Critics Corner

On Saturday night, I finally got to see the movie Once, which I have wanted to see since early summer. Luckily it was still playing at the Redmond Picture Show which is a theatre/lounge where you can sip a cocktail while watching a moving. I ordered a Black Pearl which is a rum, amaretto, pineapple juice concoction. The drink was delicious, but mostly I ordered it because it made me think of Johnny Depp.

Once is the story of a street musician/song writer in Dublin, Ireland. He meets a young Czech immigrant woman who sells flowers on the street. She also happens to be a pianist/song writer and when they get together to write and play music, magic happens.

I guess the movie could be considered a "musical" (a genre of which I am generally a fan), but the songs don't feel contrived. Watching the musical numbers, I actually felt like a secret observer getting to witness something very special unfolding in front of me. The chemistry between them is truly magical and sitting in the theatre, I had chills (an experience I never had watching Dreamgirls). Once isn't flashy and it is at times bittersweet, but it has heart. I give it my coveted "one thumb up". Go see it if it's still playing in your area!

To see other reviews (of less prominent critics), check out the link below
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/once/

P & P from DC

Back in February of 2001, I went kayaking for a week in the Sea of Cortez with Sea Kayak Adventures.

http://www.seakayakadventures.com/cortez.htm

It was a fantastic week of paddling through the clear blue water to islands in the Sea of Cortez and camping on sandy beaches. I traveled with a small group from around the US and Canada, including Pat and Patty Garvey from Washington D.C. I was delighted and surprised last week to hear that they were traveling to Seattle over the weekend and wanted to visit.

It was so great to visit with them; both still as funny and warm-hearted as I remember. It was nice to catch up and to also reminisce about our trip, the hermit crab races on the beach, the pineapple upside down cake our guides baked for Pat's birthday, the windstorm that carried our tents into the lagoon, and the beautiful sunsets that one could appreciate while sitting on the throne (AKA, port-a-potty)! I have been richly rewarded to meet so many wonderful people on my travels.

Thanks to the Garvey's for a wonderful visit. I look forward to the next time.

I have a not-so-secret admirer

Yes, I have an admirer. He is, however, four years old.

According to his mother, Finn anxiously awaits my arrival when I visit the O'Malley household in Bellingham.

Kristin told me that Finn was very excited about my overnight visit this past weekend and kept inquiring about what time I would arrive. When I did arrive and made my way to the playroom downstairs, Finn did a little "happy dance" and gave a squeal of excitement (Why don't my adult friends do that when I come to visit?).

The admiration of a four-year-old is a curious thing however, as Finn stood shyly by the couch after the initial excitement of our reunion. The early awkwardness quickly melted away after I gave him a big bear hug and a few raspberries on his bare belly (something I promise NOT to do when I greet my adult friends). In the afternoon when I was away at the wedding, I am told that Finn repeatedly asked in desperation,"When is she coming back?". Then in the morning he told me "I thought you were NEVER going to get here". Kristin says that Finn was also very excited for us to eat breakfast together and I was glad to oblige. After all, who can can say no to a breakfast of Honey Nut Cheerios with a toddler in Underoos! Of course, I knew it was time for breakfast because I could hear Finn outside the guest bedroom in the morning, asking "Why is she in there?".

I feel a lot of pressure living up the expectations of a four-year-old. I think my reputation has been inflated by his mother. If I could only be as great as Finn thinks I am.

He's the terrific one.

pic #1- Kristin and Ruarc

pic #2 - Finn the Master Painter

Reshelle and Tom DeForrest

This past weekend I was in Bellingham for the wedding of my friend, Reshelle. Reshelle and I have been friends since the 6th grade and I have so many fond memories of growing up with "Rey". Reshelle has a warm heart and a playful nature that draws everyone to her. Her wedding to Tom was a perfect reflection of their love, both touching and funny. The whole day was lovely and the country setting was beautiful with sunny skies and a clear view of Mt. Baker. Being there makes me remember why how much I love Whatcom County. It still feels like "home".

Best Wishes Reshelle and Tom!!!!

the countdown begins

Only 179 more get-ups 'til summer vacation!