Howard Hughes
Saturday, January 01, 2005
"The Aviator"
Martin Scorcese's film, "The Aviator" starring DiCaprio is a must see. Even if you don't enjoy flying, Hollywood's glamour days or Howard Hughes trivia, this movie will make you re-think all that.
It's probably the best film I've seen DiCaprio as he plays the eccentric billionaire as both darkly driven and racuously visionary.
What really "takes off" in this film is the story of Howard Hughes, which is what all good story-telling will do. It doesn't center on the great performances of its cast, which it has plenty to boast. It makes you want to read up on the great Texan who despite all his success called himself an aviator first and foremost.
It also is wonderful to see a film that is lavishly done as only Scorcese can do...evoking the old Hollywood glamour, complete with lavish sets and deep set red lipstick.
Don't miss it...but take a snack. The 3-hour movie can drag in some places but sustains overall.
It's probably the best film I've seen DiCaprio as he plays the eccentric billionaire as both darkly driven and racuously visionary.
What really "takes off" in this film is the story of Howard Hughes, which is what all good story-telling will do. It doesn't center on the great performances of its cast, which it has plenty to boast. It makes you want to read up on the great Texan who despite all his success called himself an aviator first and foremost.
It also is wonderful to see a film that is lavishly done as only Scorcese can do...evoking the old Hollywood glamour, complete with lavish sets and deep set red lipstick.
Don't miss it...but take a snack. The 3-hour movie can drag in some places but sustains overall.
Psalms 46:1 - 4
I took a "spirituality quiz" to find out that I'm a "questioning believer". Really?
http://www.beliefnet.com/section/quiz/index.asp%3FsectionID%3D%26surveyID%3D27
God Is Our Hope
God is our hope and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will we not fear, though the earth be moved, and though the hills be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof rage and swell, and though the mountains shake at the tempest of the same. There is a river, the streams whereof make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High.
- Psalms 46: 1-4
http://www.beliefnet.com/section/quiz/index.asp%3FsectionID%3D%26surveyID%3D27
God Is Our Hope
God is our hope and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will we not fear, though the earth be moved, and though the hills be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof rage and swell, and though the mountains shake at the tempest of the same. There is a river, the streams whereof make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacle of the Most High.
- Psalms 46: 1-4
Friday, December 31, 2004
I don't want to be reflective this year
Since I spend way too much time being reflective, I just don't feel in the mood, even though it is New Year's Eve. I am ready to unwind on the couch with some great chardonney and movies with my favorite people in the whole world...my family.
I spent most of today ransacking my office and finishing out month end...we did well...still work to be done, but we're on the right track.
I watched a great show tonight on Encore television
6:15PM
The Cutting Edge: The Magic Of Movie Editing Rated TVPG, 1h 37min
I had no idea the power of editors on film making. This documentary creates the desire to be a movie editor. Great information and very entertaining. Takes kind of the fun out of watching movies, but it does testify to the storytelling art of movie making.
I spent most of today ransacking my office and finishing out month end...we did well...still work to be done, but we're on the right track.
I watched a great show tonight on Encore television
6:15PM
The Cutting Edge: The Magic Of Movie Editing Rated TVPG, 1h 37min
I had no idea the power of editors on film making. This documentary creates the desire to be a movie editor. Great information and very entertaining. Takes kind of the fun out of watching movies, but it does testify to the storytelling art of movie making.
New toys, new year
I bought myself a new camera...the Kodak Easy Share 6490. WOW...it is quite a package. I love the software that allows you to share photos easily...one step shooting is what Kodak claims and it truly is wonderful.
So you'll probably start seeing more photos in this blog in the new year. I've been working on final end of year numbers and deadlines and am just about wrapping it up for a quite New Year's with my family.
I'll probably see some new movies. I really want to see "Hotel Rwanda". As I have been thinking and praying about the tsunami victims, it brings to mind just how much of the world suffers.
So you'll probably start seeing more photos in this blog in the new year. I've been working on final end of year numbers and deadlines and am just about wrapping it up for a quite New Year's with my family.
I'll probably see some new movies. I really want to see "Hotel Rwanda". As I have been thinking and praying about the tsunami victims, it brings to mind just how much of the world suffers.
Tuesday, December 28, 2004
Sacred Prayer site
I found an interesting site this morning while browsing the web...
www.sacredspace.ie
It has even an "online retreat" which may be an oxymoron for some that desire to be "unplugged"....I found it wonderfully refreshing and hope to make it a part of my daily routine in upcoming new year.
www.sacredspace.ie
It has even an "online retreat" which may be an oxymoron for some that desire to be "unplugged"....I found it wonderfully refreshing and hope to make it a part of my daily routine in upcoming new year.
Monday, December 27, 2004
Two great things in the NYT This week
Gotta see it-- the Annie Liebowitz photo shoot that evidently produced the new American Express campaign (My Life, My Card stuff)...There is a shot of DeNiro inside the NYT Magazine that is a heart stopper. This photo captures DeNiro in motion, his hulking back to us, trenchcoat swirling around his knees. It's as if we are experiencing all the dark, enigmatic features of this actor. The best part: you only see half of his face, which draws us into the DeNiro mystique. Is he a good guy? A bad guy? Both? We don't know, but we love watching DeNiro in whatever he does. He's an actor we trust, we feel confident with..even if he is shooting up bad guys (or good guys). You know that if he is on your side, your side wins.
The next thing in NYT which is worth taking a look...
www.nytimes.com/weekinreview
Robert Deniro at his grizzled best.
Saturday, December 25, 2004
Christmas Night
I made it. After 15 years of struggling through the Christmas season, I have made it through a somewhat painless and even enjoyable experience.
I have tried to assemble the reasons that made this season so much easier -- more peaceful - than others. There are a few that I think attributed to this...here they are:
1 - Making a decision to enjoy the season. Realizing that it is a season t celebrate, I determined to find something -- each day -- to celebrate. My husband's parenting, my kids willingness to help around the house...something to say, "wow, that's good."
2 - Realizing my limitations. I cannot shop for more than an hour a day ( I truly hate shopping -- remember, that is what God made the internet!). So I chose each day to work in a little shopping and it didn't take a lot of days to make a dent in the list. Also, I chose to have a budget - -although I blew the budget -- having one I think helped me rein in spending. Still, I spent more than I probably should have, but less than I might have had I not had a budget.
Also, I don't party. I like reading books, listening to music, watching movies. This runs cross gain to the culture in some ways, and I find crowds suffocating and exhausting. I made a decision to spend time with those I really care about -- and that's it. I can party at work during non-holiday seasons because it may be a part of my job -- and I've also learned "how to" do it so that it works for me and others.
3 - Set after-christmas goals. Nothing is more depressing than opening gifts and realizing that there is nothing for the "after days" of christmas. I carefully have planned this year to drive my kids and husband crazy by painting the bathrooms upsairs a crisp red. It needs to be done and why not do it while everyone is at home and in each other's way? What better time to experience family closeness when dripping red paint on carpet and new clothes?
Seriously, I decided that some projects around the house would be priorities and have been working on them for quite some time.
4 - Realize that the holidays are not about what you are going to "get" but about what you "have". I know, I know, it sounds a bit corny, but as I approach the big 42 (January 26 for anybody that is wondering!!) I have seen my share of holiday gifts that, no matter how much promise, they disappoint. I have started to understand what my mother in law use to say, "there is nothing like family." I use to hear that with the reflection on my family or origin and would say, "Yep. THAT'S certainly true." But now I hear with with the reflection of my son's gift to his granddad, my daughter's handmade gifts to her father, time spent with my husband. These are the things that have become much more important to me -- maybe it's an "after 40" thing because it use to be to me very much about the gifts.
5 - Set a goal for personal, spritual, professional fulfillment - Last year, I continued my working out (kickboxing) and my decision to join a professional speaking organization (toastmaster) Both have brought enjoyable relationships and new skills. This year, I am continuing my pusuit of learning Spanish (have found a tutor for once a week) and will continue my working out. I want to explore more yoga and just having walks with Dan.
Also, I have become absolutely hooked on my writing -- not my personal writing, mind you, but the realization that this is something that I literally need to do. It's like breathing for me...for years I have kept journals...now I have this blog, a personal journal (yes, there is some juicy stuff in there, but it's NOT online!!!) and my own daily journal. I am always writing -- in my head, in my journals and I whether I ever write the "great american novel" it fills me with peace and comfort.
Recently, I sat some professionals goals that should be completed in the next 4 -5 years. Once I realized that whatever professional goals I achieve will be completed in the next few years, it was as if a huge weight was off me. I will continue to work with focus and dedication, but work is more a means to an end, rather than an end for me. I enjoy what I do and feel that I am good at it and hopefully I add to the quality of others lives.
But work is NOT my life...and I don't wish to be defined or limited by it. I am enjoying finding other outlets - gardening, writing -- that are extremely fulfilling to me as well. Enjoying these pursuits and making time for them are essential to my well being. It took me a long time to realize this.
Spritually, I have recently begun to enjoy the discipline of contemplative prayer. I am a gawky amateur at best, but I am enjoying how learning this discipline helps calm, soothe and center me. I also am enjoying really trying to listen to God speaking to me. I've always been a bit of a skeptic about the whole God thing...I believe in Him, but wonders sometimes if He believes in me. I'm a pretty big goober who has made more than few "big ones" (mistakes). It is taking me a long time to embrace that God would want anything to do with me...much less talk to me. I'm finding that I God is a whole lot different than I originally thought...maybe we just got off to a bad start or I formed some unfortunate pre-judgements. My first impressions of Him weren't that great...he seemed opinionated and judgemental, not to mention a big of a know it all. Anyway, I'm trying to embrace the silence in my life and try to listen...gardening, writing really help me do this.
6 - Better manage my resources -- especially money. I admit it, I can make a lot of money, but that doesn't mean anything. It matters on how much you keep -- or give to others. I have a lot to learn about this discipline and I'm slowly -- slowly, slowly, making progress. It has taken me a long time to see why I buy what I do, what I'm really looking for when I make the purchase. This season I found myself being more analytical about what I purchased and why. It still didn't seem to help me by blowing my budget, but I think I did do better.
These are the things that I have learned in the past 42 years and what I take into the new year.
I have tried to assemble the reasons that made this season so much easier -- more peaceful - than others. There are a few that I think attributed to this...here they are:
1 - Making a decision to enjoy the season. Realizing that it is a season t celebrate, I determined to find something -- each day -- to celebrate. My husband's parenting, my kids willingness to help around the house...something to say, "wow, that's good."
2 - Realizing my limitations. I cannot shop for more than an hour a day ( I truly hate shopping -- remember, that is what God made the internet!). So I chose each day to work in a little shopping and it didn't take a lot of days to make a dent in the list. Also, I chose to have a budget - -although I blew the budget -- having one I think helped me rein in spending. Still, I spent more than I probably should have, but less than I might have had I not had a budget.
Also, I don't party. I like reading books, listening to music, watching movies. This runs cross gain to the culture in some ways, and I find crowds suffocating and exhausting. I made a decision to spend time with those I really care about -- and that's it. I can party at work during non-holiday seasons because it may be a part of my job -- and I've also learned "how to" do it so that it works for me and others.
3 - Set after-christmas goals. Nothing is more depressing than opening gifts and realizing that there is nothing for the "after days" of christmas. I carefully have planned this year to drive my kids and husband crazy by painting the bathrooms upsairs a crisp red. It needs to be done and why not do it while everyone is at home and in each other's way? What better time to experience family closeness when dripping red paint on carpet and new clothes?
Seriously, I decided that some projects around the house would be priorities and have been working on them for quite some time.
4 - Realize that the holidays are not about what you are going to "get" but about what you "have". I know, I know, it sounds a bit corny, but as I approach the big 42 (January 26 for anybody that is wondering!!) I have seen my share of holiday gifts that, no matter how much promise, they disappoint. I have started to understand what my mother in law use to say, "there is nothing like family." I use to hear that with the reflection on my family or origin and would say, "Yep. THAT'S certainly true." But now I hear with with the reflection of my son's gift to his granddad, my daughter's handmade gifts to her father, time spent with my husband. These are the things that have become much more important to me -- maybe it's an "after 40" thing because it use to be to me very much about the gifts.
5 - Set a goal for personal, spritual, professional fulfillment - Last year, I continued my working out (kickboxing) and my decision to join a professional speaking organization (toastmaster) Both have brought enjoyable relationships and new skills. This year, I am continuing my pusuit of learning Spanish (have found a tutor for once a week) and will continue my working out. I want to explore more yoga and just having walks with Dan.
Also, I have become absolutely hooked on my writing -- not my personal writing, mind you, but the realization that this is something that I literally need to do. It's like breathing for me...for years I have kept journals...now I have this blog, a personal journal (yes, there is some juicy stuff in there, but it's NOT online!!!) and my own daily journal. I am always writing -- in my head, in my journals and I whether I ever write the "great american novel" it fills me with peace and comfort.
Recently, I sat some professionals goals that should be completed in the next 4 -5 years. Once I realized that whatever professional goals I achieve will be completed in the next few years, it was as if a huge weight was off me. I will continue to work with focus and dedication, but work is more a means to an end, rather than an end for me. I enjoy what I do and feel that I am good at it and hopefully I add to the quality of others lives.
But work is NOT my life...and I don't wish to be defined or limited by it. I am enjoying finding other outlets - gardening, writing -- that are extremely fulfilling to me as well. Enjoying these pursuits and making time for them are essential to my well being. It took me a long time to realize this.
Spritually, I have recently begun to enjoy the discipline of contemplative prayer. I am a gawky amateur at best, but I am enjoying how learning this discipline helps calm, soothe and center me. I also am enjoying really trying to listen to God speaking to me. I've always been a bit of a skeptic about the whole God thing...I believe in Him, but wonders sometimes if He believes in me. I'm a pretty big goober who has made more than few "big ones" (mistakes). It is taking me a long time to embrace that God would want anything to do with me...much less talk to me. I'm finding that I God is a whole lot different than I originally thought...maybe we just got off to a bad start or I formed some unfortunate pre-judgements. My first impressions of Him weren't that great...he seemed opinionated and judgemental, not to mention a big of a know it all. Anyway, I'm trying to embrace the silence in my life and try to listen...gardening, writing really help me do this.
6 - Better manage my resources -- especially money. I admit it, I can make a lot of money, but that doesn't mean anything. It matters on how much you keep -- or give to others. I have a lot to learn about this discipline and I'm slowly -- slowly, slowly, making progress. It has taken me a long time to see why I buy what I do, what I'm really looking for when I make the purchase. This season I found myself being more analytical about what I purchased and why. It still didn't seem to help me by blowing my budget, but I think I did do better.
These are the things that I have learned in the past 42 years and what I take into the new year.
New Wines
I have started learning more about wines. I am convinced that one doesn't have to be a wine snob to enjoy an ancient brew, so I'm just asking and experiementing on my own. No big lavish wine tastings or anything like that -- just finding what I like by asking those that know, usually wine merchants or just trying something for myself.
I found one Chardonnay that I really like. It is, as some might say, a "dry wine". I think it has an excellent taste. I served it with some chicken soup and also with the christmas turkey. Wonderful flavor.
Liberty School Chardonnay 2001 We blended fruit from two of the best Chardonnay regions in the state, the Santa Maria Valley and another in Monterey County in the famous Santa Lucia Highlands. There are nuances of Bartlett pear, pineapple and green apples in the nose. The finish is long, balanced and never cloying, due to its healthy acidity. BN#142502
$11.99SKU13148
I am also trying a wine from Rosemount Estate with roast beef later this weekend...I'll post on this later.
I found one Chardonnay that I really like. It is, as some might say, a "dry wine". I think it has an excellent taste. I served it with some chicken soup and also with the christmas turkey. Wonderful flavor.
Liberty School Chardonnay 2001 We blended fruit from two of the best Chardonnay regions in the state, the Santa Maria Valley and another in Monterey County in the famous Santa Lucia Highlands. There are nuances of Bartlett pear, pineapple and green apples in the nose. The finish is long, balanced and never cloying, due to its healthy acidity. BN#142502
$11.99SKU13148
I am also trying a wine from Rosemount Estate with roast beef later this weekend...I'll post on this later.
Friday, December 24, 2004
Christmas eve
It could not have ever matched my expectations. Still, "The Fockers" was entertaining and enjoyable. I still have a thing for DeNiro, no matter that he acts like a love-stricken grandfather in this film.
And Barbara Streisand is the 'perfect jewish mom' and her character is someone that you just want to go have coffee and chat.
Overall, though, I have to say that the sequel does not measure up to the original. Maybe because originals have that spontaneous quality that sequel simply cannot match.
I am looking forward to seeing "Hotel Rwanda" ...it will probably be my favorite for the holiday season. And the big exume continues as I finish the office and move onto other rooms of the house to clean/organize. We're ready to paint in upstairs bathroom and we'll order fixtures next week to get that job behind us. I'm ready.
I look forward to the rest of Christmas reading, watching movies and doing more writing.
And Barbara Streisand is the 'perfect jewish mom' and her character is someone that you just want to go have coffee and chat.
Overall, though, I have to say that the sequel does not measure up to the original. Maybe because originals have that spontaneous quality that sequel simply cannot match.
I am looking forward to seeing "Hotel Rwanda" ...it will probably be my favorite for the holiday season. And the big exume continues as I finish the office and move onto other rooms of the house to clean/organize. We're ready to paint in upstairs bathroom and we'll order fixtures next week to get that job behind us. I'm ready.
I look forward to the rest of Christmas reading, watching movies and doing more writing.
Thursday, December 23, 2004
The Big Sweep
Operation BIG SWEEP is now fully underway. Here is some ideas that are assisting me in getting my office/home put together for new year:
Staples Office Organization: Frequently Asked QuestionsOffice Organization: Frequently Asked Questions, ... Office organization and time managementexpert, Jan Jasper, replied with the following answers. ... www.staples.com/content/Article/ E-H/FAQsOfficeOrganization.asp - 31k - Cached - Similar pages
5 Rules of OrganizationFive of the most helpful home office organizing tips for dealing with paper, being efficient, and more.
Staples Office Organization: Frequently Asked QuestionsOffice Organization: Frequently Asked Questions, ... Office organization and time managementexpert, Jan Jasper, replied with the following answers. ... www.staples.com/content/Article/ E-H/FAQsOfficeOrganization.asp - 31k - Cached - Similar pages
5 Rules of OrganizationFive of the most helpful home office organizing tips for dealing with paper, being efficient, and more.
Wednesday, December 22, 2004
THE BIG DAY
Today, "Meet the Fockers" is in theaters!
We spent the evening last night with some wonderful friends...truly a special evening with food, music, conversation.
Sometimes, I am amazed at God's graciousness to me with the friends and people He has chosen to intersect my life.
My daughter had her wisdom teeth removed today. She is recuperating on the couch while I try not to hover. Dan is the official "family doctor go-er". I get sick just thinking about someone cutting on my kids. I was reading the post-op directions and felt like throwing up just reading about gauze and ice packs and blood. I'm a real medical wimp, so not really much help at all. I make sure there is chicken soup, warm blankets, books to read, music to listen to...and I sit around and look at my kids, but beyond that, I'm totally worthless.
I have been researching some new ideas for some classes...art history and more on contemplative prayer. This continues to be a source of great comfort and it is opening a lot of new areas to explore and ponder. Today I found a wonderful web site that features biblical instrumentation that perhaps King David might have used in the Psalms along with historical pictures of David, Jesus. The old stirrings from my art history classes are making themselves known...I can get really lost in thinking about artists and how they see their world...what that means. One of the most interesting aspects of studying art is how each artist interprets their world and how myopic we all must be when we try to understand the world around us. We simply cannot see the world without showing our own prejudices and imprints.
I am reading and re-reading the works of Watchmen Nee (Sit, Stand, Walk) and am profoundly captivated by his ideas:
"Most Christians make the mistake of trying walk in order to be able to sit but that is a reversal of the true order. Our natural reason says, IF we don not walk, how can we ever reach the goal? What can we attain without effort? How can we ever get anywhere if we do not move? But Christianity is a queer business! If at the outset we try to do anything, we get nothing. If we seek to attain something we lose everything. For Christianity begins not with the big DO, but with the big DONE." (Watchman Nee, "Sit Walk, Stand"
We spent the evening last night with some wonderful friends...truly a special evening with food, music, conversation.
Sometimes, I am amazed at God's graciousness to me with the friends and people He has chosen to intersect my life.
My daughter had her wisdom teeth removed today. She is recuperating on the couch while I try not to hover. Dan is the official "family doctor go-er". I get sick just thinking about someone cutting on my kids. I was reading the post-op directions and felt like throwing up just reading about gauze and ice packs and blood. I'm a real medical wimp, so not really much help at all. I make sure there is chicken soup, warm blankets, books to read, music to listen to...and I sit around and look at my kids, but beyond that, I'm totally worthless.
I have been researching some new ideas for some classes...art history and more on contemplative prayer. This continues to be a source of great comfort and it is opening a lot of new areas to explore and ponder. Today I found a wonderful web site that features biblical instrumentation that perhaps King David might have used in the Psalms along with historical pictures of David, Jesus. The old stirrings from my art history classes are making themselves known...I can get really lost in thinking about artists and how they see their world...what that means. One of the most interesting aspects of studying art is how each artist interprets their world and how myopic we all must be when we try to understand the world around us. We simply cannot see the world without showing our own prejudices and imprints.
I am reading and re-reading the works of Watchmen Nee (Sit, Stand, Walk) and am profoundly captivated by his ideas:
"Most Christians make the mistake of trying walk in order to be able to sit but that is a reversal of the true order. Our natural reason says, IF we don not walk, how can we ever reach the goal? What can we attain without effort? How can we ever get anywhere if we do not move? But Christianity is a queer business! If at the outset we try to do anything, we get nothing. If we seek to attain something we lose everything. For Christianity begins not with the big DO, but with the big DONE." (Watchman Nee, "Sit Walk, Stand"
Monday, December 20, 2004
2 days to Meet the Fockers...
I spent most of the day on "detailing", what I call closing up loose ends of household and business. I am now fully in the process of cleaning out closets, drawers as well as laying plans and dreams for new year. I have successfully learned how to download not only music but audio books to my dream treo. I think I've become addicted to it..one of my friends calls her palm device her "crack-berry" because of the addictive qualities of having so much in the palm of your hand.
I found a new artist (to me, anyway) called David Lanz which has clear, translucent melodies that are both relaxing and invigorating. I am listening to one of the albums that I've downloaded while Dan relaxes by watching Monday Night Football. I call football a modern day "gladiator" game.
Frank Caliendo (www.frankcaliendo.com) is the comic that mimics John Madden (among many others) and now I can't listen to John Madden without thinking of the comic that spoofs him.
I am reading several books, including two by Watchmen Nee, on prayer. Fascinating stuff and I'm trying to get my feeble brain around the ideas...kind of transports me to a new place to explore. I'll comment more on his ideas in upcoming blogs.
I found a new artist (to me, anyway) called David Lanz which has clear, translucent melodies that are both relaxing and invigorating. I am listening to one of the albums that I've downloaded while Dan relaxes by watching Monday Night Football. I call football a modern day "gladiator" game.
Frank Caliendo (www.frankcaliendo.com) is the comic that mimics John Madden (among many others) and now I can't listen to John Madden without thinking of the comic that spoofs him.
I am reading several books, including two by Watchmen Nee, on prayer. Fascinating stuff and I'm trying to get my feeble brain around the ideas...kind of transports me to a new place to explore. I'll comment more on his ideas in upcoming blogs.
Sunday, December 19, 2004
"Flight of the Phoenix"
Overall, disappointing. I was hoping to find some elements of truth in this parable about being lost and finding one's way out of the much. I did find a few gems, but mostly rather predictable film nuances.
The one performance that I truly enjoyed was Giovanni Ribisi who plays "Elliott". I think he is one of the most versatile actors in Hollywood and I hope to see more of him. As I watched his character in this movie, I found myself really caring about him -- which is the entire point of a great actor---play someone that may be unlikeable but you still care about him. You want to figure him out and figure out what makes him "work", or what motivates him. I found myself doing this with his performance. For more on Mr. Ribisi:
Date of birth (location)
17 December 1974Los Angeles, California, USA
Trivia
Won the ShoWest Newcomer of the Year Award in 1999. (show more)
Sometimes Credited As:
Antonino Giovanni RibisiVonnie RibisiVonni Ribisi
Also, for DeNiro Fans, Bobby boy hosted SNL last night. From what I've seen/heard with Hollywood gossip, DeNiro is notoriously self effacing and shy. He's also a method actor, not a spontaneous comic. He seemed to struggle with the live format of SNL. The best part was his monologue with Kermit the Frog. The irony of Mr. Goodfella and the muppet icon was ironic and well, sweet. It was almost like watching my grandfather sing a song to a kid. DeNiro is one of my all-time favorite people, someone I'd love to have lunch with and just talk.
The countdown continues...a mere three days to "Meet the Fockers". There's no way at this point that this film will live up to my hype and expectations, but I still can't wait to go.
The one performance that I truly enjoyed was Giovanni Ribisi who plays "Elliott". I think he is one of the most versatile actors in Hollywood and I hope to see more of him. As I watched his character in this movie, I found myself really caring about him -- which is the entire point of a great actor---play someone that may be unlikeable but you still care about him. You want to figure him out and figure out what makes him "work", or what motivates him. I found myself doing this with his performance. For more on Mr. Ribisi:
Date of birth (location)
17 December 1974Los Angeles, California, USA
Trivia
Won the ShoWest Newcomer of the Year Award in 1999. (show more)
Sometimes Credited As:
Antonino Giovanni RibisiVonnie RibisiVonni Ribisi
Also, for DeNiro Fans, Bobby boy hosted SNL last night. From what I've seen/heard with Hollywood gossip, DeNiro is notoriously self effacing and shy. He's also a method actor, not a spontaneous comic. He seemed to struggle with the live format of SNL. The best part was his monologue with Kermit the Frog. The irony of Mr. Goodfella and the muppet icon was ironic and well, sweet. It was almost like watching my grandfather sing a song to a kid. DeNiro is one of my all-time favorite people, someone I'd love to have lunch with and just talk.
The countdown continues...a mere three days to "Meet the Fockers". There's no way at this point that this film will live up to my hype and expectations, but I still can't wait to go.
Friday, December 17, 2004
A funny thing happened on the way to the mall
I had a wonderful day with one of my all time favorite people -- my daughter. She and I browsed some boutiques for the "perfect purse" (we finally found it!) and had lunch. It wasn't hurly burly holiday shopping, just enjoyable time together.
It's hard for me to articulate how I feel about my daughter. She is the best of her parents -- her methodical, reasonable, practical side (her dad) and her big dreams and persistence (me). She is not only fun to be with around, but has a deep sensitive side that feels for others.
I remember when she was little and not yet walking. She would see her brother walking around and it seemed she was distraught that she was not walking. She would cry and moan and seem to act as if she wanted to move like he did. Before she could even sit up, we'd prop her up in a small chair -- the kind that "hooks" onto the side of a table (probably outlawed now) and she'd fight to sit up and then fight even hard to lift her "sippy cup" (the kind with the lead in the bottom) and drink out of it. If we tried to help her, she'd grunt and cry...she wanted no help.
When I see her tackle tough situations, I see this same fiery determination in her. She takes charges in basketball games by girls that outweigh her 75 pounds. She works for hours on science and math problems. She doesn't like to not "get something" on the first try and can often be demanding on herself and others.
And yet there is a tenderness, a vulnerability to her that I find hard to describe. Not gullibility but a transparency that I can only pray isn't destroyed by the knocks of high school.
She wants her own style, bucks trends for her own identity. Loves her father with blinding devotion and laughs at all my jokes (even when they are truly stupid).
She told me today that her friends often tell her that she has the "neatest mom". That's flattering to hear, but it's easy to be a fun mom when you've got a jewel for a daughter. She makes it fun. We're still in the early years of teenage-dom, but I have to stop and thank God for the relationship and the person that we have with her.
It's hard for me to articulate how I feel about my daughter. She is the best of her parents -- her methodical, reasonable, practical side (her dad) and her big dreams and persistence (me). She is not only fun to be with around, but has a deep sensitive side that feels for others.
I remember when she was little and not yet walking. She would see her brother walking around and it seemed she was distraught that she was not walking. She would cry and moan and seem to act as if she wanted to move like he did. Before she could even sit up, we'd prop her up in a small chair -- the kind that "hooks" onto the side of a table (probably outlawed now) and she'd fight to sit up and then fight even hard to lift her "sippy cup" (the kind with the lead in the bottom) and drink out of it. If we tried to help her, she'd grunt and cry...she wanted no help.
When I see her tackle tough situations, I see this same fiery determination in her. She takes charges in basketball games by girls that outweigh her 75 pounds. She works for hours on science and math problems. She doesn't like to not "get something" on the first try and can often be demanding on herself and others.
And yet there is a tenderness, a vulnerability to her that I find hard to describe. Not gullibility but a transparency that I can only pray isn't destroyed by the knocks of high school.
She wants her own style, bucks trends for her own identity. Loves her father with blinding devotion and laughs at all my jokes (even when they are truly stupid).
She told me today that her friends often tell her that she has the "neatest mom". That's flattering to hear, but it's easy to be a fun mom when you've got a jewel for a daughter. She makes it fun. We're still in the early years of teenage-dom, but I have to stop and thank God for the relationship and the person that we have with her.
Thursday, December 16, 2004
Another step for mankind...
Today I took the "leap" into the online teleconferencing world. I am quite jazzed about this opportunity as the online world becomes more and more a part of the world.
I think the online possibilities for industries like mine -- sales -- is one that is almost neglected. I wonder if there is any other world, except for the church-world, where more 'sacred cows' live and breathe. There are paradigms that are ages old and virtually unworkable, still they continue because of tradition.
In fact, many things in watching the church world "work" (so to speak) has helped me understand why so many people are so prone to incorrect beliefs about change. It has encouraged me to see a broader picture of humanity -- few of us deal well with change. Even those of us that embrace it (sometimes called "early adapters") have our own anxiety about changes that create more anxiety for those that are resisting it.
I truly believe that online meetings with graphics and more "artsy fartsy" capabilities can be the wave of the future. I think there is a big difference in having conferences and having successful and worthwhile conferences.
The last any of us desire or need is more unproductive time spent regardless of the "bells and whistles".
The company that really has a "heart" for online communication is WEBEX (www.webex.com). They are the industry leader and for good reason -- they do it really well. I have visited others companies and experimented but by far Webex has the ticket.
So here we go --- into a new year and a new era.
I think the online possibilities for industries like mine -- sales -- is one that is almost neglected. I wonder if there is any other world, except for the church-world, where more 'sacred cows' live and breathe. There are paradigms that are ages old and virtually unworkable, still they continue because of tradition.
In fact, many things in watching the church world "work" (so to speak) has helped me understand why so many people are so prone to incorrect beliefs about change. It has encouraged me to see a broader picture of humanity -- few of us deal well with change. Even those of us that embrace it (sometimes called "early adapters") have our own anxiety about changes that create more anxiety for those that are resisting it.
I truly believe that online meetings with graphics and more "artsy fartsy" capabilities can be the wave of the future. I think there is a big difference in having conferences and having successful and worthwhile conferences.
The last any of us desire or need is more unproductive time spent regardless of the "bells and whistles".
The company that really has a "heart" for online communication is WEBEX (www.webex.com). They are the industry leader and for good reason -- they do it really well. I have visited others companies and experimented but by far Webex has the ticket.
So here we go --- into a new year and a new era.
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
Merry, merry, merry
Good things came my way today. One of the best aspects of being in business for yourself is that you get clients that you really LOVE and they become like extended family.
I have been making a list of all the good friends that I've been blessed with this year which has been very encouraging. Think I'll keep it handy when I have one of those "Nobody likes me" days.
I went to church tonight and found it very uplifting. The teacher led us in some contemplative prayer, something that I have been practicing myself. I feel this has been one of the biggest blessings this year. Contemplative prayer is like looking at a painting from a distance and then, through meditation, you move closer to see the intricacies of the artist and the work. It's like beholding a masterpiece and "breathing it in". It allows me to see things that I never have seen before. My mentor for this has been Richard Peace in his book "Contemplative Bible Reading". I am truly an amateur, crawling in this new discipline and am finding it fascinating and truly spiritually fulfilling.
I have been making a list of all the good friends that I've been blessed with this year which has been very encouraging. Think I'll keep it handy when I have one of those "Nobody likes me" days.
I went to church tonight and found it very uplifting. The teacher led us in some contemplative prayer, something that I have been practicing myself. I feel this has been one of the biggest blessings this year. Contemplative prayer is like looking at a painting from a distance and then, through meditation, you move closer to see the intricacies of the artist and the work. It's like beholding a masterpiece and "breathing it in". It allows me to see things that I never have seen before. My mentor for this has been Richard Peace in his book "Contemplative Bible Reading". I am truly an amateur, crawling in this new discipline and am finding it fascinating and truly spiritually fulfilling.
Tuesday, December 14, 2004
My christmas present to myself
I gave in and bought myself the amazing 24 color fine-point Sharpie pack. Hey, I got free silver sharpies.
I am a sharpie-nut. I love to doodle with them, write with them, just like to have them on my desk. I guess it is a carry over from all those art classes in college. Somehow, I just feel more artsy when I have them around.
So I went for the equivalent of an adult 164 crayola crayon set instead of getting the sharpie's that click.
I bought it home and showed Dan and he said, "Happy Anniversary". We celebrate 19 years of married bliss on Jan 4. So, maybe I'll color in a new wedding band for myself.
I am a sharpie-nut. I love to doodle with them, write with them, just like to have them on my desk. I guess it is a carry over from all those art classes in college. Somehow, I just feel more artsy when I have them around.
So I went for the equivalent of an adult 164 crayola crayon set instead of getting the sharpie's that click.
I bought it home and showed Dan and he said, "Happy Anniversary". We celebrate 19 years of married bliss on Jan 4. So, maybe I'll color in a new wedding band for myself.
8 days to "Meet the Fockers"..
Yes, the countdown continues. This weekend, I'll be excited to see some other shows, though.
This is the end of the year, clean out, get systems in order, get ready for a clean slate in January.
I am on my way to Office Depot to get what I need to clean/organize/get rid of stuff in my office and in my storage room. Although I usually dread it, I liven it up with endless movies and other things and in January I have a clean slate in which to work. I cannot work in clutter.
I'm trying to convince my sweet-pack-rat-husband to let me do some wonderful things in his office...but I don't think I'm closing the deal. He sits in the middle of his office with a round circle of piles of paper, swearing that he can find anything he needs. I have been given warnings that if I come near his stuff it could be the end of civilization as we know it. Still I try. I'd like to paint and really clean it up but I think the new year will find that part of the house still in shambles with unidentifiable clutter and piles of paper.
I haven't been doing much reading and it is beginning to show....I feel out of sorts without reading a few books..so tonight I'm going to download some things and get some other books ordered online so that I can complete my year end celebration in style. Movies, books, music, the people that I love, and great food -- my life is complete.
Oh, yeah. I gotta go to the grocery store. Rats.
This is the end of the year, clean out, get systems in order, get ready for a clean slate in January.
I am on my way to Office Depot to get what I need to clean/organize/get rid of stuff in my office and in my storage room. Although I usually dread it, I liven it up with endless movies and other things and in January I have a clean slate in which to work. I cannot work in clutter.
I'm trying to convince my sweet-pack-rat-husband to let me do some wonderful things in his office...but I don't think I'm closing the deal. He sits in the middle of his office with a round circle of piles of paper, swearing that he can find anything he needs. I have been given warnings that if I come near his stuff it could be the end of civilization as we know it. Still I try. I'd like to paint and really clean it up but I think the new year will find that part of the house still in shambles with unidentifiable clutter and piles of paper.
I haven't been doing much reading and it is beginning to show....I feel out of sorts without reading a few books..so tonight I'm going to download some things and get some other books ordered online so that I can complete my year end celebration in style. Movies, books, music, the people that I love, and great food -- my life is complete.
Oh, yeah. I gotta go to the grocery store. Rats.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)