How To Hard Boil Eggs For Easter Egg Awesomeness

Go now! Straight to the grocery store, and buy the eggs you will use for coloring later in the week. Older eggs peel much easier than fresh eggs. My dozen jumbos are in my spare fridge just waiting until Friday when I will boil and color them.

You'd think knowing how to boil eggs would be a pretty basic skill, but there are at least a couple of schools of thought when it comes to the perfect boiled egg.

Method One: Place eggs in a pot with plenty of cold water to cover them amply, add a touch of vinegar to stop any of the whites from running in case of cracking (the cold water should help prevent that from happening) and set on the stove. Turn the burner to high and when the water starts to boil, let it go for a minute before removing the pan from the heat and leave covered for another 12 minutes. After 12 minuted has elapsed, run ice cold water into the pot and let the eggs cool before storing in the fridge or decorating.

Method Two: Using eggs that you have allowed to come to room temperature, boil a pot of water and once boiling, use a slotted spoon to carefully place the eggs into the boiling water. Let boil for 15 minutes, stirring gently if you want your yolks to be centered. After 15 minutes has elapsed, remove pot from heat, drain out the hot water and fill the pot with cold water to stop the cooking process. Cool and store in the fridge or decorate.

I tend to use Method Two more than Method One and find that using room temperature eggs helps keep the yolks a nice bright yellow and not turn that kind of sickly green. I do add both salt and vinegar to the water and let my eggs sit in cold water (often changing it out) until they are super cold. Drying the eggs is often necessary for some of the decorating techniques and kits and for those, a room temp egg works best because it won't sweat.

I'll post my finished product later this week – let's see some of your creations too!

Finally read Alison Arngrim's bio...

And highly recommend it! Especially if you are any sort of fan of “Little House on the Prairie.”

In “Confessions of a Prairie Bitch: How I Survived Nellie Oleson and Learned to Love Being Hated,” Alison shows herself as one celebrity who not only embraced a character that was nothing like her real life persona, but also didn't complain about typecasting...imagine that! A celebrity truly thankful for the opportunity who didn't spend her post-Little House years bemoaning the fact that life was awful because she was a child star.

Alison overcame many difficulties in her life, living with somewhat zany parents, who were a little shy on responsibility, her father once spent a day sitting in a cafe with his business partner, stealing every tip left on the tables so he could provide food for the family.

Alison recounts her brother's sexual abuse of her and how that led her to help change the law in the state of California, while also being an extremely active volunteer helping those suffering from HIV and AIDS.

You can't help but love Alison with her sharp wit and ability to see the utterly ridiculous in her real life, as well as the one she lived as the world's nastiest kid on the prairie.

Holy Hottie! Check Out Zac Efron in The Lucky One

So I am sitting and catching up on a little television today, I know, hard to believe that I need to catch up when I have a TV on constantly, and a commercial comes on for Zac Efron's newest movie, “The Lucky One.”

First of all, I have to give a yummy shout out to Zac for gaining the muscle needed to be believable as a marine finishing off three tours of duty in Iraq. Based on a Nicholas Sparks novel of the same name, Efron heads home from Iraq to find the girl whose photo he found while at battle, a photo representing a woman he considered to be his good luck charm.

If the name Nicholas Sparks rings a bell, it should! He has written the books that a great portion of the tear-jerking movies of the last decade have been based on including:

The Notebook

Dear John

A Walk To Remember

Nights in Rodanthe

Message in a Bottle

The Last Song

For as much as I cry watching those films, I am convinced Mr. Sparks is part owner of Kimberly-Clark, the makers of Kleenex.

But back to Zac! Zac clearly has matured from his “High School Musical” days and the bulk and muscle he put on for this role helped me get past the fact that he is still isn't even 25-years-old. The previews also showed his lovely blond co-star, Taylor Schilling, best known for her role as Nurse Veronica Callahan on the TV series “Mercy.”

The two make a striking couple and the story looks compelling enough to get me to the theater to see this one!

Yes, I will be packing Kleenex when I go!

Bill And Giuliana Rancic Offer Healing and Hope To Breast Cancer Victims

Here's a couple I can say I knew way back when...Giuliana as an upbeat entertainment reporter and Bill, the first winner of Donald Trump's “The Apprentice.”

I've watched this couple through every step of their relationship, from the first meeting as Giuliana interviewed Bill, giggling and flirting with him, to their wedding, home-building, attempts to have a baby and most recently, Giuliana's bout with breast cancer.

While Giuliana's cancer has been widely reported on, faithful viewers of her show with hubby Bill, “Giuliana & Bill,” will experience it with her on a far more intimate level. Giuliana and Bill have not been afraid to show their lives; the good, the bad and the ugly, to the American viewing public. And when things have been good, they have been beyond what most of us can imagine – fabulous homes, celebrity experiences and trips all over the world, but when they are bad, we can feel their heartache and pain through failed fertility treatments, a miscarriage and now, the breast cancer.

I've seen many ugly comments online about Giuliana recently, many who say they can't feel sorry for her because she is “rich,” and many who think she is using breast cancer, of all things, to further the popularity of her show. Give me a break! Who in their right mind would want cancer for ANY reason? As for her being wealthy, yes, Giuliana and Bill have done well for themselves, but nothing has been handed to them. They both have worked very hard to be where they are at and both donate money and time to numerous causes, feeling it is their duty to use their celebrity for greater good and not just as a way to sell clothing or perfume or hype a new CD.

Don't like them, don't watch...see how simple that is?!

Aubrey O Day Taking Names and Kicking A on The Apprentice

Aubrey O'Day, perhaps best known as a contestant on season three of “Making The Band” and winning a spot in the Sean “Diddy” Combs produced band, Danity Kane, is now a front-runner on NBC's “The Apprentice.”

Sean Combs fired Aubrey O'Day from Danity Kane after accusing her of trying to expand her own fame at the expense of the band. He was not happy with her newly “sexed up” image and thought she had changed from the eager and enthusiastic woman she had once been.

I can see a little of what Mr. Combs may have been talking about. On “The Apprentice,” Aubrey has a way of taking over the tasks assigned to the celebrity teams. In most instances, she is the only one vocal enough and brave enough to even put ideas on the table and has dubbed herself, as well as fellow contestants comedienne Lisa Lampanelli and singer Debbie Gibson, the “creative” members of the team. In Donald Trump's boardroom, she has been well-spoken and assertive in defending herself and some on her team.

Seeing Aubrey and her flaming red hair on the first episode, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I knew of her from her work with Danity Kane, but had also heard the reasons that Sean Combs fired her and wasn't sure what camp to believe. After seeing her perform on “The Apprentice,” I have to say that I am having a difficult time believing the reasons cited my Combs for her firing as all I see if a very self-assured, mature and intelligent 28-year-old woman.

Perhaps that was more intimidating to Sean Combs than anything else.

Sadly, I Won't Be Counted As One Of The Big Lotto Winners

All of my driving around and crazy methods for choosing the winning numbers netted me exactly $0 in last night's Mega Millions drawing. I didn't even have the darn Mega number! I had three of the regular numbers in total, with only two numbers on one line. Without the Mega number, I had nothing!

But, after watching the “20/20” special, I could almost find a little bliss in my loss. Especially after seeing the story of the dude who won over $300 million. Sad, sad, sad to see the man break down and cry as he admitted that the money had ruined his marriage, caused the death of his granddaughter and her boyfriend to drugs, and he was heading down the wrong path in life as well. He received thousands and thousands of requests for money and it broke his heart that he couldn't help everyone, and when he didn't comply to some of the requests, people got mean and nasty. He said sure, he had money, but he had nothing else.

The only relatively normal lottery winner highlighted on the show was a young woman of 20 who had won $1,000,000 with a scratch-off lottery ticket. She paid off her school loans, bought a car and a camera and banked the rest of her winnings, continuing her work as a waitress. Yes, a million dollars is a lot of money, but not THAT much money and I think that helps.

It seemed that the people who up and quit their jobs and started living lives vastly different from what they were accustomed to were the ones who had the most trouble, as well as anyone who had an ounce of sensitivity. No matter how hard you may try to hide your win from the general public, it seems that all winners get revealed and tracked down, and then the phone calls and letters start. Unless you have a heart of stone, it has to be terribly difficult to hear and read the pleas of others desperately in need of financial assistance to save homes and lives and then have to turn a blind eye to them.

Of course I won't stop playing the lottery myself, but it helps me not to feel quite so badly when my numbers don't come up.

Football Field Performance Aside Michael Oher Continues To Inspire

Unlike most of the nation, I missed seeing the 2009 film “The Blind Side” until I recently got a copy of it on DVD.

I had read enough about the life of Michael Oher and his adoption by Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy by the time I saw the movie that I knew many portions of the film had been embellished a bit and the order of events changed to make the movie flow better, but the story portrayed on the screen was essentially true.

While “The Blind Side” was a great general overview of the events that happened to Michael, the story is really told from Leigh Anne's perspective. Michael himself has finally put pen to paper and written his own account. Not that the story differs, but much of what we see in the movie is about how everyone else feels, but very little of how Michael felt.

Oher's new book, “I Beat The Odds: From Homelessness To the Blind Side” is all from Michael's perspective. His autobiography, written with Don Yaeger, offers inspiration, advice, and as one reviewer said so eloquently, “realness.”

Michael Lewis' “The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game” was really almost two different books in one, concentrating on the evolution of offensive football strategy over the years in the first part and then the story of Michael Oher from impoverished youth through his first year as a player for Ole Miss. Oher's book covers his story from childhood through the present and offers many insights into the downfall of athletes who don't take care of business; whether it's getting their education or taking care of their finances, Michael offers real advice garnered from his extensive experience.

Early in 2008, Michael Oher announced he would be participating in the 2008 NFL Draft, but two days later, changed his mind in favor of finishing his degree in criminal justice and finishing off his college playing career with Ole Miss. If other athletes who read the book take away nothing else but the message that their education is important, the book should be required reading for high school and college athletes everywhere.

PaUly D TAkEs OvEr Dj Am SpOt At ThE PaLmS

Now let's hope that Pauly D, of “Jersey Shore” fame doesn't fall victim to the demons that ultimately claimed DJ AM (AKA Adam Michael Goldstein).

DJ AM was a member of the band Crazy Town, and along with Seth “Shifty” Binzer, (yet another participant in Dr. Drew's “Celebrity Rehab” and “Sober House”) soon embarked down the road of drug abuse, with crack cocaine being his worst demon.

Adam eventually went to rehab and seemed to be doing well. He had started filming a reality show for MTV titled “Gone Too Far” where he often counseled other drug abusers and urged them to get help. Adam relapsed during the filming, but promised his addiction counselor that he would return to rehab after the show finished filming. By then, it was too late. DJ AM was found dead of an overdose on August 28^th and MTV, after much debate, went ahead and aired the show, hoping that Adam's final demise would send a strong message.

I saw Adam's show and he really did a great job talking to and motivating the drug users highlighted in the program. He was caring without being overbearing and you could tell that the users believed Adam, many really feeling the message of hope he offered to those willing to get help.

DJ AM was only 36 at the time of his death and had accomplished much with his life. It is too bad it had to end far too soon. He most certainly would have been a huge influence in many areas of the music industry if he could have won the fight over his demons.

20/20 To Feature Past Lottery Winners, Lottery Scammers & More!

I am just counting the minutes until the Mega Millions drawing and it seems like time is dragging by!

If you have Mega Millions Fever like me, be sure and tune into “20/20” tonight on ABC. They will be devoting the hour to the upcoming Mega Millions drawing, interviewing past lottery winners and losers, playing the odds, and talking about how past lottery winners have gone broke.

I know of at least one major lottery winner who promptly quit his job, but only after giving his employer a rather detailed list of everything that was wrong with him personally, his business and rate of pay and then, after clearing out his locker, he filled it with the contents of a garbage can and lit it on fire.

That lottery winner opted for the annual payments and promptly spent the entire first annual allotment in less than 30 days. An amount more than 100 times what his previous monthly salary was. Out of money, he was forced to go back to his previous employer and beg for his job back. Were there other jobs out there? Yes, but this winner burned plenty of bridges in the short month that he was “rich” and no one wanted to touch him with a ten foot pole.

Lucky for him, his old employer gave him his job back, at a decreased rate of pay, and when the winner's annual lottery payment arrived eleven months later, he politely gave his two-weeks notice and quietly disappeared from the public eye.

Nomination For Worst Undercover Boss Disguise Goes To...

Harlan Kent, CEO of Yankee Candle...and it was bad. Not that he was recognizable at all and I suppose that is the point of a disguise, but did they have to make him look like a cross between the kid who flunked a few years and could grow a full beard while in 5^th grade and Little Orphan Annie?

I have to admit that I wouldn't mind a job as a candle sniffer for Yankee. I can't make it through a Bed Bath and Beyond without cracking open at least 50 of those candles. I might as well get paid for it!!

So Just What Are The Odds Of Winning Mega Millions?

Now that I have my numbers, just what are the odds of winning the ultimate jackpot? Well, according to a ticket sitting right in front of me, the odds of winning tonight's over half-billion dollar jackpot are 1:175,711,536. Zowee, perhaps I should have bought a few more tickets!

In other words, I have a much better chance of being struck by lightning (1:576,000), catching a ball at a major league baseball game (563:1), having a five-card flush with first five cards dealt (1:649,740), drowning in my bathtub (1:685,000), getting canonized (1:20,000,000) and even being burned to death by the ignition and subsequent melting of nightwear (1:30,589,556). And really, that last one is NOT at all likely to happen unless they consider socks “nightwear” and I only wear those in the winter!

Because I like to think optimistically, I also found a few things even less likely to happen than winning Mega Millions. I only have a one in 300,000,000 chance of dying from a shark attack. The odds are also even more skewed in my favor with that one since I no longer live on, or near an ocean. My chance of being killed on a five-mile trip made by bus is only one in 500,000,000, and the best news yet, the odds of a meteor landing on my home are only one in 182,138,880,000,000.

But it is still immensely fun to hope and dream and for the smaller prizes, I have a much better chance of winning a $2, $3, $7 or $10 prize than being possessed by Satan (1:7,000). As soon as we start talking about winning amounts of $150 and up, however, Satan has a better chance of capturing my soul than I do of winning any of the upper tier of prizes.

Don't Even Bother Buying Tickets Now – I Have The Winning Lottery Numbers!

After a very long and circuitous 56 mile trip to eight different gas stations, convenience and grocery stores, and many minutes spent waiting in lines, I now hold the winning Mega Millions ticket in my hands. I used a combination of methods to choose my numbers, including finally cracking open my Gerard Butler fortune cookie - I managed to break the cookie and see the numbers without even opening the package!

First off, I could not believe the lines and the amount of people clamoring for tickets. It was insane, even in my remote rural area, but unlike my past experiences in large metropolitan areas, most in line spent the time chatting, laughing, promising to share their winnings, buy a few rounds of drinks, etc. I get a lot more sense of community in this place, where homes are typically at least a half mile apart, than I ever did when living in the midst of several million people.

Many had never played, many needed help filling out the form to get their “own” numbers chosen, but everyone was patient and helpful. Made me start doing the math in my head figuring out what a nice surprise would be for the members of my small town to find in their mail box after I won. $1,000? $10,000? I would maintain my current home, but would also investigate the possibility of buying my own private island.

The first thing I am doing though, is going into hiding. If you don't hear from me after the drawing, you'll know why!

American Idol's Heejun Han Knew The End Was Near

If “American Idol” were “American Comedic Idol,” Korean-American contestant Heejun Han might have had a chance, but after a few weeks, it seemed America no longer found his schtick funny. And neither did the judges who refused to use their one and only save of the season to keep Heejun around for at least another week.

Judging by how the season is going (again), with the majority of girls getting the boot already, the judges will use that save to give one of the girls another chance. Otherwise, typical of "American Idol" of the last several years, a boy will win because the voting audience is comprised mainly of young girls with fast fingers and unlimited text messaging capabilities, who vote for the cute boys, no matter what they happen to sound like.

And here too, my preference for a reality singing competition show goes to NBC's “The Voice.” Most of the ousted contestants have thanked everyone involved with the show for the opportunity and seem sincere. Sure, there was Hailey, the female half of singing duo “The Line” who had little to say to anyone when she and her partner were eliminated, but better that than what Heejun Han felt compelled to do during an exit interview from “American Idol.”

When asked who Heejun would be rooting for now, he said his favorites had already been eliminated and there was no one else he liked enough to bother rooting for. He added he would more than likely just sit at home and watch Idol's biggest competition, “The Voice.”

I guess Heejun never learned if he can't say anything nice to not say anything at all and combined with his accusation that Diddy (Sean Combs) was drunk when he acted as a mentor on Idol, I wouldn't count on any record deals coming in from that front either.

Jersey Shore Alum Gets Fists Pumping On Pauly D Project

At least I would imagine he did. I'm not entirely sure since I haven't yet seen the first "Jersey Shore" spinoff because my DVR just can't record ten programs at the same time. I was torn as well about watching it in the first place because I am a little disappointed by the changes in Pauly D since he first set foot in the "Jersey Shore" house, and on my plasma, in December of 2009.

Now why would anyone in my age range watch “Jersey Shore?” Good question! I'm still not entirely sure what got me started, but I was hooked by the absolute insanity of the characters on the show. Of all of them, best buddies, Vinnie (Vincenzo Guadagnino) and Pauly D (Paul DelVecchio) were my faves. Pauly D was definitely the cutest of the boys while Vinnie seemed to have the highest IQ. Only later did I find out that at that point, Vinnie was barely legal and Pauly D was nearing the dreaded 3-0 in age.

Others may have wondered why anyone would put themselves on a show like “Jersey Shore,” where most of the cast ended up looking like sex-crazed, alcoholic morons, but hey, why not? If I were of the age where MTV was ready to offer me a reality program where I needed to do little except party and GTL, I surely would jump at the chance.

But I digress...

Back to Pauly D. I've noticed over the last couple of seasons, that someone who was once a generally nice guy has turned kind of mean. It saddens me to see what a little bit of fame does to so many, but with Pauly, as well as other males on the “Jersey Shore” cast, they seem to have forgotten the very people who helped make their careers – their fans, especially those of the female variety.

Sure, the boys called the less than attractive girls, “grenades” from the start, but never to their faces. I remember seeing the boys being quite polite to everyone, young and old during the first couple of seasons, but something happened after that. Just last season, one young woman had obviously developed a crush on Pauly D and was immediately dubbed his “stalker.” She appeared everywhere and Pauly made no attempt to hide his contempt for her, making rude comments about her and her appearance. When she got to meet Pauly, he cracked some rude joke and took off and the young woman looked devastated.

I noticed some of the other cast members had taken up this “hobby” as well and seemed to make quite a game out of how many of the locals they could utterly humiliate on camera. And again I wonder who they think turned them into household names, virtually overnight.

I don't expect any of them to fall all over themselves thanking everyone they meet, but I get the feeling none of them realize just how lucky they are and how quickly that luck can change.

I'll be catching the repeat of “The Pauly D Project” tonight and hope to see the funny guy I saw that first season of the “Jersey Shore.” If not, I'm afraid tonight's viewing of Pauly's show will be my last.

Julia Roberts As An Evil Queen In Mirror Mirror

Say it isn't so! I don't know if I will be able to believe that as I can't recall Julia Roberts playing anything or anyone remotely evil in her acting career. And no, playing a prostitute in “Pretty Woman” hardly counts as evil, especially in Nevada.

But I will go and see the level of evilness that Miss Roberts brings to the big screen for myself, being somewhat of a lover of fairy tales of the non-animated variety. “Mirror Mirror” is based, reportedly quite loosely, on the classic “Snow White” and features lovely Lily Collins as the lead, who enlists seven rather interesting characters to help in her quest for the crown and the prince's heart.

Will “Mirror Mirror” surpass “The Princess Bride” as my favorite adult-but-really-marketed-for-children movie of all time. I doubt it. “The Princess Bride” is a true classic and it is unlikely that any movie, no matter the star-power attached to it, will ever surpass it in the hearts of those who quote it daily.

Other notables in “Mirror Mirror” include Armie Hammer as the handsome Prince Alcott, with other rolls filled my Nathan Lane, Mare Winningham and Michael Lerner among others. I adore Nathan Lane so I would go strictly because he is in this movie, but I have hopes that Julia can pull a good bitchy role and expand her future movie character choices. With a PG rating, Julia can only be so bitchy, but as long as she puts her teeth into this role, it could be quite good for her to break free of the good girl mold.

Will 7th Time Be The Charm For Jerry Lee Lewis?

Has Jerry Lee Lewis finally found ever-lasting love with wife number seven? For the sake of trying to draw out his family tree, let's hope so!

I was actually surprised he chose to get married again. He managed to make his last marriage, to Kerrie McCarver, work for 20 years and at the age of 76, I thought perhaps he had run out of funds to pay any more alimony and child support than he already was.

But I was wrong. This time, Jerry Lee married one Judith Brown, and this is where things get a little twisted. You see, Judith is the ex-wife of Jerry's cousin, Rusty Brown. If that name doesn't ring a bell, maybe this will. Rusty Brown is the brother of Jerry's third wife, and cousin, Myra Gale Brown. Still a little fuzzy? Maybe it would help if I added that not only was Myra Jerry's cousin, she was also only 13 years-old at the time of her marriage to Jerry.

Oh, that marriage. Now let's not be quick to judge. Jerry was 23 at the time, a man of the world, with two previous marriages under his belt already. He was ready to settle down and what better candidate than his 13 year-old cousin?

Surprisingly, that marriage lasted 13 years, all the way to Myra's 26^th birthday. At least Myra wasn't left a bitter and old divorcee. Bitter maybe, but certainly not old at 26.

At the age of 76, Jerry now has a total of almost 51 years of marriage under his belt with six wives, embarking on a happy lifetime with number seven. Happy lifetime being relative. If we average the length of his previous marriages, Jerry should be looking for wife number eight in July of 2020, when he is a spry 84 year-old.

Time Once Again To Choose Some Lucky Numbers!

After finally breaking into my Gerard Butler fortune cookie and not being overly enthusiastic about the numbers on the fortune, I am trying to think of other lucky numbers in my life to use for my next round of Mega Millions tickets.

With the jackpot sitting at $640 million, that's right, over a HALF BILLION dollars, I know I need to put some thought into some good numbers sure to help me land the big prize.

Playing the last two digits of the year of my birth is not possible, my age works, the month and date of my birthday work as well, but the possibility that others would choose those same numbers is too great. Do you know what the probability is that two people share the same date of birth in just a pool of 30 people? It's huge! Don't ask me to show the math, just trust me.

So I need a system of some sort. I don't trust the random number generators I have found online because who knows? They could be giving everyone the same supposedly random numbers. What? Me paranoid?

Looking at past major lottery winners, very few have played a special set of numbers. Most winners do come from the quick pick pool. I only remember one gentleman in Illinois who finally won playing the same set of numbers that he had for the last 20-odd years. He never missed a drawing and always played the same several sets encompassing special birth dates in his family. It made me wonder how much he had spent by the time he actually won!

Hopefully some inspiration will come on my way to the gas station to pick up my tickets...I would count street lights, but there aren't any in this part of the world. Counting cows is a possibility as are the number of dead vermin on the roads. I'd love to win and get to explain THAT strategy for my number choices!

Scotty Mccreery is Scotty McDreary To Me

As I have mentioned, on more than a few occasions, country music just isn't my thing. I can tolerate SOME country songs, but for the most part, I quickly tire of the tales of woe put to the same basic melodies over and over and over again.

When country boy Scotty McCreery hit the “American Idol” auditions for season 10, I knew he would make it to their Hollywood week, but had doubts he would ever get beyond that point when the kid continually sang the same song, over and over again. Despite never wanting to know them, the constant repetition of Josh Turner's “Your Man” lyrics stuck in my brain and as soon as I even see Scotty McCreery, they come rushing back in, like a bad LSD flashback. “Baby lock the door and turn the lights down low...Put some music on that's soft and slow...” Ick. Made even ickier when delivered by a skinny, geeky kid with an overly deep voice that didn't seem to belong to him.

Of course my worst nightmare was realized when Scotty won “American Idol,” well, not so much my worst nightmare, if I am going to be perfectly honest, but it was close to the top of the list. I knew if he won, I could certainly avoid listening to him again on the radio since I stray far away the country music stations, but it also meant he would undoubtedly turn up again on the “American Idol” stage.

And sure enough, he did. During the last results show, McCreery was slated to perform with Nicki Minaj. Oh, what a treat, especially for the contestant about to be ousted form the show. Here's a guy who won and look! His album went platinum, but you're a loser and going home. Bu-bye.

Jimmy Iovine presented Scotty with his platinum plaque after his performance. Don't ask me what Scotty sang as I learned to never listen to him after the “Your Man” incident.

Good job, Scotty, thanks for the memories...not.

Bohemian Rhapsody – Song of Choice For Cop Car Cruising

Robert Wilkinson, a home brewer (surprise) from Edmonton, Alberta Canada, was pulled over while driving his pick up truck, just a tad intoxicated, back in November of 2011. 

Captured on police video, a very drunk Wilkinson has a few philosophical words with the arresting officer before launching into his version of Queen's 1975 hit, “Bohemian Rhapsody.”

Wilkinson was given a copy of the evidence when he decided to defend himself in court and then chose to upload the video himself, after numerous friends wanted to see it. Of course, the video has now been viewed by hundreds of thousands of viewers all over the world and it is doubtful that many would believe his not guilty pleas to the charges of impaired driving and refusal to take the breathalyzer test.

Wilkinson's version of the song was performed almost flawlessly, all six-plus minutes of it, including many of the instrumentals that Wilkinson also recreated. He was only admonished by the arresting officer once throughout the song when he got a bit over-enthusiastic, otherwise, he was quite cooperative with the police.

While I think it is doubtful that Wilkinson's posting of the video will aid him at all by the time his November 2012 trial date arrives, but perhaps he will be given some credit for at least knowing all of the lyrics, something very few professional singers who have tackled the song, with exception to Freddie Mercury himself, have managed to do. And if nothing else, perhaps he can parlay his Internet fame into a lucrative endorsement deal for voice lessons and hand-held breathalyzer units.

Will You Be Watching Katie Couric On Good Morning America?

I won't. Not even tempted, though if this ratings stunt works, I would strongly caution that Robin Roberts, current co-anchor of GMA along with George Stephanopoulos, cut her vacation short and scoot Katie's perky butt out of her chair fast. Even though Katie has a daytime talk show in the works starting the fall, she could always change her mind and hey, spending mornings with cute George S. wouldn't be a bad way to start the day.

No, I'm not a hater. I just intensely dislike Katie Couric and her style of reporting. She has a habit of being extremely biased, though she did tone it down a bit on CBS during her failure of a reign as an evening anchor there. I suspect she will be even more milquetoast on “Good Morning America” to make her new Disney bosses happy.

Personally, judging by how well-received Meredith Vieira was when she took over Katie's spot on NBC's “Today Show,” coupled with some not always so nice comments made about Couric by her former co-workers there, tinged with a great lack of emotion when she finally left NBC, I think the “perky” title was code for hyped up bitch. If you didn't see Meredith Vieira's final morning at “The Today Show,” tears were shed by all

Can Ann Curry, current co-anchor of “The Today Show” hold her own against Katie? That remains to be seen. Curry, who spent many years filling in for both Katie and Meredith while in her role as news reader, is still a little awkward in her leading spot on “The Today Show.” Critics haven't always been kind, but NBC has held onto its number one title for 17 years.

MaJor OoPsie FoR Uc Berkeley

In what has to be one of the biggest blunders ever, it was revealed that UC Berkeley sold a work of art valued at $215,000 for the garage sale price of $150.00 back in 2009.

The artwork was acquired by the university after it took over the space it formerly occupied, The California School For The Blind. Before renovations on that building started, the piece was removed and stored in a warehouse for many years until its eventual sale. It turns out that the work of art had been mislabeled and that was why it made its way into the surplus sale, however, I have to wonder what the heck happened? We aren't talking about a little painting here or the bust of a prominent figure. No, we are talking about a TWENTY-TWO FOOT LONG PIECE OF CARVED REDWOOD!

That's right...22 FEET, intricately carved with nature images and done by renowned African-American artist, Sargent Johnson, the piece was obviously one that the blind students could enjoy when on display in its original home.

I've done some home improvement projects and have purchased a lot of wood over the years. No home improvement center, no lumberyard either, that I know of at least, would have sold you that amount of wood alone for $150, much less highly-coveted redwood, and especially not a huge chunk of redwood that was covered in carvings.

This is the stuff garage sale visitors and those who dig through dusty thrift shops dream of, though how the average bargain hunter would have managed to transport the piece is another issue entirely.

The Works Progress Administration, who had originally commissioned the piece, wants assurance from UC Berkeley that an incident like this will never happen again. I can't say that I blame them in the least.

And to think, I felt absolutely awful when I found I had accidentally sold an autographed copy of “Class with the Countess” (given to me personally by Real Housewife of New York's resident royalty, the Countess Luann De Lesseps) at my last garage sale. Okay, I wasn't exactly devastated, and autographed copies of that book sell for a few cents more than new, but still, I could completely relate!

Can Colton Dixon Last On American Idol?

One of this season's semi-punk rocker dudes On “American Idol” is Colton Dixon, easily identified by his almost Jay Leno-esque hair color....think Jay Leno's hair in his younger days, that funky reverse skunk looking 'do he sported until he started going gray.

I am watching the results show as I type this and think Colton will be safe, but is he what America is looking for as the next “American Idol” or does he represent the person many Christians wish they had the courage to be? Is Colton really THAT good or are votes for him really signs of approval for Christianity in general?

Colton has spoken quite openly about his religious conviction and faith. Last night's performance show allowed each “American Idol” contestant to perform a song by one of their personal idols. I guess since Jesus doesn't have any current Billboard hits or platinum records, Colton chose the next best thing; the song “Everything” by the band Lifehouse. While Lifehouse has said that they do not want to be considered a Christian band, members do not deny that they are Christians and their music often reflects their faith. Colton Dixon told Idol judges last night that “Everything” was one of his favorite “worship songs.”

Do the band members of Lifehouse perhaps know or understand something about the industry that Colton Dixon doesn't? Or is Colton simply a full-blown, out-of-the-closet Christian who is unafraid to put his faith on display? Is Colton's religion an asset or a liability on the “American Idol” stage?

It doesn't appear to be a problem with the American public for now...Colton is safe for another week.

Capybara Looks Like The World's Biggest Guinea Pig To Me!

I seriously had to stop watching TLC's “My Crazy Obsession” after seeing too many episodes that were making me physically sick. I mean come on, we had the one woman who stuffed pounds and pounds of baby powder up her nose to start, then there was the dude who enjoyed having...um...how can I say this? Perhaps a “special relationship” with his car would work best. And then there was the young woman who liked drinking gasoline. As someone who has siphoned gas in her time, I can tell you that there is no way in heck anyone who has swallowed even a tiny bit of gas, and spent the next day passing gas burps, wants to see someone guzzling the stuff!

But, I couldn't help myself when I saw the previews for the season finale of “My Crazy Obsession” that featured what appeared to be a MAMMOTH guinea pig! I had a succession of guinea pigs growing up that all lived to ripe old ages, but never one that got to be that HUGE! 

It turns out the MEGA guinea pig was actually a capybara, which is indeed a member of the rodent family and actually IS related to the guinea pig!

I loved the Gary, the capybara featured on TLC, but honestly, the story could have been about any crazy animal lover. Melanie, Gary's owner, was featured because her pet was so unusual, but not so much her love for her pet. Believe me, I have seen that kind of devotion to pets by many and communicating with any species seems to be all the rage. Horses, dogs, cats and now capybara - all seem to be fair game for those psychically-able to channel the animal's thoughts and emotions or minimally, hypnotize their owners into paying for their services.

Wait...I think I'm channeling Mr. Schnapps now...he seems to want something. Yes, Mr. Schnapps seems to be telling me that he wants a Milk Bone and thinks mommy should have a little snack too! Wow! I am psychic! And Mr. Schnapps is incredibly intelligent!

Send me an email if you would like me to spiritually connect with your pet of choice. I offer reasonable rates and 24 hour emergency service is available :-)

Has Carson Daly Paid For His Sins?

Carson Daly, in response to his very politically-incorrect joke made Tuesday regarding the JetBlue pilot meltdown, has apologized profusely for his comments to the Lesbian Gay Bisexual Transgender community.

If you reside beneath a rock and didn't hear the “joke,” the gist of it was that Carson commented with his luck, he would have been on a flight headed straight to a gay pride parade and that his on-board colleagues would have been florists headed to a convention in Vegas – delivered in a high-pitched, affected tone of voice.

Passengers aboard the JetBlue flight were on their way to a security conference when the pilot had his meltdown and the passengers manged to wrangle him to the floor and subdue him.

Carson apologized, saying he has always been a strong supporter of the LGBT community and would continue to fight with them. GLAAD (Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation) said they looked forward to taking Carson up on his offer and left it to the people to decide the sincerity of Carson's apology.

I'm actually surprised Carson made the comments that he did and will give him the benefit of the doubt, especially considering that much of his work has him working with members of the LGBT community. His apology certainly felt sincere to me and I think he knew it was a sophomoric thing to say. It is difficult for anyone who spends the vast majority of their lives on camera or on-air in any capacity, to not slip up occasionally.

I do wonder, however, if the joke had been made by a gay comic, if it would have been received with as much animosity?

Commentary About 19 Kids And Counting At The Top Of My Email

Apparently someone seems to think I have my rose-colored glasses strapped firmly in place when it comes to my views about the Duggars. Unfortunately, because the email was littered with more expletives than anything else, I cannot re-post it. Suffice it to say that I was accused of having my head firmly entrenched up my back end, and then it continued on to point out the many injustices the Duggar children, especially the females, have to endure.

It was asserted that the Duggar girls must get married early and are not allowed to attend college. This is false. A few of the older Duggar girls are going to college now. Jinger is pursuing a degree in music, while Jill has gone into nursing and Jessa goes for a business degree.

Check out: http://www.collegeplus.org/duggars

Is it a traditional college experience? No, definitely not, but that doesn't devalue the education or the ambition at all. As noted, eldest son Josh is pursuing a law degree and both he and Jill will transition to traditional college campuses when necessary. The older Duggar children love their family and siblings and are responsible young people who do not mind helping out where needed. Because they found a viable alternative to spending four years away from home to further their education, I should find fault with that? Because Josh, who is married with children of his own, does not choose to leave his wife and children to fend for themselves while he pursues a law degree, I should blast them all over the Internet?

As someone who had a lot, and I do mean a LOT of fun in college, I can also attest to the fact that I paid for it and without filthy rich parents, I paid the price myself. Thankfully, I learned, and quick. I can't say the same for many of the college students I know who are spending many thousands of their parents' hard-earned dollars to fail class after class and turn a four-year degree into a six-year affair.

Faith Hill Photos Reveal...Surprise! She's A Human Being!

Thanks to the Internet, some photos of Faith Hill, sans makeup, have made an appearance and garnered some of the cruelest comments I have seen in a long while. Some claim she is unrecognizable, others claim there is a resemblance to Howard Stern, most are simply delusional.

Honestly, do you really think any celebrity looks as picture perfect off-screen as they do on? I can personally attest, with exception to only the very youngest, and I mean under the age of 18 - 20, none do. I have met many “stars,” and remain sociable with several I have worked with over the years. While Faith Hill is not someone I know personally, or spent any time with, I can tell you that after viewing her natural self in a photo, she is NO DIFFERENT than any other celebrity. And yes, it is no different for male celebrities than females. The males just get away with a ruddy complexion because it is considered rugged and manly – I hate to tell you this, but it is also considered quite normal for all humans.

I even caught my husband critiquing a popular female celebrity on television the other night, saying that she was looking especially “rough.” Well folks, that's not difficult in our big-screen, high-definition world. I took a recent photo I had shot of him and magnified it to the size we were seeing on our television set and he wanted me to burn my computer monitor and make a vow that I would never publish the photo.

Makeup to cover the most normal flaws is heavy and is blasted onto a celebrity's face using a small air gun. Skin needs a break from that torture and celebrities need a break from feeling they can't be human.

With three kids, a 16-year marriage to Tim McGraw, who just last year admitted to having a problem with alcohol, and a huge career besides, I think Faith looks great.

Ron Burgundy Set For Triumphant Return In Theaters Soon!

Will Ferrell, er, I mean Ron Burgundy, made quite the entrance on Conan O'Brien's talk show last night to show off his jazz flute skills and announce his highly-anticipated return to the big screen soon. 

Check out the clip, though I must warn of some adult language - See Ron Burgundy on Conan!

“Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy” originally opened in 2004 and within weeks of its release to the general public, became a cult classic. Fans have been clamoring for a sequel ever since and Will Ferrell and the Action 4 News Team is set to deliver another blockbuster that may not gain anyone an Academy Award nomination, it will certainly keep us laughing and quoting the absolute absurdities uttered by Ron for years to come.

Will's portrayal of Ron Burgundy had me laughing as soon as I saw him in the movie because my father's wardrobe of the 70's looked much like what Ron Burgundy sports, including the patent leather shiny white shoes.

While the story line for “Anchorman” The Legend of Ron Burgundy” left a bit to be desired, Ferrell's portrayal of the confident news anchor was likeable and hilarious enough to carry us through the story that sometimes slowed unnecessarily. It is likely that Steve Carell and Paul Rudd will return along with director Adam McKay and producer Judd Apatow.

Twitter users have run amok with quotes from the original movie including “Sweet Lincoln's mullet,” “Son of a bee sting!” and “Knights of Columbus, that hurt!” If you haven's seen the original film, do so now and enjoy the magic that is Ron Burgundy!

You stay classy, San Diego!

Living Legend Stevie Nicks Mentors American Idol Contestants

Okay, so the kids on “American Idol” claimed to understand the importance of the artist that stood before them in the form of blond, petite and still gorgeous, Stevie Nicks. Stevie was certainly impressed enough with the talent, most especially that of Idol front-runner Phillip Phillips ( I know! Were his parents too lazy to think of a different first name for the kid? I shudder to think of that he would have been named if their last name was Halkawalkadinklestein), but I never really got the impression that any of the kids realized the greatness that stood before them beyond what Jimmy Iovine and the other producers told them about the woman.

The history of Stevie Nicks, Lindsey Buckingham and Fleetwood Mac spans the last several decades and most certainly didn't include any of the opportunities afforded the Idol contestants. Stevie has worked with most of the biggest names in the music industry, battled addictions, weight issues, a tumultuous relationship with Buckingham, and later an affair with Mick Fleetwood, that she ended knowing it would be Fleetwood Mac's demise if it continued.

I remember Stevie Nicks not only for the great memories of listening to Fleetwood Mac as a pre-teen, but also the fashion trends she inspired. Platform boots, huge long skirts and shawls were all the rage back then thanks to Nicks. I remember the older girls in junior high and high school all looking like they belonged to the same group of militant prairie dwellers in their skirts and chunky boots.

As I got a bit older, Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks' solo work provided the background music for a lot of my young adult life. Many a night were spent chugging Boone's Farm Strawberry Hill while listening to Stevie's distinctive voice as we contemplated what actual adulthood would bring our way.

Check out my Playlist below for some of my favorite Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks tunes!

Jennie Garth Gets Dumped By Vampire

Jennie Garth's marriage to actor Peter Facinelli is over. Kaput, nada, no more. Despite Jennie's best efforts to keep her 11-year marriage intact, Peter filed for divorce, citing the ever-popular “irreconcilable differences.”

Peter has been best known as the character Dr. Carlisle Cullen, patriarch of the Cullen vampire clan from the “Twilight” series of movies based on the books by Stephenie Meyer. Filming for the four motion pictures took place in Vancouver and that caused a tremendous strain on his marriage to Jennie. Sadly, Jennie and Peter's three daughters, Luca, Lola and Fiona will suffer the collateral damage of yet another Hollywood marriage gone wrong.

The couple had tried therapy, though Jennie sadly admits that she wishes Peter would have tried harder. She does not believe the most recent rumors claiming Facinelli had been cheating on her.

It seems that Peter gave Jennie the opportunity to file for the divorce, allowing her the last dignity typically dictated in high-profile divorces, but Jennie still clung to the hope that she could make things work. Even with divorce papers in hand, she still believes there is a chance at reconciliation.

I like Jennie. She seems like a sweet woman and great mom. To have had an 11-year marriage in Hollywood is nothing short of a miracle and as she approaches her 40^th birthday, and the release of a new reality show based on her life, “A Little Bit Country,” no doubt she is devastated.

Some (idiots) claim Jennie's reaction has been carefully staged to garner “sympathy” for her reality show. I believe Peter, whose fame had finally eclipsed that of the woman who had supported him quite well throughout the early years of their relationship, decided he no longer needed her, and wanted the freedom to move on to greener and younger pastures. 

 

Last thought for the day...

Dairy Queen has the bomb-diggiest onion rings around, but re-heated in the microwave, they lose their crunchy loveliness. Thankfully, my custom chocolate chunk-banana-Heath Bar-made with chocolate ice cream Blizzard didn't mind a short respite in my freezer and fared much better.

Be sure and join the Blizzard Fan Club to get six Blizzard BOGO coupons every year!

Nightie night, folks!

How Shall I Choose My Mega Millions Numbers?

Since I am a big winner of $2 from the previous drawing of Mega Millions, it is time to decide how I will re-invest my fortune and gain the upper edge to win the $476 million jackpot on Friday. I typically go the quick pick route, but have decided to use my $2 winning ticket to put toward numbers I choose myself.

But how to pick? Using birthdays, ages and the such seems to yield me lots of very common numbers chosen by many others from my generation, and when I win, I am selfish enough to want to win the entire $476 million and not have to split it with 100 others across the country.

The Mega Millions website offers a random number generator and I may use that for at least one ticket, but that still leaves me one ticket to choose numbers for.

One of my most prized possessions is a fortune cookie, still in its wrapper, that was handed to me by Gerard Butler (yes, THAT Gerard Butler) six years ago. I debated asking him to autograph it for me, but didn't want to look like a complete whack-job, so instead, I carefully wrapped the plastic-encased treasure in several layers of toilet paper, stealthily procured from the ladies room, and then carefully carried it in my bag as if I were transporting a live grenade. Once home, I placed the fortune cookie in my jewelry box where it has sat ever since.

Is it finally time to crack open the cookie for the lottery numbers printed beneath what I am sure is very timely and relevant guidance for my life? Is it worth ruining what is certain to be an incredibly rare collectible for one chance at $476 million?

Heck, yeah!

Tami Roman Heart Attack At 41 Serves As A Reminder To All

Time to take better care of ourselves! I know at the age of 25, I thought 40 would be old, but now that I am slightly past that mark, I have moved the old age marker to 95. Tami Roman's mild heart attack at the age of 41, sadly, is not all that uncommon, and should serve as a warning to all of us, women especially, who tend to die of heart attacks more often than men.

Tami Roman is a current star on VH-1's reality show, “Basketball Wives,” even though she divorced her basketball-playing husband, Kenny Anderson, two years ago. Tami's life has been rather tumultuous since her initial claim to fame as a cast member on MTV's “The Real World” back in 1993. Her hard-partying, combative and controversial nature got her kicked out of the house and it didn't look like much had changed when she showed up for the second season of “Basketball Wives.”

Tami was rushed to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center after a scheduled Monday night online chat with fans. She said she hadn't been feeling well, but never imagined she had had a heart attack. And that is why heart attacks tend to be more deadly for women than men. The symptoms are rarely as obvious, and many women also have a propensity for ignoring the signs because they are just too busy with career, husbands and children.

Tami claims that this incident has helped put things into perspective for her and she told her fans in the Twitter world that she would be taking a bit of a break. Will it be enough?

Tami appeared to be in great shape physically, did enjoy drinking for sure, but the anger she constantly carried towards the other women on the show, her ex-husband and life in general, certainly couldn't have helped the situation. Can she change? Is it possible to grow up and get over it already?

Keep heart healthy everyone and don't sweat the small stuff!

TLC's Duggars Suffer Tremendous Loss

It will come as no real surprise to fans of TLC's “19 Kids & Counting” that Michelle Duggar, mother of 19, suffered a miscarriage and subsequent loss of Jubilee Shalom Duggar. The tragedy happened last December, and several outlets broadcast the news back then, but to see it happening on their season finale, had me in tears...again. I can't even imagine how difficult it must be for the Duggar family and send only good thoughts their way.

I like the Duggars. I will even say I admire them. This eternally faithful, almost always cheerful family is completely self-sufficient. It costs we taxpayers nothing to support them, in fact, quite the opposite as the Duggar family lives frugally, is debt-free and pays their fair share into the tax system, community and the unfortunate, thanks to their successful businesses and generous donations to others. I may not agree with their beliefs entirely, but I can't fault them for having them. Their Evangelical Christian religion takes the Bible quite literally and they believe that not only should they go forth and multiply to produce a home filled with soldiers for Christ, but also that God will never give them more than they can handle. Their children are well-mannered, giving, bright, funny and sweet. They are accepting of others, even those who live in ways seen as ungodly, yet do not judge.

The Duggars continually demonstrate tremendous grace under pressure and have stood up well against the ignorant, rude and just downright nasty people who feel it necessary to try and take this family down.

You don't have to agree with them, you don't even have to respect them, but please, before you choose to comment about them, take a step back and ask if you would have the nerve and lack of heart and soul to say those very same comments in their presence.

The wonderful world of the Internet gives us all the ability to be anonymous, but that doesn't grant the right to be bullies, jerks and asses too.

Octomom – Too Little Too Late?

Nadya Sulemon, eight months behind on her mortgage payments, has finally decided to to pose almost nude to help save her home. No doubt she regrets not taking the initial offer of a cool million from Vivid Entertainment to show off her goods, considering she is taking a tremendous pay cut now, only getting $10K for the topless shots.

Yes, Vivid wanted Nadya to engage in some hardcore porn, but at the time Nadya refused only because she believed her celebrity could get her much more money for far less effort. When the offers never came in, Nadya spent the last year eking out an existence doing interviews and talk shows. Nadya's biggest issue, however, stems from the fact that once she put herself out there and opened her mouth, most lost interest in her quickly.

Nadya spent many interviews giggling uncontrollably, giving insipid and often unintelligible answers to questions, and when presented with actual job offers, complete with childcare arrangements, the Octomom had every excuse in the book why “work” simply wouldn't work for her. It was obvious Nadya was looking for one thing only, a sugar daddy, and when none appeared willing to ingrain themselves in an instant family and then some, Nadya caved and showed off her Octobod at a bargain basement price.

Now I shouldn't scold the woman, she at least made an effort to sell her home, valued at $500K for only  $25K more than it was worth because her children had added some valuable art work to the walls.

The economy really must suck when a poor mother of 14 children can't sell her celebrity hovel or get more than $10,000 for showing off her fun bags.

Dennis Rodman Forced To Party To Pay Child Support

Another refugee from Dr. Drew's “Celebrity Rehab” falls off the wagon. Not that Dennis Rodman was ever actually on the wagon to start. Despite Dr. Drew's best efforts, he really never could get a convincing admission from Dennis that he had a problem, specifically alcoholism, and even though Dennis agreed to live in “Sober House,” yet another reality show hosted by Dr. Drew Pinsky, Dennis did not take the process seriously.

After the end of his basketball career, Dennis had been able to make a living doing commentator gigs, guest star roles on major television series and a string of reality shows. He appeared on “Celebrity Big Brother,” “Celebrity Love Island” and “The Apprentice” to name just a few, along with numerous appearances on the late night talk show circuit.

The problem Dennis has experienced is not unlike every other celebrity and sports super star once they stop doing what they did to become famous in the first place...they are very quickly forgotten. Brett Favre anyone? Dennis's career was reduced to paid host at a variety of clubs. Does, and can, the man make some money partying? Sure, but the environment is not exactly what a raging alcoholic needs, especially one who tends to spend more in a night than he earns for his personal appearance fee.

Now $800K in the hole for back child support, it looks like Dennis may actually be facing some serious jail time if he can't pay up. Is it possible that an extended stay in the slammer will help?

Wednesday Night DVR Workout

Wednesday night in my house is full-on Reality Fest. It starts with “Survivor” and “American Idol” at 7:00, “Interior Therapy With Jeff Lewis” at 8:00, 9:00 is the time for “The Challenge: Battle of the Exes” and “Million Dollar Listing New York.” “Duck Dynasty” gets tossed into the mix as does “Couples Therapy,” where the very bottom of the C, D and F-list celebs are shacking up to get help with their relationship problems.

Spike Lee Forces Elderly Florida Couple From Their Home

Spike Lee might want to do a little better job investigating before re-tweeting anything again. Thanks to Spike's lack of effort to confirm allegations, and in his zeal to hunt down George Zimmerman, currently in hiding after the shooting of Trayvon Martin, he readily re-tweeted an address initially posted by a Marcus Davonne Higgins claiming it belonged to THE George Zimmerman, to his 240,000 Twitter followers – nice! The address, however, did NOT belong to THE George Zimmerman, but to an elderly couple who have a son named William George Zimmerman, who hadn't lived with them since 1995. The couple, having already received death threats, were forced to leave their home until the mess is straightened out.

Spike, I implore you to take a step back and see that you are becoming the very thing you claim to abhor, acting in the same manner as those you have fought against. You claim that what George Zimmerman did was nothing but vigilante justice, you claim to despise vigilante justice, but it is OK when you want to engage in it? Then it's magically fine and dandy as long as it is for what you deem as the right reason?

How many more victims is this crime going to claim? Do you think the McClain's, the elderly couple who got uprooted from their home, will ever feel safe in it again? Would you?

I don't blame Davonne, the junior detective who obviously possesses far less skill than The Hardy Boys, for initially tweeting the wrong address. Like most average Twitter users, he probably has a small handful of followers, but I do blame you, Spike, for using absolutely no discretion and no common sense in putting the address out to your 240,000 followers without checking the facts. You may have deleted the tweet, but it never should have been posted in the first place.

Best Food On A Stick EVER

The fine folks at Unilever, the very same company best known as the makers of Noxzema, Vaseline and a wide variety of other personal care products are the very same folks behind the latest object of my desire...

I should have known since Unilever is also the manufacturer for Ben & Jerry's (love that Chunky Monkey!), Breyers, Klondike and the Good Humor line of frozen treats. With the Magnun line of ice cream bars, Unilever has completely outdone themselves on every level. Quality ingredients are apparent and while the ice cream bar is small, it is immensely rich and satisfying. In fact, I just had one for lunch and have no doubt I can make it until dinner – not something I can usually say after a salad!

DWTS Features Sugarland On March 27th Results Show

While Dancing With The Stars resisted the temptation to feature political or otherwise controversial celebrities for their latest season, it seems they couldn't resist sticking their toe in the dangerous waters just a little bit by having Sugarland perform on last night's results and elimination show.

Sugarland, the country duo of Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush, mainly known for pumping out hits on the country music charts, crossed over to the land of pop with their catchy song “All I Want To Do.”

More recently, however, Sugarland is known for the tragedy that took place at the Indiana State Fair when weather conditions, and some contend, the band's lack of concern for the welfare of their fans in attendance at their concert on August 13^th of 2011, put fans in the first row of seats at the venue in grave danger.

High winds caused the stage to blow over onto the first rows of concert-goers resulting in numerous injuries and seven deaths. Sugarland claims it was an act of God and they simply are not responsible, but the contract Sugarland presents gives them the ultimate choice to cancel due to inclement weather conditions.

Sugarland did host a free benefit concert in Indiana 10 weeks after the tragedy that added greatly to the already million-dollar plus relief fund for those affected by the incident.

Sugarland performed twice on “Dancing With The Stars” last night and were very well received. Was the performance an endorsement of their innocence on the part of ABC? Hard to say, but the timing seemed to be perfect as both Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush are slated to appear in court early next month.

How Did I Manage To Miss “16 And Pregnant?”

First off, let me start by saying, I am not exactly a fan of the concept of this MTV television show, at least not its earliest incarnations of it. With that being said, I have been a faithful viewer since the first season and have also followed “Teen Mom.”

Now that I have my DVR set to record a repeat of the latest season premiere, I did a little search on what the previous mothers featured in this series have been up to since their seasons of “16 and Pregnant” and a couple of follow-up years on “Teen Mom,” hit the airways.

The first two seasons of “16 and Pregnant” followed the lives of several girls as they dealt with the issues that come along with teen pregnancy. While it seems true that teen mothers tend to breed more teen mothers, seeing the perks offered by MTV to those unfortunate enough to be in that situation seemed to spawn a few of their own as well. Several of the young women featured had friends and family members that magically turned up pregnant, in hopes that MTV would find their stories as compelling and offer them the chance at fame and a nice paycheck.

For the girls whose lives were further showcased on “Teen Mom,” that meant the biggest payday of all because the mothers were given a hefty salary for that show themselves, without the majority having to be put in trust for their children.

Amber Portwood, one of the hottest messes of all the mothers featured, had to report her salary to a judge in court back in 2010 (not sure if this was for the domestic violence charges against her, fraud or those pesky drug charges) and the grand total for this “poor teen mom” was $280,000.

I do believe, however, that MTV may have seen the error of their ways. After the first couple of seasons of “16 and Pregnant,” they seemed to stop offering the “Teen Mom” gig to the girls, replacing that series instead with a simple follow-up show to check-in on the girls and their children.

Or maybe MTV realized that besides giving great incentive for young teens to get knocked up, it was also incredibly difficult for the general public to muster up much sympathy for a gang of teen girls that were consistently shown enjoying days at the spa, new cars, new apartments, designer bags, vacation trips and breast enhancement surgery.

Waging Battle With My 4-Pound Yorkie

My dog, a little 4-pound Yorkshire Terrier, who prefers to remain anonymous, but for the sake of my sanity, we will call Mr. Schnapps, suffers from a rare form of SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). Mr. Schnapps is not depressed by any means, but various weather conditions affect him in other ways.

And that is why it is just a smidge before 5 AM here and I am on poop patrol. Mr. Schnapps was just out, but because it is a bit windy, he refused to do his business outside. He also has trouble when it is rainy, snowy, icy, etc. Mr. Schnapps always manages to do number one outdoors, no matter the weather, and for that, I am eternally grateful, but he is a bit more selective about what conditions he needs for an optimal number two experience.

I have tried setting up shelter outside for Mr. Schnapps, but this dog needs room for his poo ritual that I just can't accommodate. He circles to the left in ever-narrowing circles and then repeats the circles in the opposing direction. I'd estimate the circling portion of his routine can take close to 20 minutes and if anything should distract him (insects are especially fascinating), we must start the whole schpiel all over again.

Mr. Schnapps has learned, however, that he can forgo the circling and cut the process down to mere seconds if he uses the antique Turkish rug situated beneath the dining room table as home base. I'm sure he also appreciates the fact that the dining room is free of the weather conditions that hamper him outside, with no pesky distractions either.

And thus it becomes a battle of wills...which one of us will hold off longer. Mr. Schnapps keeps a watchful eye on me, waiting for the opportunity to do his business as soon as I give up and go back to bed.

 

Mega Millions Winning Numbers Reveal That I Can't Retire Just Yet

So obviously I was just warming up and now that the next drawing for Mega Millions will be for an estimated $476 MILLION, I am definitely going to win it on Friday. Yes folks, not a single ticket matched to pay out the already huge $363 million jackpot so the frenzy starts again!

Did you see the winning numbers? I caught the Mega number on my local news, but then after trying to access the Mega Millions website and my own state lottery site to see the full set of drawn numbers, and finding them both too busy to even get access, I headed off to slumber land. It was especially difficult since I had at least one line with the Mega number!

For those who missed it, the Mega Millions Winning Numbers for March 27^th were:

09 19 34 44 51 MEGA BALL 24 and BONUS MULTIPLIER = 3

I had all of the numbers...unfortunately, not all appeared on the same line. It looks like my retirement investment paid out a whopping $2 that I will reinvest in a couple of tickets for the next drawing.

It will be much more satisfying winning Friday's jackpot, which will pay out either $476 million over the course of the next 26 years or the winner (me!) can take a lump sum payment of $341 million. Not that the annual payments wouldn't be nice, but I would much prefer to have the money in hand as soon as possible, and figure that the interest I will earn on a well-invested chunk of it will more than make up for the loss of the $135 million for choosing the cash option.

It's going to be a long couple of days as I wait for the next drawing and continue work on my ultimate shopping list!

Hope You Bought Your Mega Millions Tickets!

Drawing tonight! Don't be too disappointed when you don't win.  I'm certain I have the winning numbers in my hot little hands!

Time to enjoy some "Dancing With The Stars" recap and results shows!!

Alicia Silverstone Proves She Needs Parenting Classes ASAP

Just when I think I am done ranting for the day, and doing my best to try and get into my personal Zen zone, I have to view the video posted by Alicia Silverstone of her feeding her 10-month-old son, Bear Blu (that should be popular in school), by chewing his food in her own mouth and then semi-spitting it into Bear's mouth. Alicia reports that Bear just goes crazy when he sees her eating anything and races over to “attack” her mouth to get a snack for himself.

This is just disgusting on so many levels...

The kid attacks her mouth. Dear Lord, the last time I heard or read such a reference was in a trashy Jackie Collins' book, and the action was performed between two consenting adults...not a 10-month-old and his mother.

Where did Alicia get the information that this practice would benefit her child in any way? The Audubon Society magazine? A veterinarian guide? I bet that's it! Alicia, a practicing vegan, probably thought she was reading a guide for vegetarians when she picked up the latest issue of “Veterinary Practice News.”

Or maybe we should feel sorry for Alicia. Perhaps her residuals from “Clueless” finally ran out and she is unable to pay her electric bill to power up the blender for little Bear Blu's food.

What happens when she goes out to dinner with the kid is what I'd like to know. Will he only “attack” mommy's mouth, or is any filled pie-hole worthy of sucking the nutrition out of?

File under YUCK of the Day...

Country Duo “The Line” Gets The Ax From “The Voice”

I typically enjoy NBC's “The Voice” reality singing competition. It differs from “American Idol” in a few ways, most notably that none of the contestants are purposely shown because they are awful, and none of the judges/mentors are able to see any of those auditioning – they can only hear their voices initially as the singers try and perform their way onto one of the mentors' teams. Mentors include Cee Lo Green, Christina Aguilera, Blake Shelton and Adam Levine. Sometimes only one mentor will turn their chair around claiming a contestant for their own and other times, all four may be impressed enough to turn their chairs and try and get a particular singer on their team.

The judges/team mentors are allowed to choose 12 singers initially (with duos counting as one choice) and downright begging often ensues for the more popular singers to choose one mentor over the others. Promises are made by all of the judges to those singers that they will be taken to the end of the competition, given every bit of help needed, really, quite a lot of schmoozing that the younger singers, all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, fully believe.

This is where things get ugly.

You see, each mentor can really only go into the actual competition with six team members and the process to narrow the field are the preliminary “Battle Rounds” that pit one team member against another, singing together on stage for the right to remain on their respective mentor's team. Sometimes the process was fair – country singer vs. country singer, rock-n-roller against rock-n-roller, but more often than not, the competition was heavily skewed in favor of one contestant over the other to the point that all the favored of the two contestants had to do was show up and breathe, and he or she was in, while the other was forced to sing six octaves out of range or in a genre that just happened to be the specialty of their opponent.

I understand the mentors need to have the best people on their teams, but it was difficult watching last night's final battle rounds, when some pairings were so obviously in favor of one contestant over another. So much for the promises. The mentors all act like the decisions are so difficult, but I think they fear being called out more than anything and I believe that was very close to happening last night when male and female country singing duo, “The Line” was put up against the show's first singing/rapping MC and given a Rolling Stones song to perform. Contestants work together to divide the song up into different parts with the help of their mentors. “The Line” walked away with almost all chorus, while the MC got to belt out the song in his style, adding in some rap (which yes, was very good, in fact, it was the only good part of the whole hot mess they presented on stage) and couldn't help but to win the battle when the country duo ended up looking like a couple of Lawrence Welk background singers. I'm not a huge country music fan (sorry, Blake Shelton) and my preference from the start would have been to choose the MC, but I was not a fan of the obvious favoritism and neither was Hailey, the female half of “The Line” who refused to comment after the heart-breaking defeat. Typically, the losing contestants are put on the spot and forced to say a few words and all inevitably thank their mentor for the "opportunity," but my guess is that Hailey wasn't exactly feeling all too thankful for the opportunity Christina Aguilera gave her to look like an idiot on stage.

Christina seemed to think the whole performance was super neato-peachy keen and then, when the other mentors chimed in saying that despite the beyond odd song choice, “The Line” possessed the singing ability that Moses, the MC didn't, and would be their choice in Christina's position. Christina, in that horrendous hat that must have had her channeling beings from outer space, then declared that sometimes “The Voice” really wasn't about singing. Um...okay, what did I miss? You call the show “The Voice,” the mentors have nothing but a voice to base their initial decisions on, but now it isn't about singing or voices at all?

Christina, please, I implore you, take off that ridiculous hat! It seems to be blocking intelligent thought from entering your cranium.

Ridiculous Battle Rages Over Bully Movie Rating

How absolutely ludicrous! The Motion Picture Association of America has decided, in its infinite wisdom, to give the documentary, “Bully,” an R rating which will prohibit the very kids who need to see this film from setting foot inside the theater without their mom or dad plastered to their side.

Originally given a PG rating in America, with a strong warning about the language, the MPAA has changed its mind and determined that the film, that follows the lives of a handful of young adults over the course of a year as they were bullied, contained too much bad language and had to be rated R. “Bad language” being much of what is typically spoken and heard in every American home in the country and the same exact “bad language” the bullies employed the use of in their systematic torture of their victims.

Crazily enough, the bullies featured in the film, who all happily consented to appear, and used the “bad language,” will not be able to see the movie without escort from a parent or guardian. We wouldn't want the little thugs to actually hear the words that come out of their own mouths, you know!

Teens in Canada will have no problem seeing “Bully.” Their Consumer Protection Board, that oversees film ratings in each province, gave the film a PG rating. And since there is no PG-13 designation used in Canada, would not the next most logical rating there have been an R IF the film were that objectionable? Of course it would have, IF “Bully” were as disturbing as the MPAA and the Parents Television Council would have you believe.

“Bully” should be required viewing for those in the 13 and above crowd. The language may be coarse, but it is real and it is what victims of bullying are subjected to on a daily basis.

Please take a moment and sign the petition imploring the MPAA to give the film a PG-13 rating instead of an R: http://www.change.org/petitions/mpaa-don-t-let-the-bullies-win-give-bully-a-pg-13-instead-of-an-r-rating

Bobby Brown Arrested Again...Is That Really Any Surprise?

Taking bets now that Bobby Brown will soon be making an appearance on Dr. Drew's “Celebrity Rehab” show. I actually wish he would, and I really wish that it would help. The only time I have seen even a glimmer of the “real” Bobby Brown was when he wasn't drinking (as much) or under the influence of some other mind-bending concoction of weed, cocaine, crack and heroin. And while he has managed to put the drugs aside, having been an alcoholic from early adolescence on, he just can't seem to get that completely under control.

Bobby's “My Prerogative” was a hit with the freshman crowd while I was a junior in college. Catchy, and admittedly, quite danceable, but until I caught Bobby on a few episodes of his ill-fated reality show, “Being Bobby Brown,” I just could not put a face to the song. The train wreck that was “Being” held my interest long enough for me to perfect my one-word Whitney Houston impersonation of “BAH-BE,” that is still requested within my circle of friends and family.

Would Bobby be more apt to get help if it furthered his celebrity? I met him a couple of years ago as he came off his stint on “Celebrity Fit Club.” He was friendly, affable and enjoyable, and more sober than he had been in a good amount of time. He was proud of his accomplishments on the show, almost beaming like a child as he showed off his weight loss. But it seemed that pride would be short-lived as he returned to his normal life, the constant kudos turning to the chronic accusations that it was all his fault that Whitney turned into the mess she had, even years after the dissolution of their marriage.

Hard to get past the legacy claiming that you were personally responsible for the death of America's favorite singing crackhead.