March 4, 1966 - "Snowstorm of the century in Winnipeg. 35Cm's snow fell and winds reached 120 km/h. The city was paralyzed for 2 days." This is a quote from; http://www.dandantheweatherman.com/cantriv.html#mar That was 13 inches of snow and 75mph winds!
The local radio and TV stations were constantly giving updates and allowing people to call in live on air and let family/friends know where they were and that they were safe. People and communities pulled together to take care of each other and especially those that were stranded.
A year or so ago, I was waiting at a bus stop during a snowfall and the elderly gentleman (whom I frequently cross paths with while grocery shopping) who was with me started telling me about being stranded at the downtown Eaton's store during that blizzard. Most of the employees and a number of customers stayed there for two days. They pretty much had the run of the store but no one took advantage of the situation. They played cards, board games, read, watched TV or listened to the radio. Eaton's was a large department store which sold everything from appliances, furniture, linens, clothing to food. There were also a couple of restaurants within the store. So I guess if you had to be stranded away from home that was a pretty good place to be!
I wasn't very old when that storm hit, but I remember it well. We were storm stayed on the farm for days! It was several days before the school buses started running and I can vividly recall the bus going by plowed banks that were as high as the bus in places. It was awesome and a bit terrifying at the same time to see that much snow!
My dad had to use the front end loader on the tractor to clean out the lane. He piled a HUGE bank up along side the barn, then he and my brother made a toboggan run from near the roof down to the nearby creek. There was even a bit of an angled curve and bank about halfway down so that you could slide even further along the creek bed if you had a good run! They even built snow steps so it would be easier getting back up to the top. Over the next several weekends our place was pretty popular among friends, neighbours and family, as everybody wanted to try the newest run. People brought coffee, hot chocolate, baking and lots of other goodies to keep all warm and happy while we enjoyed the snow.
Manitoba winters are long and Winnipeg has had the nickname of "Winterpeg" for as long as I can remember! It's almost like a badge of honour to survive the winters here! There is a possibility of snow today but no blizzard in the forecast! Even if there were, we are a tough bunch.
dn
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Monday, March 3, 2008
Happy Birthday Mr. Bell!
We've come a long way since the days of "smoke signals" and "One if by land, two if by sea". Even Western Union no longer delivers telegrams. Communication has grown leaps and bounds since Alexander Graham Bell received the first patent (Patent Number 174,465 was issued to Bell on March 7, 1876 by the U. S. Patent office).
Alexander Graham Bell was born on this date in 1847. He died at age 75 in 1922. He saw a lot of changes and advancements in the 46 years after that first patent. I can't help but wonder what he'd think of all the new fangled phones and their gadgets on the market now and the so called improvements in phone services.
As you know, I grew up on a farm. I've heard my parents talk about the old days of having to crank the phone to get the operator. When I was a kid, we had what was called a party line. Several households would share the same line. Each home had its own ring. Ours was "two long rings". There were usually four to six homes on a line (2 or 3 on each side of the line to avoid a lot of confusing rings) as it was way to expensive to even consider having a private line. It eventually got down to two/line and private lines finally arrived in the early 1990's in our area.
It was a bit of a pain trying to call a neighbour. You had to dial their number, then hang up and let the phone ring until it quit ringing which meant the other person had answered. You had to try to remember to answer in the middle of a ring to give a clear signal.
Alexander Graham Bell was born on this date in 1847. He died at age 75 in 1922. He saw a lot of changes and advancements in the 46 years after that first patent. I can't help but wonder what he'd think of all the new fangled phones and their gadgets on the market now and the so called improvements in phone services.
As you know, I grew up on a farm. I've heard my parents talk about the old days of having to crank the phone to get the operator. When I was a kid, we had what was called a party line. Several households would share the same line. Each home had its own ring. Ours was "two long rings". There were usually four to six homes on a line (2 or 3 on each side of the line to avoid a lot of confusing rings) as it was way to expensive to even consider having a private line. It eventually got down to two/line and private lines finally arrived in the early 1990's in our area.
It was a bit of a pain trying to call a neighbour. You had to dial their number, then hang up and let the phone ring until it quit ringing which meant the other person had answered. You had to try to remember to answer in the middle of a ring to give a clear signal.
The biggest disadvantage for most was that you could not have a private conversation without someone picking up the phone and saying "Is the line busy?" or "How long are you going to be?" The priority was supposed to be given to business, emergencies and long distance but not everyone was that respectful.
Eavesdropping was very common. Usually you could tell when someone else was on the line as the quality of the connection wasn't quite as good. Most eavesdroppers would hold their hand or a cloth over the receiver to prevent unwanted breathing noises from giving them away. My parents used to talk about one neighbour who loved to "listen in". He would be on his chesterfield listening and sometimes fall asleep and start snoring into the phone!
Radio often made fun of the telephone and the mostly women operators who helped direct all those phone calls. Probably the most famous radio "operator" that was never heard was on "Fibber McGee and Molly". Wikipedia has this to say;
"Myrtle, also known as "Myrt" - a never-heard telephone operator that Fibber is friends with. A typical Myrt sketch started with Fibber picking up the phone and demanding, "Operator, give me number 32Oooh, is that you, Myrt? How's every little thing Myrt?" Commonly, this was followed with Fibber relaying what Myrt was telling him to Molly, usually news about Myrt's family, and always ending with a bad pun. Myrtle made one brief on-air appearance on June 22, 1943 when she visited the McGee's to wish them a good summer--the McGee's did not recognize her in person."
Television also had some famous operators. Harriet Oleson on "Little House on the Prairie" had great facial expressions as she listened in and got the latest town gossip from the people of Walnut Grove! "M*A*S*H*" had Radar O'Reilly and in later years Klinger to keep track of the goings on at the 4077th.
My favourite telephone operator, hands down is Lily Tomlin's
character "Ernestine" These quotes are from Wikipedia:
-One ringy dingy... two ringy dingy.
-Have I reached the party to whom I am speaking?"
-One ringy dingy... two ringy dingy.
-Have I reached the party to whom I am speaking?"
-The phone company handles 84 billion calls a year, everything
from kings, queens, and presidents to the scum of the earth.
-How may I, in all humble servitude, be of assistance?-What's that Mr. Veedle? Privileged information?... that's so cute.
-You're dealing with the phone company, Mr. Veedle. We are not bound by city, state, or federal regulations. We are omnipotent.
-You are not dealing with just anyone's fool. I am a high-school graduate.
-Don't hang up. You've angered me, and when you anger me you anger the phone company and all the power necessary to tie up your lines for the next fifty years. Do I make myself clear?
-Well Mr. Bush, it may be true that Mr. Kerry avoided being in a war, but at least he didn't start one. (At a political event doing a sketch pretending to transfer a call by George W. Bush.
-How may I, in all humble servitude, be of assistance?-What's that Mr. Veedle? Privileged information?... that's so cute.
-You're dealing with the phone company, Mr. Veedle. We are not bound by city, state, or federal regulations. We are omnipotent.
-You are not dealing with just anyone's fool. I am a high-school graduate.
-Don't hang up. You've angered me, and when you anger me you anger the phone company and all the power necessary to tie up your lines for the next fifty years. Do I make myself clear?
-Well Mr. Bush, it may be true that Mr. Kerry avoided being in a war, but at least he didn't start one. (At a political event doing a sketch pretending to transfer a call by George W. Bush.
You can read more about Ernestine and Lily Tomlin at;
Somehow, I don't think this is quite what Mr. Bell had in mind!
dn
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Nostalgia Radio
Yesterday, I told you about my love for the music of the big bands and standards. Many large cities have a radio station that is devoted to this music and there are several options on line to listen live or download syndicated programs.
If you are lucky enough to live in the city of Winnipeg, then you may have heard of my favourite radio station. CJNU 104.7FM which broadcasts on 40 watts of power for up to 28 days/month in support of various community organizations. The station is Manitoba's FIRST cooperative radio station. It is owned and operated by it's members.
The following is a quote from the "About CJNU" page of the web site;
"We operate with a special events broadcast license issued by Industry Canada. Meeting our license terms, each broadcast is 3 to 4 weeks long and is in support of a non-profit event or organization"
Nostalgia radio has been around Winnipeg for a number of years, under various call letters and numbers on the dial, but it's listeners are very loyal and vocal in their support for the wonderful music and programing that the very knowledgeable and entertaining announcers provide. The on-air personalities include veteran announcers like; Lee Major; Brett Buckingham; Gren Marsh; Don Milne; Craig Krastel; and Garry Robertson. The youngest of the more than 20 on-air folks is 18 year old Scott Best who has an incredible knowledge and obvious passion for the music he plays. He is definitely introducing the younger generations to the nostalgia format.
Thursday is mystery and suspense and offers such classics as: "The Shadow"; The Green Hornet"; "Boston Blackie"; "Sam Spade"; "The Thin Man" and many more.
Friday night is variety which offers a little bit of everything. You may here: "Kraft Music Hall"; "Fred Allen"; "Bob Hope" or any number of other shows in any genre.
On Sunday nights from 8 - 10:00PM you will be treated to "Denny Farrell and the Original Big Band Showcase". Denny Farrell plays a lot of rare pieces that you may not hear elsewhere.
Over the last year or so, CJNU has broadcast on behalf of; Winnipeg Harvest; The Winnipeg Humane Society; Goodwill Industries; Stroke Recovery Association of Manitoba (SAM); Alzheimer's Society of Manitoba; Rainbow Stage; and many more.The March broadcast is in support of the MS Society of Canada, Manitoba Division.
CJNU is a breath of fresh air in a land of rock and talk radio stations. You may hear a song that stirs a memory or starts your foot tapping. You'll discover/rediscover singers, performers and programs from the golden age of radio!
So whether it's a trip down memory lane or the beginning of a new journey in listening pleasure, set your radio dial to 104.7FM. If you like what you hear - and why wouldn't you - then please consider becoming a member of "Nostalgia Broadcasting Cooperative". It really is the best radio station in Winnipeg!
For more info on the station, membership, programing, sponsors and advertising rates, please go to:
http://www.cjnu.ca/
dn
If you are lucky enough to live in the city of Winnipeg, then you may have heard of my favourite radio station. CJNU 104.7FM which broadcasts on 40 watts of power for up to 28 days/month in support of various community organizations. The station is Manitoba's FIRST cooperative radio station. It is owned and operated by it's members.
The following is a quote from the "About CJNU" page of the web site;
"We operate with a special events broadcast license issued by Industry Canada. Meeting our license terms, each broadcast is 3 to 4 weeks long and is in support of a non-profit event or organization"
Nostalgia radio has been around Winnipeg for a number of years, under various call letters and numbers on the dial, but it's listeners are very loyal and vocal in their support for the wonderful music and programing that the very knowledgeable and entertaining announcers provide. The on-air personalities include veteran announcers like; Lee Major; Brett Buckingham; Gren Marsh; Don Milne; Craig Krastel; and Garry Robertson. The youngest of the more than 20 on-air folks is 18 year old Scott Best who has an incredible knowledge and obvious passion for the music he plays. He is definitely introducing the younger generations to the nostalgia format.
Although Big Band and Standards is the main musical focus, CJNU also plays the early Rock & Roll music of the 50's and 60's and even into the early 70's with artists like; Buddy Holly; Ray Charles; Dusty Springfield; Etta James; The Temptations and The Mama's and The Papa's.. You'll also hear a bit of country with artists such as Patsy Cline, Don Williams, Crystal Gayle and The Statler Brothers. You'll hear cross over artists like Eddie Rabbitt; Roy Orbison and John Denver. Canadian artists include Diana Krall; Michael Bublé; kd lang; Holly Cole;and Gordon Lightfoot.
Weekday evenings, from 9 - 10:00PM, (repeated at 2:AM the following morning) CJNU presents "Frank Liebzeit's Radio Classics". Theater for the mind! Every night has a theme.
Monday is theater and drama night. The most frequent program to air in this time slot is "Lux Presents Hollywood" where stars recreate the popular movies of the time for radio broadcast.
Tuesday is western night, with shows such as; "The Lone Ranger"; " Have Gun Will Travel"; "The Cisco Kid"; "Gunsmoke"...
Wednesday night is comedy and probably has the widest selection of shows that include; "Our Miss Brooks"; "Fibber McGee and Molly"; "Burns and Allen"; "Jack Benny"; "Ozzie and Harriet" and many more.Thursday is mystery and suspense and offers such classics as: "The Shadow"; The Green Hornet"; "Boston Blackie"; "Sam Spade"; "The Thin Man" and many more.
Friday night is variety which offers a little bit of everything. You may here: "Kraft Music Hall"; "Fred Allen"; "Bob Hope" or any number of other shows in any genre.
On Sunday nights from 8 - 10:00PM you will be treated to "Denny Farrell and the Original Big Band Showcase". Denny Farrell plays a lot of rare pieces that you may not hear elsewhere.
Over the last year or so, CJNU has broadcast on behalf of; Winnipeg Harvest; The Winnipeg Humane Society; Goodwill Industries; Stroke Recovery Association of Manitoba (SAM); Alzheimer's Society of Manitoba; Rainbow Stage; and many more.The March broadcast is in support of the MS Society of Canada, Manitoba Division.
CJNU is a breath of fresh air in a land of rock and talk radio stations. You may hear a song that stirs a memory or starts your foot tapping. You'll discover/rediscover singers, performers and programs from the golden age of radio!
So whether it's a trip down memory lane or the beginning of a new journey in listening pleasure, set your radio dial to 104.7FM. If you like what you hear - and why wouldn't you - then please consider becoming a member of "Nostalgia Broadcasting Cooperative". It really is the best radio station in Winnipeg!
For more info on the station, membership, programing, sponsors and advertising rates, please go to:
http://www.cjnu.ca/
dn
Saturday, March 1, 2008
My music tastes are very eclectic. I grew up listening to the local Rock & Roll stations CKRC and CKY. When disco and hard rock came in during the late 70's, I switched to country on an FM station (CHMM FM) and stayed there till the late 80's when a friend got me listening to CBC and that got me listening to folk and light jazz. (Listened to some classical but drew the line with opera!) That eventually led me to my true love of nostalgia and big band - where I've been for about 15 years now.
Don't get me wrong, I still have a lot of those other genres on my media player and mp3, but the music of the big band era is almost always my first choice. I got an mp3 for Christmas and before you ask - NO, I do not walk around outside with the headphones on! I have it connected to my living room stereo so I can listen when I'm there or in the kitchen.
There is just something about that music that I find very appealing. There were so many talented performers of that era! Whether it was a ballad or something with a great beat, serious, or light it is really hard not to fall in love with this genre if you just give it a chance.
A few of my favourites are;
Glenn Miller - an incredibly talented band leader and arranger who gave us a wonderful collection of Big Band numbers in the few short years that he had. A genius who was taken far too soon. I have over 60 of his songs on mp3 and two of my fav's are "In the Mood" and "String of Pearls"
Rosemary Clooney - had an amazing set of pipes and gave us decades of beautiful music with songs like; "Hey There"; and "Half As Much".
Louis Armstrong - Satchmo never intended to be a singer, just a man with a horn. He was gifted in both areas. Whether he was on his own with songs like "What a Wonderful World" or doing duets with Ella Fitzgerald such as "Cheek to Cheek" his voice was unmistakable and his talent was obvious.
Nat King Cole - Talk about smooth! This man who gave us "The Christmas Song" ("Chestnuts roasting..") had a voice that truly is "Unforgetable"!
There are probably at least 50 more artists that I could name as I have about 575 songs of the era on mp3, but I will just list a few; Billie Holiday; Dinah Washington; Peggy Lee; Jo Stafford; Julie London; Bing Crosby; Al Jolson; The Mills Brothers; The Ink Spots;The McGuire Sisters; The Andrew Sisters; Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman and Chet Baker.
These were the kings and queens of the time. They brought the gift of music to a troubled world. Every generation has its stars and some shine brighter and longer than others. More than 50 years later, their music is still played and loved by millions. This is the music of my parents generation. I will freely admit that as a kid and young adult, I really wasn't crazy about it when I heard them play this type of music. It took a long time for me to come to appreciate and love this genre. It speaks of a simpler time - not all good - but a simpler time none the less.
Most of my favourites were recorded long before I was even born but I cook, clean, work out, relax and sometimes fall asleep to this music. I don't know if there really is such a thing as re-incarnation (a topic for a future post!) but I feel an incredible connection to this music. I feel very much at peace when I listen.
In the last few years there has been a great resurgance for this genre, thanks in part to the incredible success of Michael Bublé and Rod Stewart who have each put out several albums of the old classics and standards.
So, if you haven't listened to this style of music for awhile or are convinced that it really isn't for you, my advice is this; try it for a couple of days or better yet a week. You just might be surprised how good it makes you feel!
dn
Don't get me wrong, I still have a lot of those other genres on my media player and mp3, but the music of the big band era is almost always my first choice. I got an mp3 for Christmas and before you ask - NO, I do not walk around outside with the headphones on! I have it connected to my living room stereo so I can listen when I'm there or in the kitchen.
There is just something about that music that I find very appealing. There were so many talented performers of that era! Whether it was a ballad or something with a great beat, serious, or light it is really hard not to fall in love with this genre if you just give it a chance.
A few of my favourites are;
Glenn Miller - an incredibly talented band leader and arranger who gave us a wonderful collection of Big Band numbers in the few short years that he had. A genius who was taken far too soon. I have over 60 of his songs on mp3 and two of my fav's are "In the Mood" and "String of Pearls"
Rosemary Clooney - had an amazing set of pipes and gave us decades of beautiful music with songs like; "Hey There"; and "Half As Much".
Louis Armstrong - Satchmo never intended to be a singer, just a man with a horn. He was gifted in both areas. Whether he was on his own with songs like "What a Wonderful World" or doing duets with Ella Fitzgerald such as "Cheek to Cheek" his voice was unmistakable and his talent was obvious.
Nat King Cole - Talk about smooth! This man who gave us "The Christmas Song" ("Chestnuts roasting..") had a voice that truly is "Unforgetable"!
There are probably at least 50 more artists that I could name as I have about 575 songs of the era on mp3, but I will just list a few; Billie Holiday; Dinah Washington; Peggy Lee; Jo Stafford; Julie London; Bing Crosby; Al Jolson; The Mills Brothers; The Ink Spots;The McGuire Sisters; The Andrew Sisters; Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman and Chet Baker.
These were the kings and queens of the time. They brought the gift of music to a troubled world. Every generation has its stars and some shine brighter and longer than others. More than 50 years later, their music is still played and loved by millions. This is the music of my parents generation. I will freely admit that as a kid and young adult, I really wasn't crazy about it when I heard them play this type of music. It took a long time for me to come to appreciate and love this genre. It speaks of a simpler time - not all good - but a simpler time none the less.
Most of my favourites were recorded long before I was even born but I cook, clean, work out, relax and sometimes fall asleep to this music. I don't know if there really is such a thing as re-incarnation (a topic for a future post!) but I feel an incredible connection to this music. I feel very much at peace when I listen.
In the last few years there has been a great resurgance for this genre, thanks in part to the incredible success of Michael Bublé and Rod Stewart who have each put out several albums of the old classics and standards.
So, if you haven't listened to this style of music for awhile or are convinced that it really isn't for you, my advice is this; try it for a couple of days or better yet a week. You just might be surprised how good it makes you feel!
dn
Friday, February 29, 2008
Blink navigation
I am a very independant person and don't like having to ask for help. There are times however, when it is prudent to reach out for a little help. These times include finding yourself in an unfamiliar setting or in the middle of some sort of blockade/construction/reroute.
No matter how well you plan ahead, you have to expect the unexpected. There have been times when I've planned my days errands and bus route connections only to find that the bus has been rerouted or the stop moved. If the new route/stop is off of my familiar path, it is very easy to become disoriented or even lost. I've had construction/street repair workers stop what they are doing and help me navigate safely to a more familiar route up to a block away. Very helpful souls.
If I am standing at an intersection that is not controlled by a light or the light is out, I've had drivers roll down their window and yell "It's safe to cross now lady!" This option is greatly preferred to those who honk or wave and assume that I know they are referring to me! One time I was standing at an intersection where an officer was directing traffic after an accident had put the traffic lights out. It was noisy and I couldn't hear him, nor could I see him motioning to me to come across. After a few minutes, he litterally stopped traffic, ran over to me and personally helped me cross safely! Now that's what I call "serve and protect"!
If I go into a store where I am not familiar with the layout and/or where to find a specific item, then it is usually faster to find customer service or a cashier and ask for assistance. If I know I will need assistance, I try to go early in the morning before they get busy and have even phoned ahead in some cases. Generally, the staff are very obliging and more than willing to help a customer. I've had clerks who have spent 20 - 30 minutes helping me go through all the Hallmark "Shoebox" cards, look for the perfect gift or find specialty items at a grocery store.
Then there are the clerks who really make you wonder which of you is blind. Several years ago, I went into a local discount store and asked a cashier where to find a certain item. She pointed in the general direction and said "Over there" Hmm... that makes sense. I couldn't help myself and said; "Excuse me, could you point a little louder please?" (I assimed she would get my meaning)
She pointed again and said "OVER THERE" in a louder voice. I was obviously speaking to the employee of the month! One more try. "Excuse me, do you know what this white cane represents?" She thought for a second and said; "You can't see?" Ah there may be hope. "Exactly, now would you please tell me where to find the item I came in for - without pointing and saying over there!"
Even with my low vision I could see that the lightbulb in her brain was finally lit and she realized how stupidly she had treated me. She appologized and called another clerk to take me to get what I needed.
I know it is easy to get complacent in a sighted world but the reality is there are millions with or without white canes who don't always see clearly. Your job as a sighted and supposedly inteligent human being is to be observant and be willing to step up and offer relevant/useful info to those of us who need a little help from time to time.
Honking your horn, shouting or pointing is not useful information to the blind/blinks of this world. We are visually impaired and the majority of us are NOT deaf.
Ah the joys of being visually impaired!
dn
No matter how well you plan ahead, you have to expect the unexpected. There have been times when I've planned my days errands and bus route connections only to find that the bus has been rerouted or the stop moved. If the new route/stop is off of my familiar path, it is very easy to become disoriented or even lost. I've had construction/street repair workers stop what they are doing and help me navigate safely to a more familiar route up to a block away. Very helpful souls.
If I am standing at an intersection that is not controlled by a light or the light is out, I've had drivers roll down their window and yell "It's safe to cross now lady!" This option is greatly preferred to those who honk or wave and assume that I know they are referring to me! One time I was standing at an intersection where an officer was directing traffic after an accident had put the traffic lights out. It was noisy and I couldn't hear him, nor could I see him motioning to me to come across. After a few minutes, he litterally stopped traffic, ran over to me and personally helped me cross safely! Now that's what I call "serve and protect"!
If I go into a store where I am not familiar with the layout and/or where to find a specific item, then it is usually faster to find customer service or a cashier and ask for assistance. If I know I will need assistance, I try to go early in the morning before they get busy and have even phoned ahead in some cases. Generally, the staff are very obliging and more than willing to help a customer. I've had clerks who have spent 20 - 30 minutes helping me go through all the Hallmark "Shoebox" cards, look for the perfect gift or find specialty items at a grocery store.
Then there are the clerks who really make you wonder which of you is blind. Several years ago, I went into a local discount store and asked a cashier where to find a certain item. She pointed in the general direction and said "Over there" Hmm... that makes sense. I couldn't help myself and said; "Excuse me, could you point a little louder please?" (I assimed she would get my meaning)
She pointed again and said "OVER THERE" in a louder voice. I was obviously speaking to the employee of the month! One more try. "Excuse me, do you know what this white cane represents?" She thought for a second and said; "You can't see?" Ah there may be hope. "Exactly, now would you please tell me where to find the item I came in for - without pointing and saying over there!"
Even with my low vision I could see that the lightbulb in her brain was finally lit and she realized how stupidly she had treated me. She appologized and called another clerk to take me to get what I needed.
I know it is easy to get complacent in a sighted world but the reality is there are millions with or without white canes who don't always see clearly. Your job as a sighted and supposedly inteligent human being is to be observant and be willing to step up and offer relevant/useful info to those of us who need a little help from time to time.
Honking your horn, shouting or pointing is not useful information to the blind/blinks of this world. We are visually impaired and the majority of us are NOT deaf.
Ah the joys of being visually impaired!
dn
Thursday, February 28, 2008
The Vinyl Cafe
Every weekend, I listen to "The Vinyl Cafe" on CBC radio. Depending on how early I'm up, I will even listen to the Atlantic or Eastern feed on the computer on Saturday mornings. The host of this hour long program is Stuart McLean, a master humourist and storyteller. He plays an eclectic mix of music and places a strong emphasis on Canadian music.
If you go to; http://www.cbc.ca/vinylcafe/home.php you will be greeted with this overview on the main page:
The Vinyl Cafe is a radio show heard on CBC Radio in Canada, on selected public radio stations in the United States, Sirius Satellite Radio channel 137, on Podcast and live online. The show is written and hosted by Stuart McLean and features stories, essays and music (both live and recorded). The Vinyl Cafe stories are about Dave, owner of the second hand record store, and they are collected in books and on CD. The stories also feature Dave's wife, Morley, their two children, Sam and Stephanie, and assorted friends and neighbours.The motto of Dave's store - and of the radio show - is: "We May Not Be Big, But We're Small".
From the main page you can click on any of the features to get more info. Some of those features are the "story exchange" (listeners submit short, true stories that may be read on air), tour dates, store, and special features ("last dance" and the annual "Arthur Awards").
The "Arthur's" are an annual awards show that Stuart and his team have created to celebrate the importance of the unimportant. The Arthur's are named for Dave's dog, Arthur. You nominate whoever you want in whatever category you want and tell why this person deserves an award for whatever it was they have done. It could be something as simple as the neighbour who shovels your walk for you without pay, the bus driver who is nice to everyone no matter what or the stranger who went that extra mile to return a lost item. It's entirely up to you!
The stories about Dave and his family and friends are highly entertaining and also very touching/thought provoking. Stuart always finds a way to balance the humour with the humanity and the world around us. A word of warning though, Never eat or drink while listening to a Vinyl Cafe story. You never know when Stuart might throw in a line that will have you laughing so hard that you almost choke.
Stuart takes the show on tour several times a year and is embarking on a western Canada tour during March. Check the site for a show near you. The show in Winnipeg on March 18 is being taped, to air at a later date. I've never been to a Vinyl Cafe concert but it is on my list of things I want to do someday. For now I'll have to settle for listening to the broadcasts.
I highly recommend that you click on "how to listen" and select one of the methods and give this wonderful show a listen. You'll laugh, you'll think and find your foot taping to the music. Whether you listen while working or relaxing, it is a refreshing break from this hectic world.
dn
P.S. Thanks to a ticket giveaway on the Vinyl Cafe Facebook page, I did get to go to a live concert here in Winnipeg in February 2012. You can read the story here.
If you go to; http://www.cbc.ca/vinylcafe/home.php you will be greeted with this overview on the main page:
The Vinyl Cafe is a radio show heard on CBC Radio in Canada, on selected public radio stations in the United States, Sirius Satellite Radio channel 137, on Podcast and live online. The show is written and hosted by Stuart McLean and features stories, essays and music (both live and recorded). The Vinyl Cafe stories are about Dave, owner of the second hand record store, and they are collected in books and on CD. The stories also feature Dave's wife, Morley, their two children, Sam and Stephanie, and assorted friends and neighbours.The motto of Dave's store - and of the radio show - is: "We May Not Be Big, But We're Small".
From the main page you can click on any of the features to get more info. Some of those features are the "story exchange" (listeners submit short, true stories that may be read on air), tour dates, store, and special features ("last dance" and the annual "Arthur Awards").
The "Arthur's" are an annual awards show that Stuart and his team have created to celebrate the importance of the unimportant. The Arthur's are named for Dave's dog, Arthur. You nominate whoever you want in whatever category you want and tell why this person deserves an award for whatever it was they have done. It could be something as simple as the neighbour who shovels your walk for you without pay, the bus driver who is nice to everyone no matter what or the stranger who went that extra mile to return a lost item. It's entirely up to you!
The stories about Dave and his family and friends are highly entertaining and also very touching/thought provoking. Stuart always finds a way to balance the humour with the humanity and the world around us. A word of warning though, Never eat or drink while listening to a Vinyl Cafe story. You never know when Stuart might throw in a line that will have you laughing so hard that you almost choke.
Stuart takes the show on tour several times a year and is embarking on a western Canada tour during March. Check the site for a show near you. The show in Winnipeg on March 18 is being taped, to air at a later date. I've never been to a Vinyl Cafe concert but it is on my list of things I want to do someday. For now I'll have to settle for listening to the broadcasts.
I highly recommend that you click on "how to listen" and select one of the methods and give this wonderful show a listen. You'll laugh, you'll think and find your foot taping to the music. Whether you listen while working or relaxing, it is a refreshing break from this hectic world.
dn
P.S. Thanks to a ticket giveaway on the Vinyl Cafe Facebook page, I did get to go to a live concert here in Winnipeg in February 2012. You can read the story here.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Men In Trees
One of my favourite prime time shows returns to the air tonight at 9:00 central (10E/P). I loved "Men In Trees" from the first episode last season. It has a small but loyal fan base, but then again, ABC has moved the shows' time slot so many times that only the most loyal viewers can find it. They have never really given this show a fair deal.
Season 1 had 22 episodes but they only aired 16 in North America and promised us 27 (6 from first plus 21 new) for season 2. Well the writers strike (which I was in support of) has destroyed that scenario, so we are only getting19/27. 11 new episodes will air over the next three months. There is no word yet on whether or not ABC will pick up the show for a 3rd season. That decision won't be made until May, so it is up to the viewers to watch and let ABC know that you want this show on the air.
So what is "Men In Trees" about you ask? Well, one of the best descriptions I've heard is this - If "Northern Exposure" and "Sex and the City" had a baby, it would be "Men In Trees"! I never watched NE or SitC but I know the concepts of both would definitely produce a great show like MIT.
MIT is the story of a relationship coach, Marin Frist, who travels to Elmo, Alaska on her lecture tour and winds up staying and falling in love with the small town and its' quirky residents. The town has only about 300 residents, mostly men. The show is shot in and around Vancouver and Squamish, BC so it takes full advantage of the coastal and mountain beauty. The show is actually considered a dramedy which is a cross between a drama and a comedy. MIT delivers on both fronts with great plots, character studies and laugh out loud moments.
You can read all the episode recaps, character & bios, music, video clips etc. at;
http://abc.go.com/primetime/menintrees/index?pn=index
For the status of other prime time shows, post writers strike, please check this link.
http://community.tvguide.com/blog-entry/TVGuide-Editors-Blog/Ausiello-Report/Wga-Strike-Favorite/800032698 All dates/shows listed are subject to change and the page is updated on a regular basis.
And please, check out Men In Trees Wednesday nights on ABC and also on CITY TV in Canada. It really is the best show you've probably never seen!
dn
Season 1 had 22 episodes but they only aired 16 in North America and promised us 27 (6 from first plus 21 new) for season 2. Well the writers strike (which I was in support of) has destroyed that scenario, so we are only getting19/27. 11 new episodes will air over the next three months. There is no word yet on whether or not ABC will pick up the show for a 3rd season. That decision won't be made until May, so it is up to the viewers to watch and let ABC know that you want this show on the air.
So what is "Men In Trees" about you ask? Well, one of the best descriptions I've heard is this - If "Northern Exposure" and "Sex and the City" had a baby, it would be "Men In Trees"! I never watched NE or SitC but I know the concepts of both would definitely produce a great show like MIT.
MIT is the story of a relationship coach, Marin Frist, who travels to Elmo, Alaska on her lecture tour and winds up staying and falling in love with the small town and its' quirky residents. The town has only about 300 residents, mostly men. The show is shot in and around Vancouver and Squamish, BC so it takes full advantage of the coastal and mountain beauty. The show is actually considered a dramedy which is a cross between a drama and a comedy. MIT delivers on both fronts with great plots, character studies and laugh out loud moments.
You can read all the episode recaps, character & bios, music, video clips etc. at;
http://abc.go.com/primetime/menintrees/index?pn=index
For the status of other prime time shows, post writers strike, please check this link.
http://community.tvguide.com/blog-entry/TVGuide-Editors-Blog/Ausiello-Report/Wga-Strike-Favorite/800032698 All dates/shows listed are subject to change and the page is updated on a regular basis.
And please, check out Men In Trees Wednesday nights on ABC and also on CITY TV in Canada. It really is the best show you've probably never seen!
dn
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
I enjoy watching Rachael Ray. I get some great ideas for recipes and she has some interesting guests. One of her regular segments is called "Stump the Rach'!" She has a guest, show her some unusual gadgets and she has to guess what the purpose of the object is. Sometimes it is fairly obvious what something may be used for... but then there are some items that you just can't help but let your mind wander to the extreme!
Last Wednesday
(Feb.20, 2008 was such a day. Her quest was hottie Enrique Iglesias. One of the objects that he showed Rach was what looked like a bright yellow banana shape with an opening at one end. "Can this go on the air?" Rach jokingly asks. The audience roared as they were wondering the same thing. After a few more snickers and a little playful innuendo, it was revealed that it goes on your pot handles!
The website that sells "The Banana Handle" says;
BANANA HANDLE The appealing non-slip handle
grip You've never seen a chimpanzee burn himself
on a hot pan, have you? Of course not. That's because Banana Handle's heat-resistant silicone construction
protects hands, both human and primate.
Slide the ripe yellow peel onto any pan handle and
you're ready to cook, hands down.
I'll admit that the "idea" of a pan handle holder is actually pretty good. With certain kinds of pans, such as cast iron this would be very handy indeed. I'm no prude - by any stretch of the imagination - but a "banana" shape? How can you NOT let your imagination go "south"!!! I'm sure that was part of the inventor's/manufacturer's plan to get attention. Well I'm sure that sales will be up firmly after gaining national exposure on "stump the Rach",
Okay, so I took a few obvious shots, but come on - I only wrote what you were thinking! So for even more interesting objects and gadgets check out;
http://www.perpetualkid.com/index.asp
http://www.stupid.com/index.html
Be warned though that some of the gadgets om these sites are definitely intended for a more mature audience.
Where do people come up with these ideas and HOW do they convince other people to actually sell them! It boggles the mind, but then again it got our attention!
dn
Last Wednesday
(Feb.20, 2008 was such a day. Her quest was hottie Enrique Iglesias. One of the objects that he showed Rach was what looked like a bright yellow banana shape with an opening at one end. "Can this go on the air?" Rach jokingly asks. The audience roared as they were wondering the same thing. After a few more snickers and a little playful innuendo, it was revealed that it goes on your pot handles!
The website that sells "The Banana Handle" says;
BANANA HANDLE The appealing non-slip handle
grip You've never seen a chimpanzee burn himself
on a hot pan, have you? Of course not. That's because Banana Handle's heat-resistant silicone construction
protects hands, both human and primate.
Slide the ripe yellow peel onto any pan handle and
you're ready to cook, hands down.
I'll admit that the "idea" of a pan handle holder is actually pretty good. With certain kinds of pans, such as cast iron this would be very handy indeed. I'm no prude - by any stretch of the imagination - but a "banana" shape? How can you NOT let your imagination go "south"!!! I'm sure that was part of the inventor's/manufacturer's plan to get attention. Well I'm sure that sales will be up firmly after gaining national exposure on "stump the Rach",
Okay, so I took a few obvious shots, but come on - I only wrote what you were thinking! So for even more interesting objects and gadgets check out;
http://www.perpetualkid.com/index.asp
http://www.stupid.com/index.html
Be warned though that some of the gadgets om these sites are definitely intended for a more mature audience.
Where do people come up with these ideas and HOW do they convince other people to actually sell them! It boggles the mind, but then again it got our attention!
dn
Monday, February 25, 2008
The Young And The Restless Wiki
I LOVE "The Young and The Restless"! I won't answer the phone or the door when it is on. I have the VCR set to tape if I'm not home in time to watch. In twenty years, I've only missed a handful of shows.
A friend got me hooked back in the fall of 1987. I was visiting a good friend and he looked at the clock and said; "Oh, it's time for Y&R". I said I'd leave, but he insisted I stay. I wasn't crazy about getting into another soap, as I was already watching "Another World" (and so was he!). Of course I knew nothing of the story lines, but he filled me in during commercial breaks. Over the next month or so, he pretty much filled me in and got me hooked. The characters were intriguing and the plots were "slightly" more realistic than other soaps. After awhile he stopped answering my questions and said, I'd just have to keep watching and I'd learn as I watched.
He was right of course. Creator Bill Bell was a master of storytelling and often used flashbacks to re-introduce the past to the present stories, Mr. Bell left the show several years ago and has since died, but his legacy lives on. The show has gone through a number of changes since and sadly, not all have been good.
The most glaring error was the hiring of Lynne Marie Latham to helm the writing team. She focused on characters rather than story lines and basically attempted to re-write history. The fans hated it and have been very vocal about it on wiki's, blogs and forums. Well, our prayers were answered earlier this month when she received her pink slip after the writer's strike ended. We all have our fingers crossed that the new writers that have been added will restore the show to its true glory and make Bill Bell proud.
Y&R fans are some of the most loyal and vocal people I've ever met. In October 2007, I found the Y&R Wiki and started reading the threads (subjects/questions/thoughts) that were posted by the members. Wow these people are loyal!. If you ask a question it is generally answered within a few minutes by someone with a great memory. You don't always agree with other people, but you don't judge them by their opinion.
I signed up for a free membership and created a screen name and started posting. Hey this is cool! I actually knew the answers to some of the questions about show history that were being asked by newer viewers or a slightly faulty memory!
For some reason Canadians get to see episodes of Y&R on Global TV a day ahead of USA viewers on CBS. It is often tempting, for some of us, to spill the beans and let our friends know what is coming up. For the most part we resist although we do hint and post teasers. One friend even sent me a recipe but I kept my lips shut. It really is hard to keep quiet especially when it is something juicy! I've said I will talk for good quality dark or bittersweet chocolate but haven't receives any yet.
I've learned a lot, laughed a lot and shared a few tears with my friends on the wiki! It really is a great community. It can drive you crazy at times, like when several threads with pretty much the same subject/question are started. Not everyone has figured out how to use the search feature to look for keywords and characters. We all have our favourite/least favourite characters and plots.
Personally, I only reply/post to about half the threads that I'd like to as it is just to hard for me to type and read that much info without my eyes driving me nuts. I find the red thread titles very hard to see and the boxes for composing posts and messages very small. I've tried typing posts in notepad or outlook and then copy/paste into the compose box but that is only useful if I know I'll be making a longer post. Some posts start out short and then take on a whole new life as I type.
I've made several friends on the wiki and have invited them to view my blog. Some are concerned that I won't be posting on the wiki anymore. Far from it - I will still be checking in a couple times a day and if I feel I have something to say I will post a reply or start a new thread. You are not getting rid of me that easily! If I don't post on the wiki for awhile, rest assured that my warped wisdom is only a click away. I know several have visited and I hope they continue to visit, invite a friend and feel as free to comment here as they do on the wiki. Just remember that I moderate the comments, so behave yourselves folks! I can make your post disappear!
A friend got me hooked back in the fall of 1987. I was visiting a good friend and he looked at the clock and said; "Oh, it's time for Y&R". I said I'd leave, but he insisted I stay. I wasn't crazy about getting into another soap, as I was already watching "Another World" (and so was he!). Of course I knew nothing of the story lines, but he filled me in during commercial breaks. Over the next month or so, he pretty much filled me in and got me hooked. The characters were intriguing and the plots were "slightly" more realistic than other soaps. After awhile he stopped answering my questions and said, I'd just have to keep watching and I'd learn as I watched.
He was right of course. Creator Bill Bell was a master of storytelling and often used flashbacks to re-introduce the past to the present stories, Mr. Bell left the show several years ago and has since died, but his legacy lives on. The show has gone through a number of changes since and sadly, not all have been good.
The most glaring error was the hiring of Lynne Marie Latham to helm the writing team. She focused on characters rather than story lines and basically attempted to re-write history. The fans hated it and have been very vocal about it on wiki's, blogs and forums. Well, our prayers were answered earlier this month when she received her pink slip after the writer's strike ended. We all have our fingers crossed that the new writers that have been added will restore the show to its true glory and make Bill Bell proud.
Y&R fans are some of the most loyal and vocal people I've ever met. In October 2007, I found the Y&R Wiki and started reading the threads (subjects/questions/thoughts) that were posted by the members. Wow these people are loyal!. If you ask a question it is generally answered within a few minutes by someone with a great memory. You don't always agree with other people, but you don't judge them by their opinion.
I signed up for a free membership and created a screen name and started posting. Hey this is cool! I actually knew the answers to some of the questions about show history that were being asked by newer viewers or a slightly faulty memory!
For some reason Canadians get to see episodes of Y&R on Global TV a day ahead of USA viewers on CBS. It is often tempting, for some of us, to spill the beans and let our friends know what is coming up. For the most part we resist although we do hint and post teasers. One friend even sent me a recipe but I kept my lips shut. It really is hard to keep quiet especially when it is something juicy! I've said I will talk for good quality dark or bittersweet chocolate but haven't receives any yet.
I've learned a lot, laughed a lot and shared a few tears with my friends on the wiki! It really is a great community. It can drive you crazy at times, like when several threads with pretty much the same subject/question are started. Not everyone has figured out how to use the search feature to look for keywords and characters. We all have our favourite/least favourite characters and plots.
Personally, I only reply/post to about half the threads that I'd like to as it is just to hard for me to type and read that much info without my eyes driving me nuts. I find the red thread titles very hard to see and the boxes for composing posts and messages very small. I've tried typing posts in notepad or outlook and then copy/paste into the compose box but that is only useful if I know I'll be making a longer post. Some posts start out short and then take on a whole new life as I type.
I've made several friends on the wiki and have invited them to view my blog. Some are concerned that I won't be posting on the wiki anymore. Far from it - I will still be checking in a couple times a day and if I feel I have something to say I will post a reply or start a new thread. You are not getting rid of me that easily! If I don't post on the wiki for awhile, rest assured that my warped wisdom is only a click away. I know several have visited and I hope they continue to visit, invite a friend and feel as free to comment here as they do on the wiki. Just remember that I moderate the comments, so behave yourselves folks! I can make your post disappear!
For more info on the Y&R wiki; http://theyoungandtherestlesswiki.cbs.com/
dn
Sunday, February 24, 2008
ATTENTION CHOCOLATE LOVERS!
As most of you know, I am a chocoholic. Nowadays, I can pass on most commercial chocolate bars. There are still a few that I'd find really hard to say no to, if anyone offered to share. These include; Smarties; M&M's; Kit Kat; Coffee Crisp; Crispy Crunch; and Reese's Peanut Butter Cups.
However, there are a few types that I WILL NOT SHARE!
The %'s behind each type of Terry's chocolate represent how likely you are to eat that type. Personally I would only even consider eating the first two types which are both dark chocolate. I would have to be incredibly desperate for a chocolate fix to consider the others! I knew I'd be a dark chocolate, but it was nice to have it confirmed in such a "scientific" poll! So take the challenge and let me know how you rank.
However, there are a few types that I WILL NOT SHARE!
1) plain dark or bittersweet chocolate
2) dark chocolate and burnt almond (Hershey or Cadbury)
3) Terry's Chocolate Orange (dark chocolate!)
I found a very cool quiz that determines what kind of Terry's Chocolate Orange you are at;
You rank 32 short phrases on a scale of 1 - 5. 1 being "not me" and 5 being "yummy", then submit your answers for results.
Here are my results:
Which Terry’s Chocolate Orange are you? You scored as a Plain Chocolate Orange
You are a Dark Chocolate Orange, seductive and lush. The darkness attracts and consumes you. It may not
be as pretty or sweet as everything else, but its honesty
is refreshing.Which Terry’s Chocolate Orange are you? You scored as a Plain Chocolate Orange
You are a Dark Chocolate Orange, seductive and lush. The darkness attracts and consumes you. It may not
be as pretty or sweet as everything else, but its honesty Plain Chocolate Orange 94%
Chocolate Orange Bar 81%
Not a Chocolate Orange 69%
White Chocolate Orange (Snowball) 69%
Chocolate Orange Segsations 56%
Milk Chocolate Orange 50%
Tangy Chocolate Orange 31%
Mint Chocolate Orange 19%
Chocolate Orange Bar 81%
Not a Chocolate Orange 69%
White Chocolate Orange (Snowball) 69%
Chocolate Orange Segsations 56%
Milk Chocolate Orange 50%
Tangy Chocolate Orange 31%
Mint Chocolate Orange 19%
The %'s behind each type of Terry's chocolate represent how likely you are to eat that type. Personally I would only even consider eating the first two types which are both dark chocolate. I would have to be incredibly desperate for a chocolate fix to consider the others! I knew I'd be a dark chocolate, but it was nice to have it confirmed in such a "scientific" poll! So take the challenge and let me know how you rank.
Well this post was a lot more work than usual, so I think I'll stop for some chocolate!
dn
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Favourite Movies - part 2
There are a lot of movies that I have enjoyed over the years. I shared some of the comedies and mysteries yesterday. Today, I'll let you in on some of my favourite romance (serious and comedic) and drama picks.
I've always enjoyed Meg Ryan's romantic roles such as: "When Harry Met Sally" 1989; "Prelude To A Kiss" 1992; "IQ" 1994; and "Kate And Leopold" 2001.
Meg was also great in "Sleepless In Seattle" 1993 and "You've Got Mail" 1998 where she co-starred with Tom Hanks.
Tom has starred in some of my fav's such as; "Philadelphia" 1993; "Apollo 13" 1995; "Cast Away" 2000; "Road To Perdition" 2002; "Catch Me If You Can" 2002; "The Lady Killers" 2004; "The Terminal" 2004.
In the category of "Fairy Tale-esque", I have two picks;
"The Princess Bride" 1987 hilarious and romantic with an outstanding cast!
"Everafter" 1998 stars Drew Barrymore in a great version of a Cinderella story.
Drew is also quite enjoyable in; "See You In The Morning" 1989; "The Wedding Singer" 1998; and "50 First Dates" 2004
Other favourites include;
"Tell Me That You Love Me Junie Moon" (1970) starring Liza Minnelli, Ken Howard and Robert Moore as three disabled misfits looking for love and acceptance.
"Somethings Gotta Give" 2003 Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson
"Secondhand Lions" 2003 starring Michael Caine, Robert Duvall and Haley Joel Osment in a great coming of age story with adventure, humour and love
"The Notebook" 2004 A real tear jerker with James Garner and Gena Rowlands
You can find more info on these movies and many more at;
http://imdb.com/ or http://www.tcm.com/index.jsp
There are a lot of great movies out there. I've only listed a few of mine and I barely scratched the surface. Someday, I'll post a list of old black and whites that I enjoy. For now, I'm sure that I've tweaked enough memories to send you to your stash of VHS or DVD's or your nearest movie rental store .
Enjoy!
dn
I've always enjoyed Meg Ryan's romantic roles such as: "When Harry Met Sally" 1989; "Prelude To A Kiss" 1992; "IQ" 1994; and "Kate And Leopold" 2001.
Meg was also great in "Sleepless In Seattle" 1993 and "You've Got Mail" 1998 where she co-starred with Tom Hanks.
Tom has starred in some of my fav's such as; "Philadelphia" 1993; "Apollo 13" 1995; "Cast Away" 2000; "Road To Perdition" 2002; "Catch Me If You Can" 2002; "The Lady Killers" 2004; "The Terminal" 2004.
In the category of "Fairy Tale-esque", I have two picks;
"The Princess Bride" 1987 hilarious and romantic with an outstanding cast!
"Everafter" 1998 stars Drew Barrymore in a great version of a Cinderella story.
Drew is also quite enjoyable in; "See You In The Morning" 1989; "The Wedding Singer" 1998; and "50 First Dates" 2004
Other favourites include;
"Tell Me That You Love Me Junie Moon" (1970) starring Liza Minnelli, Ken Howard and Robert Moore as three disabled misfits looking for love and acceptance.
"Somethings Gotta Give" 2003 Diane Keaton and Jack Nicholson
"Secondhand Lions" 2003 starring Michael Caine, Robert Duvall and Haley Joel Osment in a great coming of age story with adventure, humour and love
"The Notebook" 2004 A real tear jerker with James Garner and Gena Rowlands
You can find more info on these movies and many more at;
http://imdb.com/ or http://www.tcm.com/index.jsp
There are a lot of great movies out there. I've only listed a few of mine and I barely scratched the surface. Someday, I'll post a list of old black and whites that I enjoy. For now, I'm sure that I've tweaked enough memories to send you to your stash of VHS or DVD's or your nearest movie rental store .
Enjoy!
dn
Friday, February 22, 2008
Favourite Movies - part1
I haven't gone to a movie theater in years. I can't stand people talking during the movie - unless they are telling me a visual detail that this old blink missed on screen! I prefer watching a movie at home on the couch and being able to hit the rewind button to catch what I miss. I'm probably one of the few people left who doesn't own a DVD player! But I still love watching movies.
The Oscars are this weekend and since I haven't seen any of the nominees. I started thinking about old movies that I have on VHS (mostly taped off movie channels in 90's). I looked through my list and came up with several suggestions for your next "movie night". I don't know how many of these are on DVD but a good rental place should have some of the titles. You can always keep an eye on TV listings for them as these have all been on at various times over the years.
Peter Sellers;
"A Shot In The Dark" 1964
"The Party" 1968
"Being There" 1980
"The Fiendish Plot Of Dr. Fu Manchu" 1980
"Purple Rose Of Cairo" 1985
(Mia Farrow and Jeff Daniels)
"Maxie" 1985 (Glenn Close, Mandy Patinkin and Ruth Gordon)
"Harold And Maude" 1971 a very dark comedy, but wickedly funny if you are in the right mood! (Ruth Gordon and Bud Cort)
"The Villain" 1979 (Kirk Douglas, Ann-Margret, Arnold Schwarzenegger...) - this is a western take off on Road Runner cartoons but funny if you are in the mood!
"Boris and Natasha" 1992 (Sally Kellerman and Dave Thomas) This is a spin on The characters from "Rocky and Bullwinkle" but funny if you are in the mood for something silly.
"The Cheap Detective" 1978
(Peter Falk and Ann-Margret)
"Clue" 1985 (Eileen Brennan, Tim Curry, Madeline Kahn...)
"The Couch Trip" 1988
Dan Ackroyd and Walter Matthau)
"The In-laws" 1979
(Peter Falk and Alan Arkin) This is the original - not the remake.
"Roxanne" 1987 (Steve Martin) Watch if only for the nose jokes!
"Pete 'n' Tillie" 1972
(Walter Matthau and Carol Burnett)
Any movie co-starring Jack Lemon and Walter Matthau!
A lot of the early James Stewart (non western) movies such as
"Harvey" 1950 or any of the ones he did for Hitchcock such as "Rear Window" 1954, "Rope' 1948 or "Vertigo" 1958 are also very good.
As you can probably tell I love the old comedies and mysteries. I've never been a big fan of westerns, action or sci-fi but, hopefully you will find a few of these funny or worth the rental!
For info on any of these movies check out
http://www.tcm.com/index.jsp or http://imdb.com/
I also have several favourites in romantic comedies and "chick flicks" but I'll save those for tomorrows post!
dn
The Oscars are this weekend and since I haven't seen any of the nominees. I started thinking about old movies that I have on VHS (mostly taped off movie channels in 90's). I looked through my list and came up with several suggestions for your next "movie night". I don't know how many of these are on DVD but a good rental place should have some of the titles. You can always keep an eye on TV listings for them as these have all been on at various times over the years.
Peter Sellers;
"A Shot In The Dark" 1964
"The Party" 1968
"Being There" 1980
"The Fiendish Plot Of Dr. Fu Manchu" 1980
"Purple Rose Of Cairo" 1985
(Mia Farrow and Jeff Daniels)
"Maxie" 1985 (Glenn Close, Mandy Patinkin and Ruth Gordon)
"Harold And Maude" 1971 a very dark comedy, but wickedly funny if you are in the right mood! (Ruth Gordon and Bud Cort)
"The Villain" 1979 (Kirk Douglas, Ann-Margret, Arnold Schwarzenegger...) - this is a western take off on Road Runner cartoons but funny if you are in the mood!
"Boris and Natasha" 1992 (Sally Kellerman and Dave Thomas) This is a spin on The characters from "Rocky and Bullwinkle" but funny if you are in the mood for something silly.
"The Cheap Detective" 1978
(Peter Falk and Ann-Margret)
"Clue" 1985 (Eileen Brennan, Tim Curry, Madeline Kahn...)
"The Couch Trip" 1988
Dan Ackroyd and Walter Matthau)
"The In-laws" 1979
(Peter Falk and Alan Arkin) This is the original - not the remake.
"Roxanne" 1987 (Steve Martin) Watch if only for the nose jokes!
"Pete 'n' Tillie" 1972
(Walter Matthau and Carol Burnett)
Any movie co-starring Jack Lemon and Walter Matthau!
A lot of the early James Stewart (non western) movies such as
"Harvey" 1950 or any of the ones he did for Hitchcock such as "Rear Window" 1954, "Rope' 1948 or "Vertigo" 1958 are also very good.
As you can probably tell I love the old comedies and mysteries. I've never been a big fan of westerns, action or sci-fi but, hopefully you will find a few of these funny or worth the rental!
For info on any of these movies check out
http://www.tcm.com/index.jsp or http://imdb.com/
I also have several favourites in romantic comedies and "chick flicks" but I'll save those for tomorrows post!
dn
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Don't talk to strangers!! Our parents drilled this into our thick little skulls when we were kids. But if we don't talk to strangers then how are we ever going to meet new people and make new friends?
Okay, you can speak when spoken to, but be polite! Ah geez do I have to be nice? That takes all the fun out of it!
So we grow up and move out on our own and suddenly there are a lot of strangers around and you aren't always lucky enough to have a friend nearby. You have two choices; 1) become a hermit or 2) take a chance and speak to a stranger.
You take a chance and start talking to the obvious people like a neighbour, the guy/gal at the bus stop. a nurse, a pharmacist, a bank employee, someone at the office or at a store, Your nervous, so you start with the weather or you comment on something to do with the reason you are there in the first place. You may not know their name but it feels good to talk to someone.
Sometimes you get lucky and there is an instant rapport. You realize that you share a commonality and - voila! - a new friend! Sometimes though, it takes a while to develop that bond. After months or even years of chit chat, you realize that this person has become a good friend. You started guardedly and gradually, you both let down the facade and allowed the other person to see the real you - faults and all. Surprise, Surprise = they've seen the real you and they are still there!
If you don't talk or run into your friends for awhile you start to wonder how they are doing and if everything is alright. This can even apply to the people who cross your path on a regular basis like a bus passenger or a customer you see regularly then they disappear for awhile. Did they move? Holidays? Is something wrong,,,?
It's nice to be missed. It is also nice to walk into a place of business and be greeted by name and treated like a friend rather than just another customer. A lot of people say that isn't likely to happen in a big city, but I disagree. There are businesses that I frequent, where I am welcomed and greeted by name. That may be partly because I bring homemade chocolates every Christmas, but I prefer to believe that these people are my friends and that they look forward to seeing me as much as I do to seeing them.
I've been lucky since moving to Winnipeg. I've made several good friends over the years. I'd be lost without them. Your real friends are the ones who love and support you no matter what, They listen to your stories, your joys and your woes. They will lend an ear or a shoulder. They make you laugh. It isn't always easy to tell your friends that you love and care about them - especially the guy-gal friendships - it can get weird if the other misinterprets your meaning (now there's a subject for a future post!).
I do love my friends. I think they all know that, whether I've said the words or not. You've been there through some rough times. Some of you have been part of my life forever and some for only a few years. You've made me laugh. You've enriched my life beyond my dreams. You've looked beyond the packaging and taken the time to see who's inside. You've allowed me to get to know you and welcomed me into your life. You've left a footprint on my heart - in a good way!!
Life is a book. Some people are there for a paragraph or a chapter. Some weave their way in and out of your life and some are there to the final page. I want my friends there through the final page. So please take care of yourself, stay safe and know that you are loved and cherished as an important part of my life. Good friends are hard to find - and even harder to replace!
dn
Okay, you can speak when spoken to, but be polite! Ah geez do I have to be nice? That takes all the fun out of it!
So we grow up and move out on our own and suddenly there are a lot of strangers around and you aren't always lucky enough to have a friend nearby. You have two choices; 1) become a hermit or 2) take a chance and speak to a stranger.
You take a chance and start talking to the obvious people like a neighbour, the guy/gal at the bus stop. a nurse, a pharmacist, a bank employee, someone at the office or at a store, Your nervous, so you start with the weather or you comment on something to do with the reason you are there in the first place. You may not know their name but it feels good to talk to someone.
Sometimes you get lucky and there is an instant rapport. You realize that you share a commonality and - voila! - a new friend! Sometimes though, it takes a while to develop that bond. After months or even years of chit chat, you realize that this person has become a good friend. You started guardedly and gradually, you both let down the facade and allowed the other person to see the real you - faults and all. Surprise, Surprise = they've seen the real you and they are still there!
If you don't talk or run into your friends for awhile you start to wonder how they are doing and if everything is alright. This can even apply to the people who cross your path on a regular basis like a bus passenger or a customer you see regularly then they disappear for awhile. Did they move? Holidays? Is something wrong,,,?
It's nice to be missed. It is also nice to walk into a place of business and be greeted by name and treated like a friend rather than just another customer. A lot of people say that isn't likely to happen in a big city, but I disagree. There are businesses that I frequent, where I am welcomed and greeted by name. That may be partly because I bring homemade chocolates every Christmas, but I prefer to believe that these people are my friends and that they look forward to seeing me as much as I do to seeing them.
I've been lucky since moving to Winnipeg. I've made several good friends over the years. I'd be lost without them. Your real friends are the ones who love and support you no matter what, They listen to your stories, your joys and your woes. They will lend an ear or a shoulder. They make you laugh. It isn't always easy to tell your friends that you love and care about them - especially the guy-gal friendships - it can get weird if the other misinterprets your meaning (now there's a subject for a future post!).
I do love my friends. I think they all know that, whether I've said the words or not. You've been there through some rough times. Some of you have been part of my life forever and some for only a few years. You've made me laugh. You've enriched my life beyond my dreams. You've looked beyond the packaging and taken the time to see who's inside. You've allowed me to get to know you and welcomed me into your life. You've left a footprint on my heart - in a good way!!
Life is a book. Some people are there for a paragraph or a chapter. Some weave their way in and out of your life and some are there to the final page. I want my friends there through the final page. So please take care of yourself, stay safe and know that you are loved and cherished as an important part of my life. Good friends are hard to find - and even harder to replace!
dn
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
I've always had low vision. I've been legally blind since November 1990. I've lost more sight since then, and it continues to slowly deteriorate. I don't see as clearly as I did even a year or two ago. Yes, I take meds and see specialists on a regular basis, but medically there really isn't anything that will help.
I still love, appreciate and marvel at the beauty of a sunset, or the brilliant colours of autumn. It takes me longer to see the beauty of spring. The buds on the trees aren't apparent to me until a couple of weeks after most people notice. The same with flowers, I don't see the subtle and delicate beauty. Fresh flowers are wasted on me. Yes, I can smell the aroma, but I'm just not a fan of floral scents.
One of the things that I miss the most is seeing the faces of the people I love and care about. I've never really been able to see the details of their faces. Even before 1990, I had trouble with visual detail, but it is pretty much impossible to see the finer points now. I can still see some things like height, build, hair colour, glasses and if a man is clean shaven. If I normally see you in a certain type of setting, I will probably be able to find you if it isn't too crowded. But if our paths cross in a different environment, I likely wouldn't notice unless you spoke to me. It has always amazed me when people spot someone they know across a crowded mall or on a bus as it drives by. How wonderful it would be to see that much detail!
Some people may think that it's good that I can't see them that closely, but I disagree. I wish I could see the colour of their eyes, the shape of their nose, cheekbones and jawline. Do they have dimples, freckles or laugh lines? If I look at a photo of someone, I use my reading glasses and a strong magnifier to see detail more clearly. There is only so much detail that you can see in an average 4X6 photo. Real people aren't too crazy about you getting that close to them unless you are in an intimate relationship!
I got my first VCR back in the late 80's, Over the years, I have often taped, then paused the picture so I could see the detail more clearly. It was the only other way I could get a close look at a face. But my friends were never on TV, so I never really knew what they looked like.
Since I started using the computer, I have often used some of the magnifying features to look more closely at pictures of things and especially at peoples faces. There are magnifiers that allow me to take an image and enlarge it to a size that I could see more clearly.
I think it would be wonderful if I could look at the faces of my family and friends that closely - to see the beautiful and handsome faces that are a part of the incredible souls who enrich my life. Scary to some, but it would be such a gift to me to see detailed pics of the people I care about and who care about me.
So here's the deal. Most of you either have pics scanned or digital pics on your PC. Would you be willing to e-mail me a decent quality pic(s) of yourself so I can see what others see? I swear on my love of chocolate that I will NOT alter, post, publish, share or distribute the pics in any way. This is strictly for me to see you more clearly.
This isn't a joke. I really do want to see what you look like while I still can. Hopefully, I will have sight and all of you in my life for many years, but we don't know what tomorrow brings. If you want to send me your pic - and I hope you do - then please send it to my personal e-address (not the one for this site).
I still love, appreciate and marvel at the beauty of a sunset, or the brilliant colours of autumn. It takes me longer to see the beauty of spring. The buds on the trees aren't apparent to me until a couple of weeks after most people notice. The same with flowers, I don't see the subtle and delicate beauty. Fresh flowers are wasted on me. Yes, I can smell the aroma, but I'm just not a fan of floral scents.
One of the things that I miss the most is seeing the faces of the people I love and care about. I've never really been able to see the details of their faces. Even before 1990, I had trouble with visual detail, but it is pretty much impossible to see the finer points now. I can still see some things like height, build, hair colour, glasses and if a man is clean shaven. If I normally see you in a certain type of setting, I will probably be able to find you if it isn't too crowded. But if our paths cross in a different environment, I likely wouldn't notice unless you spoke to me. It has always amazed me when people spot someone they know across a crowded mall or on a bus as it drives by. How wonderful it would be to see that much detail!
Some people may think that it's good that I can't see them that closely, but I disagree. I wish I could see the colour of their eyes, the shape of their nose, cheekbones and jawline. Do they have dimples, freckles or laugh lines? If I look at a photo of someone, I use my reading glasses and a strong magnifier to see detail more clearly. There is only so much detail that you can see in an average 4X6 photo. Real people aren't too crazy about you getting that close to them unless you are in an intimate relationship!
I got my first VCR back in the late 80's, Over the years, I have often taped, then paused the picture so I could see the detail more clearly. It was the only other way I could get a close look at a face. But my friends were never on TV, so I never really knew what they looked like.
Since I started using the computer, I have often used some of the magnifying features to look more closely at pictures of things and especially at peoples faces. There are magnifiers that allow me to take an image and enlarge it to a size that I could see more clearly.
I think it would be wonderful if I could look at the faces of my family and friends that closely - to see the beautiful and handsome faces that are a part of the incredible souls who enrich my life. Scary to some, but it would be such a gift to me to see detailed pics of the people I care about and who care about me.
So here's the deal. Most of you either have pics scanned or digital pics on your PC. Would you be willing to e-mail me a decent quality pic(s) of yourself so I can see what others see? I swear on my love of chocolate that I will NOT alter, post, publish, share or distribute the pics in any way. This is strictly for me to see you more clearly.
This isn't a joke. I really do want to see what you look like while I still can. Hopefully, I will have sight and all of you in my life for many years, but we don't know what tomorrow brings. If you want to send me your pic - and I hope you do - then please send it to my personal e-address (not the one for this site).
Here's hoping that I SEE you in the near future!
dnTuesday, February 19, 2008
I hate typing! Always have. So why did I start a blog where I have to type? The simple answer is I'm nuts. But seriously, this is a great way to express myself, vent and allow others to get to know more about me. Sometimes it is easier to write your thoughts out than to actually have a conversation. This way, you have to post a comment, e-mail or talk to me if you agree or disagree with something I've written. Sure , this site has only been up a few days but nobody has told me to stop. So there!
Anyways, I tried to learn to type back in Grade 10 in Typing 102. I had more sight then but it was still a real pain. You see, my left eye has always been the good one. The desks that our school had were set up with the typing book on the right side. There was no way to properly set up a book on the left side. We didn't have large print books either. Trying to type while turning to my extreme right to see with my left eye was something only a contortionist could do. I used to walk out of class with a sore back and a knot in my neck every day. They finally managed to set up a make-shift desk for me but I still had to crane my neck to see the print. I almost flunked that course. The only reason that I didn't is because I had an understanding teacher who allowed me to take my final typing test from a word test near the beginning of the book rather than where the class was near the end of the book. I got 25wpm and the only "D" on my report card in high school.
I didn't touch a typewriter again until the early 80's when mom and I worked on some family history projects. By that time "White Out" was readily available and I even had a typewriter with a black/white ribbon for corrections. Funny, it was always the white that ran out first....
Well after that, I didn't touch a keyboard until October 2006. I've tried a couple of computer typing programs but still not having much luck. I have a 19' monitor but with my reading glasses, I have to be about two inches from the screen to read most things. I do use zoom and magnifier functions for some things but it isn't always the best solution.
I was never that great at spelling either, I always kept a dictionary handy, even if I was just writing a short letter to someone. You have no idea how much I love spell check! Unfortunately, I can't seem to get the spell check function to work on this blog site, but I also know I'm not the only one who has had issues with this function lately.
There is an upside to all of this. By making myself do a bit of typing every day or so to keep all of you educated/amused, I am very slowly getting more familiar with the layout of the keyboard and not looking at the keys quite as closely. Patterns of keystrokes for words are becoming easier. It still takes a long time for me to write a post. This one has take me about 45 minutes to create,type and do a manual spell check, but I figure in a couple of years I should have this typing thing down!
Feel free to tell me to stop blogging at any time.
dn
Anyways, I tried to learn to type back in Grade 10 in Typing 102. I had more sight then but it was still a real pain. You see, my left eye has always been the good one. The desks that our school had were set up with the typing book on the right side. There was no way to properly set up a book on the left side. We didn't have large print books either. Trying to type while turning to my extreme right to see with my left eye was something only a contortionist could do. I used to walk out of class with a sore back and a knot in my neck every day. They finally managed to set up a make-shift desk for me but I still had to crane my neck to see the print. I almost flunked that course. The only reason that I didn't is because I had an understanding teacher who allowed me to take my final typing test from a word test near the beginning of the book rather than where the class was near the end of the book. I got 25wpm and the only "D" on my report card in high school.
I didn't touch a typewriter again until the early 80's when mom and I worked on some family history projects. By that time "White Out" was readily available and I even had a typewriter with a black/white ribbon for corrections. Funny, it was always the white that ran out first....
Well after that, I didn't touch a keyboard until October 2006. I've tried a couple of computer typing programs but still not having much luck. I have a 19' monitor but with my reading glasses, I have to be about two inches from the screen to read most things. I do use zoom and magnifier functions for some things but it isn't always the best solution.
I was never that great at spelling either, I always kept a dictionary handy, even if I was just writing a short letter to someone. You have no idea how much I love spell check! Unfortunately, I can't seem to get the spell check function to work on this blog site, but I also know I'm not the only one who has had issues with this function lately.
There is an upside to all of this. By making myself do a bit of typing every day or so to keep all of you educated/amused, I am very slowly getting more familiar with the layout of the keyboard and not looking at the keys quite as closely. Patterns of keystrokes for words are becoming easier. It still takes a long time for me to write a post. This one has take me about 45 minutes to create,type and do a manual spell check, but I figure in a couple of years I should have this typing thing down!
Feel free to tell me to stop blogging at any time.
dn
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