love with the show. I couldn't wait for the "real" CD - even though I knew there had been changes, I figured it would be even better, with a couple of songs from Orfeh who has an awesome voice. But when I got the CD, I found myself let down. Part of it was how some of the songs were recorded - Laura Bell Bundy sang them either in a higher pitch or somehow avoided the edge to her voice, which I find awesome. They just seemed to neuter the Elle character. I couldn't quite put my finger on it until I listened to one of the last songs, where Elle is considering going back home and giving up. In the preliminary CD, she sang, "That's fine with me, just let me be Legally Blonde." The final version was "It's not up to me, just let me be Legally Blonde." Not a big change? No, it was a huge change. In the original version, she had dared to dream that she could be more than what people thought she could be. She knew she could be more, but had never dared to do it. That's why it's heartbreaking when she decides - yes, she makes a decision - that it's not worth the fight anymore, that she'll just be what they expect her to be. Compare that with the second version, where here's poor little Elle, no choice in the matter. What a simpering wimp! The two characters are completely different. And that's why I liked the preliminary version better. That Elle, while a bit superficial, was never stupid or unaware. She was a fighter. She knew what people thought but she wasn't going to let it get to her - to steal a phrase from another cut song, she was a "Beacon of Positivity." They take that all away in the final version. It's almost like they are afraid a strong Elle is an unlikeable Elle. And that's why I'll keep listening to the earlier version.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Xanadu
We took the girls to NY to see Xanadu the musical (seriously) this weekend. What a hoot (yeah, I know, I'm old - we use words like hoot). Anyone who's around 40-ish would love it. It's just such a great bashing of the 80's (in an affection way). From Olivia Newton John's accent and breathy singing to leg warmers to Clash of the Titans, everything was fair game. And the acting, singing, and dancing were superb. It's a small theater with an intimate feel, which adds to the you're-in-on-the-joke attitude of the show. It couldn't have been more fun. And just as important, we managed to park for $14! Hey, don't knock the enthusiasm. You try to park an SUV in a safe location for under $50 for the day.
I'm still working on my story for my daughter - she keeps me at it because she asks for updates almost every day. I'm getting a bit scared because I think this might actually be good.
I'm still working on my story for my daughter - she keeps me at it because she asks for updates almost every day. I'm getting a bit scared because I think this might actually be good.
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