May 15, 2008

Dear Verizon,

I will never switch my service to you for one major reason: a freakin' Christmas carol in May. Faster'n you can say "oh no they di'n't", I shut my TV down and mentally send you the stink eye and war kittens.

WTF were you thinking? I don't like the endless carols from November through (let's face it, there's seriously poor planning on many people's parts here) January. Do I need to hear this crap in May? No.

I don't care that you've changed the words to the song. It's still a damn carol and I'm really beginning to loathe you for foisting it upon me at the most non-Noel time of year.

So, basically what I'm saying, Verizon, is: bite me. Any glimmer of a chance you had at me using your services is now a "moo" point. Yes, I'm quoting Joey Tribbiani. That should tell you something. Bite me, bite me, bite me.

Verizon, you're officially on my shit list.

Insincerely,

Da Goddess

Posted by Da Goddess at 10:58 PM | Comments (2)

May 05, 2008

San Diego Happenings

Tonight is a benefit for Candye Kane down at Humphrey's Backstage Lounge. She's been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and is without insurance. She's already had her surgery and it went quite well, but there are major bills to be paid and a fairly intense recovery period when she can't be touring and earning a living. Starts at 6:30pm and goes until...

Friday -- all day -- begins the weekend-long grand opening of the new Borders store in National City. There'll be music and book signings and all sorts of prizes handed out. Meet Oliver North and Ingrid Croce and a host of others. I think I might go Friday just to get some free candy and to see Little Dude's eyes pop out of his head as he gets a load of the size of the place. Book stores are like toy stores for the brain, you know?

Saturday and Sunday are our big days around this house. Gator By The Bay! Big time fun with great music and good people. Oh, and there's food, too. LD and I are doing double duty, working with the blues society and Soldiers' Angels. And we have to squeeze in time for photos and music enjoyment. It'll be a long weekend, but I'm packing my pain pills and planning plenty of breaks to save my back.

So now that you know where to find me, are you gonna stalk me? If so, bring presents. Or at least buy me a drink or a nosh.

Posted by Da Goddess at 02:18 PM | Comments (0)

April 24, 2008

Beta Testing

One of the funny little things I did this past year was to volunteer as a beta tester for a company that produces computer games. I don't test every game, but I do try to tackle as many as possible.

This time around: a hidden object game based on a James Patterson book!

Woo hoo!

Aside from a few typos and a need for better explanations of certain types of clues, the game looks to be ready for release. The colors were great, the details were amazing, and the story was pretty darn good.

Forgoing stale TV fare, I put my brain to work today and found a good way to keep my mind off the pain. It's not much, but it's still progress in the right direction!

Posted by Da Goddess at 06:49 PM | Comments (2)

April 23, 2008

Boom De Yada

Dear Discovery Channel, er, Network,

Thank you for your great new commercial. You know, the one featuring Bear Grylls, Mike Rowe, Jamie and Adam, an egyptianologist, and a cast of many others singing the praises of our amazing world. It's no "Ahh, the Atmosphere", but it's pretty damn cool.

Imagine my surprise and delight to find a second, longer version on YouTube. (See both below*)

Discovery, A&E, and Bravo have saved my sanity, such as it is, during my confinement. Tonight's episode of Mythbusters hit close to home. They did a segment on cabin fever. Yes, that's the sound of bells ringing for them knowing exactly what I've been going through cooped up here.

Last night, of course, was Deadliest Catch. Sigh. I love the raw energy of the show. It's the real man vs. wild (no offense, Bear) aspect that keeps me on the edge of my seat and wishing each episode had an extra hour or two every week. The captains, the crews, the weather, and even the crab fascinate me. Crab fishing is brutally hard, requires a fiercely independent spirit (and some would say a death wish), and again, there's that epic battle between the adventurous men and often unruly Mother Nature. It's the best kind of reality television -- little artifice, some selective editing, and yet, it's the real lives of real men and even some women. Take that, Big Brother.

I should point out that as big a fan as I am of Captains Sig Hansen, Johnathan Hillstrand, Phil Harris, and all the rest (though in no way of less importance -- it's the meds, guys, my apologies), you will not find me on message boards discussing them, their lives, writing fan fiction, or scheming of ways to someday meet them. I leave that to the rest of their very weird, rabid fanbase. Although, I do admit that the new book from the Hillstrands looks pretty damn interesting. Anyhow, should I ever decide I really did want to meet any of them, I'd do it for portrait sessions and a subsequent book of essays on the men and their lives, natch.

After countless hours spent medicated and bored, I looked forward to evening TV. I've already seen every episode of JAG, Nash Bridges, Golden Girls, and The Nanny. The only upside to daytime is catching up on Matlock. I never watched it while it was in first run, so it's new to me now. Give me prime time TV anytime and I'm much happier.

I'm tapering off my Flexeril, Vicodin, and Tylenol with high hopes of being med-free by the weekend. I have yet to see my darling son since before he left on his trip. I'm taking baby steps forward, folks.

For now, I must return to Discover the world from my living room sofa. (Thanks to the roomie, it's actually more easily visible with an early birthday gift.)

Signed,

Your Semi-Medicated Cabin Fever Goddess

* Take your pick (I love them both)

Shorter version (the one with which I've become most familiar):



Longer version:


My favorite Discovery.com commercial ever:



Don't miss out on Fellow Partially Eaten Fish and Hello Mosquito

Posted by Da Goddess at 10:35 PM | Comments (2)

April 02, 2008

Hidden Objects

I must confess I'm addicted to Hidden Object games. What are they? Well, aside from whatever story driving the actual game, you are generally given photographs with objects added to them for you to find. Some objects are easier to locate than others, of course. Then there are mini games where you have to solve a puzzle of some sort. Most games allow you to play in timed or untimed modes.

Why tell you this? Because I actually found a photographer whose work was used in one of these games!

Posted by Da Goddess at 12:27 AM | Comments (3)

March 31, 2008

Trippin' Down Memory Lane

The Fat Guy has a sweet collection of music videos for you. Go forth and enjoy.

And just so I get to throw in my own unique little twist, here's Foghat with (my crush) Honeyboy Edwards.


And then there's Foghat with Johnny Winter and Muddy Waters.


Did you really think I'd play along and not throw in the blues? Really?

Posted by Da Goddess at 04:33 PM | Comments (0)

February 23, 2008

Best Line On TV

"I'm Betty White, bitch," as said by Betty White to Craig Ferguson. This just a few minutes after she claimed to be a drug mule.

She's 86.

Betty's a sassy dame. I love her!

Posted by Da Goddess at 01:05 AM | Comments (0)

February 11, 2008

Super Special Events Part Deux

Tis the season for super special things for Little Dude, I guess. Tonight, he will meet a genuine GRAMMY WINNER. Yes, indeedy, folks. David Honeyboy Edwards, 92 ("and a 1/2, Mom!"), is performing here this evening and LD and I are heading down to the venue early to set up a table for the blues society.

A couple weeks ago my mom wondered if this was something LD really wanted to do. He replied, "YES YES YES YES YES YES! This guy's a LEGEND! He's the best!" I looked at my mom and said, as dryly as possible, "I think this is something he might enjoy."

Hopefully we'll have better luck getting LD's mini interview questions answered this time. We're still awaiting Tab's responses via email. Oh, and to anyone concerned about this being a school night, don't be. LD's teacher is coming with us.

Now, what to wear?

Posted by Da Goddess at 01:37 PM | Comments (0)

February 09, 2008

Good Night

Tab and LD

It was a good night. Little Dude had a great time and he impressed lots of folks with his outstanding good manners and his interest in the blues. He's such a fun date.

P.S. LD says the heavy lids were from the flash and NOT because he was tired.

Posted by Da Goddess at 01:08 AM | Comments (2)

February 08, 2008

Can Do

There are many things I can't do anymore and many things I can't do for my son. It breaks my heart to not be able to buy him little things or take him places because current circumstances don't allow such things. However, there are things I can do and tonight I have managed to pull a very special, big deal sort of thing out of my hat.

I had help. One of the greatest blessings of my accident was that I found kindred musical spirits. Tonight, they help make one of my little boy's dreams come true.

Tab Benoit plays some damn fine Cajun blues. Not only that, he's also a Voice of the Wetlands All Star. Music and conservation...my kid eats this stuff up. Is it any wonder he considers Tab a hero?

I can't give my kid fancy things, go running around the baseball field with him, or so many other things I'm sure he wishes he could have or do. But I can give him moments he'll never forget. I can do this.

Posted by Da Goddess at 01:50 PM | Comments (2)

February 06, 2008

ROC for Fire Relief

Okay, here's the dealio...

Reunited Overture Concert will be happening February 23 and 24 sometime in the future at Qualcomm Stadium.

From Randy Seol:

Dear Friend,

Magic is created when old friends come together. Many old friends are hoping this magic will be transformed into substantial aid for the thousands of Southern California fire victims by helping them restore their lives. And we need your support to help us fulfill the victims’ hopes and honor the heroic fire fighters and others who came to our rescue.

My name is Randy Seol. With help from my band, The Strawberry Alarm Clock, elected San Diego officials, Qualcomm Stadium and H.M. Artist Foundation, I am organizing the “ROC” (Reunited Overture Concert). Proceeds will be donated to the San Diego Foundation’s After the Fires Fund to aid in rebuilding San Diego Communities and help the fire victims.

The event will be a two-day Music Festival Extravaganza February 23 and 24, 2008 at Qualcomm Stadium!

Join us in the company of your “old friends” and a broad arrangement of musical talent such as The Strawberry Alarm Clock, Electric Prunes, Buddy Miles, Vince Martell of Vanilla Fudge, The Ravers, Sky Saxon with The Seeds, Rose Garden, Indian Classical featuring Shri Arup Chattopadhyay (Tabla) and Shri Suman Laha (Veena), Jimmy Kunes, Jim McCarty of Cactus and Stephen Bishop as well as popular local bands.

“ROC” (Reunited Overture Concert) will bring thousands of San Diegans together to help us thank the firefighters who courageously risked their lives to put the fires out, the media who diligently kept us informed with up-to-the-minute information and the city and state officials for their quick response to our cries for help.

Only with your participation can we make this a successful and special reunion by personally thanking these individuals as we bring them on stage between acts so they can feel thousands of us cheer and applaud them for their acts of heroism and success!

Your generous charitable support will be instrumental in making this event a success. All contributions are tax deductible under H.M. Artist Foundation’s non-profit 501c3 classification. A form is enclosed with specific details. We encourage interested sponsors to sign up as soon as possible.

We look forward to hearing from you and seeing you at “ROC.” Please feel free to contact us for any additional information.

Sincerely,


Randy Seol
Daniel Hendrick

Check out Reunited Overture Concert or H.M. Artist Foundation for further info.

Posted by Da Goddess at 08:56 PM | Comments (0)

October 29, 2007

Good Things Come In Small Packages

So the mailman brought me a wonderful thing today. No, not anything essential, like money or a car. Noooo. What I got was a copy of A Journey Through the Blues: The Son Seals Story DVD for review.

Considering where my head's been (in a bad place) for the last few months, this is a godsend. Suddenly, the clouds are less gray and dense. The sun is peeking through. And I can practically hear the musicians warming up.

So much better than hanging out at grocery stores waiting for cute chefs to spice up my life, eh?

Posted by Da Goddess at 12:52 PM | Comments (2)

November 08, 2006

A Neighborhood Park All Covered in Cheese

Sports NightSports Night was good television. I mean, it was so good, it was scary. Frightening, even. The rapid-fire dialogue, the intelligent dialogue -- it was the dialogue, dialogue that occasionally hit you over the head with its brilliance that made the show. Well, the writing and casting didn't hurt.

And the thing is, I cried when it was unceremoniously dumped from ABC's lineup lo those many years ago. Sure, most of the cast went on to bigger and better gigs. I hear Felicity Huffman got some cushy job someplace, and Peter Krause did some cable show...

But really, few shows have ever matched the level of smarts this show had. Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip is damn close, in its own way, and I'm watching. Are you? Watching? Studio 60, I mean. If you liked Sports Night, you should be watching Studio 60. In fact, it was one such discussion that lead to the appearance of the complete Sports Night DVD collection to end up on my doorstep. (Thanks, Nick!) Damn if it isn't the best show I've ever had on DVD on my doorstep.

Anyhow, I just want you to know, you should be watching Studio 60 because it's the closest thing we have to Sports Night and Sports Night was brilliant. And it's not faulty logic on your part to think I'm implying Studio 60 has that same brilliance, because that's exactly my intent. So there.

Dan Rydell: I'm not distracted.
Dave: In three, two...
Dan Rydell: The Sophomore sensation accredits her agility and quick first step to her father who used to take her to a neighborhood park all covered in cheese. We'll be bringing you part two of the story tomorrow night...
[back in the Control Room]
Jeremy Goodwin: Did he just say cheese?
Elliot: He did just say cheese.
Dana Whitaker: What was it supposed to be?
Jeremy Goodwin: What was it *supposed* to be?
Natalie Hurley: Let me find it.
Jeremy Goodwin: "A park all covered with cheese"?
Dana Whitaker: I had three people talking in my ear.
Natalie Hurley: I can't find it, what block?
Kim: We just did it.
Kim: The 50's
Will: 55
Jeremy Goodwin: How about "a park all covered with trees"?
Natalie Hurley: He said cheese?
Jeremy Goodwin: Welcome to the show

______

Casey McCall: Alyson, do you know I speak four languages?
Dan Rydell: You speak three languages.
Casey McCall: I speak four languages.
Dan Rydell: You speak French, Spanish and German.
Casey McCall: I dabble in a little English.

_______

Damn if they didn't dabble amazingly in English.

Gotta go. I still have 4 discs left in the set and I need to reformat the computer. Perfect combo, if you ask me: something I love with something I hate.

Posted by Da Goddess at 04:30 PM | Comments (4)

September 26, 2006

Vod Kaknockers

I LOVE Two And A Half Men. And, if I ever find myself miraculously imbued with the ability to carry a tune artfully, I will have a band called the Vod Kaknockers.

Posted by Da Goddess at 07:26 AM | Comments (3)

August 30, 2006

Glenn Ford is Gone

Early this morning, I was unable to sleep and turned to the television for company as I often do in these situations. I happened upon Cowboy, starring Glenn Ford and Jack Lemmon, two of my favorite actors. There was an odd set of coincidences at play, I thought, because 1) just yesterday, I was looking at two photos I'd taken of Ford's son Peter last month, and 2) I'd just edited an article mentioning Jack Lemmon. Cowboy was more than Cowboy with Glenn Ford and Jack Lemmon
just a movie at the moment, it was my friend, seeing me through a couple hours of pain and sleeplessness. In thinking of Glenn Ford, by way of his son, I wondered how he was doing these days. From all accounts, he was in great spirits, even if his health was keeping him home.

Then came the news this evening of Glenn Ford's death. A little piece of me, a piece of America is gone.

Many have long associated Ford with the grand Hollywood westerns of yesteryear, myself included. My two favorites of the bunch were Cowboy and Cimarron, but my admiration for Ford's acting career didn't end there. As the embattled teacher in Blackboard Jungle, Glenn Ford fought to save young thugs from themselves as much as he fought to keep his own head above water. There was Gilda, in which Ford starred with Rita Hayworth and George Macready. When was the last time you saw such burning hatred and passion portrayed so elegantly? Speaking Glenn Fordof burning, Ford's performance as the vengeful cop in The Big Heat simmered and seared its way into my memory. On TV, in The Sacketts (with Tom Selleck and Sam Elliott), Glenn Ford was the man who provided an education the Sackett brothers needed to survive.

From Rear Admiral Spruance in Midway to Julio Desnoyers in Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, Glenn Ford was a strong dramatic presence. And yet, how could anyone overlook his more light-hearted roles in the comedy-drama Pocketful of Miracles (with Bette Davis), comedy-drama The Courtship of Eddie's Father (with Shirley Jones), the straight out comedy Imitation General (with Red Buttons), and a personal comedy favorite - Don't Go Near the Water?

Still, there is an entire generation of movie fans who would likely only recognize Glenn Ford as Jonathan Kent in 1978's Superman: The Movie, starring Christopher Reeve. Look closely in this year's Superman Returns and you'll catch a glimpse of Ford there, too. His photo rests on a piano in the reunion scene on the Kent farm.

Glenn Ford
Though I never met Glenn Ford in person, the stories his son shared with me over lunch one day will always make me remember Ford as more than an actor. He was also a father who obviously loved his son. I learned through Peter Ford of how his own record collection inspired the use of the Bill Hayley & the Comets' "Rock Around The Clock" as the theme for his father's Blackboard Jungle. In Gilda, the photo of Johnny Farrell as a baby was really a photograph of Peter. It was also from Peter Ford that I first heard about the inclusion of Glenn Ford's picture in the most recent version of Superman. It seemed apparent, in these stories, Glenn's family was never far from his mind.

Born May 1, 1916, in Quebec, Canada, Glenn Ford's family moved to Santa Monica, California in the early 1920s, where he began his journey in film. Despite his birth in Canada, Ford's American roots ran deep. One of his ancestors was none other than Martin Van Buren, the eighth president of the United States. Patriotism ran strong, with Ford serving not only in the Marines, but in the Coast Guard and the Navy Reserves as well. I'm certain most fans don't realize that Glenn Ford saw two tours of duty in Vietnam. "Among his numerous medals and commendations are the Medal of Honor, presented by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the French Legion of Honor Medal for his service in World War II, two commendation medals from the US Navy and the Vietnamese Legion of Merit."

Debbie Reynolds and Glenn FordIn addition to his four marriages (Eleanor Powell – Peter Ford's mother, Kathryn Hays, Cynthia Hayward, and Jeanne Baus), Glenn Ford's romances with Judy Garland, Brigitte Bardot, Debbie Reynolds, Hope Lange, Connie Stevens, Rita Hayworth, Joan Crawford, and Maria Schell also made the news. All were discussed in the recent Glenn Ford: A Life In Film, which was shown on the actor's 90th birthday celebration earlier this year. Medically fragile after a series of strokes, Ford was unable to attend the celebration in person, but he did make an appearance via videotape.

Glenn Ford, an American hero on screen and off, was found dead in his home. He was 90 years old. He is survived by his son Peter and daughter-in-law Lynda, their children, and friends and fans the world over.

My deepest sympathies go out to the Ford family, as well as a great debt of gratitude to Peter for sharing some of his memories of his father with me.

Posted by Da Goddess at 11:15 PM | Comments (0)

July 23, 2006

Long Distance Calls and Other Stuff

Doc in the Box called the other day. I was rather surprised to hear from him since he's in Iraq and all, but once I figured out who it was (the number was different), I was quite excited.

Sean's doing well and rarely gets to check blogs. Only three months left. Yay! I'm sure his wife is happier about this than the rest of us are, but we friends are still pretty damn happy.

Other news? It's hot in San Diego. Super duper hot. So much so, we've resorted to air conditioning. In the two and a half years I've lived in this place, I've only had the AC on once before. An out of town guest was staying with me and even he thought it was pretty freakin' hot at the time.

The AC was on today but only worked for a short time before the circuit went. It's back on now, thankfully. Sure, it's heading into the evening, but at least I can cool down for a bit before I turn it off. Maybe I'll sleep a little better.

What else? I got to meet FBL! Yes, yes, yes! She of the fantastic Project Valour-IT fundraising abilities. She is as sweet and lovely as one imagines and I'm very glad we had the chance to get together. Mrs. Smash, Gracie, Mikey, Mikey's youngster, Little Dude, FBL and I got together for a nice lunch at Souplantation. All you can eat in sumptuous air conditioned comfort. We dined, we chatted, we laughed, and then we passed around the phone to talk with Smash. (Like Doc in the Box, he'll be home in a few months, too.) And, dagnabbit, that $16 and coin for LD and I to eat in comfort for a change was more than worth it. We don't eat out often, but when we do, it's a great treat for us. The $20 I just spent on a haircut? Also a treat and also worth it. (My hair was getting too long and too hot.)

Best part of it all, FBL will be able to join our crazy group in some of our many activities. Plus, we get to join her in some of the Soldiers' Angels activities. All good things. Very good things.

That's about it for an update. I'm off to read more of Kevin Smith's blog.

Oh, and just in case anyone cares, I think the entire purpose of the TV show Lost is to take a huge, meaty-pawed swipe at Scientology. Yep. That's my theory. And if you look at all the Dharma Initiative stuff, the odd things happening, the creepy appearance of William Mapother, and the fact J.J. Abrams left Scientology, it all seems possible.

Posted by Da Goddess at 07:37 PM | Comments (7)

July 03, 2006

Ronnie Baker Brooks

Ronnie Baker Brooks
He played the blues for me

Posted by Da Goddess at 02:36 AM | Comments (0)

June 12, 2006

Project Valour IT

Imagine not being able to log onto your computer and check your email, read the news, or catch up on the latest photos of your children or other family. You want to, but your hands and arms, for whatever reason, aren't available to you. Or maybe you can't see. Good Lord, you can't see anything or use your arms! Imagine being far away from friends and family and feeling completely isolated while you lie in a hospital bed, scared. For less than $700, a wounded soldier, airman, sailor, or Marine can reconnect with loved ones, erasing the miles and much of the fear that comes with being alone while fighting to recover from severe injuries that have robbed you of your independence.

Project Valour IT makes this all possible. Or rather, Valour IT and YOU make this possible.

Less than $700 to give our wounded warriors a little independence and the gift of communication.

Amazing, isn't it?

Captain Chuck Ziegenfuss has been there. He experienced the benefits of voice activated technology as he recovered from injuries sustained in Iraq. Sergeant Elijah Allen knows how wonderful a gift these computers are, too. These men represent almost 500 others who know the power of communication as distributed by Project Valour IT and the generosity of folks like you.

I wish I had money to buy someone a computer straight out, but I'm working on a loaner myself. When I think of the independence and opportunities I have with this laptop, I can only imagine how much worse it is for someone who can't access the keyboard or see what's on the screen. Too many hours spent lying alone with no means of communication is lonely and depressing and frustrating. I would be nowhere without my borrowed laptop on days when I'm immobile. Weeks, months, and years would be completely unbearable.

If you can donate a dollar or two, that brings someone in need one step closer to independent communication. It's such an easy thing to do. So very easy. As easy as clicking on a link such as this one.

Posted by Da Goddess at 12:00 AM | Comments (3)

April 29, 2006

Remember WENN

There used to be a TV show set in the thirties or forties about a radio station. I can't, for the life of me, remember what it was called.

Remember WENN - from 1996-1998 on AMC. Cast:

Tom Beckett
C.J. Byrnes
Carolee Carmello
George Hall
Margaret Hall
John Bedford Lloyd
Melinda Mullins
Christopher Murney (as Mackie Bloom)
Amanda Naughton
Hugh O'Gorman
Kevin O'Rourke
Dina Spybey
Mary Stout

Remember WENN

Posted by Da Goddess at 09:54 AM | Comments (2)

April 21, 2006

Scribble Scrabble

Like Scrabble? There's a fun version of it online called Scribble.

You play against the entire Internet - or those who KNOW about the game. You can only play one word before you have to leave the game and move on to the next game. Hopefully someone else is playing, too, and enters new words behind you. If that happens, you get to go back to a previous game and enter a new one.

Sound confusing? It's really not. Go see for yourself.

Posted by Da Goddess at 01:54 AM | Comments (3)

March 08, 2006

Calling All TV Viewers!

Blogcritics.org is looking for excellent writers to share their opinions on anything and everything TV-related.

Here's a golden opportunity to let your star shine!

We need writers to cover the following:

We have some very talented folks covering a small fraction of shows. I enjoy reading their work and I wish I had even more to read. I would love to have more participation in the TV section. Can you tell? More than that, I'd really like to see many new stars shine on Blogcritics.org.

If you, or someone you know, possess excellence in the field of writing and like to opine on all things television, let me know!

Posted by Da Goddess at 06:08 AM | Comments (6)

December 07, 2005

Warped - That's Me

Because my inner child doesn't really exist, I must indulge the outer child and revisit all the golden oldies. Yes, I'm repeating myself. It's Old-Timers for the under-40 set, m'kay?

I was showing a friend these the other day and he didn't get the appeal. He's almost as warped as I am so I'm rather stymied as to how he failed to see the brilliance of the following:

For Scott, the Fat Guy - It's Peanut Butter Jelly Time! (Just know that this is all his fault anyway.)

For no reason other than I laugh hysterically everytime - Spiderman will make you gay.

And, last, but not least - Trogdor!

P.S. I want a Trogdor sticker for my new car that Santa just HAS to bring me.

Posted by Da Goddess at 01:13 PM | Comments (3)

December 06, 2005

Anthony Gomes

Anthony Gomes

The Anthony Gomes Band was playing their hearts out. The lighting was momentarily quite bright when I shot this. Anthony's a bit obscured by the light and takes on a sort of rockin' blues heavenly being appearance. I kind of like it.

Lending an even more angelic cast to this artist, he was the ultimate gentleman and host during a recent three day run. Gotta love a skinny white guy who treats everyone with respect and kindness and can sing like an old Delta bluesman.

P.S. Gomes rhymes with "homes"

Posted by Da Goddess at 05:11 AM | Comments (1)

The Joe Bonamassa Band

Joe Bonamassa Rocks!

Mark Epstein

Bogie Bowles

Big changes in the line-up for the Joe Bonamassa Band as Kenny Kramme (drums) and Eric Czar (bass) move on to other projects. The new drummer is Bogie Bowles and the new bassist is Mark Epstein. While the band's overall personality has shifted a bit, the music still kicks ass!

Posted by Da Goddess at 04:58 AM | Comments (1)

November 29, 2005

Barbara Walters Cracks

The most fascinating person of 2005, according to Barbara Walters, was Camilla Parker Bowles.

Walters must be smoking crack or something if she considers Bowles all that and a bag of chips. (The kids still say that, don't they?)

Basically, all it takes to be "fascinating" is inspire someone to want to be your tampon. While my lovers haven't used those exact words, they have expressed a desire to know me as intimately as possible. And some of them have. One or two lucky ones know me better than anyone else ever has. I've never had one want to be my tampon, though. I still don't get how that could ever come across as affectionate or sexy.

Sigh.

Camilla Freakin' Parker Bowles. Yeah. Right.

Posted by Da Goddess at 10:52 PM | Comments (8)

November 01, 2005

Cruise - New Child-Bearing Expert?

No More Tom Cruise!
Move over Dr. Spock, Tom Cruise is the new expert on all things child-bearing and -rearing. What a wanker!

The last time Brooke Shields had a baby, her battle with...postpartum depression inspired her to write a book about the roller coaster ride called motherhood...announced this week that she is with child again and expects to give birth in the spring. The news must have Tom Cruise foaming at the mouth. The actor slammed Shields over her use of anti-depressants during her postpartum depression period. Since he is now promoting "silent" births for all future mothers, including Katie Holmes, to make sure that newborns enter the world in peace and silence, it won't be long before he takes on Shields again.

Can we make this "silent" birth thing retroactive? Or should we just duct tape Tom's mouth shut? His nose, too.

I'm with Tony Danza:

The talk show host says, "I'm a little upset about this. Here's a guy out there lecturing people about drugs, but out of wedlock births don't seem to bother him.

"He's never [appearing on] my show, so it doesn't matter."

He adds, "I'm happy for them, but we're going to send them to Maury (Povich's show) for a DNA test.

Tommy Boy is such a freakin' putz. I'd like to see the results of that paternity test. Any wagers on the DNA?

I'm so over Cruise. Not that I was ever under* him, but you know what I mean.

* Bonus points for the person who knows from whence the quote came.

Posted by Da Goddess at 01:50 AM | Comments (14)

September 18, 2005

Denny Crane and Magnolias

This post shall also be known as:
I Live Blogged My Favorite Parts of the Emmys and, No, It Doesn't Necessarily Make Sense

William Shatner won the Emmy for Best Supporting Actor in a Dramatic Series.

I'm glad. He was my pick. It was either Shatner or Terry O'Quinn of Lost.

Other highlights included:

I could do without:

Anyone surprised by the Best Comedy Series award going to Everybody Loves Raymond needs to get a clue. Over the years, the show has been consistently funny. This last season ended with their only truly weak episode. And, yes, the show's departure had something to do with the win.

So there we have it. The Emmys as they mattered to me. Still...

After an evening of glitter and glam, there remain two lingering questions:

1) With all these "great" actors around, why re they so completely awkward and, let's face it, in many cases, downright painful to watch them deliver their schtick before introducing the nominees? (Charlie Sheen, you should be ashamed of yourself! A spanking is in order. To my room - NOW!)

2) What the hell is Fergie doing in Black Eyed Peas? I mean, is she supposed to be the token white or something?

It's time for you to answer my questions and then get your butts to bed. Tomorrow's a work/school/ditch/slack day. I'll dock your allowance if you disobey me. Or you'll end up in my room with Charlie Sheen. (Okay, okay. Craig Ferguson's there, too. Shhhh! It's a secret.)

Posted by Da Goddess at 08:22 PM | Comments (3)

August 30, 2005

The Blues Brothers - 25 Years Later and Still Going Strong

audience
The Blues Brothers, while wonderful on TV, is so much better on the super-sized screen of a movie theater. That won't stop me from picking up the 25th Anniversary edition (out today) of the movie on DVD. The extras alone should be well worth the money.

The special one-evening-only screening of The Blues Brothers included a pre-movie panel with John Landis (director, co-writer, and fan of the Blues Brothers Band), James Brown ("have you seen the light?"), Steve Cropper (one of my schoolgirl crushes for oh-so-many years), Henry Gibson (his performance as Head Nazi was perfect), and Thom Mount (who was President of Universal Studios when Blues Brothers was made and oversaw production on the film). Dan Aykroyd (Elwood Blues) beamed in via satellite.

henry gibson
The panel, hosted by Gordon Meyer of "Hollywood's Master Storytellers", shared many memories of John Belushi (Joliet Jake Blues), the making of the movie, the music, as well as updating the audience on some of their current projects. At one point, James Brown asked Dan Aykroyd about filming a movie together, with Jim Belushi, down in Louisiana. The Blues Brothers III, perhaps? Ah, speculation abounds. Regardless of whether or not there's another sequel on the way, it's safe to say that any project that brings the talents of Aykroyd and Brown to the screen would be a real treat for fans.

james brown
Watching the movie on the big screen again (yes, I'm very much old enough to have seen it in a theater when it first came out - several times, in fact) took me right back to those teen years. I clearly recall my fascination with Cropper and John Lee Hooker back then. Okay, it hasn't diminished a bit on either count, but we're talking about the movie, right? Right. The performances by the Blues Brothers Band, Hooker, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, Cab Calloway, and James Brown served to solidify my love for blues, classic R&B, and soul. I mean, I grew up on the music of the 60's and 70's. I know I'm not alone in saying that The Blues Brothers stoked the blues fire within me. And maybe that's the best thing about the movie - that the actors and musicians cultivated an interest in the blues, sort of an extension of the blues revival that occurred several years earlier.

One of the things I'm most looking forward to seeing on the DVD will be the deleted scenes. To be included is a scene that explains the magic of the Bluesmobile. I could tell you about it now, but that would ruin the surprise.

Enjoy The Blues Brothers - 25th Anniversary Edition now available on DVD. While you're at it, go grab some blues CDs, too. Trust me, it's good for the soul.

My CD picks are included on my BlogCritics post

All photos courtesy of Universal Studios Home Entertainment and FilmMagic.com

Posted by Da Goddess at 02:13 AM | Comments (2)

August 29, 2005

Guess What I'm Doing Tonight

"It's 106 miles to Chicago, we've got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it's dark and we're wearing sunglasses. Hit it."

This is the perfect event for me to cover for BlogCritics. I don't have to drive more than a couple miles, I don't have to stand for long. And I've discovered that I actually like the available seating.

I'll let you know how it goes. Hopefully I won't fall asleep while I'm there.

Posted by Da Goddess at 03:08 PM | Comments (2)

August 13, 2005

That Head of Yours Couldn't Hold Straw!

Yeah, well, who wants a head of straw anyway?

For some reason I got to thinking about a particular movie and some of the lines I remembered. Lines like these:

Does the Hash Knife Outfit throw in its hand? Or do we go out in a blaze of glory?

and

You couldn't sell a hacksaw in a jail!

I would have included more quotes, but it seems like Googling the best lines bring up the movie right away.

An even stranger movie I was thinking about contained this quote:

The clue obviously lies in the word "cheddar." Let's see now. Seven letters. Rearranged, they come to, let me see: "Rachedd." "Dechdar." "Drechad." "Chaderd" - hello, chaderd! Unless I'm very much mistaken, chaderd is the Egyptian word meaning "to eat fat." Now we're getting somewhere!

Worse still, I remember this tagline from a film made around the same time: Introducing The Dog Who Launched a Thousand Stars

Posted by Da Goddess at 03:04 AM | Comments (0)

July 13, 2005

Bueller Post #18592

If we had never met

and the world got on without us

Just as if we were never here at all....

I always hoped for this to become a full-fledged song instead of a fifty-six second bit of heaven on television.

Know what it's from? Anyone?

Posted by Da Goddess at 11:37 PM | Comments (3)

July 07, 2005

Chasing Elvis by Glenn Marcel

If Elvis hadn’t died in 1977, do you think he’d be a bank robber?

That’s what one cop thinks. As he chases down leads, he sets in motion a chain of events that introduce us to some interesting characters and take us from Memphis to British Columbia, and from Los Angeles to London.

Chasing Elvis is a fun novel with more twists and turns than a Six Flags roller coaster. It exposes the inner workings behind some of the stranger tabloid headlines. It also examines the continued fascination millions have for Elvis Presley. Marcel transcends mere fan fiction with rich, intriguing characters, drama, humor, and most of all hope.

In a world where cultural icons fall left and right, it’s refreshing to pick up Chasing Elvis and remember that things may not be as they appear.

Glenn Marcel has a genuine knack for real dialogue, true-to-life characters, a believable plot, and gives us a thoroughly enjoyable novel. Chasing Elvis is funny, touching, heartfelt, and just plain fun - all the ingredients for ideal summer reading.

Posted by Da Goddess at 04:36 PM | Comments (3)

A Son Called Gabriel by Damian McNicholl

Set in Ireland in the 60's and 70's, A Son Called Gabriel is a touching and honest coming-of-age tale replete with rich, genuine characters and an overall brilliant story.

Gabriel is but a boy when we first meet him. His family is like many found around the world and the reader can immediately identify with Gabriel's love, fascination, and frustration with them and the secrets they hold.

The growing conflict between Catholics and Protestants of the time mirror the conflict within Gabriel as he makes his way through adolescence. Principle, desire, and autonomy are all a part of this young man's struggles, things to which most of us can relate.

Damian McNicholl has a wonderful gift and I'm grateful he chose to share it with us. McNicholl effectively weaves family, politics, and approaching adulthood deftly into a compelling novel. He never overwrites or imposes a broader scope to the story than one would expect from Gabriel himself. After all, it is Gabriel's tale. We don't know his family's secrets until he does. His family knows not of his until he is ready to come to grips with them.

Beautifully crafted, honestly told, and hauntingly heartbreaking with a gentle dash of humor A Son Called Gabriel is simply one of the best books I've read in years. Be ready to share your copy with friends or be prepared to buy more - and now that the book has been released in paperback, you can afford it.

Also posted at BlogCritics.org

Posted by Da Goddess at 03:18 PM | Comments (0)

June 16, 2005

Book Review - Losing Hope

Hope Evans has it all – a wonderful loving husband, a beautiful little girl, a nice home in the suburbs, and a fabulous job that utilizes all her talents. Everything is perfect, until the morning she forgets her purse and her cell phone.

Car trouble forces Hope to the side of the road. Stranded, Hope's decision to seek help turns her frustrating morning into her worst nightmare. Forced into a life she didn't choose, she struggles to come to grips with her new surroundings.

While her husband searches desperately for her, Hope fights memories of the safety of the home and family she loves in order to survive. Can she suppress the repulsion she feels for her captor enough to be convincing? Follow along as Hope's husband and the authorities race against time – before Hope is lost forever.


I actually read Losing Hope straight through in a scant two-and-a-half hours. The dialog is stilted at the beginning and there are a couple of passages that are a bit awkward, but the story pulls you in and carries you along with more ease than I had anticipated after the first two chapters. While I didn't care for the last chapter, the final paragraph in particular, Morning Todd has created a fairly compelling story perfect for the beach, poolside, or an extended flight. With her first novel under her belt, it will be interesting to see where Martha Morning Todd goes from here.

Losing Hope
Martha Morning Todd
Book from iUniverse, Inc.
Release date: 06 March, 2005

Also posted at BlogCritics.org

Posted by Da Goddess at 03:37 AM | Comments (1)

May 25, 2005

Paris Kerfuffle

Well, some people in California got their knickers in a twist over the Carl's Jr. ad featuring Paris Hilton. They're claiming the ad extremely offensive, claiming the ad is little more than soft-core porn.

The commercial shows Hilton vamping in a revealing swimsuit as she soaps and rinses a black Bentley. She also takes a bite out of a Carl's Jr. hamburger. The commercial ends with Hilton's signature tag line, "that's hot."

To me, the only thing offensive about the commercial is that we're supposed to believe that Paris actually eats, let alone is eating something from Carl's. And her actually washing a car?? Ridiculous. As if!

Aren't her 15 minutes up already?

Speaking of Paris, excuse me while I go scrape lizard guts off my patio. Seems I ran over a lizard that had taken refuge under my garbage can the other night.

Posted by Da Goddess at 09:23 AM | Comments (8)

May 16, 2005

Squab

Quite possibly the best episode of "Two and a Half Men" ever tonight.

Sure, scoff if you want, but it's true. From beginning to end, it had us laughing our asses off.

After the anti-climactic ending of "Everybody Loves Raymond", it was just what the doctor ordered. Now, don't get me wrong - "Raymond" is normally top notch entertainment. However, aside from small sweet moments, the finale wasn't what I was expecting. Frankly I preferred the pre-show behind-the-scenes show.

Back to "Men." The whole bit with Jake was absolutely priceless. The sushi, the squab, the spaghetti, the tub, and, in a moment of inspired genius, the closing theme song.

I love when T.V. is done well.

Chuck Lorre deserves the golden squab for this one.

Posted by Da Goddess at 11:11 PM | Comments (8)