As my post title suggests, while checking out the usual websites, I happened upon another preview from Sunday night's final Goren/ Eames episode of Season 8.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Vincent D'Onofrio Talks About "Little New York"
I saw this in a Google Alert on my lunch hour today and wanted to post it then, but work has been an "absolute zoo" this week. As my daddy was wont to say, "I have been busier than a one-armed paper hanger." I could not even watch it that closely because people kept coming into my office...again...which was supposed to be my lunch hour, which turned into more like a lunch quarter-hour.
Anyway, this is a fantastic interview with Vincent D'Onofrio talking about how he crafted the character and his take on how we live in a "desperate" society these days. He is not entirely wrong on that point. I thought he sounded great and looked even better...the hair, the beard, the "talking" with his hands, and the little tuft of chest hair peeking out the top of his open shirt. "Ooh, la, la!"
I am on the bubble as to whether I want to see this movie or not, however, because after "The Godfather" parts I and II...I was pretty much "done" with "gangstah" movies. I don't particularly care for the blood and the gore and the violence and the use of the "F" word every other breath. Don't get me wrong, much to my dear departed mother's chagrin, that word has been a part of my vocabulary since my "salad days." I try, however, to make use of it sparingly...for emphasis...to drive home a point...for when the situation is so completely "frustrating" that no other possible word can satisfactorily express my displeasure...then I let it rip. I just don't care to be "pelted" with the word every five seconds from a movie screen or my own television, but that's just me.
And while I may not be inclined to watch the movie, I certainly have no such reservation to listening to Vincent "talk" about it. I could listen to that voice all day and into the night...and then some.
Anyway, this is a fantastic interview with Vincent D'Onofrio talking about how he crafted the character and his take on how we live in a "desperate" society these days. He is not entirely wrong on that point. I thought he sounded great and looked even better...the hair, the beard, the "talking" with his hands, and the little tuft of chest hair peeking out the top of his open shirt. "Ooh, la, la!"
I am on the bubble as to whether I want to see this movie or not, however, because after "The Godfather" parts I and II...I was pretty much "done" with "gangstah" movies. I don't particularly care for the blood and the gore and the violence and the use of the "F" word every other breath. Don't get me wrong, much to my dear departed mother's chagrin, that word has been a part of my vocabulary since my "salad days." I try, however, to make use of it sparingly...for emphasis...to drive home a point...for when the situation is so completely "frustrating" that no other possible word can satisfactorily express my displeasure...then I let it rip. I just don't care to be "pelted" with the word every five seconds from a movie screen or my own television, but that's just me.
And while I may not be inclined to watch the movie, I certainly have no such reservation to listening to Vincent "talk" about it. I could listen to that voice all day and into the night...and then some.
Monday, July 27, 2009
LOCI Season Finale - "Revolution"
This post shall be of the "short & sweet" variety. I had a sudden "urge" to check Vincent D'Onofrio's imdb page a few minutes ago and found a wee surprise. According to the listings, VDO is credited with an appearance in "Revolution," which is the LOCI season finale in a couple of weeks, featuring the Nichols/Wheeler team. Of course, we all know that Eames is subbing for Wheeler, so this could be potentially interesting/intriguing...or it could be a big fat nothing.
Someone else may have mentioned this already on another blog, but this is the first I have seen/heard of it. I planned on watching it anyway, but now I have even more incentive.
And, for the occasion, USA is throwing the LOCI faithful a bone that day by serving up a marathon of eight episodes from Season 8. Blessedly, "All In" is not among them.
Someone else may have mentioned this already on another blog, but this is the first I have seen/heard of it. I planned on watching it anyway, but now I have even more incentive.
And, for the occasion, USA is throwing the LOCI faithful a bone that day by serving up a marathon of eight episodes from Season 8. Blessedly, "All In" is not among them.
"Alpha Dog" Preview And Promo
Well, the final Goren and Eames episode is due up this Sunday. And, despite my overall frustration and disappointment with some of the pathetic offerings the writers served up this season with the likes of "All In" and "Faithfully," I am hoping that this is not indeed "the" final chapter for our intrepid detectives. Is USA ever gonna get off the pot and let the fans know the fate of their show?
Obviously, this is another one of those episodes they taped earlier and are showing out of order...the evidence being Bobby's longer hair and scruffy face and Eames' shorter hair. Nothing gets by me, folks. Anyway, so I'm thinking we won't be getting any kind of "cliff hanger" or "gripping" development with Bobby this time around. Well, at least the "powers that be" at USA had the decency to not end the Goren/Eames season with "All In." Just think of the bitter taste that would have left in our mouths until the next season rolled around.
On another note, Eames, while quite engaging in last night's episode with Nichols, really didn't have all that much to do. Nichols evidently didn't get the memo that Eames likes to drive either. I thought it was a good episode, but it was clearly the Zack Nichols/Jeff Goldblum show, and Eames didn't complain about carrying the genius' water. Not...a...once.
Preview
Scene from Law & Order: Criminal Intent “Alpha Dog” ...
Uploaded by USANetwork. - Full seasons and entire episodes online.
Promo
Obviously, this is another one of those episodes they taped earlier and are showing out of order...the evidence being Bobby's longer hair and scruffy face and Eames' shorter hair. Nothing gets by me, folks. Anyway, so I'm thinking we won't be getting any kind of "cliff hanger" or "gripping" development with Bobby this time around. Well, at least the "powers that be" at USA had the decency to not end the Goren/Eames season with "All In." Just think of the bitter taste that would have left in our mouths until the next season rolled around.
On another note, Eames, while quite engaging in last night's episode with Nichols, really didn't have all that much to do. Nichols evidently didn't get the memo that Eames likes to drive either. I thought it was a good episode, but it was clearly the Zack Nichols/Jeff Goldblum show, and Eames didn't complain about carrying the genius' water. Not...a...once.
Preview
Scene from Law & Order: Criminal Intent “Alpha Dog” ...
Uploaded by USANetwork. - Full seasons and entire episodes online.
Promo
Thursday, July 23, 2009
"Major Case" Clip
Well, after last week's mediocre offering, I cannot say I am "looking forward" to this week's episode. But this is the one where Wheeler goes into labor and Eames fills in for her. Seeing Eames play off Nichols could make for some interesting...even entertaining... television if in the hands of "decent" even competent writers, but the lackluster writing has been more than adequately dissected on other blogs and forums, so I'll just leave it at that...for now.
Just watch as the "clueless" men continue to ramble on and on while Wheeler stands there in a puddle of amniotic fluid, leaving Eames to come to the rescue. Seeing Ross rise gingerly from his chair to take a gander at the watery deluge on his office floor is pretty funny, I have to say. Men...God bless 'em.
My main question from this clip: What is Goren doing in Tennessee; especially without Eames? I didn't think they went to the bathroom without the other one tagging along. Perhaps Bobby is visiting the Nashville Film Festival with his buddy Vincent? My secondary question: I wonder how Bobby would have reacted had he been in Ross's office when this happened. No problem, right? Bobby always ...in theory...knows what to do.
Just watch as the "clueless" men continue to ramble on and on while Wheeler stands there in a puddle of amniotic fluid, leaving Eames to come to the rescue. Seeing Ross rise gingerly from his chair to take a gander at the watery deluge on his office floor is pretty funny, I have to say. Men...God bless 'em.
My main question from this clip: What is Goren doing in Tennessee; especially without Eames? I didn't think they went to the bathroom without the other one tagging along. Perhaps Bobby is visiting the Nashville Film Festival with his buddy Vincent? My secondary question: I wonder how Bobby would have reacted had he been in Ross's office when this happened. No problem, right? Bobby always ...in theory...knows what to do.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
"Lady's Man" Recap
My goodness, has it really been three weeks since this episode aired? I must be losing my touch, but better late than never, I suppose. Enough with the "chitchat" and on to some general observations about the last Goren/Eames installment of Law & Order CI.
Well, right off the bat, I have to say that I liked this episode…a lot. I would not give it an “excellent” rating, because I reserve that for only very special stories, but it’s up there pretty high on my list. It was just so very wonderful to see playful, sardonic, aggravating, taunting, exasperating, and…most importantly…“laughing” Bobby back in action. He’s healing, and I’m glad.
Okay, my first observation and complaint is…if we can get a "nekked" butt shot of the guy diving into the ocean, why can’t we get something “similar” of Bobby in the shower? That’s all I’m sayin’.
And now it's time for a confession. I have never been fond of those knit hats they wear, and – yes – I know it’s cold, and they need to keep their heads warm. So, I have to say a grateful "thank you," to Vincent D'Onofrio for braving the elements and not donning a “penis” hat in this episode. Sorry, but that’s what they look like to me, and it's not just Bobby and Eames. No one looks attractive in those things. Bobby does look all cuddly-wuddly in that big ol’ coat he’s wearing though. Good choice on that score from the wardrobe department.
Teacher Bobby is back. At the "crime scene" by the river, he said the jellyfish sting was a nematocyst and then when Rodgers pointed out the…uh…makeshift “surgery” that had been inflicted upon the victim, Bobby goes on to explain how in Ancient Rome, they would do a total removal of the genitals of young slave boys to make them charismatics. Remember back in Season 1 when Eames said she learns something new from Bobby everyday. Well, the beat goes on.
And look at Rodgers, getting in on the “fun” with her, “I love saving the best for last,” comment.
My first question: Why was this pipsqueak attorney even at the crime scene? If the victim was some sort of high profile local “celebrity,” albeit of the lowest, skankiest caliber, then why send this dude? Yes, I get that he was the prosecutor on the original case, but he botched it and got reassigned to purgatory for his efforts. They make it clear that he is less than a nobody in the DA’s office, so he was an easy suspect from the get-go. Plus I didn’t much care for the arrogant way he treated Eames and Bobby...throughout the entire episode.
Poor Bobby, having to explain to this "twit" that the jellyfish sting could not have been inflicted after he was shot because the immune system would have shut down and no reaction would have occurred. How does he "suffer" these insufferable fools? Oh, and I read in a couple of places after the show aired that it is not all that uncommon to find jellyfish in the East River, so the writers goofed...again.
And there is Bobby's badge number…clear for once…4376.
The ever clever and astute Bobby picks up on the “tension” between Eames and Mulrooney. He looks back and forth between the two and tucks the thought away for later discussion with Eames.
I thought the scene with the widow and her husband’s friend was reminiscent of the “piss me off” scene from “Ill-Bred” back in Season 3. Bobby is obviously irritated by the guy, so he asks the wife, "Does he have to be here?" Then, before she can answer, he says the same thing to Eames, who then repeats the question to the guy. Cute.
Okay, here’s another question. If Boz’s buddy, Craig, showed up at the beach after everything had happened, how did Mulrooney manage to dispose of the victim’s car and the dune buggy? Plus, what about the car Mulrooney drove to Atlantic Beach to begin with? If he used that to transport the body back to the dump site, should they not be able to find some sort of DNA in his car? I mean, they're always finding a hair or a drop of blood or some minuscule piece of evidence to nail the perp. Yet, nary a word was mentioned as to the disposition of the vehicles used to get back and forth to the beach let alone obtaining a warrant to search said cars...even if somebody was looking for them...which evidently they weren't.
Sometimes...I think I think too much.
I loved their rhetoric at the beach when they’re discussing what might have happened to Boz’s hacked off…ahem…appendage. Speculations ranged from the killer might have taken it to it being washed away with the tide to …my personal favorite…"seagulls are always hungry." Ewww! Leave it to Bobby!
There are a lot of good scenes in this episode. So many, in fact, I am having trouble deciding which one is my favorite. For example, when they’re in Ross’ office, watching Boz’s taped report, and he says he’ll "...have more next week," Bobby says, “Nah, I don’t think so.” And I do declare, but just hearing Bobby utter the phrase, “all nighter” makes me go all weak in the knees.
This scene leads into Ross asking Goren to give him and Eames the room for a moment, so that we can see the “obligatory,” “we really should remove you from this case because you’re too close to it,” scene. But just like in “Endgame” and “Amends” the writers wave their magic wand and Eames and Goren get to keep the case. After all, Eames is the "best" he’s got. And that is all I’m going to say about that.
I’m confused…which is not all that unusual when I’m knee deep into a LOCI episode, but are we to understand that the creepy DA guy broke into Eames’ house twice...once to get the red silk blouse (or did he swipe that from the dry cleaner's store) and again when they show "her" rifling through Eames’ underwear drawer and picking up her wedding picture? A ballsy move for the little twerp, don't you think? And for what purpose? He/she had already planted Eames' red silk blouse in the hotel room. Why risk breaking into Eames' home...which leads me to another observation. Eames must have one lousy security system if this birdbrain and Jo, she of the "Blind Spot" episode in Season 6, had the wherewithal to break-in undetected.
I’m leaning toward the scene with “Faith Yancy” – and we all know who she’s modeled after – as being my “pick” of the show. I love it when he plops down in her chair, just seconds before air time…and is in absolutely no hurry to leave. Just look at him “ape” for the camera. As usual, he gets what he wants; when Faith says, “I’m not going to dignify that with a response,” Bobby shrewdly counters with, “You just did.” And with that, he relinquishes her chair and has to duck in front of the camera to avoid being caught on air. Yeah, I like this scene a lot. Eames seemed to enjoy it, too.
Okay, what’s up with shooting the scene through the interview room window? It makes for cloudy and crappy quality screen capping photos. It’s the scene when Bobby interrupts Eames when she's talking to Mulrooney and ultimately asks her if she slept with him. She is temporarily spared from answering him, however, by Ross’ timely interruption.
I love the scene when they’re talking to Craig in the interrogation room and Bobby is standing behind him. He, of course, wants to keep the liaison with the redhead a secret from his wife and, when he asks if they can keep this "quiet," and turns around to look at Bobby behind him, the small, "knowing" smile on Bobby’s face changes to one of benign indifference in the blink of an eye.
I am finding that this episode has several noteworthy scenes. For example, when the swizzle stick they find in the hotel room leads them to a bar that Eames used to frequent with the smarmy Mulrooney. Eames gets the "convenient" phone call, which then allows Bobby to question the bartender at will. Afterward, as they are walking toward the door, Eames asks, "You find out everything you wanted to know…about me?" Bobby responds with a self-satisfied, "Everything." And as they're going through the door, he ends with, "Bourbon, huh? Bourbon?”
Then there is the scene when Bobby is reviewing the deposition tape from the ten-year-old trial and Eames gets all pissy with him when he says the tape mentions this letter she never told him about. She gets defensive and tells him that maybe Ross should reassign the case and starts to leave the room to search out the captain. But she stops when Bobby says, "I'm asking questions. You know, that's what we do. Right? We ask questions." Then she goes on to tell him about the letter the victim left pointing the finger of blame at her husband in the event something happened to her. Eames found the letter, but the handwriting analysis proved it was not the victim's handwriting, so the defense attorney "suggested" that Eames planted it.
Time for me to interject another question: Now, if that has been on Eames' record for ten years and she has been with Major Case for eight-plus years now, how did she make the jump to Major Case so soon after having such a serious blemish attached to her record? Don't get me wrong, I never believed for an instant that she did it, but since Bobby is the one...in effect...who clears her ten years after the fact, I'm just curious as to Major Case's recruiting qualifications, that's all.
Continuing on, it finally hit me about a quarter of the way through this scene that Bobby was actually conducting a "mini" interrogation of Eames, so he could...you know...help his partner. It was a softer, gentler Bobby interrogation-style, but since he has this compulsion to get at the truth...make no mistake...he was treating her like a witness. When he asks her if she still feels guilty, she counters with, "Why are you taking this tone with me? You don't know what I feel." Ah...Bobby said something like that to Ross in "Endgame" just before Ross kicked him off the case...for about thirty seconds.
I chuckled at Bobby when they were in Mulrooney’s office, and he opens a door and is surprised to discover it is a closet, prompting him to say, "Is this a closet? He’s got a closet. We don’t have a closet." Then Bobby proceeds to whittle away at whatever is left of Mulrooney's self-esteem by reminding him that he has "been in all kinds of law…for a while." The final nail in the coffin being Bobby's reminder to Mulrooney that his former paralegal is the heir apparent to Jack McCoy...nice and rare reference to the mothership...and points out that, if he hadn’t left, Mulrooney would probably be the one in line for McCoy's job.
Then there is the scene at Mulrooney’s dad’s house. I started to leave this one out, but the old coot...Harry...acted like such a condescending jerk to Eames, I thought it was worth mentioning. I did like his line to Bobby when he said he didn't trust anyone in a suit…no disrespect...and Bobby counters with, “I’m with ya on that.” Then Harry recognizes Eames' name and says he remembers his son talking about her, but he thought Kevin had made her up. You know...a woman cop...he "hoped" she was up to the challenge. I repeat...jerk.
Next, this clueless old fart starts to describe the "type" of woman his son preferred and throws an offhand “no offense” in Eames' general direction. The implication being that Eames didn't fit the requisite stereotype...lucky Eames. Then he ended with a, "but there's nothing wrong with a woman that can handle a firearm." I love watching Bobby's facial expressions as he reacts to this Neanderthal's comments throughout the entire scene. For example: when Harry says Kevin stopped coming around after his mother passed away…it’s like you can read Bobby's mind…and it's saying...Gee, I can't imagine why. Or perhaps, "no shit" would be a more apt interpretation. And there is another “close to home” moment for Bobby when Harry says the kind of "closeness" Kevin had with his mother was different than that between a father and son.
Which leads us to another great scene...the bar scene with Bobby and Kevin. So, was Bobby pretending to be a wee bit snockered when he sat down on the bar stool next to Mulrooney? I mean...the Elvis impression..."thank you very much," then grunting "oof, oof" when he spies the pretty lady like he did to intimidate the doctor in "Crazy." Then Bobby says, "Look at that. Nice." Then Bobby says she's "intimidating" and Kevin goes on to give an in-depth analysis of what the "lady" is probably like. Now that dialogue was reminiscent of the "ball buster" discussion Bobby had with the guy in the bar from "Baggage" in Season 2. Who said it was evident that the new writers had not watched the earlier seasons?
I guess my next question is: just how stupid is this Kevin? Does he not realize that Bobby and Eames suspect him and that is why they're doggin' him? Perhaps it's that arrogance thing he has going...he thinks he's too smart to get caught by the dumb gumshoe detectives. Case in point...he gets real chummy with Bobby at the bar and opens up and confides in him, but then Bobby has a way of getting people to do that, doesn't he?
A purely rhetorical question, but what did Eames ever see in this guy? I mean, I know she was in mourning and grieving for Joe, but...come on.
Meanwhile...back at the squad room…Bobby returns from his meeting with Mulrooney to tell Eames that he’s..."concerned." (With good reason...the guy is bonkers!) But Eames seemed surprised. Bobby goes on to tell Eames that Mulrooney doesn’t blame Boz for his life’s failings, he blames her for losing the trial. Her snarky, “You’re a hell of a detective,” makes me want to smack her. Yes, he is and he’s trying to save your skinny ass, Eames, so shut up and listen to him. I love it...Bobby thinks Mulrooney's "unstable." Now, there’s an understatement if ever I heard one.
There are just way too many "fun" scenes in this one…like when Bobby goes to Mulrooney's apartment. It was typical Bobby...going through stuff, opening doors, snooping about, pointing out there was "neat" Kevin and "messy" Kevin…almost like he was...you know...two different people. (Bing! By George, I think he's got it!) Then Mulrooney "maneuvers" him to the door and Bobby asks, "Are we leaving?" Funny. And once Bobby's safely in the hallway, Mulrooney makes a lame excuse about forgetting to send a fax and closes the door in Bobby’s face…something I would never, ever do.
Ah…finally...the “gotcha” scene. It was neat how Bobby stands up for Eames by telling Mulrooney that it was too bad for him that Detective Eames didn’t fudge her testimony. And notice how Bobby didn't even clue Eames in on his discoveries until the “big reveal” moment; i.e., that Mulrooney had forged the signature on the letter he planted. And it was a nice touch at the end when Bobby knocks Mulrooney into the table and hands Eames the handcuffs…very classy Bobby gesture. My final question is: did Mulrooney really have a “Sybil-like” alter personality, or was he just faking the whole thing as part of his scheme to throw suspiscion away from himself? I keep going back to the scene when “she” was rifling through Eames' underwear drawer. If he was truly channeling a woman, why would she want Eames’ lacy under things? Wouldn’t she be jealous of Eames?
Poor Bobby, how tiresome it must be for him to always be engaging in a battle of wits with an ill-equipped buffoon. Sorry, I'm still obsessing over the final scene and the comment that Mulrooney makes to Bobby about "if he wants expert psychiatric testimony, he’ll get a shrink." (If the guy only knew.) In true Bobby fashion, he ignores Mulrooney and goes on to say, "Carl Jung believed that "rage" is the female side of our nature...an aggragate of all the females in our lives...makes us strong." So, what is Bobby saying here...that all females are full of rage?
So, the whole point of this demented man's villainy was to make Eames feel the same failure that had haunted him for years? People are crazy.
One final observation...when Mulrooney is all stretched out at the end, up against the cell, and his jacket is open showing his shirt and his little tummy "paunch"…ain’t no way he was the one dressing up in woman’s clothing in that earlier scene.
One final chuckle, Bobby calls Mulrooney "sweetie" when he pulls him off the cell and starts to cuff him...before looking at Eames and deciding it really should be her collar.
Okay, my head really hurts now from all this pondering and speculating and conjecturing, which…make no mistake…I realize means absolutely nothing to anyone but me. And now I have the rest of the day...I started this last night and saved it in Blogger, hence the date and time stamp...to get ready for tonight's episode. Don't know about you, but I'd like to go "All In" with Bobby. Yeah, I thought so.
And now...after my long winded tome...you are rewarded with a lovely slideshow of Bobby and his sidekicks.
"Lady's Man" Slideshow
Well, right off the bat, I have to say that I liked this episode…a lot. I would not give it an “excellent” rating, because I reserve that for only very special stories, but it’s up there pretty high on my list. It was just so very wonderful to see playful, sardonic, aggravating, taunting, exasperating, and…most importantly…“laughing” Bobby back in action. He’s healing, and I’m glad.
Okay, my first observation and complaint is…if we can get a "nekked" butt shot of the guy diving into the ocean, why can’t we get something “similar” of Bobby in the shower? That’s all I’m sayin’.
And now it's time for a confession. I have never been fond of those knit hats they wear, and – yes – I know it’s cold, and they need to keep their heads warm. So, I have to say a grateful "thank you," to Vincent D'Onofrio for braving the elements and not donning a “penis” hat in this episode. Sorry, but that’s what they look like to me, and it's not just Bobby and Eames. No one looks attractive in those things. Bobby does look all cuddly-wuddly in that big ol’ coat he’s wearing though. Good choice on that score from the wardrobe department.
Teacher Bobby is back. At the "crime scene" by the river, he said the jellyfish sting was a nematocyst and then when Rodgers pointed out the…uh…makeshift “surgery” that had been inflicted upon the victim, Bobby goes on to explain how in Ancient Rome, they would do a total removal of the genitals of young slave boys to make them charismatics. Remember back in Season 1 when Eames said she learns something new from Bobby everyday. Well, the beat goes on.
And look at Rodgers, getting in on the “fun” with her, “I love saving the best for last,” comment.
My first question: Why was this pipsqueak attorney even at the crime scene? If the victim was some sort of high profile local “celebrity,” albeit of the lowest, skankiest caliber, then why send this dude? Yes, I get that he was the prosecutor on the original case, but he botched it and got reassigned to purgatory for his efforts. They make it clear that he is less than a nobody in the DA’s office, so he was an easy suspect from the get-go. Plus I didn’t much care for the arrogant way he treated Eames and Bobby...throughout the entire episode.
Poor Bobby, having to explain to this "twit" that the jellyfish sting could not have been inflicted after he was shot because the immune system would have shut down and no reaction would have occurred. How does he "suffer" these insufferable fools? Oh, and I read in a couple of places after the show aired that it is not all that uncommon to find jellyfish in the East River, so the writers goofed...again.
And there is Bobby's badge number…clear for once…4376.
The ever clever and astute Bobby picks up on the “tension” between Eames and Mulrooney. He looks back and forth between the two and tucks the thought away for later discussion with Eames.
I thought the scene with the widow and her husband’s friend was reminiscent of the “piss me off” scene from “Ill-Bred” back in Season 3. Bobby is obviously irritated by the guy, so he asks the wife, "Does he have to be here?" Then, before she can answer, he says the same thing to Eames, who then repeats the question to the guy. Cute.
Okay, here’s another question. If Boz’s buddy, Craig, showed up at the beach after everything had happened, how did Mulrooney manage to dispose of the victim’s car and the dune buggy? Plus, what about the car Mulrooney drove to Atlantic Beach to begin with? If he used that to transport the body back to the dump site, should they not be able to find some sort of DNA in his car? I mean, they're always finding a hair or a drop of blood or some minuscule piece of evidence to nail the perp. Yet, nary a word was mentioned as to the disposition of the vehicles used to get back and forth to the beach let alone obtaining a warrant to search said cars...even if somebody was looking for them...which evidently they weren't.
Sometimes...I think I think too much.
I loved their rhetoric at the beach when they’re discussing what might have happened to Boz’s hacked off…ahem…appendage. Speculations ranged from the killer might have taken it to it being washed away with the tide to …my personal favorite…"seagulls are always hungry." Ewww! Leave it to Bobby!
There are a lot of good scenes in this episode. So many, in fact, I am having trouble deciding which one is my favorite. For example, when they’re in Ross’ office, watching Boz’s taped report, and he says he’ll "...have more next week," Bobby says, “Nah, I don’t think so.” And I do declare, but just hearing Bobby utter the phrase, “all nighter” makes me go all weak in the knees.
This scene leads into Ross asking Goren to give him and Eames the room for a moment, so that we can see the “obligatory,” “we really should remove you from this case because you’re too close to it,” scene. But just like in “Endgame” and “Amends” the writers wave their magic wand and Eames and Goren get to keep the case. After all, Eames is the "best" he’s got. And that is all I’m going to say about that.
I’m confused…which is not all that unusual when I’m knee deep into a LOCI episode, but are we to understand that the creepy DA guy broke into Eames’ house twice...once to get the red silk blouse (or did he swipe that from the dry cleaner's store) and again when they show "her" rifling through Eames’ underwear drawer and picking up her wedding picture? A ballsy move for the little twerp, don't you think? And for what purpose? He/she had already planted Eames' red silk blouse in the hotel room. Why risk breaking into Eames' home...which leads me to another observation. Eames must have one lousy security system if this birdbrain and Jo, she of the "Blind Spot" episode in Season 6, had the wherewithal to break-in undetected.
I’m leaning toward the scene with “Faith Yancy” – and we all know who she’s modeled after – as being my “pick” of the show. I love it when he plops down in her chair, just seconds before air time…and is in absolutely no hurry to leave. Just look at him “ape” for the camera. As usual, he gets what he wants; when Faith says, “I’m not going to dignify that with a response,” Bobby shrewdly counters with, “You just did.” And with that, he relinquishes her chair and has to duck in front of the camera to avoid being caught on air. Yeah, I like this scene a lot. Eames seemed to enjoy it, too.
Okay, what’s up with shooting the scene through the interview room window? It makes for cloudy and crappy quality screen capping photos. It’s the scene when Bobby interrupts Eames when she's talking to Mulrooney and ultimately asks her if she slept with him. She is temporarily spared from answering him, however, by Ross’ timely interruption.
I love the scene when they’re talking to Craig in the interrogation room and Bobby is standing behind him. He, of course, wants to keep the liaison with the redhead a secret from his wife and, when he asks if they can keep this "quiet," and turns around to look at Bobby behind him, the small, "knowing" smile on Bobby’s face changes to one of benign indifference in the blink of an eye.
I am finding that this episode has several noteworthy scenes. For example, when the swizzle stick they find in the hotel room leads them to a bar that Eames used to frequent with the smarmy Mulrooney. Eames gets the "convenient" phone call, which then allows Bobby to question the bartender at will. Afterward, as they are walking toward the door, Eames asks, "You find out everything you wanted to know…about me?" Bobby responds with a self-satisfied, "Everything." And as they're going through the door, he ends with, "Bourbon, huh? Bourbon?”
Then there is the scene when Bobby is reviewing the deposition tape from the ten-year-old trial and Eames gets all pissy with him when he says the tape mentions this letter she never told him about. She gets defensive and tells him that maybe Ross should reassign the case and starts to leave the room to search out the captain. But she stops when Bobby says, "I'm asking questions. You know, that's what we do. Right? We ask questions." Then she goes on to tell him about the letter the victim left pointing the finger of blame at her husband in the event something happened to her. Eames found the letter, but the handwriting analysis proved it was not the victim's handwriting, so the defense attorney "suggested" that Eames planted it.
Time for me to interject another question: Now, if that has been on Eames' record for ten years and she has been with Major Case for eight-plus years now, how did she make the jump to Major Case so soon after having such a serious blemish attached to her record? Don't get me wrong, I never believed for an instant that she did it, but since Bobby is the one...in effect...who clears her ten years after the fact, I'm just curious as to Major Case's recruiting qualifications, that's all.
Continuing on, it finally hit me about a quarter of the way through this scene that Bobby was actually conducting a "mini" interrogation of Eames, so he could...you know...help his partner. It was a softer, gentler Bobby interrogation-style, but since he has this compulsion to get at the truth...make no mistake...he was treating her like a witness. When he asks her if she still feels guilty, she counters with, "Why are you taking this tone with me? You don't know what I feel." Ah...Bobby said something like that to Ross in "Endgame" just before Ross kicked him off the case...for about thirty seconds.
I chuckled at Bobby when they were in Mulrooney’s office, and he opens a door and is surprised to discover it is a closet, prompting him to say, "Is this a closet? He’s got a closet. We don’t have a closet." Then Bobby proceeds to whittle away at whatever is left of Mulrooney's self-esteem by reminding him that he has "been in all kinds of law…for a while." The final nail in the coffin being Bobby's reminder to Mulrooney that his former paralegal is the heir apparent to Jack McCoy...nice and rare reference to the mothership...and points out that, if he hadn’t left, Mulrooney would probably be the one in line for McCoy's job.
Then there is the scene at Mulrooney’s dad’s house. I started to leave this one out, but the old coot...Harry...acted like such a condescending jerk to Eames, I thought it was worth mentioning. I did like his line to Bobby when he said he didn't trust anyone in a suit…no disrespect...and Bobby counters with, “I’m with ya on that.” Then Harry recognizes Eames' name and says he remembers his son talking about her, but he thought Kevin had made her up. You know...a woman cop...he "hoped" she was up to the challenge. I repeat...jerk.
Next, this clueless old fart starts to describe the "type" of woman his son preferred and throws an offhand “no offense” in Eames' general direction. The implication being that Eames didn't fit the requisite stereotype...lucky Eames. Then he ended with a, "but there's nothing wrong with a woman that can handle a firearm." I love watching Bobby's facial expressions as he reacts to this Neanderthal's comments throughout the entire scene. For example: when Harry says Kevin stopped coming around after his mother passed away…it’s like you can read Bobby's mind…and it's saying...Gee, I can't imagine why. Or perhaps, "no shit" would be a more apt interpretation. And there is another “close to home” moment for Bobby when Harry says the kind of "closeness" Kevin had with his mother was different than that between a father and son.
Which leads us to another great scene...the bar scene with Bobby and Kevin. So, was Bobby pretending to be a wee bit snockered when he sat down on the bar stool next to Mulrooney? I mean...the Elvis impression..."thank you very much," then grunting "oof, oof" when he spies the pretty lady like he did to intimidate the doctor in "Crazy." Then Bobby says, "Look at that. Nice." Then Bobby says she's "intimidating" and Kevin goes on to give an in-depth analysis of what the "lady" is probably like. Now that dialogue was reminiscent of the "ball buster" discussion Bobby had with the guy in the bar from "Baggage" in Season 2. Who said it was evident that the new writers had not watched the earlier seasons?
I guess my next question is: just how stupid is this Kevin? Does he not realize that Bobby and Eames suspect him and that is why they're doggin' him? Perhaps it's that arrogance thing he has going...he thinks he's too smart to get caught by the dumb gumshoe detectives. Case in point...he gets real chummy with Bobby at the bar and opens up and confides in him, but then Bobby has a way of getting people to do that, doesn't he?
A purely rhetorical question, but what did Eames ever see in this guy? I mean, I know she was in mourning and grieving for Joe, but...come on.
Meanwhile...back at the squad room…Bobby returns from his meeting with Mulrooney to tell Eames that he’s..."concerned." (With good reason...the guy is bonkers!) But Eames seemed surprised. Bobby goes on to tell Eames that Mulrooney doesn’t blame Boz for his life’s failings, he blames her for losing the trial. Her snarky, “You’re a hell of a detective,” makes me want to smack her. Yes, he is and he’s trying to save your skinny ass, Eames, so shut up and listen to him. I love it...Bobby thinks Mulrooney's "unstable." Now, there’s an understatement if ever I heard one.
There are just way too many "fun" scenes in this one…like when Bobby goes to Mulrooney's apartment. It was typical Bobby...going through stuff, opening doors, snooping about, pointing out there was "neat" Kevin and "messy" Kevin…almost like he was...you know...two different people. (Bing! By George, I think he's got it!) Then Mulrooney "maneuvers" him to the door and Bobby asks, "Are we leaving?" Funny. And once Bobby's safely in the hallway, Mulrooney makes a lame excuse about forgetting to send a fax and closes the door in Bobby’s face…something I would never, ever do.
Ah…finally...the “gotcha” scene. It was neat how Bobby stands up for Eames by telling Mulrooney that it was too bad for him that Detective Eames didn’t fudge her testimony. And notice how Bobby didn't even clue Eames in on his discoveries until the “big reveal” moment; i.e., that Mulrooney had forged the signature on the letter he planted. And it was a nice touch at the end when Bobby knocks Mulrooney into the table and hands Eames the handcuffs…very classy Bobby gesture. My final question is: did Mulrooney really have a “Sybil-like” alter personality, or was he just faking the whole thing as part of his scheme to throw suspiscion away from himself? I keep going back to the scene when “she” was rifling through Eames' underwear drawer. If he was truly channeling a woman, why would she want Eames’ lacy under things? Wouldn’t she be jealous of Eames?
Poor Bobby, how tiresome it must be for him to always be engaging in a battle of wits with an ill-equipped buffoon. Sorry, I'm still obsessing over the final scene and the comment that Mulrooney makes to Bobby about "if he wants expert psychiatric testimony, he’ll get a shrink." (If the guy only knew.) In true Bobby fashion, he ignores Mulrooney and goes on to say, "Carl Jung believed that "rage" is the female side of our nature...an aggragate of all the females in our lives...makes us strong." So, what is Bobby saying here...that all females are full of rage?
So, the whole point of this demented man's villainy was to make Eames feel the same failure that had haunted him for years? People are crazy.
One final observation...when Mulrooney is all stretched out at the end, up against the cell, and his jacket is open showing his shirt and his little tummy "paunch"…ain’t no way he was the one dressing up in woman’s clothing in that earlier scene.
One final chuckle, Bobby calls Mulrooney "sweetie" when he pulls him off the cell and starts to cuff him...before looking at Eames and deciding it really should be her collar.
Okay, my head really hurts now from all this pondering and speculating and conjecturing, which…make no mistake…I realize means absolutely nothing to anyone but me. And now I have the rest of the day...I started this last night and saved it in Blogger, hence the date and time stamp...to get ready for tonight's episode. Don't know about you, but I'd like to go "All In" with Bobby. Yeah, I thought so.
And now...after my long winded tome...you are rewarded with a lovely slideshow of Bobby and his sidekicks.
"Lady's Man" Slideshow
Friday, July 17, 2009
It's Been A Longgggggggg Week
After dealing with demanding borrowers and bankers, surly employees and colleagues, and contrary computers the live long week at work, I needed a good, hearty laugh this evening. And I found it in an email from my friend, Cathy. Actually, the body of the email read, "Go to Google and look up Left Brain's Grocery List. It will make you laugh out loud." So, I did...and it did.
What I found was a link to an audio tract featuring the humorist Jeanne Robertson from an XM radio broadcast or a CD or something. I had never heard of her, but I thought I would give her a listen, and I'm so very glad I did. She was funny and witty and humorous without being vulgar or obscene, which...sadly...is a rare art these days. I loved it and am now searching for other tidbits of humor from this former "Miss North Carolina."
Anyhow, after "listening" to her recount her story about sending her husband, who she calls "Left Brain," to the grocery store, I wanted to "see" her tell it. So, I took myself over to YouTube and there she was and now...here she is. Hope she makes you laugh, too.
Compliments of JeanneRobertson.
What I found was a link to an audio tract featuring the humorist Jeanne Robertson from an XM radio broadcast or a CD or something. I had never heard of her, but I thought I would give her a listen, and I'm so very glad I did. She was funny and witty and humorous without being vulgar or obscene, which...sadly...is a rare art these days. I loved it and am now searching for other tidbits of humor from this former "Miss North Carolina."
Anyhow, after "listening" to her recount her story about sending her husband, who she calls "Left Brain," to the grocery store, I wanted to "see" her tell it. So, I took myself over to YouTube and there she was and now...here she is. Hope she makes you laugh, too.
Compliments of JeanneRobertson.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
How To Peel A Banana
Who knew? Well, obviously monkeys know, but I didn't. A whole lifetime of peeling a banana incorrectly...however did I manage? I reckon this falls in the category of "learning something new everyday." Hmm...wonder if our "know it all" Detective Bobby knows the proper way to peel a banana. Tut, tut...minds out of gutter, please. Just watch and learn something new.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Another Clip From "All In"
No time to dawdle this morning, or I'll be late for work. But I found this and me being...well, ME...I had to do a "quickie" post before heading off for the daily grind.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Vincent Talks About "Men In Black"
First of all, many, many thanks to Jazzy and Eliza for turning me on to this series of interviews that Vincent D'Onofrio gave in Paris recently. Well, it was probably one interview, but they covered a LOT of topics, and God Bless 'em, the Allocine.com website has archived a bunch of them at their site. Perhaps you've seen them. I haven't, but I'm gonna be watching...and posting...them all. (It's a disease...I can't help myself.)
If you watch, I believe you will come to understand "why" I chose to post this one first. As Vincent explains how he came up with the "bug walk" in Men In Black, he extends his leg and puts his big ol' Size 13 right up in the camera. It's cute. Note to self: You're starting to like him too much.
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that there are French subtitles, so feel free to practice reading your French "whilst" listening to Vincent's dulcet tones.
If you watch, I believe you will come to understand "why" I chose to post this one first. As Vincent explains how he came up with the "bug walk" in Men In Black, he extends his leg and puts his big ol' Size 13 right up in the camera. It's cute. Note to self: You're starting to like him too much.
Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that there are French subtitles, so feel free to practice reading your French "whilst" listening to Vincent's dulcet tones.
Monday, July 13, 2009
"All In" Preview & Promo
I've been in a bad mood all day, so it was nice to find this at the end of the work day. Looking forward to next week's episode, even though that will mean we have only one more Bobby episode left. Argh! I wish USA would make a decision about Season 9, so they can start filming before winter. Sorry, but I'm tired of the overcoat and scarf. I want to see me some "Bobby" walking down the street...if you know what I'm talking about.
I simply could not get "into" last night's episode. I guess it was okay, but I found myself wishing it would end, so I could see the preview for next week. The teaser says, "Goren enters the city's most dangerous underworld of high stakes gambling, sex & murder." Then there is a short snippet when we see Bobby brandishing his gun, and he taunts this guy by saying, "You wanna bet that I have the rage to take somebody's life?" Oh yeah, I'm ready...bring it on.
So, here's the USA Network clip.
Scene from Law & Order: Criminal Intent “All In” July 19th
Uploaded by USANetwork. - Check out other Film & TV videos.
"All In" Promo
I simply could not get "into" last night's episode. I guess it was okay, but I found myself wishing it would end, so I could see the preview for next week. The teaser says, "Goren enters the city's most dangerous underworld of high stakes gambling, sex & murder." Then there is a short snippet when we see Bobby brandishing his gun, and he taunts this guy by saying, "You wanna bet that I have the rage to take somebody's life?" Oh yeah, I'm ready...bring it on.
So, here's the USA Network clip.
Scene from Law & Order: Criminal Intent “All In” July 19th
Uploaded by USANetwork. - Check out other Film & TV videos.
"All In" Promo
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Happy Birthday...Music Wench!!!
Well, today is Music Wench's birthday. I'm not saying how many years "young" she is today, but if you want to know, feel free to check out her blog here. You may also leave a "Happy Birthday" message there if you are thus inclined. (Every time I link a site like that, I am reminded that Music Wench is the one who taught me how to do that, so thank you, Music Wench.)
I'm not clever or talented or technically savvy enough to put together an animated collage or a music video tribute, so I fear the best I could do was assemble a smattering of photos of young Bobby, "mature" Bobby, Eames, Bobby with Eames, some Vincent shots, and there's even a photo or two of Ross thrown in for good measure. I know you like them all.
So, I am getting ready to head out to the farmer's market in a bit, but wanted to post this birthday wish "early." I hope you have a wonderful day doing whatever your heart desires. Make it special and tell us all about it on your blog.
Happy Birthday from Bobby and the gang!
And just for fun, here's a little Birthday ditty from "Sir Paul" to get your day rockin' right.
I'm not clever or talented or technically savvy enough to put together an animated collage or a music video tribute, so I fear the best I could do was assemble a smattering of photos of young Bobby, "mature" Bobby, Eames, Bobby with Eames, some Vincent shots, and there's even a photo or two of Ross thrown in for good measure. I know you like them all.
So, I am getting ready to head out to the farmer's market in a bit, but wanted to post this birthday wish "early." I hope you have a wonderful day doing whatever your heart desires. Make it special and tell us all about it on your blog.
Happy Birthday from Bobby and the gang!
And just for fun, here's a little Birthday ditty from "Sir Paul" to get your day rockin' right.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Lightning Strikes...INSIDE The House
I saw this story on GMA yesterday morning before I headed off to work. You might think it unlikely that lightning can strike someone inside a house, but it is most definitely possible. I used to rent a small house on the Ohio River back home, and it got "hit" by lightning twice while I was living there. Thank goodness I have a brother who is an insurance agent; renter's insurance came in handy both times.
Anyway, the first time it happened, I came home from work...there had been severe storms during the day...to find that several "electrical" appliances were not working, including my TV and cordless phones. The second time, I had just arrived home from work. The sky was turning black and it looked like a big gray wall of water was heading up the river toward my house. I closed the curtains and was just reaching to unplug my TV when this lighting bolt...or that is what it looked like to me...exploded in my living room. I mean, sparks flew out of the outlet and there was a loud crackling sound. Scary stuff.
I wasn't hurt, but it wiped me out. I lost two televisions, two VCRs, telephones, computer, garbage disposal, hot water heater. You name it, it got "fried." So, when I saw this story about the mom standing at the kitchen sink, holding a pan, and getting zapped by a bolt of lightning that came through a light fixture in the ceiling, it caught my attention.
It is a nice story; especially how the mom's nine-year old son, Tristan, had the presence of mind to call 9-1-1 instead of his grandmother as his mom had instructed him to do. When Robin Roberts asks him how he knew to do that, he says he doesn't remember how he thought to do it, but on this "equation" he somehow just remembered what to do. Cute. Art Linkletter was right...kids do say the darndest things.
Anyway, the first time it happened, I came home from work...there had been severe storms during the day...to find that several "electrical" appliances were not working, including my TV and cordless phones. The second time, I had just arrived home from work. The sky was turning black and it looked like a big gray wall of water was heading up the river toward my house. I closed the curtains and was just reaching to unplug my TV when this lighting bolt...or that is what it looked like to me...exploded in my living room. I mean, sparks flew out of the outlet and there was a loud crackling sound. Scary stuff.
I wasn't hurt, but it wiped me out. I lost two televisions, two VCRs, telephones, computer, garbage disposal, hot water heater. You name it, it got "fried." So, when I saw this story about the mom standing at the kitchen sink, holding a pan, and getting zapped by a bolt of lightning that came through a light fixture in the ceiling, it caught my attention.
It is a nice story; especially how the mom's nine-year old son, Tristan, had the presence of mind to call 9-1-1 instead of his grandmother as his mom had instructed him to do. When Robin Roberts asks him how he knew to do that, he says he doesn't remember how he thought to do it, but on this "equation" he somehow just remembered what to do. Cute. Art Linkletter was right...kids do say the darndest things.
Monday, July 6, 2009
Uncle Jay Explains The First Six Months of 2009
I subscribe to Uncle Jay, so I got an email late last night with a link to the following video. In the body of the email itself was the following: "Uncle Jay is taking the week off, just like Congress. It's not clear at this point whether Uncle Jay's big-time connections will get him into this week's historic memorial service, as the nation gathers as one to mourn the sudden and tragic death of Sarah Palin's career." I thought that was cute.
And speaking of this woman, I certainly hope that, if and/or when the time comes, she decides to run for President, the people of this country remember that...you know...she walked away from her elected post a full 18 months before it expired...and just say NO! Being the President of the United States is a great good deal more "challenging" than being the governor of a State. So do us all a favor, Sarah, since it's obvious you can't take the "heat," please stay the hell away from our kitchen...far, far away.
And now for a recap of the first half of 2009, here's Uncle Jay.
And speaking of this woman, I certainly hope that, if and/or when the time comes, she decides to run for President, the people of this country remember that...you know...she walked away from her elected post a full 18 months before it expired...and just say NO! Being the President of the United States is a great good deal more "challenging" than being the governor of a State. So do us all a favor, Sarah, since it's obvious you can't take the "heat," please stay the hell away from our kitchen...far, far away.
And now for a recap of the first half of 2009, here's Uncle Jay.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Land Of The Free, Home Of The Brave
I had not given much thought to a "Happy 4th of July" post this year, but then I received an email a couple of days ago that made it very simple for me. Last year, I did two posts; one of a "traditional" nature I called God Bless The USA and another in which I described My Most Memorable 4th of July. If you are the least bit interested in those, just follow the links. If nothing else, it will make it easier for me to find them...if I want to.
So, another year has come and gone. A lot has happened here and around the world...some good...some not so good. Sometimes, we Americans do and say things that make me hang my head in shame...then there are other times when we come shining brightly through in ways that bring me to tears. Such is life...I suppose. But when all is said and done...even with all its warts and flaws and blemishes and bad political decisions...there is no other place I'd rather be than right here in the good ol' U S of A.
As I mentioned at the outset, I received a "topical" email to use in my "rah-rah" post this year. It highlights some of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and the sacrifices they made to ensure the freedoms we Americans enjoy today. So, please indulge this brief history lesson regarding our "Founding Fathers" and their fight for Independence. (Note: If you click on their names, you can see their picture and a short bio.)
******************************
Have you ever wondered what happened to the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence? Five signers were captured by the British as traitors, and tortured before they died. Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned. Two lost their sons serving in the Revolutionary Army; another had two sons captured.
Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds or hardships of the Revolutionary War. They signed and they pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor. What kind of men were they?
Twenty-four were lawyers and jurists. Eleven were merchants, nine were farmers and large plantation owners; men of means, well educated, but they signed the Declaration of Independence knowing full-well that the penalty would be death if they were captured.
Carter Braxton of Virginia, a wealthy planter and trader, saw his ships swept from the seas by the British Navy. He sold his home and properties to pay his debts, and died in rags.
Thomas McKeam was so hounded by the British that he was forced to move his family almost constantly. He served in the Congress without pay, and his family was kept in hiding. His possessions were taken from him, and poverty was his reward.
Vandals or soldiers looted the properties of Ellery, Hall, Clymer, Walton, Gwinnett, Heyward, Rutledge, and Middleton.
At the battle of Yorktown, Thomas Nelson, Jr., noted that the British General Cornwallis had taken over the Nelson home for his headquarters. He quietly urged General George Washington to open fire. The home was destroyed, and Nelson died bankrupt.
Francis Lewis had his home and properties destroyed. The enemy jailed his wife, and she died within a few months.
John Hart was driven from his wife's bedside as she was dying. Their 13 children fled for their lives. His fields and his gristmill were laid to waste. For more than a year, he lived in forests and caves, returning home to find his wife dead and his children vanished.
So, take a few minutes while enjoying your 4th of July holiday and silently thank these patriots. It's not much to ask for the price they paid. Remember: freedom is never free! Patriotism is not a sin, and the Fourth of July has more to it than beer, picnics, and baseball games.
******************************
The line that jumped out at me was, "They pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor." Their "sacred" honor. Honor is an attribute lacking in so many people these days, I just thought it was worth repeating.
Anyway, last year, I posted videos of the singing of "God Bless The USA" and "God Bless America." This year, I am going to conclude with a video of the singing of "The Star Spangled Banner." It is by no means an easy song to sing and, having attended way more than my fair share of professional sporting events in my life, I have heard the song sung beautifully and, conversely, "butchered" by many an amateur vocalist. (One of these days, I'm going to do a post about that, too.)
In my search of YouTube for an appropriate video, I was happy to find several versions by one of my favorite artists...Josh Groban. This young man is in a word...amazing...and his rendition is exquisite. And, yes, it brought me to tears and made me...for the moment anyway...proud to be an American.
With thanks to Carrie1958, who so thoughtfully shared this video.
So, another year has come and gone. A lot has happened here and around the world...some good...some not so good. Sometimes, we Americans do and say things that make me hang my head in shame...then there are other times when we come shining brightly through in ways that bring me to tears. Such is life...I suppose. But when all is said and done...even with all its warts and flaws and blemishes and bad political decisions...there is no other place I'd rather be than right here in the good ol' U S of A.
As I mentioned at the outset, I received a "topical" email to use in my "rah-rah" post this year. It highlights some of the signers of the Declaration of Independence and the sacrifices they made to ensure the freedoms we Americans enjoy today. So, please indulge this brief history lesson regarding our "Founding Fathers" and their fight for Independence. (Note: If you click on their names, you can see their picture and a short bio.)
******************************
Have you ever wondered what happened to the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence? Five signers were captured by the British as traitors, and tortured before they died. Twelve had their homes ransacked and burned. Two lost their sons serving in the Revolutionary Army; another had two sons captured.
Nine of the 56 fought and died from wounds or hardships of the Revolutionary War. They signed and they pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor. What kind of men were they?
Twenty-four were lawyers and jurists. Eleven were merchants, nine were farmers and large plantation owners; men of means, well educated, but they signed the Declaration of Independence knowing full-well that the penalty would be death if they were captured.
Carter Braxton of Virginia, a wealthy planter and trader, saw his ships swept from the seas by the British Navy. He sold his home and properties to pay his debts, and died in rags.
Thomas McKeam was so hounded by the British that he was forced to move his family almost constantly. He served in the Congress without pay, and his family was kept in hiding. His possessions were taken from him, and poverty was his reward.
Vandals or soldiers looted the properties of Ellery, Hall, Clymer, Walton, Gwinnett, Heyward, Rutledge, and Middleton.
At the battle of Yorktown, Thomas Nelson, Jr., noted that the British General Cornwallis had taken over the Nelson home for his headquarters. He quietly urged General George Washington to open fire. The home was destroyed, and Nelson died bankrupt.
Francis Lewis had his home and properties destroyed. The enemy jailed his wife, and she died within a few months.
John Hart was driven from his wife's bedside as she was dying. Their 13 children fled for their lives. His fields and his gristmill were laid to waste. For more than a year, he lived in forests and caves, returning home to find his wife dead and his children vanished.
So, take a few minutes while enjoying your 4th of July holiday and silently thank these patriots. It's not much to ask for the price they paid. Remember: freedom is never free! Patriotism is not a sin, and the Fourth of July has more to it than beer, picnics, and baseball games.
******************************
The line that jumped out at me was, "They pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor." Their "sacred" honor. Honor is an attribute lacking in so many people these days, I just thought it was worth repeating.
Anyway, last year, I posted videos of the singing of "God Bless The USA" and "God Bless America." This year, I am going to conclude with a video of the singing of "The Star Spangled Banner." It is by no means an easy song to sing and, having attended way more than my fair share of professional sporting events in my life, I have heard the song sung beautifully and, conversely, "butchered" by many an amateur vocalist. (One of these days, I'm going to do a post about that, too.)
In my search of YouTube for an appropriate video, I was happy to find several versions by one of my favorite artists...Josh Groban. This young man is in a word...amazing...and his rendition is exquisite. And, yes, it brought me to tears and made me...for the moment anyway...proud to be an American.
With thanks to Carrie1958, who so thoughtfully shared this video.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
"Lady's Man" Two Minute Replay
I finally finished screencapping the episode last night, but am still organizing my thoughts...such as they are...so it will be a couple of days before I get around to that post, along with a ton of pictures.
But, speaking of smarmy "Ladies' Men," have you been following the story out of South Carolina and their pathetic schmuck of a governor, Mark Sanford? Are men really this stupid? (Sorry, that was a rhetorical question.) He ditches his security team and "slithers" off to Argentina for a clandestine assignation with his South American babe, then comes sniveling back home to "explain" his actions. Do people who conduct their lives in the public eye truly believe they can do stuff like this and get away with it? That no one will pay attention? That no one will care that the governor of a state has gone missing? Who am I kidding? We have become a "morally bankrupt" society...nothing should surprise me.
Evidently, when his wife found out about his transgressions with this woman, she forgave him, but told him...in no uncertain terms....that he was not to go near the woman again. Well, I read an article today in which she stated, for months after that, he repeatedly asked her "permission" to visit his lover in Argentina. I believe I've actually run out of derisive names to call this imbecile. (Guess not.)
His latest quote of sublime idiocy was that he was "trying" to fall back in love with his wife (Jenny Sanford) but he had found his true "soul-mate" in Maria Belen Chapur. The article said that he pines ...pines...for his Argentine lover. What woman, who has even an ounce of self-respect...a shred of dignity...could stay with a worm like this? My brother told me that Jenny Sanford is the heir to some power saw manufacturer's fortune (sorry, cannot recall the brand name). All I can say is, if I were Mr. Sanford, I'd be sleeping with one eye open around the "little woman." But at least a power saw makes a cleaner, swifter cut than the jagged edges of a broken beer bottle.
Now, how's that for a segway into the two minute replay from "Lady's Man?"
But, speaking of smarmy "Ladies' Men," have you been following the story out of South Carolina and their pathetic schmuck of a governor, Mark Sanford? Are men really this stupid? (Sorry, that was a rhetorical question.) He ditches his security team and "slithers" off to Argentina for a clandestine assignation with his South American babe, then comes sniveling back home to "explain" his actions. Do people who conduct their lives in the public eye truly believe they can do stuff like this and get away with it? That no one will pay attention? That no one will care that the governor of a state has gone missing? Who am I kidding? We have become a "morally bankrupt" society...nothing should surprise me.
Evidently, when his wife found out about his transgressions with this woman, she forgave him, but told him...in no uncertain terms....that he was not to go near the woman again. Well, I read an article today in which she stated, for months after that, he repeatedly asked her "permission" to visit his lover in Argentina. I believe I've actually run out of derisive names to call this imbecile. (Guess not.)
His latest quote of sublime idiocy was that he was "trying" to fall back in love with his wife (Jenny Sanford) but he had found his true "soul-mate" in Maria Belen Chapur. The article said that he pines ...pines...for his Argentine lover. What woman, who has even an ounce of self-respect...a shred of dignity...could stay with a worm like this? My brother told me that Jenny Sanford is the heir to some power saw manufacturer's fortune (sorry, cannot recall the brand name). All I can say is, if I were Mr. Sanford, I'd be sleeping with one eye open around the "little woman." But at least a power saw makes a cleaner, swifter cut than the jagged edges of a broken beer bottle.
Now, how's that for a segway into the two minute replay from "Lady's Man?"
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