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Wednesday, 01 January
New Year Resolutions
DONT BELIEVE IN THEM. What I mean is "I" dont believe in them. For me they seem to be the first promise we make to ourselves in the New Year (and there fore the first lie) and then they become the first promise we break. Perhaps there are people out there who manage to stick to their NYR and good on them but I fear it is the majority of us that make and break all in the first week or so. It goes back to that idea of balance or Einstiens theory that every action has an equal and opposite reaction (or something like that) The desire to make a resolution is matched by the desire to not break it. So as one goes about applying the effort to 'not break it' the strain becomes too much to bare and bang - gone, broken. Why? Because all the effort is focused on the outcome you didnt want to happen - (thinking)...dont do it dont do it dont do it Im not gonna do it not gonna do it god Im not gonna do it its hard but im gonna make it im not gonna do it im not gonna make it im not gonna make it im gonna do it im gonna do it gonna do it OH DAMN I DID IT See what I mean. Resolutions seem to empower that which we are resoluting against. Perhaps the resolution should be reversed. Make your resolution to do what it is you dont want to do ie eat, drink, smoke, put on weight etc and then set about doing it with great fervor and I reckon eventually you'll get so sick of it that you will give it all away quite a bit easier and sooner than you would have if you had done it the other way around. Try the excercise above and I am sure you will find I am right. I am not being cynical - tongue in cheek yes, cynical no. So I do not make resolutions. However if asked the resolution question - and now I can see you move closer to the edge of your swinging chair - I would answer by saying thus.... I do not make resolutions, however I do have an affirmation for this new year ahead of me - an affirmative action plan if you like - and that is: to take the lessons learnt from this last year (which is cumulative from years gone past -kind of like a good stock) and apply them as best I can through this new year. Thereby I will continue to grow, continue to nurture, to discover, to evolve, to become, to change. I will use the lessons of the past to help me in this process and in doing so learn new things, create new lessons for new years. I will be actively and positively creating/re-creating - 'me' The best thing about this -for me - is I dont have to give up anything or lose anything. Instead I am changing. I am gaining and giving to myself that which I need to grow. I am evolving into a more trimmer me, I am nurturing better health through looking after myself differently from how I did last year. I am applying what Ive learnt about myself this last year to improve myself this New Year. Do you see what I am getting at? Do you think I am kidding myself? I am not indulging in the the issue and pressure of success or failure according to resolutions. I am owning the responsibilty of being me, of making and meeting my goals, of continueing my growth and fulfilling the promise of my creative soul. Note: comments on old entries are closed. Please comment only on the current entry. Comments I think that's a healthy philosophy Paul. Focus on adding muscle not removing fat. It just happens in the process. Well it's about 1:00 in WV. This is my official Happy New Year! Have one! "You can live an ordinary life or an extraordinary life. It's up to you.": Caryn and Michela's New Year's Resolution (according to Paul's philosophy): Clearly this will help us along the path to self-improvement. (inner conflict) don't do it, don't do it, not gonna do it, not gonna put the movie in, don't let me do it, oh god don't look at the heinie, it's hard, not gonna do it, gonna do it, OH DAMN WE DID IT Now, for a self-appraisal... yep, it's working so far. We won't say what it is exactly we just did, but we bet you can guess. Here, we'll give you a hint - it starts with "Watched", ends with "Ballroom", and has "Strictly" in the middle. My god, we can recite/comment on the entire movie by now. Here's an example: "Oh, OH! Here it comes! Wait for it, wait for it... RIGHT THERE! The hip-shakey thingie! SO HOT! Woo-HOO!" Forgive us, the champagne must've gone to our heads. Thanks for the ideas, Paul. More comments to come in response to your thoughts, tomorrow when we are a little more sober. Hope you enjoyed the parody. :) -Michela and Caryn Posted by: Caryn and Michela on January 1, 2003 02:42 PMfrom IP:Dear Caryn and Michela, Wow, Caryn, why didn't you invited your adopted grandpa (my hubbie) and me to your house for New Year's? We would have whooped it up with you while watching our fave movie too! We old foggies went out for an early dinner, and then decided to go home and watch the craziness in Times Square at midnight...however, I fell asleep well before midnight, and would you believe it, the New Year came in anyway? I think you and Michela might have had a bit too much champagne, but thank goodness, it did not diminish your love of, (I'll say it with much reverence), "Strictly Ballroom." When watching Paul, we seniors show much more decorum...we only "swoon"...(faint from the experience!) There will be a lot of swooning going on when "Strictly Ballroom" will be shown in our brand new Theatre (970 seats)on the huuuuuuuuuge Paul, you say you hope to trim down...when you do, I'll say it again...HNY, with love! Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 1, 2003 04:48 PMfrom IP:
Your Foggie Grandma Mildred Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 1, 2003 04:56 PMfrom IP:When I grow up I want to be a foggie!! Foogies arent nearly as cool. Luv ya Grandma!! Posted by: Paul on January 1, 2003 07:08 PMfrom IP:Oh, be still my heart!!!...Paul, I luv you too!!!..you wanna be "adopted" also? I'll include Andrea and the girls...they'd love Florida! (Don't call me, I'll call you.) Love, Grandma Mildred, who just came out of her fog(gie)! Posted by: Grandma Mildred on January 1, 2003 07:28 PMfrom IP:Well Paul my deaf daughter's first words she picked out for the new year were... -ACCOMPLISH-to succed, to do, a goal that you want to attain. ACHIEVE- to gain that goal, ADAPT, to make fit sometimes by modification.ACRE, a broad expanse quantiy to make fit often by modification, APPLAUSE- feeling of self approval. She is nine. These were her words in our studing sign language at last night.(no coaxing on my part) a last word ...APPRECIATE- to grasp the quality, the nature. What's the saying ..out of the mouths of babes...Sometimes she seems so much wiser. She pick out these word all by herself. Suz Posted by: susan D on January 1, 2003 07:29 PMfrom IP:P.S her sentence for this year is I BELIEVE. Posted by: susan D on January 1, 2003 07:38 PMfrom IP:My new year so far has consisted of deep conversations about: So yeah, it's all off to a good start. And just a reminder to everyone, the Hopi ceremonial cycle of Soyal runs until Jan.6th, so no shouting and no digging! And teach your children why they should respect their elders! There's another good question: Why should children respect their elders? How would you explain it to your kids? Happy New Year kids! Posted by: Sarah (Uncle Peaches) on January 1, 2003 07:47 PMfrom IP:Happy New Year's Day to one and all. Yes, I know a little late and most likely a dollar short. So why should starting this new year be any different as the last few. HAPPY NEW YEAR 2003 Well, I spent NYE drunk of my butt... and wishing I was at home with my candles lit and Strictly Ballroom on my DVD player... My thing that I am goin to do this year is... um... I can't really think of anything... I guess I should quit smoking... I love my cigs... but I think they cause cancer or something (mental note: look up harmful tobacco statistics)... but Paul you are an inspiration, I hope that you do well with your weight loss (which is hard to do).... Happy New Years Everyone!!!
That's supposed to be off my butt... I was real drunk... :) Posted by: Amy Abbott on January 1, 2003 10:55 PMfrom IP:Paul, I totally get what you say about the new years resolutions. I gave them up a long time ago, because they don't work and I don't keep them anyway, so why make them? I make adjustements and changes to my life when they come up and when they make sense, not when some calendar date tells me to. The freedom that you built into your affirmation action plan is fantastic!!! and I hope you will thoroughly enjoy the process of growing and nurturing yourself!!! Grandma, I am sooooooo lost on this foogie/foggy word play. Would you care to enlighten me? PLEASE :) Must I beg and growl??? I can do it, but I'd much rather not do it (at least not in public ... LOL). I did not watch the ball drop in Time Squares either, quite frankly, I find that boring and don't get it, did like the fireworks around the world much more and of course saw the ones from Berlin, although had I been home, I wouldn't have gone there either, I like the local thing much more, where you go out on the street, meet your friends, neighbours and families and everyone shoots up the fireworks all over the place, it's usually freezing cold, but everyone toasts the New Year with champagne on the street with whoever happens to be out there. Okay, nobody has to get that one either, but it is kind of fun, less staged and much more spontaneous. So far the new year has been fantastic!!! I'm beginning to feel like a normal human being again, my friend Paula decided yesterday that my flu and cold had to stay in 2002 and was not allowed to continue on into 2003, I like the powers that she seems to have that I didn't know about :) I know where I'm going to go when I get sick again.... and I think I should check on my friend's dog today, since she's the only one who got drunk last night (I think). We let the dog drink champagne with us ... and she liked it, but her eyes looked a little funny later on in the evening. Poor Frannie! Off to visiting one of the four cats I'm taking care off over term break, if only they didn't live all over the Twin Cities... Posted by: Evelyn on January 2, 2003 12:19 AMfrom IP:Well happy new year guys. It's here and a very greyday in Atlanta. So very typical. I got the following from my friend in the keys..I think you'll like it.
Dusting (I think this is so wonderful): "A house becomes a home when you can write "I love you" on the furniture." I can't tell you how many countless hours that I have spent CLEANING! I used to spend Now, when people visit, I find no need to explain the "condition" of my home. They are Life is short. Enjoy it! Dust if you must, but wouldn't it be better Dust if you must, but there's not much time, with rivers to swim Dust if you must, but the world's out there with the sun in your Dust if you must, but bear in mind, old age will come and it's not Share this with all the wonderful women/men in your life! It's not what you gather, but what you scatter that tells what kind of Take it as a proverb...I think it says a lot for the new year. Focus on what you can do to enjoy and make your life better. No self imposed limits..just keep reaching and trying... Love to all and Happy New Year. Tim Posted by: TIM HORD on January 2, 2003 12:35 AMfrom IP:Hey Suz. How old is your daughter? She picked some great words and an awesome sentence. I hope 2003 is especially good to her as well as your whole family. Sarah, that's some heavy thinking. I take it you were doing some heavy drinking! I like your distinction between whether God meant "Thou Shalt Not Kill" or "Thou Shalt Not Commit Murder". That never occured to me, but I've often wondered about the "Thou shalt not bear false witness." commandment. Not every lie incriminates someone for something they didn't do. Does that mean the commandment doesn't apply to every lie? Evelynn! You got the dog drunk? Can dogs take ibuprophen? On the word thing: actually, if Grandma was describing herself as "a person with old-fashioned ideas.", she was calling herself an old fogy or fogey (there are two possible spellings), She accidentally called herself "foggie" a word that has a few definitions, one of them being "something that confuses or obsures." Get it? Ain't the English language great! I tried to drink all of my beer last night, but I hate a hangover and now I have three Beck's Dark taking up space in my tiny fridge. I guess I could go ahead and put them out of their misery. After all, beer doesn't improve with age. However, I chose not to. Maybe I'll ship them to Australia. And at the risk of sounding defensive, I use the calendar. It doesn't use me. From past experience, I've found that I'm more successful at making a whole-hearted commitment to a lifestyle change if I establish a date to begin. That's just me and I'm sure others know best what works for them. Like Nike says "Just Do It!" right? Posted by: Whitney on January 2, 2003 01:21 AMfrom IP:Thanks for sharing those Tim, especially the dust one. You could make sculpture from the stuff I've got going on most of the surfaces around me. I have priorities! And cleaning anything more than the dishes and bathroom, is pretty low on my list of things to do. I do enjoy a cleaner home though. I wish I could hire a maid! Posted by: Whitney on January 2, 2003 01:34 AMfrom IP:Paul, I must say that I disagree with you on New Year's Resolutions. They are not pointless, and I BELIEVE IN THEM! The only reason not to believe in them is if you can't make them work, and that's something each individual has to do for him or herself. The end of the year is a chance to reflect (once again, good 'ole self-assessment!) and figure out what you need to do better in the coming year. If you never did this, you'd never get any better! And nobody said a New Year's Resolution had to be giving up or losing anything. The best resolutions are just the opposite - resolving to do or gain something. The problem that most people have with New Year's Resolutions is that they don't take them seriously enough. To really have a good resolution that you can stick to, you need the following elements: Here's an example of my own: The two instances I can think of where Paul's overboard strategy will work are alcohol and chocolate. Eat or drink yourself sick one day, and you won't want to touch the stuff for a good couple weeks afterwards! ;) Paul, your "affirmative action plan" is a good idea, but it does suffer from a number of flaws, for the reasons denumerated above. How do you know what you've learned, and how can you tell if you're applying it in 2003 in order to evolve? I would suggest writing down a few things you've learned, and then what they have taught you to do differently. That way you can asses if you really are keeping your promise to yourself. I do commend you for "owning the responsibility... of continuing [your] growth." Just make sure that next New Year's you can look back and say "Yes, I did that. I kept my promise to myself." To be able to do that gives one a lot of pride and dignity. We all deserve a little of that, don't we? Love, P.S. BTW, not to be nitpicky, but the "every action has an equal and opposite reaction" is Newton's 3rd Law of Motion, 150 years or so before Einstein. And it's true. For everything you resolve to do, you have to give up the opposite. I will have to give up what I did the past 8 weeks from 9-10pm on Wednesdays (usually sitting around) in order to go to dance class. If you resolve to choose the lower-fat option on the menu, you are giving up the higher-fat option. Just keep in mind that the "equal and opposite reaction" is not always bad. Posted by: Caryn on January 2, 2003 02:52 AMfrom IP:Tim - I loved your thoughts on dusting. Very poetic, very true. My mom used to stress whenever we had friends over that they would see the house "in such a state". I always thought "what 'state'? It's always like this!" Finally I convinced her that guests didn't care - in fact, didn't notice - how clean or dirty it was. Guests come to be with YOU, not to be with your clean floor. The one exception I would make is that if you live with a roommate, you do have to keep a certain level of cleanliness and personal hygeine just out of respect for him or her. My roomies are awesome about this. I'm really lucky. Grandma - We love you, foggy-minded old fogey and all. ;) You and grandpa are invited over anytime. I'm serious. If ever you're in Ithaca (or Boston, during the school-year), let me know and I'll throw a party in your honour, including a viewing of SB. I love to cook and throw parties (just not wild drinking parties because then your house gets trashed). In fact, that invitation goes for everybody! Posted by: Caryn on January 2, 2003 03:06 AMfrom IP:Tim Hord, excellent post. I'm sharing this one with friends and copying it to put on the refrig. My friends would call me anal when it came to cleaning. I want you to know that under their influences, I have resolved this problem. I now live life and don't fret over small things like dust. I feel more comfortable walking into someone's house that looks lived in and not picture perfect.Was I keeping my house picture perfect for me because I was afraid how people might judge me? Or maybe a control thing? My house was clean and everything was under control....but...I'm was miserable because I missed a beautiful day out at Lake Berriessa. The lake or clean, the lake or clean? Do I tell friends that now is not a good time to come over (because secretly my house is a mess). Hell no! My door is always open! I love entertaining and would feed the whole block. During the summers my husband would always come home to people visiting, playing cards, dominos, swimming, ect..I realized life is better living it than trying to play catch-up. It's not what you gather, but what you scatter that tells what kind of life you have lived. I like to scatter love, people's feelings and thier happiness is important to me. Evelyn. Hey hope the dog with the hang over feels better. P.S. don't give him/her anything but a asprin, my dog takes one a day for her joints. Of course the dosage depends on the dogs weight. My dog is a mixed Newf (about the size of a large Colly). Caryn, I have to agree with you on the New Years Resolutions. To sum it up..BELIEVE.. the ability of something. Could you imagine if we all gave up the ability to believe in our selves? We have to set realistic goals in order to attain them and the main point is to give something back to yourselves. A gift to yourself... Paul, I have to admit I could have caught flys with my mouth so wide open when reading your post. Sorry I don't mean to be so harsh. At first I was dissapointed..then I read on. I can see your point of view. Doesn't mean I agree with it. We all have our methods of weaving though life and different tactics work for different people. Its sounds like your trying to protect yourself from let down. I'm not saying this is a bad thing. It's what works for you is what counts. My daughter signs a beautiful song..I believe I can fly.. She sets goals and learns from them. Suz Posted by: susan D on January 2, 2003 05:41 AMfrom IP:Good for you Suz. My mother always made me clean house with her on Saturday. I deeply resented it because this was the last possible day on which I would ever choose to clean anything. Now I've internalized this resistence. I'm telling myself to clean out the car but instead I hear my mother telling me to and I don't do it. It's just a theory. When making plans I always consider the beagle factor: will my dog be able to go with me and will he have a good time? Usually if it's an activity my dog would enjoy, I'm bound to like it too. Posted by: Whitney on January 2, 2003 07:26 AMfrom IP:Caryn, thankyou for your view on resolutions. My affirmation only has flaws according to your idea of resolutions. According to my idea it has no flaws. I dont need to quantify or qualify what it is I have learnt and how it is that I apply it nor if it is successful or not - that would imply a degree of judgement. It would also imply that I dont know 'me'. As Evelyn pointed out, there is freedom within my affirmative action plan. This allows me to be sponteneous, to be flexible and to be fully open to change. As for ensuring I keep my promise to myself - which is why according to your 7 point plan one must keep resolutions accountable - I dont make resolutions, there fore I dont make those kinds of promises - for the reason I outlined in my post. I am at ease with trusting myself to know what it is I am, what I have learnt and how I am becoming. Re-read my post, you seem to have missed the point. You certainly do not have to agree with me. What works for me may not work for anyone else. Thankyou for clearing up Newtons Law - it's a bit slack of me to have not checked it out properly. Now I hate to be nit picky - but the law is about balance and harmony. When you choose one reaction or action you dont give the other up, you actually get the other as well. It is a force that cant be split apart, the opposite reaction/action happens, you cannot avoid it - its law. It's how you deal with the forces at play upon you that directs the outcome of your enjoyment of the meal, the dance class or of life. Tim, I remember when I would walk to school or ride to a friends house. Spend the whole day playing out in the woods and come back scratched, bruised and sometimes bloody but happy and safe. My kids dont do any of that. I wish they could know that freedom but the world now is a bit different - more cars, less woods. The innocence of those times are lost - especially in the city. Sarah, I will think hard and too long on your question before replying. Ah Heck no I wont. Truth is subjective - isnt it?? There fore my truth is different to yours. There are some truths that we all agree on like if you put your hand in the fire you will burn it (if held in long enough) - although maybe some people burn quicker than others so again the truth may differ as will the length of time you hold your hand tin the flmaes. So is a collective truth a truth, a fact or a law???? What is the truth that man cannot comprehend? As far as I know, man cant comprehend itself and thats a truth, or is it a fact? It could certainly be a law - mans understanding of what is truth will be equal and opposite to his/her/it's comprehension of itself. Oh and children should respect their elders for two reasons: one because our elders repect themselves - lead by example and two because our elders respect children. Susans, your daughter sounds pretty clued in!! I believe too!!! Posted by: Paul on January 2, 2003 08:02 AMfrom IP:Dear Paul. . . Paul, Thanks for responding. Clearly we are talking about two different things, on two different levels. You're talking about a Life Plan; I'm talking about a New Year's Resolution (which can be part of a life plan, but obviously isn't on the same scale.) One must judge a Resolution in order for it to be a proveable promise. However, you're right that your Plan is much more flexible and open to interpretation, so it's more forgiving and less judgemental. I'm sorry I called it flawed, that was just me trying to superimpose your idea of a plan on my idea of a resolution. Clearly it was a bad parallel. Only you can really know yourself and know how to apply this Plan to your life. I think I balked at your initial post because, to me, the first part implied that you didn't believe in yourself... that you didn't believe in your ability to keep a promise to yourself. That made me sad. I thought maybe you (and others) were just going about resolutions the wrong way, because I certaintly believe in you and your ability to do that to which you put your mind! So, if it's this Plan - instead of a Resolution - that works for you, then I'm sure you'll do it. Let us know how it goes. :) While I respect your view and see how it works for you, I still don't agree with you fully because I know it won't work for me. I need more tangible goals. Whereas you don't make concrete resolutions because you'll break them, I don't make intangible plans because I'm sure I won't follow them (unless by accident). We're just different in that way. Also, I stick by my view of Newton's Law and how it applies to this discussion. He was talking about matter, energy, and how they displace each other. When you jump out of a boat, the energy you put into propelling yourself forward will also displace the boat backwards. I'm talking about time and choices, and how one choice will displace the other. When I choose to go to class, it's displacing what else I might have done in that frame of time. See what I mean? Caryn Posted by: Caryn on January 2, 2003 08:51 AMfrom IP:One more thing, about the way kids play today. It reminds me of that song in the musical - can't remember which one, but perhaps it's "Bye Bye Birdie": Kids! What's the matter with kids today? Yes, it's hard when you live in a dangerous city to romp in the fields, but there were dangerous cities when Paul and Tim were growing up, too! And isn't that part of the reason why you moved to the country, Paul? What kids need today is grown-ups to show them (us!) the way we should play. And to teach us non-violence. I think the real sad thing today is that parents are often too busy to spend that time with their kids. Not that it's the parent's fault per se, it's the work-a-holic society that leaves us with no time. I'm lucky that my mom was there for me when I got home from school (and my dad soon thereafter), and that we live in a safe place where I can go romping through the fields behind our house. I only hope that my kids will be as lucky as I am. Posted by: Caryn on January 2, 2003 09:07 AMfrom IP:I'm glad to read the two of you hashing this out. You have lovely minds though she may have a firmer hold in the physics dept. I could be wrong. And I agree we should lead by example and respect children. When I was little, children were treated like second class citizens and women were treated like children (often still are). Goodnight Millie! Posted by: Whitney on January 2, 2003 10:38 AMfrom IP:I am not taking sides here, just giving my humble opinion. It is my OPINION that everyone reacts differently in any given situation (as we have seen with this debate between Paul and Caryn). Perhaps the psychologists are right in that everything stems from your childhood. I understand where you are coming from Caryn, since I have known you almost my whole life. But, I also understand Paul's statements. I have grown up with more dissapointment and hell than I wish to remember. I haven't made a NYR in a long while. When I was a little girl I used to wish for things(to have a better life, to be beautiful, to have my parents love eachother)... the funny thing is these wishes never came to me on New Years. Just when I was most desperate for hope. Perhaps so much dissapointment in life has robbed me of my belief in resolutions, or perhaps I make mini-resolutions every day; so what's the point of New Years ones? While attempting to crawl out of the depression of my life, I have been thinking a lot about my life and how I act in situations. My reactions are very different from many people's; my reactions are to ensure my survival. Somewhere deep down inside, I know that more dissapointment would do more damage than good. Caryn, the other day you asked me what my NYR was, and I had to stop and think. I just told you the first thing that came to mind. That thing is what I do every day just to keep myself alive. It isn't really a NYR then, but me growing all the time. In my opinion structure is good for you Caryn, you thrive under it (you're my dependable old pug) :) And I know you will keep the promises to yourself. As my mother says: "live your own life, and let others live theirs." and "try to look at it from other perspectives." So girl- I know i'm not as smart as you, and i'm a hell of a lot smaller than you... but i'm pulling some seniority here. (I was born first... haha.) :) Go write your 20 page paper before I bust out a can of whoop-ass on you (and then you'll have to take me to the hospital) :) I love you, and thanks for making my life worth living! Don't change sweetie. mwwwaaaa! for the rest of you, have a nice night! hey everyone! Happy late new years! I was in Atlanta for New years and just got back tonight and there were so many posts to read. thanx! It sounds like everyone had a wonderful New year!! Evelyn- I hope your friends dog is feeling better, even though im 16 and don't drink yet my friend's mom let my friend and I have some champagne for New Years, only one glass, I thought it was good, it did give me some what of a headache but that may of been because of the fact we didn't get to sleep till around four =). Tim- Thank you so so much for those thoughts, I loved reading them! It really makes you think!! im going to show it to my mom because I know she'd like to read it too! thanks again!! ;) Posted by: Kelli on January 2, 2003 10:52 AMfrom IP:Okay, to all of you concerned about my friend's dog, she's doing just fine!!!! The only effect it had on her is that she slept in this morning, which made my friend very happy. No throwing up, blanace problems etc. I'll respond to some of the other exchanges tomorrow when I got some sleep. Tim, I like your posts very much, and will share them with some of my friends and family. The one about the dusting made me laugh very hard, b/c that's one thing I unfortunately have to do a lot. I'm highly allergic to dust, so I must remove it, but otherwise, I like the homey, not totally straightened out feeling too, rather than overdoing the neat and proper tidy state of my apartment--I hope the universe does not transmit this to my grandma (No I'm not talking about my newly adopted grandma) or else she might come an haunt me ... :) I love her, but her standards of neatness and tidiness were unreal and that's the part I didn't like about her visits. She'd checked out my room and no matter how hard I tried to straighten it out, it was never good enough, she even checked out my school note books and if there was even one ink blotch in there, she'd make me copy the entire damn note book over until it was as neat as she expected it to be. Definitely anal, repulsive etc. and not how I want to live or do live in fact, there are much more important things as is the point of your posts. 2003 - wOw!! I'm ready -- 2002 was just fine, but always look forward to the new year.... Good morning, Whitney! Caryn, thank you for your sweet invitation to visit you either in New York or Boston..(love that town!) The closest we get is Connecticut and New Jersey in the summer, when we visit with our daughters and their families. We don't stay long, just enough to get re-acquainted with some of our grandchildren before they go off to camp. Too bad we can't have a "Strictly Ballroom" Lovers Evelyn, I was relieved to know that I was not the Grandma you were talking about. I would hate to alienate any of my "adopted" brood! Tim, yes, I had read about the children of the 40s Paul, you and the other "youngsters" on this site are so eloquent, so worldly, so passionate in your views, so kind, concerned, and respectful to each other and to your elders (me) that it is a pleasure to be among you...actually, you have no choice...if "Strictly Ballroom" is involved, here I am, warts and all! Linda, welcome! Yes, "Strictly Ballroom" has brought us together, and now, because of the sudden interest in Baz Luhrmann's projects, it has again attracted a whole new generation of admirers...without Paul's magnificent talent in acting and dancing, it would not have become the international hit that it became right after Paul's performance and his interaction with Tara Morice, his co-star, make this film unforgettable, and addictive. It can be deemed a true classic! It is my all-time favorite musical-drama, and I go back a long time! Love, Grandma :) Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 2, 2003 04:58 PMfrom IP:...AND LET'S HEAR IT FOR CAT CONNOR, WHOSE TALENTS BROUGHT THIS SITE TO THE INTERNET, IN PAUL'S HONOR!!! HIP, HIP, HURRAY, CAT, AND THANKS...LOVE YOU!!! XXXXXX Grandma (again) Posted by: MILDRED LEVINE on January 2, 2003 05:48 PMfrom IP:Good morning Grandma! Yes, this is a lively bunch Millie and it's fun just to read the posts. You sure know your SB info! It would be cool to see it on the biggest screen possible. And I wouldn't doubt that it was the best movie from the collection because Paul absolutely kicked ass in it!!!!!!! It's undeniable! You mentioned a get together for SB, have you ever looked for a site on "Somewhere in Time" with Jane Seymore and Chris Reeve? They actually do have conventions. You should check it out. No shouting or digging until after Jan 6th? I can do that and honor the Hopi with Uncle Peaches and bluedog. As Grandma pointed out, you made this possible Cat. Participating is fun and interesting! Thank you. Happy New Year to you Kelli. Atlanta sounds like fun! Champagne gives me a headache too! Did you get some good rest Evelyn? I'm glad the dog's ok. I'm glad you're not a slave to cleaning like your grandma was. I liked the way my grandmother kept house. She drew the line at cobwebs. Though I cleaned house for her the last few years of her life, I didn't realize how much she did until after her death. And as I mentioned, she didn't make it the highest of her priorities. Being a housewife she was just naturally on it as it needed doing. Hey Paul. Linda Thomas had some good thoughts and questions. I also have wondered if you should go for Broadway. I guess it would take you away from home initially, but maybe you can find a way to minimize this. The world is your oyster Paul! What do you really want to do with your life? Posted by: Whitney on January 2, 2003 09:49 PMfrom IP:Dear Paul, Happy New Year (well, belated). Speaking of resolutions, mine is to be more independent. Last year, I did not move out of my house, but, this year, I'm going to save up for an apartment and for a new car. Paul, do you think it's fair for the child who's in their 20's pay a boarder's fee to their parents while living under their roof? It frustrates me sometimes when I think my dreams of independency is going to shatter. Sometimes I feel like a slave whos freedom was taken away. What I said two sentences ago are my true feelings of how I still live with my parents and pay a boarder's fee. I have another New Years Resolution: start my office career. Right now, I'm in a position called bussing. I work for the ABC Commisary Restaurant at MGM. Wiping down the tables and sweeping are ok, but when it comes to trash runs, I hate it!! It would be nice to work in the office at Disney. I just hope they accept my training. If not, I'll keep on trying. Paul, wheneven you don't get accepted in the role for the movie, try again for the auditions, whether the same part or for a different movie. I believe that you will have a good year. With your acting abilities, you're still my #1 fan. Today is January 2 already. Wow. Next year will be leap year which means 366 days. Hope you are ready for it. You know, it's pretty cool that Australia ring in the New Year first. On December 29th, I worked til 11, got home by midnignt, got up in the morning, December 30th, at 4:30 to go back to work by 6:30. Thankfully though that I didn't get cranky at work. Then, December 31st, I worked from 4 until 1:30. I tried to stay dry, but in Florida there was rain and I got drenched even when I wore a trash bag to protect my body from being soak. Let my tell you, one of the wettest New Year's in my life. Were there any days, during the filming of Joseph, where you were so tired and cranky? And do you ever keep in contact with any of the main actors from the Joseph movie? Especially Leslie Anne Warren? Well, Paul, be commenting later. Hope you'll comment back. Your fan, Sara Posted by: Sara on January 2, 2003 11:38 PMfrom IP:susan d -- thanks for the kick. sarah (UP) -- comic book heroes...wish i had been there for that conversation. hope wonder woman was in the list somewhere, maybe tucked between superman, batman, capt. marvel?? paul -- sounds like we sort of agree on resolutions if you read my brief post in last thread -- better to gain something/affirm. i gave up meat for lent when i was 14 and gave up lent for lent when i was 15. i figured, why do i need this rite to help me...and, well, if something is worth giving up for 40 days, isn't it worth giving up for good?? so, no more red meat since. wish my thinking was as black and white now as it was then sometimes. seemed when i was younger and made up my mind to do something, that was it. it was done. now i'm a "tomorrow is another day" kind of gal, which can be good and bad. but, i also agree with caryn that they shouldn't be looked down on as the first lie either...they could be the first truth of the new year for some people. and caryn, i, coincidentally, did the exact same thing with dance classes last year as you. woohoo. yay us. ciao for now. Posted by: texas on January 3, 2003 02:29 AMfrom IP:You are not fooling yourself regarding your approach to New Year's resolutions. Your comment: "I am owning the responsibilty of being me, of making and meeting my goals, of continueing my growth and fulfilling the promise of my creative soul." That's a *great* attitude. Continue to be well. Peace to you and yours, Joan P. Erie, CO (USA) Posted by: Joan P. on January 3, 2003 07:53 AMfrom IP:I must confess that I've only been restricting my food options for two days and already, I've gotten urges for food I wasn't even eating, like hot dogs and soda pop. There's something to Paul's observation that we want what we tell ourselves we can't have, almost compulsively! I have to laugh at my mind the way it operates. It's a survivor, a manipulator. But I beat it when I gave up cigarettes. Once I figured out how to control my thoughts by redirecting them I had the upper hand. My brain isn't me, just another organ (though a very important one). I did an upper body workout today and 40 minutes of aerobics. Yes, it's a pain in the ass but, it feels good to get back into my free weights. I did the workout in 59 minutes; you're supposed to try and do it in 46. The brevity of the training appeals to me. I can do anything for 46 minutes!!!! I'm taking the required "before picture" tomorrow, but you guys won't see it. Maybe I'll post the "after" one. Goodnight Grandma Hey Guys: Texas-- And thank you to everyone helping to celebrate Soyal; the situation among the Hopi in Hotevilla (the last traditional Hopi village) was dire and desperate a few years ago, I can imagine it must be all but gone now. According to the Hopi, this means dire things for the planet and the (very accurate) fufillment of the worst of the prophecies. Interesting stuff to research, I highly recommend it and some reading on the Mayans. But I digress. Tim, BIG pat on the back for your success on your weight loss and sticking to it. It was reflected in your post. You sound very proud of yourself and justly so. Best of luck on your classes. Hey let us know if ya need a thump. Whitney, I'd give you a kick but you beat me to it. You go girl! Lets see... I had a beer during our domino's game so I'm due to do some aerobics. You have inspired me. Hey where's my kick? Gee does this mean I have to wait till tomorrow?:) Texas,Evelyn,Paul and others here's your kick.. Paul, My daughter Samantha wants me to tell you that she really liked your movie and she watches it over and over, she says that you are really good at dancing and she loves to dance too. She wants to say Hi. She was happy you liked her sentence for this year.It put a big smile on her face. She also was surprise that you answer the most of the posts and that you take time for this web sight. Her question to you is..Was it hard dancing in the movie SB and doing ballroom dancing steps? She also wonders how you got to be in the movie? Suz and Sami Posted by: susan D on January 3, 2003 03:17 PMfrom IP:Good Morning Grandma! Before I step on my elliptical trainer I want to give a double virtual kick in the butt to Suz, texas, Tim, Evelyn, and of course, Paul. Did I leave any kicks out? Tim that's great!! How wonderful that you're getting more recognition! There's nothing like some time spent in NYC to give you some extra confidence (I drove there once and now I'm fearless behind the wheel!). And of course the training will do even more to get you closer to your goal of kicking ass in Cosmotology. You know this NYR thing has never been very important to me. I quit making them years ago. I'm like you, I just happen to be working on something and I felt I could use the resolution to strengthen my personal comittment. Congratulations on sticking with your routine! Uncle Peaches, what were the worst of the Hopi prophecies? Thanks for keeping me informed. Posted by: Whitney on January 3, 2003 09:38 PMfrom IP:Au, au, au --stop kicking me!!! :)))) okay, not, --I am going to the gymn after having had some herbal immune system boosting tea! I really did miss it while being sick and this reminds me of a long overdue THANK YOU to all of you wishing me that I'd shake this bout with the flu quickly, so THANK YOU! Another few delayed responses: Suz, you have one hell of a daughter!!! When you posted her chosen words and the sentence the other day, it just blew my mind, chin dropping somewhere down to my knees and leaving me speechless. Will you give her a hug from me and keep nurturing that beautiful soul she has? Kelli, I haven't forgotten about getting you more input about Baylor, just haven't heard from my friend, who's most likely in Europe over term break. When I get her response I will send it to your email if that's okay, rather than posting it here. Whitney, thanks for explaning the foggy/foogey word play, it does make sense now and sure, the way things are spelled multiply in English, gets to be confusing at times to us, the non-native speakers/writers/spellers of English. And did I get enough rest the other night? Hmmm, rest, yep, sleep, nope, YOU GUYS KEPT ME UP PRETTY MUCH ALL NIGHT :), giving me so much to think about and triggering all sorts of thoughts and memories, but it was good thinking even though still not exactly sorted out in my mind. Caryn, your posts reminded me in many ways of who I was when I was in my early twenties. I wanted very clear structures, goals (okay, not in all areas of my life, but in a lot of them) because it felt safe, it was what I was used to, had grown up with and I think that these boundaries helped me to explore certain areas of me in a clear, "safe" environment but I was always chasing after something out there that wasn't me, that I felt I was expected to be though. The entire stuff with the resolutions, which for me would work as a perfect means for self-judging/ self-criticism and a tool to pull myself down--hence I reject them for myself and the whole positive affirmation / assessment adjustment, which very strongly appeals to me is still working in my mind, but here are a few thoughts. Over the Thanksgiving Holiday I took some time out to write about all the things I was thankful for and over the Xmas Holidays I sat down and wrote down things that I love, two days later things that I value and then a day later things I spend money, time and energy on. It really helps me see 'me' who I am, who I have become and am becoming and of course in the whole writing exercise it was & is important not to be judgmental or judge what you write down. I do want to go back and look at this soon to see how much of how I spend my money, time and energy overlaps (or not) with what I love and value and then begin to make adjustments if I choose to do that or feel the need for it. In some way this sounds perhaps like making resolutions, but I don't think it is for me, because I make resolutions based on a notion of who I think I need or should be, thus not accepting who I am now, and in that way the resolution is focused and based on something I am not. In the reassessment it comes more out of who I am, it comes out of my soul and in that way I feel I'm essentially part of the process, moving along with it and I'm doing it for me not for an idealized version of me. This is perhaps getting a bit too technical or clinical...but both of these writing "exercises" have helped me to focus on the positive away from the negative that I very often chose to focus on. Tim, congratulations on the weight loss and for sticking to your exercise plan. Whitney, congrats on starting yours!!! and here's another round of electronic kicks to all of you/us, and a double one for you, Suz, one for today and one for tomorrow. Don't all these electronic kicks begin to count as work outs??? Okay, off to the gym, yeah!!!!! I really am looking forward to this and I'm not kidding about it. I really missed it!!!! Posted by: Evelyn on January 3, 2003 10:31 PMfrom IP:Whitney: Yes, many movie buffs have conventions. I almost went to a "Gone With The Wind" convention in Atlanta, (Hi, Tim!) years ago, when I was still teaching, and our kids were in high school. I even got as far as calling the airlines to find out about a reservation, but got cold feet, and decided not to go. (I guess I changed my mind when my husband said, incredulously, "Are you kidding????") I took the hint...(I guess that's one of the reasons we are still married for 50 years!) Instead, for GWTW's 50th anniversary, my principal allowed me to take my class, with mothers as chaperones, to see GWTW at
Today, I write about that experience, but "Strictly Ballroom" has replaced GWTW as my #1 It's no longer Rhett Butler, it's Scott Hastings, and it's not Scarlett O'Hara, but "Fran...just Fran!" Sue, I don't know how old your child is, but SB has been recommended as a teaching tool in the classroom...just find www.teachwithmovies.org and Tim, you wanna have a dieting buddy? I suddenly turned over a new leaf, and am going to try harder for the New Year. No resolution, just common sense. At my age it's hard to diet and have success, but I'm on my indoor bike for 20 minutes each day to start. I have arthritis, and cannot walk for exercise. I will be 70 this month, and I want to look better on stage and in the real world! My variety show is in early March...I hope my costumes fit! I thank you, Tim, for inspiring me, and by living in Atlanta. You helped me bring back those memories...By the way, did you ever try to find "Tara"?.. (the GWTW mansion, not Morice, our wonderful "Fran".) Don't bother looking...in the book it was in
Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 3, 2003 10:31 PMfrom IP:Whitney: Yes, many movie buffs have conventions. I almost went to a "Gone With The Wind" convention in Atlanta, (Hi, Tim!) years ago, when I was still teaching, and our kids were in high school. I even got as far as calling the airlines to find out about a reservation, but got cold feet, and decided not to go. (I guess I changed my mind when my husband said, incredulously, "Are you kidding????") I took the hint...(I guess that's one of the reasons we are still married for 50 years!) Instead, for GWTW's 50th anniversary, my principal allowed me to take my class, with mothers as chaperones, to see GWTW at
Today, I write about that experience, but "Strictly Ballroom" has replaced GWTW as my #1 It's no longer Rhett Butler, it's Scott Hastings, and it's not Scarlett O'Hara, but "Fran...just Fran!" Sue, I don't know how old your child is, but SB has been recommended as a teaching tool in the classroom...just find www.teachwithmovies.org and Tim, you wanna have a dieting buddy? I suddenly turned over a new leaf, and am going to try harder for the New Year. No resolution, just common sense. At my age it's hard to diet and have success, but I'm on my indoor bike for 20 minutes each day to start. I have arthritis, and cannot walk for exercise. I will be 70 this month, and I want to look better on stage and in the real world! My variety show is in early March...I hope my costumes fit! I thank you, Tim, for inspiring me, and by living in Atlanta. You helped me bring back those memories...By the way, did you ever try to find "Tara"?.. (the GWTW mansion, not Morice, our wonderful "Fran".) Don't bother looking...in the book it was in
Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 3, 2003 10:32 PMfrom IP:Whitney: Yes, many movie buffs have conventions. I almost went to a "Gone With The Wind" convention in Atlanta, (Hi, Tim!) years ago, when I was still teaching, and our kids were in high school. I even got as far as calling the airlines to find out about a reservation, but got cold feet, and decided not to go. (I guess I changed my mind when my husband said, incredulously, "Are you kidding????") I took the hint...(I guess that's one of the reasons we are still married for 50 years!) Instead, for GWTW's 50th anniversary, my principal allowed me to take my class, with mothers as chaperones, to see GWTW at
Today, I write about that experience, but "Strictly Ballroom" has replaced GWTW as my #1 It's no longer Rhett Butler, it's Scott Hastings, and it's not Scarlett O'Hara, but "Fran...just Fran!" Sue, I don't know how old your child is, but SB has been recommended as a teaching tool in the classroom...just find www.teachwithmovies.org and Tim, you wanna have a dieting buddy? I suddenly turned over a new leaf, and am going to try harder for the New Year. No resolution, just common sense. At my age it's hard to diet and have success, but I'm on my indoor bike for 20 minutes each day to start. I have arthritis, and cannot walk for exercise. I will be 70 this month, and I want to look better on stage and in the real world! My variety show is in early March...I hope my costumes fit! I thank you, Tim, for inspiring me, and by living in Atlanta. You helped me bring back those memories...By the way, did you ever try to find "Tara"?.. (the GWTW mansion, not Morice, our wonderful "Fran".) Don't bother looking...in the book it was in
Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 3, 2003 10:32 PMfrom IP:Fiddle-dee-dee, my post certainly did get screwed up, didn't it? I beg your pardon..I only wrote one..how in the ----did I end up with 3? Embarrassed Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 3, 2003 10:43 PMfrom IP:Evelyn- Thanks so much!! thats perfectly fine for you to email me!! =)this week Im thinking of becoming a dental hygenist since I use to want to be that when I was little, lol who knows! Thank you again!! Susan- Your daughter sounds so delightful!! tell her I give her my best wishes of a happy 2003! Keep watching SB!!! XXOO Whitney- I know what you mean about the food you can't have. After the holidays I try to go back to my normal eating habits but for those couple of weeks in january im always left full because for the holidays I had gotten use to eating so much! its hard but I always get over it!! 'Wink' Grandma- My other grandma loves GWTW so much! I have so many memories of going to her house and curling up on her sofa and watching it with her and my cousins! it was great! the same way for the Sound of music! I guess I'll get older and show everyone Strictly Ballroom, and they'll love to come over and watch it at my house!! ;) Love to everyone!!! Millie, check out a Web site called www.wonderfulbuys.com. Last year I bought my refurbished Orbitrek (elliptical trainer) from them for $99 and they paid shipping! I think you'd love it! I do. It won't hurt your fanny like a stationary bike. Do you have access to any weight equipment? Evelyn, I'll have to make those lists myself. They sound like a good tool for self-assessment. Though I'm sure you won't want to take it this far, you've reminded me of a book I stumbled onto at the public library years ago. It was called "Self Watching" I believe and it was either written by or based on, the behavioural theories of Benjamin Franklin. It seems he believed that you could better change undesirable behaviour by keeping a close eye on the activities of your life. He kept track of all sorts of information. Personally I think he could have benefited from some of our modern medicines for OCD, but your lists sound enlightening and edifying. Posted by: Whitney on January 3, 2003 11:12 PMfrom IP:Hi guys!Hi Paul! For all of you GWTW fans, there really is a "Tara". It is North of Alexandria, Louisiana, been there, lovely bed and breakfast now, but it was used as a model for the interior and exterior setting for the Stage set. They have a lot of photos and sketches that were drawn. The scene where Scarlet shoots the Union Soldier, actually took place in this old mansion. Supposedly the blood stain is still under the carpet on the staircase. Welcome Agnieszka! Where are you? How did you get such a unique name? You're so right about Paul being talented! It's easy to idolize him. Read some of his threads and you'll see what a sensitive and intelligent thinker he is: good looks, talent and a mind too. I guess that's why his blog attracts such a wide variety of cool people. Posted by: Whitney on January 4, 2003 04:31 AMfrom IP:Okay, to show what my project for the new year will be (cuz I don't have any weight to lose, although i could concentrate on getting a job.....heh heh heh), I'm gonna post the first of it here. I'm studying Sindarin, the language of the grey-elves in LOTRings, and for those of you out there who enjoy the elven-speak, mae govannen! Anirim cuil Anirim pen, Tirim pen ***Note, of course the accents won't show up on here, so it's typographically incorrect, but screw it****** And the French version, pour les personnes francophone: Je souhaite un vie Je souhaite un personne, Je cherche pour un personne So I say we all make new year's projects and see how they turn out and share with everyone! Good compromise? Posted by: Sarah (Uncle Peaches) on January 4, 2003 08:40 AMfrom IP:HEY GUYS I confess Tim, it was me that loves "Somewhere in Time". I can't resist a supernatural thriller with a paradox. What's the name of the Lindsey Wagoner movie? It sounds interesting. I did my aerobics today. Glad you had a good day too! Hope everyone else did as well. Butt kicks all 'round!!!!!!!!!! Goodnight Grandma! Posted by: Whitney on January 4, 2003 09:48 AMfrom IP:Thanks for the kicks everyone. I was a good girl today and did the aerobics. Grandma Mildred, thank you for the web sight. I'm going to check it out as soon as I log off of here. Sami says thank you for think of her. She is excited about visting the web sight. Kelli,Thanks for the best wishes of 2003. The best to you too from Sami and I. Evelyn, thanks for the hugs:)Sami sends one back. Paul, Evelyn,Tim and Texas here's a big kick. Suz Posted by: susan davison on January 4, 2003 10:55 AMfrom IP:Susan, so glad that Sami has interest in the site When the home page opens, go to "Alpabetical" and when that comes up, click on "S" for "Strictly Ballroom"..you will see many movies, so look carefully! There are tons of other movies, including the children's classics, all reviewed! Paul, the site is so complimentary to you, especially. You have inspired many people of all ages to take up dancing, which changed their lives! "Strictly Ballroom" also heightened my interest in Australia Every time I hear an accent anywhere, I think, is that person from Australia or England?? I have studied Australia on the Internet, and even in tourist guide books. Last spring, when Tara Morice opened in the Australia premiere of a prestigeous American play, "Spinning Into Butter" at the Ensemble Theatre in Sydney, my husband and I looked into the prospect of going to Australia, seeing Tara in her play, going backstage and meeting her, and then going on tour! Our children wanted to give us that trip as our 50th anniversary present. We had to drop that idea when we found out that the plane trip from Florida to Australia was over 22 hours, one way...not a good idea, healthwise, for us oldsters. (Tim, I can understand why you would like to go to Australia, also.) I would love to exchange photos with everyone on this site...I am fearless,and promise not to dye my hair, Tim, in order to keep up with all you "youngsters"...I have earned every wrinkle, every double chin, and every gray hair! Have a good weekend, everyone! Elliott and I have a Saturday rehearsal for the show...the first week in March (the grand opening) will be coming up fast! Enjoy the weekend, everyone! :) Love, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 4, 2003 05:26 PMfrom IP:Excuse me, here I am again: I really don't want to dominate the posts today (Saturday morning) but I just found something in our south Florida morning newspaper that may be of interest to the twenty-year-olds, like Sara. Sara, your post about how you are expected to pay a boarder's fee to your parents interested me. I am not going to make a judgment on this one...every situation is unique! I did read a letter written to an advice columnist, from a twenty-year-old young woman "Quarterlife Crisis: The Unique Challenges of Life in Your Twenties" by Alexandra Robbins and Abby Wilner. I don't know if this book will address the issues that you mentioned, but maybe it's worth a try! Love, and best wishes, Grandma Mildred Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 4, 2003 10:34 PMfrom IP:thanx whitney and susan d for your encouragement. i'm flying back to nyc today (car's in the shop down here in nashville. i'll fly back next week to pick it up and drive home with the dog). i'm looking forward to sleeping in my own bed. i will miss mom, but am grateful her health is so well i am able to return home. she's gonna bawl when i leave. mom's are funny. hopefully when i get back in my nyc routine, i will have more time to read every post. i know by skimming them, i'm missing the meat. sorry guys. enjoy your weekend everyone. talk to you soon. Posted by: texas on January 4, 2003 10:39 PMfrom IP:Hey well its Saturday morning, Yesterday I slept till 12 trying to catch up on lost sleep I had over new years but today Im feeling much more rested!! ;) I hope everyone is too! Paul, I have something to ask you, you remember Steven Grace the actor/dancer who played "Luke" in SB? well I was watching the commentary on SB and they said he also dances in Moulin Rouge. I was shocked because I had thought that before. When I was little and use to watch SB Luke and Kylie were some of my favorite characters besides Scott and Fran. I just wanted to see ifu know of any movies or other dances he has been in. I hope your enjoying the warmth in Australia. Take Care ;) Texas, Have a safe and happy trip!! =) Grandma, I love reading your posts, and I want to here more about your show it sounds so interesting! I had an interest in Autralia too ever since SB and then...well this may sound sorta silly but the Croc hunter as well!! lol I loved to watch his show and see the "Outback"!! he is so funny! well Grandma I hope you are doing wonderfully!!! have a good week! Susan, no problem! yourdaughter sounds so smart, what grade is she in?? hope you and Sami are having a wonderful week!! Love to everyone!! XXOO's happy new year!! Posted by: kate on January 5, 2003 03:52 AMfrom IP:Kelli, my daughter is in 4th grade, my son is in 5th. They are very close in age and are like twins. My son was 10 months old when I found out I was carring my daughter.(don't ever listen to that old wives tale you can't get pregnant when nursing). My children are living proof that it's not true!:) Grandma Mildren, Have you seen the movie "Shall We Dance". I haven't and was wondering if I should rent it. I found it listed on the www.teachwithmovie.org. Paul,Evelyn,Tim and Texas...KICK Suz Posted by: Susan D on January 5, 2003 04:45 AMfrom IP:Hi Grandma. I'm sad to hear that you can't travel long distances by air. Would you be able to take a cruise? The book you mentioned sounds interesting. I no doubt, could have used some direction at that point in my life (and every other). I thought I'd read every self-help book ever written, but I somehow missed that one. Have a safe trip back to NYC, texas. I know what you mean about preferring your own bed. I hope this isn't too personal, but what ails your mom? I'm glad to hear she's feeling better. Thanks for the mini kick Suz. I did 35 minutes on my elliptical trainer and 20 minutes this evening on my favorite nature trail (doggy likes this one). I also did my lower body workout (36 minutes), took my "before" picture and regisered for the BFL Challenge. I'm the picture of determination! Though it isn't a part of the Hiltonhead Metabolism diet, tomorrow is my free day in the Body For Life Challenge. I don't have to exercise and I can eat anything I want! I'm going to my favorite steak house with my little sister. Butt kicks all 'round!!!!!!!!!! Goodnight Grandma. Posted by: Whitney on January 5, 2003 04:47 AMfrom IP:Susan, "Shall We Dance" is a Japanese film that was well received internationally but it has subtitles that for many may be annoying. It is interesting, enough, but not for children. It is the story of a rather dull Japanese accountant who in order to put some spice in his life decides one night to take dancing lessons at a dance studio he spots from the train that he takes home each night. One critic said it was "reminiscent" of "Strictly Ballroom." What an insult! No way does this film resemble our SB! Kelli, one day I will post a very short overview of my variety show, "Follies 2003: Love Is In The Air". We had a good rehearsal today, running through the show (39 acts) in l hr. 45 min., no intermission! All I can say is, there are four acts that come from the music of our "Strictly Ballroom". I produced and directed Follies '97, '99, 2000 and now this, and I am happy to say, all of these programs were different, and all well received with complete ticket sellouts each time! I understand that ticket sales are very brisk this time too. We hope to open in our brand new renovated Theatre, if it ever gets finished in time...we've already been postponed from January to March. Goodnight, Whitney! Love, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 5, 2003 06:18 AMfrom IP:Lindsay Wagner's movie is The two Worlds of Jennie Logan (1979).It was a made for TV flick and can be found on ebay. Some blockbusters have it. Thanks for getting that movie title for me Tim. I'll have to check it out. What's the name of the program for standard English? My twang is mighty bad! Actually, my accent is minimal compared to many around me, however, when I was in Chicago recently one person thought I sounded extremely "southern". My parents almost moved us to Australia when I was 10. They sent a letter inquiring about taxes. Whoever read the letter, thought they had written the word "taxis" and told my parents that "The taxis run from one end of the street to the other.". Needless to say, we decided to stay here and I'm glad we did, because I would have missed my grandmother! Posted by: Whitney on January 5, 2003 08:48 AMfrom IP:Susan, your daughter seems so much wiser than her years, a very smart girl!. Im so glad that she has a brother that is close to her. My brother and I are 3 years apart and have a similar relationship, is wonderful to have that, hope all is well! Grandma, your variety show sounds very interesting and I bet it will be wonderful too see. I wish I had seen the others that you had done before, it sounds like something I would have enjoyed! I bet lots of people who saw it loved it! Im glad that you had a good rehearshal =). do you direct also? I can't wait to hear your overview of it. take care Grandma!! Hope everyone is doing great!! lots of love!! Shall We Dance did indeed come out after Strictly. I remember seeing it advertised and thinking imitation is the greatest form of flattery. Strictly was very popular in Japan and an interesting fact for those that may not of known - it was called "Dancing Hero" Tim a belated congrats on the commitment to working out and trimming up!! What is the deal with the kicks??? I am not sure my over sensitive ( not oversized!) butt needs any!! I'm at work - Sunday! Very quiet. Mmmmmmmmmmmm.......What was the meaning of life again??? Posted by: Paul on January 5, 2003 11:15 AMfrom IP:The meaning of life = to propagate one's genes. Posted by: Caryn on January 5, 2003 11:21 AMfrom IP:Working on Sunday! That sucks! So you arent as big as your posts led me to believe? And here I was pulling for you! Well, no more virtual kicks in the butt for you. Posted by: Whitney on January 5, 2003 11:22 AMfrom IP:Caryn! You're suppose to be working on that paper girl! You couldn't help yourself could you? Posted by: Whitney on January 5, 2003 11:25 AMfrom IP:(sheepish grin) :) thanks for getting me back on track, whit! Posted by: Caryn on January 5, 2003 11:26 AMfrom IP:No problem. Nose to the grindstone and all that stuff!!! Posted by: Whitney on January 5, 2003 11:29 AMfrom IP:Hey Paul, Just a quick question about your last post: If your butt is not over-sized, then what is making it so over-sensitive? Just curious. It just occurred to me how ridiculous I sound talking about your butt as it's own entity. Well, judging by some of the posts on these boards, it certaintly does seem to have forged its own fame and attracted its own admirers... lol! :) Anyway, remember that there's no shame in soliciting a little help from friends. As the Beatles said, "Oooh, I get by with a little help from my friends." So, here's a kick in the butt for our "Dancing Hero". Not that you have to take it... remember our earlier discussion of following your heart and not the advice of others because only you know what's best for you. But I mean that kick only in the friendliest of ways, should you choose to accept it. Now, somebody give ME some more kicks to keep chugging through the night at this 20 page paper!! (Thank you, Whit! :) Bed-less in Boston, I am sick and tired of being the butt of other peoples jokes!! I think it's high time people Butted out and left me out of these posts. I am not sensitive butt I am sick of being the one left behind in Paul's wake! Best wishes to you all P. Butt oops!!! Must have sat on the key board!!!! Posted by: Paul on January 5, 2003 04:27 PMfrom IP:No, Whitney, it's not "nose to the grindstone and all that stuff", it's "what about a life lived in fear, and all that stuff..." (Scott to Fran, secretly, in the shadows of the back porch of Fran's house.)
Hummmm.."Dancing Hero" Paul? Not bad, certainly rings true! Love, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 5, 2003 04:28 PMfrom IP:Dear P. Butt, HAHA... LOL!!!!! Bravo. It's high time you spoke your mind. (Or is it low time you spoke your butt??) BUT, whew, talk about over-sensitive! I do remind you that it was Paul who brought you up. (Or is it let you down?) You should take the issue up with him. (While he raises the issue with you...) Seriously, though, butt. Try not to get too (black and) blue with all these kicks. I mean, the very cleverness of your response goes to show that there's more to you and Paul than that which made you famous as a body part. :) Happy expansiveness to you and yours, Caryn, here's your kick in the butt to keep you chugging though the night. Grandma Mildren, Thanks for the info on shall we dance. Sounds like Sami will have to wait for it later in life.
Tim, Two Worlds of Jenny Logan, I remember that movie now. I liked it. Kelli, Sami and I says hi.Sami says your delightful. Kicks for Texas,Tim, Evelyn Sami says hi to everyone. Suz Posted by: Susan D on January 5, 2003 05:15 PMfrom IP:You are absolutley right Caryn, there is more to me than meets the eye, so kick Paul in the butt so he might get up off of me and let the world once again gaze on my magnificence with awe and inspiration. Lets face it, if it wasnt for me he wouldnt be able to sit on his laurels!! Let the Butt stop here. P Butt ps everyone give Paul a big kick - in the shins! Posted by: Paul's Butt on January 5, 2003 05:53 PMfrom IP:Dear Paul, While we're on the subject, Cole Porter, the famous composer and lyricist once wrote: "....I get no kick from champagne, Adoringly, (at my age, oh, my!) Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 5, 2003 06:53 PMfrom IP:
let's put this behind and move on...(lol) Posted by: bluedog on January 5, 2003 09:19 PMfrom IP:Whitney: You can find the American training at American Accent training.com, I think...just do a search for "American Accent Training." They send you C.D.'s and and you work with them over the phone as often as you can afford... Have a successful and incredible day you guys. (or tomorrow) Tim Posted by: TIM HORD on January 5, 2003 11:00 PMfrom IP:Tim, I commend you on recognizing the importance of travel with your kids. They're very lucky. My parents did this for my brother and I. We don't have a lot of money, so sometimes it meant morgaging the house multiple times or not getting a new car (we're still driving our '87 Honda Civic... one of these days it's going to fall apart while driving down the road!) One of the trips we took was a sabbatical to Australia. Yep, I lived for a year in Tassie, and did grade 9 at The Friends' School in Hobart. That's where I learned to row, in fact! Ahhh, I miss Australia. And yes, I do love Vegemite now. Bring a jar with me to the dining hall sometimes. lol. I even had an Australian accent when I came back. Didn't last long, though. Sometime I wonder if that's why I like 'Strine accents so much. So sexy. The Tassie accent isn't as exaggerated as some others. One of my good friends is from Perth. That's where you're from, right Paul? He sounds exactly like you. Anyway, that's also why I was so excited when I read somewhere that Tara Morice is from Hobart. Grandma, do you know what she's up to these days? Where can we find info on her? Happy trails to you, Good morning Grandma! Working to achieve a goal does often require a "nose to the grindstone" philosophy from my experience, but that doesn't mean it's done in or out of fear: just common sense. Anything worth having is worth working for, etc. Thanks for the kick Suz. And thanks for the reminder on the water. You're very thoughtful. It's even more important when we exercise. I have a little sign that tells me to drink it. Tell Sami hello for me and give her a long hug, but give yourself a little kick. You didn't think you wouldn't get one back did you? Caryn's right Paul. You brought this whole "butt" thing up. I'm mentally kicking you in the shins (as you requested) while I write this. It's unfortunate that my encouragements and comments aren't reaching you. Maybe I've said something that offended. I thought I was helping somehow, but I guess I'm not, so I'll be quiet. I do hope you'll talk more about your search for an agent as well as your brewery project, when you have some news in the future. I will continue to give occassional "virtual butt kicks" to those who want them. They never had anything to do with Paul's awesome ass anyway: just a playful way to encourage each other to "take care of business". I'm grateful for all the support that people on this site have shown me. Your kind words have helped, really, and when I reach my current goal, I'll celebrate it with you, because that's what gives meaning to life for me: sharing. Sincerely, p.s. Butt kicks all 'round!!!!!!!!!!!! Posted by: on January 5, 2003 11:25 PMfrom IP:Hey Tim. We posted at the same time so I'm writing a second short note to tell you that I agree with your travel philosophy. I'm sure your kids will never forget these trip and they will surely shape their minds. You're a good dad! Please keep tellng me about your exercise success. It really helps to know someone else is sticking to it. Let's trade before and after pictures through email when we reach our goals. And thanks for the info on the diction program. I have a friend in Japan who wants me to come and teach English for a Summer. Though I speak proper English, I wouldn't want to transmit my country accent and the disadvantages that it could come with. I would love to read your spec script. Is there anyway you could email me a copy? I promise to keep it top secret. Posted by: Whitney on January 5, 2003 11:45 PMfrom IP:OOh gosh you guys I feel kicked!! Paul's butt needs to stop taking crap from Paul. don't let him sit around all day!! ;) Paul, you should play P.butt that song that was very popular in the US around the early 90's! cough'! lol. and no seating on the keyboard!!! that had me laughing!!!=) Susan, tell Sami she sounds very delightful as well!! hope you two have a wonderful week! Carlyn, Im jealous! you went to school in Australia! I love accents too!! =) love to all! You guys are toooooo funny, I'm laughing very hard and now I'm almost tempted to welcome "Paul's butt" to this forum, but I wouldn't want to risk all the bruises and kicks I might get as the result of it .... and yes, I did indeed exercise Friday and Saturday and will do some today. Feels really good!!!! and not having gained weight over the holidays, but done the opposite, even better :-)))))) Paul, how is working in computer sales going for you? I hope you are not finding it too dreary. Thank you Sami for your hug. I hope you are having a great day! Tim, can I tag along on your family trip? It sounds wonderful. The south of England (W. Sussex) is where I spent many of my family holidays, learned some good English in the process, used to pronounce things properly and now after 10+ years in the US, my British friends pronounced me "ruined." I kind of tend to agree with them. These family holidays to the UK have definitely had a huge impact on who I am and who I have become, a really cool gift parents can give their kids. Caryn, how's that paper coming along? I've motivated myself to working on the last dissertation chapter this weekend and am liking it and am hoping to be done with it by Jan. 20. That might be pushing it a bit, since I decided I had to do a whole lot more research, but hey, I'm going to do my best. :-) Keep working on it!. Whitney, what does "proper English" mean for you? Love to all. Hi, Caryn, In answer to your inquiry, here is some recent information on Tara Morice, who, at almost 39 years old can be considered one of Australia's finest actresses, and a classic beauty to boot, (in my opinion.) Her work since "Strictly Ballroom" can be found on this Internet site: www.imdb.com Just type in "Tara Morice". The site has all her work in film and television, but nothing about what she has done recently, since 2001. (You can also find Paul's work on the same site.) Lately, she has done the narration of an important documentary on the life of Annette Kellerman, Australia's famous Olympic swim champ, Then, Tara also narrated a series for Australia's ABC TV station called "Deadly Rivals" which I believe has already been shown. The last film she made, in 2000, was called "Hildegarde" (The Duck Down Under) that is a family oriented film. It tells the story of a young widow (Tara) and her 3 teen children, who must cope not only with the loss of the husband and father, but the theft of their pet duck, Hildegarde. "Hildegarde" was shown at a Children's Film Festival in Berlin, and I think in Melbourne, too, Paul. It has not gone into general release. Tara appeared in "Moulin Rouge", in a 5 second part that was listed on the last credits as "Prostitute"...outrageous! I spotted her right away...it was her beautiful eyes that gave her away, in spite of all the heavy makeup and costuming she had to endure! I don't know what she has done recently. I do know that her "partner" and father of her 7 year old daughter, is Craig Pearce, the screenwriter for SB, "Romeo and Juliet", and "Moulin Rouge".
Love, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 6, 2003 05:24 AMfrom IP:Hi Evelyn. I guess I should have used the term Standard English. I don't have a personalized definition. The dictionary provides a nice one:"The English that with respect to spelling, grammar, pronunciation, and vocabulary is substantially uniform though not devoid of regional differences, that is well established by usage in the formal and informal speech and writing of the educated, and that is widely recognized as acceptable wherever English is spoken and understood." Good night Grandma. Posted by: Whitney on January 6, 2003 06:28 AMfrom IP:Whitney,You sound like I have dissapointed you somehow. You have not offened me at all and I have enjoyed reading yor posts. You, like everyone, here inspire me by your efforts, commitment and comments - keep em coming - they do reach me. As far as working in a computer store goes - I am grateful to have the opportunity to earn something - however it does not cover the weekly bills so it depresses the shit out of me! I enjoy dealing with people but find it stressful at times when a client asks the inevitable question and follows up with the what are you doing here?? etc etc etc They then want ot talk film/tv stuff and forget about buying a computer!! As my wife wisely pointed out last night - this is a temporary measure, it lengthens our ability to eat. It is not final, it is not my life forever but I hate to say it, somewhere in the back of my head that little dark voice of fear whispers quietly and incessantly....... In the meantime I will keep on dog paddling!!!!!!!!!!!11 Posted by: Paul on January 6, 2003 08:16 AMfrom IP:There's no shame in being a computer salesman, especially if you set out to be the best damn computer salesman you can be. Acting skills should help you with that, and you'll be brushing up on those skills while you're at it. Here I've got a challenge for you, Paul: can you create a computer salesman character and act him so well that people don't recognize you?? Of course, being a computer salesman is not your dream, and I wish you much success with acting in the future. However, in the meantime, we wish you all the best in computer sales right now. Make those costumers walk out saying "Damn, he was the most couteous and knowledgeable salesman I've ever had!" instead of "Damn, I just met Paul Mercurio!" Posted by: Caryn on January 6, 2003 09:21 AMfrom IP:Grandma, thanks for the info!!! One paper down, two more papers and three exams to go.... Caryn Posted by: Caryn on January 6, 2003 09:22 AMfrom IP:Thank you Paul. Posted by: Whitney on January 6, 2003 09:31 AMfrom IP:I have a funny story for y'all (not related to any posts here... I just read it today): A member of Parliament once interrupted another member by calling him a "shining wit" ...and then apologized for making a spoonerism! If you don't know what a spoonerism is, see here: http://www.m-w.com/cgi-bin/dictionary?book=Dictionary&va=spoonerism Posted by: Caryn on January 6, 2003 10:05 AMfrom IP:Paul, I thank what you are doing is very honorable. You are making money for your family, something that everyone must do at some point. ;) keep on dog paddling, it'll pay off! ;) And for the people who ask about your movie/TV career you could say "yes I am in the movie/TV business now would you like to buy a computer that alot of the latest "movie/Film" people have?" lol I know i'd buy a computer from you! and to Carlyn's great comments about walking out of the store having met you they will remember afterwards how great a person and devoted you are, just from meeting with you Im sure, and thats worth alot to have! Good Luck!!! Posted by: Kelli on January 6, 2003 10:23 AMfrom IP:no doubt in my mind - it's temporary, just like your wife said.... we've all dog paddled in some shape or form... yours is just more public.... you know your craft and with a new agent and the release of SB again...the movie industry will come looking for you all over again.... cheering you on....bluedog Posted by: bluedog on January 6, 2003 12:55 PMfrom IP:Kelli, I didn't point this out earlier because I was hoping you'd notice it yourself, but you haven't. My name is Caryn, not Carlyn. Minor detail. Thanks, Good morning Grandma. I saw the movie The Hot Chick last night. It was funny in a National Lampoon sort of way. We really did laugh ourselves silly. Bear in mind, I enjoyed Zoolander too. Do more than show them the features Paul. According to the Screenwriter's Bible, you want to explain the benefits. That's what sells the object. How will the custumer benefit from making the purchase. It would be cool if you could use an SB DVD to sell laptops with players. Then you could explain to folks how they would benefit by getting to watch you on their laptops!!! Have a good day everybody. Posted by: Whitney on January 6, 2003 09:41 PMfrom IP:Good idea about the DVD, Whit! I mean, how could anyone resist the benefit of getting to watch SB anytime, anywhere? ;) I myself asked for a laptop computer for Christmas so that I could watch DVD's (and write papers!!). And I'll bet y'all can guess which DVD I've been watching on it! If use the SB DVD, Paul, I think you should show the part where Scott and Fran do the rhumba behind the curtain (chapter 7 on the DVD). That's my favourite part. It's so intense the way you stare into each other's eyes the entire time. Posted by: Caryn on January 6, 2003 09:59 PMfrom IP:Paul, Whitney had a maaaaaaaaaavelous idea to show "Strictly Ballroom" DVD version, on any laptop that you are selling! I own the DVD version, and I love to play it on my computer, for one is really upclose and personal, and I get the urge to give you and Tara hugs and kisses...however, Tara's pimples are usually so prominent (in the beginning) one must be careful! If you were selling me a laptop using "Strictly Ballroom" in your demonstrations, I would buy a dozen!!! (Yeah, yeah, in your dreams again, Grannie...) Great idea, Whitney! Love, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 6, 2003 10:19 PMfrom IP:Paul, anything I/we can do to make dog paddling easier or less stressful or less frustrating for you? Here's a hug of support for you and thanks for sharing how this experience in your life is going, sorry it is so hard on you and I hope that in hindsight you will understand the Why part of it. Whitney, you sure love your dictionaries, dont' you? so do I by the way and I have lots of them. Congrats Caryn on one paper down and good luck with the rest of them. Grandma Mildred, I always meant to ask you, what subject(s) did you teach when you were a teacher? Have a great day everyone!!! Posted by: Evelyn on January 6, 2003 10:53 PMfrom IP:PAUL: OK...you gotta read this. Everything is relative so just try to relate it to your life in some way. I've already mentioned my past. I was a "professional...executive type...however in my own history I hated what I was doing...but I had arrived I thought because at 34 I was making over $100k a year..had my BMW but worked for the BIGGEST Bitch that ever existed on earth. Almost 10 years later I'm doing hair making less than half that. My kids are on a free lunch at school. I'm deciding to start over.. So, PLEASE don't let this lull get you down dude. We all want to see you in film again. Have you got your new agent? Do you have one here in the states as well? Maybe you do need to do a film over here. Everytime they do films these days it seems they pull from overseas. Why not you? Do not give up. Keep working. Keep your head up. Kiss your wife and kids goodbye every morning knowing you're supporting them and doing the right thing. And if there is anything we can do to help....ASK. Would you like us to write letters to your agent? Anything man...just ask. We're here for you. You've done something special for us...we'll do something special for you. Take care... Tim Posted by: Tim Hord on January 7, 2003 12:19 AMfrom IP:Dear Evelyn, I taught elementary school, mostly the 4th, 5th and 6th grades, which I loved! I taught all subjects, my favorites being Social Studies and Language Arts. I was able to incorporate the theatre arts and film into my teaching plans, and that culminated into an assembly program each year, which the children and their parents enjoyed! I taught for 21 1/2 years, and they were memorable and rewarding years. Teaching is still an honorable profession, but today times are different, and the demands on teachers are certainly different. Even today, while directing my variety show, sometimes I have to stop a rehearsal and remind the cast to PLEASE be quiet when an act is on. The cast just loves to gab! I remind these lovely people, Love, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 7, 2003 12:22 AMfrom IP:Wow, life really sucks for me at the moment. Michela set me up on a date with her older brother (with a lot of prodding from her mother, too!) We had a great time, and I really like him. I told my roommate back at school about him. She IM'ed him and asked him - without my knowledge - how he felt about me. He must've told Michela this, and she must've assumed I put my roommate up to it. I guess her protective instincts for her brother kicked into overdrive, because she told me that I'm "childish, insecure, immature, and manipulative" for "playing coy little games" with her brother. Wow. Ouch. That really hurt. I was shocked. I think it's all just one big mix-up, but she won't listen. I tried to keep my friendship with her separate from how I feel about her brother. I should have known it would never work. Arggg, why didn't I see that something like this would happen?! She ended up hating his last girlfriend with a passion, despite the fact that she was the one who introduced them. I should have never agreed to go on date with him. Add to that the fact that I have barely slept in two days, and I still have two papers to finish plus three exams to take in the next two weeks, and I think you'll agree with me that life really sucks right now, huh? Michela, if you're reading this, I still love you, but I'm really hurt and upset that you would accuse me of trying to mess with your brother and his emotions. I wish you would give me a little more credit than that. Posted by: Caryn on January 7, 2003 01:51 AMfrom IP:Caryn, (Not Carlyn) Paul, I hope you had a great day at work!!! today was the my first day back to school since christmas break, I had to go to my new classes for the semester! I got Advanced art even though im not an artist at all! Is anyone here good at art?? I need help!! my other classes seem fine, US History, I think I can take, but Algebra!! ugh!! I don't know!! ;) wish me luck!! Take care everyone!! LOVE TO ALL XXOO thanx to whitney, susan d, evelyn. i'm home safe and sound. whitney -- mom has hepatitis c. most of the posters know already, but i think you might have come on board shortly after i mentioned it. she's kicking hep's butt. even paul's would be proud. i'm happy to be home. the first morning i woke up in my bed i seriously thought about never leaving it. it felt soooo fricking good. now it's time to get my rear in gear. resolutions won't fulfill themselves. darn it. take care Posted by: texas on January 7, 2003 06:05 AMfrom IP:Happy New Year everyone! Food for thought. Posted by: ME on January 7, 2003 06:32 AMfrom IP:Dear Kelli, "You'll be swell, Now's your inning, Okay, so I used these words before, Good luck, darling, in whatever you do! Love, Grandma Mildred Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 7, 2003 06:37 AMfrom IP:PS. About the bartending thing, I did it for years, had a good time doing it and made a decent living. (I just had looks, not looks and fame going for me!) Posted by: ME on January 7, 2003 06:49 AMfrom IP:I'm glad you're home safe texas. I'm sorry to hear about your mom! It sounds like she has it under control and having you in her life has to help immeasurably. OK Evelyn, you busted me. The dictionary is one of my favorite books. In fact I'm in a panic because I think I just spelled "immeasurably" wrong and I can't find my dictionary. Caryn! I can't believe your best bud would doubt your word! I know I don't know you well, but that just doesn't sound like something you'd do. I hope you two can patch things up. Tim, you give good advice. I'm sure Paul will benefit. I also think he needs an agent over here. Something has to happen soon. Paul, don't misinterpret this, but is it possible for you to get into an acting class? It's not that I think you can't act (I hope that goes without saying), but I keep reading about established, successful actors who continue to take classes occassionaly. It keeps them sharp and they make more connections with up and comers. Who knows who you might meet and how that encounter could affect your situation. Well, I've got lots of things to do. My very best to everyone! Good night Grandma. Posted by: Whitney on January 7, 2003 08:00 AMfrom IP:Whitney, you love the dictionary, too?! Yay! I'm known among my friends for being a Grammar Nazi. You were correct: immeasurably Here's an online dictionary for those days you can't find your book: Caryn Posted by: Caryn on January 7, 2003 08:28 AMfrom IP:Grandma, =) I smiled so much when I read your poem!! thank you!!! I'm going to save it!! Im sure my friends at school, who are stressed over school work would love to here it too!!! thank you again and Hope all is well with the variety show, how is the cast behaving?! ;)!!! XXOO'S!! Texas, Its wonderful that you had a good trip and your back safe. Isn't it just wonderful to sleep in your own bed after having to sleep on some hard hotel room bed!! ;) Hope your mom is doing better!! Whitney, I live with a dictionary too, there is even one by my computer. I have no idea why I think its like the biggest thrill to look up words!! lol Propinquity is a good word, and you probally did spell Immeasurably right Hope everyone is well, no flu I hope, its going around here! :( Love to all I was just reading about the cast members from Steven Speilberg's film A.I. The woman who played the mother, I think her name was Francis Connell, has done some work with the Melbourne Theater Company. Just thought I'd mention it since it's in your neck of the woods Paul. No response necessary. Posted by: Whitney on January 7, 2003 12:13 PMfrom IP:Hey Kelli. I didn't see your post. I'm glad you use your dictionary. The English language is so subtle. Speaking of subtleties, I have a pet peeve about the words "jealousy" and "envy". While the dictionary makes an important distinction in their definitions, it still says they can be used synonymously. The difference between jealousy and envy is that you can only be jealous if someone has something that used to be yours. Envy applies when you want something that belongs to someone else, but never belonged to you. I guess that people prefer the word jealousy because of the negativity associated with envy. After all, one of the ten commandments tells us it's a no no to covet and isn't that another word for envy? Well, I'm glad I got that off my chest. And by the way, I don't always check my spelling when I post. After all this isn't a thesis paper right? Posted by: Whitney on January 7, 2003 12:29 PMfrom IP:Thankyou all for the good advice. Rest assured I am doing everything I can to get things happening and create other and better opportunities for myself. As far as working in a bar and getting tips - Aussies dont tip - and the money is ho hum but worse is the amount of people I would be explaining why I am working in a bar instead of making movies. The computer shop has less traffic, which I would prefer. The earning potential is greater also. The idea of acting classes is one I have chased since coming to Melbourne. All the classes I have found here are for working with the camera or auditioning techniques - basically for new actors learning those ropes. I am looking for workshops aimed at professional actors wanting to sharpen, flex and maintain there skills. I have done the excellent RAP course twice - for any Aussie actors reading this give the Actors Centre a call and see when they are doing it again, it is fantastic!! I am contemplating starting a workshop group for like minded actors. As for agents - I have a fantastic Agent in Los Angeles whom is constantly asking me to come over. The problem being I need to earn some money so I can pay for all the costs of such a trip as well as have enough money for my wife and kids to survive on whilst away etc It's a catch 22 really. I need a job so I can earn some bucks so I can come over to L.A and get a job so I can come back to aussie and get a job....... Selling computers by showing SB - NOT ON MY LIFE!!!! ARE YOU KIDDING!!!! Great idea but not one I find appealing. I dont actually want to draw attention to myself - it is humiiating and depressing being that actor from the movie whom every one loved/ loves fallen down to selling new and used notebook computer. Rather be that really helpful lovely salesman that you bought the computer from and would go back to again. Got to go, time to shut down the shop. Posted by: Paul on January 7, 2003 01:46 PMfrom IP:ps, I say fallen as in: fallen down, fallen on hard times, fallen from the lofty heights I once soared high amongst. It is a transition and when I stand back from it and look at the means to an end I can see that. When I stand within it I see a rather desolate bombed out kind of land scape - when I am in a negative mood. And in a positive mood I see a garden ready to be sown. There's good old Newtons law. Tim, this lul will get me down, that is the nature of it but I will be bounce back. Never say never, never say die, never give up and never surrender. In fact I may take back the surrender bit. Often in acting you have to surrender yourself over to the character to allow it to be who you are. I guess life is the same - one must surrender to it so as to allow it to be who you are. If we surrender to life we there fore stop fighting against it and maybe the outcome is to embrace it more fully, openly and unconditionally. Worth thinking about. Posted by: Paul on January 7, 2003 06:46 PMfrom IP:Hey, Paul...I have come back to your site and been reading the posted comments. There is so much positive energy from everyone. That should help guide and sustain you. Looks like you are getting your thoughts together. Each small step forward gets you closer to your goal. I have written to Baz Luhrmann in care of La Boheme in New York and asked him to contact you. So be ready when he does! All the best, Linda Posted by: Linda Thomas on January 7, 2003 08:55 PMfrom IP:Good moring Grandma! After I suggested the SB demo I began to think the same thing Paul. It would only lead to more people questioning you and you get enoughof that from us! Getting your own group together sounds like a good idea. It would cost less and I'll bet there are plenty of people that would love to work with you. I guess putting a notice up somewhere or runnng a classified ad could get it started. I'd still check out the Melbourne Theater Co. if you haven't. Who knows who you'll meet? I know how hard it is to keep the right attitude in the face of reversals and your words to Tim indicate you have a handle on things. I'm going to think about what you said. Have a kick ass day everybody! Posted by: Whitney on January 7, 2003 09:01 PMfrom IP:paul, hey paul i am a big fan of yours and i have a question to ask what kind of music do you like and have you heard of denzel washington Posted by: michele on January 7, 2003 11:43 PMfrom IP:Paul, I'm thinking (of disagreeing?) here on your last ponderance: (and this is TOTALLY the "fault" of my bladder, which after two kids makes me get up WAY too early in the am to do anything else but read, and I am currently reading "The Four Agreements", that Toltec Wisdom book I've spoken of before) You say to fight against Life. But you should be (the Toltec say--I'd NEVER presume to tell anyone what they should or should not do or believe) DISALLOWING the things which grey up the Life so that your vision of Life is more clear, yes? The mind is a fog which gets in the way of the Truth, the real vision and experience of Life. However, it is behind the fog, in the emotions wherein lies what the Toltec call "the Dream" that we have come to believe is the moral and social obligations and rules of our world. We didn't choose this Dream, it was born into us behaviorally by our parents/society. That gut feeling in your solar plexus is your True self noticing a dissillusion to the Dream, something that doesn't quite sit well with the True you. For me, it's when I feel guilt about working a job away from home, when I think I should be home caring for my babies. Why do I feel guilty for it? Why not accept that this is what I've chosen to do, and do it, guilt-free, until the time comes when I don't have to do it anymore? It would be so much EASIER if I could sail through my days, guilt free. But I create that guilt by listening, and AGREEING, to the one half of society's ideas that Mom's belong at home, that the lap is the center of my kid's universe and I remove that center for 10hrs/day, four days a week. It is when I choose to NOT believe that "agreement", that Mom's "should" be at home, that I become free, and can detach that pain from my daily rituals. Some call it a cop-out, I suspect. But it makes a LOT of sense to me. Now, once again, as in the Adam and Eve/Serpent lied post, I've probably abbreviated the crap out of the intent of the Toltec philosophy, and I personally, don;t like the "Dream" word they use for what I've called "my personal reality" for so long, but c'est la vie. Do you see the value in this? Is it possible to live this way? Everquestioning, Paul, I hope you know (and if you don't I'm telling you now) my question about how things are going at the computer shop was in no way meant to add to or cause you any humiliation. After I posted the question, it occurred to me that this could be a touchy/touchier subject for you. If I caused you any pain, humiliation or something else along these lines, I am REALLY sorry, though I hope you got the real intentions behind having asked this question. I also didn't think you'd go for the SB demo computer sales pitch. Somehow that doesn't strike me at all like you or something you'd do. "If we surrender to life we there fore stop fighting against it and maybe the outcome is to embrace it more fully, openly and unconditionally. Worth thinking about." I hope that the beautiful garden image is dominating your mind today, if not I might just have to draw it for you .... Posted by: Evelyn on January 8, 2003 12:54 AMfrom IP:Hi Dhiana, just saw your post and you too have a lot of interesting things to say (as usual ... :-)) and I will add that to my thinking later on. How are you? Was wondering where you've been. Hope all is well. Thanks Grandma for answering my question about your teaching. You probably know from earlier posts that this is the profession I chose, and feel very passionate(ly) about and want to get back into, even though currently I'm at a loss as to what institution I will be teaching in/ want to teach in, and also the very big question WHERE? Will I stay in the US? Do I want to stay in the US? Do I want to move back to Europe and if so where (Germany, the UK, Scandinavia etc.) or somewhere completely different? On the other hand, I (or the greater powers out there) might just have opened a lot of new roads for myself, [that's the optimist in me speaking, loving the optimist and definitely nurturing it]. Kelli, just be the best artist you can be in your Advanced art class. Telling yourself you can't do it, more or less automatically blocks your creative juices, telling yourself that you can and are willing to try, gives you access to your creativity. Perhaps you will never be the greatest artist the world has seen, so what? Is that the point? Caryn, hang in there and give Michela the space she needs right now. I know it sucks big time, been there, done that. As long as you feel you were true to yourself and did the right thing (cynical me throws in "whatever that is" [ignore cynical me!!!]), let it go and see what happens. Perhaps write the damn papers and get the exams over with in the meantime (clearly a pep talk I am going to give myself in just a second!!!!) Whitney, welcome to my now officially founded club of dictionary lovers :-) Have a great day everyone! Posted by: Evelyn on January 8, 2003 01:12 AMfrom IP:(Awe, shucks, Evelyn, thanks!) Actually, I was wondering if the newer-to-the-boards would wonder "Who the hell IS this pompous ass with all her philosophical bullshit and Earth-toned realism crap???" But then, adopting my "new" philosophy of the Toltecs, I don't really care! aha! (Sarah, UP, help me out here with the "Screw the World, I'm right!" posters...;-) Really, though, I was away from work, a LOT the past month, due to holiday and no work to be done (the Big X company for whom I contract is in a red block zone then, so no work gets done) and so spent a lot of time with my boys. And now, my husband is out of town for three weeks, so I'm playing SIngle Parent in three feet of frigging snow. Honestly, I mean I KNOW husbands are good for other things, but snow-shoveling is RIGHT up there on the list these days! ;-) Criminily... I'll be here all week, popping in, because I'd rather talk to real people like you guys than some of the fakes hereabouts. Love (Paul, loved the post from your posterior...very nice! ;-) Hi, everybody! Gee are your guys getting any of this thick wet fog? Living on this bay inlet gives us weird weather. Just the past two day have been hot enough to wear shorts and now it's back to the cold fog. I've had to pull out those toesy socks. I shouldn't complain. We were blessed with to lovely days. I'm now just trying to stay warm and nurse this cold. I'll use no butt kicks today.Send them tomorrow when I'll need them. Grandma Mildred, Thanks once again for thinking of our family. I will put Hildegarde on my movie que. Evelyn, a great day to you! Hello, ME Tim, I wish I could squeeze in to your suit case. I think it's great that your family is going to see Europe. I have family there and use to live there. My brother's family just came back from visting family. It was wet, but they still enjoyed themselves. He was begging me to go but the funds were not there for me this year. Best things to pack are weather proof shoes that are comfortable, a parka, and an umbrella. Caryn, Sorry to hear about the fall out with your friend. I hope you girls patch it up. True friends will stick it out. You sound torn apart inside. Do you still have feelings for her brother? Or is he totally out of the picture now? Is it possible that she might feel her brother has your attention now and maybe feels left out? I don't know the whole situation but maybe each of you need time to sort it out. Time heals. I have alot of longtime girlfriends and it's natural to not always see eye to eye or to have mis-understandings. But we have come to a agreement that we really do love each other and sometimes we have to set aside our pride and say: "Hey I was wrong" (I'm not saying you were in the wrong) and I really do care about you. Maybe you can send her a card? Like I miss you, can we work this out. What ever you do, I hope this passes quickly and you can concentrate on your papers and exams. Get some sleep! Take care. Whit, You have such clever ideas. Your a great brainstormer. How's that dog? I admire people that have a respect for all life. Isn't it amazing what unconditional love can do for the soul! It can heal so many wounds. Texas, Glad to hear your mother on the up in up. Sounds like you need some well deserved rest. Kelli, I love art. Wether your good at it doesn't matter. What does matter is wether it makes YOU happy doing it. Hope you coast through Algebra and you get a great teacher that makes it fun. Hang in there! Paul, alias, p-butt, dancing hero. May you sow many gardens. Whit, Texas, Evelyn,Tim KICK...... Suz Posted by: Susan D on January 8, 2003 02:44 AMfrom IP:Paul, your seeing the light at the end of the tunnel that's good for you! It's great that you can step out of the tough times and do that. I have been in some tough times that I look back on and wonder how in the hell did I make it though that! There were days I felt so deep in the hole I wasn't sure I could climb out. But I did!I can say I have learned alot and feel so much stronger. Let me share this with you.. Suz Posted by: Susan D on January 8, 2003 03:33 AMfrom IP:suz: thanx 4 the kick, yet again, but, thanx more for sharing about your husband and kids. full is better than empty, whether it be family obligations or a pint of beer. i had a friend in college who was deaf, and learned so much from her and her boyfriend -- how to use the phone, how they "hear" the doorbell, how they feel music, even went to see a completely deaf-produced and acted play (that was quite an experience). it's amazing how much you can learn about yourself when you learn about others. Posted by: texas on January 8, 2003 04:20 AMfrom IP:Paul, You'll be great at whatever you do!! im sure that your a great salesmen!! do what you hafta do!! =) Im sure you make all your custumers smile and have a better day! Evelyn and Susan, Thanx! I exactly did some art today in class, with markers and I made bubble letters because my teacher said we could draw/paint/color anything, I must say it was colorful!! lol!! I know I'll find what im most creative at, eveyone is stronger in some areas or another. thanks so much!! Whitney, I have wondered some about Evny and Jealousy, and your right Evny is something you can't have and Jealousy is something that you may or may not have, there are two very different words. Great thinkin!! lol ;) Grandma, Have a wonderful week! Love lots!! Hey everyone, Sorry I haven't posted in awhile, I do tend to read the message board several times daily but often feel at a loss for words. Many posts are deep and intellectual, which I do quite enjoy, but others are a bit dark. Anyway, here's a happy post 'cause I'm in a great mood. Paul, I just bought Exit to Eden and Joseph from Suncoast Video in the US and just to let you know, both videos were not on their side on the shelves but rather facing front, which is great exposure. I can't wait to watch Exit to Eden again and to watch Joseph for the first time. Anyway, I was just thinking the other day about the six degrees of separation theory and I was trying to link Paul, my favorite actor, to Josh Groban, my favorite singer and I managed to do it pretty quickly :) Paul Mercurio was in the movie Exit to Eden with Rosie O'Donell and Rosie O'Donell invited Josh Groban to be a guest/singer on her show, the Rosie O'Donell show. :) Just thought it was kind of neat that there was only 2 degrees between Paul & Josh. Hope everyone is doing well and I enjoy reading all your posts! - Tiffany Posted by: Tiffany on January 8, 2003 07:27 AMfrom IP:Hello everyone! Tim wrote me regarding pictures, and I gave him erroneous information. Now I feel like such a goob! There's a very, very easy way for you all to post your pictures. At the same time I built this site, I also built a Yahoo! group so all the fans could talk. Now it's little used because everyone comes over here (as it should be!). But...there is a section of the site where you can post pictures! So here's the scoop: If you aren't already a member, go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PaulMercurio/ and join up. Once that's done, you can post to the Photos section. I only ask that you keep your photos SMALL. Under 20K, please. Mildred, I know you have some big collages. They are beautiful, and I am working on getting them up in the fan section of the site, so hang in there. I can't wait to see you all! I'll go post a picture of me right now! Posted by: Cat on January 8, 2003 11:53 AMfrom IP:Cat: Paul: And re: our trip to Europe. It is planned but it won't be this year. Unless I hit a windfall of somekind. (right there with you on that one Paul))I have to pay for 6 people to fly all over..but it'll be one hell of a trip. An incorrect conversion in money...some accountant huh? My comment should have read $100 (~$181 aus dollars And one more thing I've gotta agree with Suz..and some of the others, I hope you're seeing more of the garden that needs sowing than a bleak landscape. I have to keep those positive types of pictures in my head all the time. One of these days this existance I'm currently in will change if I keep pushing and trying hard. "I'm lucky that my work helps me burn it off but I suppose I'll have to adjust my beer intake if I start doing less exercise. I don't want to end up with a pot belly." (Courier-Mail, Dec. '92) You said it buddy...amazing what we think when we're let's see you must have been 29? LOL Ya gotta love it. tim Posted by: Tim hord on January 8, 2003 01:05 PMfrom IP:Comments from my last post on - as read - ie spontaneous reactions... Dhiana, surrender to the dream! I never said to surrender the battle, I said merely to surrender to life - sometimes that means surrender (yourself) to the battle. When one surrenders to the battle one fights with truth, conviction and even (their version of) god on side!! To surrender is to allow that which you surrender to, to wholely(phaark wheres my dictionary!!!) enhabit - be it love hate positive or negative. Your personal reality is only one version of what it could be. Examining the others may make a difference to the fog. Envy is something you dont have jealousy is something you want but cant keep. Tim I doubt you could post a picture any of us would find repulsive - disgusting sure, weird uhha, rude you betcha - repulsive nuh! Cat, great to hear from you, I have been wondering where you have been as your webblog has been kinda quiet. Bill still here??? Hope you had a great Xmas and New Year!! Tim, how dare you quote me back when I was 29!! Where did you get it...LOLOLOLOLOLOL God things DO come back to haunt you!!! Yes Yes Yes I said it and I am glad to say I have drunk much less this year than I did last year:) I thought I could be safe blogging, get away with winging and feeling sorry for myself and damn you guys just keep showing me I am human - thank the powers that be... Tim, I want to know where you got that from man!! And as for your $$ conversion, if you think I am going to pay you US$ for a hair do forget it - It's Ausssie bucks with a diet coke thrown in as a tip!!! Okay? LOLOLOLOLOLOLOLOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Posted by: Paul on January 8, 2003 07:14 PMfrom IP:Oh.... Evelyn, Suasan D, Tiffany, Me, Kelli, Texas - say hi to your Mum for me!!, Michele and Linda - thanks for your post, your thoughts, your hugs and your kicks! Posted by: Paul on January 8, 2003 07:18 PMfrom IP:Oh.... Evelyn, Suasan D, Tiffany, Me, Kelli, Texas - say hi to your Mum for me!!, Michele and Linda - thanks for your post, your thoughts, your hugs and your kicks! Grandma too! Posted by: Paul on January 8, 2003 07:18 PMfrom IP:Paul, "I am glad to say I have drunk much less this year than I did last year." Well done. Especially considering that so far, this year is 357 days shorter than last year. I'd really be worried about you if you have drunk more this year than you did last year... Just pulling your leg. Keep up the good work. :) BTW, that article Tim quoted came from your very own website! (or Cat's, more precisely): http://www.paulmercurio.net/articles/2dec92.shtml Vegemite beer... hmmm, that sounds interesting! How do you make that? Does it actually taste like Vegemite?? cpd Posted by: Caryn on January 8, 2003 08:32 PMfrom IP:Dear Paul, I wish you had been in our multimedia auditorium last night when I was presenting my monthly video "concert." It is called the "Sights and Sounds of Music", and it is my 8th year...well, actually you were there, up on on a 9ft. screen! The security guards had to come and chase people away because of fire laws, and the fact that there were no seats left and people were leaning on the walls and sitting in the aisles! The program is a new one every month. I compile 3 Anyway, one of the scenes was from the old "Moulin Rouge" (1952) that won Oscars galore. Then, I had Bazzie's "Moulin Rouge" briefly, with all the turmoil, noise and and 5 Excedrin scenes...Then, immediately, I had the scene where you were looking into the grocery window at Fran's house, searching for her, after she ran home in tears. The poignant scene where you encourage her to "dance our steps" were so beautifully done, you could hear a pin drop in the audience! Then, I went into the whole paso doble bit with "Grandma" (not me, unfortunately) beating on your chest, and ran the paso doble dance sequences until the train scene..nobody moved, no one even went to the john!
If any of you lovely young people wish to attend this auspicious event here in Florida, raise your hand......oh, m'gosh, the response...on second thought, don't call me, I'll call you!!!
Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 8, 2003 08:53 PMfrom IP:Dear Paul, I wish you had been in our multimedia auditorium last night when I was presenting my monthly video "concert." It is called the "Sights and Sounds of Music", and it is my 8th year...well, actually you were there, up on on a 9ft. screen! The security guards had to come and chase people away because of fire laws, and the fact that there were no seats left and people were leaning on the walls and sitting in the aisles! The program is a new one every month. I compile 3 Anyway, one of the scenes was from the old "Moulin Rouge" (1952) that won Oscars galore. Then, I had Bazzie's "Moulin Rouge" briefly, with all the turmoil, noise and and 5 Excedrin scenes...Then, immediately, I had the scene where you were looking into the grocery window at Fran's house, searching for her, after she ran home in tears. The poignant scene where you encourage her to "dance our steps" were so beautifully done, you could hear a pin drop in the audience! Then, I went into the whole paso doble bit with "Grandma" (not me, unfortunately) beating on your chest, and ran the paso doble dance sequences until the train scene..nobody moved, no one even went to the john!
If any of you lovely young people wish to attend this auspicious event here in Florida, raise your hand......oh, m'gosh, the response...on second thought, don't call me, I'll call you!!!
Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 8, 2003 08:54 PMfrom IP:..there, it happened again...could it be that at my age, I am entitled to double messages?? Love, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 8, 2003 09:03 PMfrom IP:Yes, Bill is still here, and we're all blissful. Has my blog been THAT quiet? Well, probably...I didn't have a home connection for nearly a month! I was jonesin', I tells ya. Now I'm back and ready to get to work on some of those projects I put off over the holidays. You know, like catching up on all the posts here. ;) Posted by: Cat on January 8, 2003 09:13 PMfrom IP:paul, thanx for saying hi to my mum. she, and especially i, appreciate it. tim, you sneaky devil. way to go with the quote-tracking. i'm so glad no one actually committed to paper anything i said last year...at 29. cheers all. Posted by: texas on January 8, 2003 09:49 PMfrom IP:Good morning Grandma! I didn't get to post last night, but I took the time to read and, as usual, I felt encouraged by the messages. I was able to post so frequently before because I was on a break from teaching. Now with my work back on and my exercise and eating increased (getting in shape is time consuming!), I'm having trouble keeping up with all the wonderful posts to this site. In fact, this has to be short because I'm still preparing for my art class of 8th graders (temporary gig, but fun). I'll post again later today, God willing. I wish everyone a wonderful and fulfilling day! Posted by: Whitney on January 8, 2003 10:29 PMfrom IP:Paul - After browsing through and re-reading many of the old articles on this website in which you talk about your daughters, I was just wondering what activities your little girls - or perhaps little women now ;) - do for fun these days. Do they dance, too? Or have they found something else? Would you be worried if your daughter got interested in motorcyles? What about beer?? I sometimes wonder if I would encourage my kids to row. I certaintly wouldn't push them, but it would be really great if I could share my passion with my kids! It would be difficult if they were into music or something because I just don't know that much about it. It's interesting because in my family, it went the other way around... my brother and I started rowing, and then my parents got into it. My dad joined the rowing club and eventually took a course to become a judge-referee for our regattas! But my dad did teach my bro and I sailing and skiing, which we still do. Also, stop us if this quoting thing is bothering you, but I found another quote that struck me: "I feel as if I'm standing in a doorway at the moment, looking out to a future with incredible potential and possibilities." (Sunday Herald Sun 1992) I just wanted to say that you will always be looking out to a future with incredible potential and possibilities. You may be looking out of a different doorway, but that future is still out there for the taking. Carpe diem and all that stuff... Whit - Good luck with the class preparation. It's so weird for me to think back on my teachers from 8th grade because at that age you just assume your teachers have no life outside of school! I have some good news: Night, Paul As far as the haircut: Tim Posted by: Tim Hord on January 9, 2003 03:27 AMfrom IP:I didn't realize you were pulling comments from the Yahoo Group--I figured you were all going into the Articles section of the site. If you aren't--you're missing out on a goldmine! Er, sorry Paul. ;) Posted by: Cat on January 9, 2003 03:43 AMfrom IP:Paul, My Mum says hi back!! lol and that your a great dancer( I made her watch SB with me one night and she loved it!) have a good week!! Grandma, lol two messages are just as good, It happened to me one time in one of my other posts! stupid computer! Tell all the "senoirs" in your village I said Hello and that they should all go see your follies show!! ;) Cat, Thanx I know I'll try and join that group at yahoo soon looking forward to it, hope all is well! Love Dear Kelli, Thanks for reassuring me about the extra posts that happen once in awhile! I checked the Recreation office today, and I was told that tickets are going fast for the show in March...both nights are almost sold out. The cast and I are thrilled! Love, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 9, 2003 05:06 AMfrom IP:Hey everyone, Said hello to my mum but have no idea why? Is it a special holiday over in Australia, like Mother's Day or something? :) Someone, please fill me in. :) - Tiffany Posted by: Tiffany on January 9, 2003 05:52 AMfrom IP:Just a quick question...Cat...When you say..Has my blog been that quiet? What exactly are you saying. I've noticed Paul using blogging...it apears to be "talking" "chatting" "scooping"...I looked up the Aussie dictionary on line and did get one I had figured out...in bootmen they tell this kid he's never had a root...I was right in my assumption...So..Blog???? Tiffany, I'm lost on the mum thing too..Does this mean I should call Kansas and talk to the inlaws...LOL.(actually they are the best) Thanks for the thought anyway Paul. Caryn, glad to hear you and your friend sorted things out. Grandma Mildred, Went looking for Hildegarde on net flix..couldn't find it. Any other recomendations? Whitney, Have fun preparing your art projects. Been missing your posts. Here's your KICK. Texas, Hey thanks for the laugh, your right full is definitely better when it comes to pint of beer. I'm glad you have been able to experience the deaf world. It really does give you new eyes.
Paul hmmm... lets see ... a real BIG KICK, KICK to the shins (blame P-butt), Here's a HUG if they hurt. You let me know if one kick is better than two..:) Sow ...Sow..Sow..your gardens. I'm beginning to wonder if I should see your Eden movie that everyone talks about so I'll know what I'm kicking or miss kicking by kick your shins.LOL SUZ Posted by: Susan D on January 9, 2003 11:06 AMfrom IP:ahhh. I'm having to type this again. My post was lost. Posted by: Susan D on January 9, 2003 11:10 AMfrom IP:Cat, thanks for the info on the web site. Suz Posted by: Susan D on January 9, 2003 11:15 AMfrom IP:Tim asks: blog?? Blog is short for "weblog", and developed several years ago when people started keeping track of interesting things they saw on the web. The loose definition of blog is: A frequently-updated personal website, with datestamps, organized with the most recent entry on the top. Not just for links anymore, blogs can now be on just about any subject under the sun. Journal-style blogs are especially popular. Paul's Corner is a blog, as is frykitty.com (my site). If you'd like to explore, go to my site and scroll down to the "short list" on the right. Those are all blogs. Posted by: Cat on January 9, 2003 11:51 AMfrom IP:I think I'm almost caught up on this thread. Lots of interesting posts. Thanks for setting up the yahoo group thing Cat. I'll go check it out and post a picture. Grandma, Cat's right. Your collages are great. I noticed the wedding pix you sent the other day were very high resolution and 300 dpi is great for the original. However, if you want to post any to the Yahoo site, you can reduce the resolutin to 72 since that's all your screen can reproduce anyway. Just remember to save a copy. Your compilation video show sounds awesome. One of my friends has just started doing that sort of thing with his computer. He uses Imovie (unsure of spelling). It's a Mac thing. Of course, in order to project a digital image you'd have to get a projector like a Leonardo and they aren't cheap. Tim, I know what you mean about not wanting to buy "fat" clothes. I feel a little sad about the fact that I won't buy clothing for myself at this size, but it would be a waste of money; I'm going to be smaller soon. And you are too. On the envy / jealousy thing: I try to admire things or qualities that another person has rather than envy them. As for jealousy, it's an emotion that I've experienced and I must confess, it's pushed me to the brink of insanity at times. Some people just want to mess with your head constantly. Being single means no one to rattle my cage. Caryn, my 8th graders were misbehaving today, but it's just one hour, so I can handle it. I never had art in Jr High so I came to this with no expectations. I was pretty timid in school at that age, but then I was an extreem introvert. I like these people , but there's no way I'd want to teach Jr High for a living. Putting this class together has been fun. I'm using Microsoft's PowerPoint to construct presentations of images from the same book I use in my college level course. I make the lecture out of a summary of the text and toss in stories I've heard over the years. It gets pretty juicy with all the freaky things that artists do and have done to them. Teaching is sort of like being a storyteller in this instance. Good thing I overcame that introversion. Good job on the school work. And I'm glad you and your friend were able to sort things out. Communication is so tricky! Egos are the problem they say. Everyone has one and they get in the way of relationships. I try to minimize mine, but I'm obviously not doing well if judged by the length of this post. I was glad to read your post Dhiana. I've missed your "philosophical bullshit"! Suz, it sounds like your life has had some dramatic twists and turns. I've read that drama builds character and that's pretty darn invaluable. I admire you for having the adaptability to handle the situation. You're my new hero. And that was a very interesting quote you dug up texas. It made me chuckle. In this case foresight was 20/20! Oh and Evelyn, thanks for admitting me to your dictionary club. I'm one of those people that corrects the words before the spellchecker provides options just because I want to get it right. I'm afraid my brain will rot if I let the machine do it all the time! Kelli, I missed the post where you talked about studying art. Where are you in school now? Hi Tiffany. God bless everyone on this site, but especially you and your family Paul. I'm not going to worry about you anymore, you're going to be just fine. Of course I'll continue to read your posts and offer suggestions when I have ideas and can't fight the urge, but I realize you don't expect us to fix your problems. All we can really provide is an open ear and our best wishes. Well I've got to go to bed. But kicks all 'round. Good night Grandma. Posted by: Whitney on January 9, 2003 11:57 AMfrom IP:hi gang...whew!! trying to catch up on all the posts...there's been a few! cat - me too again, with the thanks...this site and your site are great! ok gang, if you haven't already checked out cat's site and links...do so after you've posted here....she's one funny and witty person with a dead on aim for whatever has captured her interest at the time. ummm - let's see what else.... granny mildred, what collages? see it in whit's post but do not remember seeing it elsewhere... tiffany..only 2 degrees between mercurio and groban - cOOl..i'll have to give it a try with the late great gene kelly! later...... Posted by: bluedog on January 9, 2003 01:17 PMfrom IP:Good morning, Whitney, One comment about teaching in junior high. In my day, the 7th and 8th grades were always deemed the hardest of all...it must be the hormone levels of the kids in their early teens! Bluedog, Cat will probably post my collages of "Strictly Ballroom" on the Yahoo site. I made them, lovingly, with a digital camera, my computer, and a great printing program. 'Nuf said! Suz, "Hildegarde" was only shown, so far, at two children's film festivals in Berlin and Melbourne. I am showing my video concert, "Sights and Sounds of Music" again this evening. I hope those people that were turned away on Tuesday night return early enough to get seats. One observation: I compile scenes from video from all over, choose the scene I want, and copy it to a master tape. What I am doing is film editing. (Whitney, I do it the old fashioned way, to accommodate a 9ft. screen in the auditorium, and a projection VCR on the ceiling. I have such a large collection of tapes that I can keep the program going, even though there are few video tapes for sale in the stores...everything has gone DVD!) Now, the film editor of "Strictly Ballroom" is Jill Bilcock, and her work is well known in the industry. However, with SB, she goofed a bit, you should excuse me, Paul. In two important dance sequences, "Perhaps" and "Time After Time" she has Tara out of sight for just a second, and it bothered me! Could I have done better? YOU BET! Love, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 9, 2003 04:14 PMfrom IP:Paul, I have two questions for you. 1. How come you didn't respond to the questions in the NYRs comments section? 2. Have you ever considered being a competitor on 'Fear Factor'? I feel a little angry that you didn't respond to my post. But I guess you must be too busy. Hope to get a response from you in this post. Sara Posted by: Sara on January 9, 2003 10:25 PMfrom IP:Good morning Grandma. Gosh, it sounds like you missed your calling. You could have been a cinematographer! I admire you for taking on the technology required for your collages and shows. I couldn't even get my mother, let alone my grandfather, on a computer. You amaze me! I think you're right about the hormone factor in this age group. I'm sure they're much calmer individually. When you get them in a pack, there's peer pressure and they tend to get rowdy. Of course drawing promotes moments of quiet concentration as well as fun chatter. I want them to have fun, but they have to do some concentrating too. Drawing is initially about improving your skills of observation. This is a Christian academy and there wasn't a room available for this class so we're working in the balcony of the sanctuary. It's very informal and we get to use this super nice projector. There wasn't a slide projector in the whole school, but I didn't have all the images I wanted on slide anyway. I scanned them from my text book, so this arrangement is perfect. Hey bluedog. I checked out Cat's site and you're right. It's very interesting! I read some of her posts and I enjoyed her sharp mind and kick ass writing style. I'm going to look some more. She had some very insightful comments on film. Have a good day everyone! Posted by: Whitney on January 9, 2003 10:52 PMfrom IP:Oh Cat, I forgot to ask you something. Are you referring to personal profiles on Yahoo Groups as the place to post our picture? I went to your site which led me to the Shuttlecock site you admire. I generated an Alanis Morissette song. It was fun. I'll visit some more. I'm impressed! Posted by: Whitney on January 9, 2003 10:59 PMfrom IP:Whitney, just having figured out the uploading photo thing, you have to subscribe/register to the group first and then the photo link is activated afterwards, klick on it and it'll show you the photos that are currently there. Then I think you have to click on Photoalbums and there is the option to add a photo and you can take it from there. Of course I personally was very tempted to add a photo when I was about 6 months old, but I stopped myself in time and put it on my own website instead and added a much more recent one there. Whitney, what the heck are we going to do with our dictionary club???? Cat, a very happy new year to you and thanks for all your efforts. I, too, like your website, interesting stuff on there!!! Grandma, you amaze me with all your computer literacy & technology saviness. Good for you!!!! and I'd love to see your collages too!!!! I've got my own Mum to use a computer, mostly for typing stuff and I taught her a bit about creating images and charts etc. but I cannot for the life of me convince her to get email. I've been working on that one for almost 2 years... I hope to "wear her down" sooner rather than later. Dhiana, just give the newbies a chance to get to know you .... :-) and re. the 3 feet of snow, care to share some of it with us here? We still don't have any. On the other hand with this "exercise craze" going on here, shoveling snow is a pretty darn good work out, so there you have yours! Caryn, I'm glad you and Michela are on good terms again and boy are you a fast paper writer!!!! Hope you enjoyed your more than well-deserved sleep. Suz, how's your cold doing? I hope the cold is doing badly and you great and on your way to health. Mine unfortunately is still sticking around .... Damn! And please no kicks anywhere near my abdominal muscles, they are being overexercized particularly at night from this overly persistent cough and are sore enough!!!!!, and no kicks in the shins either for me, that'd hurt too much!!! How's your exercising going, Suz? A hug to Sami. Paul, you know (of course you do... :-)) that there is a whole lot of freedom in being human (kind of along the same lines as your positive affimation strategies that you mentioned in the initial post of this thread), in the sense that you can free yourself from being upset about feeling frustrated, stressed, having to dog-paddle etc. It is soooooo totally okay to be down at times, to feel sorry for yourself etc. who doesn't? but there's also nothing wrong with feeling and experiencing these things either, it's part of being human and thus has the potential to take the pressure off. Here's another hug for you, and also one for Andrea and your daughters. And for your mentally beautifully growing garden, three of my favorite things to have in one: a softly cascading water fountain, ferns (kind of like the ones one sees on the galleries in New Orleans, only planted in the ground) and calla lilies. Everyone, have a wonderful & happy day! Posted by: Evelyn on January 10, 2003 12:30 AMfrom IP:Hey, Cat, Hey, Evelyn, Grandma Mildred and Grandpa Elliott are now on the Yahoo Photo site, next to you! What beautiful company we have! Is the other picture of our Suz and her husband? Let me tell you, it so wonderful seeing the people with whom we correspond. Now, Tim, you can give me some hints on my hair and makeup! Excuse the double chin...I'm working on it! Lots of seniors in our community have computers, some are taking computer courses, but I don't know anyone here that does posters and cards. I have been doing it for a couple of years, and have given some lessons, but it does take a certain amount of expertise, which I have gained over the years through trial and error! Cat, am I able to post my collages the way I did the pictures of Elliott and me? The collages are on my hard drive, in a file. I won't do anything until you instruct me. Also, do I need any kind of legal release? (You know what I mean!) Love, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 10, 2003 01:55 AMfrom IP:Grandma: I wouldn't put the collages on the group (sadly) because we have a limited amount of space. Even if you make them 72dpi, they will still be very large. If you made them small enough, no one would be able to see them! I'm finally starting on the work I wanted to start a few months ago. My life is *finally* calming down to the point where I have regular time to work on my sites. Yay! So let me put the collages on the site, where we aren't so limited. Also to all: thanks all for the kudos on fryopia! I love my little corner of the web. Posted by: Cat on January 10, 2003 05:39 AMfrom IP:So many wonderful posts to read and me with not enough time to do it. Hello all! Paul, I hope your new year is going great. And everyone else of course! My husband bought me this wonderful book called "Simple Abundance: A Daybook of Comfort and Joy" by Sarah Ban Breathnach. It provides me a daily dose of inspiration and appreciation. I felt some of them were quite appropriate with the tone of this and most of the other threads. Might I share? "It's only when we truly know and understand that we have a limited time on earth -- and that we have no way of knowing when our time is up -- that we will begin to live each day to the fullest, as if it was the only one we had." So forget about New Years resolutions, I say we should have daily resolutions. Mine today was to not yell at my children, embrace their joy and show them my own. Tell my children and my husband how much I love them. Show them how much I love them with my tone of voice and interest in their lives. I am happy to report I succeeded with todays resolutions and look forward to another success tomorrow. Take care! Posted by: Michelle- Nova Scotia on January 10, 2003 05:54 AMfrom IP:Whitney, Im a Junior right now and this is my sencond semester, I started Advanced art on monday, and Im actually doing alright for now, I made a large bubble letter adversement with markers and made it very colorful and My teacher Ms. G thought is was very good. so maybe I'll do alright in that class. although my Psychology class is getting harder :( I hope you have a good week!! and God Bless u too!! Grandma, thats so wonderful that the tickets are doing so well!! im very happy for you!! Im sure its going to be a wondeful show!! wish the actors good luck for me and u too!!!! love always! Caryn, True friends can always go through anything and always work it out no matter what! im glad you and michela have that! Kicks to everyone from me! although mine wouldn't be as high since Ive been doing kicks at school in dance!! OOh my muscules! XXOO"S to everyone love always Evelyn and Grandma, I went to the Yahoo site and saw the Photo's and had the biggest thrill when I saw that you two had posted your pictures!!! You are both so beautiful!!! (Grandpa too) he is very handsome! thank you for posting them!! 2 degrees to Gene Kelly?? I almost met him several years ago. I was at Disney Studios having a meeting with a director - I cannot remember his whole name - First name Kenny - he was a choreographer turned director and I think was shooting Hocus Pocus with Bett Midler when I met him. He was a close personal of Kenny's and I am obviously a big fan of Gene's. He was in Hospital at the time and Kenny offfered to arrange a meeting for me when Gene came out of hospital. Sadly it never happened. But there you are - two degrees. Sara, sorry you are feeling angry. I am sure you have seen that I do not respond to every question every one asks. I do not mean to be rude - sometimes there are so many new posts that my head is spinning by the time I read them all and then I start thinking about many things and thus often dont post direct responses. So to answer a question or two - you always get tired on a film shhot, they are very long hard working days. I try not to get cranky as that is not very professional. I do not keep in touch with any actors I have worked with really - mainly because we are often in different country's and busy doing other projects. I do think it is fair that parents charge board to a child if that child is in there twenty's and working. I would charge my kids board in that case and I paid board to my Mum when I was working. I think it is fair and shows respect to your parents and to yourself. Michelle, I am right in there with the idea of daily resolutions. I often ask my self at the beginning of the day what is it I want to achieve today and then go from there. Sometimes it is to only think positive thoughts, sometimes it is to practise my Tai Ji, sometimes to remember to love my life etc Daily resolutions/affirmations/tasks or affirmative action plans - love em! Posted by: Paul on January 10, 2003 07:44 AMfrom IP:Suz, I am here. Just returned from holidays with my family. The first for me in 9 years. Whitney, It's fine for you to ask about my back. To Paul and everyone else at Paul's Corner: Peter Posted by: Peter (ADF) on January 10, 2003 08:27 AMfrom IP:Peter, Damn, you really do have a "crook back"! Both my parents have had times like that where they had to crawl from the bed to the bathroom because of bad backs. My brother had back surgery for a herniated disk two years ago. Now I've been having back problems, which is really worrisome to me because I'm a competitive rower and haven't been able to train because of it. It must run in the family. What is that "Chinese technique" you were talking about. I've tried Reike, but it didn't seem to do much. Yoga helps me, but only when I'm already on the road to recovery or to prevent further pain. When my back is really bad, yoga just makes it worse. Caryn Posted by: Caryn on January 10, 2003 09:48 AMfrom IP:Cat: Thanks...I've been on the internet for a long time and have never seen or used the term blog. Learn something everyday..isn't that the great thing about life? My desk calendar actually is a "word a day" calendar. I'm learning new words.. Sara: Don't get upset with Paul. He's a busy guy and he does at least (at the very least) take time to talk to us. That believe it or not should never be taken for granted. So MANY actors out there will give you this opportunity. When I worked with FOX and UPN in L.A., even when you worked with some you couldn't get the time of day from some of them and they knew damn well who you were and why you there and that you were doing a job that was required for THEIR future endoresements. And to ultimately help THEM. He's said in a previous post he tries to respond. That's enough for me. Peter: They show "The Crocodile Hunter" on the Animal Planet channel here in Atlanta. My kids LOVE that show. That's why they want to visit Austalia. Paul...Heads up dude... Tait Brady with Palace Films in Melbourne is willing to take a look at my script. I'm going to send it to him in a week or so when I'm finished with the re-write. Wish me luck. Posted by: Tim Hord on January 10, 2003 10:34 AMfrom IP:Caryn, My general advice is to find both a good physio and a good chiropractor who can agree on the nature and source of your problem and then provide some synergistic support for you in healing. Caryn, I sympathise with your frustration due to the injury. Do not give up hope. If I've learnt anything, it's this: Have you guys looked in to Pilates? It may not be too good as a treatment to fix the problem but to help keep the body aligned, straight and true it is a good form of exercise. A lot of dancers use Pilates techniques to help them recover from injuries and also to help keep fit. Over the last 10 years it has become much more main stream and now even gyms are offering pilates classes. Just check for a qualified instructor - there are a lot of people teaching it without the right sort of training. In fact my wife is about to undertake the training so she can eventually (if she decides she wishes to)become a qualified instructor. Posted by: Paul on January 10, 2003 10:57 AMfrom IP:Paul, Thanks mate. That is great news Tim!!! Chookas to you for that one. Peter great to see you back from Hols! Do you surf? I was up at Noosa shooting a video clip and the waves looked great! I was shooting on the beach so whilst working my butt off I could watch the waves and the guys riding them - JEALOUS!! I had a surf last year and absolutely loved it - I used to surf almost every day before kids arrived. Paul, Pilates. :) I just started, can't wait until I become flexible enough to .. :) Anyway, hi again Paul, it always gives me a little thrill to see you post on the board. I've been advertising you to all the Grobanites. :) If the Grobanites like you, you can go far. We've already gotten Josh on Oprah, Simpsons, etc;. :) Hope all is well, see you. - Tiffany Posted by: Tiffany on January 10, 2003 12:03 PMfrom IP:Wow! Paul is right! There are so many posts. It's a bit intimidating to try and read them all, let alone respond. Evelyn, thanks for the explanaition on the photo upload thang. I'll have to try and mess with that tomorrow. I took a class that taught Latin and Greek word elements to build English vocabulary. Our teacher always made us bring a new word to class each day. Our definitions had to include the word origin info. That was fun. Maybe the Dictionary Club could try that? Kelli, I keep thinking you already mentioned this in a previous post, but are you a junior n highschool or college? If you choose to study art further, you may find yourself struggling for inspiration and motivation on assignments. Just keep at it and try to personalize your solutions; explore your interests. Initially, you won't have a direction of your own, but it will develop in time. Then you can really focus. Even when I had to write papers for art history class, I would pick a subject that helped me develop my personal direction. It kept me interested. Peter, glad you're back! Gosh, I'm sorry to hear about the complexity of your back pain. I beleive the mind is much more capable of controling paing than when can appreciate. Maybe a small bio feedback device could help you relax those muscles. You can get them cheaper these days, but they're still out of my range right now; I've wanted to try one for a long time. Are you referring to some sort of polarity therapy in your post to Caryn? Paul, I just picked up a book at the public library called "The Pilates Powerhouse" by Mari Winsor. I was thinking it might help my back pain and I'm definitely loosing flexibility. The illustrations are interesting. It's looks sort of like isometric exercise. I'm going to check it out. Oh, and I think that technically, that qualified as envy on the beach, unless those people took your wave, board or surfing priviledges away from you. Tiffany, who are the Grobanites? Tim, that's fantastic! I was just reading about query letters and you're already there and beyond. This sounds like your hard earned break! Best of luck! Grandma, Cats right about your collages. It sounds like she has a great solution though. I'll look for the picture page tomorrow. It's 2:30am and I've been working on my Powerpoint presentation too long. I can only sit at this computer for a certain amount of time before my back begins to tighten up and spasm. Back when I did my thesis paper, I was in so much pain, I had to pull my bed up to my computer and finish the paper while lying on my stomache. Good night everyone and sweet dreams Grandma. Posted by: Whitney on January 10, 2003 02:47 PMfrom IP:Whitney, Thanks for the suggestion re bio-feedback for muscle tension. We've tried it some time ago without success. As my physio said (after pulling some of her lovely hair out): "It's not the muscles, it's not the nerves, it's in that brain". Oh well. Peter: You're absolutely right about the miles in the tank left for you "youngsters." When I was 40, I reinvented myself, by going back to college, going to classes day and night (our 3 daughters were pretty self-sufficient after school) and getting a teaching degree. I taught elementary school for 21 1/2 years, a most satisfying and memorable time, and now I am 70, retired for 12 years with my husband in Florida,(where DID the time go?) and again, am reinvented. Today I am involved in doing stage and screen projects in our retirement community, Here's Grandma's simple advice: "It's never too late, you CAN teach an old dog new tricks, easy does it, one day at a time", and that all time favorite, "if you don't succeed....." (I give you all an A!) Cheers, everyone, and good health to you all! Love and best wishes, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 10, 2003 07:31 PMfrom IP:Thanks everyone. Oh no biggie on the age really. It's just I've already been in two different colleges for 6 years of my life. And I have re-invented myself a lot since I was 37...just keep waiting on my break to make it a "successful ($$) makeover. The salon I'm working for did ask me to serve as their Controller yesterday. So I'll be working for them in a financial capacity as we as a stylist. The good news is I demand a nice fee for the accounting work...god knows I've earned that. So Peter, they're telling you it's a brain irregularity or psychosomatic? My chiropractor told me I have "soft tissue damage". What the heck's that? I was doing better until last summer when I spent a few months bending at the waist, teaching at a couple of children's art camps. I read once that back pain is sometimes associated with financial worries. I imagine that's possible and probably a factor in my case. I just want it to go away. I wake up in pain. In fact, I can only lie down for about 7 hours before pain forces me out of bed. Someone mentioned the Crock Hunter before (was that you Peter?). I don't have cable tv, but my sister watches him all the time. I think he's on the Animal Planet channel. I haven't seen probably more than 5 shows, but I love his enthusiasm and he's downright adorable in a chubby sort of way. It's very supsensful when he goes about poking at snakes etc. I also think it's cool that his wife and he share a love of nature as well as a job. They're a team! Gosh Grandma, you've had a full life! You're right; 40 is young. We can choose any direction at our daily crossroads. Thanks for encouraging me. Got to get ready for work. The nice thing about this teaching job is that I'm not going in to work until 11:00am, two days a week. The other three days are free for me to structure. Of course, as Grandmas knows, there's some outside work involved in teaching. I love having the morning to eat, do aerobics and walk my dog. Actually, he walks ; I sit and read a book lately. We had two wonderfuly warm days this week (it got up to 72 degrees!), but now it be cold out there!!!!! Butt kicks all 'round Love! Posted by: Whitney on January 10, 2003 11:04 PMfrom IP:Tim, Tim, you don't know how happy I am for you with the news that you will be working as a controller as well as a stylist...way to go, young man! Yes, the years do pass quickly, and the small children will "suddenly" be all grown up, so try to enjoy every precious moment! I am so happy for you that I am typing this with great difficulty, but I wanted to get this message to you quickly. I just came back from the opthomologist, who had dilated my eyes for an exam. Now the computer screen is jumping, but I was able to read your post, and am answering you while almost whooping with joy on learning about your news! Love, best wishes, good luck, and all that stuff! Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 10, 2003 11:05 PMfrom IP:Now I'm thinking about actually putting in the Pilate’s tape I bought awhile ago. I actually do the "Gazelle" workout. Crank up the Oingo Boingo (I'm aging myself) and it's a hoot. I was hit by a car when I was biking about 5 years ago, and the Gazelle is so low impact and really gets my heart pumping. What bums me out is that I can no longer do the gymnastics I used to because of the way the accident left my right shoulder. Kind of a change in subject, I always wanted to visit "Down Under" until I learned about all those poisonous snakes, spiders (especially the funnel web spider) and goodness knows what else. (Yes I watch the discovery channel and that croc hunter too!) Any problems for you in that area Paul? Oh Cat, checked out the Yahoo group. It's really neat to check out everyone’s pics. I love putting a face to a name. I posted my pic and encourage everyone else to post theirs as well. Neat people on this site. :) Posted by: Michelle- Nova Scotia on January 11, 2003 02:40 AMfrom IP:Peter, I'm glad you had a great trip. Your references to the Big Banana/Pineapple made me laugh ( and I'm still laughing!!!), since I just read about them the other night in my rather funny book about OZ. I think I might just have to do a search on them online and see what they look like. My interest has been peaked.... On the Pilates discussion, having just started it about two weeks ago, I can only recommend it highly. I enjoy it, but it sure is a lot more challenging than it looks, I knew that going in though ... and I think I might finally learn some better posture for my back. Yeah to hopefully no more back pain soon & better spinal alignment. Here's a healthy dose of back support for everyone with back problems, such as Caryn, Whitney, Peter, etc. Tim, good going on the accounting addition to your job!!!! Whitney re. the word of the day suggestions, as long as it doesn't involve Greek (never studied it) or Latin (did study it for several years) but can take it or leave it (the latter of course, upps, I should not have said that, since all Medievalists are supposed to know it and know it well and love it--not me, don't tell on me, if I can avoid it, I will!!!), your on. Didn't I just create a fabulous run-on sentence? :-)))) This is where I will have to do a lot of editing in my thesis. I tend to produce long, complicated sentences, and supposedly American Academics hate that. Oh well! Off to some exercise and then research for the rest of the afternoon. Have a great day & weekend everyone! Posted by: Evelyn on January 11, 2003 03:05 AMfrom IP:Thesis? Do tell Evelyn. What's your paper about? What's a Medievalist? I'm going to read one of Caryn's Social Psych papers this weekend for the pleasure of it. I would love to read your thesis if you want someone to do so. Michelle, I'm afraid of the land down under too! My dog probably wouldn't last a week. Fear of death can sure take the fun out of living somewhere. We have Copperheads and even Rattlesnakes in WV. Now they're promoting the existence of Black Bears; when you camp, you have to put your dog in the car. That is great about the accounting work Tim. More money to keep life going and get you closer to your prefered career. This sort of situation is what I was referring to when I mentioned to Kelli that I also consider what will make me the most money when thinking about jobs. You make more cash per hour in the CPA career so it will inadvertently continue to be developed as you wend your way towards being able to support yourself doing what you love. Work doesn't pay well in WV and it's also not a place conducive to a career in sculpture. Circumstances have shaped my thinking. Teaching doesn't suck, but I'd rather be doing something else. It just happens to be the highest paying job I can get at this moment in time and for once, I'm making money with my masters degree. Things could be much worse. This is keeping me afloat as I pursue my ideal career. Well, my heads above water at least. Today is upper body workout day so I'd better get on it. Bill Phillips is right: the sooner you get it done the more likely you are to do it. I keep finding my mind dwelling on the Chineese buffet down the street. If anyone needs to find me this Sunday, that's where I'll be, stuffing my face with crab rangoon, spring rolls, egg drop soup... I hope you're having a good day Grandma. I forgot to say good morning. What was I thinking? Posted by: Whitney on January 11, 2003 04:01 AMfrom IP:Whitney, Im a Junior in highschool, its been very stressful, like being pressured to find a "career" and be able to take classes for that career that you are suppose to know of by now! of course Im still searching, but I know I will follow what goes with me best. Sometimes I feel I've learned and studied so much I couldn't put anything else into my head, much less remember it all. Lots of time Im up late on school nights because I can't go to sleep because Im thinking about school things. Then when I'm at school its like OOh gosh I wish I could go home! plus all my after school things and friends, it can be very confusing time and Im always feeling like Im fighting a battle with A's B's and C's and if I get anything below I've lost! sorry Im going on so much guess Im just venting! lol I hope your doing great, Have a good Weekend! Paul, My mom has a tape of a Pilates workout!! I did it with her a couple of times and thought it worked very well with muscle strength and toning! ;) Kick!! lol Hope all is well with you! Grandma, I hope you are doing wonderfully! Im glad you went back to college it helps knowing that even after you go a first time you can always go back later!! ;) For the People who mentioned the Croc Hunter!! I love him too!!! he isn't camera shy at all! lol and he never acts too cool which I think makes him even cooler!! lol Love to all!! everyone have a great weekend!! Whitney, "Soft tissue" generally means tendons, ligaments and spinal discs. The damage usually heals, albeit sometimes with scar tissue. Bending and any form of safe mobility exercise generally helps with flexibility, especially backs. Evelyn, I'm still shaking my head about it myself. Where the hell did this "Big" thing start? Grandma, If we all had your energy and kindness, then the world would be a much better place. Thanks. Posted by: Peter on January 11, 2003 05:37 AMfrom IP:Yeah, I read a book by Hans Selye when I was 18 and he pretty much laid it out. I also read a book called "Skin Deep" (can't remember the author) and it explored the connections between mental stress and how it shows up on our skin sometimes. It was pretty convincing and insightful. Who knows what's going on in my subconsciouse? Obviously I wouldn't. How is your doc suggesting you approach this? Kelli, I know it's hard, but try to avoid working on stuff about 30 minutes or so before you need to go to bed. I find that if I'm on the computer or working on a pieces of art right before bed, I can't sleep either. Well, my dog needs OUT, Oh and I've tried to post a picture to the album, but it won't let me. =( I'll keep trying. Everyone looks great! Posted by: Whitney on January 11, 2003 05:56 AMfrom IP:Dear Peter, Flattery will get you everywhere with this grannie! I am humbled by your words, and if my "vast" experiences have helped just one person, I am indeed happy! This site is so rich with the thoughts and insights of so many, so eloquently written, that the site should be published to help others not as fortunate as we. We must thank Paul and Cat... (shhhh, let's not embarrass them!) They are truly our dynamic duo! What other celebrity would answer almost 200 posts with such insight, love, and devotion? I am not aware of anyone...except our Paul! So, let's serenade Paul and Cat with this ditty, which I wish I wrote, but didn't...Cole Porter did! All right, follow me, read my lips! "You're the top, Love, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 11, 2003 07:15 AMfrom IP:*blush* Posted by: Cat on January 11, 2003 07:32 AMfrom IP:Peter you left out the BIG MARINO (just outside Yass or is Goulburn??)Plenty more we probably dont even know about it. As far as all the deadly creepy crawlies we have here - yes we do have lots but they generally dont bother you if you dont bother them! Generally LOL! Congrats Tim on the promotion/addition to your work load and your $load! Although this is not in line with the general discussion I have been thinking about deceit, dishonesty and the Human Nature. Two things got me thinking regarding this: After giving my life over (okay my career) to my agent for one year and then determining it was not going in the direction I thought was healthy for me, I, as you know, left. I did discuss my concerns with my now ex agent whose attitude was of a couldnt care less nature. What gets me the most is upon leaving I thanked my agent for the work they had done on my behalf and wished them the best for the future. What did I get from them? Nothing!! I asked for them to send anything pertaining to me which they did with a short note saying - here is the stuff pertaining to you. The question is what did I want. I wanted them to say thanks for the year you spent with us, shame (maybe even sorry) it didnt work out, I wish you all the best the your future. But no, not a word. The attitude shown shows I was right in leaving, I just feel a little ripped off that after putting my faith, trust and dreams in their hands they couldnt even raise a good luck at the end of it all. To me there is something dishonest/deceitful in this. My ex agent had a duty of care towards me that I feel they failed in and then punctuated it with a full stop by their lack of care at the end of it. I acted with integrity did they?? Which brings me to my next dissapointment .... retail dishonesty!!!!!! What is the difference between telling the customer what they want to hear and telling a lie? If you tell a lie to a customer but that is what they want to hear therefore it is their truth - is it still a lie?? A lie to the slaesman but a truth to the customer. So, have I told a lie? NO! Have I repeated something that I have been told but am unclear on the truth of it, Yes! They are more likely exagerations on the facts but not untruths. I have heard people say that you cannot get anywhere in this business by being honest. What a disappointing indictment on human nature. I am not stooping to that level nor their truth. That word I aspire to - Integrity - shall be my guide. - I wonder how long I will last??? That question is not how long will my integrity hold but how long I can be a salesman, my way, before I get sacked or chuck in the towel. Ah life experience!!! Character building dog paddling!!!! Posted by: Paul on January 11, 2003 08:35 AMfrom IP:Just saw your song Grandma!! Thanks!! I love the fact that we are all out here and contributing to the positive growth of all those that post and or reads. The great collective conciousness is a powerful tool, a vibrant and health promoting energy that we, in doing this, NOURISH and thereby ourselves. Thanks to Cat - a very special person!!!! Posted by: Paul on January 11, 2003 08:39 AMfrom IP:Paul, Yes you're absolutely dead right. Dear Paul, I'm glad you aren't willing to deceive to make a sale Paul. After all, the product should be good enough to sell itself. At least you aren't having to go door to door. When people come into your store, it's likely they're looking to buy or at least wanting to do some research before buying. You provide a valuable service by being able to explain features and point out benefits. I don't think you'll be able to go on comfortably without getting the "untruths" straightened out. I wouldn't be able to sleep knowing I hooked someone up with something less than what they could have had. The only satisfaction that a sales job could hold for me would be the feeling of accomplishment I could derive from helping someone determine exactly what they need and helping them get it. I'm guessing your employer is asking you to exagerate the value of something in order to unload it for more than it's currently worth. Maybe you can just tell your boss what he wants to hear and tell the truth to the customers. Honesty sells. Goodnight Grandma. Posted by: Whitney on January 11, 2003 09:36 AMfrom IP:Grandma..loved the song. Hang in there, Paul...Your ex-agent did nothing for you which is a shame because one would think that they want to do their job! How do you recruit an agent that will work with your best interest at heart? There must be someone out there! I only just began to write letters on your behalf - too early to see where this journey leads. Also, I felt badly that you were so close to meeting Gene Kelly and didn't. It would seem that you are kindred spirits. Did you have a role model for your dancing? Just wondering. Linda Posted by: Linda Thomas on January 11, 2003 11:35 AMfrom IP:Tim, "...get some oars and start rowing towards that next film." I couldn't have said it better myself! ;) Paul, I really know nothing about agents and especially your ex-agent in particular, but I was thinking a little about this actions, and I have a feeling it was a sort of self-preservation thing. It always hurts to be told you didn't do a good job (which I'm sure he didn't!) So he probably tried to convince himself that you just didn't have the talent and that's why he didn't find you any jobs, rather than the truth that he was the one without the talent. He did that by blowing you off, by not sending a note of "thanks," by not sending you your stuff, by not acknowledging your talents. He responded by treating you badly because he felt badly that you left him (which you rightfully should have). I'm not defending his actions, I'm just saying that it is human nature to get a bit defensive, to defend your own ego at the expense of others. Wouldn't you agree? So don't feel bad about the way he treated you. The best thing to do is just move on and find someone worthy of your talent! Speaking of your talent, I am slowly but surely introducing all my friends here at Harvard to that which is *Paul Mercurio*. Mostly through SB, but tomorrow's task is to rent and watch Joseph. I can't wait. Cat, I'd like to add my voice to the chorus of thanks going around for this website. You're awesome. I went perusing through your frykitty site, too. Very entertaining. :) I also have a question for you: I emailed the woman from whom you said we could buy Life's Burning Desire, but haven't gotten a response. Do you know of where else we can get it? Whit, let me know what you think of the paper I sent you. If you want another, I can send you the one I just finished. It's a scientific analysis of sexual addiction... muahahaha. I started erging again this week. Back seems to be holding up. Doing yoga again, too. Peter, have you ever tried Vioxx? It's kind of like Ibuprofin, but ten times better. I had some problems with my rib/intercostal this past summer, so the team doctor just shoved a huge box of it at me, and it really worked wonders! (I rowed in Worlds completely drugged up on the stuff... all drugs legal for competition, of course!) Paul, will look into Pilates. Thanks. Kelli, WHOA GIRL! Slow down, sugah! :) Don't worry so much. (I know, easier said than done!) But goodness, you're only in high school. That's the time to have fun with life, not to stress about your future. Heck, all times in life are to have fun, as long as you keep the future in the back of your mind. Believe me, grades don't matter that much. Five years down the road from now when you're trying to get a job, nobody is going to look at your high school transcript. Trust me. Oh sure, you need good grades to get into college, but grades are less than half of the equation. You have to find your passion, something that defines you and makes you special. What are you passionate about? For me, it was rowing. Yes, my grades were good, but to be honest with you, it wouldn't have mattered what my grades were like. Grades certaintly weren't what got me into Harvard...! Harvard could fill its entire freshman class with kids who got a 1600 on the SAT's. But they don't, because then we'd be a pretty boring bunch of students, wouldn't we? Instead, they look for people with spark, people who are unique who will add a fresh new perspective when they move in freshman year. (BTW, don't believe that new book "The Game of Life". It's full of crap. I went to a talk by the author, and the Harvard athletes in the audience were running intellectual circles around this poor guy during the Q/A session!!) Evelyn, I had my Wirtschaftdeutsch final today and thought of you. Ich werde dir ein email diese Wochenende schreiben... ;) Ok, over and out. Gotta be up for morning practice tomorrow. Or training, as they say in Oz. I always cop flack from my Aussie friends for saying practice. Paul, which do you say? Bon nuit, mes amies! Caryn, Vioxx....OOOOH, please don't scare me!!Thanks for the advice, but I'm strongly allergic to Ibuprofin. I had it prescribed for me when I first injured my back at age 18, but took an immediate adverse reaction to it. It was very worrying. Just wanted to make this post as it is the first time we have reached 200 comments in one post!!!! Will comment later. YeeHAAAH! Posted by: Paul on January 11, 2003 01:34 PMfrom IP:Dear Peter, Here Dr. Grandma Mildred giving you some advice from personal experience about the use of pain killers. I suffer from arthritis of the knee, and it caused much stiffness and pain. I tried all the extra strength stuff, to no avail, until my orthopedist told me to take CELEBREX, and not Vioxx, which has numerous, dangerous side effects. I am fine now, no pain, no stiffness, and I feel like a "new" woman, which at my age, is quite a miracle! Just trying to get behind the wheel of the car to drive was torture, but now it is easy! Hope you are able to try Celebrex without the side effects you mentioned with Vioxx. Good luck! Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 11, 2003 07:30 PMfrom IP:Paul, Yeah its 201 I guess this will make 202! gettin up there! I hope eveything with your agent and ex agent works out well!! Grandma, Ive been taking Vioxx for awhile for my lower back problems, its been helping, I never heard about side effects!! :( what are they?? I've been taking it since the first of December, but not every day more like once a week or whenever I have pain in my back. My doctor told me to take vextra (sp?) and it cost so much almost 200$ a bottle so the alternative was Vioxx, advil works but not as well. Ifprofen has worked in the passed, and I went to a chiroprator over summer but I heard its not good to have your back popped all the time. anyways Caryn, I know what you mean!! must stop and smell the roses!! its the weekend and I have no more work till monday so yea Im going to have fun! and not going to think about school! ;) thanks you!!! Whitney, Im taking your advice too and not working pass 9:00 or try not to! so that I'll have like 2 hours of not thinking about school work. what kind of art work do you do?? right now in class we are working on self portraits!! its one of my favs beside painting I think!! although I can't get any of the portraits to look like me so they aren't really self portraits there just portraits!! lol hope all is well! Love to all!! Caryn: How long ago did you write her? She sometimes takes a while--perhaps even a month--to get back. Write me directly in case I don't get a chance to check the board. By the way--I recommend that to everyone. Paul is better than I am about keeping up here, and I don't want to miss any questions! :) Posted by: Cat on January 11, 2003 10:40 PMfrom IP:Dearest Kelli, I don't want to alarm you about Vioxx, but in general, when anyone is given a prescription for anything, the best course of action is to be cautious, find out information on the product, and question your doctor if you are unsure! We seniors have learned that one must be a careful consumer, especially in drugs! Go to www.Vioxx.com and read the literature...be aware, "don't be scared!" If we all paid attention to the contraindications on the drugs, we wouldn't take anything! Chances are, you are safe with Vioxx. My cardiologist did not want me to take it. Actually, he gave me free samples of Celebrex. Be cautious, beware, be safe! Love you, Grandma Mildred Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 12, 2003 12:31 AMfrom IP:Dear Grandma Mildred, Hey Paul!! Congrats on a BIG 200! Naturally we're expecting a truly profound next posting to surpass this achievement. (just kidding). Dear Grandma Mildred, Hey Paul!! Congrats on a BIG 200! Naturally we're expecting a truly profound next posting to surpass this achievement. (just kidding). NO!.... I wasn't trying to emphasise that last posting!! I blame it on "button bounce". Does anyone believe me?? Posted by: Peter on January 12, 2003 05:48 AMfrom IP:I beleive you Peter! lol Dear Grandma, Take care!! lots of love Wow!!! Now my mind is spinning and where do I begin??? Okay, let me begin to respond to you, Paul. I'm really sorry that you are getting this kind of crappy treatment from your ex-agent. Can the 'world' please give you a break??? and in now way do you deserve that kind of shit. The fact that it upset you as much as it did does speak for your integrity, A LOT!!! and I hope that you never doubt yourself on that account. I've often wondered, why it is that people who care deeply, who have the greatest integrety, end up getting hurt because of it, and quite frankly, I'm not sure what the answer to this question is. This thanklessness from your ex-agent really does not speak highly for him/her at all, and as someone already said, points to problems on their side. Let it be their problem and reject every attempt they made/make to make it yours. It's their problem, let it blow up in their face!!! They have no right to hold that kind of power over you and transfer their problem onto you. Classic avoidance strategy and rather scum. Whenever you feel this is pulling you down, refuse them that power. You are out of their league and remind yourself of that!!! Re. the dishonesty issue at work, that's really a tough one. Only you will know how long you can take it and survive in an environment that seems to compromise your own ethical values and moral beliefs. It's a really nasty, icky feeling and it makes me angry that people think they have the right to do that to another human being. My ex-boss did that to me repeatedly and after a year and a half of struggling to survive in that environment, I could not take it anymore. The first opportunity I had to get a different job, I took it and was out of there. I miss my old job (teaching), but at least I don't have my soul poisened by a cold and disrespectful boss anymore and from that perspective, I'm far better off and throughout was able to remain true to myself and my own beliefs. You, too, will find your way, give yourself that time! Peter, I did look at the Big bizzare objects in OZ last night on the web and I laughed so hard, it hurt, and quite frankly there are so many of them, which makes it even more bizzare. I think I'll skip that one, when I eventually visit OZ, unless I happen to come across one accidentally. Re. your question, does the US have some of these things? hmm, .... when does the US not go for big, bigger, biggest??? and of course the Big Banana supposedly was the idea of an American ... no surprise there (for me...) Not being an American, I think I should let them answer that question, but I vaguely remember some bizzare biggish objects along some roads here in Minnesota, like the Green Giant in some valley (the symbol of a vegetable canning company) and also a huge fish "up North" (= northern Minnesota) and the giant lumberjack with his blue bull in connection with Paul Bunyan. Most of these are 2D rather than 3D though and tend to be in the style of huge advertising bulletin boards along rural highways. No, no visiting centers or tourist shops in them, as seems to be the case with most of them in OZ, you guys win on that account. Whitney, you probably looked up "medievalist" in your dictionary by now, but here is my def. of it--by the way, sorry about using it in the first place. It's a household word for me, but not for most other people--a medievalist is someone who studies the Middle Ages (ca. 400/500 - close to 1500 AD depending on the country) traditionally limited to (Western) Europe, but now expanded to the study of e.g. Asia, Russia, the Islamic world etc. during that time period. It covers pretty much every possible subject you can think of, as long as it is within this time period, such as literature, language, culture, history, art, music, theology, the sciences, archeology, bla bla bla bla ... I'm predominantly approaching it through literature, culture in Western Europe, but have meddled with pretty much most of the things I mentioned as being part of Medieval Studies (and please do not spell it Mid-evil, which is what a lot of people do, it is soooooo annoying!!!! and no, I do not study something half way evil!! :-))))) Okay, for the British/Australian English spellers its 'mediaeval'.) The topic of my thesis ..... hmmmmmmmmmm .... hmmmmm .... --of course I know what the topic is!!! but how do I state this in a short manner???? -- don't know, other than that is on the Arthurian romance "Iwein/Yvain/Ywein" --pick your preferred spelling-- really cool medieval story, unfortunately mostly ignored, and I'm working on disputed gender categories, esp. in terms of what was perceived to be appropriate female behavior of aristocratic women and to what extent these cultural adaptations reflect historical reality. Probably I've lost you by now. If you really want to know more about it, you can read a description of the thesis on my web site http://www.tc.umn.edu/~meye0289/Dissertation.html but keep in mind that I wrote this for medievalists, who at least should know what some of the issues are that I'm working on/out/through --whatever. And re. you wanting to read this, that's fine with me, but it is over 200 pages long already and I'm not quite done with it yet. Caryn, I'm looking forward to your email, and of course I'm hoping that you only had positive thougths about me while taking your business German final, rather than "Damn this language and their particular customs, rules and regulations!!!" although, sometimes I'm thinking this about my own language and heritage :-)))) How did the exam go? And re. the "Life's Burning Desire" tape, I did get mine incredibly fast, so if you want to visit me, we can make an evening/weekend out of it, but I sure as hell won't loan it to you, by sending it through the mail!!! Not a chance!!!!! But it's REALLY interesting!!! and I particularly liked the creative process behind ACE and its first performance--Paul is probably thinking by now, "Geez, that was so long ago" etc. etc. And Kelli, I can only second what has already been said re. lightening up on the grade pressure. I know it is hard and it gets me every damn single time that I'm taking a class, although by now, I usually end up laughing at myself at some point. In the larger picture of life, it really doesn't matter so much. The important thing is what you learn and that is something no one can take away from your, regardless of what grade you got in a particular class/course. I guess, do your best, enjoy it and try not to buy into the grade pressure and instead focus more on learning. I too love the pictures of everyone. It's great to be able to put a face to the name and thoughts of the people who post here. How long will it take before the guys will finally post their pics there???? LOL, Grandpa Elliot seems a bit lonely, although, who knows, he might just enjoy all the female company. I hope we are not getting him into tooooo much trouble, Grandma Mildred. By the way, I think it's fantastic that your shows are (almost) sold out and I hope that all the rehearsals continue to go well and that you continue to have as much fun with them as you do!!!! Good going, Grandma! And Whitney, your picture is up there, just thought you should know, since your last comment about it was that it hadn't gotten up there. Okay, okay, okay, I'm shutting up now, and Paul, I REALLY do hope that the 'world' is going to give you a well-deserved break and that things will pick up for you. Love, Evelyn, don't worry about Grandpa Elliott feeling lonely and out of place among all those beautiful young ladies, including you...why do you think he's grinning???? If anyone should ask what 2 grandparents are doing on Paul's Corner, just say we're the chaperones! Rehearsals are going well..what we really are doing is marking time until we can get into our new theatre...I looked in today, and the workmen are working weekends to finish by the middle of January. We may get on the new stage in February, and then open on March 11th and 12th. We
The huge, new curtain will open in folds, from bottom to top to the music of Glenn Miller's "Moonlight Serenade." The scene: a nightclub, with 8 couples dancing quietly to the music..the narrator explains that the floor show will begin will have song, dance, and comedy, all dedicated to thoughts of love and peace. Then, a soloist starts: "Love is in the air, everywhere I look around, 2 acts later, a beautiful 70 year old woman comes out and sings "Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps" with the rhumba rhythm, and then, breaks into the Spanish lyrics, "Quesas, Quesas, Quesas!" Later, a solo dancer, named Dolly, age 75, comes out and dances to "Happy Feet." (That was the music that was playing as Les and Shirley were giving lessons 3 days later after the fiasco at the dance contest where Scott wanted to dance his own steps and lost!) The number only lasts 1 min. 23 seconds, but Dolly will bring down the house! Elliott and I do one act together...I lipsync (my specialty) to the voice of Patsy Cline. I "sing" part of "Heartaches" and then part of "Crazy" and Ellie "accompanies" me on a toy guitar from ToysRUs...always good for a laugh! So this is just a small sampling of what we will finally be doing come March. Wish all of you could be there opening night! Actually, we open one night, and close the next...that's show biz! Goodnight, Whitney! Love, everyone! Grandma (I call Tara my "Dancing Queen" and I am known as "The Lipsync Queen.") Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 12, 2003 08:21 AMfrom IP:Hi Paul and everyone, I haven't posted lately, so Happy New Year to all! Just had to tell you that I had my first Cooper's Pale Ale today. My second, too. That is damn good beer! Love to all, Hi Paul, and eeryone!!! So many new people and such prolific writers you are!! Have you ever heard of Emu oil? I just heard an add on the radio for some new topical analgesic with emu oil that "has been used in Austraila for thousands of years". Thought it was funny. Is it for real? I'll write more later... Margie Posted by: Margie on January 12, 2003 10:11 AMfrom IP:Margie, haven't heard of Emu oil, but there genuinely is a product called Goanna Oil. Hey everyone, Hope everyone is doing well. :) Six degrees of Separation, I figured out Paul & Gene Kelly, maybe someone knows a shorter one? Paul Mercurio was in Exit to Eden with Rosie O'Donell. Rosie O'Donell had Josh Groban on her show. Josh Groban performed at the rehearsals for the Grammys with Luciano Pavarotti, Luciano Pavarotti has performed with Placido Domingo in the Three Tenors, Placido Domingo is connected with John Levine because they are friends. James Levine is connected to Geroge Gershwin because they worked together at the NY Metropolitan Opera. George Gershwin is connected to Lena Horned because Lena Horne has acted for George Gershwin, and Lena Horne is connected to Gene Kelly because she has acted in the play Words and Music in 1948. It's more like 7 degrees or 8, but that's the best I could do. :) - Tiffany Posted by: Tiffany on January 12, 2003 11:10 AMfrom IP:Caryn, I just read your paper and I thought it was very good! I especially liked the fact that you chose a subject that had personal interest for you. Did you say you wanted to be a Vet? You should consider research psychology. Oh and send me the paper on sexual addiction. I took abnormal psych thinking it would be juicy, but the teacher practically put me to sleep (and he was the head of the dept!). I'm sure your paper will be fascinating. I think you're right about Paul's old agent. Like they say, "The best deffense is a good offense.". If the agency apologized, it would be an admission of guilt and that aint gonna' happen. Kelli, on your self-portrait, I recommend starting with the eyes. Drawing is really about observational skills and hand/eye coordination initially. Look back and forth frequently from your subject to your paper. You should never be drawing for very long before you take another look in the mirror. Look, look, look and then look some more! Evelyn, I hadn't looked up Medievalist. I figured you would be able to provide a great definition and you did. It sounds like an interesting paper! I read a few stories about Merlin when I was little. I think one was called "the Crystal Cave"? I'm sure it was a kiddy version of a part of the story, but Arthurian legend does interest me. Send me the paper when you get close to done. If I have time, I'd love to read it. The follies sound fun Grandma! Only one night? That doesnt' seem right with so much love and work involved! Peter, I'm with you. I'd rather fix my back than continue taking this pain medicine. I'm hoping that loosing weight will help a lot. I think you'll succeed at loosing the pain; you have a great attitude. I hope you had a great day Paul and of course that goes for all of my fellow posters as well. Oh, and butt kicks all 'round. According to my "calendar" it's been 11 days since I started my program. I really thought I would have a little trouble letting go of my beer, but I find myself thinking more about food and not even missing alcohol. Tomorrow's my free day, so I'm really looking forward to it. I'm for sure hitting the Chinese buffet! Good night Grandma! Posted by: Whitney on January 12, 2003 12:00 PMfrom IP:Tiffany, I think Paul posted a two degree seperation between him and Gene Kelly. Maybe you missed it. It would have been great if they could have met. Posted by: Whitney on January 12, 2003 12:02 PMfrom IP:Good evening to all! I've read all the posts and feel compelled to respond to Paul's integrity issue with current employer. As I've told you since my first visit to this site, Stay true to yourself! I know that sometimes it is easier said than done, but having spent too many years in retail sales, 17 years as either manager or assistant manager I understand your frustrations. It's really hard to sell diamonds that look like frozen spit, so I didn't. But, because that particular piece was on sale that's what everyone wanted. They hated us because the better quality was not on sale and accused us of "bait and switch" tactics. This is not only the case in jewelry, but in every retail environment that I worked. I finally got to the point, when asked what I thought of a given product, I asked the customer if they wanted the truth or wanted me to lie to them. Most wanted the truth, if it was something I knew nothing about, I told them so. If I had someone in the store that was knowledgable in the product line I turned the customer over to them. I've had supervisor's who did their very best to get me to "push" inferior products or embellish the attributes of products in order to make the sale. I knew that if it didn't do what I said it would I would have to deal with their rath another day. It's not worth the stress. Read up on your products, look at Consumer's digest, read their reviews. Trust me, the customer in the know has already done their homework and they know if you are shooting straight with them. Good morning, Whitney! Tiffany: I don't want to be a spoiler, but George Gershwin (1898-1937) was dead well before James Levine and Placido Domingo were born..Lena Horne was a kid! Gershwin died prematurely of a brain tumor. "Words and Music"(MGM)is a film biography of Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart, the great composer and lyricist...Hart died in his 40s and Rodgers went on to collaborate with Oscar Hammerstein. Together they wrote Oklahoma, Carousel, South Pacific, State Fair, Sound of Music and on and on... Directions on how to find the pictures: You will have to become a member of Yahoo to get into the site. Go to: www.paulmercurio@yahoogroups.com At left click paulmercurio,(not Strictly Click "Photos" at left...that should bring it up. If you go to strictlyballroom and to "photos" you will find some wonderful thumbnails of a very young Paul, Tara, and Baz as they were interviewed about their roles in SB..they were posted some time ago by a young man. I would never have recognized Tara! The thumbnails will enlarge when you click each photo..amazing pictures! Good luck, and if my information is wrong, just chalk it up to a senior moment!! Love, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 12, 2003 03:51 PMfrom IP:Dear Whitney, Good Morning, (again!) My show will run two nights, March 11th and 12th We will also have a morning performance on March 10th for out of town relatives and friends...you are all invited...it's free, this performance only! Love, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 12, 2003 04:06 PMfrom IP:Hey everyone, - Tiffany Posted by: Tiffany on January 12, 2003 11:17 PMfrom IP:Good morning Grandma! This has to be short; my dog has already waited long. I just have to say, Sherrlyn, you've suffered enough! Go to school if it's possible and if it takes you closer to what you want to do. And I agree with your advice to Kelli. Also, great advice to Paul on the sales and the agent issues. I was especially interested in what you had to say about your personal sales experience. Doggy OUT NOW. Talk to everyone soon, God willing. Posted by: Whitney on January 12, 2003 11:19 PMfrom IP:Grandma, Your show sounds terrific! The song that you and Granpa Elliot sing is a good one! can't wait to here how is goes on opening night!! Take care. Love lots! Whitney, Thank you for your advice on drawing a self portrait, I will start with the eyes! ;) Ms. G, My teacher said to use a mirror which is a good idea to look at yourself while drawing. I will be looking, looking, looking, we will be doing still life soon!! thanks so much! Sherrlyn, Thank you for you advice also, you asked what a do for fun!! lol well.....basically the usual teenage things...I do stuff with friends like going to the movies..ect. friends are very important in highschool and you feed off each others strengths alot of times, we all need that support...others things I do umm..driving, and all those after school football and basketball games!! and of course shopping, all that good stuff!! then there is studying studying studying which isn't all that much fun, but what Evelyn said (thanks Evelyn) all that matters is that you learn something, and I know thats true! I like school I just hate the feeling of being overwhelmed, and not having control over how im graded by my teachers. Maybe I have the "Need to Please" attitude in me! Love to all Paul, You are still my favorite actor, Paul. And, I am not angry anymore. Just one of those days. Sara Posted by: Sara on January 13, 2003 07:14 AMfrom IP:Grandma, I'm blushing, but thank you for the compliment and naturally, I will return the compliment: both you and your husband are beautiful yourselves and why would we need chaperones??? I don't think that this is a role you should see yourself in. By the way, does Grandpa Elliot ever look at this site? Thanks for the plot summary of your show, very interesting. And are you aware that you've made quite a few people blush lately ..... :-)))) Tim, a friend of mine asked me "to thank the person whom I had gotten the Dust/cleaning and Children of the 40s - the 70s pieces from." She liked it a lot for herself, but also specifically because the Children of the 40s - 70s piece gave her a text that she had been looking for for quite a while for her English High School class in Austria without finding anything suitable. You made her day!!! So here's her THANK YOU! Whitney, I'm glad you liked my Medievalist definition and I will keep you posted about the thesis (i.e. when it's done). What kind of a dog do you have? I always have two dogs at my disposal whenever I want canine companionship while going for a walk. They both live in the same house as I, two different apartments, though they act like a couple. Samson is a very gorgeous Huskie, golden retriever mix and Franie (the dog who got drunk on New Year's Eve (hmmm)) is equally gorgeous, she's a golden retriever, black lab mix. My cat (naturally the most gorgeous of the lot, black, very petit with startling green eyes) is mad at me today, since I dared take down the Christmas tree (finally found the time to do that...). She obviously has a fixation or fetish for the lights, weird! How was the Chinese buffett (is that where you wanted to go???) I hope everyone had a fantastic day and will have another one tomorrow! Posted by: Evelyn on January 13, 2003 08:31 AMfrom IP:Evelyn, you are so very welcome. I was just passing on something I found amusing and interesting. Hey Evelyn. Buffet was great. My little sister went with me. My dog is a mutt: half beagle and half generic hound. He looks like a fox hound. Your pets sound nice. I'll send you a picture of Worhy when I get a chance. We can exchange pet pictures! Kelli, you'll do fine. And when you do the still life just remember that you can pick a section of it; you don't have to draw the whole thing. Move around if you can and find an angle that interests you. It's 1:00 am so this has to be short. I've been working on the presentation for class tomorrow, but I have more to do in the morning, so I'd better get some sleep! Goodnight Grandma! Posted by: Whitney on January 13, 2003 01:02 PMfrom IP:One more thing... Dear, dear, dear Tim, You made my day, my night, etc., with your kind remarks! I am very flattered, and oh, I think I am blushing! Thank you! The saying goes, everyone needs help sometime, and that pertains to life and to looks! Case in point: With your knowledge of hair and makeup, you would appreciate this: I always apply my makeup after I dress, first thing in the morning...I want to look my best even when taking out the garbage, in case a talent agent is lurking in the bushes!!! Love you madly, Grandma Posted by: GRANDMA MILDRED on January 13, 2003 03:12 PMfrom IP:You're more than welcome..but you are what you are. And your procedure is a wise one. You just never know who'll be standing outside your door. Tim Posted by: Tim Hord on January 13, 2003 06:59 PMfrom IP:I just started reading the book on Pilates and the intro revealed the history of its origins. Joseph Pilates sounds like an amazing man! Someone should do a movie about him. Tim, your "dildo" post didn't read negatively to me, but after reading your second post I can see why you were afraid. Better safe than sorry. The picture I posted is from a few years ago (I'm a bit bigger right now), but I wanted a happy picture of me drinking a good beer. I had my hair highlighted right before I left for this DC / NYC roadtrip (the picture is from the trip) and I felt my hairdresser screwed it up so badly that I never went back to her salon. Truth be , I can't really afford good haircuts. If you want to see what I look like now, visit my Yahoo profile. Posted by: Whitney on January 13, 2003 10:32 PMfrom IP:Peter,Peter, Peter...ADF.. Welcome back! Sure missed your posts. Glad to hear you were having a really big holiday. It sounded like a alot of fun. It was really BIG of you to share it. Okay, Okay I'll stop on the big stuff. Do you know of a internet site where I could get a glimps of your interesting trip? I hope your back is feeling better. Did anyone find out anymore about the emul oil? The kids and I love the crocodile hunter. I keep telling my husband that he reminds me of him and that were going to put him in khakis for the next Halloween party. I just have to find him a BIG stuffed crock.LOL Sorry Peter I couldn't resist. Adopted Granny Mildred, I'm going to wish you a Happy Birthday now. Just in case I'm not posting on the 20th:) Pilates, I do pilates and would recommend it. Evelyn, Thank you for your concern on my cold. I'm on the up and up. My son is sick now. I had to bring him home from school because he couldn't breath and needed his breathing machine. He seems a bit chipper now. Hey how's your cold? You have been battling it for sometime now. I hope you kick it's butt. Speaking of butt kicks. I'm ready for mine now. Your thesis sounds right up my alley. I'm so interested! You don't suppose I could take a peak at it? Kelly I hope the overwelming feeling in school subside as you start to settle in. Hang in there. Whitney, How's that thesis doing? What did you say it's on?. Hey what's that Life Burning Desire Tape everyone is talking about? I feel so out of touch since I missed so many posts. Michelle, your one up on me with the Coopers Ale. I haven't tried it yet.I rather lean towards the stout. I have to try Coopers some day. Geeezzz. Who am I suppose to be kicking now? Let me know if I've left any kicks out.Am I suppose to be kicking you Peter? Tim, Evelyn,Whit, here's your kick Paul, I'm glad your not going to lower yourself to their level. It's smart of you not to do the, if you can't beat them, then join them attitude. SUZ Posted by: Susan D on January 14, 2003 02:12 AMfrom IP:Suz, I'm afraid I'm out of the loop on the tape too. I seem to recall some mention of it but the memory is vague. the answer may be hidden in this thread. It's getting so long (hint, hint) that I have to scroll so long to get to the bottom of it (hint, hint) that I've never tried to find the info. Let me know if you find out. Evelyn's the one doing the thesis and it does sound very interesting. I did one, but it's shamefully short. It's on my website if you want to read it. Some of the images are gone. I apologize to anyone that goes there. To get the missing pictures, I have to get a book on inter-library loan and I just haven't gotten around to it. I'm watching "The Interview". It was done in Australia, I believe. I can't help, but watch this and wonder if Paul should have had a role. Yes! Yes!!!! Did I say "good morning" to Grandma? I hope everyone's having a wonderful day. I just did 20 minutes of aerobic activity and I feel great! Got to walk the doggy. Posted by: Whitney on January 14, 2003 04:22 AMfrom IP:Whit, do you think Paul will bless us with a new thread? I gave him two really hard shin kicks. I'm feeling a bit to lazy to go through the threads myself. So who ever wrote the post about Lifes Burning Desire could you please fill us in. Whit, I'll read your paper! I just don't know where your web site is. Are you finished watching the Interview? Let me know if it's any good. I'm always looking for a good movie. I was a good girl today and played basketball for my workout. Kick my own butt.:) Paul, how about sow sowing us a new thread? :) SUZ Posted by: Susan D on January 14, 2003 09:19 AMfrom IP:Hey guys... Sadly Tim no kick back but that of the joy it brings to those who watch. Which is pretty bloody nice!!!! Elise dances and plays the piano. Emily does drama classes and plays violin. Erin dances and wants to learn guitar but is a little young yet so we may start her on piano. Elise is thinking about being a hairdresser come model, Emily an archeoligist, Erin a teacher/dancer. They are such great people!! And I credit my wife for that. Mind you I played a part! As for.... "what life would be like if we truly had what we wanted and made us completely satisfied without the hardships." Tim, Tim, Tim! Have you not read what I have spoken of regarding Balance?? In fact my wife and I (congrats on 16 years by the way)have just had a chat about hardship, comfort zones and life lessons from which has sprung a new post. I love the statement God grants you want is needed not what is wanted. Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm, well trust, faith, destiny take your pick - I dont know about any of that but I must trust what is needed, is what is given so I may learn, grow and thus nuture more growth. Maybe along the way I will 'earn' the brownie points so as to get what I want or perhaps I will 'learn' what is needed so as to get what it is I want! Good luck to us all. Posted by: Paul on January 14, 2003 07:18 PMfrom IP:Tim, I like the way you think late at night/early in the morning. Your post cracked me up! :-) Suz, glad you are doing better and I hope your son will do too. My cold still likes me a heck lot more than I do it, but I think it is VERY SLOWLY getting out of my system. It's about time after a month and I soooooo want to get one night of uninterrupted sleep .... Suz, here's the link to Big Things in Australia, that I amused myself with the other night http://members.ozemail.com.au/~arundell/bigthing.htm Re. the question of the video "Life's Burning Desire" I didn't start it, but here's the answer: you just have to aquaint yourself better with this site :-)))) [sorry couldn't resist] but in the section that lists Paul's movies "Click on "Films" on the navigation bar", it is listed there , click again on the movie title, and there are also vidoe clips from that movie on this site. It is about ACE (Australian Choreographic Ensemble, I hope I didn't screw that one up) which Paul founded and he talks about his dance career and also why he founded ACE and it has a lot of things from the rehearsals of the first show (I think) as well as video footage from opening night. Quite interesting!!! how's that? Whitney, I'm a bit jealous (or is it envious???). I'd like to have a Sunday brunch with my sisters too, but if we were to meet half way in the middle, it'd probably have to be somewhere in the Atlantic or perhaps in Greenland ... I guess will have to wait till the summer if and when I get to go home next. Okay, now on to pondering being given what we need/want and the question of what is easy (not an easy question). Back to writing, uhmmmm, the other kind of writing of course. :-) Have a great day all, NOTE: Comments are moderated. You must enter a valid email address--it will not be displayed on the page. Your comment may take a while to show up on the page. Thanks for your patience. Comments on old entries are closed. Please only comment on the current entry. |
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