MOVIES AND SERIES 2021

You all know I binge tons of movies and shows. This is a list without any rhyme or reason as to order. I will try and be succinct, but there is so much to watch and discuss. So here goes! MOVIES I RECOMMEND Hillbilly Elegy-Netflix. This superb cast includes Glenn Close and Amy Adams. Directed by Ron Howard. True Story about a Yale Law Student who leaves his Kentucky hometown, but is torn between his family history and his own future. Somewhat manipulative, but worth a watch. Sound Of Metal-Amazon Prime. Riz Ahmed and Dakota Johnson. Story about a drummer who loses his hearing. A powerful movie that addresses deafness, addiction, and events that can alter your life forever. One Night in Miami-Amazon Prime. An excellent movie with fabulous acting. The story follows the night of Feb. 25, 1964 when four famous black men discuss the civil rights movement after Mohammed Ali defeats Sonny Liston. Loved this. Promising Young Woman-Rent On Demand. All star cast. It's a thriller/comedy that deals with sexual assault. Carey Mulligan is academy award worthy in this role. Warning-it's not easy to watch! But it is very good. Ma Rainey'a Black Bottom-Netflix. This is Chadwick Boseman's last performance before his death. Exceptional acting by him and Viola Davis. Great adaptation of August Wilson play. Very enjoyable. Sylvie's Love-Amazon Prime. A touching romantic movie with great music as a bonus. A beautiful love story. Our Friend-To Rent. This is a true story about a friend who chooses to put his own life on hold while helping his best friend care for two daughters and a dying wife. I am not going to lie. This is horribly depressing, but the acting by Jason Segel is astonishingly great. Casey Affleck and Dakota Johnson are excellent as well. Powerful and heartbreaking, but very well done. The Wilde Wedding-Amazon. Although Rotten Tomatoes panned this, I enjoyed this movie about a retired movie star who is about to embark on her fourth marriage. The cast is fabulous: Glenn Close, John Malkovich, Patrick Stewart, Minnie Driver and many others. If you are a Malkovich fan, this is such fun to watch! The Half of It-Netflix. A well done movie about the only Asian student in Squahamish, Washington. It offers themes of isolation, homosexuality, friendship and love in a beautifully written movie. I really liked it. The Trial of Chicago 7-Netflix. Powerful. Great acting. Aaron Sorkin directs this movie about the infamous 1969 trial of seven defendants charged with conspiracy at the 1968 Democratic National Convention. Mesmerizing and one of Sorkin's better projects. OK-STILL BORED? NEED MORE MOVIES TO WATCH EVEN THOUGH THESE AREN'T FIRST RATE? NEXT TIER.... Fundamentals of Caring-Netflix. Paul Rudd becomes a caretaker for a disabled teen. They embark on adventures and a true friendship forms which leads to hope for the both of them. Good enough, so invest the time. Rebecca-Netflix. A decent remake with an interesting cast. Armie Hammer, Lily James, and Kristin Scott. All the more interesting with the current cannibalism and affair rumors swirling around Hammer! Definitely held my attention. The Assistant-Hulu. Julia Garner(Ozark) is brilliant in this film about an assistant at a film production company and the unfair and immoral treatment she receives from an abusive male boss. Hard to watch and slow, but she is amazing. Forty Year Old Version-Netflix. Not for everyone. This has gotten a lot of good press. A semi autobiographical story about a fledgling playright who reinvents herself as a rapper. Never Rarely Sometimes Always-HBO MAX. A teen is faced with an unplanned pregnancy and needs to travel across state lines for an abortion. Thought provoking and emotional. Fatale-Rent. Thriller with Hillary Swank and Michael Ealy. Swank is a police detective who seduces Ealy. An intricate psychological tale. Keeps you guessing the entire time and holds your attention. Scary! The Boy Downstairs-Amazon or Hulu. The main draw here is Zosia Mamet. After living in Europe, she moves back to NYC and unknowingly rents an apartment in the same building as her ex boyfriend. Slow, a bit boring, but I stayed with it. DON'T BOTHER WITH THESE UNLESS YOU ARE VERY BORED......SKIP IT!! Holidate-Netflix. Two single strangers make a pact to become each other's dates all year long so they don't have to spend special occasions alone. Lame. Palm Springs-Hulu. Kind of like Groundhog Day. Two wedding guests relive the same day over and over again. Insufferable! Midnight Sky-Netflix. Even George Clooney couldn't save this sci fi movie about a scientist in the Arctic who needs to contact a space crew that are returning home to find a strange global castastrophe. Slow and boring. I needed Nespresso! MOVIES I HAVEN'T SEEN BUT LOOKING FORWARD TO WATCHING: Nomadland-Hulu 2/19. Frances McDormand. Nominated for 4 Golden Globes. Homeless woman travels America in search for work and is living hand to mouth. McDormand is always first rate. Palmer-Apple TV+ 1/29. Released prisoner and ex high school football star returns home and tries to put his life back in order. Justin Timberlake stars. Music-in movie theaters and on demand on 2/12. Kate Hudson stars in this movie which is co-written by Sia. It has been stirring up controversy due to Sia's portrayal of Autism, and her responses (on twitter) to the criticism. French Exit-Netflix 2/26. Michelle Pfeiffer, Lucas Hedges and Tracy Letts. A socialite moves with her son from New York to Paris after her husband dies. The Soul-Disney+. Animated film about a middle school teacher who wants to reunite his body and soul after they somehow become separated. Supposedly good for kids over 5 and adults too. Getting rave reviews! WE ALL KNOW WHAT'S COMING NEXT-NOT IN THE MOOD FOR A MOVIE? BINGE A SERIES AND OF COURSE, EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT.... Bridgerton-Netflix. Period piece during the Regency era in 'England. All I can say is Rege-Jean Page! He,alone, is worth the watch. A sight for sore eyes....Season 2 coming this Spring. *****THE GREAT-Hulu. I am going out on a limb here! This is a bold declaration! This series is the best that I have watched in several years. It's clever, quirky, fun, well written and a complete hoot. Loved every second and was so sad to finish the 10 episodes. Elle Fanning plays Catherine the Great in 18th Century Russia. Beyond Fabulous. Hope you love it as much as I did. The Surgeon's Cut-Netflix. Similar to Lenox Hill, this four part docuseries profiles four brilliant surgeons from around the world and their innovative procedures. Excellent. Call My Agent-Netflix. A fictional Paris talent firm showcasing the agents and their famous clients. The famous French actors actually play themselves. Entertaining and fun. I Especially emjoyed the Paris scenery in the background scenes. Pen15(penis-get it?)-Hulu. This is definitely not for many of my friends. It is a comedic series based on middle school's awkward social situations. The ups and downs of middle school life-which for me was the worst time ever! I totally loved this series, but it's not for everyone. Don't say I didn't warn you. Lovesick-Netlix. Twenty something Dylan finds out he has Chlamydia and must contact all his previous relationships to tell them he has a sexually transmitted disease. Funny, emotional, and clever. By now, I am hoping many of you have received your first (and possibly your second) Covid Vaccine. Spring is around the corner and although we will definitely continue masking, maybe we can be a little less stressed; a little more hopeful; and a lot more social. I can't wait to chat with all of you in person about everything we have watched. In the meantime, please stay safe and well. Happy Valentine's Day! Peace Out-One B

GULLIBLE LEMMINGS

The other day while taking a walk with my husband, he used a term I had not heard before. He was referring to the protesting thugs destroying the Capitol (and the millions of Trump supporters who believe his lie that he won the election), as "gullible lemmings." When I looked this term up, it described gullible lemmings as "not only believing the villain(s) (Trump), but actively trying to help them. They aren't Mooks or Les Collaborateurs, just regular citizens being what they think is a Heroic Bystander. If the villain is persuasive enough, everyone in the village, town, city, country, or any other kind of community will support them." For the past four years, we have listened to Trump tell lie after lie and most Republicans were not brave enough or principled enough to stand up to him, to call him out for his bigotry, to reprimand him for his lack of empathy, and for his delusional rants. They were complicit and therefore, just as much to blame for the insurrection that occured last Wednesday. It was more important for them to retain their base than to tell the world the truth. "Somebody had tipped the American continent like a pinball machine and all the goofballs had come roling to LA (substitute Washington) in the southwest corner. I cried for all of us. THERE WAS NO END TO THE AMERICAN SADNESS AND THE AMERICAN MADNESS." Jack Kerouac sums up Jan. 6th perfectly. So many quotes pertain to the insanity, the dishonesty, the ignorance, and bigotry that this country has endured for the past four years. I feel the need to vent and to share before we hopefully, regain some peace, kindness, empathy, and morals that will be reinstated into the Whitehouse on January 20th. Won't it be nice to not have Trump dominate every waking minute of the news? "It's the end of the world as we know it, and I feel fine." R.E.M. "We will all remember for the rest of our lives where we were on January 6th when Trump held America hostage." Oliver Markus Malloy Just as we all remember where we were when President Kennedy was shot, or when the World Trade towers went down on 9/11. The difference here is that our own President incited this insurrection. His rally and his words were the direct cause of five deaths, and the mass destruction of the Capitol building. Trump, his son, and Giulianni have blood on their hands and are directly responsible. Ironically, Trump has dumped Giuliani and now refuses to pay his legal fees. He has cast him aside because he no longer proves useful. Why is this not a surprise? 'Most people seem to get bored easly when havng an easy life, and need to feed on drama and conflicts to feel alive. They are like vampires and zombies, that feed on the anger of others. The flesh and blood is replaced here by life energy. Now, the main point here is that toxic woman and toxic men do make us sick. With a mentally sick person in our life, you can't make plans for the future. It's impossible to make plans when teaming with people that are too obsessed with conflicts and selfish needs And hopefully, there will come a time when such individuals are segregated from society and put in mental hospitals. (Robin Sacredfire). Mar a Lago is a bit like a mental hospital, don't you agree? Albert Einstein said, "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." At this minute, there are unpricipled Republicans who still believe Trump can change, that he shouldn't be impeached, and that he will go quietly and there will be a peaceful transition. Not happening.... Einstein also said, that "the measure of intelligence is the ability to change." He's incapable. Trump is also a true egotist= "a person of low taste, more interested in himself than me." (Ambrose Bierce) He is also a bigot, ignorant, greedy and a buffoon. "Anyway, no drug, not even alcohol, causes the fundamental ills of society. If we're looking for the source of our troubles, we shouldn't test people for drugs. We should test them for stupidity, ignorance, greed and love of power." (P.J. O'Rourke) "NO DIVINE BOVINE! The clumsy creature currently inhabiting the White House is a distinctly dangerous animal. Part boneheaded raging bully, part dastardly coward showing signs of advanced mad cow disease. Neither of good pedigree nor useful breeding stock, there is essentially very little of substance between the T (bone) and the RUMP, except of course for an abundance of methane and bullshit. It's high time brave matadors of you to enter the bullring, withh nimble step and fleet of foot. Bring down this marauding beast once and for all. A louder cheer you will not hear from Madrid to Mexico City,from Beijing to Brussels, from London to Lahore, from Toronto to Tehran and ten thousand cities in between." Alex Moritt A change will come. Our country has always had hope and resilence. "The sun never quits shining. Sometimes clouds just get in the way." Unknown "It is during our darkest moments that we must focous to see the light." Aristotle "You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm nt the only one. I hope someday you'll join us. And the world will live as one." John Lennon So here we are - 7 days away from a new beginning. I am rejoicing. I cannot wait! If you have gotten through the rant of this blog and "If you're reading this...... Congratulations, you're alive. If that's not something to smile about, then I don't know what is." Chad Sugg Be well. Stay safe. PEACE OUT! ONE B

I REMEMBER WHEN

After this horrendous year, I have recently been reminicing with fond memories of years past. I REMEMBER WHEN: I spent $50 a week on blowouts for my hair. Now I spend that on Covid Rapid Tests, so I can gear up in PPE and visit with my mom in her assisted living facility. I REMEMBER WHEN: The only "things" in cages were the animals at the zoo. Now we see the horrendous sight of children at the border separated from their parents. I REMEMBER WHEN: Television is what we used to watch all day in our pj's on a "snow day". Now I watch t.v. in my sweats much of the day because everyday is just like a snow day. No more gym, no more errands, no more visiting friends, no more playing with grandchildren.... I REMEMBER WHEN: A snow day was the ONLY day you worked from home! I REMEMBER WHEN: My weekly grocery order was $100. Now my weekly order exceeds $300. I REMEMBER WHEN: Cashmere gloves were "de riguer" to keep our hands warm. Now we don rubber gloves to keep the nasty virus at bay. I REMEMBER WHEN: At home tests were ept pregnancy tests. Now they are the coveted $30 covid tests (coming soon to your local pharmacy). I REMEMBER WHEN: Immigrants were our grandparents and they were welcomed into the U.S. with open arms, because they would make our country stronger and brighter. Now they are shunned by cement walls at the borders. I REMEMBER WHEN: Creating and preparing an interesting home cooked meal was something I looked forward to. Now I can't stand to be in the kitchen one more second. I REMEMBER WHEN: Air Filters were used to remove cooking smells. Today we use them to be safer from air born covid germs. I REMEMBER WHEN: Waiting at the restaurant bar for an hour until my table was ready was annoying. Today I yearn for that long wait and socializing with strangers for any amount of time! I REMEMBER WHEN: Friends and Family Discount meant 25% off at Bloomies. NOT pardoning murderers, tax evaders, convicted inside traders, and convicted felons. I REMEMBER WHEN:I REMEMBER WHEN: A snow day was the ONLY day you worked from home! I REMEMBER WHEN: My weekly grocery order was $100. Now my weekly order exceeds $300. I REMEMBER WHEN: Cashmere gloves were "de riguer" to keep our hands warm. Now we don rubber gloves to keep the nasty virus at bay. I REMEMBER WHEN: At home tests were ept pregnancy tests. Now they are the coveted $30 covid tests (coming soon to your local pharmacy). I REMEMBER WHEN: Immigrants were our grandparents and they were welcomed into the U.S. with open arms, because they would make our country stronger and brighter. Now they are shunned by cement walls at the borders. I REMEMBER WHEN: Creating and preparing an interesting home cooked meal was something I looked forward to. Now I can't stand to be in the kitchen one more second. I REMEMBER WHEN: Air Filters were used to remove cooking smells. Today we use them to be safer from air born covid germs. I REMEMBER WHEN: Waiting at the restaurant bar for an hour until my table was ready was annoying. Today I yearn for that long wait and socializing with strangers for any amount of time! I REMEMBER WHEN: Friends and Family Discount meant 25% off at Bloomies. NOT pardoning murderers,tax evaders,convicted inside traders, and convicted felons. I REMEMBER WHEN: Christmas Day meant a 4:00 p.m. movie followed by a delicious Chinese feast with my children and grandchildren (and every other Jewish family in America). I REMEMBER WHEN: New Year's Eve was spent dining and drinking with my dear friends and toasting each other at midnight before we made our way back home. Hop

It's Been a Minute, or has it been an hour, a day, oh actually it's been 9 months.....

Hi everyone, It seems incredible that with all this time on my hands and so much time being spent isolating and indoors, I haven't written a blog in a while. But with the holidays approaching, we have the need to purchase Chanukah and Christmas gifts, the time to shop online, and the vacation days to binge movies and programs. Not surprisingly, I have long lists of ideas of gifts to shop for, and many suggestions for shows and movies to keep you busy on cold winter covid days. I will jump right into the product list! FOOD GIFTS goldbelly.com-they offer anything from bagels, to ribs and steaks, to desserts. You can purchase food all from the MOST exceptional purveyors. You cannot go wrong with a present from goldbelly for anyone who is a foodie. Nuts.com-customize your own tray if you want. Or jut pick your favorite fruits, nuts, or candy. Everyone is happy to have these snacks! In the Mix by Joanna-now creating some very cool Chanukah and Christmas options. Joanna does beautiful cookies. Check her out. Good Vibes Cookie Company-Check out the Rock the Bells cookie box! The cookies appear to be painted with very pretty crystals. It's a lovely idea for Xmas. No SIX DEPOT(sixdepot.com)-if you prefer ground coffee (not the pods), then this company offers many amazing varieties in whole bean, drip, expresso and french press. This is the real deal. Also they offer great teas. Reasonable price and a great gift for coffee aficionados. Nueske's Bacon-Who doesn't think bacon makes everything better? This company has fabulous breakfast baskets or many individual specialty bacon gifts! Great to wake up on Christmas morning to this enticing smell! Murray's Cheese-You can choose from the cheese of the month subscription to a multitude of gift baskets that include cheese, meats, crackers, olives, etc. Another terrific present that people love, and is great for cocktails! Three Babes Bake Shop-Supposedly the pie to buy is their bourbon pecan pie. They are based in San Francisco, so make sure to order soon! PRODUCTS THAT ARE MY FAVS Little Weirds-Book by Jenny Slate. $15.99 on Amazon. Can't describe it-just buy it! Scrabble Go-the new and updated version of the world's most favorite game. Will occupy you for hours. Brookstone digital frame-$69 on Amazon. Great for grandparents! You can upload many photos of the grandkids and they have exhibit a multitude of pics in one frame. Awesome! (but only if you do the setup before presenting it!) Mini projector by Apeman-$69.99 on Amazon. Home projector so you can watch a movie on a large wall or outside. Might be a fun experience for your kids and their friends. Grab the popcorn! Anne Sisteron Sunburst Necklace-annesisteron.com. This neckalace just makes you feel happy! But, All jewelry makes me feel happy! The mini is $825 and the larger is $1535. Choose from white or rose gold. I think the the white looks cool. Monica Rich Kosann Compass Jewelry-monicarichkosann.com. All of us could use some guidance and direction during this scary time. Her compass charms, pendants, and earrings are very pretty. I especially like the blue enamal ones. Priced from $395-$8,000. Suzanne Kalan-suzannekalan.com. Her baguette jewelry is the bomb. If you want to go for the big bucks, check out her large eternity bands! Love her look. Funky and classy. Ana Luisa Dome Ring-analuisa.com. The brass dome ring is perfect for your second or middle finger. As a fan of Pommelato's Iconica ring ($2360), this brass ring bathed in 14k gives me the same feel and it comes in sizes 4-12, and it's just $59. It's a great accessory. Reading Eggs Junior App-readingeggs.com. This app is a great way to help your little ones read. It's fun and engaging with lots of activities and games. With the covid era, and kids hanging home more this is a lifesaver for parents. I reccomend it highly. Jenni Kane clothing-jennikayne.com-great easy to wear clothing. I especially love the everyday sweater which comes in tons of colors and stripes. $145. Her oversized cardigans are fabulous too. Dudley Stephens clothing-dudley-stephens.com. They make a super warm vello fleece top in many styles. Personally, I like the Greenpoint turtleneck because the length comes to the hip as opposed to their Park Slope style which is a bit shorter. Beware-most colors are sold out! I would size up if you are unsure. $158. Great for the outdoor socially distant visits with friends and family. (shout out to Dani!) MOVIES AND SERIES TO BINGE DURING THE WINTER MOVIES An American Pickle-HBO MAX. Seth Rogen stars. A cute distraction. Story is about an Orthodox Jew who is preserved in pickle brine for 100 years and wakes up in NYC in search of his great grandson, also played by Seth Rogen. Super Intelligence-HBO MAX. Melissa McCarthy and Bobby Cannavale star in this silly flick about super intelligence selecting the most average person on Earth to study. Wasn't my thing, but it just might entertain you for a few hours. Boys In The Band-Netflix. Nice remake of the original movie. Great Cast: Matt Bomer, Jim Parsons, and Andrew Rannells. You remember the 1968 movie when a visitor interrupts the evening party being hosted by a group of gay men. Very well done. Happiness Season-Hulu. Kristen Stewart and Daniel Levy. First ever Lesbian rom-com. Not a great movie, but I am desperate for something to watch! Rewind-Amazon Prime. Documentary about a child who discovers through home video all the sexual abuse that occured within his family. You may remember, Howard Nevison, the prominent Cantor of Temple Emanuel in NYC. He was just one of the three brothers who abused his nephew, the filmmaker. Harrowing, mesmerizing, and important to watch. Let Him Go-a rental starring Kevin Costner(my favorite) and Diane Lane. Following the death of their son, a couple leaves their ranch to rescue their young grandson from a mob-like family living in the Dakotas. Scary, entertaining, and I liked it. But, it is more of a made for tv movie than one that was released for the cinema. SERIES Queen's Gambit-Netflix. An orphan with an addiction problem becomes the greatest chess player in the world. I am sure most of you have watched this (62 million households in the first 28 days), because it is getting so much buzz. While it is compelling and charming; and a series I recommend, I wasn't as enamored as the rest of the world. Industry-HBO. Streaming now. A series about International Finance. Having a hard time getting into it, but taping it for a later attempt. The Crown-Netflix. I binged the new season in one day. Always interesting and great. Gillian Anderson as Princess Margaret, Emma Corrin as Lady Di, and Helena Bonham Carter as Princess Margaret were my favorites. Dash and Lily-Netflix. Another undeserving 100% on Rotten Tomatoes. A romance ensues base upon a notebook being passed back and forth with clues. Very mediocre. The Undoing-HBO. For my money, the best series I've watched in months. Unpredictable plot and superb acting by Nicole Kidman, Hugh Grant, and Donald Sutherland. Was so sad when it ended. The Flight Attendant-HBO MAX. Rosie Perez and Kaley Cuoco (from Big Bang) who is really fantastic as a flight attendant involved in a murder. Opening episode is the Bomb and not what you are expecting. So far, I'm loving it. A Teacher-Hulu. Stars Kate Mara as the teacher who engages in an illicit sexual affair with her student. Mara is amazing in this trashy and juicy series. A great distraction during Covid isolation. Euphoria-HBO. Season 2 isn't out, but there is a special covid episode streaming now on HBO MAX. Zendaya won the emmy award for lead actress in a drama for her role as Rue. She is phenomenalthis girl can act. Keep your eyes out for season 2 coming soon. The Surgeon's Cut-Netflix Dec 9. Haven't watched this docuseries yet. Follows four prominent surgeons performing innovative surgeries. Can't wait. Eater's Guide to the World-Hulu. Maya Rudolph narrates this series. If you are a true foodie, this is the series for you. Plan your next trip based on the food you want to experience- will it be Mexico, L.A., New York, Costa Rica.....the world is your oyster. So enjoyable to watch. Yellowstone-was originally shown on Paramount. Now streaming on Peacock if you have it. I have touted this show for three seasons. As I mentionged earlier, Costner is my most favorite! He stars as the patriarch of a complicated family of ranchers. Great ensemble cast and very worthwhile series. Kelly Reilly plays Costner's daughter and she rocks! Season 4 returns in June, 2021. So binge these 3 seasons now. Let Them All Talk-HBO MAX 12/10 Release. Waiting with bated breath for this! A transatlantic cruise with Meryl Streep, Dianne Weist, and Candice Bergen. I can't imagine a better joy ride. And so my friends, I figure we have until May/June until we meet once again in person. This will undoubtedly be another long winter for all of us. They say patience is a virtue. What is the actual meaning of this expression? Well, it means it is a valuable character trait to be able to wait for something without becoming frustrated. Unfortunately, I did not inherit this trait from either of my parents! I am especially cognizent of this fact while waiting for a Dr. to enter my examining room and he(she) is running 45 minutes behind; or waiting 20-30 minutes for someone to take my drink order (in pre-covid days when we frequented restaurants). But presently, I am trying patiently to await the Covid Vaccine so that I may enter my daughters' homes and be able to once again hug and kiss my children and grandchildren; so that I may enter my mother's assisted living facility so that I may kiss her and comfort her before she dies; so that I may make a few more wonderful trips before my body doesn't want to travel anymore; so that I am able to enjoy my golden years doing joyous activities (oh, how I long for a Yankees game or a museum or a movie theater) with my husband; and finally, so that I may experience my cherished friends in person and socialize once again. I know this day will come and truthfully, I am more hopeful now that Joe Biden will be our new President. If nothing else, he has already exhibited his extreme patience during these last several weeks. He has shown the country that patience is not his only virtue. He is also kind, calm, empathetic, and intelligent. So, I hope we can all emulate his behavior and character. And soon, this time in our lives will be a memory that we never forget. But, it WILL be a memory. Please take care, stay safe, mask up! PEACE OUT-ONE B

Mr. Trump, where is your "rachmanus"?

The Yiddish word rachmanus is loosely defined to mean compassion,empathy,mercy and pity. Rachmanus rules have played a major role in the JCC Maccabi Games. Some of the rules cited for these games are: Treat others as you would like to be treated. Be a good loser and a gracious winner. Make a positive difference. Refrain from actions that many cause injury to others. Lead by example. In the past four years, Trump has showed no inkling of rachmanus. To ANYONE. EVER. But, when he got the virus, I thought to myself-NOW. NOW, he will finally understand the tragedy of 210,000 deaths in our country. NOW, he can relate to the 7.5 million cases in the U.S and what a horrendous virus Covid is. NOW he will understand the need for more testing, the need for more ppe, and the need for more contact tracing. AND, Finally, he will comprehend the need for social distaning, for isolating for 14 days when you exhibit symptoms or test positive, he will understand the importance of wearing a mask, and he will tell the people of the U.S. that it is imperative to be diligent at all times when leaving their home. It would become crystal clear to him that he was totally wrong about this being exactly "like the flu". In the past four years the sum of deaths from the flu did not total over 200,000! And, we have a vaccine for the flu. He would have an epiphany now that, he too, is now sick with Corona. He would pontificate that we DO need to listen to the scientists. He would realize his life, his wife's life, and our lives depend on it. BUT NOOOOOOOOOO-this man cares about noone. Instead, he gathered up his secret service (while being treated with 3 drugs in the hospital and while he was extremely contagious) to chaffeur a joyride in order to wave to his supporters. That was not showing rachmanus. How does he not protect the lives of the people who have dedicated their lives to protecting him and his family? Did you know he came late to the debate last Tuesday and therefore, did not get tested at the Cleveland Clinic? He was probably contagious at that point. Is that showing rachmanus to the Biden's, Chris Wallace, the audience? Did you know that Trump's family also went maskless at the debate despite the state health guidelines mandating masks? How is that showing empathy and compassion? Rather, it shows a total lack of kindness and respect for others. Noone seems to be discussing the Trump fund raiser in Bedminster,N.J. The President's decision to attend that event despite his known exposure after Hope Hicks tested positive for Covid was appalling and horrifying. He literally put the entire staff and 200 supporters in danger. The club should be shut down for 14 days. Children of these supporters are being asked to remain home and not attend school.Don't even get me started on the Rose Garden debacle for Judge Barret. At the minimum, 11 people now have Covid from that event. Which brings me to the question: when was Trump's last negative test? How long has he been contagious? His behavior has been reckless. He has callous disregard for human lives. When he returned to the White House last night and removed his mask, I thought I would just pass out. Is he delirious? He is supposed to be isolating for 14 days. Instead, he had someone get close enough to him to apply makeup and then he summoned photographers so that he could have a photo op. I was literally watching an Orange Evita. Don't cry for me! Cry for him. Trump had the opportunity to turn this around, to be a positive leader, to show compassion and empathy for what this country is experiencing. He refuses to allow the CDC to perform contact tracing for the Rose Garden Event. Why? He is now blocking the FDA from testing the vaccine for two months to ensure it is safe. Why? Because he doesn't care about human life. He solely cares about being reelected. Evidently, his Jewish son in law, Jared, hasn't informed him of the meaning of rachmanus. Maybe Stephen Miller will enlighten Trump! But,it's doubtful. PEACE OUT! ONE B HAPPY 2ND BIRTHDAY WILL!

BIKES, BARETTES, AND BEDS

I have the sweetest most beautiful(just turned three)granddaughter.

SOCIALLY DISTANCING ON THE SOFAS

Summer 2020 is coming to an end and I am not sad. I always look forward to the crisp fall air, the changing color of the leaves, pumpkins, Halloween, and Thanksgiving. This summer was an odd time for all of us. I am so grateful for my ability to spend an abundance of beautiful days and evenings at our country club. For me, being able to remain socially distant while enjoying delicious meals and magnificent views to boot was key. It helped create a feeling that everything was "normal". On occasion, I have been chastised for refusing to sit at a table with others where I cannot maintain a social distance of six feet. If this is something you choose to do and you are fine with joining others at a table or dining out at a restaurant, I totally support you. I don't judge your preferences. I don't have any expectations of others and I want you to be happy. But I too, do not want to be judged for my choices or what makes me feel comfortable. Betraying myself to make others feel better is too stressful for me, and not something I will do. So that being said, school is back in session. People are returning to work and their offices. We are going more places and coming into contact with more people. Please continue to stay safe, mask, and wash hands often. As we all know, children are often asymptomatic and carrying the virus. I have once again started masking inside my grandchildren's home. By masking, I am trying to keep others and myself well. It's a courtesy and a respect that all of us must continue to do. As the cold weather approaches, I assume we will have lots more time to read and watch television. Before you are glued to the television set solely watching the election results and becoming totally depressed, I have many suggestions to keep you occupied and distracted from politics. BOOKS Sex and Vanity-Kevin Kwan's new book. The author of Crazy Rich Asians. A light, easy read filled with comic footnotes that tells the story of a woman torn between two men from completely opposite cultures. Writers and Lovers-Lily King. A very well written novel about a 31 yeare old woman trying to fulfill her dream of becoming a writer. Excellent-Loved it. Friends and Strangers-J.Courtney Sullivan. Yet another novel about a writer who is also a mom and wife with secrets(that I haven't read about yet). The Gifts of Imperfection-Brene' Brown. This book has been around a long time. Basically, the key idea is to live a life that is authentic and true-don't try to conform for others. Have self confidence to embrace your uniqueness and not feel judged. Very relevant to today even though it was penned in 2018. Memoirs and Misinformation-Jim Carrey. I'm listening to this on audible. This is semi-autobiographical about a successful actor's lonliness, and need for constant afirmation. Kooky and interesting...not sure! Unlocking Us-Brene' Brown. This is a Podcast about vulnerability and courage. Many helpful words to help us balance the hard "stuff" with humor and hope. And for those of us who haven't gotten enough of President Trump and his family, there are some juicy tell alls with much of the information we've already heard infinite times during his presidency. Too Much Is Never Enough-Mary Trump. Trump's niece reveals the dysfunctional background of the Trump family. Disloyal:A Memoir-Michael Cohen. Again, nothing that we don't know. Granted, Cohen, Trump's lawyer was as crooked as Trump. But, he documents that they spent a lot of time paying off people to hide affairs, tax evasion, and to vanquish rivals. Melania and Me-Stephanie Winston Wolcott. I find her to be a very credible source and an interesting read. As a close friend of Melania's, and an accomplished woman, she was hired to produce the Inauguration. My take away from this book-Melania, is in fact, happy to be in the White House and is totally complicit with Donald's words and actions. MOVIES I AM WOMAN-9/11 release on Amazon Prime. The story of Helen Reddy. COASTAL ELITES-9/12 release on HBO. Comedy about the pandemic starring Sarah Paulson and Bette Midler. ANTEBELLUM-9/18 release on demand. Janelle Monae stars in a movie about systemic racism. Horror movie-sort of psychological thriller. Same producers as Get Out and Us. MISBEHAVIOUR-9/25 release in theaters only. About a team of woman trying to disrupt the 1970 Miss World Competition. Starring Keira Knightley and Greg Kinnear. BOYS IN THE BAND-9/30 release on Netflix. A remake of the original film produced by Ryan Murphy. Starring Jim Parsons and Andrew Rannells. ON THE ROCKS-10/23 release on Apple TV Plus. Written and Directed by Sofia Coppola. A young mom reconnects with her playboy father in New York. Starring Rashida Jones and Bill Murray. OVER THE MOON-10/23 release on Netflix. FOR KIDS! Animated musical about an adventurous girl who builds a rocket to meet a mythical goddess on the moon. SOUL-11/20 released in theaters. FOR KIDS! Animated adventure about a middle school music teacher who dreams of becoming a jazz performer. Starring Jamie Foxx. WONDER WOMAN 1984-November release in theaters. FOR KIDS! Wonder woman battles Maxwell Lord and the Cheetah. LET EM' GO-11/06 release in theaters and then Netflix. Retired Sheriff and his wife try to rescue their grandson from a dangerous family. Kevin Costner(My favorite) and Diane Lane. SERIES AWAY-Streaming now on Netflix. Fabulous story about astronauts taking a 3 year trip to Mars, with back stories on their families. Hillary Swank stars. RACHED-9/18 release on Netflix. The back story of Nurse Rached from One flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. Produced by Ryan Murphy, this 8 episode series stars Sarah Paulson and Sharon Stone. EMILY IN PARIS-10/02 release on Netflix. Created by Daren Star. Emily moves to Paris and experiences culture clashes. Lily Collins stars. If you are a fan of Sex and The City, you'll like this. THE UNDOING-10/25 HBO. Psychological thriller starring Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant. Looks great! COBRA KAI-streaming now on Netflix. FOR KIDS and adults too! Ralph Macchio, the karate kid stars. Three seasons. Everyone is loving this! THE RIGHT STUFF-10/09 on Disney+. Drama based oin Tom Wolfe's 1979 novel about astronauts. THE DUTCHESS=9/11 release on Netflix. A semi-autobiographical comedy on comedian Katherine Ryan's life in London. Looks great! THE CROWN-11/05. Season four begins! The life of Queen Elizabeth II from 1940 to the present. Olivia Colman and Helena Bonham Carter. Can't wait! THE GREAT HACK-Now on Netflix. Facebook Cambridge Analytica Scandal. Private companies harvest information on us. The dark side of social media. Very scary and interesting. THE WHITE QUEEN-Now on Starz. Historical Drama. Blood Feud between the House of York and the House of Lancaster. Takes place in 1464. I hope I have provided you with enough entertainment until we have a vaccine for the virus. In these times, it is so important to acknowledge the strange sadness we are all sharing; but to also have the ability to move far away from it for periods of time. Hopefully, these suggestions will aide you in this journey! Until we see each other again-PEACE OUT-ONE B