Just yesterday I was 20. I was at Penn, getting a great education and also partying a lot of time with my wonderful friends (who are still very much a major part of my life today). Often, I would leave my dorm for one date, come back around 11p.m. and change my clothes, and then go out on the next date! I loved to dance, meet new people, and stay up all night. Well, not much has changed. I still have amazing friends (both from my college years and now from my current life), I still love to party and stay up all night, I still love to dance (but no one wants to go with me!), and most of all, I enjoy meeting new people.
But the big difference is, it is years later and I am now 58! I have been married for over 35 years to the man of my dreams(STILL!). I have two married daughters and one grandson. I have downsized and moved out of my house into a condo. And I am closer to death than birth. It's a scary scenario. When I get together with friends, the discussion often turns to our ailments, our medications, our post menopausal symptoms, and what body parts could use refreshing. Some of us are doing our faces, others are replacing hips or knees, and still others are buying lots of new cosmetic dentistry. Boy, did my (dentist) dad retire too soon! He would have made a fortune if he was still practicing. And that leads me to another topic: people I know are retiring or are already retired. How can that be?
This morning when my husband jumped back into bed, I told him he needed to have a dermatologist check something new on his face! That was so romantic! Is this what our lives have come to! He replied: "when did we get so old?" We used to be so young!
Well, this is what I have decided. I am going to face everyday from here on in with a positive attitude. I am going to get excited about going to Hawaii and not moan about the long plane ride which could cause blood clots if I don't get up enough and walk around! I am going to crawl around on the floor with my grandson and pretend I, too, am a toddler full of curiosity and wonder. I will not be a jaded cranky old lady. EVER. I will get more apps for my I phone! I will no longer talk about my ailments, cholesterol, medications and heartburn. And I WILL dance my ass off, just as soon as I get that new hip! And for all of you that don't know it yet, that is a lot sooner than you think.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Friday, January 18, 2013
Living in The Moment-The Joy of Being a Grandma
Not so long ago, I would get shocked responses when I told people how old my daughters were. People would say you are too young to have kids that old! Lately, that has not been the case! But I really don't mind. Yes, it is true that we live in a society that worships beauty and youth. The elderly do not seem to command the respect they once did when extended families and our grandparents often lived in the same household. How can we restore the value and respect for the elderly in our society? How do we develop a more caring nation? It is my hope that by spending time with your grandchildren, they will learn from you, love you, and value you.
I, personally, have always valued old people. They have so much knowledge, so many stories to tell, and so much to teach us. My friends often complain that their parents are a burden. I feel my parents are a blessing. I always feel gratitude that my children have had the benefit of having most of their grandparents alive and hoped that they value those relationships. My paternal grandparents died early but I loved the time I got to spend with my maternal grandparents. I have fond memories of Fanny and Max. Today, I feel it is a privilege to be a part of my grandson's life. I feel so incredibly lucky. Being a parent is a full time job-it is a lifetime commitment that has many emotional ups and downs. It was and is hard work filled with much worry and many, many rewards. And that job never ends. But as grandparent, you are no longer in charge. You no longer have to multitask. You don't feel the same level of stress. You can just be.
My grandson has my full attention whenever he wants it. Hopefully, spending time with him will teach him the value of the elderly (that's me and Pops!). He will look forward to spending time with us and not think of it as a chore. Rather it will be an adventure!
Part of being "Nonni" means you have a free pass to sing and dance like a madwoman, and get some guffaws and giggles. No grownups are there to judge your silly behavior (except maybe my daughter and son-in-law). By spending time with your grandchild, you will gently try and transmit values, ethics, kindness, and respect towards others. I am sure my own children and their peers critically examine how they were raised and then decide what their parents (my husband and I) did wrong and what they will do differently with their own children. I, too, did exactly that. And, although my parents are terrific, the major mistake they made was choosing to move away from their children and grandchildren. They missed out on the greatest experiences ever. And, my daughters missed out as well. I am never moving away! People often say the good thing about being a grandparent is you can give the child back to the parents. Actually, I think that's the worst thing about being a grandparent! I don't like having to give him back! My grandson makes it all worthwhile. When I am with him, no problems exist-I live in the moment. It is pure ecstasy! I can't imagine missing out on all of this fun.
So, what is the reason for all this sappy babble? Well, I am going to visit my parents (yup, the ones that moved away) for an entire week. I can't wait to spend time with my mom and dad. But, I am already in withdrawal knowing I can't see my grandson for eight days! I know he will not even know I am gone, but I will miss him like the dickens...
I hope he remembers me-maybe I will bring him a pet alligator for the bathtub. That ought to make his mom and dad very happy! And so my spoiling begins..
Elizabeth Berg says, "Obviously there was something to this grandmother business. So far as I could tell, it was like being the queen of England, minus the inconvenience of having to wear a crown."
I, personally, have always valued old people. They have so much knowledge, so many stories to tell, and so much to teach us. My friends often complain that their parents are a burden. I feel my parents are a blessing. I always feel gratitude that my children have had the benefit of having most of their grandparents alive and hoped that they value those relationships. My paternal grandparents died early but I loved the time I got to spend with my maternal grandparents. I have fond memories of Fanny and Max. Today, I feel it is a privilege to be a part of my grandson's life. I feel so incredibly lucky. Being a parent is a full time job-it is a lifetime commitment that has many emotional ups and downs. It was and is hard work filled with much worry and many, many rewards. And that job never ends. But as grandparent, you are no longer in charge. You no longer have to multitask. You don't feel the same level of stress. You can just be.
My grandson has my full attention whenever he wants it. Hopefully, spending time with him will teach him the value of the elderly (that's me and Pops!). He will look forward to spending time with us and not think of it as a chore. Rather it will be an adventure!
Part of being "Nonni" means you have a free pass to sing and dance like a madwoman, and get some guffaws and giggles. No grownups are there to judge your silly behavior (except maybe my daughter and son-in-law). By spending time with your grandchild, you will gently try and transmit values, ethics, kindness, and respect towards others. I am sure my own children and their peers critically examine how they were raised and then decide what their parents (my husband and I) did wrong and what they will do differently with their own children. I, too, did exactly that. And, although my parents are terrific, the major mistake they made was choosing to move away from their children and grandchildren. They missed out on the greatest experiences ever. And, my daughters missed out as well. I am never moving away! People often say the good thing about being a grandparent is you can give the child back to the parents. Actually, I think that's the worst thing about being a grandparent! I don't like having to give him back! My grandson makes it all worthwhile. When I am with him, no problems exist-I live in the moment. It is pure ecstasy! I can't imagine missing out on all of this fun.
So, what is the reason for all this sappy babble? Well, I am going to visit my parents (yup, the ones that moved away) for an entire week. I can't wait to spend time with my mom and dad. But, I am already in withdrawal knowing I can't see my grandson for eight days! I know he will not even know I am gone, but I will miss him like the dickens...
I hope he remembers me-maybe I will bring him a pet alligator for the bathtub. That ought to make his mom and dad very happy! And so my spoiling begins..
Elizabeth Berg says, "Obviously there was something to this grandmother business. So far as I could tell, it was like being the queen of England, minus the inconvenience of having to wear a crown."
Wednesday, January 16, 2013
Television and Books-2013
This past Sunday evening presented a big dilemma for me. What to do? Golden Globes, Girls, Californication, House of Lies, Shameless, and Downton Abbey all airing at the same time.....
So, I went with the globes (see previous blog) and then watched all the other episodes on demand.
For those fans of Californication, we are lucky enough to have the first two episodes already on demand.
Let's start with Californication. I totally love this series. Every character is a hoot. Hank Moody
played by David Duchovny is a train wreck you can't avert your eyes away from. I adore his baby momma, Natasha McElhorne and his daughter, played by Madeleine Martin. This season there is an intervention to get Hank to cease his drinking binges. He goes to rehab and we will see how long that lasts. Also, enjoyable to watch are his agent Evan Handler (Charlie Runkel) and Charlie's ex, Pam Adlon (Marcy). This ensemble cast is sensational-I am always sad when the episode is over! Watch-you will not be disappointed.
I can't say the same for House of Lies which stars Don Cheadle and Kristen Bell. This series is about a management consulting firm. The writing and story lines are redundant and boring. I love Don Cheadle, but this isn't a great vehicle for him. I predict this series won't last.
On the other hand, Shameless which stars William Macy as Frank, an alcoholic and father of 6; Emmy Rossum, as his daughter, Fiona, and Joan Cusack, as the agoraphobic neighbor, are accomplished actors in a great series. Every actor is multi-layered and engaging. I think Emmy Rossum steals the show as the only functioning adult who is forced to take on the responsibility of raising her other 5 siblings, since Frank is usually in a gutter somewhere sleeping off his drinking binge. Tune in. FYI-Rossum has a new album out and her voice is really amazing-who knew?
Downton Abbey-I am brand new to this series. I haven't watched the first two seasons. I just picked it up this season and have watched the first two episodes. I totally understand what is going on, and I don't feel the need to watch the previous seasons. The acting seems amazing, the stories of the rich family upstairs and the servants downstairs seem interesting. I am not as over the moon about this series as the rest of you seem to be. I will continue to watch before I give you my final answer.
Jimmy Kimmel in the new 11:35 time slot: I like Kimmel a lot and think he has a great show. I watched the premier with Jennifer Aniston. First, she destroyed his set with a sledgehammer and then she cut his hair. I thought it was a little gimmicky, but he got the viewers. He beat out Letterman and came close to beating Leno. My prediction: He will be the next Carson. Oh-one more thing, I think Jennifer Aniston is very pregnant! The peplum look didn't succeed in hiding her butt or baby bump. just sayin'.....
Just Finished the book, The Middlesteins by Jami Attenberg. Attenberg is a great writer. She creates complex, tragic characters that you care about and relate to. loved it!
Presently reading George Saunders, Pastoralia. ( I tried to buy Tenth of December but Barnes and Noble didn't have it after The New York Times did a piece on it two weekends ago). So far, I have no clue what is happening in the first story. I feel like I am reading Vonnegut-will I actually ever understand what Saunders is writing about? Hope so.
Dr. Ian Smith has written a new Diet book, Shred: 6 weeks, 4 inches, 2 sizes. This is a low GI diet, which stresses meal spacing, meal replacement, and low calorie snacks. No different than any other diet book. We all know what to do-there is no magic bullet. Eat less. Exercise differently (keep switching up the routine), Exercise harder each day, Exercise Everyday (at least 6 days), and keep your portions very small. Do all that and in 6 weeks, you will lose 2 sizes. If you follow it, it does work. The trick is to stick with it!
One Final note on the food scene; The Regency Hotel is closing for a year renovation. This leaves all the high powered breakfast patrons at a loss, not to mention all the Michael Feinstein fans. Where will all the power brokers eat their eggs in the meantime? Will it be the new Sirio's? The Four Seasons? or Michael's? My bet is Sirio's....
So, I went with the globes (see previous blog) and then watched all the other episodes on demand.
For those fans of Californication, we are lucky enough to have the first two episodes already on demand.
Let's start with Californication. I totally love this series. Every character is a hoot. Hank Moody
played by David Duchovny is a train wreck you can't avert your eyes away from. I adore his baby momma, Natasha McElhorne and his daughter, played by Madeleine Martin. This season there is an intervention to get Hank to cease his drinking binges. He goes to rehab and we will see how long that lasts. Also, enjoyable to watch are his agent Evan Handler (Charlie Runkel) and Charlie's ex, Pam Adlon (Marcy). This ensemble cast is sensational-I am always sad when the episode is over! Watch-you will not be disappointed.
I can't say the same for House of Lies which stars Don Cheadle and Kristen Bell. This series is about a management consulting firm. The writing and story lines are redundant and boring. I love Don Cheadle, but this isn't a great vehicle for him. I predict this series won't last.
On the other hand, Shameless which stars William Macy as Frank, an alcoholic and father of 6; Emmy Rossum, as his daughter, Fiona, and Joan Cusack, as the agoraphobic neighbor, are accomplished actors in a great series. Every actor is multi-layered and engaging. I think Emmy Rossum steals the show as the only functioning adult who is forced to take on the responsibility of raising her other 5 siblings, since Frank is usually in a gutter somewhere sleeping off his drinking binge. Tune in. FYI-Rossum has a new album out and her voice is really amazing-who knew?
Downton Abbey-I am brand new to this series. I haven't watched the first two seasons. I just picked it up this season and have watched the first two episodes. I totally understand what is going on, and I don't feel the need to watch the previous seasons. The acting seems amazing, the stories of the rich family upstairs and the servants downstairs seem interesting. I am not as over the moon about this series as the rest of you seem to be. I will continue to watch before I give you my final answer.
Jimmy Kimmel in the new 11:35 time slot: I like Kimmel a lot and think he has a great show. I watched the premier with Jennifer Aniston. First, she destroyed his set with a sledgehammer and then she cut his hair. I thought it was a little gimmicky, but he got the viewers. He beat out Letterman and came close to beating Leno. My prediction: He will be the next Carson. Oh-one more thing, I think Jennifer Aniston is very pregnant! The peplum look didn't succeed in hiding her butt or baby bump. just sayin'.....
Just Finished the book, The Middlesteins by Jami Attenberg. Attenberg is a great writer. She creates complex, tragic characters that you care about and relate to. loved it!
Presently reading George Saunders, Pastoralia. ( I tried to buy Tenth of December but Barnes and Noble didn't have it after The New York Times did a piece on it two weekends ago). So far, I have no clue what is happening in the first story. I feel like I am reading Vonnegut-will I actually ever understand what Saunders is writing about? Hope so.
Dr. Ian Smith has written a new Diet book, Shred: 6 weeks, 4 inches, 2 sizes. This is a low GI diet, which stresses meal spacing, meal replacement, and low calorie snacks. No different than any other diet book. We all know what to do-there is no magic bullet. Eat less. Exercise differently (keep switching up the routine), Exercise harder each day, Exercise Everyday (at least 6 days), and keep your portions very small. Do all that and in 6 weeks, you will lose 2 sizes. If you follow it, it does work. The trick is to stick with it!
One Final note on the food scene; The Regency Hotel is closing for a year renovation. This leaves all the high powered breakfast patrons at a loss, not to mention all the Michael Feinstein fans. Where will all the power brokers eat their eggs in the meantime? Will it be the new Sirio's? The Four Seasons? or Michael's? My bet is Sirio's....
Golden Globes-2013
For those of you who didn't watch The Golden Globes, you didn't miss much. It was a total snooze.
That is not to say that there weren't some interesting spots. My favorite "barb" came from Amy Poehler addressing Katheryn Bigelow: "I haven't really been following the controversy over Zero Dark Thirty but when it comes to torture, I trust the lady who spent three years married to James Cameron!"
The appearance of President Bill Clinton introducing the film Lincoln was pretty cool, too. But that was about as interesting as it got. So now for my comments on fashion.
ALL AROUND BEST DRESSED WOMAN
Julienne Moore-Dressed in a custom made Tom Ford, the front of the dress was exquisite. Loved her beehive hair style. See, I told you bumpets come in handy. Wasn't loving the view of the dress from the back though. Earrings by Bulgari were Amazing!
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Claire Danes-beautiful Red dress, incredible body just one month after giving birth.
Jessica Chastain-magnificent seafoam Calvin Klein dress looked fabulous against her skin and hair
color. The top of the dress needed to be fitted more to her body. Harry Winston
bracelet was to die for. (FYI-Harry Winston was just purchased by SWATCH)
Olivia Munn-Beautiful turquoise beaded Armani gown and Chopard necklace were off the charts.
She rocked it.
Carey Lowell- Richard Gere's wife wearing a simple red Valentino. Personally, the best looking
woman at the globes.
WORST DRESSED WOMEN
Naomi Watts- even the terrible rust Zac Posen with train could not ruin her luminous skin, face, and
hair.
Nicole Kidman-for someone I used to often consider as one of the best dressed, she now looks horrid
all the time. The botoxed forehead and the netted/studded Alexander McQueen just
did nothing for her. She needs a new stylist. Her hubby is really cute though!
Taylor Swift-eggplant color dress and dull haircolor didn't flatter her.
Lena Dunham-another eggplant Zac Posen. The dress itself was nice. However, she seemed to be
wobbling in her shoes and struggling with the length while going up and down steps.
She couldn't carry it off.
BEST LOOKING/DRESSED MEN
I can't really comment on their fashion, but overall the best "easy on the eyes" guys are:
Bradley Cooper-hands down, this man is beyond good looking!
Richard Gere-as he ages, he gets even better.
George Clooney-always looks great.
Ryan Seacrest-dressed impeccably in Burberry Tux.
QUESTIONABLE LOOKS-COULD GO EITHER WAY
Anne Hathaway-2 piece white beaded Chanel. Looked too much like Liza Minelli. She needed a
great necklace or a fabulous pair of earrings. Is she pregnant?
Lucy Liu-you either loved the Caroline Herrera gown or you didn't. You either loved her braided hair
or you didn't. Didn't.
Kate Hudson-there was a lot of discussion about this dress. I thought she looked like a 70's drag
queen. Others loved the dress-you decide.
Kerry Washington-another much discussed dress. Looked great on her, but her pin straight hair didn't
seem to clinch the look. Also, didn't love matchy- matchy shoes and purse.
Katherine McPhee-drop dead body donned in black Theysken's Theory. Perfection.
That is not to say that there weren't some interesting spots. My favorite "barb" came from Amy Poehler addressing Katheryn Bigelow: "I haven't really been following the controversy over Zero Dark Thirty but when it comes to torture, I trust the lady who spent three years married to James Cameron!"
The appearance of President Bill Clinton introducing the film Lincoln was pretty cool, too. But that was about as interesting as it got. So now for my comments on fashion.
ALL AROUND BEST DRESSED WOMAN
Julienne Moore-Dressed in a custom made Tom Ford, the front of the dress was exquisite. Loved her beehive hair style. See, I told you bumpets come in handy. Wasn't loving the view of the dress from the back though. Earrings by Bulgari were Amazing!
HONORABLE MENTIONS
Claire Danes-beautiful Red dress, incredible body just one month after giving birth.
Jessica Chastain-magnificent seafoam Calvin Klein dress looked fabulous against her skin and hair
color. The top of the dress needed to be fitted more to her body. Harry Winston
bracelet was to die for. (FYI-Harry Winston was just purchased by SWATCH)
Olivia Munn-Beautiful turquoise beaded Armani gown and Chopard necklace were off the charts.
She rocked it.
Carey Lowell- Richard Gere's wife wearing a simple red Valentino. Personally, the best looking
woman at the globes.
WORST DRESSED WOMEN
Naomi Watts- even the terrible rust Zac Posen with train could not ruin her luminous skin, face, and
hair.
Nicole Kidman-for someone I used to often consider as one of the best dressed, she now looks horrid
all the time. The botoxed forehead and the netted/studded Alexander McQueen just
did nothing for her. She needs a new stylist. Her hubby is really cute though!
Taylor Swift-eggplant color dress and dull haircolor didn't flatter her.
Lena Dunham-another eggplant Zac Posen. The dress itself was nice. However, she seemed to be
wobbling in her shoes and struggling with the length while going up and down steps.
She couldn't carry it off.
BEST LOOKING/DRESSED MEN
I can't really comment on their fashion, but overall the best "easy on the eyes" guys are:
Bradley Cooper-hands down, this man is beyond good looking!
Richard Gere-as he ages, he gets even better.
George Clooney-always looks great.
Ryan Seacrest-dressed impeccably in Burberry Tux.
QUESTIONABLE LOOKS-COULD GO EITHER WAY
Anne Hathaway-2 piece white beaded Chanel. Looked too much like Liza Minelli. She needed a
great necklace or a fabulous pair of earrings. Is she pregnant?
Lucy Liu-you either loved the Caroline Herrera gown or you didn't. You either loved her braided hair
or you didn't. Didn't.
Kate Hudson-there was a lot of discussion about this dress. I thought she looked like a 70's drag
queen. Others loved the dress-you decide.
Kerry Washington-another much discussed dress. Looked great on her, but her pin straight hair didn't
seem to clinch the look. Also, didn't love matchy- matchy shoes and purse.
Katherine McPhee-drop dead body donned in black Theysken's Theory. Perfection.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
December Movies and notable TV
My husband and I love the movies. We go as much as possible. When we are not going to the movies, we are looking to see what we can rent on demand at our home. In the past month or so, we have watched all of the following. I will list them in the order of our favorites first.
SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK- Bradley Cooper (world's sexiest man- and yes, he is easy on the eyes!) and Jennifer Lawrence (star of Hunger Games) star in this, along with DeNiro. A bipolar,
Philadelphia Eagles Fan (is that redundant?) finds a new life, falls in love, and becomes a "regular guy" after attempting to kill the man he sees in his shower making love to his wife....loved it!
THIS IS 40-Sequel to Knocked Up. Leslie Mann, (real life wife of Judd Apatow) and his daughters star in this family comedy. Paul Rudd plays Pete, Mann's husband. Watch for Melissa McCarthy who has two great scenes, and Albert Brooks as Paul Rudd's Father. This is a movie that shows the realities of a marriage and family: we fight about the kids, money, life, our parents. Truthfully, this hit a little too close to home for me so it was not always funny....I cringed at a few of the topics. By the way, I do shop at Ann Taylor Loft! (see the movie). The topic of how men drive
women crazy (gift selections, excessive bathroom time, not standing up to ridiculous parents who are completely out of line, etc.) shows all of us that we are not the only dysfunctional family on the block. Make sure to stay for the end and watch the credits-very funny.
LINCOLN-I predict Daniel Day-Lewis will get the academy award for this performance. Spielberg directs the movie which illustrates the 16th president's final months in office. We see a nation divided and a gridlocked house divided over how to end the war between the states and how to end slavery. This has a star studded cast and a terrific script. Watch how art imitates life-the movie is more timely than you would imagine with parallel issues of government not coming to mutually acceptable agreements. Only, in this movie, the Republicans were the "good guys"! A MUST SEE
DJANGO UNCHAINED-typical Tarentino. The movie starts two years before the Civil War ends. Jamie Fox is Django, a slave turned bounty hunter. He partners with Dr. King Shultz, a german born Bounty hunter portryayed brilliantly by Christoph Waltz (another academy award worthy nod). Only Django can lead Shultz to the Brittle Brothers and so the story goes. If you like Tarentino, you will enjoy this. However, it is very long (2hrs. 46min), poorly edited, and exceedingly bloody, so be prepared. Not one of his better films.
THE GUILT TRIP-Barbra Streisand and Seth Rogen star. A terrible script, one long "jewish, nagging, mother joke". Rogen steps back and lets Streisand star. Mother and Son go on a road trip to sell son's latest invention. Not funny, nothing redeeming about this movie. A total waste of your time. Don't Go.
MOVIES ON DEMAND
TED- Very Raunchy and Very Funny. Stars Mark Wahlberg and Mila Cunis. worth a look.
CENTRAL PARK FIVE-documentary about 5 black/latino teens arrested and charged for attacking and raping a white female in Central Park. They spent years in prison for a crime they didn't commit but were brutally forced to confess to by the corrupt cops. Hard to watch, infuriating that this could happen. Not an easy movie to stay with.
STRUCK BY LIGHTENING- Rebel Wilson(Pitch Perfect) and Chris Colfer(Glee) star. Plot is about a teen trying to survive the dilemmas of highschool and his crazy parents. Very mediocre, not funny.
TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE- Amy Adams and Clint Eastwood star in this movie about a baseball scout and his daughter who are forced to spend some time together, and renew a relationship. Terrible-not worth watching.
SASSY PANTS-home schooled teen runs away from mom to live with dad. I fell asleep-my husband said it was horrible.
TELEVISION
KENNEDY CENTER HONORS-just a quick note about last night's program honoring David Letterman, Dustin Hoffman, Natilia Makarova, Buddy Guy, and Led Zeppelin.
Much of the show was a snooze, but notable moments to watch on the internet:
The entire tribute to Led Zeppelin was AWESOME! Kid Rock was spectacular, Lenny Kravitz singing Whole Lotta Love brought the house down. And finally, Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart sang an amazing rendition of Stairway to Heaven.
Most enjoyable was watching Obama with his arm around Michelle rocking to the music. And watch for Yo-Yo Ma grooving to the beat- completely hysterical.
Jimmy Kimmel giving his tribute to Letterman: "You are the hero of all of us, with the possible exception of the people who came to see the ballerina."
Ray Romano telling us what he learned from Letterman: "Don't Quit! Do you quit when you're down one nothing in the Debates (as he looks up at Obama!)? No-you keep going."
Tracy Chatman and Reba's tribute to blues great, Buddy Guy-really, really great.
SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK- Bradley Cooper (world's sexiest man- and yes, he is easy on the eyes!) and Jennifer Lawrence (star of Hunger Games) star in this, along with DeNiro. A bipolar,
Philadelphia Eagles Fan (is that redundant?) finds a new life, falls in love, and becomes a "regular guy" after attempting to kill the man he sees in his shower making love to his wife....loved it!
THIS IS 40-Sequel to Knocked Up. Leslie Mann, (real life wife of Judd Apatow) and his daughters star in this family comedy. Paul Rudd plays Pete, Mann's husband. Watch for Melissa McCarthy who has two great scenes, and Albert Brooks as Paul Rudd's Father. This is a movie that shows the realities of a marriage and family: we fight about the kids, money, life, our parents. Truthfully, this hit a little too close to home for me so it was not always funny....I cringed at a few of the topics. By the way, I do shop at Ann Taylor Loft! (see the movie). The topic of how men drive
women crazy (gift selections, excessive bathroom time, not standing up to ridiculous parents who are completely out of line, etc.) shows all of us that we are not the only dysfunctional family on the block. Make sure to stay for the end and watch the credits-very funny.
LINCOLN-I predict Daniel Day-Lewis will get the academy award for this performance. Spielberg directs the movie which illustrates the 16th president's final months in office. We see a nation divided and a gridlocked house divided over how to end the war between the states and how to end slavery. This has a star studded cast and a terrific script. Watch how art imitates life-the movie is more timely than you would imagine with parallel issues of government not coming to mutually acceptable agreements. Only, in this movie, the Republicans were the "good guys"! A MUST SEE
DJANGO UNCHAINED-typical Tarentino. The movie starts two years before the Civil War ends. Jamie Fox is Django, a slave turned bounty hunter. He partners with Dr. King Shultz, a german born Bounty hunter portryayed brilliantly by Christoph Waltz (another academy award worthy nod). Only Django can lead Shultz to the Brittle Brothers and so the story goes. If you like Tarentino, you will enjoy this. However, it is very long (2hrs. 46min), poorly edited, and exceedingly bloody, so be prepared. Not one of his better films.
THE GUILT TRIP-Barbra Streisand and Seth Rogen star. A terrible script, one long "jewish, nagging, mother joke". Rogen steps back and lets Streisand star. Mother and Son go on a road trip to sell son's latest invention. Not funny, nothing redeeming about this movie. A total waste of your time. Don't Go.
MOVIES ON DEMAND
TED- Very Raunchy and Very Funny. Stars Mark Wahlberg and Mila Cunis. worth a look.
CENTRAL PARK FIVE-documentary about 5 black/latino teens arrested and charged for attacking and raping a white female in Central Park. They spent years in prison for a crime they didn't commit but were brutally forced to confess to by the corrupt cops. Hard to watch, infuriating that this could happen. Not an easy movie to stay with.
STRUCK BY LIGHTENING- Rebel Wilson(Pitch Perfect) and Chris Colfer(Glee) star. Plot is about a teen trying to survive the dilemmas of highschool and his crazy parents. Very mediocre, not funny.
TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE- Amy Adams and Clint Eastwood star in this movie about a baseball scout and his daughter who are forced to spend some time together, and renew a relationship. Terrible-not worth watching.
SASSY PANTS-home schooled teen runs away from mom to live with dad. I fell asleep-my husband said it was horrible.
TELEVISION
KENNEDY CENTER HONORS-just a quick note about last night's program honoring David Letterman, Dustin Hoffman, Natilia Makarova, Buddy Guy, and Led Zeppelin.
Much of the show was a snooze, but notable moments to watch on the internet:
The entire tribute to Led Zeppelin was AWESOME! Kid Rock was spectacular, Lenny Kravitz singing Whole Lotta Love brought the house down. And finally, Ann and Nancy Wilson of Heart sang an amazing rendition of Stairway to Heaven.
Most enjoyable was watching Obama with his arm around Michelle rocking to the music. And watch for Yo-Yo Ma grooving to the beat- completely hysterical.
Jimmy Kimmel giving his tribute to Letterman: "You are the hero of all of us, with the possible exception of the people who came to see the ballerina."
Ray Romano telling us what he learned from Letterman: "Don't Quit! Do you quit when you're down one nothing in the Debates (as he looks up at Obama!)? No-you keep going."
Tracy Chatman and Reba's tribute to blues great, Buddy Guy-really, really great.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
A New Laptop or A New Hip?
Lately, I have noticed my computer shuts down all by itself. I will walk out of the room and when I come back in, it has turned off! Then, to make matters worse, it often will not turn back on. My family has explained that a computer is not meant to last for more than a few years. I think this one is about 6 years old. I stay awake at night and watch HSN and QVC and SHOPNBC. Everyone has a deal. The computers are about $500 and come with several hundred dollars of software. My head starts to spin. I feel these networks all have great deals! I'll order a new one tomorrow, I say. Then tomorrow comes. And I can't betray my old friend. I am attached to my obsolete, failing computer. I just can't pull the trigger for some silly reason. And miraculously, she turns on.....
Which brings me to my 58-year-old left hip. Recently, I noticed it shuts down all by itself. I try to walk out of the room or jog up the steps and it fails me. This can't possibly be happening, can it? The three doctors I have consulted tell me they can't believe I can even walk. "Bone on Bone" they all say. A hip of an 80-year-old they all say. Bah Humbug! I love this hip. I have walked through Yellowstone, Yosemite, Maine, Europe, Canada....it has gotten me far and done a pretty impressive job. I stay awake at night and think about which month to do the surgery, which doctor to use, which type of surgery (anterior vs. posterior), and which hospital I want to do it in. I play a schedule in my head....I actually commit. That's it-now or never, one b. I can't go on this way. I am definitely doing it- YES, I am.
And then tomorrow comes. And I can't betray my old friend. I am attached to this obsolete, arthritic, failing hip. And I just can't pull the trigger for some insane reason. However, as I try to pull on my pants, I begin to think my new hip will be happening faster than my new computer.
Which brings me to my 58-year-old left hip. Recently, I noticed it shuts down all by itself. I try to walk out of the room or jog up the steps and it fails me. This can't possibly be happening, can it? The three doctors I have consulted tell me they can't believe I can even walk. "Bone on Bone" they all say. A hip of an 80-year-old they all say. Bah Humbug! I love this hip. I have walked through Yellowstone, Yosemite, Maine, Europe, Canada....it has gotten me far and done a pretty impressive job. I stay awake at night and think about which month to do the surgery, which doctor to use, which type of surgery (anterior vs. posterior), and which hospital I want to do it in. I play a schedule in my head....I actually commit. That's it-now or never, one b. I can't go on this way. I am definitely doing it- YES, I am.
And then tomorrow comes. And I can't betray my old friend. I am attached to this obsolete, arthritic, failing hip. And I just can't pull the trigger for some insane reason. However, as I try to pull on my pants, I begin to think my new hip will be happening faster than my new computer.
I Always Advise An Advocate
In the past year or so, it seems that I am surrounded by friends and relatives who have someone in their lives that has become ill and needed hospitalization. As we age, it is inevitable that we will be taking more of an active role in caring for our aging parents. While no one likes to think about the prospect of being the caretaker, a child more often than not, takes on this responsibility. Even if there is a spouse still alive to take on this task , I find that too much information can become confusing and difficult to retain for the healthy spouse. It creates too much anxiety when they are worried about their loved one.
I strongly recommend that someone accompanies the patient to the doctor's office and goes into the room with them. You should have questions ready and if necessary, write down all responses, write down the protocol the doctor expects the patient to follow, the medications, and any other relevant information he discusses. Do not be intimidated by a curt or demeaning physician. Stand your ground. Do not be rushed.
If the patient has to be hospitalized, one should be there as much as possible. Specifically, you want to be there when medication is dispensed AND when the doctors typically make their rounds. Too many times the wrong medicine or the wrong dosage is given, or two medicines conflict with one another. Often one doctor isn't aware what another doctor has ordered. All kinds of issues can go wrong-and many mistakes happen all the time. I have had experiences while my children and my mom have been hospitalized, and I have caught incidents with medication where a disaster was just about to happen. Personally, I suggest you keep a ledger of all nurses, their times on duty, and the meds dispensed and the times they are given. I also keep notes on each morning, afternoon, and evening visit by the doctors, the doctors' names and what they report.
If you think a nurse is not tending to the relative properly, you must SPEAK UP. If you notice a symptom that has appeared or a reaction, SPEAK UP. Do not be afraid to ask a question, or ask for help, or call the doctor. Follow your instincts. In your gut, you can tell when someone is failing, hurting, or in need of attention. In the final analysis, having an advocate will help facilitate a speedier
recovery, a more efficient rehabilitation or resolution, and a happier patient.
It is always nice to know that someone is watching out for you-Especially at a time when you are not capable of doing this for yourself. You will be saving someone's life and that someone is a person you love very much.
I strongly recommend that someone accompanies the patient to the doctor's office and goes into the room with them. You should have questions ready and if necessary, write down all responses, write down the protocol the doctor expects the patient to follow, the medications, and any other relevant information he discusses. Do not be intimidated by a curt or demeaning physician. Stand your ground. Do not be rushed.
If the patient has to be hospitalized, one should be there as much as possible. Specifically, you want to be there when medication is dispensed AND when the doctors typically make their rounds. Too many times the wrong medicine or the wrong dosage is given, or two medicines conflict with one another. Often one doctor isn't aware what another doctor has ordered. All kinds of issues can go wrong-and many mistakes happen all the time. I have had experiences while my children and my mom have been hospitalized, and I have caught incidents with medication where a disaster was just about to happen. Personally, I suggest you keep a ledger of all nurses, their times on duty, and the meds dispensed and the times they are given. I also keep notes on each morning, afternoon, and evening visit by the doctors, the doctors' names and what they report.
If you think a nurse is not tending to the relative properly, you must SPEAK UP. If you notice a symptom that has appeared or a reaction, SPEAK UP. Do not be afraid to ask a question, or ask for help, or call the doctor. Follow your instincts. In your gut, you can tell when someone is failing, hurting, or in need of attention. In the final analysis, having an advocate will help facilitate a speedier
recovery, a more efficient rehabilitation or resolution, and a happier patient.
It is always nice to know that someone is watching out for you-Especially at a time when you are not capable of doing this for yourself. You will be saving someone's life and that someone is a person you love very much.
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