Paul's Corner

it would be fun to be there, too wouldn't it? I am attending in spirit and having a blast :)

Dear Paul and All,

It is with immense gratitude and devotion that I
hereby acknowledge your kind thoughts as the world
premiere of Tara Morice's production of "My Biggest Fan" unfolded last night in our beautiful
Wynmoor Theatre.

Ellie and I picked her and Ondine up at the Marriott on cue; she and I were greeted with roars
and applause as we walked the red carpet between two lines of adoring Wynmoorites and other guests to the reception area.

Then, at the appropriate time, after a respite of
cheese and wine, the group walked into the Wynmoor Theatre where another crowd had collected;
we estimated that there were close to 400 people in all before the film began.(A lot of people chose to watch the politcal debates and did not attend; silly people, they missed an event to remember.)

Tara and I were introduced; she and I made some short introductory remarks. She was so beautiful and loving; she had been here 18 long months ago for the initial filming and people remembered her and Ondine and greeted them with hugs and kisses.

"My Biggest Fan" is awesome; although it was made
for TV, it was projected on our huge screen, and the colors, music, and sound were fantastic.

The audience was mesmerized as the narration began, with the scenes from the Cannes Film Festival where "Strictly Ballroom" was applauded
at midnight for 7 minutes; the subsequent stardom
of Paul and Tara, and the excitement worldwide,
where Doris Day and Robert DiNero had private screenings, and the Pope said it was his favorite film. (The audience loved you, Paul, "handsome and
a fantastic dancer" were the remarks last night)

Then, later, over the years, Tara said, "At age 30
I was on the list of "what ever happened to..."

It was then that I came onto the scene; I was writing to her about 9/11 and how SB affected our
seniors. Our correspondence lasted for 5 years
until I received an email from her asking me for
permission to come to Wynmoor and make a documentary on my life and our activities as seniors.

I could go on and on; there was humor and tears, and at the end of the film people were rushing up saying they wanted a copy. The administrator of
Wynmoor was beaming all evening, and the accolades continued at another reception after the film ended.

Tara's editing of the 26 hours of film was incredible. Her narration was magnificent, and her own scenes of her life before SB were beautiful on that huge screen.

Julie could not connect with Tara and me timewise.

It seems that Tara wanted a run-through in the afternoon with the projectionist on the projector
that Wynmoor uses. Tara wanted MBF in a format tape called Digibeta, and not DVD. It is big screen technolgy, and she had to rent a machine that we picked up beforehand.

Lo and behold, our projectionist could not get that format going; after 3 anxious hours the problem was detected and fixed; Tara, to her credit, was anxious but determined to do it with
digibeta, which was truly gorgeous on screen.

I had to call Julie on my cellphone to tell her that we could not meet her for pictures, for she had some time limits too, and it was getting late.
We had to rest up, get dressed, and leave for the premiere.

Many, many pictures were taken throughout the whole evening, plus video, so we have a record of that fabulous evening. (Julie, Tara will be back;
she was given an offer to lecture in a college in south Florida, all expenses paid.)

MBF will be shown at the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival in October, and then,
on Australian TV (SBS on Friday, November 7th, 7:30 p.m.)

In an hour we will meet Tara and Ondine and have some brunch; at noon we will accompany her as she is driven to the airport; she is going to New York
for a week to visit her brother and family, and take in a Broadway show. Then, the long trip back to Australia, with, I hope, a sense of accomplishment for a magnificent production.

Ellie and I are sad already, at the prospect of her and Ondine leaving...it was too short a visit,
but lots was accomplished, and for that we are grateful.

Shalom and love,

Grandma Mil

Ahhhhh, I just took a deep sigh. I soaked it all in and it was a bitter sweet ending. I am so proud of Tara for presenting the film to the best of her abilities and doing it all the justice it deserves. It sounds like quite a turnout of attendance. I didn't watch the presidential debate. I was working. I heard it wasn't that impressive. I would have gladly missed it to attend the festivities!

I bet you and Ellie made a handsome couple at the premier! I can't wait to see pictures.

Paul, how sweet and gracious you are, as always! I bet they would have FREAKED out if you would have been there. I know I would have! You're still as handsome and talented as ever. How are things going for you?? Please let us know what is new with you. Are you filming? What delicious food and recipes will be shared this season?

Well Millie, what will you do now that all the excitement is over. I feel a bit of a let down, but oh, what a wonderful experience!!

Please let us know when we will be able to purchase a copy of the film.

Fantastic job! I now consider YOU a film star!

Congratulations Grandma Millie for pulling off a fantastic event!!!

Grandma Mil, it sounds as if the premiere was everything it should have been. I hope we are eventually able to see photos.

Mary, I'm glad you sister is doing well with her current round of treatment.

I am safe and sound in Montréal. Last night I had a wonderful time with my friend Anna, and I did a ton of walking yesterday. Today I'm taking it easy because we have plans for this evening.

I hope everyone is enjoying their weekend. :o)

G. Mil and Tara, great premiere it looks like. Had to find out what chookas meant (is sounded like salmon, but that is chinook) Did look it up and it is the uniquely Australian equivalent of "break a leg" that those in the Australian Ballet community say when wishing someone to do well on opening night, but in a reverse karma sort of way as in "break a leg" As only Paul would say...

Joining in those wishes and it did turn out well! G. Mil I am so happy for you and would like to see even a clip. More aliveness energy to you...

My congratulations also, Grandma Mil. I'm so glad you had a wonderful time and a nice, though short, visit.

I'd like to see the film also. Please do let us know when and where we might get it.

Brava, Brava, Brava to Grandma Mil and Tara!

Thanks for sharing with us, Grandma Mil. This was so marvelous. Out of the sad tidings of 9/11, here you both are taking it into something so magical!

I'm happy to hear that Tara will return. I hope you and Ellie will see her then.

Sarah, I visited Montreal sometime back and just loved it. Enjoy your stay!

Paul, keep us posted--hope your new ventures continue to be awesome!

Wishing everyone a great week.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO CAT!!!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO CAT!!!!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO CAT!!!! October 1 !!!!!

Hope is it happy and spooky and spent with those you love....

(Trying to get the Australian date right as is is always tomorrow in Australia.)

Wow, how time flies!

I'm sorry to hear you won't be back on DWTS again Paul.

Life's being a very awkward thing at the minute, hence my absence but I'm hoping that things will start to look up soon.

Anyway, Paul, good wishes to you, your family and everyone here at the corner!

Lots of love.
Clair. XX

Meant to put this in the last comment....WOW your portrait is amazing!

Feliz cumpleanos

Sto Lat (may you live 100 years)

Happy Birthday

to our CAT!!

PS--I must remember "chookas" for our next performance . . .

Melody, you actually posted about Montréal the day I returned. LOL I did have a wonderful time though, and even with all the food I ate I still managed to lose 1 lb. I'm sure it's all the walking I did too. :o)

Happy birthday, Cat!

Happy Birthday Dear Cat!!!

Thank you for your oversight of the Paul's Corner as our webmaster.

May you have a great time...wonder what you get to do today.

(Trying to get the Aus time stamp right on the blog. Oct 1)

Happy Birthday Cat and the very best wishes to you for health, happiness and prosperity!

Dear Cat,

Happy Birthday to you!

Too bad you live so far from Florida...I would have arranged a screening of "My Biggest Fan"!

I will be getting DVDs of "My Biggest Fan" from Tara eventually. She will be making a bulk mailing
from Australia...couldn't be too expensive! If anyone is interested, please let me know!

Again, enjoy the day, Cat, and thank you for all that you have done for us!

Shalom and love,

Grandma Mil

Grandma Mil, "if" anyone is interested in a DVD? You are joking, right? :o)

Hello to the PCs. In answer to MaryS who commented I am always on the computer; You are right, I am always on the computer. Don't have a good reason--just that have lots of work that follows me home--I can connect to work and keep working from home after working in the office. I blog daily out of habit or maybe I am now a pathologic blogger at this site. I have no justification for why I am here every day--I am choosing to waste my time with daily blogs at the PC site--but such wonderful people...so much to follow on Paul and the PCs...Or maybe I am just a creature of habit or maybe I am really an isolated person although I work with people and am surrounded by people who care about me. Do you think I now need a psych eval?

I would someday like to be a journalist or a gossip columnist as I like looking up info--that would be my calling versus what I do now.

I was just thinking why I like this site and visit a lot--for one thing I love Grandma Mil with her bold ways, producing her own shows and movies and countless ways of being young--she is the most youthful and vital person I have come across.

Evelyn for her deep musings and her love of the word valence--multivalent and her telling of the unraveling of her relationhip. and those words like contradictoriness (that's German right?)

Melody for her love of dancing and Chicago; she reminds me of Tara, like a real life Tara Morice. She is the one that makes the newcomers to the PC site feel welcome--it is hard for newcomers to pick up on a thread sometimes coz the references go back to years ago--Melody always brings them in esp the lost wanderers. Thank you as I remember you were very kind to respond when I started blogging here.

Sarah with your amazing adventures--I do not know where you will end up next NY or Montreal as you are free and travel easily.

MaryS I love too bec of your LA-Colorado ties you are such a cool woman--so true to yourself--in a no kidding kind of way--you do not sugarcoat your life's experiences. I find your voice is true.

Julie for her creative pursuits in photography and her neighbor Gene who is so wise. And she loves mojitos (with real spearmint).

Hilary for her great insight from the land of Oz. You have had mts and valleys in your life. Thank you for your advice esp with the tough questions.

To Cat who with her creativity and passion for things that lie between sublime beauty and spookiness. Thanks for making the site work.

And of course, Paul, who I am in awe of, and continue to follow your every creative work be it in beer, dance or travel or making salami or being a dad.

Liz, to help you out, I'll be landing in FL next. :o) I plan to head down there next week to meet with the lawyer(s) regarding my father's estate. It won't be a fun trip, but it has to be done. I'll also see my friend, Susie who has cancer.

I generally visit PC every day, I just don't always post anything. I have a number of sites I visit regularly, sometimes I post on them and sometimes not. It all depends on the mood I'm in.

I hope all are well. I'm still on a "happy cloud" after my trip. I don't think I ever stated why I'm floating - I got to meet a singer I greatly admire, and it was amazing. I'd much rather be going back to Montréal than to FL next week. LOL

Awe Liz. Once again, the time you take to write is pretty amazing. We should give you the title of "historian of the corner". You really do take it all in and you never miss a beat. It's awesome!

Happy Birthday Cat! Thank you so very much for what you have done for all of us!

Paul, I hope you and the family are doing well. We always think of you and are always wishing only the best your way.

Grandma, I'd love a copy of the video also. Just let me know when and where to send my money. :)

It's been a rough week. 3 members of my family made trips to the hospital in the last few days. My 90 year old mother in California went in with what may have been a gallbladder attack. She was there for about 4 hours. She's doing fine now and no surgery is needed.
My 83 year old Uncle, who is the last surviving member of the Desi Lu Orchestra from I Love Lucy fame, has advanced Parkinson's Disease. He fell and cut his head in his home and ended up remaining in the hospital and will only be released to possibly never live alone again. He is being placed into a nursing facility, which my mother is going to voice her strong opinion against. His son is orchestrating his move into full time care and feels it is best and safest for him. My mother doesn't want it to happen. She has a strong fear against this and I know this will not be an option for us, her kids if and when that time ever sadly does occur. My grandmother lived alone in her home until she died at the age of 97. She was still doing everything for herself, but her heart started to fail and then in the end she died of a stroke after suffering the attack while in her bed. She passed while in the hospital, a few days later, never waking up from the stroke. The third person was my sister Becky. After doing quite well with her 3rd 5 day treatment in the hospital, and being released, she was suffering from horrible joint pain, and while up and moving around, she started to pass out. 911 was called and she ended up in the hospital for about 5 hours. She's having a slow recovery this round. It's odd, she did so well in the hospital, but this medication does what it wants to do and there is no pattern. We are praying for her strength to return soon.

So, along with stress at work and stress at home, I am quite worn out. I need to focus on some strengthening myself. It's just hard.

Everyone please send good energy out for us ok? I would really appreciate it!

Love you all!

The problem with lists....others are always left out.

Liz, thanks for your kind thoughts.

Marian--please know you are not forgotten!! :) I've enjoyed all of you and also that admiring Paul, SB and his other successes have brought us together--that's awesome in itself.

I check almost daily, and while I do post often, there are times what fellow PCs say and share sometimes does it for me, or there's not more I can add because it's said so well.

And Paul has such a great way of getting us to think and respond. It must have been great to be in class with him--I can only imagine the energy and spark he gave while dancing or creating. (Not to mention rehearsing--I bet he really inspired dancers to their max.)

PS Granda Mil, please include me for a copy--let us know ordering details.

Mary, my thoughts are with you and your family right now. I'll also send some calming vibes your way to help you with the stress. :o)

I've been sitting here the past few nights annoyed that it is only the beginning of October and already my feet and arms are cold at night while sitting on the computer. It is far too early to even consider turning on the heat. So tonight I decided that I would build a small fire in the fireplace. Goodness knows I have enough wood to last me a lifetime, so I might as well use it. The heat is just enough to keep me comfortable, and keep me from raising my electric bill this early. :o)

I must be the internet dolt of the geriatric brigade :rolleyes: ... Here was me checking the last thread, and wondering why there were no new replies, and never thought to go back to "home". Sigh.

Liz, I'm in New Zealand. :) Though I'm sure Paul would argue that NZ is just a state of Australia gone walkabout. :grin

Grandma Mil, the night, and the film sounds fantastic. I am thrilled for you. Unfortunately the only contact I had in Australia who could have taped it for me, is going to be in New Zealand walking the Holyford Track that week. So I'm stuck, and hope that there will be DVD's of MBF, and that you will let us know when etc.

Paul, what have you been up to? How did the filming of Mercurio's Menu go?

This may sound silly, but I'm wondering if you would consider doing something similar to what Jamie Oliver has done, but with an ANZAC flavour...

Jamie O decided to learn how to vegetable garden. He was a total greenhorn about it, ... but a lot of people are. However, huge numbers of people would really like to know, as new-to-the-art, how to make the best of their back yard, but they don't know where to start and why, and how to move from small to more proficient.

I don't know if you vegetable garden or not, but if you don't, have you thought about approaching the network with a view to doing a programme called "A year in the revamp of Mercurio's backyard?" (It doesn't have to be your backyard... maybe a piece of land near the studio or somewhere close that could be converted into vegetable garden. You could take people through step by step, what it would take for someone new to gardening, how to work out what part of their garden would work taking into account soil, wind, sun and water resources; how to make compost, how to garden effectively, starting small, and how to use what they produce from the garden in the kitchen.

Lots of people now don't know that sort of thing, but might try if it was put to them by way of a non-expert trying.

Course, it could be that you are an expert in which case the idea is dead on the ground in terms of a beginner. Maybe it's dead on the ground anyway, but you said you were looking at what you could do that was "new"...
so I was just thinking out loud...

Hilary.

Liz, I can't attribute my multivalent contradictoriness to being German (or make this count as German), but solely to being an academic and/or to to being in academia, whichever you prefer. :)

sorry,, I'm overwhelmed and swamped right now, I meant to ask you Mary, how are your family doing?

Love and calm and peace to all!

Sorry to the PCs I did not mention--Marian who is one of the originals, Rosie who is a dancer, LOL Rosie, but who I have not heard from in a while, Claire from the UK with her mysterious love XX byline, and Maria Horos from Brazil who is the only PC who has seen Mercurio's Menu as she got DVDs from the producer. Alicia, the flamenco dancer just like Melody who is a professional flamenco instructor. Ole Melody!

Mary S your family has good genes and everyone seems long lived and now your mom and uncle have been ill but have rebounded. I hope Becky heals too and pray for her and Sarah's Suzie to get better.

I cannot say New Zealand after having used Oz, So Hilary it will be Hilary from the Land of Oz--
so we come to you for advice just like looking for the wizard. The backyard garden sounds interesting with the move towards eating local and bringing back the hearth as the center of the family.

Your multivalent contradictoriness, Evelyn, Paul loves--I love reading the exchange bet you and Paul esp when you talk about the rip tides and the loss of a relationship. Must be a busy time in the university and we miss your contradictoriness...

Would love to hear from Paul. The last we have heard he was in Kangaroo Island.
Hello Paul!!!Wishing you a nice day.

HIlary, that would make a great show. Years ago in the States they called these "Victory" gardens and many people in Chicago grow herbs and vegetables in their gardens as did my father. His sweet corn was some of the greatest I ever tasted, and we'd have tomatoes and cucumbers. My brother also was growing lettuce this year and some other goodies. (Thankfully these were harvested them prior to that flood a few weeks back!)

And on the idea of gardens, Chicago's Mayor Daley is known for the "green" roof above City Hall. They planted a garden up there. LOL

But with the concerns of global warming and even biologically processed foods, this would make a great topic.

Wishing Paul and PCs a good week!

Liz, I'll have to 'blame' you for that one, but I just had to throw multi-valency into the conference talk that I'm working on right now. Not sure if contradictoriness will find its way into it ... and no, I'm not trying to force either one into the talk. And in light of your comment, I will have a hard enough time keeping a straight face when I get to this part of my talk on Friday. :)

Evelyn, just make sure you do not have the Paul salami picture in your slide show if you have slides for the lecture. Curious what field it is but you do not have to disclose the details but is it in chemistry, as that is the one place where I have see valence used. But you mentioned looking at medieval scripts so could it be medieval chem? alchemy, which is how chem began? Your multivalent contradictoriness will make for an interesting lecture--jsut like the Shakespearean "her infinite variety" in your case, Evelyn's multivalent contradictoriness...

My field is German & Medieval Studies (mostly German, with English, Scandinavian and French as well) and medieval studies of course can include pretty much any discipline just limiting it to about the 1000 years that span the Middle Ages :) But I'm mostly working in culture and literature and gender studies which of course constantly taps into history and depending on the project I looked into chivalry, medieval medicine, perceptions of madness, queenship, right now I have to get going on becoming more familiar with medieval theology (and that feels like opening a can of worms ...) and of course modern theories. Managed to stay away from chem and alchemy so far, but who knows, it may just come up one of these days.

And Liz you may write the lecture entitled "Evelyn's multivalent contradictoriness" I'd love to hear it! :)

Thank you Sarah and Evelyn and all who are sending prayers and good vibes. I really had not thought about what a load of stress I was carrying around, but now that I think of it, there's a weight for sure. I will try to be aware of that, as I feel it has begun to show more at work. Thanks for reminding me!

My mother is doing the best out of the three who are aging and suffering from illness. My sister is in R&R and has to build up for the next treatment, which is less than a week away. I can't see how they think a body can take this.

My uncle's son, my cousin, is preparing for my uncle to go to a rest home. My mother wants her brother to be moved quickly to his own home and have a live in nurse. So we shall see what happens. It's sad to give up your independence, but we younger ones in the family want what is best. He is completely unable to care for himself and there is absolutely no guarantee that a live in nurse will give any better care than he would get where there are more eyes watching. I know that is bad to say, but I almost trust a larger place more than just one person trying to care for a man who is going to be a big challenge to care for. My mom disagrees. She fears this part of her life more than anything and insists that we NEVER put her in a nursing home. I feel it depends greatly on the place and the people. In both cases.

Well, I just ruined a perfectly good lemon cake by putting into a pan that was too small. I have a huge mess to clean up in the oven now and the cake is going to be tossed, so you can see what frame of mind I am in.

Take care everyone!

MaryS--

I read your post and thought to make this comment--

My mother's last two years were up and back to the hospital due to her heart and persistent congestive heart failure. She would have rehab in a nursing center but we would return her to her condo and rotated with a caregiver to watch over her rather than keep her at the nursing center.

She retained her privacy and remained in her home. The caregiver was able to react quickly to her needs rather than wait on a nursing staff that was already underhanded (a trend here in the Chicago area).

While at the nursing center during a rehab I walked in one evening to find her in a diabetic reaction (low blood sugar). What if I didn't walk in when I did and the nurses found her too late on their rounds? She was too delirious to call the nurse herself.

Your family knows best, but letting him remain at home is definitely worth looking at and may cost the same in the long run.

It's so hard to determine what's best for another's life because you always want the best for them and it seems you can never be sure what that really is until you get there.

I sincerely wish you and your family all the best with this.

Just another thought--

I lost my sister at a nursing center. She was overdosed with medication. She was recuperating after hip surgery and turned out rather tragically.

If you do go the way of a rest home or nursing center, please check the facility out. Most have references on file, along with checks by the local government/municipality.

Again, I wish all of you the best. :)

MaryS, just wondering what your uncle wants for himself--did he make his wishes explicit or did he designate someone to make the decision for him, in this case it looks like the son has the POA for healthcare. So in the midst of all the conflict within the family, it is impt that his wishes and preferences be respected. Your mom feels strongly about her care during illness--and looks like she made her wishes known--this seems straighforward compared to your uncle where it's not clear what he would have wanted.

For Evelyn, I am not an expert so I cannot give a lecture but I can make up one: Here's the working title:

A Discourse on Multivalent Contradictoriness and the Eternal Search for Uncle Bob--A conversation between Paul Mercurio and Evelyn. (Does that sound scholarly enough?) I can put a picture of Paul on the slide show and it will a standing room only lectureof course)

I did look up the reference to "her infinite variety" as I have come across the phrase many times and it refers to Cleopatra in Anthony and Cleopatra by Shakespeare.

But I like multivalent contradictoriness of Evelyn better.

Melody, thanks for presenting a balanced view of care at home vs in a facility--sorry that you have had such tragic experiences esp with your sister and mom. It always helps to be watchful and have family like you who looks after them. I do not have easy solutions that I can offer as fatal errors have happened esp when dealing life and health.

Melody I feel upset that your sister died bec of a serious oversight. I am sorry for what happened to her. Was the incident investigated? Was the facility checked?

MaryS I am sending you peacefulness as you help your family sort out the best course to take.

I too feel very strongly that if a parent doesn't want to go into a nursing home, that that should not happen.

My father died this January, and I won't go into the wherefores of it. My only regret is that he did want to go there, because he did not want to be a "burden", whereas in the times when I looked after him, I never viewed it as a burden but a priveledge. He endured things that were so unnecessary, because he wouldn't allow us to honour and look after him. He wanted us to have our lives, and in doing so, lost his own.

I would so much have preferred to have made him part of our family for the last five years.

and can so relate to what Melody says.

Hilary.

Melody, I believe that circumstances in the future will mean that victory gardens are essential. Australia has a lot of indigenous plants which are very high in flavinoids, as does New Zealand, but they require to be brought to the public attention now, while there is time to get the knowledge out there.

Like these people: http://treecropsresearch.org/montys-surprise/

The world needs people to take back ownership of primary production, and because what people eat is important to them, it's something that will always have good ratings :)

And I think Paul would be brilliant at it.

Hilary.

I thank you all so much for your kind input. I do realize that if at all possible, dieing within the familiar walls of your own home would always seem best. It's a matter of logistics. My Uncle does want to be in his own home. The thing is that he gave up his home years ago, when it became too much for him. At that time, he moved into an apt, but it was on the second floor. So my cousin has already moved him out of the apt, while my uncle has been in the hosp. So either way, they will need to find a new place to call "home". I also do wish for everyone to live out their life in dignity, privacy, and safe, loving care. This is where it becomes difficult. I always say, we pretty much go out the way we came in. We end up relying on someone to handle our every day needs. We have to hope that someone will care for us as well as our own mother did when we were infants. This is allot to expect from a virtual stranger. My hope is that where ever we end up, we find an angel to care for us and that our family is near by. My Uncle is in another state from me. My mother lives over an hour from him right now and cannot go to him. In the recent past, my brother would drive our uncle to my mother's home to visit her. If my uncle gains some strength, this may continue, but otherwise, it may even become near impossible for my mother to see her brother.

I also live completely alone here in Colorado. I have one friend who I consider family. If there were ever an emergency, I am not sure I could put the expectation of care on her. So you see where my somewhat fatalistic attitude comes from. I am only in my fifties, but seem to have a vision of the end which I should not be focusing on, but the events of recent have brought these to my mind and depressed me somewhat.

I am assisting my family from here to the best of my abilities by encouraging my mother to express her wishes, which she now has. My cousin has spoken with my mother and states that he will consider all possibilities before settling on a care facility. My mother spoke to her brother and he has let her know that of course, if possible, he does not want a care facility and that he does have the money for home care. Medicare also has nursing options for the home. So I imagine we will be having to make a decision very soon.

Too long! Sorry everyone. Just wanted to update you all.

Thanks so much for the sage advice and warm thoughts on my family's challenges of the moment! I feel so fortunate to know you all!

Liz--after my sister's passing, the county held an inquest (because of the overdose at a nursing facility that should be monitoring/controlling their distribution) and it became the basis of a civil lawsuit against the facility and its parent company.

I understand that facility was closed and their residents had to be transferred. The facility was re-opened under a different firm, so my nephew heard. The administrator was transferred to another facility, the head nurse resigned, the staff was moved to other facilities. The local police told us they had so many complaints that it became know as the "We Don't Care Center" (it was called Wheaton Care Center after the town).

My brother and I were called in for a deposition and had to answer questions about our family history and what we knew of my sister's health, our family life. Everything was under a microscope. In the end, it still came down to their not following certain protocols with medication and my nephew won a settlement along with mandated changes in the company.

MaryS, I hope your uncle and nephew come to a good conclusion that works well for him.

My very best to you and your family! :)

Changing topics--DWTS USA

We have a veteran actress, Cloris Leachman participating in this season's competition.

I didn't see the opening weeks, and I believe last night was the 3rd week--anyway, Cloris did a jive with her partner last night, and I was so angry at the choreography (done by her partner). I would have creamed him were I Cloris.

Horrid, horrid chor., and then Cloris was wearing a wig that fell off, and the guy threw it offstage (which of course made sense), but overall, it was not suitable for her and overall embarassing.

I turned it off--I don't know where Cloris stands after that fiasco, but someone else needed to look at that choreography before it was performed. It was set to fail and really made her look bad.

I think even Paul would have told her partner to "what were you thinking--get real!"

Thanks everyone for letting me gripe!

Melody, I watched the same jive you mentioned. I can understand modifying a routine so Cloris can handle it physically, but she did seem embarassed or befuddled for the remainder of the routine after her wig fell of -- nor did she seem her usual jovial self afterward. She asked the judges to give her "1's".

She ended up with 16 points, 4 behind the next lowest couple.

I saw that too! Oh my goodness! That poor woman. Being dragged all over the floor. She was cracking up hysterically after the routine back stage. She's always been mostly a comedian. She has totally surprised me. For 82 years old, I would think she wouldn't have even made it this far. I don't know that I could even have done what she has done so far! LOL. She needs to stop before I cry! I'm joking. It's entertainment, but not of my taste. I've had to really push myself to warm up to this season. I LOVE the show though, so I'm sure I'll watch every single episode and I've already voted last week. I'm disappointed in Rocco . He's Italian, but has absolutely no musicality. He's improved a bit but he makes me totally uncomfortable to watch. I sit here chuckling at the images from last night and look forward to McCain and Obama zipping it so I can get back to my happy spot and can put the needles down that I want to stick in my ears and eyes to wipe the image of both of these guys out of my mind. I know which one I'm voting for, but as you can see, I'm not too happy about it.

Back on the subject of DWTS. Susan Lucci is 62 years old! Grant it, she's had some work done, but she doesn't look her age. She looks like a china doll ready to break though. I wish she would show a little more spunk. Poor Misty! That is a nasty injury to the heel! She had surgery today. Wishing her well.

Grandma Millie? Whatcha up to?

Night everyone!

Liz, that title works! go for it and PLEASE make the lecture funny!!!! I've been to so many conferences/academic presentations that are so scholarly and damn boring and dry-RRRRRgggg! I tried to put some jokes into mine, but that's a tough line sometimes to have academic substance and have it be light and enjoyable for the audience and then to have to speak in front of an audience that are experts in my field and far more expert on the text that I'm talking about than I am at this point in my career and academics who are experts in completely different areas. It's a conference on exile studies, which normally focuses only on exile caused by German national socialism and WWII. this time they decided to broaden the conference to include other times of exile, i.e. mine is medieval exile. We shall see how it will go, am just a tad bid nervous, and just because I invited my dissertation advisor to present on the same panel as I do. any one out there got good advice on what to do about jittery nerves? and please don't give me the one "picture your audience naked!" that one backfired ... :)

Mary, keeping your family in my thoughts and your friend Sarah!

" ahhmmm, that's supposed to be "an not just because I invited ..."

Dear Paul,

This thread started with your "Chookas Grandma Mil
and Tara" on September 27th, and "chookas" it was for Tara and Ondine from the residents and friends that attended that unforgetable premiere night of "My Biggest Fan".

Tara just emailed me on the subject line that she and Ondine arrived safely back in Sydney after a long flight that was delayed. Ordinarily the flight would be 20 plus hours, and I won't hear from her for a few days for she and Ondine are so exhausted.

What can I say: She is so lovely, so gracious; she stole the hearts of those that met her and Ondine.

I miss her, and play "My Biggest Fan" every day. I am hooked, or like someone remarked, "obsessed" and I unashamedly agree!

Tara told me to inform you dear friends that MBF
will be available for sale on a website that SBS TV will be setting up after November 7th, which is the TV debut in Australia.

Ordinarily, I would have sent DVDs privately, but I promised Tara that I would adhere to the agreement that she made with SBS because of rights
that SBS has. SBS will be showing MBF on Friday,
November 7th, 7:30 p.m. Fingers crossed! They
loved it in Wynmoor and in 10 days will be shown
at the Ft. Lauderdale International Film Festival.

I will probably be asked to make a comment or two
unaccustomed as I am to public speaking...as Tara would say, "It is quite exciting"...

Tonight is the start of Yom Kippur, the holiest day on the Jewish calendar. Prayers will be said for us all, and a special prayer for those that have also been on Ellie''s prayer list, such as Rebecca, Susie, and our daughter, Leah.

Prayers have helped. Leah is holding her own;
she sold her old house (in spite of the economy) and is happily enjoying her apartment, newly furnished, and near upscale stores in the neigborhood. She went by herself to California to
visit her daughter, Kayla, at college; I asked her
how the trip was, and she told me fine; she had to use a wheelchair in the airport, and when she told me that, my heart sank..she was the athlete in the family; she has true grit and we are grateful that she is holding her own and enjoying her new apartment, a big lift for her, her twin sister Marcia, and Ellie and me.

Shalom and love,

Grandma Mil

Grandma Mil will look forward to the DVD at the SBS store; is there a preview clip available? Happy to hear that Leah is doing well. You are busy with your speaking engagements now that you are a movie star and hard to get a hold of. I admire your bold superstar ways.

Evelyn, your area of research is so interesting--I never knew that so much happened in the middle ages and that you have looked at madness, exile, queenship, medicine, gender studies in that time period.

As for lecture jitters--Grandma Mil would be the expert as she is a performer and so would Melody and Paul--they are all comfortable with performance. I am sure they have good tips.

Just an idea--watch SB many times before the lecture--esp the red curtain dance with Paul and Tara--that would inspire you for the lecture--a life lived in fear is a life half lived--imagine Paul, Tara and Grandma Yaya saying that. It worked for me for a majorly impt interview--just do not laugh or giggle during the lecture as you imagine this. Also being the expert in the area of research you are among the few who know what is not known in that field, sort of pushing the limits of what is known. So exciting. Tell me if the SB technique works.

So many threads to follow in this blog--To Melody, that was quite a fight that you and your brother had with Wheaton so that the same thing doesn't happen again.

I told Evelyn about you being comfortable with an audience as I saw your bata pictures and your flamenco performance--so how do you deal with performance jitters? I am sure Paul as an actor is used to this and Grandma Mil too.

Evelyn, may your multivalent contradictoriness bring light to the topic of medieval exile--that really sounds like an interesing topic--but all I know about the Middle Ages is Monty Python (he's in the same era). Will work on the lecture.

About the wig falling off--I hope there comes a time when that would seem so insignificant. If I were 80 and dancing, I probably would not care to0 much if my wig flies away--as they say one becomes carefree, the insouciance of becoming older. It prob would be relative what's embarrassing at that age--it would be devastating to a teen ager but if I were 80, I prob would be more worried about whether I lived a happy life...

Grandma Mil, as you prepare and begin your highest holy day, I thank you and Ellie for your prayers earlier this year for my brother. I'm happy that Leah is holding her own and was able to sell her house in this financial environment. I hope she enjoys her new apartment, but mostly that her strength and stamina stay with her. She remains in my prayers. (And so do all PC intentions.)

Please keep us posted on DVD sale information. I can't blame you and Ellie for watching it often!

Going back to Cloris and DWTS USA, while the wig falling off may have been disconcerting, the choreography just wasn't good. He may have adjusted it for her, but I think that wasn't the best approach. He should have choreographed to her ability, not just adjust. (Build up not adjust down . . . )

Millie, I am happy to hear that Leah is doing well and even traveled. I can only imagine how a mother would feel to here that her daughter, who was once an athlete, had to use a wheelchair, but I bet it was that she was tired and could just get around easier with that assistance. Don't let your heart sink. She must be feeling strong and empowered to have been in spirits to travel to see her daughter. She's like you and Ellie, so positive, I bet.

Thank you for including my sister and our family in this holy season and it's blessed prayers. I feel so very fortunate that my sister is included. This treatment really knocked the you-know-what out of her. She is actually going back in to the hospital next week again. I can't believe it. This will be round 4. I think she has about 3 more five day treatments and will finish by Christmas. She's going to be a totally different person by then. She already is. I hope that some of the damage this is doing can be reversed. They don't know. Her spirits are strong though. Not mine. I hate to sound doom and gloom, but I just can't help it. Maybe I need to see a therapist. I may look into it. I feel my own health is taking a hit from so many stresses around me of late. The worries around my financial difficulties are only heightened by hearing about it in the world. If I lose my job, I'm going to really be in for a rude awakening. There's always that threat hanging over us at work, but my manager says we're safe for now. I just worry too much!

I want to find my inner child again and feel innocent happiness and relaxation. Tomorrow I have a day off and will visit a friend with a 2 and a half year old and a 1 year old. I hope I can tap into their little free spirits and laugh allot!

Comcast cable just took a dive in my area. I went online to "chat" to a live agent. They said it was a connection problem with no ETA for a fix. Weird that my phone and internet are working fine and they are all Comcast also.

Oh well, a good excuse to hit the hay!

Night everyone.

MaryS--hoping your sister continues to pull through all this. May she fully regain her health and strength.

Always good to talk to someone, whether it's to us on PC or a counsellor. I have on occasion and it does help. Good knowing someone is in your corner.

Will continue my prayers. Hang in there! :)

Mary, my thoughts and prayers still to your sister. I'm also sending good vibes to you. It sounds as if you could use some. :o)

Grandma Mil, I'm glad Leah is doing well. That is always good to hear.

I'm in FL at my Mom's house right now. Tomorrow I meet with the lawyer regarding my father's estate.

Grandma Mil, a blessed Yom Kippur and prayers for Leah to continue to get better.

MaryS I hope you get some rest and spent time with the children. You have had a lot on your mind lately. You care so much for your sister even though you said you were opposites.

Evelyn, may you have a great lecture on contradictoriness and exile. "Chookas" as Paul would say.

Sarah, hope things go smothly--hang in there.

Chookas as well to Evelyn.

I'm wrapping up preparations for the student presentation. Can't believe it's practically a week away. I'm really proud of their efforts!

Great weekend and ((hugs)) to all.

Thank you beautiful people! You are all so very sweet, kind and wonderful to think of my sister and our family.

I keep all of you in my thoughts and good wishes also.

Have a great weekend everyone. Very "fallish" already here in Colorado. It may even drizzle some snow tomorrow night. That's a little early for us,but bring it on! I have a lit pumpkin on my front porch already and the HUGE praying mantis living in one of my potted geraniums is loving the night light! He's freaking me out though, I want him to move to another spot soon. :)

Things went very well with the lawyer today. I'm very pleased, and believe that the entire process will go smoothly. :o)

I hope everyone enjoys their weekend.

Hey Paul,

Hope this finds it's way to you and you are well.

Watching re-runs of the show and heard you mention your restaurant. Is this correct and if so where is it? If not...why the hell not?

Great show, hoping for another season for us fans of great cooking shows.

Not p1ssing in the pocket here, but by far best cooking/foodie show on the box in a long time.

Any beer still being sold?

Cheers and take care,

Steve

I'm exhausted, the conference and my presentation went well and managed to keep those nerves more or less under control. Now if only that stack of student homework would grade and correct itself, that would be nice and if somehow those classes for tomorrow would prepare themselves ... I'd be the one napping on the couch instead of the cat- yep, I'm a tad envious of my cat. I'll even admit it!

Evelyn, glad that the conference went well; as a student I really liked it when the prof read my essay and made comments--now I see how much work that is. I still kept my papers from years ago bec of the comments. Sounds like a very serious topic to read about over and over with each paper.

All the PCs: I recommend a film titled "Razzle Dazzle" It is a mockumentary on the dance culture in Australia; Tara Morice is cast as a goth costume/props artist and Paul is cast as himself. You can see them side by side in the party scene and Paul has a very short but memorable role as Paul Mercurio (himself). Quirky movie in the tradition of Muriel's Wedding and some SB in it. Worth seeing for Tara and Paul are both in it!

Evelyn--glad that your presentation went well. I hear you about getting things prepared--my students will perform next Sunday and we did a run through this weekend. I ended up with a sinus infection early Friday and by the end of the run through Saturday afternoon, my sinuses were getting pretty achy. The students kept asking questions, which I'm very happy for, but my head was saying, "Lady get home and rest already!" LOL (I also hope I didn't give it to anyone!)

Liz, Grandma Mil mentioned Razzle Dazzle last year when it premiered in Australia. I never saw it in the US, and would certainly like to since both Tara and Paul are in it. I should check the foreign area of my rental store and see what comes up. :)

Grandma Mil here, acknowleging all the thoughts and prayers for our daughter, Leah. The holy days are over, but Ellie's weekly prayers continue.

Melody, I'll be thinking of you on Sunday as your
program opens...I am sure it will be spectacular!

I just ordered "Razzle Dazzle" from Amazon. Liz, thank you for reminding me. It became available in the U.S. mode,(NTSC) finally. Funny, hearing
about it 2 years ago, and learning that Tara and Paul had small parts, made me yearn for more; now Tara and Ondine have been here in Florida, and the premiere so fabulous, it is all very surreal.

MBF opens at the Ft. Lauderdale International Film Festival this coming Sunday and some Wynmoor people will be attendence. I read that I
will be introduced...that should be interesting..

How can I post pictures of the premiere of MBF on PC? Liz, Evelyn, how, how? I have pictures from digital cameras that came to me over the Internet.

"Follies 2009" will be presented in February, 2009. It may seem far away, but costumes are almost done, the show is in order, and I am convinced that it may surpass "Follies 2007" in its variety. I think I will ask Tara to come back and make "MBF Part 2".

Shalom and love,

Grandma Mil

Dear Grandma Millie,

if you email me the pictures, I can post them on my personal website and share the link with everyone here. Posting them here directly, Cat has the access for that to this site.

Still exhausted from this conference and preping for another one which is in 1 1/2 weeks and the week after that is our German immersion weekend which also has to get planned and organized between now an then... which is why I want October to be over already-just too many overload projects on top of a busy schedule but I will get through this and as of this morning, I have my sister's visit from Germany over the Holidays to look forward to-yeah! Back to grading, but first it's time for a coffee or tea!

Dear Grandma Millie,

if you email me the pictures, I can post them on my personal website and share the link with everyone here. Posting them here directly, Cat has the access for that to this site.

Still exhausted from this conference and preping for another one which is in 1 1/2 weeks and the week after that is our German immersion weekend which also has to get planned and organized between now an then... which is why I want October to be over already-just too many overload projects on top of a busy schedule but I will get through this and as of this morning, I have my sister's visit from Germany over the Holidays to look forward to-yeah! Back to grading, but first it's time for a coffee or tea!

Sorry about the double post, that was not intended. Here however is the link to 4 pictures that Grandma Millie sent me to post for your enjoyment: http://www.slu.edu/~emeyer16/MBF.html

Enjo!

Evelyn, I'm glad your conference went well. I hope grading the papers goes smoothly too. Thank you for posting the photos Grandma Mil sent to you.

Is it just me or does Tara look nearly the same as she did years ago in SB? Everyone looks lovely and happy in the photos. Thanks for sharing!

Melody, I hope you get better soon and get well enough for your performance this coming Sunday. I hope we get to see this year's pictures with you in costume.

Evelyn glad that you are taking breaks; so much happening at the Univ. If only you can train the cat to grade papers...

Grandma Mil, you look so lovely and Tara too. You and Ellie make a handsome couple. Thank you Evelyn for posting the pictures.

Razzle Dazzle is hilarious. But for the PCs having Paul and Tara is reason enough not to miss it.

Melody, I hope you get better soon and get well enough for your performance this coming Sunday. I hope we get to see this year's pictures with you in costume.

Evelyn glad that you are taking breaks; so much happening at the Univ. If only you can train the cat to grade papers...

Grandma Mil, you look so lovely and Tara too. You and Ellie make a handsome couple. Thank you Evelyn for posting the pictures.

Razzle Dazzle is hilarious. But for the PCs having Paul and Tara is reason enough not to miss it.

Melody, I hope you get better soon and get well enough for your performance this coming Sunday. I hope we get to see this year's pictures with you in costume.

Evelyn glad that you are taking breaks; so much happening at the Univ. If only you can train the cat to grade papers...

Grandma Mil, you look so lovely and Tara too. You and Ellie make a handsome couple. Thank you Evelyn for posting the pictures.

Razzle Dazzle is hilarious. But for the PCs having Paul and Tara is reason enough not to miss it.

Yes, thank you Evelyn for posting the pictures!

Tara sent me the ones from the premiere; Ondine, her daughter, took them including the one at the restaurant where we had breakfast before going to the airport for their trip home..sob, sob...

Shalm and love,

Grandma Mil

Grandma Mil, the pictures really look great. I agree that Tara doesn't look any different than from SB! Simply lovely! You and Ellie make a lovely couple, but I'm sure you've been hearing that since you both married. I agree with the caption--so glamourous!!!

Evelyn, thanks for setting these up for us to see.

We have another rehearsal tomorrow evening and then again on Saturday. I hope the students are excited as I am. They worked hard, their rhythms (or as Antonio Vargas says in SB "compas") are straight on (one must be "en compas" never "fuera" or out). Overall coordination and line are also good.

Now for them to enjoy their moment! Mil gracias for all PC wishes for their show. :)

I just LOVE the pictures! Thanks so much Evelyn for getting those up for us. I totally agree that Tara doesn't seem to have aged a year. She's so pretty! Beautiful is more appropriate. But Millie and Ellie are such a dynamic duo, aren't they? Wowie wow wow wow! I'd love to see the wedding pictures you spoke about some time ago Grandma.

My sister is in the hospital this week again. It's only day two and it's knocking her down already. Usually it takes about 3 days but I could tell that after this last round she wasn't strong enough to begin again in only 2 weeks. I wish they would pace it out a little bit more and let her body build back up. I have to hope the Dr.s know what they're doing. It's all a guessing game with medicine. I wish I had more faith.

Take care everyone.

MaryS you seem worried about your sister handling the treatment and not quite sure if the med team knows it is too hard on her body. May be good to ask them up front. There is always some uncertainty but you want to know what the odds are and what they are guessing on--usu they would be very straighforward about the medical "guesses" and bring your sister into the decision making. Your lack of faith is good as it will bring out the best in the team--often caregivers appreciate your questions and skepticism and respect your doubtfulness and will be able to ans your questions. But the ans may be tough to hear. Wishing you strength to be with your sister.

For the US PCs make sure that you are all set to vote(not telling you how to vote, just that your exercise your right to vote).

MaryS not wishing you strength as you already are strong but that you do not get depleted. Liz

MaryS--good to ask questions all the way around. Sometimes faith is knowing when to listen to oneself. We get those inner alerts for a reason.

Hopes and prayers for your sister to pull through.

Liz, I'm all set to vote. It's not just our country, it's also reaching globally. But I do want someone that will take better care of us at home, too. :)

Mary S. strength and healing to your sister and strength to you to support her and wisdom to know what to do for all of you!

I'm all set for telepathically voting all over the US, since I can't do it any other way! and believe me, there will be no paper trails :)

Yes, Evelyn, and no stealing of votes neither!

LOL

Yes, Evelyn, and no stealing of votes neither!

LOL

I won't steal votes, just add lots of votes for the candidate of my choice! I think Europe should elect the next US president for you guys! LOL

Thanks once again for the sage advice. I have spoken more with my brother-in-law, I must say than my own sister about the medical statistics and odds. I just cannot bear to speak too deeply with my sister on this. I am more so focused on being there for her and offering support and strength. As far as what my brother-in-law says, it's the best of both evils. 50/50 either way pretty much. Actually the odds are against us on this type of cancer and we are all aware of this. Thus I don't want to actually inflict more suffering on her than necessary. But our cancer knowledge and treatments are still much of a guessing game. Faith is definitely put on the medical field in these instances. I pray that they continue to see her as a human being and not a statistic.

I am watching the presidential debate. It's a crucial one and the tension is palpable. I am all set and only wish I would have volunteered this last six months to knock on doors. I was thinking that my candidate was a strong one but now it's McCain and Obama and once again the country is split in half. I have to say that if Clinton would have made it, it wouldn't have been this close, in my opinion. These guys have their work cut out for them. I'm all set and only wish I could vote about a million times instead of just once!

Wish us luck! This next four years and the following 10 after that are going to be quite a challenge.

I'm all set to vote also. Neither man was my first choice either, but the lesser of two evils seems to be the choice for me. My hubby didn't vote in either of the last two presidential elections and says he won't in this one either. I know lots of people take that stand, but sure wish he/they would get far more involved instead of less. One can't get 100% of what is wanted, but some is better than the alternative, I think.

I taped the debate as we were in rehearsal last night. As it was more domestic issues, it was the strongest of all three.

Our PBS also had a great 2 hour special on both candidates. It provided good insight into both men and I thought added balance to last night's debate. If PBS replays it before Election Day, I recommend it highly to U.S. PCs to check out.

I believe this election will draw more voters because so much is laying on the line here. All citizens of voting age need to get out there and be counted.

Just wanted to let everyone know that I'm back, safe and sound in my own house. I arrived home last night. Today I've just been in a state of total exhaustion.

I am registered to vote, and I'm with Marian on voting for the lesser of the two evils. Unfortunately I'm still trying to decide which on that is. LOL

Just wanted to let everyone know that I'm back, safe and sound in my own house. I arrived home last night. Today I've just been in a state of total exhaustion.

I am registered to vote, and I'm with Marian on voting for the lesser of the two evils. Unfortunately I'm still trying to decide which on that is. LOL

Sorry about the double post before. I love internet hiccups. LOL

Today I went for a glorious drive on Skyline Drive to see the Autumn colors. Even though the sky was overcast, it was still incredibly beautiful.

With rehearsals for "Follies' and things to do for
Tara on this end, I have been out of the loop, but I'm back now.

Mary, Ellie had Rebecca on his prayer list today, as every Saturday. You and she seem to echo his favorite phrase, "I shall not be beaten", and you know our thoughts and prayers are with you and her.

Melody, I am sure your show will be fabulous! (I
hate that saying, "break a leg", especially for dance shows...ole!) In my next "Follies" my flameco dancer (professional, but she teaches arobics in her spare time) will do a remarkable dance, combining ballet and flamenco to the theme of "Love Story".

Sarah, glad you're home safe and sound. You got to Florida, right, but not far south enough!

Tomorrow is the opening of MBF at the Fort Lauderdale Film Festival at 11 a.m. It should be quite an experience. I understand the theatre
(Cinema Paradiso) is quite a venue, with stadium
seating and large screen. As MBF is made for TV,
it will be a thrill to have it shown on a regular screen.

Tara told me that SBS has already started to advertise MBF on its website,(SBS.com) slated for the date, November 7th, 7:30 p.m. Once MBF has made its debut, it can be ordered from this website.

Tomorrow night I will be interviewed from Australia by telephone.

It is for a weekly news magazine, "That's Life" which, like here in the U.S., is found at newstands and on checking out counters of grocery
stores. It is going to be an exclusive article, I was told. I understand it goes out to over a million people..the publicity for MBF doesn't hurt!

I don't know the questions, but will speak from the heart, very easy with Tara and the story of
MBF. The magazine is not a rag like the National
Inquirer and all those U.S. gossip magazines.

It is read mostly by women, 25+ and the guy that will interview me says the story of MBF will
interest young (and old) people who have ever yearned to meet their idols in person..how lucky can this old broad be??

Shalom and love,

Grandma Mil

Pardon me, I just had a senior moment in my last post.

How to get the SBS TV Network site...

www.SBS.com.au

Shalom and Love,

Grandma Mil

Thanks, Millie--we had a good rehearsal today and I'm very pleased with everything. We have live music and our singer and guitarist never worked together before, so we had some down time while they smoothed transitions. The students were right on despite these moments.

We'll have a lovely day and our fall colors are just lovely. Fall has become my favorite time of year--especially when some of our trees become a deep russet. These are most beautiful. (With that, Sarah, I envy your drive.)

Happy weekend all!

(When I have some pictures, I'll post a link for them.)

Good luck on your interview Grandma Mil. Can they publish your article online so we can read it? I'll look for it once it is published and post it for you.

Good luck on your performance, Melody. Will wait for the pictures. Will there be videos with you dancing?

I am atrying to make the Mummy Meatloaf that Cat had posted on her site. It looks easy enough but the mummy wrapping is a challenge.

Chookas!!! As Paul and the Australians would say.

I know this is not a political forum, but some of you did say that you are undecided re voting for president; being such wonderful women, esp being PCs--young women like Sarah, MaryS with her LA-CO ties, who state she is choosing among equally bad options, or Marian who is undecided, I ask that you look into the info re the candidates with a critical eye so you can make a wise choice, a choice that will impact generations to come; here are hopefully some useful links:

http://www.democracynow.org/
http:/http://www.moveon.org/
/www.npr.org/templates/topics/topic.php?topicId=1001

I am not pushing an agenda only that you keep an open mind and pay attention and make your choice. Thank you. Liz.

reposting (as the prior one's messed up) the links for anyone interested and trying to make up your mind; let me know if you want to discuss anything.

http://www.npr.org/templates/topics/topic.php?topicId=1001

http://pol.moveon.org/event/events/index.html?action_id=144

http://www.democracynow.org/

Dearest Millie and Ellie. Thank you so much for your prayers. I read what you said in your post to my sister today. She came home from her 5 day hospital stay on Saturday. She thanks you from the bottom of her heart for your kindness, as do I.

Millie, you are really a celebrity young lady! I bet the interview will be very cool.

Liz, thanks for the info. I am a member of moveon, but regret to say that I have not had the time or energy to do what I wanted to do for the election. I wanted to try to make a difference by going door to door, while enjoying getting some face to face time with my community, and at the same time getting some exercise! I am very excited about the way things are going, even though I really do wish the candidates would just learn to campaign without trying to slander their opponents. It's so dirty and it's why so many are turned off to politics. I like to say that I am patriotic but not political. I wish they would stick to making us proud to be Americans, instead stooping to a place that makes us embarrassed to be so.

I hope you are all in the spirit of the seasonal changes here in the U.S. For those in other countries, what is this time of year like where you live?

I have a new next door neighbor, who I really think is making an excellent first impression on me. He bought the home, and immediately improved it. Today I was wondering why my kitchen and living room looked so nice and sunny and when I went out in to the backyard to do a little watering, I realized why this was. He trimmed his huge silver leaf maple tree and it looks so nice! It was beginning to flow over the fence into my yard! I love it!

Have a great week everyone. I am off work this week until Friday. I have my normal "weekend" which is Sun, Mon and Tues, and I took Wed and Thursday off as vacation day! I should have taken the entire week off but others were out of the office on Friday and I always have to work on my Saturdays, since I am alone in the office on that day. I have to make arrangements far in advance if I want a Saturday off. Anyway, have a good week everyone!

Paul,

I have been a big fan of yours for years, having watching Strictly Ballroom a few hundred times, including this morning while waiting for my 10 loaves of bread to proof and bake. I am not one to usually look up those who I admire, but your stage presence, dancing and all around persona is just mesmerizing. Then I come here and find out you cook too... be still my heart!

Kudos to you for being a well rounded person. I so hope to see more of you, your dancing, and any other projects you currently have going.

You are just a treasure. Thank you for being true to your talents.

Cynthia

PS: The Sarah I was referring to is our PC Sarah, who is young and undecided and is from VA or FL? Sarah did I get your state right?Thanks.

Cynthia--welcome to PC!

It's interesting how right now in my life, I have to part with things, animals, partners that I have been for a long time (oK the partner wasn't so long..) My car died on Saturday, so the last two days were spent trying to figure out what to do, what I can afford, what kind of car I want, picking up a rental car (and believe me public transportation isn't that great here in St. Louis and Sunday, really only the airport rental car places are open, nice 20 minute walk to the metrolink ...) and today negotiated for a new car and managed to get a variety of discounts and reductions thrown in. I'm pleased with myself and my very new car although I feel like someone who just got her license, since the clutch and break are soooo very different. Exhausted, but on that level, very pleased with myself. Now if I can cram 3 days of work into one, that would be good! but sleep first ... I hope this is the last big loss for a while, I know saying that about a car is strange, but after what happened in the past 15 months, it's a pattern that makes me somewhat edgy.

I see that you have had losses over the past year, the kitten, the partner, and now the car; I also see a new pattern of starting over with a new kitten that grades papers, a car that is NOT automatic (what!!), new students in your class, the new boyfriend may be the next change and I am on the edge of my seat to find out what your next post will be.

By the way what is a German Immersion Week--beer and Oktoberfest with more beer comes to mind.

MaryS You seem to have a good neighbor--I sense he's a good neighbor--but do I sense Love Is In the Air too for you???Love arises out of trimmed boughs and neigborly fences.. Glad that you are part of MoveOn.Org, MaryS.

As for me I am in a good relationship for 8 yrs--found him when I was not looking. I don't talk much about my life as I am not used to talking about my life--in the family I grew up in we just did not tell as many stories; that is prob why I love listening to people's stories.

Welcome Cynthia--I can relate to watching Strictly Ballroom countless times. I know the dialogue but I thingk G. Mil can beat me with knowing all the lines.

Pcs Hello, I am trying to find a way to be able to pass the Mercurio´s menu I received for all of you. When I can, contact all. Health for all!

Pcs Hello, I am trying to find a way to be able to pass the Mercurio´s menu I received for all of you. When I can, contact all. Health for all!

Liz, how did you know that I didn't buy an automatic transmission car?!? I never have and most likely never will. I'm an manual transmission kind of girl! Thanks for that perspective, that it's not just about loss, but about beginnings of new journeys too.

German immersion weekend, well what you describe is what the students would like it to be :) It's a weekend where we take the students in third semester and higher German classes out of town to a conference center (really in the middle of nowhere, yep, no cell phone reception oh those very poor students!!!) that belongs to my uni and it's all German, cooking German food, speaking German, games and different activities, a German film night, bon fire and since it overlaps with Halloween, we are doing some German horror stories at the bonfire etc. It's a lot of fun but very exhausting. I need suggestions for a Halloween costume, but it needs to be something I can cook in, since I'm appointed head cook and have to cook for about 40 people. Kind of leaning towards a medieval monk habit, now if I can find one of those, although I will not cut my hair in the tonsure style!

Happy for you that you are in a relationship and that it works for you. I met the ex when I wasn't looking either, but ... weird thing right now is that as tense and painful as things are for him and me obviously, we don't seem to really be able to walk away from each other, even though right now the emotions are so raw and we really annoy the crap out of each other in an attempt to be nice to each other an get through this somehow. Quite frankly, I don't get myself at the moment, because I'm totally capable of walking away from people when I need to but somehow I can't from him no matter how hard I try, and even not doing anything other than pull away to protect myself isn't working either. The only thing I know that we both want this negative dynamic to stop but neither one of us has a clue on how to do that. Time out is about the only thing that comes to mind to let things settle and calm down, ... majorly confused me!

Liz,

I like your active imagination, but my neighbor is a married man! LOL. I think that BOTH he and his wife will be good neighbors because it seems that they have pride of ownership. That's important to me. My neighbors and I rarely speak. We are friendly and I have to say that my young male homeowner neighbors have helped me during blizzards with shoveling snow, so they are very kind. It's just that we all have such busy lives and such different schedules that there is no time for visiting much.

I had to show my new neighbors that I am also someone who cares about my home by spending an hour raking leaves from my maple tree today. Our yards meet and they have a small tree that's not messy, while I had a layer of leaves that spread into their yard. I'll have to do that at least 3 more times before my tree is finally bare for the season. My backyard has a thick layer of leaves that I'll have to attack in the next few days. It's a lot of work. My back is sore this evening. I wish we had youngsters around who want to earn a few bucks. I would gladly pay a kid to do that job!

It's getting cold here! We may get a little snow tonight!

Liz,

I like your active imagination, but my neighbor is a married man! LOL. I think that BOTH he and his wife will be good neighbors because it seems that they have pride of ownership. That's important to me. My neighbors and I rarely speak. We are friendly and I have to say that my young male homeowner neighbors have helped me during blizzards with shoveling snow, so they are very kind. It's just that we all have such busy lives and such different schedules that there is no time for visiting much.

I had to show my new neighbors that I am also someone who cares about my home by spending an hour raking leaves from my maple tree today. Our yards meet and they have a small tree that's not messy, while I had a layer of leaves that spread into their yard. I'll have to do that at least 3 more times before my tree is finally bare for the season. My backyard has a thick layer of leaves that I'll have to attack in the next few days. It's a lot of work. My back is sore this evening. I wish we had youngsters around who want to earn a few bucks. I would gladly pay a kid to do that job!

It's getting cold here! We may get a little snow tonight!

My Dear "Chickies",

I dare not comment or offer advice, but I do sit back and ponder each post.

I am much too old to be a sage anyway, but you all
exibit much spunk, creativity, care for others, humor and humility, and that I deeply admire!

Update on MBF: It was shown at the Ft. Lauderdale
International Film Festival last Sunday morning, and among the audience, the tears were evident, and laughter too; the management is having another
showing next Wednesday 6:00 p.m; it touched everyone so much. Tara was breathtaking on screen
telling her side of the story as well as mine.

I had forgotten about some of our interactions with each other as she questioned me about my life; in our apartment, and sitting outside in a
lovely shady spot she was so kind, so gentle, so loving. Our lives, though a generation apart and
an ocean apart, had similarities, and that's what
is so amazing.

The early years of the making of SB are there, Paul, and so are you, you handsome you..

November 7th is coming up..(the Australian TV premiere of MBF on SBS television, prime time, 7:30 p.m.)

In the meantime, I had that hour interview with an
Australian writer for the Aussie newsstand magazine, "That's Life". It will be an exclusive
story. The interviewer was very kind and let me go
on and on, how Tara and I started our mail corrrespondence 6 years ago, and how it evolved into the making of MBF and how it felt meeting her in person and spending
time with her.

In one of the interviews outdoors, Tara asks me, "it is said that if one meets his (or her) idol in person, it will be a disappointment."

I retorted with an empatic, "wrong, wrong!..it seems strange that an old lady like me would look upon a lovely young woman like you as an idol, but I do, for I admired your work in Strictly Ballroom and beyond..." Aside from her acting, she is a beautiful person, loving, kind, a
wonderful mother, and very, very brave and smart to have brought MBF to fruition after all these months filled at first with delays and frustration.

Melody, how did your show go..I'll bet it was a hit!

Shalom and love,

Grandma Mil

Catching up on posts here--

Maria, if you find a way to send Merc's Menu to us, please do! Would love to see Paul's cooking expertise on screen! (I wonder if these were demo DVDs they sent you?)

Evelyn, I liked how you said this: "Quite frankly, I don't get myself at the moment, because I'm totally capable of walking away from people when I need to but somehow I can't from him no matter how hard I try . . . " I was with my man for many years until he had what can only be described as "mid-life crisis". We remain in touch and have seen each other from time to time, but due to that "crisis" he went through and what it did to our relationship (and my heart), I just can't pick up the pieces so easily and reconcile. And I can't completely close the door. (sigh)

Grandma Mil--I'm glad the showing went so well that another is scheduled. I join PCs in hoping to order MBF soon and see this wonderful film for ourselves.

As for the show--while I expected my advanced dancers to do well, my basics really rose to the occasion and brought the house down with their Tangos (not to be confused with Ballroom or Argentinian Tangos). They went into their ending counter rhythms and really excelerated their tempo, but kept in countertime perfectly, and the audience went absolutely wild.

I was practically in tears as they were so "careful" in rehearsals--boy did they break loose! What a wonderful conclusion to our year.

Really awesome!

Wishing PCs (and Paul) a great week.

Liz, I love being referred to as "young" at age 36. Sorry for the confusion on where I reside. I live in VA, but I was in FL settling my father's estate. (I grew up in FL.)

I'm currently in NY visiting a friend. I'll head home to VA tomorrow.

Back in VA. We've had rain since last night, but we can always use a bit of precipitation.

I hope you are all enjoying your weekend. It's a bit quiet here. ;o)

Sarah, I'm sure you're glad to be back home. It became pretty cold here in Chicago. Dropped almost 20 degrees since earlier today.

I took a nice drive up to Wisconsin (Lake Geneva area)--took in the lovely colors. I especially enjoy the trees that turn orange, into crimson or even russet along with some trees that keep their deep green hues. We have some beautiful splashes of color in Illinois and Wisconsin--I really enjoy taking it all in.

Good week to all!

Melody, I miss that changing of the colors from up north, lived in MN for 12 years. I've never seen the colors that intense as up there. Lake Geneva, I know where that is, I have relatives in Kenosha which isn't that far off from there. This FR - SAT I had to got to an academic conference at Lake of the Ozarks in central MO and was hoping that the colors would be a bit further along, as it's beautiful country out there, but alas, there was very little yet, but it was still beautiful. Crystal clear blue sky, fresh air that you never quite get that way in the city. That morning walk was lovely though-but why did they have to build up that lake, there's hardly any way to walk around it, just lots of docks for boats :(

Another hectic week and then hopefully things will slow down a bit as October has been insanely hectic. This has now been the 4th or 5th weekend in a row where I had to work straight through and got no down time. It's 9 PM and I still have to plan another class tomorrow. I will get to that now and then enjoy my comfy bed. OUtside the temps are dropping from about 68 this afternoon to 30 tomorrow morning. Not sure I like that, but it will be OK. As long as there's no snow just yet!

Be well everyone!

OK, US PCs--if the US version of DWTS can have Irish dancer Michael Flatley as a judge, why not our Paul???????

(Michael was born, raised and trained here in Chicago with the Dennehey Irish Dancers prior to Riverdance fame.)

We've been having some nice color here in VA. If you click on my name you can see some of my pictures from my day trip along Skyline Drive prior to my visit to NYC. It was an overcast day, but it was still beautiful. I wish we would have a glorious sunny day so I can go back up before all the leaves fall.

Melody, it is possible that Paul doesn't want to come to the US to judge DWTS. ;o)

Sarah, thanks for the nice VA pictures; we have the same spectacular colors here too; last nonfreezing hike in the woods over the weekeend--forgot to carry thermos of coffee.

Evelyn I see your contradictoriness so intensely in your writing--must be both blissful and hurtful to be in this relationship; DO NOT GET A TONSURE HAIRDO PLEASE. Do not do this even if it is consistent with the medieval theme. Hope you have a great time contradicting in the wilderness.

Melody, love your description of the russett colors and the story about the boyfriend that you just could not take back into a relationship--it is like Evelyn's contradiction. Can't wait to see the pictures of your show.

For the PCs here's Paul with reviews but it is months long--but you can here him speak with his adorable voice and Aussie accent. see next post.

http://www.96fm.com.au/index.php/win/index/140

http://www.96fm.com.au/index.php/win/index/140

Sarah, that is a good point concerning Paul and DWTS . . . is there such a thing as temporary insanity when wishful thinking? :)

Your pictures are lovely--I love mountainscapes!

Liz, will check that link out. Thanks for finding!

Hello to all,

Sorry for dissapearing for awhile.

Grandma Millie contacted me this morning and I'll be joining her and Ellie at Cinima Paradiso tonight for another showing of MBF.

Unfortunatly as Millie explained I was unable to get together with them that afternoon before the premier for they had some technical difficulty with some film equiptment and had to run to Radio-Shack to find the parts.

Later that same afternoon my dog Ginger became severely ill and my husband and I had to run her to the vet. She had been battling a heart condition for two years and that week-end she went through kidney failure and died that Sunday. I did write a piece in my blog about it,

http://weblog.xanga.com/JAC297/676449320/take-the-greyhound-challengei-did-and-it-changed-my-life.html

I didn't want my tragic turn of events to ruin what should be a celebration of Millie and her work, SB and a tribute to its actors.

But tonight I hope to capture Millie and Ellie in front of our local Cinima Paradiso. It should make for a great picture and I'll post it on my blog (if its ok with Millie) to share with all of PC.

And it would be great to Tara to do the honor of letting me take her portrait when she returns. And maybe she'll join me at Waxy's for a drink (don't ge too nervous Millie I'll make sure that Guy and David are on their best behavior and we'll see if we can get the VIP table fixed so it doesn't wobble when she comes ;))

I'm sure Paul's jealous already.

Julie

My sincerest sympathies to you Julie! I went through that in April with my beloved cat Freyja, kidney failure. It was sad but it was her time. Hope you can enjoy happy memories of your dog and when the time is right allow for a new dog to take his/her place. I have done this in the meantime and it's great to have Chloé here even if she jumps on me and tries to bite me every once in a while. But of course she does it in an adorable way :( trying to wean her from that nonetheless.

Julie,

So sorry for your loss. One long, loving relationship with a pet is sometimes more valuable than 10 with a human. I hope that you and your husband/family are doing adjusting to Ginger's passing. I sure hope that the place we all "pass" to is a place of happiness and peace and that we somehow will all meet again. But at any rate, we keep the memories and should try to focus on the happy times.

Enjoy the showing of MBF and give Millie and Ellie a big kiss on the cheek from me!

I imagine Paul is immersed in t.v. land and I hope he is working hard and enjoying himself!!

OOoooh.. Michael Flatley. Wonder what his comments are like?!! Is he brash? Quiet? kind?

The judges that get my wick are those who stick it to people with a goad.

Grandma Mil, "sage" is good, or is the word "crone"? I find I get feistier, the older I get. Something to do with having less to lose :)

Glad everything went so well, and that you mananged to quell the quivering....

US PC's... am watching your elections with great interest. cannot complain that times are boring.

Amazing when you compare photos, how much Obama has greyed in the last few months. Even faster than Clinton did.

Yup, Julie was at the film festival, and we kept her busy taking photos of Ellie and me and some friends. It was a very small audience; it was the second time the Festival played MBF and it
was scheduled for 6:00 p.m. not the best time for working film buffs.

After we got home, I was interviwed by a reporter
from our local newspapers,"The Sun Sentinal and the "Palm Beach Post"; The writer came to our home and we talked over an hour about Tara and me and the making of MBF. The article will appear in these two Floridian papers this weekend in their special entertainment sections.

Paul, Popsy Albert chaired a big charity event for 200 veddy veddy well heeled people the other night in Sydney, and Tara was there and so was MBF. Tara told me the audience went bananas, and they laughed and cried, etc., etc. It's good publicity for the opening on SBS November 7th.

(Popsy Albert is the widow of Ted Albert who engineered the making of "Strictly Ballroom." He died suddenly before the start of the film, and Popsy took over. Ted Albert ran an immensely large music publishing company in Australia.)

Until later, chao, and stay well, everyone..winter
is acomin' except here in Florida where the flowers are bloomin'...

Shalom and love,

Grandma Mil

Hi Folks!

Here's the link to my blog about the showing last night of MBF in Fort Lauderdale.

http://weblog.xanga.com/JAC297/680316427/and-then-came-millie.html

best to all!

Julie