Things I've Loved This Decade (Pt. 1)

I cannot believe we're entering a new decade! I've taken some time to look back at the last ten years and have come up with this list of pop culture things that I have loved (some of them I could not live without). Note: this list is not a ranking - just how I have remembered them. Also, my only criteria was that I must love them as much today as when I first saw them. Feel free to let me know what you have loved - and what I may have missed!

Part one looks at my favorite TV shows.

30 Rock

Full Disclosure: I wish Tina Fey was my sister. That said, I know that each episode of this show will make me laugh. I may not laugh at everything that is said. I admit there is one character (who shall remain nameless) that I could do without. But this show has been funny since day one. Love it. Love the reruns. Love.

Breaking Bad

Before you watch that clip, you should know that it is one of the most disgusting things I've seen on television. Now, when I saw that during season one, I knew that this show was going places no show on cable has gone before. Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul leave me on the edge of my seat each episode - will they get caught? Will they get killed? Will they blow themselves up making methamphetamine? I don't know. I just wish AMC would make its seasons longer so I don't have to wait until summer to find out!

Chappelle's Show

Wow. Dave Chappelle is crazy! And funny! It's too bad he got spooked by the fame because this show could have gone on for a very long time. Maybe it'll come back in some form (maybe a regular special?). Until then, I'll just have to watch clips like that one on line.

Curb Your Enthusiasm

If you're at work or are around children, you probably shouldn't play that clip. Let me say, I love HBO. Love that language is not an issue. Love that there are no commercials for me to forward through. And Larry David - I mean, he's the kind of guy you'd punch in the face and only invite over if you wanted to see your Grandpa get angry. Still, watching him on TV each Sunday makes me happy. And a bit Tourrettey.

The Daily Show

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart	Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c
Fox News Fear Imbalance
www.thedailyshow.com
Daily Show Full Episodes Political Humor Health Care Crisis

I get that this is not REAL news. I just wish you could call the batshitcrazypeople on their nonsense. I mean, you can't go around attacking people for questioning the President's actions, then go on the attack when your team loses. You can't call yourself "fair and balanced" when you have no idea how to pull that off. I also love that Jon Stewart challenges all news outlets - and points out the silliness that is often mistaken for news when it is not. It shouldn't take a comedian to get news people to sit back and question what they're about to do. But it does. And that makes me giggle.

Damages

That's a preview for season three. If you haven't seen the first two seasons, I'll say this: Glenn Close scares the bejeezus out of me & Ted Danson is a big creep. OK - not them actually, but their characters - wow! And every other actor on this show is fantastic. I cannot look away from this show! I hate that it is only on for a few months at the beginning of the year. But it is scary good. Promise. I can't even watch it before bed because then I have nightmares about Patty coming after me.

Dancing With The Stars
OK. No video clip here. If you're rolling your eyes out of disappointment at me, it's OK. I thought this show would never last. Now, I find myself crossing my fingers before they announce who'll star on the show each season, hoping it's someone from a show that I used to watch but haven't seen in years. I admit to having stopped work just to vote for some has-been over another. It's fun. And the fact that Bruno Tonioli mumbles nonsense each week makes me laugh. So there.

Dexter

Nastiest show open. Ever. When I see that, it makes my stomach churn. Then, I remember how much I love this serial killer and his crazy ways. I mean, how can you NOT love a guy who's only killing people who deserve it (pedophiles, drug dealers and other criminals). Look. I'm from Texas. We kill the bad guys. Deal. Oh, please don't talk about the current season - I'm waiting for it to be available on DVD (I don't have Showtime - besides, I like spending an entire weekend watching the uninterrupted season).

Entourage

I don't care about Vincent Chase and his boys. I care about Ari & Lloyd. If these two were to have smaller parts, I'd stop watching. The douchebags aren't that funny. The relationship between Ari & Lloyd always gets a laugh out of me. Can't say so much for Vince and the boys.

Footballers Wives

Know what I love about BBC? The fact that they know not to keep a show on the air for year after year until every last viewer is turned away. This series was naughty fun. I couldn't help but tune into this soap opera. The acting is not great. But they end each season with definitive answers. (Hello, American TV writers - give that a shot)

Friday Night Lights

You don't have to love football to love this show. Trust me. I don't LOVE football. I do love this show. It almost makes me wish I had DirecTV so I didn't have to wait until spring to watch it! I find myself rooting for this make-believe team each week. They must be doing something right!

Glee

Glee – Kristin Chenoweth – The Rhodes Not Taken – Gleecap Videos MP3 - Watch more Videos at Vodpod.

If ever there was a show that is perfect for little Kristin Chenoweth and her big voice, it's this one. At first, I rolled my eyes, thinking this was a show for kids. Then, I gave it a shot. Hooked from the very first song! Even if you don't love musicals, you must watch it for Jane Lynch! Her snappy, crude remarks make me laugh out loud (and maybe it's because it often sounds like something I would say).

How I Met Your Mother

Truth: I don't care how Ted meets his baby mama. I find his character whining and annoying. I love every one else - especially Neil Patrick Harris as Barney. This show is a pop culture hit! I'll go so far as to call it my generation's "Seinfeld." So there!

Lost
I can't show you a clip of this show without it spoiling something. I have to say, from the second I saw that plane crash on the island, I had to know why they were there and how would they get back home? I am so happy ABC and the people behind this smart show decided on an end date. It has given this show direction. I know that each week they are answering questions and leaving a few more out there. I only hope in its last season, this show leaves me satisfied. If not, ABC owes me a trip to Hawaii.

Mad Men

Of all the scenes I could have included, this one made me rewind and say "OH MY GOD!" This show is like a little movie each week. My Sundays are not the same without it. It makes me want to drink - and for all the right reasons. The attention to detail is amazing. It is dark. It is sad. It is funny. It is one of the best shows on TV - maybe ever.

Modern Family

Just when I was about to give up on ABC (I mean, a show about a Cougar - really? What's next, a show called "How I Got My Vagina Ready For My Teenage Boyfriend?" Ugh.), they come at me with this show. This ensemble cast is so funny! Each week, I never know which character I'll love most. And I like that! Politically correct? No. But funny.

Parks & Recreation

You may have written off this show with its abbreviated first season. I hung in there for season two because Amy Poehler has always made me laugh. This episode is one of my favorites - from the silly rap at the beginning to the very awkward end. And that is how each episode goes. Silly fun!

Sex & The City

The opening let guys know this is clearly not a show for them (unless they favor high heels, trendy clubs and sex - lots and lots of sex). I saw beyond that. I saw four ladies trying to find their identities. Ladies trying not to live up to the lives others thought they should want. Fellas, you can make all the comments you want. HBO never wanted you to watch this one. It gave you plenty of other options.

The Office

There is not a single character on this show that doesn't make me laugh at some point (though it's not every week that everyone gets me). The last year hasn't been as funny as the previous seasons, but it has picked up again. It makes me laugh. It makes me glad I don't work in an office like that (I mean, my office is not perfect, but I have never found my desk materials in the vending machine or found my belongings in jello - yet). I also give this show credit for offering extras on its website (the webisodes are always fun to watch, especially when the show's in reruns).

The Middle

I'm not gonna lie - I love little, weird Brick the most. I love that he reminds me of a miniature Pee Wee Herman. I love that he whispers to comfort himself. I love that he pets ketchup packets for comfort, too (think about it - squeezing those packets without having them explode is calming - like a stressball). The show tries to be Every Family. I promise you, if every family in America was like this, Child Protective Services would not be able to keep up.

The Sopranos

This show had me until the very end. I loved every potty-mouth-filled episode. Then came the finale. Spoiler alert: fading to black is NOT an ending! I need to know what happened! Did they get arrested? Did they die? Did they keep up their mafia ways and manage to keep the law at arms length? I want answers. So unless you're gonna tell me how it ends, save your "It was the perfect show ending" remarks. Jerk.

The Wire

If you haven't watched an episode of this show, you might not want to watch the video. If you've seen it, watching those clips will make you wish HBO would bring this series back. I have to say, I loved David Simon's "Homicide" when it was on NBC. That's why I checked out this series. And I can't wait to see the next series he's rolling out in 2010. His shows have a way of making you love and despise the characters - who are all flawed. I love that they're not perfect. They're real. I hate to see them go.

The West Wing

There was nothing about that opening sequence that did not make me feel like I was getting a peek into the White House each week. Yes, this show started in 1999, but it finished well into the next century. It made politics fun to watch. Can't say I get that much pleasure from cable news. It tackled real topics. It was balanced. The final season with its election story line was a true cliff-hanger. More shows should be as well written and produced. Viewers might stick around and watch more network TV if that happened.

Honorable Mention: Bravo
That's right. I'm naming this silly network, with its reruns of NBC shows mixed in with original reality programs. I cannot choose one city's "Real Housewives" over another because they are all over the top and trashtastic! I won't choose my favorite chef or gay house-flipper, either. When I can't find anything to watch, I turn to this network. It keeps me glued to my sofa. And I don't feel bad about it at all. Well, at least, not until I realize I haven't left my house all day.

2009 In Review

I'm working on my own look back at the decade, but I'll let the fine folks from JibJab sum up the last year.

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Week in Pop Culture

Britney Spears has a sense of humor, y'all!

I know Nicole Kidman wants to be known for her work, not her Scientology-loving-ex-husband, but this is a bit odd.

Jessica Simpson sticks things in her ears.

Carrie Underwood is engaged to a hockey player who appears to have all his teeth.

Catherine Zeta-Jones wants people to come see her Broadway show. Desperately.

Wow. I thought I had issues with Christmas. Ozzy is beyond Scrooge.

Even models take a stand against high heels.

I never did get this coupling - on TV or in real life.

Soon, you'll be able to smell just like Eva Longoria Parker.

Kim Kardashian makes eating a salad seem naughty.

Steven Tyler is in rehab (not sure if he gets something free this time).Oh, and if you still care about Aerosmith, he's staying with them.

This is a REAL surprise (no sarcasm - honest): Susan Sarandon & Tim Robbins have split!

Beneath all that makeup and boobage, Pamela Anderson is really not that special.

Same goes for Marilyn Manson.

Do you follow Kim Kardashian on Twitter? You should probably know she makes $10,000 per tweet when she mentions businesses. Yeah. I'm mad, too. Still not following her.

Oh, I'll see this - even though it may make me a bit angry.

Sex and the City 2 in HD

Trailer Park | MySpace Video

Week in Pop Culture

This could make me stalk Hugh Jackman. But I won't because that's a crime. Right?

If you believe Tara Reid's pictures in Playboy are not photoshopped to death, I'd like you to help me collect some lottery winnings in the UK.

A very smart judge decided Courtney Love should not be in charge of her daughter. Then, Courtney took herself out of the "Mom of The Year" contest.

Not sure if Rihanna is acting out or just desperate for attention. Why else would a girl who can sing feel the need to take off her clothes?

Speaking of needing attention... John Mayer says he's "taking a break from dating." So ladies, don't go throwing your parts at him because he's not interested.

Here's a VERY special "Brady" episode.

I think Madonna's work has settled nicely in her face.

I had no idea Lady GaGa's songs had such deep meaning.

This article points out Nicole Kidman's make-up malfunction. I can't stop wondering how many cutlets she has stuffed into the dress.

I'm not even sure who this woman is, but OMG - her behind is ginormous!

Finally, here's a little holiday cheer. Enjoy!

I Want A New Drug

Huey Lewis - New Music - More Music Videos

Yes. I want a new drug. Maybe not one that makes me want to sing (trust me on that). But I want one that doesn't creep me out. Scratch that. I want a drug ad that doesn't make me yell at the TV. In case I haven't mentioned this, or you're new to my blog, I have TV Tourettes - I tend to shout things at the screen when people annoy me.

Let me give you a few examples. Maybe you've seen this lady:
She has wicked heartburn and she's on her first date with that guy. Now, I don't know if it's the fact that she's not wearing a bra or has a scarf on inside a restaurant or that the guy looks like George Hamilton's fair-skinned brother, but I see all kinds of things that don't look right here. I'd be more concerned about the heartburn than whether this date is going well. Is she? Nope. She, like a lady in a silly romantic comedy, seems to have worried so much about this date (I'll call him Mr. Pocket Scarf) is going to be the one. SPOILER ALERT: She takes the drug, he, in fact, is The One. Well, her Second One. Yep. At the end, she becomes Mrs. Pocket Scarf. Oh, and he's her SECOND husband.

The next ad also features ladies. This one has a group of "girlfriends" sitting around, first talking about how much they love a previous birth control commercial. Then, they talk about this particular brand and how great it is. Let me tell you something: WOMEN DO NOT LOVE THESE COMMERCIALS. I mean, I suppose there is some woman who loves it (surely they consulted women while making this ad). But I think that woman is the same one who gets excited about the feminine product ads. Freakshow. Stay away from her. Women may be faithful to their birth control, but unless one of our friends is having lady troubles, we are not sitting around at TV raving about the ads. We might make suggestions, but let's face it. It is just a monthly reminder that God is a man. I will believe that until there is a male birth control that guys will actually take. Wait. That might be an ad I'd watch.

This is the last ad I'll talk about.

Here's what bugs me about it: these people could be my parents. Now, I understand things happen when you get older (I am learning this first-hand every day). However, I refuse to acknowledge that my parents or your parents have sex. Ick. Put these ads on during shows that appeal to these people, not during my non-sensical sitcoms or during the news.

Now, I do give the drug companies credit. They tend to use nice music and show beautiful scenery. In fact, if not for the warnings that you could have a heart attack, stroke, diarrhea, nausea, sudden death, I might enjoy the ads if they played back to back on some channel. But please stop trying to speak to me like you're my friend. We're not. If we were friends, I'd get a box full of fun pills for Christmas wrapped in all that cash you're making. Until then, kindly knock it off.

Week in Pop Culture

I so love Jason Segel on HIMYM. If pictures are telling this story correctly, he is certain to have an STD now. So he loses points in my book.

The ONLY way I would consider watching the "Dallas" reboot is if the originals came back. Even then, I'm iffy.

Lady GaGa met the Queen and she, um, dressed up?

I'm beginning to worry about Jessica Simpson's taste in men. Just a little.

Look, I get that pop stars rarely sing live. But if you're gonna do it, make sure you're holding the microphone from the right end.

DWTS' Joanna Krupa is sharing too much (and it's not just in the form of pictures).

OH NO! That "Bonnie Hunt Show" is going off the air and I haven't seen a single episode!

Gary Busey is going to be a dad. Hope he doesn't tell the kid to "speak into the microphone, squid brain!"

Gisele Bundchen is no longer fat. Oh, and she's a mom.

Hmmm... this review calls "MacGruber" the best SNL movie since "Wayne's World."

Not sure Mariah Carey knows how to kiss her Boy Toy/hubbie.

Wendy Williams (an alleged "talk show host) had to tell her kid about her breast implants after she talked about them on her show. Funny. I thought she was a dude.

Note to Chris Brown: No one wants to buy your music. Stop blaming stores and labels. You're a douche.

One of my favorite kooky shows has been canceled. :(

You're Welcome?

Is this gayer than Lady GaGa's version of "Poker Face?"

You decide.

Holiday Favorites

I've been trying to get in the holiday spirit, but since it feels like Christmas has been taunting me since mid-October, it's hard to still be excited about the season. To try to get me to be a little more jolly than the grinch, I've been hunting down holiday movies. Here are some of my favorites that always bring a smile (or even a tear) each time.

A Christmas Story

I have seen this so many times I can say the lines as I watch it. I blame TBS for that. I mean, is it necessary to run this for 24 hours? Don't get me wrong, my TV always finds it and, though I may not see it in its entirety in one sitting, I will see enough parts of it during that time to have seen every scene. In case you've never had the privilege of this one, it's about a boy who wants a Red Ryder BB Gun (he'll shoot his eye out - but he'll be OK). Lots of silly family things happen to make us all realize it's not the holidays if your family doesn't show off its crazy. When he was younger, my cousin Paul looked like Ralphie. We keep threatening to get him a pink bunny costume one of these years. He's a good sport. He'll wear it. I'll post pictures.

Bad Santa

OK. Billy Bob Thornton is not the guy I'd pick to play Santa (he's real, kids - the ones you see in the mall are his helpers, even if they smell like booze). I mean, he's just weird. But this movie is so wrong, it's right. He's the naughtiest of naughty. He cusses. He drinks. He insults kids. He steals. He has s-e-x in the Santa costume. As disturbing as all that is, it makes me laugh. Listen, the day I have the money for a fancy "spa" (AKA rehab), I'll go there. Until then, back off. Does he get in the real holiday spirit? You'll just have to watch it to find out.

Charlie Brown Christmas

How can you go wrong with Charlie Brown? He's looking for the true meaning of Christmas - something I struggle with every year. Seriously, stores. Stop shoving the holidays down my throat before I've had time to overdose on candy corn! I don't know why this song is both beautiful and tragic, but I cannot get through the season without listening to it. Plus, there's the whole sad tree thing. It's a little bit of tree discrimination, forcing people to abandon the skinny trees on the lots for the one full of sticky needles. Wait... is this one of the few times fatties are celebrated?

Elf

This might be my favorite Will Farrell movie. He plays Buddy The Elf, a man-boy who learns he was adopted and raised by elves (not the Tolkien kind - the kind that work as little toy slaves for Santa). He finds his father, who's a bit of a jerk, and proceeds to spread holiday cheer in his own special way in New York City. Funny and sweet. Just how I like my holiday movies!

Emmet Otter's Jug-Band Christmas

What could be cuter than a couple of otters trying to win a talent contest so they can win money to buy gifts? Wait, sounds VERY Brady-like. Whatever. These hillbilly critters are cute and sing catchy tunes. This one doesn't get much play, though it should. If you haven't seen it, rent it. Or search for it on youtube.

Holiday Inn

Surprise! This one takes place at an inn (not that chain hotel - not even the Express ones) that is open for the holidays. Fred Astaire and Bing Crosy star in this one, which was the first time anyone heard "White Christmas." Music and dancing? Yeah, that's a holiday movie!

Home Alone

Family goes on vacation to Paris, leaves behind 8-year-old boy. He's one resourceful kid, figuring out how to eat without burning down the house and defends his home from two of the dumbest burglars to ever set foot on a movie set. Just when you start to feel sorry for the kid, who thinks he's been completely forgotten by his family (who can't seem to get back to him quickly), you realize he'll be just fine. And that's when I think it's not so bad that I have to work on the holidays.

Love Actually

If you know me, you know that I am not a fan of the romantic comedy. This one, I love. These people have problems (some bigger than others). But the one thing they all want for Christmas: to be happy and in, if they're really lucky, with the ones they love. It's told in several different stories and each one is special. I could watch this any time of year, but it is a holiday movie. Yep, I cry here, too.

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

This is another one you can't miss on TV between Thanksgiving and New Year's (though I did find it on cable during the summer and still watched it). I have most of this memorized, from the tree chopping beginning to the rant and holiday ending. It's funny. It makes me think of my grandparents. It also makes me glad all of my family is not trapped in one house. It would not end like this. Trust me.
The Muppet Christmas Carol
What makes this better than the old black and white version? Duh. Muppets! It's right there in the title!

Planes, Trains & Automobiles

Alright, this one is actually about Thanksgiving, but it still has that "getting home to the family for the holidays" vibe. It also has a few other things going for it: starring Steve Martin and the late, great John Candy and it's directed by John Hughes. It has made me not wanted to travel the day before a holiday ever unless it's by car. Also, those aren't pillows.

White Christmas

I know, this one is like "Holiday Inn." But this has more romantic comedy than the other one. Same song (look, it's Bing Crosby's world, we all just live in it). I don't watch this one every year, but every time I catch it, it makes me want to sing - so be glad it's not in my rotation.

Did I leave anything out? It's possible. My mind is not as young as it used to be.

Bunny Reindeer

I love the bunnies! They're so talented!!

Week in Pop Culture

Go ahead. Look at these pictures and tell me they're a) not photo shopped or b) not at all the result of a diet drug or c) the result of some creative spray tanning.

Mark Paul Gosselaar can't catch a break. Maybe I should have watched that show. Nope. There's no way it was as good as "Saved By The Bell."

I refuse to get on board with the "Yogi Bear" movie.

I absolutely ♥ Alec Baldwin on "30 Rock." If he really and truly gets out of entertainment after that show, I might cry. Or buy the DVDs so I can always get a giggle.

Here's why you should NOT call Anthony Michael Hall "Farmer Ted."

Just when I was thinking ABC has finally hit its comedic stride, I read this.

I know I've made fun of Jessica Simpson before (um, have you read her quotes or seen her in mom jeans?), but I honestly don't get why this dress had bloggers saying she's "curvy" (that's the nice word I've seen).

Cindy Crawford has used Botox. I thought it was her skin care line that made her face look awesome?

Mr. Big is not so big.

That mom from "Family Ties" likes the ladies.

Pretty good news for "Ugly Betty!"

You can hate her because she's dating George Clooney or you can hate her because she looks like this.

A few years ago, I never would have thought I'd say this: Happy 28th Birthday, Britney! Oh, and if you are looking for more bikini links, here's a Britney bikini parade.

Hey! Look what I found: Lady GaGa looking and sounding normal! Someone owes me $20!

In Rihanna's defense, not many people like being frisked at the airport.

*GASP* The scandal! Taylor Swift nearly naked!

And because I refrained from linking you to Tiger Woods stories today, I'm giving you a link to some Tiger fun.
Enjoy!

You Can't Control The Story

Tiger Woods, I'm not just talking to you. I'm talking to anyone in the spotlight - celebrity, politician or ordinary person who makes it onto the news every now and then. If you think you want to be famous, or already are, there are some things you should know.

Don't Play Perfect
You cannot put images like this on your website and not expect people to think, "Aw! Look at them. Beautiful couple, adorable children, cute dogs. They look so happy!" But it doesn't end there. People wonder if you're really that happy. More people wonder how real your life is. You were in control here. At least you thought you were.

Don't Lie To The Press
Call us vultures, creeps or anything else. Trust me. We've heard it all before. But the bottom line is, if we hear rumors, we're going to check them out.

If we suspect you aren't being truthful, we will keep digging until we find the truth - or at least what sounds more reasonable than the story you're spinning.

Who would have thought this family might have some real problems?
Perfect little political family? Not so much.

When your husband (who happens to be the Governor of South Carolina) disappears, you can't expect people to believe he'd leave those cute kids on Father's Day weekend to get some peace and quiet and work. Oh, and saying he's "hiking the Appalachian trail" on a weekend when naked hikers are taking to the trail doesn't make the media stop asking questions. Let's face it, Mrs. Sanford. You had to know your husband was with another woman. Flights to South America aren't like a quick jaunt to the pay-by-the-hour motel to meet a mistress. I'm sorry you had to go through all of this publicly, but you helped cover it up. While you've dumped your dead weight husband, good luck with your book/clothing line - or whatever else will help you support your lovely children.

Keeping Silent Won't Get You Out Of The News
David Letterman is a man who treasures his privacy. You rarely see photos of him with his family. When scandal came knocking, he knew he had to do what many men before him had not had the courage (or wits) to do: fess up!

He admitted he had relationships with women on his staff. He explained there was a blackmail plot. He apologized to his wife. All in front of an audience and television cameras. He did it before millions of people. It was obviously a very difficult thing for him to do - not just because of what happened but because he knew there was no way for it to be swept under the rug (after all, criminal charges are public record).

Did he have to do that?

No.

Did he keep this story from being fodder for weeks on end?

Yes.

Sure, people still talk about it. They will at least until this case is resolved in the courts. Are people paying closer to Dave's marriage or relationship with co-workers? Absolutely. But after that confession, it almost feels like he'd let us know if he messed up again. And it seems like he'd be sorry then, too.

Lessons Learned
Don't put yourself out there and not expect people to want to bring you down. It's too easy for bloggers (like myself) or tabloids to spend time looking for ways to prove you're not the person we see. But if you know there is the potential for scandal, speaking up before the writers start digging could be the difference between coming out of this like Letterman, or people shaking their heads at you like many are with Tiger.

Go ahead. Say it's none of our business. I agree that what happens between a husband and wife should be kept between them. But when you're in the public light and you appear to have a falling out (come on - who believe Elin smashed the back window of that SUV to pull Tiger out of the car after seeing there was no damage to the driver's door?) and then keep mum, minds will wonder what really happened. If Tiger had spoken up before today, it would have prevented the alleged mistresses from selling their stories to tabloids, releasing voice mails or personal photos. Well, at least they wouldn't have been paid as much.

Also, as much as you readers/viewers might like to say you don't consider personal scandals news, you're buying magazines and books and watching the news and prime time specials that hype the heck out of them.

I'm not naive enough to believe that people in the public light are perfect. I don't believe anyone - myself included - is without sin. But I don't pretend to be the best at anything. I don't parade my life in front of the tabloids (they wouldn't pay a penny for my story anyway), then resent the same members of the press when they go looking for the real story. This is not the 1960s. When there were rumblings about JFK and Marilyn Monroe, it went largely unreported. You can bet if President Obama and Beyonce were rumored to be in a relationship, it would be just as hyped - if not more - than Tiger's story.

So, please, celebrities, I ask that you decide how public you want to be. Share your family with us, we'll publicly hope you're as healthy and happy as you appear (while, perhaps, privately hoping your life is just as challenging as ours). But if you keep your lovely family out of People magazine, off your website and out of interviews, I'll respect your privacy.

Until you keep quiet. Then, I'll keep your name in an internet search engine looking for the real story before you "break" it.

Week in Pop Culture

In my next life, I want to either come back as the new Diddy or just have his cash.

Mariah Carey says she's not a diva (just don't pay attention to her behavior).

Look, I'm all for news anchors letting down their hair every now and then, but I thought it was understood that there should either be no photos or you shouldn't share them in a public place.

Apparently it's not Jennifer Aniston, but Barack Obama who may break up Angelina Jolie & Brad Pitt.

Here's a tip: if you enter a movie theater and Katie Holmes is inside, leave immediately. See? You thought you only had to do that if she was on the screen!

Amy Winehouse either really likes Christmas or she's still having issues with drugs.

I have been encouraged to add more photos of people in bikinis. So here's one super tall model in a bikini.

Sudden fame isn't for everyone. Or maybe it's just not for people over 25.

It's possible the Hasselhoffs are cursed.

I really hope these two have not broken up. They're so cute!

Finally, this little video made my week!

I Love Turkey

I really do.

While I think the President's annual tradition of pardoning a turkey is cute (and a bit silly - I mean, it's not like they're not cooking up a couple of birds in the White House today - read the history of the pardon here), I have never felt the need to hug a turkey. Don't get me wrong, I'll hug a cow, then grab a burger. But turkeys, well, I think of them as mean birds that will peck you. And they're clearly not smart or else they'd find a way to fly the coop. It's best that I win this war.

It does shock me a bit to see that 46 million turkeys are slaughtered just for this big day. Wow. That's a lot of turkey. Before you get all PETA/vegetarian on me and start shouting that birds have feelings and I should respect that, I do. But turkeys are delicious. Can't give 'em up. They should be stronger and faster than people. Then, I'll consider not tossing one in the oven. Ads like this don't make me reconsider my position.

'Grace': PETA's Thanksgiving ad
It just makes me think kids spend too much time on the internet. Google = BAD.

Even though I'll spend my Thanksgiving at work, reheating turkey and the trimmings for my co-workers, I'll be thankful that I'm smarter than turkeys and have a higher place in the food chain. The only thing that could make turkey better is if we wrapped it in bacon. I know, I know. Pigs are smart. But if they were REALLY smart, they'd find a way to not be so tasty. Just like turkeys.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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I Love Free Stuff In The Mail!

Well, I love the surprise. I may not love what's in the package. Still, exciting to get something when you're not expecting it.

Imagine my surprise when I spotted this in the mailbox Monday.
At first, I'm thinking, "Could this really be a mixtape ... about a show ... in my mailbox?" Then, I opened it.
Ray Romano, Scott Bakula, Andre Braugher. In a glass. Their show, "Men of A Certain Age," with the tagline "Life is what you make it." Hmmm. First of all, I am not a man. I am not close to their age bracket. And of those three, Andre Braugher is the only one who's TV work I have admired (LOVED him on "Homicide"). Then, I take a look at the mini-cassette looking device.
I get excited - I absolutely love getting new music! So, I plugged it in to my laptop, hesitating for a second (I mean, it could be some sort of phishing tool or be loaded with a virus or something). Nope. I get a preview of the TNT show and three songs: "The Best of Times" by Styx, "Up Around The Bend" by Creedence Clearwater Revival, and "Here I Go Again" by Whitesnake.

Now, if you know me at all (or have read my blog before), you know that I make snap judgments. So allow me to make one based on this little package and the previews I've seen.

Not. Good.

I hate writing those words with a project that has the talented Andre Braugher in it. I know that I am not their demographic. I mean, maybe if I were 15 years older (or more), I'd be all over this. Maybe if I were a dude, I'd have set my DVR to record this show. Maybe if they would have sent me a bigger playlist, then I'd think, "Who cares about the content of the show - I'm in it for the music!"

Nope.

Even though I'm running out of shows to watch, I can't do this one. But if any other network wants to send me gifts to try to sway me, I'm open to it.

So long as it doesn't involve Gosselins, MTV reality whores or anyone from that "Sex Rehab" show.

See? I do have some standards.

PS - if you want this little mix tape, let me know. I'll gladly pass it on!

Week in Pop Culture

Biggest news of the week: Oprah is calling it quits. Don't worry O fans, she'll be around until September 2011. Watch it and weep:


Nicole Kidman says it's motherhood, not implants, that made her boobs look like this. Hmm. They seem awfully orb-like to not be implants.

There's gonna be a "Scream 4." Yay.

Maybe Jennifer Aniston should stop making bad movies and become a bikini model?

Nate Berkus, Oprah's cutie-mccutie decorator pal, is getting a talk show.

It appears Courtney Cox is one cranky cougar. Nope. Still not watching that show.

Bob Saget has scored a show on A&E. If it's more like "Aristocrats" and less like that lame show he had on ABC, I might watch.

Hulk Hogan got clobbered at a press conference. Assault or gimmick? You decide.

Still not sure what I think about little Suri Cruise wearing heels.

Forbes does some serious journalism, identifying Hollywood's most overpaid stars.

Here's how Demi Moore looks skinny in magazines.

No photoshopping here: Heidi Klum (and other models) walks the runway just five weeks after having a baby - in lingerie.

Once again, Megan Fox is proving she doesn't need talent to get attention.

And, according to People, this is the year's "Sexiest Man Alive."
While I always look forward to seeing this issue in my mailbox each year, I don't know. I like Johnny Depp, but I'm pretty sure I could find one of the 109 guys in the magazine that is sexier (and perhaps a little more cleaned up - look, I can't help but be turned off by people who look like hygiene is not a priority).

GQ Men Of The Year

The magazine GQ has released its "Men of the Year" issue. I think they're mostly fine choices.

Comeback of the Year
Tom Brady. Hmm. I don't really follow football, but I can totally be on board with this guy being on the cover of a magazine. Look at him. He's pretty! I mean, not as pretty as that supermodel wife of his, but still, pretty. I do wonder if he has some clause in his contract that requires the offensive linemen to protect his face.

Badass of the Year
Of the YEAR?!? Come on! This guy is, like, baddest ass of all time! Do they get any tougher than Clint Eastwood? And not many guys can pull off all denim like this guy. I mean, would you say anything about that outfit to his face? Only if your whole goal in life is to get knocked out by an old man. Love him. He makes me want to smoke cigars and drink whiskey just so I can sound like him. It's true. If I win the lottery, that's the first thing I'm gonna do. Once I can scratch that off my list, I'll go to rehab and find ways to blow the rest of my cash.

Funnymen of the Year
"The Hangover." A movie so funny (and such a money maker), there was talk of a sequel before it was even out of theaters. Was anyone not funny in this movie? Questioning why they don't call roofies floories or rapies? Hilarious. I don't know many guys who don't talk about a wolf pack. Also, didn't know they gave out rings at the holocaust. I have to question why Mike Tyson didn't make the cover. He was so much funnier in this than in that "Tyson" documentary!

Leader of the Year
Yep. It's that guy. Barack Obama. In office nine months. Nobel Prize winner. Who else should they have chosen? Hamid Karzai? Mahmud Ahmadinejad? Shimon Peres? Kim Jong Il? Angela Merkel? Hugo Chavez? I mean, I could keep naming world leaders, but I don't really see any currently in office who qualify. I can think of a few former US Presidents who might be a little more worthy. Just saying, so many accolades before completing a first term might be a bit much.

Breakout of the Year
Not gonna lie. Chris Pine is one of two reasons I went to see "Star Trek." I would have totally supported this had he not reportedly hooked up with a reality TV star (um, know that I use the word "star" lightly as I refuse to put reality TV whores in the same category as actual movie/TV stars). I would rather choose that Taylor kid from "Twilight" who can't keep a shirt on. Plus, he's not hanging out with reality TV people. Double score. Maybe, I'd choose that kid from "The Middle" who whispers words. I know he's not a man, but I think he's one of my favorite new people in entertainment.

That's all I got. Who did I miss?

Week in Pop Culture

Just when I thought I had lost interest in anything Gwyneth Paltrow or Nicole Kidman had to do, they go and team up together. Oh, Gwynnie! You think playing Nicole's trannie wife is gonna hook me?

Dear Jane Fonda: You could be my grandma. I don't want to hear you talk about sex. Ever.

The paparazzi probably thought they had a good shot when Eva Mendes was spotted with the price tags still on her shoes. Then, she went all nipple on them.

Speaking of goodies, yet another celebrity has learned the hard way: don't take revealing pictures/video of yourself unless you're willing to share them with the world (or want to get tangled up in a lawsuit).

See! There is truth in advertising!

All the young girls who drool over Robert Pattinson should know this.

The Twitterer "Shit My Dad Says" will see his 140 character funnies on the small screen. And if you're on Twitter and not following this guy, you're missing out on a daily funny!

That Kathy Griffin dance show that was supposed to air on ABC is not gonna happen. I just can't believe there aren't some E & F list celebrities who couldn't use work these days.

I want to be Simon Cowell - or at least make as much money as he does (I'll do it for just one year - minus tight shirts that show off my nipples).

NBC is reformatting Jay Leno's show. Yeah. That's why people aren't watching.

I would totally care about Aerosmith breaking up - if we were in 1989.

If you want to feel better about yourself, check out these unflattering photos of Geena Davis.

I said it on twitter and I'll say it again here: if you get in Mike Tyson's personal space, you deserve to get punched.

Please ABC, don't re-do "Charlie's Angels." Just stick with what you've got! It's mostly good!

Megan Fox still isn't convincing me that she's not crazy.

Finally, congratulations to young Taylor Swift - who had the best week ever! She was really funny on SNL (people talked about her monologue, but this was my favorite moment) and then she took the top prize at the CMA Awards! Just hope she didn't catch Wynonna Judd's comments.

What Do The Brits Know About Movies, Anyway?

So, I'm looking at the London Times online and see they've compiled a list of "The 100 Best Movies of the Decade." I love lists like this! It's why my Netflix queue is full of more than 300 movies (look, I'm curious and hopeful that I'll either win the lottery or get mono so I can have time off to watch all of them).

Then, I start looking at the list. I'm thinking the Brits always act like they're more civilized than us Americans. Surely they'll have some fantastic films on the list! And within a few movies, I was disappointed. Some of the films on the list:

11. Borat
49. Knocked Up
54. Bad Santa
62. Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy
89. School of Rock
90. Wedding Crashers

Yes. Those movies are funny. They're silly. But the BEST films of the decade? Really??? Consider the top 10:

1. Hidden
2. The Bourne Supremacy/The Bourne Ultimatum
3. No Country For Old Men
4. Grizzly Man
5. Team America: World Police (?)
6. Slumdog Millionaire
7. The Last King of Scotland
8. Casino Royale
9. The Queen
10. Hunger

I'm totally on board with that list (minus "Team America"). There were many fine films that made the cut. But I have to wonder who put this list together? Was it a group of old fuddy-duddies and some teenagers? Don't get me wrong. I love a silly movie here and there. But I also appreciate a movie that tells a real story, one that makes me think or takes me out of my comfort zone. I don't mind subtitles.

But from here on out, I'm not taking the Brits advice on what's good/bad. Unless they send me chocolate. Then I'll think about listening to them again. Until then, stay on your side of the pond and enjoy all the Jack Black you can handle.

Week in Pop Culture

I don't really care that much, but I have set my DVR for tonight to record the Rihanna interview. I'm wondering what was worse: the whole Chris Brown thing or the promos?

I am officially convinced Gerard Butler will make out with anything with lips.

You know that reboot of a show Jessica Simpson's sister was on? She thinks it's crap.

JS also bonded over boobs with Dolly.

Forget her big behind - what the heck is going on with Kim Kardashian's boobs?

In case you missed 'em, here are some other "famous" folk in their costumes.

Kate Hudson lost 20 pounds for a movie. Hmmm. Good for her. She was SO fat before that movie.

So, Kirstie Alley's using her weight issue to get a reality show. Unless she's shoveling HoHos in her mouth by the dozen, I'm not interested. OK. Maybe I am just a little.

If I decide to have work done on my face, I want Cher's doctor to do it.

There's no disputing Leona Lewis can sing.Remembering lyrics, well...

I'm thinking I need to become slightly famous and develop a drug/alcohol habit.

Kathy Griffin is bringing her snark to ABC this month for yet ANOTHER dance show.

I don't know who this lady is, but she's apparently famous in London - and now I'm wondering what she was thinking when she left home to go out to an event.

Steve Martin & Alec Baldwin are hosting the Oscars.

There are no new ideas in Hollywood. Here's proof.

Oh, People Magazine! It's so cute how you pay tribute to dudes who don't like to wear shirts!

So, let me get this straight. It's OK to enter a beauty pageant with the boobs the contest bought you, speak out against gay marriage and make a sex tape? America - what a country!

What lengths are tabloids willing to go to to prove Josh Duhamel cheated on Fergie with a stripper? Polygraph.

Brad Pitt might be a pirate.

Oh, COME ON, Australia! No one pays good money for a Britney Spears concert expecting her to sing live.

Jeremy Piven sprouted manboobs.

And speaking of manboobs...
Try getting that out of your head.