Ms. Holm's soapbox

SYLVIA PLATH...........A Great Women Series Profile

2011-03-18T15:13:00.000-07:00

Genius. Legend. Feminist Icon. Sylvia is all of these. The tall, beautiful, and sometimes gaunt figure of a Poet captured My imagination When I was in High School. My Senior English teacher asked Me if I had read The Bell Jar after I had mentioned how floored I was at Her amazing poetry. So I was now introduced to Her terse, searing prose, and learned what a well rounded writer is. Her words can cut to the chase like a razor...or create a sensory world to drown in. SADLY... Her idealism was bluffed out of the game of the world's realities AND possibilities by the inner demons She battled. Her Manic highs and bottomless lows revealed the multifaceted paradox that She is.
What I have been given by Sylvia is a gift that no other has given Me. It is best put by the quote in the film Shadowlands, where the character C.S. Lewis (played by Anthony Hopkins) says: "We read to know We are not alone". Sylvia..Thanks for being someone Whose Frame of Reference has given Me strength, understanding, and an added perspective about MySelf. I love You.

These Un-Expected Gems: A gift from God. ^_^

2010-05-23T01:52:00.000-07:00

My Parents ca. 1976

ANOTHER CARDBOARD BOX DISCOVERY!!!!

I got a total Gift From God yesterday. Pictures are one of the most favorite things to Me of all. This one gave Me the gift of Dad's smile. :) I love those photo booths. I think that they capture a realness that no other situation allows. A person volountarily gives an impromptu piece of themselves-a statement in black and white. In that booth is born a record whether the subject is "being" silly, happy,serious; whether alone or crammed with others-whatever the subject's situation or mood... it is a small record of uncensored reaction and unguarded informality. Dad...You are the Best! <3

Lynn Redgrave......Class, Talent, and Spunk : A GREAT WOMEN SERIES SPECIAL

2010-05-03T14:51:00.000-07:00

Hey, Folks.....It has been a while. I come back as a Prodigal Blogger to honor Lynn Redgrave. What a rich body of work She has! Here is a list of her works to feast upon (courtesy of IMDB):

2000s
1990s
1980s
1970s
1960s
"Ugly Betty" .... Olivia Guillemette (1 episode, 2009) - The Butterfly Effect: Part 1 (2009) TV episode .... Olivia Guillemette
"Law & Order: Criminal Intent" .... Aunt Emily (1 episode, 2009) ... aka "Law & Order: CI" - USA (promotional abbreviation) - Folie a Deux (2009) TV episode .... Aunt Emily
My Dog Tulip (2009)
Confessions of a Shopaholic (2009) .... Drunken Lady at Ball
The Jane Austen Book Club (2007) .... Mama Sky
"Desperate Housewives" .... Dahlia Hainsworth (1 episode, 2007) - Dress Big (2007) TV episode .... Dahlia Hainsworth
"Me, Eloise" .... Nanny (5 episodes, 2006-2007) - Eloise Goes to Hollywood (2007) TV episode .... Nanny - Eloise's Rawther Unusual Halloween (2006) TV episode (voice) .... Nanny - Rather Unusual Halloween (2006) TV episode (voice) .... Nanny - Eloise Goes to School (2006) TV episode (voice) .... Nanny - Little Miss Christmas (2006) TV episode (voice) .... Nanny
Nurses (2007) (TV) .... Peggy Rice ... aka "Philidelphia General" - USA (informal title)
The White Countess (2005) .... Olga Belinskya
Kinsey (2004) .... Final Interview Subject
Peter Pan (2003) .... Aunt Millicent
Charlie's War (2003) .... Grandma Lewis
Anita and Me (2002) .... Mrs. Ormerod
Hansel & Gretel (2002) .... Woman/Witch
The Wild Thornberrys Movie (2002) (voice) .... Cordelia Thornberry
Unconditional Love (2002) .... Nola Fox
Spider (2002) .... Mrs. Wilkinson
My Sister's Keeper (2002) (TV) .... Helen Margaret Chapman
My Kingdom (2001) .... Mandy
Varian's War (2001) (TV) .... Alma Werfel-Mahler
Venus and Mars (2001) .... Emily Vogel
"Rude Awakening" .... Trudy Frank (55 episodes, 1998-2001) - Altar Ego (2001) TV episode .... Trudy Frank - Dawg Daze Afternoon (2001) TV episode .... Trudy Frank - Blessings and Dead Guys (2001) TV episode .... Trudy Frank - Duck (2001) TV episode .... Trudy Frank - Kiss, Kiss, Kiss... (2001) TV episode .... Trudy Frank (50 more)
How to Kill Your Neighbor's Dog (2000) .... Edna
Deeply (2000) .... Celia
The Next Best Thing (2000) .... Helen Whittaker
The Simian Line (2000) .... Katharine
Lion of Oz (2000) (voice) .... The Wicked Witch of the East
"Hallmark Hall of Fame" .... Hon. Judge Nancy Jakes (1 episode, 1999) - A Season for Miracles (1999) TV episode .... Hon. Judge Nancy Jakes
The Annihilation of Fish (1999) .... Poinsettia
Touched (1999) .... Carrie
Different (1999) (TV) .... Amanda Talmadge
Strike! (1998) .... Miss McVane ... aka "The Hairy Bird" - Australia, Canada (English title) (working title)... aka "All I Wanna Do" - USA (new title)... aka "Girl Power" - Belgium (English title) (DVD title)
White Lies (1998) (TV) .... Inga Kolneder
Gods and Monsters (1998) .... Hanna
Indefensible: The Truth About Edward Brannigan (1997) (TV) .... Monica Brannigan
Toothless (1997) (TV) .... Rogers
Shine (1996) .... Gillian
Calling the Shots (1993) (TV) .... Maggie Donnelly
What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? (1991) (TV) .... Jane Hudson ... aka "What Ever Happened to...?" - USA (alternative title)
Jury Duty: The Comedy (1990) (TV) .... Abby Greyhouwsky ... aka "The Great American Sex Scandal" - USA
Silent Mouse (1990) (TV) .... Narrator
"Chicken Soup" .... Maddie Peerce (12 episodes, 1989) - Almost Father Jackie (1989) TV episode .... Maddie Peerce - Bea Moves Out (1989) TV episode .... Maddie Peerce - Take My Kids, Please (1989) TV episode .... Maddie Peerce - Double Date (1989) TV episode .... Maddie Peerce - The Reservation (1989) TV episode .... Maddie Peerce (7 more)
Midnight (1989) .... Midnight
Getting It Right (1989) .... Joan
"Screen Two" .... Pauline Williams (1 episode, 1989) - Death of a Son (1989) TV episode .... Pauline Williams
A Woman Alone (1988) (TV) .... The Woman
Tales from the Hollywood Hills: The Old Reliable (1988) (TV) .... 'Bill' Shannon ... aka "The Old Reliable" - USA (short title)
Morgan Stewart's Coming Home (1987) .... Nancy Stewart
"Hotel" .... Audrey Beck / ... (2 episodes, 1983-1986) - Restless Nights (1986) TV episode .... Audrey Beck - Relative Loss (1983) TV episode .... Cathy Knight
My Two Loves (1986) (TV) .... Marjorie Lloyd
Walking on Air (1986) (TV) .... Mrs. Hepp ... aka "Wonderworks: Walking on Air" - USA (series title)
The Bad Seed (1985) (TV) .... Monica Breedlove
"Murder, She Wrote" .... Abby Benton Freestone (1 episode, 1984) - It's a Dog's Life (1984) TV episode .... Abby Benton Freestone
"The Fainthearted Feminist" (1984) TV series .... Martha (unknown episodes)
"Fantasy Island" (2 episodes, 1982-1984) - To Fly with Eagles/The High Cost of Living (1984) TV episode - Everybody Goes to Gilley's/Face of Fire (1982) TV episode
"Teachers Only" .... Diana Swanson (21 episodes, 1982-1983) - Loss of Innocence (1983) TV episode .... Diana Swanson - Dead Mice Don't Wear Plaid (1983) TV episode .... Diana Swanson - It's My Party and I'll Cry If I Want To (1983) TV episode .... Diana Swanson - Leather and Lace (1983) TV episode .... Diana Swanson - Beetlemania (1983) TV episode .... Diana Swanson (16 more)
Antony and Cleopatra (1983) (TV) .... Cleopatra
"The Love Boat" (1 episode, 1982) - Bewigged, Bothered and Bewildered/The Anniversary Gift/Honey Bee Mine (1982) TV episode
"CBS Afternoon Playhouse" .... Sarah Cotter (1 episode, 1982) - The Shooting (1982) TV episode .... Sarah Cotter
Rehearsal for Murder (1982) (TV) .... Monica Welles
"House Calls" .... Ann Anderson (41 episodes, 1979-1981) - Son of Emergency (1981) TV episode .... Ann Anderson - Doctor Soloman and Mister Hide (1981) TV episode .... Ann Anderson - The Yes Man (1981) TV episode .... Ann Anderson - Bradley's Brat (1981) TV episode .... Ann Anderson - The Sex Police (1981) TV episode .... Ann Anderson (36 more)
Steve Martin's Best Show Ever (1981) (TV) .... Mrs. Kendal
Musical Comedy Tonight II (1981) (TV) ... aka "Sylvia Fine Kaye's Musical Comedy Tonight II" - USA (complete title)
Linda in Wonderland (1980) (TV)
Sunday Lovers (1980) .... Lady Davina (segment "An Englishman's Home")
The Seduction of Miss Leona (1980) (TV) .... Miss Leona de Vose ... aka "To Love Again" - USA (reissue title)
Gauguin the Savage (1980) (TV) .... Mette Gad
Beggarman, Thief (1979) (TV) .... Kate Jordache
Sooner or Later (1979) (TV) .... The teacher
"Centennial" .... Charlotte Buckland Seccombe (12 episodes, 1978-1979) - The Scream of Eagles (1979) TV episode .... Charlotte Buckland Seccombe - The Winds of Death (1979) TV episode .... Charlotte Buckland Seccombe - The Winds of Fortune (1979) TV episode .... Charlotte Buckland Seccombe - The Crime (1979) TV episode .... Charlotte Buckland Seccombe - The Storm (1979) TV episode .... Charlotte Buckland Seccombe (7 more)
Disco Beaver from Outer Space (1978) (TV) .... Dr. Van Helsing ... aka "National Lampoon Presents Disco Beaver from Outer Space" - USA (alternative title)... aka "National Lampoon's Disco Beaver from Outer Space" - USA (alternative title)
"Kojak" .... Claire (1 episode, 1976) - A Hair-Trigger Away (1976) TV episode .... Claire
The Big Bus (1976) .... Camille Levy
The Happy Hooker (1975) .... Xaviera Hollander
Daft As a Brush (1975) (TV)
The Turn of the Screw (1974/I) (TV) .... Miss Jane Cubberly
"Vienna 1900" .... Berta Garlan (1 episode, 1974) - The Spring Sonata (1974) TV episode .... Berta Garlan
"BBC Play of the Month" .... Eliza Doolittle / ... (2 episodes, 1971-1973) - Pygmalion (1973) TV episode .... Eliza Doolittle - A Midsummer Night's Dream (1971) TV episode .... Helena
The Shape of Things (1973) (TV)
"ABC Afterschool Specials" .... Various Characters (1 episode, 1973) - William: The Life, Works and Times of William Shakespeare (1973) TV episode .... Various Characters
The National Health (1973) .... Nurse Sweet/Nurse Betty Martin
Every Thing You Always Wanted to Know About Sex * But Were Afraid to Ask (1972) .... The Queen ... aka "Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sex" - USA (short title)
Every Little Crook and Nanny (1972) .... Nanny
¡Viva la muerte... tua! (1971) .... Mary O'Donnell ... aka "Don't Turn the Other Cheek" - USA
Last of the Mobile Hot Shots (1970) .... Myrtle
The Virgin Soldiers (1969) .... Phillipa Raskin
"A Touch of Venus" (1968) TV series
"Love Story" .... Mary Downey (1 episode, 1968) - The Egg on the Face of the Tiger (1968) TV episode .... Mary Downey
Smashing Time (1967) .... Yvonne
"Armchair Theatre" .... Caroline / ... (4 episodes, 1963-1967) - I Am Osango (1967) TV episode .... Ivy Toft - What's Wrong with Humpty Dumpty? (1967) TV episode .... Caroline - Pretty Polly (1966) TV episode .... Polly Barlow - Power and Glory (1963) TV episode
The Deadly Affair (1966) .... Virgin (segment "Macbeth")
Georgy Girl (1966) .... Georgy
"Comedy Playhouse" .... Sheila (1 episode, 1966) - The End of the Tunnel (1966) TV episode .... Sheila
Sunday Out of Season (1965) (TV) .... Elaine
Girl with Green Eyes (1964) .... Baba Brennan
Tom Jones (1963) .... Susan, Upton Inn

Lynn, of course, is sister to Vanessa Redgrave and aunt to Natasha Richardson.

Lynn and Vanessa. (Lynn on the right.)

Lynn and Vanessa: Both Acting Greats in Their Own Right- both from a Rich and Respected Acting Dynasty!

Lynn and Niece Natasha Richardson. :)

Lynn.......Love You- and Thanks. ♥

Note: All photos were posted from the internet.

2009-08-25T23:59:00.000-07:00

Eunice Kennedy Shriver-A great Hero : GREAT WOMEN SERIES

2009-08-11T12:11:00.000-07:00

Eunice Kennedy Shriver's influence has no bounds. Her work and activism on behalf of those Who would probably not have received it otherwise cannot be quantified. When Her brother-My Hero President John F. Kennedy was President, She was a major influence in His being the First President to really shed light and cast awareness on the plight of Mentally Challenged People. Eunice, Your efforts are so Christ-Like. You are A HERO to Me.

Julie & Julia-Review # 11

2009-08-08T21:36:00.000-07:00

Julie & Julia is a film that is first and foremost about Love, I think. Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart said: "Neither a Lofty degree of intelligence nor imagination nor both together go to the making of Genius. Love, Love, Love-That is the Soul of Genius". Julia Child needed to find a passion-a love in Paris at the close of WWII. Her husband is certainly the most important person in Her world, but She needed something to occupy her. Childless and frustrated, She tried her hand at millinery among other things. But when Julia Child decided to tangle with the Boys in a competitive cooking class (in which the competition was made more stiff due to the population of returning soldiers-and a contrary school head), She learned more than She even did before that SHE LOVES FOOD!!!! She found her niche and Her passion. Unpolished as She was, Her status as a meticulous authority and author of her famous book(s) is legendary. Nothing less than a "cooking/food/taste scientist", She wanted to create something that would open up the exclusive world of French Cooking/Cuisine up to English speaking (mostly American) Housewives more than it had ever been. She developed the expert feel for this art with much research and hard work. She could be curt and authoritative, but She had earned that right. This fascinating story of Child's is paralleled and intertwined with the story of Julie Powell-a woman with a government job and a need to follow through with something-anything. A suggestion from Her Husband to start a blog becomes a mission to stay focused. But then it becomes so much more. Her Love for food leads her to invite the blogging world (at the very least the readers that followed Her) to read Her blog entries each day for a Year as She determined to go through and complete each recipe in the Most famous book of Julia's-Mastering The Art of French Cooking. She gave an honest account of Her Triumphs and Melt-Downs in this Year-Long quest. Her blog gained a faithful following. This kind of intertwining of two People's lives in a film screenplay is kind of similar to what was done in another Film -The Hours. (Meryl Streep-Who, of course plays the role of Child is also in The Hours). But the difference is that this story of Child and Powell being intertwined is based on the true story of Child's and Powell's as She completed each recipe in Child's Book. That gives a satisfying aspect to the film from the get-go.

First of all, Streep is NEVER less than a Revelation. Her perfection as an actress knows no bounds. From mimicking Child's distinctive voice and nailing just about any other of Child's famous and recognizable idiosyncrasies to Her adept comic timing, Streep fills the role of Child unsurprisingly with flair and a comedic zing that is delightful. Stanley Tucci as Paul Child is in good form. There is a nice, warm chemistry between Streep and Tucci. They have worked together before, of course, but I think that this is their finest film together. Amy Adams as Powell is DELIGHTFUL. There is something always gentle and inviting about Adams. She definitely brings the Film along with Her own formidable talent. She, too is hilarious in many scenes. That is one thing that I LOVE about this movie. The important Historical themes and issues along with Philosophical ones of this film are rich-and the comedic parts of this film are MANY and really frost the cake. Streep is always so subtle and understated as an actress with dramatic elements that one feels the wallop without being beaten over the head with them. (A scene dealing with Child's sister announcing by Post that She is expecting a child-and the issue of Child not having any children is a case in point.) Yes-the acting is fabulous. The Prodigious talent of Nora Ephron as a Writer, Producer, and Director is again Manifest in this film. It is excellent work all the way around. (Ephron teamed with Julie Powell to write the screenplay based on Powell's book of the same title-along with using info. from Bios of Child.) Costuming is GREAT. I see maybe an Oscar nod for Ann Roth in that category! I, of course, won't be surprised to see Streep and maybe even Adams nominated. Nice Stuff. So Yeah. Love. The most touching aspect of the film is the Love that Julie Powell feels for Child-this woman that She felt so akin to-Her cooking Sensai in a BIG way (Even though it was just through Julia's recipe/instruction books). Both women-so thorough and precise-this teaching all that One can be thorough and precise no matter their circumstance; That one can acheive excellence despite drawbacks. It takes just the will, the desire, the FOCUS.......THE LOVE. Do Your Homework. Pick what You LOVE and do it. You will never be sorry-and LOVE the journey finding what that is no matter how long that takes. I give this film 3.5 out of 4 stars.

Thanks, Kazzy for a Kaz-Tastic time! :-)

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince - Review #10

2009-07-18T12:29:00.000-07:00

Why was it done to us? November 2008 was the slated release date of this anticipated Film adaptation of J.K. Rowling's sixth in her masterpiece series-But alas, We were forced to wait for eight more months. Torture. But finally, it is here. Here is my Review of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. SPOILER ALERT.

The problem with creating a Film adaptation for these books is the same problem that was had with the Chronicles of Narnia films. There is just no real way to do the books full justice in a Film. Something must be left out. (I feel that for this reason especially, The Fourth Film installment-Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire is by far the weakest film adaptation so far in this series-I mean, Where is Winkie, Ludo Bagman, The Whole issue of S.P.E.W? ) But, on the other hand, as I have said in my review of The Chronicles of Narnia:Prince Caspian, I itch with curiosity to see what others can make of these stories; and what light they shed on the characters. That is the main issue that I have with adapting this kind of literature to a Feature film. Can there really be the kind of character development that these characters deserve? Having said that, The character of Albus Dumbledore has become one of the most beloved and Iconic characters in all of Fantasy Fiction-if not Fiction. His complexity and humanity has a Yin-Yang kind of juxtaposition with his serene swagger and self-awareness . He is a character that accepts the need for self-correction, but is not unaware of His abilities. As the title character, Harry Potter relies on Dumbledore heavily. There is plenty of trauma and drama for Dumbledore in this film. If You have read the book, You know that well. *Sigh* Many were in uproar at Jo Rowling for "doing that" to Dumbledore. Soooooo How did Daniel Radcliffe(Potter) and Michael Gambon(Dumbledore) do? VERY Well, I think. Gambon did better in this film than any other He has acted in in this series. I was VERY impressed. (I have to admit that I think that Richard Harris-the first to play Dumbledore in the series-fits the role better in My opinion. He oozes the serenity that I picture Dumbledore having. But the crucial cave scene was hit DEAD-ON by Gambon, Who I think has generally played the part a bit too rough.)

The relationship of Harry and Dumbledore is rich and poigniant. An Eternal Friendship. As Dumbledore faces His difficult challenge in the cave, He reminds us of this. The quotes "I am safe with You, Harry", "Your blood is more precious than Mine", and "Once again, I must ask too much of You, Harry" shows the respect and esteem that Dumbledore holds for Him. The cave scene set my mind spinning. Knowing the story in advance-(having read all the Books and proudly owning them) makes me analyze Dumbledore this way: Maybe taking Harry to the spot where the pivotal scene takes place in the cave was SELFISH of Dumbledore? Does having all this set up the way He did mean in some way at least that Dumbledore escaped his demons by taking an Easy way out? Hard to think of it that way for those who Love Dumbledore's character, I am sure. A man of style that orchestrates his own circumstance maybe was just not able to face what He knew was coming for him. He could not endure it to the end of that particular trial. But that is the Genius of these stories. They are a study of Human Nature. Of course Rowling wanted these kinds of questions raised in our minds.

Anyway, Enough of that. I am here to review a movie. The acting was fabulous. All main characters were acted well. Tom Felton has just grown perfectly in the role as Draco. And
I REALLY liked Jim Broadbent as Slughorn. He is a great character actor. Physically He wasn't as I pictured Slughorn, but He was fabulous in the role. Evanna Lynch as Luna (One of My MOST favorite characters) is a total delight. There was not Enough of Her or Tonks (-Another Most Favorite character). :'-( Of course, Helena Bonham Carter also does NOT get enough time on screen. She is eerie and dangerously perfect as Bellatrix. ( UGH! Again, that is the problem. Not enough time for character development in feature length films for this kind of adaptation! Am I repeating Myself?) Of course, this is to say nothing of My greatest Harry Potter crush, SEVERUS SNAPE! (Well, there is Regulus Black, too. But I await HIM in the NEXT film. ) ;-) Rickman is beyond DIVINE. The Cinematography is FABULOUS to look at. A visual treat. Cinematographic processDigital Intermediate (2K) (master format)IMAX Digital 3-D (some scenes) (IMAX version)Super 35 (source format) . Steve Kloves adapted the book to screenplay, and did quite a good job. (As I said, He did a MUCH better adaptation for this film than He did for Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.) David Yates, who also directed Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix stepped it up a notch. Well done. There was a palpable eeriness to the film. The mood was set perfectly. It created the feeling I had reading the Book as well as a Film could, I think. The Main three Actors(Radcliffe as Harry, Rupert Grint as Ron, and Emma Watson as Hermione) have a great chemistry.
Best Harry Potter film Yet BY FAR!!!!! :-D
3 out of 4 stars.
Yay-I saw it! :-) Thanks, Aunt and Hen! ♥

Reminded of Courage While"Thelma and Louising" with Kaz, Marsha, and Tiffany!

2009-06-30T22:30:00.000-07:00

I think that Courage is the most baffling and amazing quality. The kind of Courage that I am thinking of is the kind that is used to prove Devotion-True Belief. It is quite Polarizing for someone to use this kind of Courage, because it often must be used outside the "normal" realm of reason. It doesn't Help win any Popularity contests, that is for sure. Anyway...........I was really happy to go on a trip-a road trip-back East with My Dear Friend Karen and Wonderful, Newly-Made Friends Tiffany and Marsha; and this trip is what inspired these thoughts about Courage.

Here they are:

Courage to Show Faith and Devotion : JOSEPH SMITH

The Prophet Joseph Smith is an Exemplar and an Enigma to Me. I know that He is a Prophet. Why would anyone do all that He did unless they are TRULY convinced? Still, all that He did for the Church and His Belief in God took SUPREME Courage; But I also want to talk of His bravery all along, and how this is The Quality of His Person-The Courage He has always Showed in ALL instances . I think of Joseph Getting Bone hacked out of His leg as a Boy-Refusing Spirits for Relief, and Trusting that His father was comfort Enough-Both His Heavenly Father and Joseph Sr. as Joseph Sr. held and comforted Young Joseph through the surgery. I think of Him trying to deal with the daily stress that He dealt with When He was filled with anxiety about the Sacred Plates that He was entrusted with. Hiding Places. Getting Help. Rude, Lashing Comments-and Horrific acts against Him by Evil disposed Mobs, and on top of that- Stress that In-Laws weren't warmed up to Him at First. Family Hardships, Betrayals, .... Joseph is AMAZING.

Here is the Kirtland Temple that Joseph asked the Saints to Help Build. Courageous work and Sacrifice went into this building!

Here are More Cool sites in Church History that We Visited including the Temples that We saw!!!

A First Edition Copy of the Book of Mormon at the Hill Cumorah Visitor's Center. :-)

The Historic Johnson Residence Where the 76th Section of the D&C was Received By Joseph.
This one is SO important to Church History-The Newell K. Whitney Store!

The St. Louis Temple

Palmyra, NY Temple

Columbus, OH Temple

Nauvoo Temple

COURAGE AND THE CIVIL RIGHTS BATTLE: JOHN F. KENNEDY

Me Where Kennedy Lived-TOO COOL!!!!! Wish I could Have toured inside!!!!!! :-/

Yes. It is true. Many have tried to defame, but that is what the Courageous deal with. Kennedy is not given the credit that He deserves for his Brave and Unyielding Stance on Civil Rights. He is the FIRST President to Issue a study on the status of Women's Rights and the Equal Pay issue! Further, In an interview He stated that He was "Delighted" to have Daughter Caroline, and said that Women's abilities to serve their countries were equal to Men, and that Equally Great things could be expected of Women. He believed a Woman would one day be President.

These were NOT popular views, but Kennedy Stood Fast in support for Progressive Civil Rights Legislation and Voting Rights. Without Him, these things would not gone ahead as they did.

Here is an awesome Pic of the Lincoln Memorial where Dr. King gave his "I Have A Dream" Speech.

I am SO glad to Have been able to take this Pic! Thanks, Kaz For Letting Me Go! :-)

And FINALLY...............

Courage in the face of Snoring!!!!

Dear Marsha....She is Not addressing the Snoring issue as this Pic is taken, but I can tell You that the body language in this Photo is Pretty close to what it would be if She expressed Her feelings about the Snoring -My Snoring. :-/

*All Photos are Taken By Me in this Blog Entry Except, of Course, The Pictures of The Prophet Joseph Smith and President Kennedy with Dr. King.

Happy Father's Day, Dad! ♥

2009-06-20T23:07:00.000-07:00

I thought I would Post these Pictures to wish My Dear Dad a Happy Father's Day! The bottom pic, of course, is of Me as a Tot with Dad.

FAMILY HOME EVENING WITH GWEN STEFANI-EXCEEDING ALL EXPECTATIONS!!!!!

2009-05-26T00:33:00.000-07:00

THERE'S "No DOUBT" !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This was one of the Best and Most Surreal experiences EVER!
Gwen Gracing a Screen!

Gwen in Awesome form. I was so EXCITED to film this vid!!!!! WATCH THIS!!!!! :-D I think I did a good job!

;-)

Kay. First of all, this has been the BEST CONCERT EVER. As the title of this entry says, The No Doubt concert EXCEEDED ALL EXPECTATIONS. What a night. This will always be a treasured Experience-FOREVER! Before I recount the fabulous happenings, I need to thank People for this Experience. MOM...THANKS! :'-D WOW. The best thing ever. CLIFF And JENNA, thanks for letting Me and Mom use Your PayPal!!! You two give new meaning to the term "PayPal"!!!!! :-D KATE......THANKS FOR THE RIDE!!!!!!!! It could NOT have happened without You! I OWE YA! EM.................THANKS FOR JUMPING UP AND DOWN IN PLACE LIKE A MANIAC WITH ME!

Me and Em inside the E Center-Excitement palpable!!!!! I think that Paramore was still performing.

O.K. Here are Pics and Highlights!!!!!! :

Excitement could NEVER more palpable at any concert for Me than this. A really nice tall Lady that was Dressed as Gwen stood By Me and Em for a while, and took this pic for Me. When the sihlouettes first showed as Gwen and the Boys were announced, THINGS WERE HAPPY BEDLAM! We were all "out of control". X-D

AWESOME HAIR, HUH?????????

Ohhhhhhhhhh Man. How COOL IS SHE?????????????????????? AMAZING ENERGY!

Things that happened at the concert that were AWESOME: (ERRR...The WHOLE THING WAS AWESOME!)

1. The audience sang "Happy Birthday" to Gwen's darling son Kingston James. :-D What a cool thing! That kid is ADORABLE!!!!!♥ Gwen brought him on stage and Held him as we all sang! Too bad My batteries ran out of juice before this happened! X'-(

2. I was hit on the shoulder by a water bottle that Gwen threw-(YES, GWEN HERSELF!) into the audience along with t-shirts and stuff. The sad thing is that I didn't get the momento.

:-( Some lady snatched it before I could grab it right as it hit Me! X-( Needless to say this was not at all dangerously done or painful-Welll.....It actually is painful -There's the memory of the bottle that Gwen threw and hit Me with that got away!!!!!! UGH!

x'-/

3. The Drummer Guy Adrian Young wore a TUTU! LOL! Sorry-I didn't get a pic :-P LOL. I prefer guys to be in stuff other than Tutus, but Adrian is ALWAYS ENTERTAINING.
He has rather a Punkish look that exceeds all others in ND-Here is a pic of darling Adrian that shows that he is one to dress to the HILT. This Picture is a post from the official No Doubt Site taken before a TV appearance-of course it isn't by Me. This is the only pic I didn't take (Well, there were the tall People that Helped Me)besides the official pic of the group that I posted at the top-that, too is from the official site and ND Web FanClub, of course.

4. Gwen is so kind to People. There was a darling little girl that she called out of the audience to come up on stage. The girl was dressed to the hilt as Gwen Herself. The girl had the thrill that will never leave her as Gwen hugged her and made her feel FAB meeting her fave singer and fashionista, ........GWEN, OF COURSE. Awwwwww, Man. :-)

5. I will always fondly think of the moment when Gwen asked only the Men in the audience to sing "I'm just a Girl" along with her! LOL
That was beyond awesome-especially when she went in Riot-Girl mode after and all the Ladies sang it!!!!!!! :-D AHHHHHHHHH....SISTAHHOOD!

Finally.......Stuff For the Scrapbook, etc!!!!!!!

My ticket, wristband,and the cool shirt My Buddy Em bought for ME!!!! EM, YOU ROCK!!!! The two pics below that: Back view of my shirt, and a better front view pic.

Happy Mother's Day-Mother's Day Special

2009-05-09T23:39:00.000-07:00

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO ALL MOTHERS!!!!!! ♥ :-D

Ms. Holm wishes all Mothers a Happy Mother's Day. Here is a Special link I would like to share in honor of all "Mums". :-) http://www.twotuttles.com/scarlet.html PLEASE take time to look at it. I think it is sweet-and very moving! It is almost hard to look at, but Look at it and You will know Why I posted this link.

Here is a Pic of My own Mom. :-) It is of her (and Me as a Baby).

ELIZABETH CADY STANTON-FIREBRAND---CHERRANNE'S GREAT WOMEN SERIES

2009-05-02T04:16:00.000-07:00

****CHERRANNE'S GREAT WOMEN SERIES****

Elizabeth Cady Stanton-Hero and Firebrand

I have always felt that there are as many brands of feminism as there are feminists. The world over, Women's lots have been SO varied especially compared to men. There are a few great women in history, however, who have had the vision to bring women together in a common cause despite the diametric differences among them-Elizabeth Cady Stanton is foremost among them. The only problem is that when a woman claims that furthering women's rights and opportunities benefits all humanity, She is immediately under scrutiny and criticism if she seems to put all emphasis on the issue of feminism as opposed to other social issues. This is the problem that Stanton faced when Frederick Douglas and other suffragettes of her age thought it more important to emancipate African-Americans rather than put effort into the cause of women (which at that time was basically the issue of the right for Women to vote). Stanton is a Hero of mine. Her writings and speeches are among the greatest(and most underappreciated) stuff ever written. If You haven't read Stanton's "Solitude of Self", read it NOW!!! She lays out her philosophies about human rights and Women's rights in astounding clarity with the astuteness of a Seasoned Lawyer. Here is a link that will take You to it: http://www.pbs.org/stantonanthony/resources/index.html?body=solitude_self.html -it is sublime. Before that, She drafted the Declaration of Sentiments numbering the injustices that women faced and declaring a bill of rights at the 1848 Women's Rights Convention-The link: http://www.pinn.net/~sunshine/book-sum/seneca3.html .

Stanton, a mother to seven children is known as a "girly-girl" type in manner and dress, but intellectually is without peer. Her writings are the foundation of Modern Woman's suffrage. She dealt with gross treatment and disrespect. The bravery She is famous for has paved a smoother road for Women in this country. She also was involved in the Emancipation movement for African-American slaves, and the Temperance Movement. I honor Stanton. She is without a doubt one of the Greatest People in History; and for sure one of the most underrated. I highly recommend that anyone and everyone watch the Ken Burns film Not for Ourselves Alone: The Story of Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony. It is SO well researched and fabulously well-done (as are all Burns films). It is gratifying to see this kind of tribute.

Treasures Found Stored in a Cardboard Box- Pictures of Dad on His Mission

2009-04-24T16:51:00.000-07:00

DAD went on his mission to Taiwan. His Cardboard box revealed these treasures from his mission-rolls of film!!!!!!!! :-D Pictures are beyond precious and then some to Me...and that's just any good photo-but these.............................

My Dad called his Mission a great adventure. Here he displays talent as a troubadour! :-D I am sure he was called on often to sing and play on his mission.

Dad is on the left. :-) Wish I could name the others offhand!

Cool Dude, Dedicated Missionary!

Dad and a companion
.

Love Dad in this. He is, of course, on the right.

The Lord, I know, is pleased with this missionary. Dad's deep Love for the People of Taiwan is legendary. I Love his stories, his Chinese handbooks, his funny way of Speaking Mandarin and the funny poems he learned in Mandarin. He has always been Studious and Dedicated. I Love You, Dad. Your Example has been so important to Me. You have always viewed service as a privilege. We all need to do that. :-) ♥ Thanks.

Honoring Bill Orton

2009-04-20T01:21:00.000-07:00

I get a wistful, idealistic feeling when I think of My experience Volunteer Campaigning for Bill Orton. I was in High School and met Orton at Gene Faux's home. He spoke for a while to us, (campaign volunteers) and I was kind of starstruck. Orton's enthusiasm, gentlemanliness, and utter brilliance stuck Me deeply. There was no pettiness or dirty Political Down-talking of the other guy. He sent us on our way to hand out literature and make a personal connection with potential voters. All positive and can-do. Very cool and business-like with a head for facts; he was equally engaging and personable. I was really impressed.

Before John McCain became famous for coining himself as a "maverick", Bill Orton was the original maverick. He voted against Party lines routinely and voted his conscience. When I wrote him to encourage him to keep funding for PBS safe, he replied and assured me of his commitment to that important issue. He never used idealistic rhetoric to cloud issues. He worked with sweat to make ideal things happen. His reputation as one of the smartest guys in congress was unquestioned. His courage as a Gubernatorial Canidate was added to with grace, reason, and conviction. His brilliance in Law impresses Me to no end.

I am honored to have seen him at a Political Convention followed around busily in the halls between speeches by many people who obviously knew Orton knew his stuff. A Brilliant Doer, Mover, Shaker; He is a legend of Utah politics. I will never forget his win to congress the first time He ran. What a beautiful moment for Utah.

Bill is A Beloved Husband, Father, asset to his Faith and community-beyond reproach in the eyes of his colleagues. Thanks, Bill Orton-for everything! Bless You and Your Family.

Once In A Great While.........

2009-04-16T15:36:00.000-07:00

Once in a Great While someone comes along and puts theirself out there and teaches Great Humility in the nicest possible way. Susan Boyle, YOU ROCK. I just barely saw this and will NEVER be the same. :-D

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nox2DRCAKxk

So Sorry-Embedding was disabled on ALL posts of this performance, but click on the Link and watch!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Carrie-Review #9-Cinema Saturday Make-Up

2009-04-14T17:58:00.000-07:00

If You haven't read Sister Carrie by Theodore Dreiser, do it. As for Carrie-the 1952 film based on the classic Dreiser Novel, This is a film that has dissapointed Me a bit. First of all, the ending was ALL wrong. It is at best confusing and at worst completely skims important parts of the story-but that happens all the way through. Sister Carrie is a story I would LOVE to adapt to screenplay and direct. I have read it twice, and will read it again and again. It is a fascinating tale (a cautionary one, too) about the effect of the world and how one views what is neccesary relative to what lifestyle they are used to, and how desires can easily drive someone awry.

Laurence Olivier is a sublime actor and plays the role of George Hurstwood very well-to the hilt, in fact. Jennifer Jones is the title character, Caroline Meeber. She does well. These two Oscar winners are amazing to watch despite the poor screenplay adaption. Eddie Albert plays the Role of Charles Druet, and does pretty well. (If I casted a movie based on this story, Tom Cruise would be begged by me on bended knee to play Drouet.) I think that the acting is the strength of the movie. The plot involves the coming-of -age of Young Caroline Meeber. "Carrie" as she is called makes her way to Chicago to live with her sister and her sister's family while she begins to seek her fortune. There are many slaps in the face for Carrie-Reality is a harsh companion along the way, but is edged out again and again because Carrie's naievete and good looks make her prime pickings for men of the world. She descends gradually and easily into her predicaments and finally is immersed in a lifestyle wholly disconnected from reality and the values she arrived with in Chicago. Jennifer Jones is great. She is Queen of the Doe-in-Headlights look and the innocent and Earnest Heroine is what she plays best-but can Carrie be called a Heroine? You make the Call. It is worth a look for the performances. Directed by William Wyler. I give this film 2 out of 4 stars.

*Blogger's Note-This is a Make-Up for this past Easter Weekend's break. Ms.Holm will be back on schedule!

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T00:08:00.000-07:00

Ms. Holm is contemplating all that Easter Is and Means-and Encourages You to do the same. There will be No Movie Review for this Weekend.

ROSALIND E. FRANKLIN-CHERRANNE'S GREAT WOMEN SERIES

2009-04-09T02:21:00.000-07:00

****CHERRANNE'S GREAT WOMEN SERIES****

ROSALIND E. FRANKLIN-Scientist(molecular biologist)

Where to begin. Rosalind Franklin is a Fave-She just blows Me away. The moment I heard about her, I wanted to scream to the World: "GET THIS-THIS GENIUS IS ROBBED"! >:-( She immediately gained HERO status for Me. This high-brow British Scientist from Jewish descent is fascinating to the hilt; Her contributions to humanity are baffling to say the least, but sadly unsung. The thing is, however, She doesn't really care. She is too cool to "need" the adulation of anyone, but has Mine whole-heartedly anyway. And as for being a feminist icon, She stands on her own as one of the VERY BEST scientists EVER. Being compared to Sylvia Plath as a "wronged woman" in her field doesn't fly with Me because These are Two diametrically different women in so many ways. (Love Sylvia-She will have her own "GREAT WOMEN" profile soon here on Ms. Holm's Soapbox.) Rosalind simply has no self-pity or involvement in Mental Self-Torture. Gutsy, Determined, and laser-focused on her work; She is never anything but cool-headed and analytical. She defies being a victim of circumstance. She just raises an eyebrow and moves to the next project.

Crick and Watson???? BAH. Sure, they contributed................WHATEVER. THIS IS THE REAL HERO OF DNA SCIENCE!!!!!!! And for Me-all science period. Watch this amazing snippet from the NOVA special entitled "The Secret of Photo 51"!!!!!!!

Here is the YouTube link-You can watch the whole thing!!!!! (You will easily find each section.) I recommend it!!! I know it is a bit of a tease to just post the first opening section, but DO sit down and watch the whole thing. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0SEuOcnoOw

ALSO, These Books are a MUST for Franklinites:

The first is By Brenda Maddox who inspired the NOVA special, and the other is by Anne Sayre.

Here is a cool Quote:

"In [The Double Helix, Watson] tells about how happy they were, he and Crick, that my husband was not allowed to come because had he come, he would no doubt have seen these excellent photographs that Rosalind Franklin made and had and which, when they saw them, with their other data, they were able to work out the structure of DNA...[If] ever there was a woman who was mistreated, it was Rosalind Franklin, and she didn't get the notice that she should have gotten for her work on DNA."Ava Helen Pauling. Interview with Lee Herzenberg. September 1977.

Nobel in 1962 for Watson, Crick, and Wilkins??????? Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. >:-( That makes Me PULL OUT MY MAD face...but I must remember to take a lesson from Rosalind. Only expend energy on important stuff! What others do and think should never control what You do or think. Keep Your Cool and be EXCELLENT-that is the best "revenge". Thanks, Rosalind. Thanks for those lessons, and for giving SO UNBELIEVABLY MUCH TO HUMANITY for so little.

;-) Not that You were asking for any thanks.

Brightness of Faith=Brightness of Future! The Prophet at the 179th Annual General Conference of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints

2009-04-06T22:16:00.001-07:00

Brightness of Faith=Brightness of Future...........

At first glance the equation would probably seem a bit too baffling or even simplistic for those who don't have the benefit of the knowledge of the Restored Gospel of Jesus Christ-and indeed probably might seem that way for many who do. When the Prophet Thomas S. Monson said in the Sunday Morning Session(April 5th) : "Fear Not, Be of Good Cheer-Your Future is as Bright as Your Faith", it was as if a lightbulb was turned on again for me. The fact that My Future would indeed be as bright as My faith was in a way disconcerting at first-There is a LOT of ugliness out there to distract and dampen. The Fog of discouragement is often thick. But as we grow and push as hard as we can toward making our faith as bright as we can make it, the Future part of the equation will be something to thank Our Heavenly Father and Savior for. I thank My Heavenly Father for this Prophet. He is a man who loves You and Me. He is sensitive to Suffering of others. He is a supernal representative of Our Heavenly Father and Savior in every way. He loves Literature. He Loves Learning. He has held positions in the Church and has served and sacrificed for others in many ways that will most likely remain unknown. He shirks his own comfort when others are in distress. I am thankful for this Prophet. :-)

Here is a Cool Link to a story I found about the Prophet. Take time to read it!

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695265219,00.html

Blogger's Note: Ms. Holm apologizes for the lateness of this entry!

BLOGGER'S NOTICE:No Movie Review this Weekend-There will be a LDS General Conference Entry Tomorrow.

2009-04-05T12:10:00.000-07:00

My Dream Concert! ARGERICH-CHERRANNE'S GREAT WOMEN SERIES

2009-04-02T01:54:00.000-07:00

****CHERRANNE'S GREAT WOMEN SERIES****

MARTHA ARGERICH- ♫Pianist♫

This is a YouTube video of Ms. Argerich performing the First movement or so of the fabled "Rach 3" in the early '80's.

Martha Argerich is one of my HEROES. The effortlessness with which She tackles the Piano keys is SO UNREAL!!!!!!! I have heard tell that she memorizes music to be played in concert on a plane (without practice), and then PERFORMS without a hitch. I am APPALLED at that kind of sight-reading and memorization skills. I didn't mention, of couse, her EXPRESSION, feeling and technique. For her mastery of those, there are NO WORDS. She, in My opinion is the GREATEST PIANIST EVER!!!!!!!! If I got to pick ANYONE TO SEE IN CONCERT, IT WOULD BE HER THAT I WOULD PICK FIRST. Just to watch her fingers race across the keyboard in a way no other can touch would be truly something that I would LOVE to experience in concert.-JUST WATCH THE VIDEO!!! :-O AMAZING!

I LOVE THIS QUOTE:

"Argerich brings to bear qualities that are seldom contained in one person: she is a pianist of brainteasing technical agility; she is a charismatic woman with an enigmatic reputation; she is an unaffected interpreter whose native language is music. This last may be the quality that sets her apart. A lot of pianists play huge double octaves; a lot of pianists photograph well. But few have the unerring naturalness of phrasing that allows them to embody the music rather than interpret it." - Alex Ross for The New Yorker in a 2001 article-(copied from Wikipedia)

Martha was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on June 5, 1941. If Anyone fit the description of musical prodigy, it is her. She debuted at age eight playing Beethoven no less! She is PURE GENIUS.

MERE YAAR KI SHAADI HAI (My Friend's Wedding)- Review #8

2009-03-29T02:49:00.000-07:00

The Film by Yash Chopra-Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai (My Friend's Wedding)-is pretty much My introduction to "Bollywood Film". As I sat down to watch it, I was sucked in by this entransing film even with the kitsch. Of course in this film, I am happy to say, there are ample Life lessons about the nature, shades, and complexities of friendship and love hidden under the kitsch.

The characters are ingratiating. A main character Sanjay(Uday Chopra) is a happy-go-lucky guy living in Mubai, but his one problem is that he CANNOT develop a relationship. He feels secure and is complacent, however, until he receives the phone call that shakes him to the core. His Dear Friend from childhood who he has shared most of his life with informs him that She is getting married. Her name is Anjali(played by Sanjana)-The reason no other relationship with any other girl will work . He gushes about her from the depths of his subconscious to a Friend, Ria(Bipasha Basu) just prior to recieving this call, and directly after the call confides to Ria that he will go directly to Dehradoon to her wedding party and break the wedding. The first great Lesson from this film that struck Me is this: "Some things can only be comprehended out of loss". (This is word-for-word or at least very close-a line from Ria as Sanjay laments Anjali's wedding.) How true this is! But Sanjay has hope! As he meets the wedding party, he is his usual fun-loving self, but his worries mount as he meets the prospective bridegroom. Rohit(Jimmy Shergill), Anjali's fiancee, is a debonair charmer-and very successful as a doctor in the U.S. Handsome and worldly, Rohit is adored at first sight by the whole family (although a hilarious scene with photos of an ape before he is met is too funny-a situaton orchestrated by Sanjay, this scene is a classic-but I will discuss the music interludes shortly). There must be soul-searching and revelation before the Triangle is resolved. (I can't say that it compares with the Japanese film/literature obsession with repressed feelings and duty and honor above all as in Remains of the Day, but the quote in Howard's End, the great Novel seems to apply-"Only Connect"! I guess all of us at one time or another keep feelings that we either were not fully conscious that we have (in which it is sometimes too late) or even more common are repressed to avoid hurt or rejecton. In this particular story, the prospect of loss is the catalyst for action, but the remedy is the same for all cases: BE HONEST AND UP FRONT WITH YOUR FEELINGS. CONNECT.

The spectacle was fun and a visual treat. The actors all did well in their parts. The music was fun, the dancing was spectacular (Man.........I wonder if ALL Indian actors have to dance that well as well as act. Is it a prerequisite? Uday was fabulous.) The parts that were musical were often funny. The Triangle of Anjali, Sanjay, and Rohit was dealt with in such a gentlemanly way by the characters. Sure, there is competition, but If only there could be more of that kind behavior in "reality". Just watch the film. Thanks for hooking Me to this exciting new genre, Kaz!!!!! :-D

The Parent Trap(1998)- Review #7

2009-03-28T23:55:00.000-07:00

As I promised, I am reviewing a Film that Natasha Richardson has appeared in, and will continue to do more!

The Parent Trap(1998) is a movie that has all the qualifications of a movie that I wouldn't be interested in(especially at first sight and also seeing snippits of the Hayley Mills version as a kid and not being impressed didn't help). I don't do well suspending My dis-belief, so it is easy to see how a movie about two eleven-year-old girls meeting at a summer camp who just happen to be separated-at birth identical twins separated in VERY unlikely circumstances (O.K.-IT WOULD NEVER HAPPEN!!!) -meaning that their parents separated and "felt" that they wanted no more contact with each other. To make things as "painless" as possible for each other, they each take one of the twin girls and vow never to let the knowledge of this reach the daughters. WHAT THE........ LOL. WOW. Again, seeing the 1961 version turned me off of the story and hearing about a remake passed through my consciousness well......Not at all. I guess I really never even cared to see it until now. So that is when I sat down on the living floor, popped it in......and was really pleasantly pleased with Lindsay Lohan's Performance(s)! Sure. There is My personal fave Jodie Foster, and also others like Tatum O'Neal, and a slew of other child actors who give performances that are infinitely more remarkable, but Lohan was fun to watch. She emoted well, and was never really out-of-synch playing the two girls. As far as the clicheted stuff that was BOUND to come with the movie, the scenery of California and a little bit of London are beautifully shot-and I daresay make up for some of the cliche baggage. What also REALLY helps is the performances of Dennis Quaid(as Nick Parker-the girls' father-he raises the rambunctious twin Hallie on a vineyard in California) and a deliciously mean Meredith Blake(Elaine Hendrix) who might just be the chink in the plan for the twin girls to reunite their birth parents. Yeah-the story is well known by many, so spoiler alert is not really warranted too much, but what I really recommend, again, is the fun the actors bring to this movie-Which brings Me to Natasha Richardson. Natasha is in the role of Elizabeth James-the girls' bridal-dress designing and proper british mother (who raises the twin Annie as a proper Little Brit )-again, separated from the father that they want her reunited with after they bond at camp and find every need possible to put their family back together. Natasha has recently been described by Meryl Streep as the "Sun" in Her circle of Friends. There is no reflection here-Her warmth, talent and professionalism are just straight from the source. For real. Natasha is luminous, fabulous, funny and ingratiating. Just check out the part where she is in melt-down mode when.........LOL. Just watch the movie. I give it 2.5 out of 4 stars. This film is directed by Nancy Meyers, who also was one of the screenplay adaptors.

*Blogger's Note: There will be a special post Monday Reviewing a Bollywood Extravaganza thanks to "Kazzy" Burton. :-) Be sure to check in on that! ;-D

Curious George, the Four-Year-Old Wonder. ♥ Happy Birthday, GEORGE!

2009-03-24T03:00:00.000-07:00

♥Newborn George-My First Nephew♥

An "Armed" George with Granny.

The man of the hour bouncing on the couch in a post-cake sugar high!

Auntie Meg Gave George this adorable wind-up Monkey. Can You Guess what I am thinking???? This little wind-up monkey reminds me of the beginning scenes of the film Rebel Without A Cause where a young James Dean clings to a little Wind-Up toy Monkey as he is taken to task in a Police Station. That film is a classic dealing with teen angst. Hopefully George avoids serious angst as he matures. :-) Maybe this Little Friend can be a good talisman for "Curious George"?

This Rebel Has a Cause!!!!!....Trying to wait patiently for his piece of Cake.

Criminy!......Did they HAVE to give George a toy GUN?????? Cutest little Black-Hatted Cowdude EVER.

Me and George, the Birthday Boy.

Sunday the 22nd of March marked four years to the day that I was home alone and able to answer the phone and be the first person in the family to hear the news that George D. Holm was born. What a sweet boy! This year as we celebrated with a now four-year -old "Curious George", (two days ago-the same day that the Draper Temple was dedicated) there was a wistful, happy feeling of hope as we watched him bounce off the walls with sugar shock and play with his new loot. Thanks, George, for being a joyous force for Me. You are a sweet, unspoiled, and tender boy who has healed Me, made Me laugh, and made Me proud to be Your Aunt! LOVE YOU, GEORGE!

Natasha Jane Richardson-A Fave♥ (A Cinema Saturday Weekend Special In lieu of Cinema Saturday Review.)

2009-03-21T20:36:00.000-07:00

Natasha Jane Richardson♥

I Love Natasha Richardson. The first time I saw Natasha Richardson act was in the movie Nell. I was totally impressed! I knew she was classy, cool, and Southern.....then I learned that she was British. LOL. She hit the accent DEAD ON. I became VERY impressed. The versatility and talent for acting of this wonderful actress had impacted Me for good. Then it was Years after that that I learned she was a daughter to Vanessa Redgrave- again, this woman had earned her own kudos without any resting on her blue-blooded laurels. Her raw talent stands on its own. She has the accolades with or without belonging to her fine Acting Dynasty. So I have movies of hers on my list to see now that I am looking forward to watching. And there are the ones I have seen and always Love. From Nell to The Parent Trap on screen; from Ibsen plays to Cabaret on stage-she has proved to be one of the finest and most well-rounded entertainers ever-period. You KNOW I will be reviewing many Movies with this sublime talent in them in the near future.

Aside from her large body of work on both stage and screen, I just keep learning amazing things about her as a person deeply involved in society and activism (Her Charities, Causes, Cooking, etc....this Fiercely loved Friend affects so many in countless ways-from Family to Fans).

Love You, Natasha.

This is a WONDERFUL YouTube tribute. Good Job, Jenjane1993!

2009-03-14T19:25:00.000-07:00

Ms. Holm will not be posting a movie review today! :-P She will make it up next week.

Australia- Review #6

2009-03-06T23:00:00.000-08:00

Baz Luhrmann has done it again. He has made another Baz-terpiece. It is called Australia, and it is an unabashed love letter (as my sister puts it) to the continent from one of its most celebrated filmmakers-But Nicole Kidman and Hugh Jackman firmly put their signatures on this love letter as well with two fine and entertaining performances. I really enjoyed the chemistry Kidman and Jackman created. Kidman is such an ethereal, regal, and talented actress. I love her talent and professionalism. She is definitely in my top three fave actresses list. A miniscule part of why she is a fave of mine is that She is an extremely adept comic! Luhrmann harvests this talent from her particularly well. (Watch for this in Luhrmann's Moulin Rouge as well-for which Kidman SHOULD HAVE WON THE BEST ACTRESS OSCAR! >:^/) As far as Hugh Jackman goes, he is perfect in the role of the diamond-in-the-rough leading Man. The Meeting- and then relationship development between Kidman's Lady Sarah Ashley and Jackman's Drover is somewhat cliche, but I never really minded for a minute. (Jackman can clean up pretty well, too! :-D Just watch the movie and You will see what I mean!)

To touch on the plot just a little, Sarah Ashley arrives in Australia to check on Her husband and their Cattle Station, Faraway Downs. She arrives only to find her husband murdered and Herself between a rock and a hard spot, because She feels that She must sell all of her husband's Cattle in order to avoid the loss of Her husband's assets to a crooked Cattle Station manager (Neil Fletcher played by David Wenham) that Her husband hired. She persuades Drover, an independent Cattle drover to help Her transport the 1500 Cattle to Darwin. There are so many characters that I could discuss, but needless to say, Lady Sarah Ashley and the not-so-prim-and-proper Drover are drawn to each other, and through the rough go in getting the cattle to Darwin, they are plagued by plots of Niel Fletcher to gain a Cattle monopoly partly by taking away from Her Faraway Downs. This includes a fire, poisoned water, and murder-not to mention the fact that Fletcher is the father of a Half-Aboriginal boy, Nullah(Brandon Walters) who becomes more and more like a son to Sarah Ashley as the film goes on. Fletcher goes to great lengths to hide this. Nullah and his mother live on Faraway downs as help to Sarah. (The shameful history of the treatment of the Aboriginal people of Australia known as the "Forgotten Generation" and the Half-Aboriginal children known as the "Stolen Generation" is acknowledged in a very sensitive and meaningful manner, but to try to do justice to this disgrace in a film is basically impossible, but Luhrmann did what He set out to do.) The character Nullah in this film is a young boy -about eight- who tries to protect his mother and his self but tragedy happens to his mother and Kidman's Ashley grows to be more protective and deeply attatched to Nullah. I think to go any further would be too much of a spoiler. This film, which is an epic Western/War Drama all in one is lengthy(about three hours long) but enjoyable. Each character is representational of larger forces and groups in Austalia and its history , of course, but the characters are fleshed out well and are engaging. It is well done on many levels and layers even though a film like this is likely to bite off more than it can chew. It is BIG and EPIC!!

One last thing, the Cinematography is BREATHTAKINGLY fabulous! That is due mainly to the fabulous and rugged Australian landscape itself. So breathtaking! (Laura Ashley's primness and proper ways are unconquerable, but the untamed beauty of Australia does something to her that matures her sensibilities and relaxes her uptightness-and of course Drover has something to do with that as well.) I think that Australia is a fine film, and a fun one. I dig Baz Luhrmann's artsy style and sense of fun, humor, and grandeur. Good on Ya, Baz! I give this film 3 out of 4 stars.

Note to readers from Ms. Holm: Don't give up on Me! A Slumdog Millionaire Review is forthcoming!

Amazing Grace-Review #5

2009-02-28T21:31:00.001-08:00

I thought this film, Amazing Grace, (Directed by Michael Apted and written by Steven Knight) would be too much of a feel-good and overly preachy film-not that I didn't agree with the Hero's plight every whit (I knew it was about a man's fight against slavery before I saw it). I was pleasantly surprised. It was a BEAUTIFUL story without saccharin sentimentality . I was amazed to see how well this movie was edited, too. Bravo to Rick Shaine. The plot was well-put together and followable through flashbacks. The cinematography is beautiful to watch. Jenny Beavan, a veteran costume designer did very well with that aspect of this film. Late 18th-mid-19th century costuming in films are always a fun challenge for a costume designer I am sure. Research and more research besides hard work and historical vision.....and GUYS IN SUITS!! :-) (Wellllll, there are a lot of funny wigs and stuff in the film, but the general idea is that the costumes are well-done. LOL.)

Anyway, the subject of this historical film which is almost a biopic, really, is William Wilberforce. Wilberforce was TRULY ahead of his time in the area of anti-slave trade. He was extraordinary also in his loyalty to the crown, however,-not expected of a man of such revolutionary ideas. As a powerful M.P. he was above reproach in his loyalty to his country . He was also known for many other social reformations and political fights, but the anti-slavery fight is his legacy. I want to find out more about this man. ( I think a trip to the library is in order.)He is a fascinating character. Ioan Griffudd is Fabulous as Wilberforce. From the younger more energetic William to the ailing and despondent William, Griffudd is well keyed in to his character. The part of the story dealing with his meeting and falling in love with his wife is a wonderful story by itself. His wife-Barbara Spooner- is a brilliant and wonderful friend and a rock to him-and she is played well by Romola Garai. She shares his beliefs and is a trooper along with him in his fight for this monumental cause of humanity and morality. Albert Finney is in the film as the character John Newton who is the author of the song that the film is titled for. Finney is always great to watch. His charactrer in this film, as a repentant former slave trader, finally musters up the courage to face his demons and and find redemption from God (and hope to forgive himself) by helping Wilberforce (he gives his written testimony about his culpability in being a part of the heinous slave trade, and writes the Song "Amazing Grace" -by the way, Finney's character John must use a scribe to dictate this important testimony because he sadly becomes blind ). I really like this film. It is based on an AMAZING true story. Wilberforce is an amazing man-a man that answered the call of people who needed him. He could have chosen a quieter and more serene life as a cleric, but among so many important moments (the movie is full of great quotes as well)in the movie the character Hannah More tells him that he can serve both God and his fellow man by taking on this political fight-and he does. Worth a watch for sure. 3 out of 4 stars. Rated PG.

Oscar Review-"I'd Like to Thank The A-Kaz-emy"

2009-02-23T16:56:00.000-08:00

I truly had a FANTASTIC time at Kaz's Oscar Party. I even won Snoopy Socks! (I tied with one other person for guessing the most results correctly on the Oscar Ballot-guessing how the Academy would Vote). It was so fun. Can't wait for next Year ( if I can be so presumptuous to guess that Kaz will let Me come next Year-I drank half of the Dr. Pepper).

Anyway, I will discuss first the predictions that I fell flat on. There were two major surprises for me last night. Penelope Cruz winning the Best Supporting Actress was NOT expected. She has been nominated for a Leading Actress Oscar, and Has won BAFTAs and Cannes Film Festival Leading Actress Award. She is a rich and wonderful actress who can do comedy and drama equally well. The only problem is that the role she won for was not worthy of her. I have not seen the movie and never will. The next surprise was a shocker, but now that the Oscars are over and everything has settled in, It seems that Sean Penn winning for Best Leading Actor Oscar was just the way the Academy was expected to go. Mickey Rourke was talked up a lot-and I figured he would take it, but I guess that Sean Penn is having his revenge for lost Oscars in the past. I did not care for Penn's role that he won for at all, but he is a terrific and passionate actor with a lot of talent. Too bad the LDS church had to take some VERY undeserved hits from screenwiter of Penn's film. >:^( I felt bad for Rourke, too. It must have been deflating to lose. He had piled up just about every other lead actor award this Year-and I wonder if He would rather have had just the Oscar than all the others put together.

The favorite part of the night for Me was without a doubt Kate Winslet's acceptance speech. Here is the link to the vid:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAO0pZ2xvWE . I LOVE that moment of connection with her Dad. She is truly a serene, cool, and amazingly talented actress which is why I LOVED that She was SO happy-and for a moment uncharacteristically not 100% composed. I loved THAT. The Best Actress Race this year was incredible. I wanted all of those women to walk away with it. (I mean, it would have been too cool for Brad and Angie walk away together with their Oscars, RIGHT???- But the Oscars are not theirs.) lol. And ummmmmmmmmmmm Meryl Streep? Wow. How amazing she looked at the Oscars! :-) She is beyond cool. The only blight in the Best Actress Category was CATE BLANCHETT NOT BEING NOMINATED! :-/ Ah, well. Cate will pull a Sean Penn one of these Years (or I should say in many coming Oscars) and win the Best Actress Oscars that She so richly deserves.

The Best Supporting Actor Oscar for Heath was a foregone conclusion.

Slumdog Millionaire for best picture and the Best Direction Oscar for Danny Boyle (with a little help from Loveleen Tandan for their Direction of Slumdog Millionaire) were no surprise.

I just HAVE to mention how much I liked the format of this Year's Oscars-meaning that the nominees being honored personally by former winners in the same category was wonderfully fabulous and personal. Each nominee got a personal mention beyond just the mention among their fellow nominees if they were not awarded the Oscar. It was a FABULOUS idea that I hope is put in place from now on.

Take Care, All. And Keep watching Movies. :-) (Good Movies).

OSCAR EXTRAVAGANZA :-D (History and Predictions!!!!) :-)

2009-02-21T14:30:00.000-08:00

O.k.- So I wanted to do something cool for the big day tomorrow, and I decided to save my review for next week. I am just going to post some fun things that have to do with moments in Oscar history-and some of My predictions for tomorrow's awards!

Soooooo Here We go! :-D

-Here is a link to a vid of a moment that really makes me smile and chuckle-What oscar aficionado doesn't remember this????? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8cTR6fk8frs

LOL. So Cute.

-Here is a cool Pic of My FAVE ACTRESS in the COOLEST Oscar Dress EVER!!!

Yep. Jodie is truly chic in this beaded Armani. She is at the 1995 Oscars in this pic-That Year She was nominated for best Actress in a Leading Role for her role in Nell.

-Biggest Oscar Travesties in History (In My View):

#1: Hugh Grant not being Nominated and winning for About A Boy-(and others)!

#2: Peter O'Toole losing in the Oscar race for Best Leading Actor EIGHT different TIMES!!!!!!!!!! X-'( What the............. I LOVE Peter O'Toole. What are the odds, huh? (I just watched How to Steal a Million last night.):-D

#3: Cate Blanchett not being nominated for Best Leading Actress this year!!!!!!! >:^/

#4: Richard Farnsworth not getting the Best Leading Actor Oscar for his role in The Strait Story (1999 Film Directed by David Lynch).

-Classiest Oscar Acceptace in My view is Ingrid Bergman accepting her Oscar for her supporting role in Murder on the Orient Express! Here is a link to the vid from YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ky5sW4no_cg -Watch it. She is total class!

-I love Biopics. Many times, Oscars have been awarded to Movies that are boigraphical. Two of My winning faves are: Amadeus and The Last Emperor, but The Aviator is great, too. I am not a fan of Howard Hughes, but I enjoyed watching this superbly acted film. An advantage to Biopics in the Oscars I think is the frame of reference that is had about the subject by viewers, and that there are clear and unmistakeable ways to "nail" a character(look, accent to name two). Some would argue that it doesn't require an artist to "create" a character as much, but I think there is real talent to it nonetheless. Here is a YouTube vid of Cate Blanchett meeting the press talking about pretty much that same subject. Watch it. It is COOL! The Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wg5UQz8PjSE -Such class and eloquence. Wow. This is a bit lengthy, but worth it. (She meets the Press right after her Oscar win for her role in The Aviator).

-Here is a vid that fascinates me. It is Tilda Swinton addressing the SanFransisco International Film Festival. I am in awe of her brilliance and eloquence. She discusses the role of film in modern society and its effect on our collective (and individual) subconscious and welllll........Just watch it! (Here is the link): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qH1_xb1-Xc -This is SO worth seeing!

***Well, My picks for five of the the major awards tomorrow are these(picks meaning how I think the Academy will vote):

Best Film-Slumdog Millionaire-it simply has the momentum.

Best Actress-Kate Winslet or Anne Hathaway. Probably Kate.

Best Actor-Mickey Rourke is the sentimental fave, and I think he will take it.

Best Supporting Actress-This is a hard one. I think that Amy Adams or Viola Davis have great chances, but Marisa Tomei may just blindside them.

Best Supporting Actor-Heath, of Course. I think it is foregone.

Last vid: Best Actresses/Actors in Oscar History. Love this! (Although there is an annoying sound throughout the vid, so turn down the sound if it bugs. The pics are cool.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rADTUkZ-imU

Well, I really hope that my blogger buddies will check out the vids! This has been fun. Monday I will post an Oscar Result and Review blog Entry-So Keep Tuned in! ;-)

LOVE MY DAD-Just had to post these pics! :-D

2009-02-18T01:40:00.000-08:00

THE BEST DAD!!!!!! :-) (The most stylin one, too! His fedoras (30+) and ties and Italian suits Prove it)!

This picture is iconic in our family. This is the pic of Dad with Mom that screams "You look at her the wrong way, and I'll can You!" LOL. (Or as far as I am concerned, "My Dad can beat up Your Dad!") ;-)

DAD-(the dapper dude on the right) Man with a Mission, Man ON a mission! A WAY COOL Missionary Photo.

Me as a wee thing excersising Lung power. Me, Mum, and Dad at My Mother's Paternal Grandma's place. :-)

LOVE this Look, it is the MOCK-INDIGNANCY look. :-) Dad's stache and HAT are the BEST, too!

HERE IS SMILEY DAD! :-D LOVE THIS PIC!!!!!!!!

And this is a FAVE......Here am I on My Baptism Day!!!!!!!!!!! :-) Ugh. LOL. THE HAIR.......But easily one of my fave pictures EVER.

Evita(1996)-Review #4

2009-02-14T04:49:00.000-08:00

I am excited to review Evita. This film, directed by Alan Parker (Parker also adapted it to screen) took Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's musical about the legendary First Lady of Argentina to another level. First, the casting was brilliant. Madonna couldn't have done better. Her skills of voice and dance were put to full use of their powers, and all this done while She was expecting her first child. She really looked the part as well, thanks to the amazing make-up crew. The make-up was fantastic! And as far as the costume design goes, Penny Rose outdid herself. Madonna did more costume changes than any other actress in film history, and all of the costumes were based on outfits worn by Eva Peron herself (check out the cool imdb site page http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0116250/trivia for more interesting trivia). Madonna was convincing in all of the stages of Eva's growth that she played. Yes. Not just singing or dancing was nailed, but the actual acting was magnificent. And then there is Antonio. *sigh* Antonio Banderas was a dream as Che. Antonio didn't go all out with the beard and beret-thing that Che Guevara is iconic for, but his voice is wonderful-(it is kind of the same phenomenon that happened with Nicole Kidman in Moulin Rouge-a voice is discovered)! He is SO fun to watch and listen to in this film. His energy and irony-an irony and sarcasm played with seeming ease shows that Banderas is the well-rounded kind of actor that is rare indeed. He conveyed the torn feelings of the love-hate relationship Che supposedly had with Evita to the tee. The entire cast fit their roles well. Jonathan Pryce was excellent as the leary Juan Peron, and from him down to the lowliest extra was given great supporting performances.

As far as the Cinematography goes, this film is visually stunning-in fact one of the most beautiful films that I have watched. Also, when I saw this in theatre, I was overwhelmed with the detail that was paid attention to. The set design crew pulled no punches. This was a major contributor to the beauty of the film.

The film has such a sense of history and loftiness and destiny that one almost forgets about the seamier sides of Eva Peron's storied life-for a minute at least. Yeah. She looks good. Never mind the cut corners, This is about Eva's blaze of glory that still has Argentina firmly in its grip-She is the Machiavellian Madre extrordinaire. From opportunistic young model/actress to vice-presidential hopeful of her beloved Argentina, Eva knows how to get what she wants without ever letting her goals slip from her sight or ever relaxing her grip on them. It is ironic then, that the only thing that puts a damper on everything is her "own weak body".

Yep. You have to hand it to Parker for saving a project and subject that could have been manhandled by Oliver Stone, (Stone was first to show an interest in directing an Evita Peron biopic) but Stone gets a token mention in the credits without really having done anything with the film. Parker did a fabulous job. I give this film 4 out of 4 stars! Rated PG.

My Foray into Painting

2009-02-09T22:50:00.000-08:00

I just thought I would get brave and post this picture that I painted..............Any guesses as to who it is????????????? (This is for the people who don't already know-SO NO SPOILING!)

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button-Review #3

2009-02-07T14:18:00.000-08:00

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a film that I feel a lot of reviews that I read have missed important points about-or at least have not emphasized those points enough. I will discuss plot very briefly-Benjamin(played by Brad Pitt who is nominated for an Oscar for his role as the title character) is "born under unusual circumstances". He is a man whose body is born with a surreal twist-he is born "aging" biologically in reverse. His mother is lost in childbirth, and his Father is unable to process or deal with the sight of the shriveled and hideous-looking baby with all the physical impediments of not an infant, but usual for a man in his mid to late eighties. Moments after Benjamin is born, his father grabs him and bolts in a frenzy, finally leaving his son on a front step of a nursing home. It is lucky for Benjamin that he is found moments after being left there by Queenie(a shy black woman who more or less runs the nursing home and desires a child). She is taken aback at first, of course, but takes Benjamin in as her own; and despite the appearance and freakish condition of the child loves him and views him as one of God's children and names him. As Benjamin grows and matures psychologically and mentally, he meets Daisy-his love (they are about seven when they both meet). Benjamin and Daisy have frequent separations but are drawn back together through insurmountable odds because they are simply the most important person to each other. As the signs of "age" melt from Benjamin's body, his adventures pile up (from being a tugboat hand to world traveler) and due to his innocence and backwardness serves as basically a foil to Daisy's public and accomplished character. He is solitary and his adventures-however fabulous are out of the spotlight. She dances in a ballet troupe. He is given the opportunity to observe from afar her professional successes-and admire them-but is no less drawn to the most mundane details about her. When she suffers catastrophe, he is constant. As his situation takes its toll, she is there to look after him. All of the story is told in flashback to Daisy and Benjamin's daughter by Daisy and through Benjamin's diary. I will just say that the other characters Benjamin meets in the story are varied and serve many a purpose in many wonderful ways; and I could go into the film's metaphors for hours and hours (no surprise here since the film's screen play is adapted from an F. Scott Fitzgerald novella. Fitzgerald is a serial metaphor user!)

As far as the visual art aspect of the film goes, The Cinematography is as well-done about the film as anything else. The Cinematographer, Claudio Miranda has worked his way up from being a gaffer in other films to Cinematographer-AND HOW. He has created a Cinematic masterpiece(check out camera and aspect details at: http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0421715/technical -it is completely digitally filmed). The scenes of the South can almost be smelled-the picture is so mellow and entrancing. Scenes of Brad as Benjamin motor-biking against the southern backdrop or Cate as Diasy in her pre-accident (woops-spoiler)bohemian dance world are emblazoned in my mind. Along with Miranda's cinematography, the make-up and special effects deserve a mention. Cate's make-up was particularly well-done.

Finally, the important points that I hinted at in the beginning of this review-the ones I felt neglected by other reviews-are varied. I will mention three:

1. I was struck by the quite subtle way the film dealt with the idea of relationships and Love (among other things)being infinite (the fabulous metaphor of a hummingbird and its flight-ability to fly backward and forward and the figure eight flight pattern as a symbol of infinity kick in here). Also-Benjamin, as he comforts the wonderfully colorful Charater "Captain Mike" moments after Mike is wounded in battle (Benjamin has a brief but dramatic stint in WWII) tells Mike that he will have a "good spot in Heaven". But since the "time" element of the story is so pervasie on the surface level, I think these things were ignored. Too bad. They, to me, were the meaning of the film.

2. WHAT THE........CATE NOT NOMINATED??????

TRAVESTY!!!!!!! >:-/

3. Tilda was also AWESOME. Her aspect to the story is such a hopeful and heroic aspect. It is NEVER too late.

I really enjoyed this film. It has thirteen Oscar nominations-Best Picture, Brad for Best Actor, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography........................Yeah. Go see it. The only thumbs down point that I really couldn't ignore was the wierdness of the situation with Daisy and Benjamin when they first meet etc.-the age issue and everything. Even though Benjamin was psychologically and mentally her age........it was just kind of something that was impossible to suspend disbelief about! Creepy-but creepiness was not aimed for. I give this film 3.5 out of 4 stars.

Thanks again to Kaz and also to LuAnn for a fun movie night!!!!! :-)

Thou Shalt NOT bear false Witness!!!!!! -(Or jump to Conclusions, either).

2009-02-01T14:22:00.000-08:00

I owe my Kitty, Horace a public apology. Poor Boy. Until recently, I had basically branded him with an A! Here is the story. Our Dear neighbor and Friend Bonnie Atkinson has a lovely cat -Desdemona-who became "with kitten" and recently gave birth to three dear little furry wonders. I assumed that since Horace was the only known male cat around the neighborhood to me that his "fixing" was botched, and I would pay kitten support. Then the sweet children of Desdemona grew to a month or so...and two of them developed ORIENTAL masks! Yeah. Neither Horace nor Desdemona are of any type of oriental breed. SO SORRY, HORACE. I should never have doubted your impeccable character; and CERTAINLY I should never have judged you publically and jumped to such silly conclusions. >^..^<

The Chronichles of Narnia:Prince Caspian-Review #2 CINEMA SATURDAY

2009-01-31T03:07:00.000-08:00

*Caution: A bit of a spoiler alert is warranted here!

The Chronicles of Narnia:Prince Caspian is a film that I am glad I saw despite the handicap that I feel all films based on books like the Narnia volumes (which I am sad to say I am not really familiar with as I would like to be) labor under-What I have imagined in my mind while reading the books feels intruded on by someone else's vision. It is always two fold, though. Especially since I have gotten older, I have become a bit more curious as to what someone else will come up with. The film's beginning scenes introduce us to the new character, Prince Caspian. We learn Caspian's life is in danger and he is forced by a friend and mentor, Doctor Cornelius to leave the castle of Lord Miraz because a son and heir has just been born to Miraz and his wife. This is a difficult situation for Caspian because Lord Miraz is Caspian's uncle, and a Power hungry one. Caspian has lived with Miraz and has been carefully used as a pawnish figure. Miraz's new little son is motivaton to dispense of his nephew and establish his line of power. Caspian escaspes and meets with Narnians-a race derided and thought to be extinct. He is alarmed, sounds a horn given him by Doctor Cornelius and.........Enter the Pevensie children. The four Rulers re-enter their kingdom to find it wasted by the power-monger Miraz and his race of telmarines-who for 1300 years have been opressing Narnia . Remember,Narnians are thought to be extinct. Cair Paravel and all of the familiar landmarks in the world of Narnia and its outskirts are as I said-wasted. Battles ensue, intrigues arise, but the most fascinating thing to me about the movie besides the Christian symbolism is the growth of the four children: Peter, Edmund, Susan and Lucy have passed through only a year out of Narnia, but growth has taken place particularly with Edmund. I love it that Edmund is the one who personally shatters the chance for the white Witch to come back into power. Among his siblings, he alone knows in a MUCH fuller way the seduction of her power through his unique experience with her. He has overcome much. Lucy is a symbol of child-like faith, sweetness and innocence. She seeks Aslan with true and earnest belief-although it shakes a bit in this installment. Peter and Lucy have matured. They are protectors as ever. Without going too much into detail, another thing I enjoyed was the costume and make-up and computer animation . The animated animals were quite fun. Reepicheep the mouse along with giants, minotaurs, dwarves, and centaurs are fun to watch. And My fave-Aslan-is voiced by the wonderful Liam Neeson. :-) I love that character. Reviewing this movie is kind of difficult because to do it the way I want to and as intelligently as I want to, I feel that I should have read all of the books (which I have not done) and clarify and compare. But this is a movie, and the movie is a fun ride. I give the film 2.5 out of 4 stars.

O.K. I finished this at 2:58 a.m. There will be editing.

Visit From an Apostle

2009-01-25T19:10:00.000-08:00

Today I got to shake hands with an Apostle. Robert D. Hales spoke at our Stake Conference (for the Hobble Creek West stake). What a gentle, approachable and fabulous man. It has definitely been a blessing to hear from him. Sometimes I get stuck in the rut of being enclosed-enclosed in a kind of box that does not allow me to give myself the right and/or ability to move forward-to forgive myself. To cut myself slack. When I was in Elder Hales's presence (after the conference concluded I had the chance to meet him in the lobby), that melted away for a moment. While speaking, his counsel was not perfunctory or scripted. It was just wisdom. Just hope. I have NO DOUBT that the moments of doubt and fear that come to each of us are intended to make us grow, be stronger, and be more aware of GOD. I am greatful for the opportunity to have those times. They are neccesary. But today it was just nice to bask in the glow of gentleness and kindness of an Apostle-AN APOSTLE who brought love and caring, counsel and wisdom to US(and in a way, I feel to ME in particualr). I am grateful to Elder Hales. :-)

Father in Israel-Review #1 CINEMA SATURDAY MOVIE REVIEW!

2009-01-24T00:52:00.000-08:00

Well, here it is-the debut of CINEMA SATURDAY Movie Review here on Ms. Holm's soapbox. I would like to begin by saying that I have been a snob about LDS film. I have never been drawn to it for many reasons-and I am LDS; So I am excited and glad that my very first to review is an LDS themed film that surprised me pleasantly to say the least. Father in Israel-the opening night film at this year's LDS film festival was the kind of film that the LDS film culture should be proud to claim. Totally devoid of the over-used cliches that plague LDS film, it put into view the rich humanity and beautiful peculiarity of the LDS faith as lived by Aaron Young, a character that at once demands the audience's sympathy. Life for the middle-aged Aaron is changing at a fast pace-and will not be letting up. He is called as the father-figure and spiritual shepherd of his church congregation-as an LDS bishop. The beginning of this film has a scene in which he is confiding to his own father that he wishes that he could have a life situation that made him feel like he did while serving his mission for the church-spiritually fed and filled instead of depleted by a job that grates on his mind and soul. Clearly, he did NOT have the appointment as bishop in mind to do that; and this appointment serves to bring him to his knees as he also faces rapid-fire changes in his family life. His wife is unwaveringly devoted and helpful to him as he fulfills his responsibilities. A twenty-three year-old daughter and an eight year-old son are just two of the six children of his-all of whom on one level or another are facing some kind of rite of passage. He must be the parent they need and the Bishop that his congregation needs. Christian Vuissa (also producer of such films as The Errand of Angels, And the founder of the LDS Film Festival) is the Producer, Director, and Screenplay writer. He has done a sublime job. The subplots are engaging and believable. Characters such as a struggling wayward daughter and an extremely likeable non-LDS co-worker of Aaron's (who is part of an extremely funny situation arising from an agreement.......just watch the movie) are rich and believable. The acting is well-done. Timothy Threlfall in the leading role created a wonderful character that is(as I have said) thoroughlly sympathetic. He faces the sacrifices that he feels he must make for his family and others without an existential meltdown or even too much self-pity. His interest is where his family lies. He is a Father in Israel. I give this film 3 stars out of 4. Rated PG

I could not see this film without thinking about my own father. Love You, Dad. :-)

Father in Israel official web site http://www.fatherinisrael.com/

Thanks to Karen "Kazzy" Burton for making the viewing of Father in Israel possible! :-D Thanks, Karen.

Barack Obama and echoes of history????????

2009-01-19T13:47:00.000-08:00

First of all, I am thrilled to start a blog. I LOVE writing, and seeing that I am full steam ahead on a novel (which will probably make its debut elsewhere), I am excited to engage in this fun venue for expressing all things that I desire-mostly non-fiction.

Obama will be inaugurated tomorrow. Many people have expressed their feelings that Obama is going to inspire our nation in ways unthought of. He has been supported by members of the Kennedy family; and it is even said that he inspires them the same way that President Kennedy does. I need to say my peace (as I have before) about this.

I proudly admit it, I can be accused of severe subjectivity on this subject. Anyone who knows me knows that John F. Kennedy is my Eternal Personal Hero. I have been to the J.F.K library, collected many J.F.K books, etc. .... the list goes on. I am puzzled to say the least that Obama's less-than-a day away presidency is percieved by some as an "echo" of history. Obama is of his own time and era.
Here are some interesting differences that I put together between the sevice of Kennedy and Obama :

1. When Kennedy took office, he had served in congress(both House and Senate) for fourteen years. He was seasoned in politics. Obama has served in the U.S. Senate a total of about two years.

2. Kennedy is a war hero. Obama does NOT have that kind of experience.

3. Kennedy served to help the cause of Civil rights (during a period of severe growing pains for the movement) on principle. He believed that it was the just, correct, and only thing to do and fought for civil rights advances on principle despite the lack of support from congress and many powerful social and political groups. Kennedy was the first president to address the equal pay issue for women. He even once mentioned that he thought that a woman could make a great persident, and expected that one day a woman would be. Obama has reaped the benefits of this. He will never face the opposition that Kennedy had to.

4. Kennedy faced the Catholic issue head-on. The way he did it is legend. Obama has faced little or no problems with the religeon issue (maybe excepting the crackpots who believe he is Muslim).

5. Kennedy was immersed immediately in global stresses-a cold war without the co-operation of the CIA. Obama will be immersed also-but he has a kind of solidarity behind him in this dangerous era that Kennedy didn't have. Obama won't be responsible if there are conflicts about the wars and Gitmo, etc.-He is ready to dismantle Bush policies forthwith. Too much is known for him to be left holding the bag. Obama has reaped the benefits of the peace Kennedy preserved. For our sakes, I hope that he uses wisdom and help from Our GOD. Kennedy did.

Kennedy has faced the deluge of revisionist historians. Camelot is the Golden Age through which a"hard and bitter peace" was wrought with sweat, and COURAGE. It is an era of service. The era that Obama "ushers" in is one markedly lacking in the innocence and the unperfunctory brand of service that Kennedy inspired.

I like Obama. I wish him well. I am excited for him. I hope that he does well for our sakes. But he DOES NOT hold a place for me. He never will, no matter how he might turn out to impress me....... he is NOT my hero.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xE0iPY7XGBo Here is You Tube video of JFK's inagural address-(part one).