Like my prior book review, this post will sum up some thoughts I had on movies recently seen. Most are older movies that I finally got around to seeing because they were on cable and I DVR'd them. We don't get out to the theater too much because of the kids and price. We can't really take the kids to most movies we'd like to see and its expensive to not only go to the theater (even with discount tickets - although that helps), but also for the babysitter. But the kids are getting older, so at least we can take them to some kids movies now. Shrek is a definite possibility.
So here's what I've seen recently, well mostly over the past long weekend. I'll try not to divulge too many spoilers:
Revolutionary Road: About a husband/wife in their late 20s living in suburbia Connecticut in the 1950s who are unhappy with their lives. They decide to move to Paris and switch roles (she will now work), but circumstances prevent this decision from occurring with unhappy results. I can see why this movie was very controversial, since it involves pro-life/pro-choice issues, but also the roles in which men and women played, especially during that time. Women were pretty much forced into two roles: married with children, or working single. With the production of the Pill and other better forms of birth control, women finally had the choice to marry, but delay childbirth, which I believe helped a lot of women who weren't yet ready to have kids, wanted a career first. I think that would have solved April's problem. She was definitely unhappy being forced into the mother role before she wanted it, if she ever wanted it. At least moving to Paris would have allowed her some time to have a career, something outside the home. I can respect and understand April's desires and am happy that I at least got to live in a time where I could have my career first and now enjoy being a mother. Heck, I'd give up working now and just be a full time mom if we could afford it. So I sympathize mostly with April in this movie, even though she made a bad decision in the end.
W.: I'll say one thing for this movie, my opinion of GWB actually improved. I know he was still never the sharpest tool in the shed, but at least he was sincere in his beliefs, in realizing that he had to give up alcohol and get his life in order, in finding what he wanted to do as opposed to what his family wanted him to do, in at least trying to be a good President. Its really almost a shame that he got played by others like Rumsfeld, Rove and Cheney, who had their own best interests at heart rather than the country's. Too bad he didn't listen better to Powell (who I think also got played a bit). I still don't like that his 'born again' nature led this country into such a division, between those that still want separation of church and state and those that obviously want a state religion. And I really dislike how his very nature made people of this country prefer a president "who one could have a beer with" rather than someone who got into Harvard on his own merits and graduated at the top of his class. I just hope that for those that see this movie and really understand it, realize that we need to elect people that can stand on their own, and not just be surrounded by yes-men and yes-women (yeah you Conde - I swear the administration went looking for a black yes-woman just so they could point to how diverse they were) and be run by those that use the good nature of others for their own selfish reasons.
The Hangover: - So this was supposed to be the 'breakout' comedy a summer or two ago, one that everyone underestimated, but turned into a blockbuster. Yeah, I don't get it. It was ok, fine, some good parts I did laugh at. But I fail to see why this was huge. The guy on the roof couldn't yell to get someone's attention, especially when people were getting the mattress off the spire? They really shared a back seat with the tiger (in getting him to the hotel) and how did they get him up to the room? They really couldn't show up to the wedding and taken another 15 minutes to shower? How they'd get the Chinese guy in the trunk naked anyway while drunk and high if they guy could take them out when they were sober? And the guy with the girlfriend back home was very unrealistic, I can't even imagine why a guy would stay with a woman like that, let alone want to marry her. So yeah, the movie was cute, but I didn't think it lived up to its reputation.
Benjamin Button - Another movie that while I thought was ok, didn't live up to the hype. Sure it was cool to see the guy age backwards, as unrealistic as that could be (I understand it was supposed to be akin to Forest Gump, but that was at least in the realm of possibility) and see how he interacted with people who didn't realize his 'true' age. But it was so contrived, and it had to be, that it was hard to really enjoy it.
The Incredible Hulk - Edward Norton edition. Not a complete remake of the origin story, which at least was a nice change of pace. A sequel without an official prequel, presuming we knew the origin story (either that or Eric Bana didn't/couldn't/wasn't asked to do the sequel). Either way, I liked Norton in the role, although this was mostly a special effects laden movie and the "villain" hulk pretty obvious from the beginning. I loved seeing Phil from Modern Family. But the story was pretty thin.
Taking Woodstock - This was a pretty cool movie, a behind the scenes look at how Woodstock came to be. Yeah, would have liked more music, but the story was cool. I read later how the main protagonist was really in his mid-30s, whereas in the movie he looks to be like 22. It definitely came off better in the movie how he allowed himself to be pushed around by his parents, although he appeared to be making much more mature decisions over the other parts of his life that belied how young he looked. It gave me some flashbacks to when I went to the US Festival in CA back in 83, with driving there, parking a long ways away, riding a truck, bus and walking there, how big it was. Of course, wasn't quite the extent of drugs (or at least none that I took outside a little bit of pot - I was driving). Quite the experience, I'm sure Woodstock was even moreso, especially since it lasted several days.
Robin Hood - Russell Crowe edition. A current movie! Went to this one last week when we went out for our anniversary. Our other choice was Iron Man 2, but Steph apparently never watched the DVD for the first movie (I could have sworn we watched it together, but maybe not). Still, not bad. Not as campy as the Kevin Costner movie (ok, I only missed Alan Rickman), and better dramatic wise and realism wise. Naturally took liberties with history, but don't they all, when you're dealing with a bit of a mythological or at least legendary person. I liked finally seeing a portrayal of Eleanor d'Aquitane and acknowledging that she had a pretty significant role during that time period. Also a lot more french than normally seen in these movies, which was also much more realistic. It could have used more french even, but then people would think they were seeing a foreign film. I was happy to understand a fair amount of the french, even without the subtitles. My main criticism, as many have pointed out, is the ages of the characters. Especially for that time frame, its totally unrealistic to have Robin Hood played by a 45 year old man. Crowe did a decent enough job at it, but definitely if they're going to do a sequel, better do so quick.
Forgetting Sarah Marshall - I keep hearing how "good" Judd Apatow movies are and yet every time I see one I have to wonder who thinks this? I guess they appeal to a certain segment of the population, maybe college age kids and maybe I would have liked this movie better if I was 20 years younger. I was bored throughout most of the movie and kept my finger on the fast forward button. I do have to say that I thought I had seen several of the actors in other things, but checking IMDb, nope. I guess these movies saturate the media quite well.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
I'm Right!!
There are many ups and downs in my job. Most of the time, it can be completely monotonous, doing a lot of the same things over and over. Same standard Answers to Complaints or Objections. Same standard discovery answers. Same routine in how to defend certain cases. Same usual cost of defense settlements even when our client is probably not liable because settlement is cheaper than trial or even summary judgment (blech).
Every once in a while, we get some real interesting cases that require actual legal research, and involve a significant amount of damages that we get the green light to really fight a claim. And when my research shows that my client should win and the plaintiff refuses to acknowledge the logic of my arguments, nothing feels so good as when a court agrees that I AM RIGHT! Yeah, I just saved my client millions of dollars, and yeah the case is not over as the plaintiff will no doubt appeal, but still I WAS RIGHT!!! HA HA HA!
Ok, got that off my chest.
It just feels so good to know that the hours I spent researching the law, reading many dozens of cases, checking citations to dozens of more cases, following every possible tangent, reading and rereading deposition transcripts for both the best and worst testimony, reviewing hundreds and hundreds of documents, all ended up PROVING ME RIGHT!
I can handle the routine of my work knowing that these moments come along where I finally feel that the money and hours I spent on my legal education and work experience was worth it, that I helped my client (who likely would have to file for bankruptcy if we lost, putting a lot more people out of work)and I WAS RIGHT!! I was right on the law, right on the facts, right in all my case cites and legal interpretation, right in all my arguments.
I WAS RIGHT!
I just can't hear that enough sometimes. :)
Every once in a while, we get some real interesting cases that require actual legal research, and involve a significant amount of damages that we get the green light to really fight a claim. And when my research shows that my client should win and the plaintiff refuses to acknowledge the logic of my arguments, nothing feels so good as when a court agrees that I AM RIGHT! Yeah, I just saved my client millions of dollars, and yeah the case is not over as the plaintiff will no doubt appeal, but still I WAS RIGHT!!! HA HA HA!
Ok, got that off my chest.
It just feels so good to know that the hours I spent researching the law, reading many dozens of cases, checking citations to dozens of more cases, following every possible tangent, reading and rereading deposition transcripts for both the best and worst testimony, reviewing hundreds and hundreds of documents, all ended up PROVING ME RIGHT!
I can handle the routine of my work knowing that these moments come along where I finally feel that the money and hours I spent on my legal education and work experience was worth it, that I helped my client (who likely would have to file for bankruptcy if we lost, putting a lot more people out of work)and I WAS RIGHT!! I was right on the law, right on the facts, right in all my case cites and legal interpretation, right in all my arguments.
I WAS RIGHT!
I just can't hear that enough sometimes. :)
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Bits and Pieces
Wow, almost a month since my last post. Been busy with work and trying to catch up on some shows on my DVR (and lots of good finales on TV this season). So a few thoughts here and there.
Voted in the election yesterday. Had a bit of a choice between Specter and Sestak. Specter is a lot like me, generally a more moderate republican, but now having to live in the democrat party because the republicans went way too extreme to the far right. Ideologically, I like Specter better, but I voted for Sestak in part because I was concerned over Specter's age and health, and worried that if PA voted in republican for governor, we'd get a too far right wing replacement like Santorum if Specter became unable to serve. Plus, Sestak did some nice work as my Congressman, and frankly if I have to choose between democrats and right wing nutjobs, I'm choosing the democrat side of the ticket and would rather have their platform succeed. So here's to hoping that Sestak defeats Toomey in the general election.
Was very sad to hear of the death of Ronnie James Dio. My first concert was a festival type show with many bands, headlined by Black Sabbath with Dio as the singer. I went mostly to see Journey and Cheap Trick, but I was so impressed by Dio's voice that I bought their album (Heaven and Hell) and followed Dio on his prior and subsequent bands. I never cared much for his theatrics, but the man had one of the best voices in rock. I understand from a friend of mine, that Dio was very open and nice to every fan he met, he didn't hide away or cop an attitude that he was 'too good for the riff raff'. I haven't listened to him sing in a long time, so I'm going to add some BS, Dio and Rainbow tunes to my ipod.
Been reading up on new TV shows for next season and so far, nothing has grabbed my attention, certainly nothing sounds as interesting as Lost replacement. I'll probably check out a few shows, but I definitely have less patience for them than previously. Too much time needed for other things to try and catch up on shows I've recorded. Plus, I already have 9 shows I'm already definitely committed to (TAR, Chuck, Castle - love Nathan Fillon, Survivor, Parenthood, Grey's Anatomy, CSI, Modern Family, The Big Bang Theory), and 6 others that I'm more luke-warm about, but still watch (CSI NY, The Good Wife, Desperate Housewives, V, Stargate Universe, Glee). That's more than enough to keep me busy.
So many of the new shows look like the same old medical drama this, legal drama that, cop show everything else. Legal dramas are very hit and miss with me. I know they are nothing like reality, I accept that. But in order to stomach that total break from reality, the show either has to be wildly entertaining/funny/overthetop with great actors like Boston Legal, or very poignant with topics that need to be addressed, but aren't, like The Practice. Simply silly shows like Ally McBeal or Eli Stone don't interest me. Shows that are patently wrong on the law, procedure, lawfirm life, everything, like The Deep End, don't interest me (and frankly annoy me). The Good Wife walks a thin line. Its got great acting going for it, and the underlying story about the political husband is good. The legal drama, less so.
I get enough medical drama with Grey's Anatomy and medical/cop drama with CSI. I don't need to see more blood and guts. Same with cop shows. Unless you through in some unusual twist and cool music, like Life on Mars did, I'm a bit worn out on the same catch the bad guy plot lines.
So we'll see what I have room for on my DVR, and what lasts more than a few weeks. These days, with the ease of seeing shows streamed on line, I doubt I'll watch a new show from the beginning. I'll wait to see if its going to stick around a whole season before I commit. Nothing I hate more than to get into a show, only to have it pulled. I tend to watch most shows by DVR these days anyway (except for TAR and Survivor) because I can fastforward through the commercials. Saves more time.
I won my Survivor pool this season, woo hoo! Go Sandra! Its funny seeing comments about how Russell should have won because he's so strategic. He can make it to the end of the season, but like Amanda, can't build up enough good will of the jurors to win the money. I'd love to try out for the show, but no way would Stephane forgive me for leaving him with the kids for almost two months. Maybe if the show is still around in another 10 years, but then I'd more than likely be an early boot as an "older" contestant. Oh well.
Voted in the election yesterday. Had a bit of a choice between Specter and Sestak. Specter is a lot like me, generally a more moderate republican, but now having to live in the democrat party because the republicans went way too extreme to the far right. Ideologically, I like Specter better, but I voted for Sestak in part because I was concerned over Specter's age and health, and worried that if PA voted in republican for governor, we'd get a too far right wing replacement like Santorum if Specter became unable to serve. Plus, Sestak did some nice work as my Congressman, and frankly if I have to choose between democrats and right wing nutjobs, I'm choosing the democrat side of the ticket and would rather have their platform succeed. So here's to hoping that Sestak defeats Toomey in the general election.
Was very sad to hear of the death of Ronnie James Dio. My first concert was a festival type show with many bands, headlined by Black Sabbath with Dio as the singer. I went mostly to see Journey and Cheap Trick, but I was so impressed by Dio's voice that I bought their album (Heaven and Hell) and followed Dio on his prior and subsequent bands. I never cared much for his theatrics, but the man had one of the best voices in rock. I understand from a friend of mine, that Dio was very open and nice to every fan he met, he didn't hide away or cop an attitude that he was 'too good for the riff raff'. I haven't listened to him sing in a long time, so I'm going to add some BS, Dio and Rainbow tunes to my ipod.
Been reading up on new TV shows for next season and so far, nothing has grabbed my attention, certainly nothing sounds as interesting as Lost replacement. I'll probably check out a few shows, but I definitely have less patience for them than previously. Too much time needed for other things to try and catch up on shows I've recorded. Plus, I already have 9 shows I'm already definitely committed to (TAR, Chuck, Castle - love Nathan Fillon, Survivor, Parenthood, Grey's Anatomy, CSI, Modern Family, The Big Bang Theory), and 6 others that I'm more luke-warm about, but still watch (CSI NY, The Good Wife, Desperate Housewives, V, Stargate Universe, Glee). That's more than enough to keep me busy.
So many of the new shows look like the same old medical drama this, legal drama that, cop show everything else. Legal dramas are very hit and miss with me. I know they are nothing like reality, I accept that. But in order to stomach that total break from reality, the show either has to be wildly entertaining/funny/overthetop with great actors like Boston Legal, or very poignant with topics that need to be addressed, but aren't, like The Practice. Simply silly shows like Ally McBeal or Eli Stone don't interest me. Shows that are patently wrong on the law, procedure, lawfirm life, everything, like The Deep End, don't interest me (and frankly annoy me). The Good Wife walks a thin line. Its got great acting going for it, and the underlying story about the political husband is good. The legal drama, less so.
I get enough medical drama with Grey's Anatomy and medical/cop drama with CSI. I don't need to see more blood and guts. Same with cop shows. Unless you through in some unusual twist and cool music, like Life on Mars did, I'm a bit worn out on the same catch the bad guy plot lines.
So we'll see what I have room for on my DVR, and what lasts more than a few weeks. These days, with the ease of seeing shows streamed on line, I doubt I'll watch a new show from the beginning. I'll wait to see if its going to stick around a whole season before I commit. Nothing I hate more than to get into a show, only to have it pulled. I tend to watch most shows by DVR these days anyway (except for TAR and Survivor) because I can fastforward through the commercials. Saves more time.
I won my Survivor pool this season, woo hoo! Go Sandra! Its funny seeing comments about how Russell should have won because he's so strategic. He can make it to the end of the season, but like Amanda, can't build up enough good will of the jurors to win the money. I'd love to try out for the show, but no way would Stephane forgive me for leaving him with the kids for almost two months. Maybe if the show is still around in another 10 years, but then I'd more than likely be an early boot as an "older" contestant. Oh well.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Ignorance is not Bliss
Today while looking at Facebook, I see this posting by a "friend" (i.e. not really a personal friend, but a friend of many people do know personally for many years, so I added her as well).
"DEAR LORD, THIS YEAR YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE ACTOR, PATRICK SWAYZIE. YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE ACTRESS, FARAH FAWCETT. YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE SINGER, MICHAEL JACKSON. I JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW, MY FAVORITE PRESIDENT IS BARACK OBAMA. AMEN."
There were four comments to this posting, all saying how funny it was or how much they agree with it. I couldn't believe it. People really think its funny to wish death on someone?? They do realize that's what this post means, right?
I didn't like George Bush, but it certainly never occurred to me to wish him death, even as a joke. I am just astounded by the vitriol and antagonism that people have against Obama. I may not agree with everything Obama does, but I still respect him as a person and as our President, same as I had to do with Bush, although I liked him a lot less.
It still amazes me that some people think Obama is not a natural American citizen. Get over it! Don't you think that if that was true, it would have been confirmed way before the election and certainly before he took over the office. That there are people that still harp on this clear falsehood just goes to show (a) how stupid/uneducated so many people are in this country; and (b) how willing so many people are to spread lies in order to get their way.
And many of these people call themselves Christian too. Its just heartbreaking that people have perverted the teachings of Jesus to whatever suits their selfishness. I may not go to church every week, but I still think I lead a more Christian life than so many of these fanatics.
I suppose I shouldn't be surprise that there is so much hate going around given the 'airwaves of hate mongering' by the likes or Limbaugh and Beck. What's worse is that they know what they are doing (which makes them worse than the likes of Sarah Palin, who is just ignorant - I mean seriously, her saying she knows about Russia because she could see it from her house is like me saying I know auto mechanics because I drive a car). They prey on those that are ignorant and blissfully wish to remain so (which is almost as bad).
In this day and age, its just astounding how many people seem to want to return to the dark ages, where fear, hate and ignorance ruled the day for the few in power. Its so easy to get true information these days, although I admit one sometimes does have to wade through lies to find it. Still, anyone with a little bit of effort can find the truth. That people who have lost their jobs and suddenly find themselves with a lot of time choose to take the easy road, go to teaparty rallies and just chant along with the crowd instead of taking the available time to educate themselves as to the truth behind the issues is just sad.
I know I certainly hope that the educated, intelligent, thoughtful way prevails in our national elections for a while, so that those that willfully choose to remain uninformed will realize that ignorance is not bliss.
"DEAR LORD, THIS YEAR YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE ACTOR, PATRICK SWAYZIE. YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE ACTRESS, FARAH FAWCETT. YOU TOOK MY FAVORITE SINGER, MICHAEL JACKSON. I JUST WANTED TO LET YOU KNOW, MY FAVORITE PRESIDENT IS BARACK OBAMA. AMEN."
There were four comments to this posting, all saying how funny it was or how much they agree with it. I couldn't believe it. People really think its funny to wish death on someone?? They do realize that's what this post means, right?
I didn't like George Bush, but it certainly never occurred to me to wish him death, even as a joke. I am just astounded by the vitriol and antagonism that people have against Obama. I may not agree with everything Obama does, but I still respect him as a person and as our President, same as I had to do with Bush, although I liked him a lot less.
It still amazes me that some people think Obama is not a natural American citizen. Get over it! Don't you think that if that was true, it would have been confirmed way before the election and certainly before he took over the office. That there are people that still harp on this clear falsehood just goes to show (a) how stupid/uneducated so many people are in this country; and (b) how willing so many people are to spread lies in order to get their way.
And many of these people call themselves Christian too. Its just heartbreaking that people have perverted the teachings of Jesus to whatever suits their selfishness. I may not go to church every week, but I still think I lead a more Christian life than so many of these fanatics.
I suppose I shouldn't be surprise that there is so much hate going around given the 'airwaves of hate mongering' by the likes or Limbaugh and Beck. What's worse is that they know what they are doing (which makes them worse than the likes of Sarah Palin, who is just ignorant - I mean seriously, her saying she knows about Russia because she could see it from her house is like me saying I know auto mechanics because I drive a car). They prey on those that are ignorant and blissfully wish to remain so (which is almost as bad).
In this day and age, its just astounding how many people seem to want to return to the dark ages, where fear, hate and ignorance ruled the day for the few in power. Its so easy to get true information these days, although I admit one sometimes does have to wade through lies to find it. Still, anyone with a little bit of effort can find the truth. That people who have lost their jobs and suddenly find themselves with a lot of time choose to take the easy road, go to teaparty rallies and just chant along with the crowd instead of taking the available time to educate themselves as to the truth behind the issues is just sad.
I know I certainly hope that the educated, intelligent, thoughtful way prevails in our national elections for a while, so that those that willfully choose to remain uninformed will realize that ignorance is not bliss.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Book Review
Ok, time for more reflective posting after my work-rant. I've been through quite a few books recently, so I thought I'd share my thoughts.
"Caught" by Harlan Coben. One of my favorite authors serves up another good thriller. Got a bit unrealistic toward the end, I thought, when the viral marketing, which previously was somewhat based on truth, went quite a bit overboard. Still, it shows how the power of the internet makes a big difference in our news today. Also, a good cautionary tale to parents, how you must 'parent' your kids, not be their friend. Its one thing to allow one's kid to have a few sips of wine with dinner when their a teenager, its another to host a keg party.
"Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert. I only read this book because I had read a review of her current book, "Committed" and saw that it was about marrying a non-US Citizen and at least involved some of the wonderful dealings with the INS. Given my own interactions with him, I was curious to see what she wrote. However, it was the sequel to the prior book, so I had to read that first (I hate starting something in the middle). I liked the book, it did well showing the extremes and trying to find balance. Not reading anything by Gilbert previously, I don't know if any prior books discussed more of her marriage life, I did feel that I was missing something, the prologue to "Eat, Pray." Still, I could empathize with being on one path, only to find out it wasn't quite right and needing to change things up to find the better way. I started this book about the same time Lost returned to TV, so naturally I perked up at the whole 108 bit and wonder if the Lost writers intended the connection (of course they did). So now going to get the second book from the library.
"Best Friends Forever" by Jennifer Weiner. I really enjoyed her first couple of books. Based in Philly, main character is a lawyer and usually on the heavy side. Something to which I could relate. The plots were decent as well. However, this book was a poor effort. Very superficial and cliche. The characters were not developed well at all, especially the cop. The story line seemed very thin as well. I guess a deadline forced a very rushed book. I hope she takes her time more with the next one.
"Marley & Me" and "Longest Trip Home" by John Grogan. Another Philly writer. Great books, very funny and "Marley" is wonderful as a book, although the bit at the end takes longer to complete, so you cry more. I miss Grogan as an Inquirer writer. After reading these two, I checked out a couple of other books from the library, compilations of his Inquirer articles that were put together by the newspaper. Its a shame that they didn't consult with Grogan on these books, invited him to write a prologue or edit. I loved reading the articles again (some for the first time, as I had missed some when initially published). I recalled reading about Kate Gosslin back when she first had the sixtuplets and was a controversial person even then.
"Julie and Julia" by Julie Powell. This one is long. Yeah, another book I'm on the late train with. But probably more people saw the movie rather than read the book (I haven't yet, another habit of mine, I always try to read the book before seeing the movie). I would have liked to have read the actual blog (which I had presumed this was, a'la "Sex in the City"), but this was more of a book about the blog. I gather some portions of the blog were rewritten for the book and expanded upon, but it was clearly completely reviewed and redone after the fact and I would have been more interested in reading the process as it went along. I wonder if by really searching the internet one could find the original blog, probably not, no doubt the publisher made Julie Powell remove the blog so as not to impinge on book sales.
Anyway, as to the subject itself, I was interested because I cook from Julia Child all the time, or at least once I married a frenchman. And naturally as I'm reading it, I'm thinking, I could have done this, why didn't I think of this. Of course, I really couldn't have done this. I had interests outside of my job (other than drinking and watching TV that is, which appear to have been Julie's) so I never would have had the time to devote to finding all the esoteric ingredients and cooking all the recipes. I admit, I'm also reading this book with the knowledge that Julie Powell eventually separated from her husband and engaged in several affairs, so reading portions of the book about how great their marriage is, how annoyed she is with her philandering friend, how much she depends on Eric and appreciates his support, seem well, rather hollow in retrospect. Still, I enjoy reading about her experiences in trying to get the dishes right and struggling with eggs and aspic (which I'd never eat either, blech). If nothing else, I'm glad this book (and movie) and exist because now its easier to find certain ingredients in normal grocery stores (like marrow bones - hooray!). I've got the movie in my Netflix queue, so I'll get to it eventually. I'm not interested in reading Powell's follow-up however, I've read too many very negative reviews and frankly, the subject matter isn't all that interesting to me.
I'm currently in the middle of several other books (one in my briefcase for commuting, one by the TV for commercials, one upstairs by the bed), "Nanny Returns" by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Krause (follow-up to "The Nanny Diaries"), "Think Twice" by Lisa Scottoline, and "Divine Misdemeanors" by Laurell K Hamilton. I also started "The Audacity of Hope" by Barak Obama, which I'll return to as my commuting book (because its in paperback and lightweight) after the "Nanny" (which I borrowed). Also will be checking out "Committed" by Elizabeth Gilbert from the library probably later this week. Finally, I recently bought the last two Dick Francis books, "Silks" and "Even Money" and "My Life in France" by Julia Child. I'll report on these another time.
"Caught" by Harlan Coben. One of my favorite authors serves up another good thriller. Got a bit unrealistic toward the end, I thought, when the viral marketing, which previously was somewhat based on truth, went quite a bit overboard. Still, it shows how the power of the internet makes a big difference in our news today. Also, a good cautionary tale to parents, how you must 'parent' your kids, not be their friend. Its one thing to allow one's kid to have a few sips of wine with dinner when their a teenager, its another to host a keg party.
"Eat, Pray, Love" by Elizabeth Gilbert. I only read this book because I had read a review of her current book, "Committed" and saw that it was about marrying a non-US Citizen and at least involved some of the wonderful dealings with the INS. Given my own interactions with him, I was curious to see what she wrote. However, it was the sequel to the prior book, so I had to read that first (I hate starting something in the middle). I liked the book, it did well showing the extremes and trying to find balance. Not reading anything by Gilbert previously, I don't know if any prior books discussed more of her marriage life, I did feel that I was missing something, the prologue to "Eat, Pray." Still, I could empathize with being on one path, only to find out it wasn't quite right and needing to change things up to find the better way. I started this book about the same time Lost returned to TV, so naturally I perked up at the whole 108 bit and wonder if the Lost writers intended the connection (of course they did). So now going to get the second book from the library.
"Best Friends Forever" by Jennifer Weiner. I really enjoyed her first couple of books. Based in Philly, main character is a lawyer and usually on the heavy side. Something to which I could relate. The plots were decent as well. However, this book was a poor effort. Very superficial and cliche. The characters were not developed well at all, especially the cop. The story line seemed very thin as well. I guess a deadline forced a very rushed book. I hope she takes her time more with the next one.
"Marley & Me" and "Longest Trip Home" by John Grogan. Another Philly writer. Great books, very funny and "Marley" is wonderful as a book, although the bit at the end takes longer to complete, so you cry more. I miss Grogan as an Inquirer writer. After reading these two, I checked out a couple of other books from the library, compilations of his Inquirer articles that were put together by the newspaper. Its a shame that they didn't consult with Grogan on these books, invited him to write a prologue or edit. I loved reading the articles again (some for the first time, as I had missed some when initially published). I recalled reading about Kate Gosslin back when she first had the sixtuplets and was a controversial person even then.
"Julie and Julia" by Julie Powell. This one is long. Yeah, another book I'm on the late train with. But probably more people saw the movie rather than read the book (I haven't yet, another habit of mine, I always try to read the book before seeing the movie). I would have liked to have read the actual blog (which I had presumed this was, a'la "Sex in the City"), but this was more of a book about the blog. I gather some portions of the blog were rewritten for the book and expanded upon, but it was clearly completely reviewed and redone after the fact and I would have been more interested in reading the process as it went along. I wonder if by really searching the internet one could find the original blog, probably not, no doubt the publisher made Julie Powell remove the blog so as not to impinge on book sales.
Anyway, as to the subject itself, I was interested because I cook from Julia Child all the time, or at least once I married a frenchman. And naturally as I'm reading it, I'm thinking, I could have done this, why didn't I think of this. Of course, I really couldn't have done this. I had interests outside of my job (other than drinking and watching TV that is, which appear to have been Julie's) so I never would have had the time to devote to finding all the esoteric ingredients and cooking all the recipes. I admit, I'm also reading this book with the knowledge that Julie Powell eventually separated from her husband and engaged in several affairs, so reading portions of the book about how great their marriage is, how annoyed she is with her philandering friend, how much she depends on Eric and appreciates his support, seem well, rather hollow in retrospect. Still, I enjoy reading about her experiences in trying to get the dishes right and struggling with eggs and aspic (which I'd never eat either, blech). If nothing else, I'm glad this book (and movie) and exist because now its easier to find certain ingredients in normal grocery stores (like marrow bones - hooray!). I've got the movie in my Netflix queue, so I'll get to it eventually. I'm not interested in reading Powell's follow-up however, I've read too many very negative reviews and frankly, the subject matter isn't all that interesting to me.
I'm currently in the middle of several other books (one in my briefcase for commuting, one by the TV for commercials, one upstairs by the bed), "Nanny Returns" by Emma McLaughlin and Nicola Krause (follow-up to "The Nanny Diaries"), "Think Twice" by Lisa Scottoline, and "Divine Misdemeanors" by Laurell K Hamilton. I also started "The Audacity of Hope" by Barak Obama, which I'll return to as my commuting book (because its in paperback and lightweight) after the "Nanny" (which I borrowed). Also will be checking out "Committed" by Elizabeth Gilbert from the library probably later this week. Finally, I recently bought the last two Dick Francis books, "Silks" and "Even Money" and "My Life in France" by Julia Child. I'll report on these another time.
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Kids and Law Don't Mix
I'm ranting hard today because one of the partners in my law office was annoyed because I deemed to question incredulously why there was even a question as to whether I was coming in this morning because me and another attorney were switching offices. My secretary is calling me at 8:45 because I hadn't yet gotten to my office this morning, I was only about 10 minutes away. Because I ask why it was even an issue, this partner thinks I'm disrespecting him because he thought maybe I wasn't coming in because I don't come in on (most) school holidays and snow days. I'm sorry, was today a holiday? Was there snow? No. So why was it even a question?
You know, law schools need to put out a bulletin that says "Attention Women: If You Ever Plan on Having Kids, Don't Be A Lawyer" or at least, don't be one if you have to work for someone else. I have yet to work at any office where there was real understanding to the female lawyer with kids. Fortunately, the partner I work directly for understands, but unfortunately, he's probably not going to be practicing all that many more years (maybe 5 I'm guessing), the other name partner, whom most of the associates work under, isn't quite so understanding.
It just fucking annoys the hell out of me that lawyer bosses cannot realize that some people believe there is more to life than sitting in a god damn office all day and all night long. That some people, women especially, believe that its better to actually see their children awake more than just a few hours on a weekend.
I work my butt off when I'm in the office, I take work home, I fucking bill my god damn 200+ billable hours almost every month and still I get bitched at because I'm not in the office by 8:00 a.m. every single day. Well excuse me for being the only lawyer in this office to either have young kids, or not have a stay at home wife to take care of the kids. I have all these issues and I still bill more that most of the other attorneys in this office. So shut the fuck up!
Yeah, I don't come in on most holidays and the occasional snow day. Its not my fault that we had five snow days this year because we had Snowmaggeddon. And one of those days, I did come into the office, but I had to bring my kids in too. They all really loved that.
Yes, I do have a backup person who can babysit my kids. But she had to have fucking brain surgery in January so she's a little out of things for a while and couldn't babysit them during the Snowpocalypse. Like I'm supposed to expect that and find yet another person? Someone who's home all day and that I can trust and that lives close by? Excuse me for not having family around at my beck and call. Excuse me for having a husband that works full time too and has even less flexibility in his work hours than I do.
I'm just pissed off that I am doing more than is even expected of me (I was hired with the expectation of 180 hours a month and I bill more that 200 nearly every month), and its still not enough because the fucking partner doesn't see my face 10 hours day. I'm pissed off that virtually every partner I've ever worked for has these stupid fucking ego trips that they are god and are never wrong and everyone has to bow down before their greatness and you can't express any different opinion.
Its a good thing I like the one partner I do work for and he likes me. Cause I don't know if I could stand working for this other one. Frankly, I know I couldn't stand to work for him. I hate being micro-managed. Hopefully, the partner I work for will continue to work for a long time, at least long enough that this other partner will recognize that I do just as good of work, if not better than others, even with my other time commitments and leave me the fuck alone to do it.
You know, law schools need to put out a bulletin that says "Attention Women: If You Ever Plan on Having Kids, Don't Be A Lawyer" or at least, don't be one if you have to work for someone else. I have yet to work at any office where there was real understanding to the female lawyer with kids. Fortunately, the partner I work directly for understands, but unfortunately, he's probably not going to be practicing all that many more years (maybe 5 I'm guessing), the other name partner, whom most of the associates work under, isn't quite so understanding.
It just fucking annoys the hell out of me that lawyer bosses cannot realize that some people believe there is more to life than sitting in a god damn office all day and all night long. That some people, women especially, believe that its better to actually see their children awake more than just a few hours on a weekend.
I work my butt off when I'm in the office, I take work home, I fucking bill my god damn 200+ billable hours almost every month and still I get bitched at because I'm not in the office by 8:00 a.m. every single day. Well excuse me for being the only lawyer in this office to either have young kids, or not have a stay at home wife to take care of the kids. I have all these issues and I still bill more that most of the other attorneys in this office. So shut the fuck up!
Yeah, I don't come in on most holidays and the occasional snow day. Its not my fault that we had five snow days this year because we had Snowmaggeddon. And one of those days, I did come into the office, but I had to bring my kids in too. They all really loved that.
Yes, I do have a backup person who can babysit my kids. But she had to have fucking brain surgery in January so she's a little out of things for a while and couldn't babysit them during the Snowpocalypse. Like I'm supposed to expect that and find yet another person? Someone who's home all day and that I can trust and that lives close by? Excuse me for not having family around at my beck and call. Excuse me for having a husband that works full time too and has even less flexibility in his work hours than I do.
I'm just pissed off that I am doing more than is even expected of me (I was hired with the expectation of 180 hours a month and I bill more that 200 nearly every month), and its still not enough because the fucking partner doesn't see my face 10 hours day. I'm pissed off that virtually every partner I've ever worked for has these stupid fucking ego trips that they are god and are never wrong and everyone has to bow down before their greatness and you can't express any different opinion.
Its a good thing I like the one partner I do work for and he likes me. Cause I don't know if I could stand working for this other one. Frankly, I know I couldn't stand to work for him. I hate being micro-managed. Hopefully, the partner I work for will continue to work for a long time, at least long enough that this other partner will recognize that I do just as good of work, if not better than others, even with my other time commitments and leave me the fuck alone to do it.
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Music Obsession Pt. 3 - Muse
Its time for another edition of Music Obsession. This episode is about Muse, my latest major interest. I only heard about Muse, oh maybe a year or so ago, followed someone's link to Supermassive Black Hole and I loved the song. From that I watched videos of other songs they did and everyone I saw was great. Shortly thereafter, I bought several of their CDs and I've been listening to them almost non-stop on my ipod. The lyrics are good, the music fantastic. Reminds me of great bands like Queen and Rush.
I'm really surprised that they are apparently not all that big here in the US (the band is from the UK), although they are gaining more popularity (Twilight probably helped a lot). Recently, they played Philadelphia. I would have loved to have gone, but couldn't find anyone to go with me, none of my friends had heard of the band (even referencing Twilight only brought a "oh yeah, I think so" recall). All my friends still listen mostly to older music from the 80s and 90s, and while I still like that music too, I am open to newer singers and bands, at least when I can find them.
Frankly, its a bit harder than it used to be. The radio stations around here pretty much only play 'older' rock music (not even stuff like Linkin Park, 311 or Offspring, for that matter, that have been around for 10 years or so), and stations that player "newer" music concentrate on either rap, dance, or other Top-40 type songs (and while I do like some of those, like Lady Gaga, most really aren't my cup of tea). I haven't found a station like KROQ in LA, that plays new rock/alternative music. MTV used to introduce me to a lot of new music, but they haven't played music videos in nearly a decade or so.
So most of the time, the way I find out about new music is hit and miss. Sometimes through movies, or linking from a variety of websites (like how I found Muse), or through American Idol (both with singers that emerge from the show and the singers/bands they have on the show). Its even hard sometimes to find out when bands I already know and like put out a new album. It seems to me that radio doesn't keep people updated on music much anymore, certainly not like it did when I was young. I guess radio figures there are other ways to find out information (i.e. the internet), so it doesn't do it anymore. Still, I'd love to find a radio station that plays newer rock music. I've started using Facebook to "fan" various singers/bands and hoping that way I'll keep more up to date on music I like, what new albums or videos are out.
I expect Muse to be around for a while. I'll just have to get my friends (and husband) to listen to them so I can go to the concert next time. I haven't been much up on going to concerts lately. I've only been to two since moving to Philly, Rush and the Who. Rush was good, but it was an outdoor, general admission type show, and we were way way in the back and even with the video screens, it was hard to see. I liked the Who, but tbh, I was a little disappointed. The concert was shorter than I expected and a lot of songs I liked weren't played. Still, we had great seats (though pricey) and had a good time. I'm really looking forward to seeing a concert with a newer act, to see if anyone can top some of the best concerts I've seen, like Queen and NIN (both visually stunning, in completely different ways). Frankly, I'd love to see Lady Gaga in concert, but somehow I think finding someone to go with me to that show will be a lot harder.
I just pray that my kids grow up with good taste in music and don't fall for manufactured boy bands or a Brittany clone.
I'm really surprised that they are apparently not all that big here in the US (the band is from the UK), although they are gaining more popularity (Twilight probably helped a lot). Recently, they played Philadelphia. I would have loved to have gone, but couldn't find anyone to go with me, none of my friends had heard of the band (even referencing Twilight only brought a "oh yeah, I think so" recall). All my friends still listen mostly to older music from the 80s and 90s, and while I still like that music too, I am open to newer singers and bands, at least when I can find them.
Frankly, its a bit harder than it used to be. The radio stations around here pretty much only play 'older' rock music (not even stuff like Linkin Park, 311 or Offspring, for that matter, that have been around for 10 years or so), and stations that player "newer" music concentrate on either rap, dance, or other Top-40 type songs (and while I do like some of those, like Lady Gaga, most really aren't my cup of tea). I haven't found a station like KROQ in LA, that plays new rock/alternative music. MTV used to introduce me to a lot of new music, but they haven't played music videos in nearly a decade or so.
So most of the time, the way I find out about new music is hit and miss. Sometimes through movies, or linking from a variety of websites (like how I found Muse), or through American Idol (both with singers that emerge from the show and the singers/bands they have on the show). Its even hard sometimes to find out when bands I already know and like put out a new album. It seems to me that radio doesn't keep people updated on music much anymore, certainly not like it did when I was young. I guess radio figures there are other ways to find out information (i.e. the internet), so it doesn't do it anymore. Still, I'd love to find a radio station that plays newer rock music. I've started using Facebook to "fan" various singers/bands and hoping that way I'll keep more up to date on music I like, what new albums or videos are out.
I expect Muse to be around for a while. I'll just have to get my friends (and husband) to listen to them so I can go to the concert next time. I haven't been much up on going to concerts lately. I've only been to two since moving to Philly, Rush and the Who. Rush was good, but it was an outdoor, general admission type show, and we were way way in the back and even with the video screens, it was hard to see. I liked the Who, but tbh, I was a little disappointed. The concert was shorter than I expected and a lot of songs I liked weren't played. Still, we had great seats (though pricey) and had a good time. I'm really looking forward to seeing a concert with a newer act, to see if anyone can top some of the best concerts I've seen, like Queen and NIN (both visually stunning, in completely different ways). Frankly, I'd love to see Lady Gaga in concert, but somehow I think finding someone to go with me to that show will be a lot harder.
I just pray that my kids grow up with good taste in music and don't fall for manufactured boy bands or a Brittany clone.
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