Rightmyer Rants

Monsterpiece Theatre

2011-01-14T00:01:00.000-05:00

In 1985 to 1986, WLEX-TV (Channel 18) began hosting horror movies after Saturday Night Live with a local horror show host, Millicent B. Ghastly. I was only able to capture a few episodes, but the character and her crew had a loyal following. I believe she was portrayed by then-local-actress Barbara Ends, who co-wrote the show with her husband, Stephen Schwartz (who played the Little Blue Guy who had no legs). I'm sure there are others who remember this show... I've just putting what I have up on my channel so that they can relive fond memories of staying up way too late to see if Millie read their letter.

Way Back Wednesday - Dr. Snuggles

2011-01-13T00:17:00.000-05:00

Dr. Snuggles

Doctor Snuggles is an animated series about a friendly and optimistic inventor named Doctor Snuggles who has unusual adventures with his friends in a slightly psychedelic world. The show featured fantastical scenarios which usually involved Doctor Snuggles inventing something outlandish such as a robot helper or diamond-making machine, and had a variety of supporting characters who were mostly anthropomorphic animals.

Doctor Snuggles is a cuddly little man, an incurable optimist who longs to make the world a better place. He lives in his quaint house at the edge of the wood. It could be anywhere in the whole wide world. Doctor Snuggles is an inventor. He invents a variety of wondrous contraptions in his shed at the bottom of the garden. Each invention is specially designed to help children, animals and all living things everywhere. His aims and dreams lead him in and out of many delightful adventures. Mostly things do not transpire exactly the way Doctor Snuggles has planned, but along the way he gets caught up in a world of new friends and happy happenings; brimful of magic, laughter and fantasy.

I'm so excited ....

2010-09-28T21:11:00.000-04:00

... here is the cover proof of the book "Images of America: Harrodsburg" which Anna Armstrong and I are writing ....

What do you think! Personally, I LOVE it, but I'm a little prejudice.

Christmas - With A Smaller Waistline!

2010-09-24T20:59:00.004-04:00

“People accumulate a large proportion of their yearly weight gain over the winter holiday season”

– Susan Z. Yanovski, M.D., Executive Director of National Task Force on the Treatment and Prevention of Obesity.

This is a class a good friend of mine is having and I thought some of you might be interested in it.

The Good News: According to a National Institute of Health study, the average American who begins the season at a healthy weight, gains just over one pound during the holiday season.

The Bad News: There is no bad news - if we move in a healthy direction.

The Best News: The choice is yours, and personalized help stands ready.

Let's get started: Saturday's, October 2nd through November 20th

Jackson Park in Danville, KY - 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m.

Anderson Dean Park in Harrodsburg, KY - 10:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.

Each Saturday we will begin with 15 minutes of insightful tips on:

Self Talk/Self Image

Goal Setting

What is a Healthy Diet?

Understanding Food Labels/Healthy Shopping

Exercise

Stress Reduction

Wellness Assessment

Keeping the Weight Off

We'll finish up with a Walk (up to 45 minutes, by individual ability)

Space is Limited; Registration is Required

Introductory price: Suggested donation $5.00/session

Reply to: peacefulone@localnet.com

Bonus: Those with perfect attendance will receive a gift certificate from Peace & Well-Being for a private Wellness Coaching session. ($25.00 value)

Taught by Harrodsburg resident, Ms. Pat Osborn

(Qualifications: Bachelor of Integrated Studies; Member National Weight Control Registry)

Sugarcult ...

2010-09-14T19:01:00.005-04:00

... one of my favorite "newer" bands, has released a song with my daughter's name - sweet!

CHRISITINE

What's wrong?
I feel so alone again.
The look in your eyes sometimes...
pretending that it's all right.
Make up and move on,
our ways never change
and I can get anyone that I want -
you'll see christine.
And I would do anything if you could believe in me,
but girl-you play those tricks
and make a fool out of me.
That's the way it goes here. can't stand loving you anymore.
I try my best, but I'm back for more.
My heart beat stops every time you leave me.
Hanging on lately...
last night,
she came back into my life.
To play with my head this time.
She's hanging me out for dead
I take it and move on,
our ways will never change
and I can get anyone that I want -
you'll see Christine.
And I would do anything if you could believe in me.
But girl, you play those tricks
and make a fool out of me.
That's the way it goes here.
I can't stand loving you anymore.
I try my best, but i'm back for more.
My heart beat stops every time you leave me.
Hanging on lately...
Take her away, take her away, take her away from this place.
Take her away, take her away, take her away from this place.
What's wrong?
I feel so alone again.
I flunked out a thousand times,
it's making me realize,
that i'm back and better for us.
Our ways will never change
and I can get anyone that I want -
you'll see Christine.
and I would do anything if you could believe in me.
But girl, you play those tricks
and make a fool out of me.
you'll see, Christine.

"WEEDS" is back ......

2010-08-18T08:59:00.007-04:00

..... I know I shouldn't like this show because Nancy is such a lousy mom, but I just can't help it. I missed watching it Monday night when it premiered, so we finally got to watch it last night - WOW!!

Weeds Season 6 Episode 1: "A “Thwack”

*****SPOILER ALERT*****

When we last left Nancy (Mary-Louise Parker) and the gang, Nancy and Shane (Alexander Gould) were standing by the pool watching a dead Pilar (Kate del Castillo floating in the water. It seems that our mild-manner Shane has learned some new tricks from all the violence in his life. He hit Pilar in the head with a croquet mallet (think "The Shining" by Stephen King - the book, not the first movie).

If last night's premier of Season 6 is any indication, WEEDS is off to a rip-roaring start. Nancy looks dazed and confused, but Shane seems unaffected, even though he does have that crazed look in his eye.

In Shane’s eyes, this death “Thwack” to Pilar was necessary on order to protect his family. He overheard Pilar threatening both he and Silas. Pilar told Nancy that the baby was all they needed to "complete a happy family." She threatened Silas and Shane with a car wreck or a plane crash.

So, in typical Nancy fashion, the family is fleeing from another town. They pick up Silas (Hunter Parrish) who is totally unaware of what Shane did. When they get back to Estaban's house, Nancy tells the housekeeper Lupita (Renee Victor) to get everything packed and grab the baby because they are leaving for good.

While Nancy gathers her things, Shane tries to engage Silas in a game of air hockey. When Silas asks Shane what really happened at the house, calmly Shane replies: “I killed Pilar, with a croquet mallet by the pool. She was gonna kill us so I popped the bitch, right in the melon. THWACK! SPLASH! DEAD!” I have never felt more sorry for Silas in all the series - he has always been the "bad" boy, but now he looks in shock as he finds out what his younger brother is capable of.

Lupita, Shane, Silas, Nancy and the baby have all their stuff packed into Nancy's little Prius and they are stuffed in like sardines. This is when Nancy says, "We're goin' need a bigger boat." (Who didn't see that line coming?) Nancy directs Silas - who is driving because Nancy is too drunk - to drive them to Andy's (Justin Kirk), so they can "borrow" his new minivan to make it easier to flee.

Of course, Andy is having troubles of his own because his fiancé Audra (Alanis Morissette), is still being held hostage by a deranged catholic, anti-abortion freak. Nancy, being the bad ass she is, busts in the room and demands the keys to the van. Needless to say, the kidnapper ends up tied to a chair. Nancy now has the keys to Andy’s van and tells Andy that he can come along if he wants to. Poor Andy, he could have had a good life with Audra, but he failed the test (Audra said she'd never take him back and he didn't fight for her). So, Andy goes on the little road trip with the family.

As I said earlier, WEEDS is off to a rip-roaring start ....

Zombies crawl for backpack program

2010-08-16T21:01:00.001-04:00

I am a HUGE supporter of the "Backpack Program" that most schools in Kentucky participate in. In case you don't know what this program is, it basically is a way to make sure underprivileged children/students have food to eat on the weekends when they are home. The children can depend on breakfast and lunch at school, but many children go without food on the weekends. Easy to prepare foods a child is able to fix in the microwave are the what most school are looking for. They fill up backpacks and the children taken them home on Friday and return the backpacks on Monday.

This past weekend, Harrodsburg held its 1st Annual Zombie Crawl to support the Backpack Program. Food items and monetary support came from all over our community. This was sponsored by The Arts Council of Mercer County and Goldie Goldsmith of Studio G. Below are a few of the fun photos from the event.

The 1st Annual "Zombie Crawl" in downtown Harrodsburg on August 13, 2010 was a huge success. Below are some photos from the event:

Tim White - Head Zombie

Tim White, Candace Thomas, and Jennifer Fister

Brody Pitman

Kelly Simpson and Madison Phillips

Kelly Simpson

"Thriller" courtesy of Goldie Goldsmith and Studio G

Kelly Simpson

"It's just a Thriller, Thriller night ..."

"Let's do the Time Warp again ... it's just a step to the left and a jump to the right ..."

Time Warp

Zombie Dog

One of the drummers

The entire cast of Zombies

Care and Feeding of Nightmares

2010-08-11T06:12:00.000-04:00

For anyone who would like to purchase my 2nd chapbook of poetry, "Care and Feeding of Nightmares" - you can email me at:

careandfeedingofnightmares@gmail.com

with your snail-mail address. The books are $5 each plus $2 for shipping and handling. I hope to have PayPal set up on my blog in a few weeks for payments, but currently I can only accept checks or money orders. I will mail out the book on the day I receive your order. You can also buy the books at J. Sampson Antiques on Main Street in Harrodsburg. Thanks to everyone who buys a book!

Votes for Women Celebration...

2010-08-10T13:32:00.002-04:00

...90 Years and Counting!

A great deal of sacrifice was endured by the brave women working for women suffrage. The passage of the 19th amendment was a hard fought battle waged mostly by women … women of various political beliefs, backgrounds, religions, and ethnicities. They worked together, marched together, were jailed and beaten together. More importantly, they won together!

Each of us honors their sacrifice by voting knowledgeably in every election. However, this year we have an opportunity to show visibly the pride and unity of women and the power of our vote!

The 90th Anniversary of women winning the right to vote in America is August 26, 2010, and we must not let this date pass without fanfare, celebration, and meaning. The Kentucky Commission on Women invites you to join in the VOTES for WOMEN Celebration … 90 YEARS and COUNTING! This event will be held on Thursday, August 26th, 2010 at the State Capitol in Frankfort, Kentucky beginning at 10:30 a.m. On this day, let’s demonstrate the pride we take in honoring our foremothers for fighting for the right to have our voices heard through the power of the vote.

Please review the program schedule of events and plan now to bring a carload! Encourage your organization or club members to attend and become a financial co-sponsor!

Whether you are a Democrat, Republican, Independent or, if you haven’t yet registered to vote, you will want to attend this event held at the Frankfort State Capitol to pay tribute to those women who risk their lives so Kentucky women could have a voice. We owe the brave women (and men) who stood up, spoke up and protested the inequality of the silencing of women’s voices. This day is too important to let go by without showing appreciation for what they endured and accomplished.

Please contact our office for questions at 502-564-2611 (ask for Commission on Women).

Hope to see you there… wearing your grandmother’s suffrage hat!

Event Honorary Co-Chairs

Marie Humphries, 1968-1970, Governor Louie Nunn

Marie Abrams, 1971-1974, Governor Wendell Ford

Helen Howard Hughes, 1974-1979, Governor Julian Carroll

Jessica Loving, 1979-1983, Governor John Y. Brown, Jr.

Robin Crigler, 1983-1987, Governor Martha Layne Collins

Phyllis Alexander, 1987-1991, Governor Wallace Wilkinson

Marsha Weinstein, 1992-1996, Governor Brereton Jones

Virginia Woodward, 1996-1998, Governor Paul Patton

Eugenia Potter, 1998-2000, Governor Paul Patton

BetsyNowland-Curry, 2000-2004, Governor Paul Patton

Glenda Woods, 2004-2007, Governor Ernie Fletcher
(Former Executive Directors of the Kentucky Commission on Women)

Loch Ness is Yummy

2010-08-01T01:40:00.000-04:00

As many of you know, my youngest daughter, Christine, turned 18 this week. Even though she is legally an adult know, here is a picture of the special request birthday cake "Sharon's Cakes" made for her:

Of course, one of the first things my brand-new 18 year old did was go to the Mercer Public Library and have her status changed so she could check out VHS tapes and DVDs. What did she come home with? Winnie the Pooh videos ...

Maybe she's not growing as fast as I thought she was. If only I could keep her like this forever ...

I Have a Confession ...

2010-07-29T22:58:00.006-04:00

... this summer I have found a guilty pleasure that is quickly becoming addictive - "Pretty Little Liars." Believe it or not, this scrumptious show started out as a book series I had never heard of (imagine that!). "Pretty Little Liars" is a series of YA books by Sara Shepard. The series follows the lives of four girls — Spencer, Hanna, Aria, and Emily — whose clique falls apart after the disappearance of their leader, Alison. Three years later, they begin receiving text messages from someone using the name "A" who threatens to expose their secrets — including long-hidden ones they thought only Alison knew.

The series debuted on the ABC Family Channel in June and is quickly turning into a must-see, who-done-it type soap opera. It has been called the "Desperate Housewives" for the younger demographic.

Here is a YouTube video of the opening theme - and it's actually a theme song and not just a little jingle like most new shows.

You can believe, I will be finding these books and adding them to my "To Be Read" pile!

HEART is headed back to the top of the charts ...

2010-07-29T22:39:00.004-04:00

... with Red Velvet Car by legendary female rock band, HEART, will be released on Sony Legacy on August 31st in the USA in digital and CD versions. Produced by Ben Mink the 10 song tracklist is: There You Go, WTF, Red Velvet Car, Queen City, Hey You, Wheels, Safronia´s Mark, Death Valley, Sunflower and Sand.

Here's the link for "Red Velvet Car" - I LOVE this song!

1st Trip to Elliott County

2010-07-22T21:21:00.008-04:00

I have permission to post this commentary from a day in the life of a TV news reporter and videographer - courtesy of Kristen Pflum (reporting) and featuring my hubby (videographer). Hilarious!! WLEX is definitely "coverage you can count on!"

1st Trip To Elliott County, Definitely A Memorable One - July 22, 2010

There aren't too many counties in central or eastern Kentucky that I have not visited in my five years at WLEX. They're serious when they say "Coverage You Can Count On," even if it's on the boundaries of our viewing area. We go EVERYWHERE.

Obviously, the big news this week has been the constant rain and the havoc it's wreaking on flood prone areas of eastern Kentucky. Monday and Tuesday it was Pikeville, overnight the northeastern part of the state took a pretty good hit, thus my trip today to Elliott County. I always thought that county looked tiny on a map. I found today, winding down miles and miles of rural roads in a 1-ton satellite truck, it's bigger than it seems.

My photographer Keith and I were trying to work quickly so that we could meet our other crew who was covering a missing woman in neighboring Carter County. Long story short, we drove several miles looking for damage visual enough to show in our 5:30 newscast and in the process of searching came across some interesting things. While I was shooting an "as-live" (as we call it) Keith and I heard something in the water. Sounded like a paddle boat swishing around, but then I heard the "mooooo!." It was a poor cow who had become stranded in the flood waters. He was coming to check out what we were doing...and scared the bageezus out of the reporter in the pink boots (me) in the process!

The stylin' pink rain boots

We were then told to keep going down the water covered road to find the bridge that was washed out over Little Brushy Creek. That's when we were told, "just turn at the big, huge red barn." If you saw the picture I posted, the barn didn't match that description AT ALL, but we found what we were looking for so no biggie...

The RED barn that was actually BLACK

When we were finished, we hit the road again that would take us to Carter County and while on our way, we saw one of the cruelest things I've ever witnessed. We were rounding a corner on one very rural road and came up on a woman who was stopped on the side of the road. As we passed (in a rolling billboard of LEX 18 I might add) the woman opened the back door and shooed a small dog out of the car, slammed the door and peeled off. The dog was so confused that he just sort of did a few circles in the middle of the road and took off into the woods. It might have been one of the more heartbreaking things I've ever witnessed. No doubt I've heard about that, but to see it actually happen was very sad. Needless to say it was a looooong day. I didn't pull into my driveway til around 8:15.

My hubby didn't get home until after 9pm because he had to drive home from Lexington.

Freedom Comes with Age

2010-07-20T10:29:00.003-04:00

I received this email from a friend and it is so perfect, I had to pass it on. The comments in ( ) are my own personal observations.

Freedom Comes With Age
Author Unknown

I have seen too many dear friends and family leave this world too soon; before they understood the great freedom that comes with aging.

Whose business is it if I choose to read or play on the computer (or read or write) until 4 AM and sleep until noon (doesn't happen in my world)? I will dance with myself to those wonderful tunes of the 60 &70s (mostly 80s), and if I, at the same time, wish to weep over a lost love .... I will.

I will walk the beach in a swim suit that is stretched over a bulging body, and will dive into the waves with abandon if I choose to, despite the pitying glances from the jet set.

They, too, will get old.

I know I am sometimes forgetful. But there again, some of life is just as well forgotten. And I eventually remember the important things.

Sure, over the years my heart has been broken. How can your heart not break when you lose a loved one, or when a child suffers, or even when somebody's beloved pet gets hit by a car? But broken hearts are what give us strength and understanding and compassion. A heart never broken is pristine and sterile and will never know the joy of being imperfect.

I am so blessed to have lived long enough to have my hair turning gray, and to have my youthful laughs be forever etched into deep grooves on my face.

So many have never laughed, and so many have died before their hair could turn silver.

As you get older, it is easier to be positive. You care less about what other people think (isn't that the truth!). I don't question myself anymore (at least not as much).

I've even earned the right to be wrong.

So, to answer your question, I'm (learning to) like being old. It has set me free. I like the person I have become and I am not going to live forever, but while I am still here, I will not waste time lamenting what could have been, or worrying about what will be. And I shall eat dessert every single day(if I feel like it).

MAY OUR FRIENDSHIP NEVER COME APART ESPECIALLY WHEN IT'S STRAIGHT FROM THE HEART!

Peace & Well-Being Seminar

2010-07-19T17:54:00.004-04:00

Introducing...
Peace & Well-Being

Free Seminars this Sunday July 25th, 2010
by Ms. Pat Osborn

• Healthy Diet, from 2 to 3p.m.
• Exercise Basics, from 3 to 4 p.m.
• Goal Setting, from 4 to 5 p.m.

Harrodsburg, KY * Seating is Limited * $25 value, each

Reserve your spot in one or more classes:

peacefulone@localnet.com or 859-734-6839

My Tadpole

2010-07-05T11:10:00.001-04:00

New pictures of my little tadpole ...

She truly is my little tadpole

First bath after her cord fell off

How come there's no milk here?

Tadpole swallowed by a frog!

Devon Mikayla and her dad, Mike

Baby Mohawk!

Come on, Mom - get this bow out of my hair!

Proud Graduate

2010-05-31T12:28:00.001-04:00

Christine Nicole Rightmyer and her daddy, Keith - graduation night, May 28, 2010

It is hard for me to believe I no longer have a child in high school - where did the years go? My baby - Christine - graduated this past Friday night, with High Honors. To say we are proud of her would be an understatement.

Christine will now have the summer off before packing up to head to Berea College this fall. In case you've forgotten, Christine was awarded a full four-year academic scholarship to Berea. I'm trying very hard not to think about her leaving us, but I am going to miss her so much.

On the grandbaby front - my first grandchild is due any day now. My middle daughter - Marie - has been having some irregular contractions, so I'm hopeful it will be very soon, for her sake. Her due date is June 6th.

At this point in my life, I am still grieving the loss of my mother last week, so my blog posts may be very spotty for the next few weeks/months. In case I don't post again soon, I hope everyone has a fun, healthy, happy summer.

God bless you all ...

Bad News ...

2010-05-24T11:22:00.000-04:00

... I'm sorry for being so out of touch, but I have some bad news to pass on to all my bloggy friends.

My mom passed away Sunday evening about 6pm. She was only 65 yo, but she had been in poor health for at least the past 6 months. We tried a few things in CCU to try and wake up her kidneys and other organs back up, but when we realized they weren't working, daddy made the decision - the right decision and mom's wishes - to turn all the machines off. She was in no pain and thankfully went peacefully.

Please keep my family in your prayers ...

2010-05-19T11:23:00.001-04:00

The wonders of Plantain salve: http://ping.fm/y9y64

2010-05-18T10:33:00.001-04:00

Wildflower of the week - Yellow Sweet Clover: http://ping.fm/qgUsg

2010-05-17T10:46:00.001-04:00

Herb of the week - Basil: http://ping.fm/ETB6x

2010-05-14T10:15:00.001-04:00

Food Friday: http://ping.fm/OQglV

2010-05-14T10:09:00.001-04:00

Food Friday: http://ping.fm/a7B1o

2010-05-12T09:51:00.001-04:00

The Bluegrass is having a Blackberry Winter: http://ping.fm/9eBMv

2010-05-11T11:39:00.001-04:00

What's blooming around the Bluegrass? Mock Orange Shrubs: http://ping.fm/nRB3B

2010-05-11T10:46:00.001-04:00

Learn more about Kentucky author, Ann H. Gabhart: http://ping.fm/O0WBH

2010-05-10T10:35:00.001-04:00

Growing upside down tomatoes: http://ping.fm/0RlSM

2010-05-04T09:59:00.001-04:00

What's growing in the Bluegrass herb garden? Dill: http://ping.fm/zW3zr

2010-05-04T08:56:00.001-04:00

Introducting Kentucky author, Karen L. Newman: http://ping.fm/5nV2t

2010-05-03T10:58:00.001-04:00

Readings and other literary events this week in the Bluegrass: http://ping.fm/ePscQ

2010-05-03T09:43:00.001-04:00

Make new plants for your garden by taking cuttings from existing plants: http://ping.fm/kjSaQ

2010-04-30T09:30:00.001-04:00

Food Friday - this week, 2 different Stuffed Cabbage Rolls recipes: http://ping.fm/gnL2h

2010-04-29T10:32:00.001-04:00

You can't beat the magic of Willow Water to give you success with rooting new cuttings or transplanting annuals: http://ping.fm/Jrb4C

2010-04-28T09:52:00.001-04:00

Peonies are starting to bud and flower all over the Bluegrass: http://ping.fm/JLclR

2010-04-27T11:03:00.001-04:00

Check out The Community of Mercer County Writers: http://ping.fm/Y6apv

2010-04-27T09:59:00.001-04:00

Beware of invasive Amur Honeysuckle: http://ping.fm/aY7Zd

2010-04-26T10:11:00.001-04:00

What's blooming around the Bluegrass? Black Locust - and nothing beats the fragrance: http://ping.fm/wTtrf

2010-04-25T10:59:00.001-04:00

Check out "The Vagina Monologues" tonight at Natasha's Cafe in Lexington: http://ping.fm/OninJ

2010-04-24T17:16:00.001-04:00

Mercer County Senior High Greenhouse will open to the public on Wednesday, April 28th: http://ping.fm/6tqqS

2010-04-23T08:46:00.001-04:00

Food Friday - this week, Creamy Spinach Dip: http://ping.fm/gwJFF

2010-04-23T08:44:00.001-04:00

Happy Kentucky Writers' Day!!: http://ping.fm/b87lm

2010-04-21T18:39:00.001-04:00

Join Georgia Green Stamper tomorrow in Erlanger, Kentucky: http://ping.fm/wFoXE

2010-04-21T17:54:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow is the 40th anniversary of Earth Day: http://ping.fm/0XDzY

2010-04-21T12:19:00.001-04:00

"Hottest Bloggers" is a workshop at the Carnegie Center this weekend in Lexington: http://ping.fm/jLdx7

Way Back Wednesday - Dirty Dancing

2010-04-21T10:50:00.001-04:00

Dirty Dancing is a 1987 Academy Award winning romance film, written by Eleanor Bergstein and directed by Emile Ardolino. The film features Jennifer Grey (pre-nose job), Patrick Swayze, Cynthia Rhodes, and Jerry Orbach.

The movie takes place in 1963 and is the story of a teenaged girl and her relationship with an older dance instructor during a family summer vacation at the Kellerman Resort in the Catskill Mountains. Frances "Baby" Houseman (Grey) is swept off her feet by the sexy dance instructor, Johnny Castle (Swayze). Although her father forbids her to have anything to do with Johnny, Baby finds herself falling madly in love.

Some of my favorite scences include: Baby practicing her dance moves on the boardwalk, Johnny and Baby dancing on the log and in the lake, and of course, the last dance of the movie.

Favorite quotes from Dirty Dancing:

"Oh, come on, ladies. God wouldn't have given you maracas if He didn't want you to shake 'em."

"Look, spaghetti arms. This is my dance space. This is your dance space. I don't go into yours, you don't go into mine. You gotta hold the frame."

" I carried a watermelon."

"God, I'm so sick of this rain. Remind me not to take my honeymoon at Niagara Falls."

And the infamous: "Nobody puts Baby in a corner."

Last dance of the movie. (Photo from movie is copyrighted)

Dirty Dancing won an Academy Award for Best Song - "(I've Had) The Time of My Life" performed by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes; composed by Franke Previte, John deNicola, and Donald Markowitz. Of course, my favorite song of the movie is "Hungry Eyes" performed by Eric Carmen; composed by Franke Previte and John deNicola .

2010-04-21T09:23:00.001-04:00

Want a pretty, eco-friendly way to deal with soggy areas in your lawn? Try planting a Rain Garden: http://ping.fm/2DaHX

2010-04-20T09:43:00.001-04:00

Wisteria is blooming all over the Bluegrass: http://ping.fm/dO4IK

2010-04-19T09:39:00.001-04:00

One of my favorite "weeds" in the lawn - Plantain is great for bug bites, burns and other skin irritations: http://ping.fm/br9nN

2010-04-16T10:10:00.001-04:00

Reforest the Bluegrass at Veterans Park in Lexington: http://ping.fm/QW8gY

2010-04-16T09:34:00.001-04:00

Check out Raven Run Nature Sanctuary in Lexington: http://ping.fm/gHZSt

2010-04-16T09:11:00.001-04:00

This week's Food Friday features Dandelions - Dandelion Jelly and Dandelion Salad: http://ping.fm/QbSwd

2010-04-15T10:02:00.001-04:00

Composting part #2 - the 3 essential ingredients for a healthy compost heap: http://ping.fm/Kc8lZ

Way Back Wednesday - Godspell

2010-04-14T09:44:00.005-04:00

Godspell was released in 1973 and is the film adaptation of the Off-Broadway musical Godspell created by John-Michael Tebelak. Set in modern New York City, it was filmed in New York in the fall of 1972.

This film stars Victor Garber as Jesus and David Haskell as John the Baptist/Judas.

A modern-day version of the gospels, opening with John the Baptist calling a group of young New Yorkers from their workaday lives to follow and learn from Jesus. They form a roving acting troupe that enacts the parables through song and dance, comedy, and mime. Jesus' ministry ends with a last supper, his Crucifixion in a junkyard, and, the following morning, his body being carried aloft by his apostles back into the world of the living on the streets of New York.

Godspell has a kind of simplicity and sweetness that are often the disguises of fierce anti-intellectualism. Jesus is portrayed as a tireless hoofer and a most engaging minstrel man. One of the finest production numbers is the ironic "All for the Best," which Jesus and John the Baptist sing and dance all over New York, highlighted by a marvelous soft-shoe done in front of the Bulova Watch sign overlooking Times Square.

I think my favorite character in the movie is a lonely girl named Robin - played by Robin Lamont - a beautiful honey blonde, who sings "Day by Day," and of several hugely funny parables acted out by virtually the entire company. I loved the wacky costume she wore and I actually dressed up like her for Halloween when I was 12 years old. "Day by Day" is also my favorite musical number of the movie.

"Day by day,
Day by day.
Oh Dear Lord
Three things I pray.
To see thee more clearly,
Love thee more dearly,
Follow thee more nearly,
Day by day ...
Day by day by day by day..."

Godspell is one of my favorite movies from my youth. I like its music, its drive and its determination; it holds up to today's standards of musical performances. Not only did it have a wonderful message, but it helped to to understand more of the teachings I learned in Sunday School.

2010-04-14T08:33:00.001-04:00

Don't let Chickweed in the lawn get you down: http://ping.fm/qOn4b

2010-04-13T09:44:00.001-04:00

Wondering why lawns across the Bluegrass are suddenly turning purple? Check it out: http://ping.fm/GVQrv

2010-04-09T09:35:00.001-04:00

Check out these weekend gardening events around the Bluegrass: http://ping.fm/jKjhs

2010-04-09T08:44:00.001-04:00

Food Friday is back! This week try a delicious "Asparagus & Chicken Rotini: http://ping.fm/M14UE

Way Back Wednesday - I'll Be There

2010-04-07T01:35:00.000-04:00

To celebrate my love of Craig Ferguson, I'm highlighting one of his movies ...

... I'll Be There is a 2003 British comedy-drama film directed and co-written by Craig Ferguson, who, in his directorial debut, also stars in the film with singer Charlotte Church in her film debut.

A washed-up 80's pop star suddenly has a new direction in life when he discovers that he has a teenage daughter, Olivia, in Cardiff, Wales. The result of a weekend affair he had back at the height of his fame produced Olivia, a newspaper delivery girl for the South Wales Echo. He arrives in the small Welsh town, unsettling the life of his ex-lover while inspiring his newfound daughter to follow in his footsteps with a musical career of her own, against the wishes of her mother.

Favorite quotes:

Dr. Bridget: You drove your motorcycle through a second floor window in your house. Would you call that the act of a sane man?
Paul Kerr: Hey! I'm a rock star. I've driven cars into swimming pools and thrown television sets out of windows. It's part of the job!

Paul Kerr: Be reasonable, why would I try to kill myself? I'm rich and I'm Scottish, it doesn't get better than that.

Paul Kerr: I'm not mad, I'm just creative!

Paul Kerr: I just think its amazing that I bought a house so close to here. It's like Kermit!
Rebecca Edmonds: You mean kismet, Kermit's a frog you idiot!

Olivia Edmonds: Can I have twenty pounds please Mum?
Rebecca Edmonds: Why?
Olivia Edmonds: Well, I need currency to have a viable existence in a capitalist society.
Gordano: Ask a stupid question...

2010-03-24T10:12:00.001-04:00

Look what's happening at the Lexington Arboretum: http://ping.fm/oYJ7N

Way Back Wednesday - Corpse Bride

2010-03-24T09:35:00.002-04:00

Corpse Bride is a 2005 musical "stop-motion-animation" film directed by Tim Burton. It is set in a fictional Victorian era village in Britain and was nominated for Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards.

Johnny Depp was the voice of Victor Van Dort and Helena Bonham Carter voiced Emily (the Corspe Bride). When a shy young Victor fails to recite his vows properly at his wedding rehersal to a complete stranger Victoria Everglott (voiced by Emily Watson), he flees to practice his vows in the woods.

But in typical Burton fashion, when Victor finally gets his vows correct, he accidently places the ring on the finger of the Corpse Bride and ends up in the afterlife known as the "land of the dead."

While Victor tries desperatly to get home, he finds out that his wife-to-be will be marrying someone else to save her family from the poor house. The man she is being forced to marry is the evil Lord Barkiss, who is only after Victoria for her money (not knowing that she and her family are now completely broke). When Victor and the rest of the dead finally get to the land of the living, a shocking discovery is made which reveals how the Corpse Bride died.

This is a charming comedy with interesting twists and turns.

Favorite quotes:

Victoria Everglot: Hildegard, what if Victor and I don't like each other?
Maudeline Everglot: Hmpf! As if that has anything to do with marriage. Do you suppose your father and I "like" each other?
Victoria Everglot: Surely you must, a little.
Maudeline Everglot, Finnis Everglot: Of course not!

Victor Van Dort: I want some questions! Now!
General Bonesapart: Answers... I think you mean answers.
Victor Van Dort: Thank you, yes, answers. I need answers.

The Corpse Bride: Isn't the view beautiful? It takes my breath away. Well, it would if I had any.

[Bonejangles creeps up behind Finnis; his eye falls into Finnis' bowl]
Finnis Everglot: There's an eye in me soup.

The Corpse Bride: [about Victor's dead dog, Scraps] What a cutie.
Victor Van Dort: You should have seen him with fur.

[Victor has snuck away from the Corpse Bride to find Victoria and listens to the arguing Everglots]
Finnis Everglot: If ever I see that Van Dort boy, I'll strangle him with my bare hands!
Maudeline Everglot: Your hands are too fat, and his neck is too thin. You'll have to use a rope.

Victor Van Dort: I've got a... I've got a dwarf, and I'm not afraid to use him!

The Corpse Bride: [about Victor] He's not my boyfriend, he's my husband.

S'more make the world go 'round

2010-03-22T11:33:00.001-04:00

Saturday night, while most people were glued to big-screen televisions watching the Wildcats play, my family and I were gathered around a backyard bonfire roasting marshmallows for s’mores. Yummy!

With our hurried and hectic lives, we sometimes feel like we are moving on three separate tracks and it’s hard to find the occasional intersections. I currently work two part time jobs that keep me away from home, plus I’m working on a book project that takes many hours a day of my “home time.” My hubby works long hours and has a long commute daily from Lexington, so it’s usually late when he finally gets home. My youngest is still plugging away at homework while trying to finish up scholarship applications for college.

Meals at our house are always a late night affair and it is not unusual for us to sit down to supper at 8pm most weeknights. Granted, Christine and I could always eat earlier, but I hate cooking early and then having to warm it up for hubby – after a hard day of work, the least I can do is offer him a hot meal. So, mealtimes are late, but it is the one time of day when we are all three together. We talk about our day – many times, it’s complain about our day – and discuss what we have to do throughout the week. Who is going to be late on which nights, who will be cooking supper, are there any special meetings – these are just a few of the questions we have for each other at our night meals.

Even though you may feel your family is running on different tracks, make time for the little things throughout the week. It doesn’t have to be a big celebration or even a planned event, sometimes just an impromptu bonfire and s’mores is all it takes to recharge your family battery.

2010-03-22T11:19:00.001-04:00

Bearded Iris are starting to come up all across the Bluegrass: http://ping.fm/JNMwg

2010-03-18T12:02:00.001-04:00

Bring spring into your home: http://ping.fm/2uIIs

Way Back Wednesday - Edward Scissorhands

2010-03-17T09:34:00.003-04:00

Edward Scissorhands is a 1990 fantasy film directed by Tim Burton and starring Johnny Depp. This is a suburban fairy tale of an artificial man named Edward (Johnny Depp), who is an unfinished creation with scissors for hands. Edward is taken in by a suburban family and falls in love with their teenage daughter.

An Avon lady, Peg Boggs (Dianne Wiest), discovers the half-finished experiment, Edward, of a mad scientist (Vincent Price) living in the neighborhood's old abandoned castle. The scientist died before replacing Edward's large shears with real hands. When Peg attempts to bring Edward into her suburban world, to live with her husband (Alan Arkin) and daughter, Kim (Winona Ryder), her gossipy neighbors have a field day.

Edward's hands are dangerous, yet capable of creating beautiful topiaries from ordinary garden shrubbery. This film is full of awkward, funny, and poignant situations and is a story about tolerance, difference, and creativity as much as it is a story of a young man's coming of age.

Favorite quotes:

Kim: Hold me.
Edward: I can't.

Peg Boggs: The light concealing cream goes on first. Then you blend, and blend, and blend. Blending is the secret.

Jim: [after seeing Edward accidentally cut Kim] Hey! Now you've done it!
Kim: It was just a scratch Jim, really!
Peg Boggs: What's going on?
Jim: Call a doctor, he skewered Kim!
Kim: He didn't skewer me!

Bill: Sweetheart, you can't buy the necessities of life with cookies.

Jim: Forget about holding her hand, man. Think about the damage he could do to other places.

Bill: Soup's on!
Edward: I thought this was shish kabob.

Jim: I'd give my left nut to see that again.

Edward: Goodbye.
[Kim kisses Edward]
Kim: I love you.

Kim: You see, before he came down here, it never snowed. And afterwards, it did. If he weren't up there now... I don't think it would be snowing. Sometimes you can still catch me dancing in it.

2010-03-15T11:18:00.001-04:00

Daffodils are spring up all over the Bluegrass: http://ping.fm/4Ccyt

Eclipse

2010-03-11T13:10:00.002-05:00

It's finally here - the trailer for ECLIPSE - based on the 3rd book in Stephenie Meyer's TWILIGHT series. The movie opens June 30, 2010.

Spammers, Hackers and Thieves ... Oh My

2010-03-11T09:08:00.003-05:00

What perverse pleasure do some people get out of hacking into a stranger's Internet account and wrecking havoc?? I guess some people just don't have enough to do, or else they are just sick, cynical bastards.

Case in point, I have been an obsessive blogger for over 2 years now and I love reading comment that others leave me. But in recent months I've had to install the "comment moderation" feature in order to screen comments from spammers and hackers. I hated having to do this because I find it aggravating when comments are moderated on other blogs I visit - now I know why other blogs use it!

There are 2 main themes for these spammers and hackers - porn or pharmaceuticals. No, I don't care if your girlfriend of 2 years cheated on you and you're getting your revenge by posting her nude photos. No, I don't want to buy your cheap, generic Cialias or Viagra. No, I don't want to open your YouTube link because I've learned the hard way this is how you spread your infection. And no, I don't understand your foreign language, so if it's not in English, I'm not even going to think about opening you or clicking on you.

Now this disease has spread to social networks and it is driving me crazy. I'm a huge Facebook user, but it seems like every day I'm getting messages from my "friends" that turn out to be spammers or hackers waiting to infection my computer or steal my private information. It's sickening and I'm getting very fed up!

People - get a life! And leave other people's lives alone!!

2010-03-10T10:43:00.001-05:00

Spring time means - Asparagus: http://ping.fm/HJAeq

Burton in Wonderland

2010-03-08T11:10:00.001-05:00

(Photo copyright Disney Productions)

My hubby and youngest daughter, Christine, have a weekend tradition that I occasionally join in on. They are both HUGE movie buffs and plan their weekends around what movie they want to go see. I enjoy movies, too, but I really hate to be in crowded places, so it has to be a special movie to get me out of the house.
Tim Burton’s "Alice in Wonderland" was the movie that got me out of the house this weekend.

I have been an avid Burton fan since the short film, "Frankenweenie." Released in 1984, this was the first in a long-line of Burton movies I have enjoyed. Others include "Beetlejuice," "Edward Scissorhands," "The Nightmare Before Christmas," "Plant of the Apes," and "Corspe Bride."

There has been talk of Burton remaking "Frankenweenie" into a full-length movie, which I think would be cool. However, the project I’m most looking forward to is next year’s "Dark Shadows." "Dark Shadows" is one of my favorite shows, and even after being off the air for almost 40 years, I never get tired of watching the shows on DVD.

Burton is also going to take on the classic story of "Sleeping Beauty;" only he will be taking a different angle. He wants to tell the back-story of Sleeping Beauty from the view point of Maleficent, the Witch/Dragon in the story. Should be interesting.

So, as my hubby and daughter plan what movie they will see this coming weekend, I'll catch up on my writing and think long and hard about the next movie I want to go see.

2010-03-08T10:34:00.001-05:00

Crocus herald in spring: http://ping.fm/3yq88

Burton in Wonderland

2010-03-05T09:21:00.002-05:00

Need I say more ... ??

2010-03-03T10:54:00.001-05:00

Part #4 of building a backyard wildlife habitat: http://ping.fm/TSLiZ

Way Back Wednesday - Alice in Wonderland

2010-03-03T01:48:00.000-05:00

Alice in Wonderland is one of my favorite books - I even did my college thesis on Alice from Alice' Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass. With the highly anticipated release of Tim Burton's version of Alice on Friday and my youngest daughter suggestions of Disney movies for Way Back Wednesday, I'm highlighting the Disney version of Alice in Wonderland.

Alice in Wonderland is an animated movie produced by Walt Disney, first released in 1951. Based on Lewis Carroll's Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking-Glass, this film was made under the supervision of Walt Disney himself and is often regarded as some of the finest work in Disney studio history.

Most of you know the plot of this movie: Alice is resting on the bank of a river, listening to her older sister read aloud. Alice nods off to sleep and dreams of living in a world of nonsense. The next thing you know, she is following a talking white rabbit down a rabbit hole and ends up in the nonsense world of Wonderland.

Once in Wonderland, Alice meets all types of characters: the Caterpillar, the DoDo bird, Tweedledee and Tweedledum (who are actually in the book Through the Looking Glass), the Cheshire Cat, the Mad Hatter, the March Hare and the Red Queen, just to name a few.

Favorite quotes from the movie:

Caterpillar: Who... are... you?
Alice: Why, I hardly know, sir. I've changed so much since this morning, you see...
Caterpillar: No, I do not C, explain yourself.
Alice: I'm afraid I can't explain myself, you see, because I'm not myself, you know.
Caterpillar: I do not know.
Alice: I can't put it any more clearly, sir, because it isn't clear to me.

Alice: But I don't want to go among mad people.
Cheshire Cat: Oh, you can't help that. Most everyone's mad here.
[laughs maniacally; starts to disappear]
Cheshire Cat: You may have noticed that I'm not all there myself.

Tweedle Dum: If you think we're waxworks, you ought to pay, you know.
Tweedle Dee: Contrarywise, if you think we're alive you ought to speak to us.
Tweedle Dee, Tweedle Dum: That's logic.

Alice: Oh, pooh. I'm not afraid of you. Why, you're nothing but a pack of cards.

Alice: Curiouser and curiouser

Alice: I'm sorry I interrupted your birthday party. Thank you.
March Hare: Birthday? My dear child, this is NOT a birthday party.
Mad Hatter: Of course not. This is an unbirthday party.

Queen of Hearts: I warn you dear child, if I lose my temper, you lose your head. Understand?

The Rose: Just what species or, shall we say, genus are you, my dear?
Alice: Well, I guess you would call me... genus, humanus... Alice.
Daisy: Ever see an alice with a blossom like that?
Orchid: Come to think of it, did you ever see an alice?

Where Forth Are Thou, Spring?

2010-03-01T09:06:00.002-05:00

Today is supposed to be the first day of meteorological spring, but in essence, spring won’t really be here until March 20th. Spring is always a time of renewal, and after autumn, is my favorite season.

I’ve always been a cold-natured person, but the older I get, the more I’m growing to dislike cold weather. I could never understand why all my grandparents complained about the winter months. I thought playing in the snow and being out in the cold, frigid air was great. I hated to wear a hat or gloves or a scarf – they just got in the way of my fun.

As I’ve gotten older, the cold weather makes my joints ache. I have never had any problems with knee pain until this winter. If I sit too long, I feel like I’m 100 years old when I stand up. It takes me a few minutes to get everything moving again. At night when I’m trying to sleep is the hardest part. The big joints are what hurt the most – knees, elbows and spine. Ben Gay and ibuprofen have become my friends.

Hurry up spring – not only am I ready to start working in the garden, but I’m ready for my joints to loosen up and quit hurting. I keep telling my kids, I’m too young to hurt so bad!

Way Back Wednesday - Mulan

2010-02-24T01:10:00.000-05:00

Mulan is a 1998 Walt Disney animated film released in June 1998. It is the 36th animated feature in the Walt Disney Animated Classics - and a part of the Disney Renaissance - and is one of Christine's top 10 favorite Disney movies.

This movie is based on the Chinese legend of Hua Mulan, who was a heroine who joined an all-male army in the famous Chinese poem "The Ballad of Mulan." The movie is directed by Tony Bancroft and Barry Cook, with the story by Robert D. San Souci and Rita Hsiao.

The Fa family has only one child - Mulan. When this "tomboy" fails to fulfill a Chinese girl's traditional duty as desirable bride, Mulan feels she has disgraced her family. When the empire mobilizes a man from every family to fight the invading Huns, Mulan fears her father, an honorable veteran, is no longer up to fighting and joins in his place, disguising herself as the fictitious son, Fa Ping.

She prays to her family's ancestors for protection and luck before leaving as a man in her father's armor with her family's horse. The ancestors awake and decide to send Mushu, a little dishonored dragon to aid Mulan in her quest. Mulan is assigned to general Li, son captain Fa Li's training unit, and weeks later, she and the other troopers have survived the training camp and are on the way north to stop the huns. After being spotted and pursued by the enemies, an impass situation in the mountains forces Mulan to come up with an idea. But then, her real gender will no longer be a secret. She decides to risk everything in order to save China.

This is such a great movie, and Mulan is a wonderful female role model. Strong, independent, with a streak of defiance, she risks everything to make her family proud and to protect her treasured homeland.

Favorite quotes:

Mulan: My ancestors sent a little lizard to help me?
Mushu: Hey! Dragon. *Dragon*, not lizard. I don't do that tongue thing.

Fa Li: I should have prayed to the ancestors for luck.
Grandmother Fa: How lucky can they be? They're dead.

Mushu: Make a note of this. Dishonor on you, dishonor on your cow, dis...
[Mulan covers his mouth with her hand]
Mulan: Stop. I'm sorry. I'm sorry. I'm just nervous. I've never done this before.

Mushu: My little baby, off to destroy people.

Mushu: I'm doomed! And all 'cause Miss Man decides to take her little drag show on the road.

Mulan: Just because I look like a man doesn't mean I have to smell like one.

The Emperor of China: The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all.
Shang: Sir?
The Emperor of China: You don't meet a girl like that every dynasty.

Yao: I'm gonna hit you so hard, it'll make your ancestors dizzy.

Mushu: My little baby's all grown up and...
Mushu: [sniffle] ... and savin' China. You have a tissue?

Kentucky Weather

2010-02-22T11:16:00.002-05:00

Kentucky weather - you’ve got to love it 'cause you can't change it! Everyone who lives in our beautiful state will understand when I talk about my love-hate relationship with our weather. On the one hand, over two-thirds of the time, the weather is perfect—just the way I like it. It is that last third of the time that I begin to wonder if waiting out the nasty weather in favor of those special times I enjoy is really worth it. You be the judge.

On Saturday, I went to the movies with my family. I had dressed in jeans and a long sleeve shirt and I felt overdressed as I rolled the car window down a crack. By the time the movie was over, I had rolled up the sleeves of my shirt and was still sweating.

On Sunday, I turned off the heat in the house and opened the windows in the living room and bathroom, trying to catch that first spring breeze. The birds were chirping, the sun was shining and it was just the most perfect day of this New Year.

Now today, the skies are grey and overcast, with periodic rain showers. These are the kinds of days when I enjoy reading or writing. I like to let my imagination roam free and not have to worry about the ordinary stresses of the day. I can let my mind follow down the path of another author’s imagination, or I can explore the depths of my own mind's eye and capture it in words.

The problem with our changing Kentucky weather is that the changes in temperature seem to correlate to the temperaments of family and friends. I’m usually more out-going and friendly on a bright sunny day, but on a dark overcast day, I’m usually lost in my own head and I don’t notice anyone or anything around me.

Of course, the weather is again calling for snow flurries tomorrow, so I know spring is not really here. But I have seen the glorious sights of spring and I do know Mother Nature will send it back to us again soon. Until then, I guess I’ll have to enjoy the weather we’ve been given today and try not to complain – at least not too loudly.

2010-02-22T11:03:00.001-05:00

Backyard wildlife habitat - part #3 - bird shelters: http://ping.fm/w52r9

Olympic Late Nights

2010-02-19T09:13:00.008-05:00

This middle-aged woman is suffering from a severe case of not-enough-sleep vs. chronic insomnia. While it is true I only get about 4 to 5 hours of "good" sleep each night, this week has been much worse - and I blame it all on the Olympics.

The entire family has been staying up until midnight the past few nights, trying to soak in all the snowboarding, down hilling and figure skating we can. Of course, the big event from last night was reigning world champion figure skater - Evan Lysacek - winning GOLD!! This is the United States' first Olympic men's figure skating title in 22 years! He was awesome! And as my daughter continually told me, he looks like Christian Bale, from The Dark Knight (Batman).

Another favorite of Christine's was Daisuke Takahashi from Japan - he gave his country their first ever Olympic men's podium finish taking BRONZE after the free skate final. Defending champion Yevgeny Plushenko of Russia had to settle for SILVER and although he is a "severe" looking competitor, you have to admit there is someone compelling about watching him on the ice.

One of my favorite events was the men's halfpipe. Snowboarding superstar and defending champion Shaun White won the Olympic men's halfpipe GOLD Wednesday, clenching the gold on his first run. Then for an encore presentation, he included his secret, gravity-defying Double McTwist 1260 in his victory run. You've got to admit, the boy's got style!!

I have the utmost respect and awe for Lindsay Vonn and her fantastic skiing skills, but I'm a little tired of hearing about her "injury." From listening to all the other competitors from throughout the different sports disciplines, everyone has injuries they have to work through. I can't help but think she keeps talking about her injury so that in case she doesn't live up to her hype, she has a readily available excuse. However, it was awesome when she won the women's downhill GOLD on Wednesday. I really hope her wipeout last night in the Alpine Skiing doesn't effect her performance in the upcoming Super G Combo. But if it does, the break away skier, in my opinion, is Julia Mancuso with her back-to-back SILVER medals.

And what about Shani Davis?? He became the first man to win back-to-back Olympic 1,000-metre speedskating GOLD!! He is one fast skater! I can't wait to see him in his next few races, especially the 5,000 meters.

Which brings up to Christine's favorite winter athlete, Apolo Ohno - after winning medal #6 in his first race here - SILVER - he is poised to pass fellow six-time medalist Bonnie Blair as the most decorated U.S. Winter Olympian. Ohno has three more chances to medal in Vancouver, starting with Saturday's 1,000 meters. The 500 meters and 5,000-meter relay — the U.S. men have qualified for the final — are next week.

With another full week of Winter Olympic Competitions, I'm afraid my increased lack of sleep is not going to end anytime soon, although, maybe I'll be able to catch some "power naps" over the weekend.

USA - USA - USA - USA - USA !!!!!

Speaking Out

2010-02-11T20:16:00.001-05:00

Here is the cover for the newest book by Mercer County writers - SPEAKING OUT Volume 2 - edited by Roni Gilpin and Betty Dean.

I am happy to say I have several poems and one essay featured in this new collection. My poem - "See Me" - is the first poem in the book - I was told it sets the tone for the entire book.

SPEAKING OUT will be available within the next few weeks, so I'll keep everyone updated on when and where it can be purchased.

Way Back Wednesday - Dumbo

2010-02-10T10:09:00.001-05:00

Dumbo is a 1941 animated film produced by Walt Disney and released in October 1941, by RKO Radio Pictures. This is the 4th film in the Walt Disney Animated Classics series. Dumbo was still the most financially successful Disney film of the 1940s.

Believe it or not, Dumbo was made to recoup the box office losses of Fantasia (which is one of my family's favorite films). Dumbo is considered to be one of Disney's finest films and is generally regarded as a classic of animation. At 64 minutes, it is also one of Disney's shortest animated features.

The main character is Jumbo Jr., a very small elephant with huge ears who is cruelly nicknamed Dumbo. He is ridiculed for his big ears, but in fact he is capable of flying by using his ears as wings. Throughout most of the film, his only true friend, aside from his mother, is the mouse, Timothy — a relationship parodying the stereotypical animosity between mice and elephants.

The film has been criticized as being racist. The crow characters in the film are seen as African-American stereotypes and although the leader crow was originally named "Jim Crow" for script purposes, and the name stuck. The other crows are all voiced by African-American actors, all members of the Hall Johnson Choir.

Favorite quotes:

[the elephants think that Dumbo with his big ears is the reason Mrs. Jumbo has been locked up]
Timothy Q. Mouse: What's the matter with his ears? I don't see nothin' wrong with 'em. I think they're cute.

Crow #1: Did you ever see an elephant fly?
Crow #2: Well, I've seen a horse fly.
Crow #3: Ah, I've seen a dragon fly.
Crow #4: Hee-hee. I've seen a house fly.

Clown: Hey, be careful. Don't hurt the little guy.
Skinny: Aw, c'mon. Elephants ain't got no feelings.
Clown #2: No, they're made of rubber.

Prissy: Girls, girls! Listen! Have I got a trunk full of dirt.

Elephant Matriarch: Take your foot out of my eye... clumsy ox!

"When I See An Elephant Fly"

I saw a peanut stand, heard a rubber band,
I saw a needle that winked its eye.
But I think I will have seen everything
When I see an elephant fly.

I saw a front porch swing, heard a diamond ring,
I saw a polka-dot railroad tie.
But I think I will have seen everything
when I see an elephant fly.

I seen a clothes horse, he r'ar up and buck
And they tell me that a man made a vegetable truck
I didn't see that, I only heard
But just to be sociable I'll take your word

I heard a fireside chat, I saw a baseball bat
And I just laughed till I thought I'd die
But I'd be done see'n about everything
when I see an elephant fly.

The WHO Rock the Superbowl

2010-02-08T13:43:00.003-05:00

Photo copyright Rolling Stone

Many of you may know I am not a sports fan, so the only reason I record the Superbowl is to watch the commericals and the halftime show. This year THE WHO rocked the Superbowl to mixed reviews.

Here's what Rolling Stone had to say:

Pete Townshend got things started by furiously strumming an acoustic guitar as Roger Daltrey grabbed the mike and began “Pinball Wizard” while pyro erupted from the center of the field, which was covered in a giant circular display of lights rather than filled with fans, as per tradition.

This morning I've heard the complaints: they're too old to play live, they were lip syncing, too much of a light show, and so on and so on. Personally, I thought they were great, considering Pete and Roger are both 60+ years old. I enjoyed the light show because it reminds me of other rock concerts I've been to over the years. I thought Roger and Pete both looked great for their ages.

Photo copyright Rolling Stone

Way Back Wednesday - Lilo & Stitch

2010-01-27T09:06:00.003-05:00

At Christine's encouragement, I will begin featuring some of her favorite Disney movies for the next few Way Back Wednesdays. This week, I'm starting with her favorite, LILO & STITCH.

Lilo & Stitch was released in 2002 by Disney and is the 42nd animated feature in the Walt Disney Animated Classics. Lilo & Stitch was nominated for the 2002 Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.

At the beginning of the film, we learn about Experiment 626, an aggressive and cunning creature from a far away galaxy constructed by Dr. Jumba. When Jumba is imprisoned, 626 is exiled into space. Although nearly indestructible, he is knocked unconscious when landing on Earth. He is mistaken for a dog and sent to a local animal shelter.

After the death of her parents, a Hawaiian girl - Lilo - adopts an unusual pet - Stitch - who turns out to be Experiment 626. Left in the care of her 19 year old sister, Nani, the sisters risk separation because of a social workers concerns about Lilo's care.

Nani is forced to take Lilo and Stitch with her on job interviews. During these trips, Lilo tries to "tame" Stitch by teaching him to be like Elvis Presley. During all their antics, Jumba has been sent to search for 626 and return him to his home planet.

Favorite quotes:

Stitch: [while using a VW Beetle to defend himself against attackers] Blue punch buggy... no punch-back!

Lilo: 'Ohana means family, family means nobody gets left behind. Or forgotten.

Stitch: This is my family. I found it, all on my own. Is little, and broken, but still good. Yeah, still good.

Lilo: Our family's little now, and we don't have many toys... But if you want, you could be a part of it. You could be our baby, and we'd raise you to be good.

Captain Gantu: Abomination!
Stitch: Stupid-head!

Lilo: Elvis Presley was a model citizen. I've compiled a list of his traits for you to practice. Number one... is dancing!

Lilo: You came back.
Stitch: Nobody gets left behind.

Devon Mikayla

2010-01-25T08:45:00.004-05:00

I realized over the weekend that it had been a while since I updated everyone on my upcoming grandbaby. We found out last week that the Tadpole is going to be a girl!! Her name is officially Devon Mikayla and her due date is June 6th. Here is an ultrasound picture of Devon taken on January 19th - she's sucking her little thumb!

The rest of the ultrasound pictures are a little dark, so I'm only going to post one more. This is a view of one of her feet - look at the size of that foot! She weighed a whooping 12 ounces when this ultrasound was done.
We are all so happy that Devon appears healthy and her mama, Marie, is doing well. Please continue to keep them all in your thoughts and prayers.

Free Flowing Friday

2010-01-22T10:02:00.004-05:00

Friday, Friday, Friday - how did you arrive so early? It's been another fast-paced week and right now, all I can think about is a long nap after work!

1.) I want to thank Katerina Stoykova-Klemer and her writing group - Poezia Writing Group -for allowing members of the Community of Mercer County Writers to join them this week. It was great fun and we will be attending again very soon. We meet so many talented writers, all full of energy and active muses. Thanks guys, especially you John Malkovich (Keith) - we'll be seeing you in HECK!

2.) "The Wizard of Oz" at the Ragged Edge Community Theatre was a sell-out last weekend and we are hoping for the same this weekend. It is amazing that a small local Theatre can have standing room only for an amateur performance. Look for many more great shows under the direction of Tagan Citty. "Southern Hospitality" opens February 19th.

3.) I got the email I was waiting for this week, but it is not as great of news as I wanted. Arcadia Publishing has accepted my book proposal for Historical Images of Harrodsburg, but they want to move the deadline up from October to August. I'm hyperventilating over losing 2 months of time and I'm second guessing myself. Will I have time to get the book I want ready in only 7 months? I'm expecting my first grandchild in June and I will be getting Christine ready for college. I'll be doing a lot of praying this weekend - they want an answer on Monday.

4.) I'm excited about the Book Release Party for "The Women of Mercer County" on Sunday, January 31st from 3-5pm at Beaumont Inn. I hope everyone comes out and supports this historically important book. The book features more than 125 stories and will be available for $20. After the Book Release Party, the books will be available at The Harrodsburg Herald, Beaumont Inn, J. Sampson Antiques & Books and Harrodsburg/Mercer County Tourist Commission.

5.) I'm still fuming over Chief Justice John Roberts decision yesterday giving big corporations the same rights as individual citizens. In the words of Keith Olbermann:

"... the First Amendment, free speech for persons, which went into effect in 1791, applies to corporations, which were not recognized as the equivalents of persons until 1886. In short, there are now no checks on the ability of corporations or unions or other giant aggregations of power to decide our elections. None."

As if the GOP weren't already in the back pocket of big business.

6.) Two weeks until LOST ...

Batter Up ...

2010-01-22T09:05:00.004-05:00

... Thanks Judge Roberts for burning the 1st amendment. Doesn't the US Constitution begin with, "We the people," not, "We the people and corporations and unions?" Just one more step toward big corporations running the country ...

Keith Olbermann had it right last night: "... the First Amendment, free speech for persons, which went into effect in 1791, applies to corporations, which were not recognized as the equivalents of persons until 1886. In short, there are now no checks on the ability of corporations or unions or other giant aggregations of power to decide our elections. None."

This decision is like the eqivalent of me being able to yell "FIRE" in a crowded movie theatre.

Here's what Judge Roberts said in 2005 - oh, how soon they forget:

"Judges are like umpires. Umpires don't make the rules; they apply them. The role of an umpire and a judge is critical. They make sure everybody plays by the rules. But it is a limited role. Nobody ever went to a ball game to see the umpire... I will remember that it's my job to call balls and strikes and not to pitch or bat."

Of course, Roberts and this Republican led Supreme Court have just tilted the playing field in favor of the GOP, as if they didn't already benefit most from coporate donations. This is one of the biggest reasons the GOP is against healthcare reform, they know they will lose all those big dollars from the health insurance and health care businesses.

Just another example of why we need to impose term limits on Supreme Court Justices. Score another victory for the Republicans and the Conservative Movement! The American People are the ones to suffer ...

Way Back Wednesday - Let the Right One In

2010-01-20T01:58:00.002-05:00

To cover for the fact I'm on another Dark Shadows kick (watching several episodes a week instead of watching a movie), I'm going to highlight one of my favorite "vampire" movies. Although technically not up to my standards for a "Way Back Wednesday" (it was released in 2008), this is a hauntingly good movie.

LET THE RIGHT ONE IN is a Swedish import classified as a horror film, but it has the ability to generate true feelings. The main character, Oskar - played by Kåre Hedebrant - is a 12-year-old outcast who is a frequent target for bullies. He dreams of getting his revenge, but he never stands up to the boys.

Oskar finally gains a true friend when 12-year-old Eli - played by Lina Leandersson - moves in next door. Oskar now has a friend, ally, and first love. Eli gives Oskar the strength to fight back and stand up to his enemies.

I'm going to tell you any more about the plot, but this is a movie you should see instead of read about. But let me say, it is definitely worth watching.

Based on the novel by John Ajvide Linqvist (who also wrote the script), LET THE RIGHT ONE IN is a great story because appears to be one storyline and genre, but quickly transforms into something else. Sweet, innocent and romantic one minute, then evil and bloody the next - it will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Favorite quotes:

Oskar: Are you a vampire?
Eli: I live off blood...
[pause]
Eli: Yes.
Oskar: Are you...
[pause]
Oskar: Dead?
Eli: No. Can't you tell?

Oskar: Are you really twelve?
Eli: Yes. It's just I've been twelve for a very long time.

Oskar: [first lines - imagining revenge] Squeal like a pig. So, Squeal.

Oskar: Who are you?
Eli: I'm like you.
Oskar: What do you mean?
Eli: [accusing tone] What are you looking at? Well? Are you looking at me? [points her finger at Oskar] So scream! Squeal!
[pauses]
Eli: Those were the first words I heard you say.

Tim Burton may take on Maleficent

2010-01-19T09:13:00.000-05:00

According to Ain't it Cool, Tim Burton is going to re-imagine Sleeping Beauty, but it's not really Beauty he cares about. He wants to tell his story from the point of view of Maleficent - it will be called Maleficent. Personally, I always wanted to know more about her myself - why did she hate the 3 Godmothers? Why did she hate Beauty's parents? Interesting questions, and in the hands of Burton and his team, it's going to be fun seeing the answers.

2010-01-18T10:07:00.001-05:00

Backyard wildlife habitat - part #2 - landscaping:
http://tiny.cc/FQS9f

Creature of Habit

2010-01-18T08:48:00.003-05:00

I consider myself a creature of habit - some people may say I'm just stuck in my ways. However you want to phrase it, I have a tendency to do things the same way every time I do them.

This morning, on the spur of the moment, I took a different route to work. This may not seem like a big deal to some, considering I only drive 5 miles to work, but this morning I felt like a rebel.

Instead of driving up Main Street, I came in through a side street. Because our courthouse is currently being rebuilt (don't get me on a rant about the evils of tearing down the historic courthouse!), there is a wide open view of the upper portion of Main Street. Harrodsburg has a beautiful Main Street! The view from College Street to East Office Street on up to Main Street give a panoramic view of the Kentucky Fudge Company - one of my favorite places to eat - Studio G, Whitaker Bank and several others.

Fascinating what you can see when you break out of a rut.

Now, wonder what "habit" I'll break tomorrow??

Free Flowing Friday

2010-01-15T10:04:00.004-05:00

To say 2K10 has gotten off to a bang would be an understatement! Here it is the 3rd Friday into the New Year, and I've yet to make a decent blog post. Too much to do, so little time.

1.) I'd like to invite everyone out to the Ragged Edge Community Theatre for our production of "The Wizard of Oz." The show opened last night - show times are:

January 15 and 16th at 8pm
January 17th at 3pm
January 21, 22, and 23rd at 8pm
January 24th at 3pm

Admission is $8 for adults and $6 for children 12 yo and under. The show is fabulous and the cast and crew have worked very hard - forgoing their Christmas breaks to get a head start on the production.

2.) I have submitted by first book of poetry to Finishing Line Press for their New Women Voices contest. Prize money is $1,000 and publication of the book, so I'm keeping my fingers crossed. The name of my book is "The Care and Feeding of Nightmares." Even if I don't win the contest, I am going to pursue publication of this book because I'm very proud of the depth of feeling it contains.

3.) I have submitted my book proposal for "Harrodsburg Historical Images" to Arcadia Publishing. As you may recall, they contacted me just before Thanksgiving last year and wanted me to work on a book about Harrodsburg. I was pleased and honored to be contacted, so now I'm just waiting to see what my deadline will be for completing the work.

4.) The book "Women of Mercer County" has been published and there will be a book release party on January 31st at Beaumont Inn. I have 3 essays in this book: Granny Devine, Granny Sallee, and Amy Carter Sallee (my sister). This book has been a long time coming and I am anxious to see the finished product.

5.) And one more book related thought, I am nearly finished with the editing process for "I Dream of My Past" - a collection of my essays from MERCER'S MAGAZINE. This is another book I will actively seek publication of this year. I can't believe that after a lifetime of writing, I will have at least one book published this year, with the potential of 3 more! All my hard work is finally paying off.

6.) Although I don't make New Year's Resolutions, I do have a few goals for this year (many of them are listed above), but one of my biggest goals is to take control of my life again. For the past 5 years, I feel like I've been floundering in the sea of life and going where ever the waves take me. I need to step in and make concrete decisions for the course of my life. It's a hard thing to do, but I'm taking one baby step at a time.

2010-01-11T10:19:00.001-05:00

Planning a backyard habitat - part 1: http://ping.fm/he5Rf

Up on my Soap Box

2010-01-05T23:40:00.007-05:00

Oh, man, I've put my foot in my mouth again - or maybe my laptop keyboard.
..
Stomp
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Stomp
..
Stomp
..
(That's me climbing up on my soap box)

My 17 year old daughter came home from school yesterday and was furious about a "Literacy Rally" held at school that morning. Now, you must understand, my daughter is a straight A student, is on the Student Body Council and plans to go to college in the fall. She is all about reading and education, and although she hates going to "pep rallies" for the sports teams, she got her hopes up this one would be different.

Her first complaint was the "motivational speech" the superintendent gave. She said instead of trying to pump the kids up and get them excited about reading and learning, he basically said they were all stupid. I wasn't at the rally, so I only have her commentary to go on, but she said he complained about low test scores and bad attitudes. I realize there are some bad apples in the bunch, but they aren't all slackers. Not to brag again, but my daughter's reading ACT score is 30 - she is definitely not a slacker.

Then, as a reward to celebrate literacy, they were supposed to be impressed by having a professional football player give a speech. Really, for a literacy speech, a football player?! With a beautiful Commonwealth full of talented authors and poets, the school system picks a football player to motivate the students to do better in school. My daughter would have been better served by listening to our Poet Laureate, Gurney Norman - or Silas House or Chris Offutt or Wendall Berry or Bobbie Ann Mason or Ed McClanahan - the list of great KY writers is infinite.

But the thing that really pissed her off is the Dance Team performing to a vulgar song by Kesha call Tick Tock. Really, the principal at MCSH thought these lyrics were appropriate to present at a Literacy Rally, really??

"... brush my teeth with a bottle of Jack ..."

... Pulling up to the parties trying to get a little bit tipsy ..."

... Ain't got a care in world, but got plenty of beer ..."

... Boys trying to touch my junk, junk ..."

... Don't stop, make it pop ..."

This is the same principal that censors every word the school newspaper prints - and he won't allow them to write stories on music or musicians, or certain comedians.

I don't believe in censorship, so I really don't have a problem with the lyrics. Hell, "Bat Out of Hell" is one of my favorite songs, but dangit, there is a time and place for everything and in my opinion, a public high school is not the time or place. Not all children listen to rap - I know mine doesn't (but she does love her European metal bands!), and she was embarrassed by the lyrics - mainly because of all the hormonal boys sitting around her.

Again, it's not the Dance Team (or the volleyball team or the cheerleaders or the tennis players or insert your own sport) I have a problem with - it's their choice of skimpy clothing and vulgar music. In the case of a high school presentation, in my opinion they should have performed to instrumental music. After all, I have to give signed permission for my daughter to watch R rated movies at school (for Drama and AP Literature) - but the school decides what they can listen to without consulting a parent. Many of these so called "rap" songs come with warning labels to help keep parents informed.

I'm just sick of the double standard in school - from the dress code to activities. I know it will never stop, and since my daughter only has 5 1/2 more months at this school, I'm choosing not to battle the school system.

Okay ...

..
Stomp
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Stomp
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Stomp
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I'm stepping off my soap box ...

Shut the Damn Door!

2010-01-05T08:57:00.005-05:00

Baby, it's cold outside! To steal a line from Bill Meck - WLEX TV 18 weatherman:

"Who went to Canada and left the door open!" I mean really, does it have to be sooooooo cold?

Now, before it sounds like I'm complaining, I thought I'd list some of the reasons this bone-chilling weather is a good thing:

You can put your glass of Coke (or whatever you drink) out on the window ledge for 10 minutes and not have to use ice.
You can snuggle on the couch with your honey - two bodies can make the night a little warmer.
All that shivering helps to burn calories!
3 things - hot chocolate, fuzzy blanket and a good book, oh, yes!!
You don't have to worry about unexpected visitors, 'cause no one in their right mind would be out in this weather unless absolutely necessary.
You can justify eating that chocolate, "Because I need to keep my metabolism up in order to stay warm."
You can get away with not washing your hair because stocking caps are the order of the day.
You can store up great stories to tell your grandkids; "When I was a young whipper-snapper, it was so cold I ... "
No mosquitoes, no mosquito bites!
You can walk across the muddy spot in your yard and not worry about getting your feet dirty.
You can use your car to store extra ice cream - it's never too cold for ice cream!

2010-01-04T11:06:00.001-05:00

Feeding birds during the winter:
http://ping.fm/02FID

Happy 2K10

2010-01-04T10:12:00.002-05:00

(Must touch toes)

I learned a long time ago not to make New Year's Resolutions because I can never keep them. That being said, I do have some goals I wish to obtain during the year 2010:

I want to have my first book published - I am currently working on 3. One is a collection of my Mercer's Magazine stories, one is a book of poetry and one is a pictorial history of Harrodsburg. I would love to get all 3 published, but I know that's being greedy, so my goal is to get at least one of these in print.

I am not setting a weight loss goal because this task seems unsurmountable to me, but I have set a goal of getting healthier in 2010. I need to exercise more, eat less and try to wean myself off of Coca-Cola yet again. I realize I need to take one step at a time, but in my case, I may have to take one minute at a time.

Keep my home organized before my first grandbaby arrives! My home is currently not "child friendly" and I want to see my grandbaby lots and lots - so out with the old and bring in NO new! I need to minimize my home and get rid of the junk that is cluttering every room. I also want to turn our spare bedroom into an office / nursery. This will be a monumental undertaking, but it has to be done.

I also want to spend as much time as possible with my youngest daughter before she is off to college. I can't believe my baby is in her last semester of her senior year - in 9 months she will be off to college and I'll be left with an empty nest. I plan to make the most of my time with her.

I have a longer list of goals printed out and posted on the desks in both of my offices and I hope to make baby steps on each goal every day. For some reason, obtaining goals just sounds better to me than keeping New Year's resolutions.

So, what have you planned for the New Year?

Way Back Wednesday - Raising Arizona

2009-12-30T22:37:00.001-05:00

Raising Arizona is a 1987 comedy directed by the Coen Brothers. Now, before I start, I must say I'm not a fan of the Coem Brothers - mainly because of all the "potty humor" - but I do enjoy this movie and it always makes me laugh.

The movie stars Nicolas Cage, Holly Hunter, William Forsythe, John Goodman, Frances McDormand and Randall "Tex" Cobb. Although Raising Arizona was not a blockbuster at the time of its release, it has gone on to a cult following. The movie is ranked number 31 on the American Film Institute's 100 Years... 100 Laughs.

Cage plays criminal Herbert I. "Hi" McDunnough who meets a policewoman Edwina "Ed" (Hunter) - the eventually get married, making a hilarious "odd couple." They soon learn Ed is infertile and find they are unable to adopt because of Hi's criminal record.

While watching the news one night, they learn about the "Arizona Quints," sons of locally famous furniture tycoon, Nathan Arizona (Trey Wilson). Between Hi's criminal techniques and Ed's knowledge of the law, they kidnap one of the five babies - Nathan Junior.

From here on, the story is one funny ride. When ex-convict friends of Hi's decide to steal the baby from Hi and Ed and hold him for ransom from Arizona, the couple decides to return the baby to his family, where they hope he will be safe.

Favorite quotes:

[During Hi's mug shot]
Hi: What kind of name is Ed for a pretty thing like you?
Ed: Short for Edwina. Turn to the right.
Hi: You're a flower, you are. Just a little desert flower.

Hi: Biology and the prejudices of others conspired to keep us childless.

Hi: Need a beer, Glen?
Glen: Does the Pope wear a funny hat?

[Evelle is buying diapers]
Evelle: You know how to put these things on?
Grocer: Well, around the butt and up over the groin area.
Evelle: I know WHERE they go, old timer. I just want to know if I need pins or fasteners.
Grocer: Well, no, they got them tape-ettes already on there. It's self-contained and fairly explanatory.

Reporter: Mr. Arizona, do you have any messages for the kidnappers?
Nathan Arizona Sr.: Yeah: Watch your butts.

Ed: We finally go out with decent people and you break his nose. That ain't too funny, Hi.
Hi: His kids seemed to think it was funny.
Ed: Well they're just kids.

2009-12-28T09:14:00.001-05:00

December garden maintenance: http://ping.fm/hTbpE

Looking Forward

2009-12-28T06:45:00.006-05:00

Christmas has come and gone and 2010 is right around the corner. I can't get over how fast time flies - seems like the older I get, the faster it goes.

I don't typically do New Year's Resolutions because I can never seem to keep them, but I do have several things I'm looking forward to in the coming year.

First and foremost, I'll be a first-time Grandparent and I am so excited. I've been dreaming about grandchildren for several years now and that dream is finally coming true. Currently, we don't know the sex of the Tadpole, and I really don't care as long as he/she is healthy.
My youngest daughter will graduate from high school in May, and although I'm not looking forward to this, I am so excited for her. Christine's life is wide open and the possibilities are endless. I just know she will be a success no matter what she does with her life.
My writing group, The Community of Mercer County Writers - or Nomadic Ink - has several great events planned for this coming year. We hope to grow our group and add more talented writers and we want to make our presence known in the community. One event I'm really excited about will be in June - Prose for Pets. We will be partnering with the Mercer County Humane Society to promote and sponsor pet adoptions. It should be a great event. We are planning to publish and sell a chapbook of pet related stories and poems - all proceeds will go to the Humane Society.
I will be having several things published in upcoming books. In "The Women of Mercer County" - to be published in January - I will have 3 personal essays in memorial of Granny Devine, Granny Sallee and my baby sister, Amy Carter Sallee. In "Speaking Out II" I will have a personal essay about my grandmothers and their gardens, as well as several poems. In "New Southerner" magazine, I will have a personal essay about my grandparents farm - this was a finalist in their non-fiction contest.
I am going to knuckle down and finish the editing process for my collection of essays, tentatively entitled, "I Dream of My Past." This will be a collection of my Mercer's Magazine essays. I have had many people asking for a book, so I want to make this a reality for the upcoming year. I would love to be featured at the Kentucky Book Fair in November.
I am also finishing up my first full-length collection of poetry. This book will contain the poems previously published in my chapbook, "Out of My Comfort Zone," plus many new ones. Some of my poems are a tad bit on the dark side, and I have contemplated organizing them into a book of their own, but I haven't decided.
I will also be working on a book for Arcadia Publishing about my historic hometown of Harrodsburg. This one is going to be lots of work and I hope to have help from others in the community.
I also have an idea for a play I would like to write for the Ragged Edge Community Theatre. Since becoming the Theatre Administrator, I have become excited about new projects for the theatre.

There are many more things I'm looking forward to, but these are the highlights. I know it looks like I have a full plate, but I plan to stay busy to help minimize the empty nest syndrome I know I'll be suffering from.

Christmas 2009

2009-12-27T13:13:00.008-05:00

Our silver Christmas tree

Christine playing Santa

Marie holding Desiree

Ashley and Amber

Moma opening Elvis

Daddy holding Desiree

A Christmas Carol

2009-12-18T09:00:00.005-05:00

Hubby and I had date night last evening and we went to see the Nebraska Theatre Caravan production of A CHRISTMAS CAROL at the Norton Center of Centre College. Excellent show!!!

I loved how the actors worked together to change the scenes and move props around - the scene changes were almost flawless. I also loved the snow falling during several of the scenes. If you ever get a chance to see this theatre group, it is well worth it.

I didn't have time to upload our photos last night, but I'll post a few of them over the weekend.

(All photos copyright Nebraska Theatre Caravan)