Paul's Corner

The gig finished last night and I have spent the day on the couch with a fever and feeling fairly ordinary. I want to get better before filming on Tuesday!!

The last month - in fact two months has been rather crazy, so I am not surprised the flu has caught me but I am rather annoyed by it. Any way the great thing about having it, is that I am getting rid of it - it kind of proves that I am healthy - if you know what I mean. (perhaps I am sicker than I thought?)

So things have been very busy and a wee bit stressful. Choreographing the show was great fun and I am sadened to have to close off that creative tap, the good side of that is that one day I shall turn it on full bore once more.

Finally Channel seven decided to offer me the judging gig and I plan to make the most out of it. I think it will be fun which is the real point behind it, entertaining for the audience and raise some money for charity. I am hoping more work will come out of it - as always I need it.

Back to bed for me - it's only 5.30pm but it is where I need to be.

Oh Tim, it was great to hear that you are doing so well. Also that you and your wife have found that spark that was always there but had dimmed. Proud of you buddy.

Nice to hear from you again, Paul.

Sorry you're "under the weather" with the flu, but I'm sure you know how to take care of yourself, and I'm sure Andrea and the girls are giving you lots of TLC. You certainly want to look your best on Tuesday, so take care.

It sounds like you had a good experience with ANNIE, and I'm sure the show will fly because of your knowledge, people skills, training, and love of entertaining. I'm looking forward to reading some of the reviews as I'm sure you are, as well.

Break a leg on Tuesday! The show sounds like lots of fun and will be good exposure for you. Lots of people will see you in front of the camera instead of in the background, so put on your happy face and borrow Peter's purle suit and knock 'em dead!

Remember, each gig you do is one step closer to more work, so turn on your light and let it shine....

Be well.

It's good to see you again, Paul, and what a wonderful note of appreciation for the cast and crew of Annie!
Was this judging gig what you had been offered in London, and had to audition for in AU? Or maybe I was reading between the lines too much,eh? ;)
Hope you enjoy the gig, and here's a mug of whatever hot or a tall glass of whatever cool makes you feel better soon!
hugs and smiles,
Sally

Paul, I hope you shake the flu quickly so that you feel your best on Tuesday and have a blast, if not I'm sure you have way more experience/acting skills than you need to "wing" it :)
Nice tribute for the Annie with the Gun gang, I hope they return their appreciation in kind to you, but also the employers out there.
Okay, this might sound (and taste) sort of strange, but a home remedy for colds/flue in my family: mix 1 table spoon honey and 1 table spoon apple cider vinegar and fill up the cup with boiling water and sip hot, combined with lots of sleep.
Be well!

Hello to everyone here and a belated Happy Birthday to Michelle! Hope it was a good one for you.
Evelyn

Paul, it was a joy to read your post and to get a sense of what was obviously a very positive experience for you. Wishing you lots more opportunities for your creative juices to flow. I hope the new show is a huge success, with plenty of showcasing for all you have to offer. Sorry about the flu but better to have it now than to wake up with it on Tuesday morning! Get well soon.

Love to you,
Mary

Paul sorry to hear you're under the weather. Hope you're back to 100% quickly. How exciting for you to get those creative juices going again, and I have no doubt they'll be out in full force again.

Enjoy doing the show on Tuesday. Let everyone see you shine.

Take care all

Jill

Deltalady you are correct.

So cool Paul!!!! Glad to see they came to their senses on this one!

Jill

Paul, Brilliant!! (better than beer in a bottle!). I'll look forward to seeing you on Tuesday night. The show looks like fun.
I hope you get over the flu thing in time.
Good luck and I hope that you have a ball (no pun intended).

Michelle, spooky isn't it?

Peter

Dear Peter, you lucky Peter, to be able to watch Paul's judging gig tomorrow night! Please take notes, and report back! Oh, to be a fly on the wall.

Paul, I hope this event brings you more opportunities. One never knows who is out there, paying attention. "You have a light in you, boy, let it shine!"

As far as "Annie Get Your Gun" goes, it obviously was an unforgettable experience for you
and the cast.

Congratulations on a job well done, and just remember, "Let's go on with the show, let's go on with the show!"

Shalom and Love,

Gran Mil

Paul,

Congrats on the job ! How long will it run? Is it a special or is a new series? Hope all goes well.

Love to all

Kelly

oops, forgot to tell you HOPE YOU ARE FEELING BETTER !!!

Kelly

Hello All,

Paul good luck today on the show. Break a leg! It's great to hear how you're doing. Keep on jammin with work and networking.

Personally I'm battling an allergy attach this morning. But in any case for upper respitory problems lots of lemon tea with honey and fruit.

Over the week-end my husband and I joined some friend of ours and took a stab at going to Octoberfest on Hollywood beach. It was more like what would happen if French Canadians took over Germany . The vendors were selling from travel packages to the bahamas to French pastry. Somehow getting anything German in Hollywood Florida is virtually impossible. At least the band played authentic german music but also ran into trouble when the lead singer they must of hired just for the occassion knew no traditional German songs so they just played the "Chicken Dance" all night. It went to prove that it doesn't take much to entertain beer drinking Canadians.

Eventually we ditched Octoberfest and found a cosey restaurant that served fajitas.

It was such a pleasure to spend time with our friends Carl and Antonella. They're the ones who lived in Australia for seven years (and loved every minute of it and sometimes wish that they had stayed) and their stories leave us with a good laugh every time.This time Antonella talked about a phenomenon that she encountered every time her and Carl went to a bar. As soon as someone would pick up on Carl's American accent or Antonella's Italian accent comments about how Australia is the "BEST COUNTRY ON EARTH" would fly throught the room. They told us that Australians have this sort of Nationalist way of thinking that their country is the best and that other countries well...cannot even dream of being like Australia.

So curiosity got to me and I asked my neighbor Guy from England next door if his Aussie friends happen to do the same thing and he confirmed what my friends said, "Especially after a few beers" he said laughing. But he also commented that Australia has beaches that are deserted for miles and the population is small (20 million I think Antonella told us one time) so there is enough space that people are not on top of eachother. He also said that it's the BEST place to go one vacation because there are miles and miles of untouched nature and the people are friendly there. I also went to borders and came across an Autralian cook book with pictures featuring some of its quaint areas (looks like Europe) and beautiful landscapes and it stole my heart.

So in comparison to my little corner of the world where the beach is nice but surrounded by condos,and to find a friendly shop keeper is as impossible as turing water into gold...Australia may possible be the best country on earth.

But at least we all agree on the corner that it has one of the best talents on earth...(I see Gradma Millie smiling right now).

Hope everyone is well and Peter please tell us what happens on the show. We all expect a full reoport!

take care all,

Julie, one of the Sunday papers over here had a supplement on Australia yesterday saying much the same thing...there is nowhere else like it. My sister and her husband lived in Sydney for five years and have pined for it ever since they had to leave because of a job transfer back to London. They have now made the decision to go back next year and stay. I enjoyed reading your post. Thanks for sharing the experience.

Hi back to Sally. Hope you are well.

Marge, I hope Princess brings you much joy and companionship.

Peter & Michelle, spooky but nice.

Enjoy the rest of the day folks!

Love to all,
Mary

Millie & Julie, I promise to watch the show diligently and to give a full report.

Paul, remember to brush your teeth, comb your hair and tuck yourself in.

Peter

Good luck tonight Paul!!
Can't wait to hear what Peter has to say.

Mary

Peter I expect a minute by minute commentary on the show - especially covering all Paul's brillant moments (which will be constantly)!

Paul - good luck

Jill

Thanks for the good wishes guys. There are a couple of little contractual issues that have surfaced which will hopefully be ironed out before tonight and then Peter will be able to review my performance and let you all know how it went.

I have done live to air before and in fact the largest audience ever was when I danced live on Good Morning America with a viewing audience of over 45 million people!!!

The judging is a small (but important) part of the show so as far as pressure goes it is really on the contestants - the poor things! I plan to be nice tonight and then get nasty later lolololol!! Actually it is all for fun and charity (and the network of course) so keeping that in mind I hope to keep my part fun, light and entertaining other then that I have absolutely no idea of what I will do or say. Spontenaiety come over here and sit on my knee! (Miss spelling can come over too!)

KNOCK EM DEAD , PAUL!!

Glad you are feeling better. I have a satelite, just wish I could figure out how to get Aulstralian TV!! I will be with you in thought and prayer. Good luck!

Kelly

Man, I'm envious of Peter ... looking forward to your report :)

Paul, what would you do with spontaneity for? S/he’d only block your view and what good would that do :) You strike me as very in touch with your feelings and thus also have spontaneity all in you. Whatever you wish to say, will come to you when you need it. Well, I hope you have a blast, great audience and great review and all the other good stuff. After Peter’s take, it would be fantastic to hear your version of the evening as well, and holy shit, 45 million viewing audience??? That would be more than enough to make me freeze up—you can do it!!! Miss spelling over to you, no way!! Your spelling is so adorable … ups, we aren’t supposed to comment on that …

Mary, I’ll try to answer your email soon, I’m super busy and mega-stressed and big-time frustrated and incredibly tired, but I’m not going to give up and find a way out of this and through this, somehow, I just wished I knew how.

Julie, my take on Oktoberfest is, that you might have just been rather lucky not to have found too much of it there. I successfully managed to avoid going to the one nearby that my students wanted to go to, well, they still could have gone… Traditional German music … slight shudder :(

Love to everyone.

Paul,

I am so happy for you. You see I've mentioned your hard work will be paid off. Of course sooner is the better.

Keep up the good work !

Best Wishes

Good Morning All,

Well, I'm sick as a dog and stuck at home today. The October virus, as I call it (I get this every year around October) has me cornered once again. I'm at stuck home studying for my final exam anyway so its no loss I guess.

But I wanted to come on the corner this morning to remind Peter of his...ahem...duty to give us a detailed report of Paul's judging on Dancing with the Stars which he should be watching...about now I think.

Peter, have you ever thought that one day you would be in such great demand by so many women at once?

Look, he's blushing, he's blushing!

Good to hear from you Mary and Evelyn and Grandma Millie, hope to hear from you soon.

take care all,

Paul I just watched you on Dancing with the stars and you were wonderful, you said what you meant without getting too nasty.

I enjoyed watching Matt and his partner dance and I think it took Pauline a LOT of stamina and guts to get up on stage and dance particularly when you have limited preparation time.

I liked your line about you dont want to dance those steps anyway eg regards to Strictly Ballroom :-).

But yeah I was so happy to see you up there knowing that you deserve to be there.

Wish everyone else would be able to see it...

Brilliant, Paul.

You still have that wonderful charisma that charmed us all. Nice to "see" you again.

Hey, I don't supose anyone taped it? I wuld gladly pay for a copy and the shipping to the us!
Or I wonder if it is downloadable over the internet?

Kelly

Kelly,

Australia and most European countries use a different format when it comes to VCR's and computers, so even if someone taped the show, it would have to be converted to our region's format.

Looks like we're out of luck unless someone has a machine that makes copies from one fomat to the other.

I know it's a bit early for Peter to check in but I just wanted to enjoy the buzz! Mawghan & Robyn, thanks for the bulletins. What we need now is the full, unabridged, uncensored and much anticipated report by he who is in demand. Over to you, Peter. (Does this occasion warrant the purle suit I wonder??)

Evelyn, hang in there. I'm sending you lots of de-stressing, relaxing and soothing thoughts. Take care.

Love to Paul & all,
Mary

OK folks. Here it is through my eyes.

Prior to the show, I wondered how the producers would fill in the 90 minute timeslot and maintain the viewer's attention for the full time. As it turned out, I would say that the show was a pleasant surprise and should be quite a success. I enjoyed it very much.

The format of the show is basically that a group of celebrities from various backgrounds such as TV, sports and even a politician, were asked to prepare over several weeks with a total of 60 hours (is that correct, Paul?) tuition from a partner who is an accomplished professional dancer. The pairs then perform live on the show where they are judged by a panel of 4 people, each with a background of some kind in dance.

It was very interesting watching the "non-dancers" prepare with the professionals.
There were lots of funny moments.
The actual performances ranged from impressive, given the circumstances, to fairly ordinary.
In all, it was good fun and certainly entertaining to watch.

There were two sports people involved. One was James Tomkins, a 3 time Olympic gold medallist in rowing, and the other, Matt Shirvington, a sprinter who a couple of years ago held the title of "fastest white man in the world".
He looked very focussed in his performance.
I suppose that focussing is what athletes do, mostly.
It was very interesting watching the diverse approaches, but I would say that all took to it in a light hearted fashion, albiet rather highly focussed, in some cases.
I guess that nobody wants to look like a goose.

Now, to Paul. Paul always looked comfortable.
He's a natural for this and I feel that he will only go from strength to strength as the show settles in.
I thought that the first intro to Paul appeared to leave him short of time and and a little rushed, but everything soon found it's correct pace.
Paul was certainly the most entertaining of the judges, delivering a number of funny, light hearted comments that really kept the momentum going.
Paul appeared to be very natural, open and accessible.
Friendly, supportive humour is also apparently his forte, as is the ability to deliver it via his natural personality.
Yes, I know I've said "natural" three times, but that's how it appears. There's no better word to use.
Paul projected his voice better that any of the other judges and was easy to listen to.
I would say that Paul's comments were always appropriate and there was a mixture of content in his comments which kept it interesting.
Paul's screen presence and appeal were obvious, and I feel that this is a good "showcase" for the public and the industry to re-aquaint themselves with his talent.
The whole show was a lot of fun. Everyone was having fun, from the contestants, to the professionals, the judges, certainly the audience, and even the compere. Well done.

That's my unbiased view. If it were any different, then I would say so.
Paul, well done. Your performance was a credit to the person that you are.

And now for the judging. For Paul's performance last night, I award you.....what's that?....We'll have that when we return right after this break.

Peter

Congratulations Paul, you obviously did yourself proud. Well done!! For some reason, I have a very good feeling about this for you. It sounds like a great opportunity for your personality and ease in front of the camera to shine and for you to get the exposure you deserve. The other version up here really captured people's interest and held it right through to the very last show. So much so that there will surely be another run of it and who knows, maybe the chance of exposure up this way will come around again for you? For now, good luck with the rest of these shows. I'll be wishing you the best.

Peter, reading your words was the next best thing to seeing the show myself. Thanks for being the eyes and ears of PC and for giving such a clear and detailed account. Your description of Paul's performance was vivid and heartwarming to read. Nice one.

Mary

Bravo Peter!

Bravo!

You certainly know how to pull a report together. I enjoyed your post so much. Many Thanks you sweet man...**Big kiss on the cheek**

Boy, what we are missing in America! This show sounds pretty fun and to see Paul doing his thing, being his lighthearted and cool self would be so..well so great (I'm sure Grandma Millie would agree I wonder where she is these days).

Well, I have to go back and study bones now and then prepare to see the debate tonight.

Luv to all,

Glad for your success Paul. May it give you lots of exposure to get lots more jobs of your choice.

Hello to everyone and ,of course, to Grandma Mill.

Joan DeRosa

One bit of trivia regarding "Dancing With The Stars":
The hostess on the show is Sonia Kruger.
I'm not totally sure, but I think she played Tina Sparkle in Strictly Ballroom.

Paul might be enjoying a well earned beer today, after his successful "performance" last night.

Peter

Peter, thank you for the critique of Paul's show!

It was beautifully written, and with all your skills, you could also add critic extraordinare!

Never mind my being a fly on the wall. It was like being there in person!

Yes, Sonia Kruger did play Tina Sparkle in SB. Apparently she is still in the industry, for I've read about her in the Aussie papers, but I'm having a MM and can't remember where or when!

Paul, you obviously were a standout, but we knew that going in! Congratulations, I predict that this gig will be the start of something big!

Joan, good to hear from you. It's quiet in Hurricane Haven, and hope it stays that way!

Last night I was celebrating the 10th year of my monthly video concert, "The Sights and Sounds of Music", and 20 minutes into the show, there was a loud POP and the screen went dark, although the sound remained on. It seems that the special bulb in the overhead projector finally blew, after 10 years. Ironic, right? I hope it wasn't some kind of omen!

I had to dismiss my lovely and very disappointed audience, but will try again on Thursday night, if the problem can be fixed in time.

During FIF, I hope to show my chickies one of these programs, if there is time, (and the bulb problem fixed!)

Shalom and Love,

Gran Mil

Peter, great review although I am still awaiting my score!

Channel seven today tonight did a story on my which I am not sure I liked or not - being in the media is fraught with danger at times!

Glad you liked the show - did you?

It rated exceptionally high and channel seven boffins are very happy with it. So here is to the future!

When Sonia Kruger came out before Daryl Somers (he hosted Hey Hey its Saturday) I knew it was Tina who was also in SB. My sister TRIED to say that she was Liz in the movie but I proved her wrong which wasn't hard since I've been a fan of SB for such a long time....

Congratulations, Paul.

And thank you, Peter, for your excellent review. It sounds like everyone had a lot of fun, and of course, we knew Paul would get good reviews. I wounder if the show would ever catch on here in America? Don't laugh - remember Dance Fever?

Continued good luck, Paul. This may just be that little kick-start for your career that you were waiting for. Enjoy!

Hi out to everyone in the Corner.

Be well.

Thanks for the review Peter, althought I woulda loved to have seen it in person, your review was perfect.

Congrats Paul!!!!! Sounds like you're showing them what we all knew from the start - you're the best!

Take care all

Jill

Paul, sounds like the new show is lots of fun. Peter thanks for your breakdown. You give a very clear picture of a show I'm sad I have to miss. I hope eveyone is well.
If anyone has tried my email links lately, I'm not posting the correct addy because I am paranoid about being index by spam collectors. If you'd like to contact me just drop a note in your post and I will get right to you. Sorry for the trouble.
Peace, Inn

Wow, this is all so good....Paul as a celeb judge; Peter's summary of the show. It's great. Congratulations, Paul! The big question for me is will this show ever make to U.S. TV? We have so many goofy reality shows that it would be great to have one on dancing. Also, it would be great for Paul to have exposure to American audiences again. I'm keeping my fingers crossed. Jennifer

Paul,
You know I'm not in the business of giving scores.

This bit of exposure gives the public a view of PM the person, rather than a character that you are portraying. It's very good, Paul.
It's good for you and it's entertaining for the viewing public.

Yes, I really, genuinely and thoroughly enjoyed the show. So did Sonia. She wasn't too sold on the concept prior to the show, but she rapidly changed her mind and we watched it right through to the finish. And it was great.
I'm fairly (objectively) critical regarding what I watch, simply because I have so little free time, so I have to make the best of it.

I think that part of the enjoyment of the show is that we, as non-dancers, can imagine ourselves in that situation.
It's also fun watching the various "personalities", and seeing their actual personalities come through in the preparation and performance.
I particularly found this interesting with the sports people, as if you didn't notice.

As for your part, I'd go as far as to say that there would be an important element missing were you not included.
You're recognised as an important part of that particular bit of Aussie culture, like it or not.
Personally, I think you should like it, simply because the fans associate you fondly with that aspect of entertainment, even if it's not all that you are.

Well done Paul. Your performance was great, and watching how you settled in and smoothed as the show progressed, you will go from strength to strength.

I didn't see that bit on Today Tonight.
What was the thrust of it?

Peter

Thanks, Peter! I dearly wish we could have seen Paul rather than the political debate that saturated our airwaves. By the way, I read that your PM is likely to get re-elected? For some reason I thought he was unpopular, but then again I live in the States and NOTHING about politics makes any sense. As you can tell, the situation's getting me down.

Paul, I'm happy the show went well for you and that you enjoyed it. Coopers all around! Actually, I've recently been drinking Old Peculier with my neighbor (and yes, I think that is the correct spelling). Ever tried it?

One other thing, I'd like to ask all of you to send lots of good energy to my nephew, Bryan, who's stationed near Fallujah. He has a wife and two babies back home living with my brother and sister-in-law. They live with such worry, I don't know how they get on with it. He's been told he'll be there a year at the very least. And for what? (My opinion.)

Peace,
Michelle

Peter, the thrust of the story was how my career has floundered over the last few years and how this gig has put me back on track and in the fast lane.

I guess part of it is true although they did neglect to mention what I have been up to over the last year. It is self serving to them in that they are making out that the show has saved or will save my flagging career - I didnt know it was flagging - and they forgot to to mention that I am in their own TV mini series due to go to air in November.

Yes being an actor is always tough so I do hope that having my face on the TV once a week will bring me to the attention of directors, producers and casting directors. I hope that channel seven will recognize my talents and put me in my own series, Tv show or pick up my Beer Show series (which I plan to pitch to them real soon!!)

But I have been here and done this before and as those of you who have journeyed with me over the last few years will know - what lies around the next corner is any ones guess.

Oops...that's the story I posted to the front page, isn't it?

It was just a gloss-over, not so bad. I think they just want their "angle". It sure is fun to have to keep up with news articles!

Paul,
I read the article that Cat posted.
The article reads OK. It just says that you're willing to have a go and do whatever it takes.
Anyway, that's what I take from it.

Regarding the Today Tonight story, the producers may need to flex their egos after tasting the success of "Dancing with the Stars".
A little pathetic really, but not unexpected.

I hope your talents are recognised too.

Peter

More news re "Dancing with the Stars":

I just heard on the radio that the viewing ratings numbers were just under 2,000,000.
That's an exceptional TV audience for Australia.
Our population is around 20 million.

Peter

Dear Paul,

The concept of "Dancing With The Stars" has not reached the U.S. yet, but I'll wager it won't take long, after the success in Australia.

We are bombarded with those stupid reality shows,
which does not appeal to a large segment of the American viewing public, like us seniors.

The love of dancing is so universal, and so many people secretly wish they could be another Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Paul Mercurio and Tara Morice, a reality show like this should be a hit here in the U.S., and continue to gain viewers in Australia!

The latest new movie, "Shall We Dance", the remake of the Japanese hit, has already had sneak previews here in the U.S.

It stars Richard Gere, Susan Sarandon, and Jennifer Lopez, a hot cast that will bring in the crowds!

It is bound to get people of all ages interested in dancing again, just as "Strictly Ballroom" did a decade ago!

Paul, the best is yet to come for you!

Shalom and Love,

Gran Mil

Dear Michelle,

Ellie and I didn't know anyone personally that is serving in Iraq, but now we do.... your nephew Bryan.

We shall add our prayers for his safety, and for all those young men and women, serving so bravely, and for their families at home.

Ellie and I share your opinion.

Shalom (peace) and Love,

Gran Mil

Thank you, Mil and Ellie! I appreciate your concern more than you know.

Sorry for going off topic for a bit, it's just that this situation was weighing heavy on my mind yesterday.

Back to the show! By the way, I thought the article was poorly written. Lots of insinuation but few details. An example of someone trying to conjure an image of Paul to sell their story, not worrying in the least that what they omit may be crucial in giving the reader an ACCURATE account of Paul and his life. Fluffy. But it's exposure I suppose. I just wish they'd get it right.

Okay, maybe I'm still feeling a little sensitive about things.

Love & stuff,
Michelle

Almost two million viewers sounds incredible! I think the point Peter made about people getting the chance to view Paul as himself rather than as a character on this occasion is a really good one. To come across simply as someone with TV charisma leaves the possibility open for whatever opportunities come along. Good luck with all of this Paul. I really hope this leads to on to other wonderful things for you. The beer show sounds great!

Michelle, I'll be sending lots of positive energy and thoughts to Bryan and praying for his safe return. I can't imagine what it must feel like to have a loved one in that position. Love to you.

Millie, I hope you manage to get the show off the ground tonight. Good luck!

Hi and love to everyone out there tonight.

Mary

Sounds like the show was a hit. Glad to hear it! I too think it's great that people get to see you as Paul, not a character you're playing. I too hope this leads down a path of more oppertunities (okay my spelling is bad too! and I'm and english teacher!)

Personally Paul, I don't know how you handle seeing yourself on tv or on any screen. I just taped a small book talk that was shown to the students at our school (almost 900). It was only 4 minutes long, but I couldn't even stomach watching myself do that long! And then to have people talk to me about what they thought of it! Very unnerving. Oh well, I guess that's why I teach and not act!

Take care all

Jill

Jill, many professional actors and actresses do not like to watch themselves on the screen!

They have the best makeup artists, costume designers and directors, and still they cringe, but they don't mind that we, the public, pay for the pleasure of seeing them instead!

Video tape is not kind. It makes people look heavier, sometimes distorts the features, etc., and that is surely a reason to cringe for us common folk!

The projector bulb was replaced yesterday in time for my "Sights and Sounds of Music" last night. It made such a difference. The colors were brilliant in every technicolor scene, and the black and whites were sharp! When I show "Strictly Ballroom" again, it should be better than ever (if that is possible.)

The audience was very complimentary, and one couple gave me two CDs of Rod Stewart's tribute to the music of our era, called "The Great American Songbook" Volumes I, It Had To Be You and Volume II, As Time Goes By. I played some selections while the audience was being seated, and it was beautiful and nostalgic. I might re-create this night at FIF.

Shalom and Peace,

Gran Mil

Grandma Mil, You're so right re actors and others often not wanting to watch themselves on screen, and, yes, Jill, I know exactly what you mean about being taped during a presentation and then watching yourself. I usually end up saying (to myself), Oh My God, did I really say "Hum" THAT many times! Just imagine how George W. Bush must feel looking at the tape of himself during the first debate!! :-) Best to all, Jennifer in California

Paul,
YOu know what they say about the flu or a cold, chicken soup, and as much as most of us hate to say you were right to our mothers, this really does work. Good luck with being a judge, it's not easy telling people what you thought they did wrong or right, they can get a little upset with you, so good luck and have fun.

Hi guys,

Been away for a while, as it turns out, for similar reasons to Paul's ... in my case it has been allergies that had me feeling so miserable and mimicked the flu symptoms that it had me fooled for a while. Then my son, Jonathan, came down with the real flu, which kept him out of school for the whole week. He said jokingly that he must be sure to thank the student on the school bus who was kind enough to share the flu germs with him. LOL With the shortages of vaccines now it is more important than ever to try not to spread the germs, so the school has been encouraging parents to keep the kids home if they are sick.

PAUL,
So happy to hear that Annie Get Your Gun premiered. Sorry you could not be there due to the flu. Hope you are feeling much better now, after getting plenty of rest, as Peter and the other PCers so wisely advised. :-) I'm thrilled for you to hear about the success of your appearance in Dancing with the Stars! Can't say I am surprised you did so well. When people get to see the "Real Paul" they cannot help but to respond to your personality and the positive vibes you send out. :-)

About the reporting on the media, try not to get upset about it because, unfortunately, there is not much celebrities can do to control that. Hopefully people will realize that facts can be omitted and/or manipulated. I learned early on to take everything I read with a grain of salt and to seek confirmation from reliable sources. When I was a teen I had the good fortune to meet my very favorite singer, a Spaniard -- no, not Julio Iglesias (he's too bland for my taste) -- Raphael (he puts more of himself in his performances). Anyway, I got to meet him after a performance at Madison Square Garden thanks, in great part, to the help of a friend of my mother's who was a newspaper editor. He wrote a story about it, but when I read it there were so many embelishments in the story that the only true facts were my name and the fact that I had met Raphael! He described me as crying from the emotion, my being one step away from being in a wheelchair, and a whole pack of other stuff -- which was totally false -- it made me look like such a silly girl, which I really wasn't!. When I asked him why he had distorted the facts so much he said it was a better read. Since then I always wonder if what I'm reading in a newspaper or magazine has been altered to make a "better read."

FLU REMEDY:
Noticed some flu remedies posted, so I figure I will post our family's favorite one ... because it works, especially for the flu with aching muscles. Don't know if you have green plantains in Australia, but we brew a tea made with the peel and some cinnamon, sweetened with some honey. By brewing the tea I mean roiling boil the peel to extract the curative juices, so let it go on for about 7 minutes after it starts to boil. Sometimes I add some ginger to the mix also. Tastes really good!

GRANDMA MIL,
Or should I say Grandma Les? (You have a light in you boy ... let it shine!) I loved your quoting Les to encourage Paul. I feel that's why the movie is so great ... it deals with a subject that we all must deal with ... sticking to our principles and daring to be ourselves.

Now I must say, Grandma Mil, that you violated the first rule of a show presenter while making use of a projector -- "Always have a spare bulb at the ready" -- Been there, done that. LOL After the first time it happened to me, I always made a point to have a spare bulb.

MICHELLE,
Prayers are on the way for Bryan and his family. I don't have relatives in the war, but dear friends of mine have had brothers and sons there, so I have worried for them the whole time they were there. My best friend's brother was both in Afghanistan and in Iraq. He is also a veteran of the first Gulf war.

PETER,
Thanks so much for describing the show for us ... you are very sweet to do that for us and it was the next best thing to being there! :-)

NIKI,
Doctors agree with our moms about the benefits of chicken soup for cold symptoms. They have studied it and they feel that the combination of the hot soup, spices, etc. promotes clearing of the nasal and bronchial passages, for one thing. The tasty brew makes us feel better, and our tummies sure appreciate it. But, best of all, when it is served with plenty of TLC it warms our souls, too! :-)

CAT,
Thanks so much for keeping us informed on the articles, both here on the web site and on the mailing list. Your generosity and dedication are truly appreciated. :-)

A big hug to everyone in the corner. I just realized how long this post is! One of you should have interrupted me while I was rambling! LOL

Nertha

Paul,

I am so happy because I fell you are with more hope and enthusiam. This show with the celebrities will be very joy, I am sure. Congratulations!
Here in Brasil, during two weeks, in the state I live (Santa Satarina), in city "Blumenau" have a "Ocktoberfest", the 2º bigger beer's party in the world, because in the past, many Germans come in to Brasil.
You are with flu? I hope you heal of this flu.
Paul, I want to talk to you: I believe that all the people with much talent how you have a big mission. Maybe you don't see, but I am sure your work into in heart and mind and transform the life of the many people. Your talent do the peolpe to soar above your spirit. Paul, never be unhappy, because you are a big star!
Today many people think that a star is someone than do a film with much milions. But a true star is someone than change the life of the persons forever how you!
Kisses sweet boy!

Caroline

Michelle,
I'm sending what humble positive energies I have to Bryan, with hope for a safe and prompt return home.
For most people, being in a situation such as his is inconcievable. The emotions are unimaginable.
Also wishing you much peace. Regards.

Mary,
I was driving to work this Sunday morning at 5:30am, with feeling that much is good in the world. The day was new, cool and fresh. I think that today is a good day to be alive in the world.
As I got closer to my client's site, The Cranberries' "Dreams" came on the radio. It really did set me up for the day.
...."Totally amazing mind,
So understanding and so kind"....
Oh what a dream to aspire to!

For some wonderful reason, my "body" has, (just a little bit) started to let go of whatever it believes it must hold onto. This is very good.

I hope you are well, Mary.

To all those who responded to my "report" of Paul's debut in "Dancing with the Stars", I thank you for your kind and positive words.

Paul, just a couple of days to show No. 2!
I think you must have followed my special advice re. brushing your teeth and combing your hair. It was obvious that you had. Unfortunately, you were sitting down behind a desk, so I couldn't tell if you had tucked your shirt in properly.
I'll just have to trust you with that one.
I hope that all goes well. I'm sure that it will.

Cheers to all, and have a great weekend.
back to work now for me.

Peter

Peter, when I read your post I almost felt like I had been there with you for those wonderful moments. I'm sure I picked up an echo of what you felt! An early summer morning in your part of the world sounds like a good place to be. I believe times like these are given to us as an incentive to keep going forward. I think they are also glimpses of the joy that is at the centre of who we are and where we come from. I hope the physical feelings of harmony continue to grow for you and that you will feel the benefits from them.

I love those words from Dreams! As for the aspiration in them - I think you're well on your way Peter. I hope this lovely morning will set the mood for the week ahead for you. Love to you.

Hi Caroline. I thought your words about Paul were very true.

Love to everyone in PC,
Mary

Hi y'all!
Haven't posted since hurricane days, but read every day--gotta second (or third) Caroline's comments...Paul HAS changed lives, and I don't know how to get that across to him, because appreciation doesn't fill bank accounts, but if it did...he'd be filthy rich!
Great to hear about the shows and I gotta give a big hand to Cat as well..
BTW...Son, 22, and friends want to go as the Ramones to Halloween parties this year...odd coincidence, eh?
Sending many prayerful thoughts for Bryan's safe return as well...

Nertha, I, too, love that particular quote from Les Kendall (among others) from Strictly Ballroom. It was so Paul!

Re: The slide projector bulb. This projector that blew its bulb was an overhead VHS and DVD projector, which hangs from the ceiling of our multimedia room.

It can only be reached with a large ladder, and put up and taken down by a technician.

Now the images are so crisp with the new bulb that, as I stated before, "Strictly Ballroom" will really shine when I show it for FIF! The images are projected on a huge 9ft screen! Can't you just visualize those closeups of you-know-who????

Paul, good luck on your next gig. I read that John Howard won the Australian elections because the economy in Australia is booming. That should be a good omen for everyone, including the show biz folks and the business people like Peter!

We'll be waiting for your next critique, Peter. I am sure that Paul will have his hair combed, and will flash that smile that drives the old ladies CRAZY!

Shalom and Love,

Gran Mil

P.M.
Excuse me for being so behind but,I just found out about this little post area because I just saw "Strictly Balroom" (wich was absolutely wondeful)(I know im 12 years late, but it came out when I was two so I have an excuse) . I didnt know who Baz L. was until I saw "Romeo and Juliet" and "Moulin Rouge" let alone know he directed Striclty Balroom. When I saw the cover I thought you were spanish. my mouth dropped when I heard the accent. Anyway, im sorry to completely change what the subject is about but, from what I know in my mind you havent aged a bit. Right now im picturing the ending latin dance scene when you slide out on the floor (my favorate scene). What do you look like now?
Oh!! and from what I last read you have the flu, as of today (oct 10) so do I. I know how you feel or felt--hoping you got better. ok well I have some of your post to read.....actually all of them--you write to much ;)(only joking).
love lizee

Hey all,

Just checking in.

Lizzie, welcome !! Paul is a more distinguished, more mature, more handsome man now than in SB (stricktly ballroom). Or so WE all think. But I can only go by the "first Look" series on HBO about his part in Will Smith's movie "IROBOT" Paul was the "robot movement consultant" on the film and they interviewed him for the documentary. He was not the same Paul as Strickly Ballroom, but very nicely aged and preserved !! I have watched my hubby of 15 years go from sexy 21 year old bodybuilder to even sexier, larger, balder, heavier 41 year old, (they are like wine, they get better with age). Paul is still very handsome and striking, well I think so anyway. WELCOME TO THE FAMILY !

Paul. do you feel better? Hope the kids and Andrea didn't get it as well. We have a problem with flu shots in the states and only high risk people can get them. Darn. Hope all is well.

Tim, are you still out there????? how are you?

Has anyone heard from Diane??

I am feeling better spiritually, and physically and emotionally. I have not gone to ANY doctor in 2 weeks and it feels like freedom!!!! I am done going unless I feel like I am unable to function at all. Feels like I am free. My spirits are up and I feel good with my family and my marraige. (my hubby is trying to be more affectionate, to try to give me some happiness) Work is work. I actually fave let go a little there and it seems to be working, not freaking out about stuff and relaxing a little and if things dont go perfect, they just dont go perfect. I am trying relaly hard not to stress about things, about anything. I try not to raise my voice when I am frustrated, and I see a difference, staying calm. I feel like I am coming back to what I used to be, I actually think I may go on a diet, well watching what I eat anyway, smaller portionis. not eating at night, no snacks, stuff like that. I think that means I am caring about myself again. I told Tom I was skipping Monday night football tommorrow night at the bar as I want to get enough sleep. Cant believe I am giving up football bingo, but there it is ! Enough rambling.

Hey Girl !! to Mil, Sally, Marge, Diane, Lyn , Mary, Delta lady, Evelyn, Nertha, Jill , Jennifer.

Hey guy ! to Paul, Tim, Peter

Love to you all,,,, XOXOXOXXOXOXOXOXXO

KELLY

From Lizzie to Kelly
Its seems you and your hubby have a great relationship and I just wanted to tell you not to let that die. I really dont know how your relationship is and im not telling you what to do because I have no idea about marriage but its just a suggestion because my parents have been apart since I was seven (im now 14)they were drawn away from eachother by hate, anger and lust. And im not going to get into it but just tell your husband how much you love him everyday. And let your kids know how much you love them too.
Anyway, thanks for the great welcome and ill keep in touch
Till next time
love lizee

To all who reads this
Right now where I live (U.S./Florida) its 9:57pm and tomorrow wich is the 11th of Oct. is Monday and school starts at 7:30am.......and I am very involved with my school. Im in chorus wich the name is Dimension-20 and I have rehearsal from 5:00 to 7:30 but before that I have volleyball pratcie from 2:45 to 5:oopm. Thats not the end,from rehearsal I got to my church for Bible study and to top it all off I have the flu so tomorrow is a very very busy day and I need my beauty sleep so I shall write tomorrow....that is if I have enough energy to do soo. Actually if my mom lets me.
good night
"never go to bed angry,stay up and fight"
--anonymous
love always lizee

Hi all.

Paul, Congrats. It's been awhile. I didn't even know about Annie get your gun. How awesome is that?! I did hear about the judging event. That is all positive news. I'm extremely proud of your accomplishments, and as you said you never know what's around the corner but the more you participate in life the more choices you'll have. You've been finding a lot lately. Keep it up mate. And thanks for inclusion in the opening. Made me feel special. My wife and I are doing well. The kids are growing up so fast. School is going by like a whirlwind. It's almost the end of my second semester. Two more weeks starting tomorrow and then I start my 3rd semester. This semester the law class has been unbelievable. But so far I have an A.

Auntie Mil glad to hear everything is going well with you. Looking so forward to FIF. Got to get there.. : ) Ahh and my next goal, I'm supposed to graduate next year with my MBA and I've decided to go to Law School afterwards. I've got to take my LSAT, but that won't be a problem. I'll be able to generate some incredible funds by then for the next 15 to 20 years to set my children up for the rest of their lives and retire in Santa Barbara. Great expectations huh? I'm at an all time high now...I can do anything..except it seems lose weight..I've never had such an issue, but I'll get it.

Hi Kelly sounds like you are doing better. So happy for you.

Re: Shall we dance? I immediately thought of you Paul. How awesome you would be in that. I know it would feel like a repeat or what do they call it ..."type" casting? But what an awesome movie it'll be. SB came first though.

Great to read and catch up. Oh Paul..hope you get better soon and you to lizzie.

Congrats again on the show...and thanks to you Peter for the very descriptive written version of the show. How envious we in America are of that TV night. It's kinda sad when you've made friends over the internet and you can't see their successes. I'll definitely take pictures of my graduation so you can see my "Happy face" now where have I heard that before? ; )

peace and love everyone.

Your pal

Tim

Yep second show coming up tomorrow! And thank you Peter for reminding me to brush my hair etc. As for tucking my shirt into my pants I couldnt as I was only wearing underwear - but dont tell any one!!

Welcome Lizzie and thanks for saying gidday and telling us about your self. I hope you get over your flu but with all that you are doing it may take a little longer than you would like. Drink lots of water!

Hey everyone!!
How are you all well im doing great. School went well. I had a chorus rehearsal and it went beautifuly. I woke up this morning feeling great. I still have a bit of a cold but, im getting better and in a bit I have bible study wich im exstatic about. I have been in such a great mood. I hope the same for you all. Well tell me how your day went.
Tomorrow I have a volley-ball game and the day after tomorrow as well so, pray for me. Oh and this weekend I have a tournament.
Ok well I feel selfish talking about myself so, tell me about yourselves. Im such in a good mood!!
Ok well talk to you later!!!
"A friend is somone who will never ask for anything to drink, a best friend will open the fridge and make themselves at home"
--no idea who wrote that
love you all
lizee
p.s.
question--Where do you all live?
(Anybody wondering i live in Florida/U.S.)

Paul!!
I wanted to tell you that my four year old sister is taking dance>
Shes becoming a complete girly-girl but shes happy I just thought I would you would be happy

Hello!!I think you all are getting sick of me allready.....
Well bible study was cancled for today so my aunty Sofie and my cousin Andy and my twin sisters and I went out to eat and spent some quality time together.It was very yummy.

so hows everyone?
--good I hope--
Well im quite tired so I think I will retire for the night-so goodnight and sleep with the angels or whatever time it is for you:)
love
lizee
"The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return"
--Moulin Rouge--

Hi guys,

Hope everyone is doing well and, those who have been slowed down by the flu, continuing to improve. :-)

A warm welcome to LIZZIE, it's great to have you in Paul's Corner! To answer your questions, I live in New York City with my husband and son (he's a high school senior). We have an older son who lives in Philadelphia. I'm a stay at home mom and my hobby is creating miniature rooms and landscaped scenes. You can visit my photo albums by clicking on my name at the end of this post. :-)

GRANDMA MIL,
I didn't realize that the projector was way up on the ceiling, now I understand why the showing had to be postponed until the bulb could be changed. It is amazing how much sharper and vivid the image gets after a new bulb is installed. It brings to mind how we, too, can start to let things slide and get used to a dimmer light (because it happens gradually), so only when we find ourselves in a dark moment do we realize we need to re-evaluate our lives, get a new bulb, and let our line shine once again -- even more brightly than it did before. Hmm, I wonder if the dinner my mom cooked for us tonight contained an extra helping of philosophy! LOL

Well, I'm exhausted. I had been taking Vioxx for my arthritis and now had to stop it, so I have been experiencing more pain than usual. It is time for me to go to bed and get some rest.

Good nite everyone! :-O (that's a yawn)

Nertha

Nertha, Your flu remedy came across at the right time. I've been down with it for the past several days....sick as a dog...I'm gonna try your remedy! Hello all...do yourselves a favor and stay away from anyone who sneezes!!!! xo Jennifer