Robin Lee Hatcher's Write Thinking

idol 7: from 5 to 4

So I'm getting into one of my two torture ... er ... traction devices at the chiropractor, and I told him I just was not ready for Jason to go home, so I hoped the fans over ruled the judges. (By the way, I texted a bunch of votes for him.) The young gal in another device said, "I love Jason too. He's my favorite." And one of the comments on yesterday's post said something like: "I would buy albums by Jason and Brooke, but not David or David." Yes, I think that it is it for me too.

Well, my votes must have been good for something because Jason was the first one over to the sofa. Yea!!! I literally did a shout out! David A was the next one over to the sofa. No surprise there.

Long promo for So You Think You Can Dance that starts in May. Yes, I watch that show too. I guess I'm hooked on these competitions that featured talented young folks reaching for their dreams.

David C was pulled out next. I immediately thought that would mean he was in the bottom two. But I was wrong. He was sent to the sofa.

So Ryan brought out Syesha and Brooke. But we were only at the halfway point in the hour. That meant, in addition to a Neil Diamond performance, we were in for at least 20 minutes of filler. (They really could cut the result show to half an hour now that we're down to so few contestants.)

Natasha Bedingfield was a guest performer. I don't know why she was a guest, but it was enjoyable enough. I, of course, had/have no idea who she is but I guess she's had a few hits and she's British. Afterward, she sat down with the kids and kissed David A on the cheek.

And then we went to the really lame call-in questions. I read that these calls and answers actually happen before the live show. Okay, gotta say that I liked the call from Simon's crush, Tara. They kissed when he was 9 years old. Awww. Wasn't that sweet?

Neil Diamond sang Pretty Amazing Grace, a song that was new to me. I really liked it. Guess I'll have to bop over to ITunes. FYI, the tune is available as a single. The new album, Home Before Dark, which that song is part of, releases on May 6.

The wait was over at last (about five minutes to the hour). And the contestant who is going home tonight was: Brooke. (Lots of tears, as is normal with her.) She seemed to be expecting it. This girl sometimes irritated me with her talking back or over the judges. But she has lots of good qualities and a boatload of talent. I'm sorry to see her go.

Brooke, I'm wishing you much success, and I promise to buy your album when it comes out.

UNchristian

I wrote about UNchristian once before on my blog. I bought it as soon as I heard about it last fall, but I confess I haven't read it yet. Never enough time for everything I want to read. You know how it is.

Here is an excellent CNN interview with Gabe Lyons, one of the authors, that has convinced me I need to get this book off my shelf and get it read:

Gabe Lyons has also done a promo video for Chuck Colson's new book/small group study, The Faith. This also sounds like a must read. Anything that Chuck Colson does, in my humble opinion, is worth reading. I love what Lyons says about the true Christian faith being "winsome" when it's the real thing. That is so true but it is so not how we are viewed all too often.

-rlh-

Idol 7: the 5 perform

Somewhere around 15 years ago, I went with some gal pals to Salt Lake City to attend a Neil Diamond concert. I've got to say, it was one of the best live performances I've ever attended. And I say that despite the fact that we were seated in the nosebleed section of the venue, which felt like it was a minimum of a mile high. Anyway, love Mr. Diamond's tunes.

Two songs tonight and no judging until after the second song. Interesting format.

Jason, with guitar, started off the night with Forever in Blue Jeans. I thought it was a perfect song for his style and voice. I liked it a lot.

David C., with guitar, sang Alive. Or maybe it was I'm Alive. Not sure, and I wasn't too crazy about the song. It just didn't ring my chimes nor did his performance. I'm not sure it was wise to go with something so unfamiliar.

Brooke, with guitar, went for I'm a Believer. Hmm. Love the song, but I wasn't crazy about the performance. Despite being a snappy version and lots of smiles, it all felt rather lackluster or something. Not great.

Note: I miss the judge's immediate feedback. Which surprises me a little since sometimes they upset me. And the night feels very rushed, too. Not a good sign when we are only three songs out of ten into the night.

David A. sang Sweet Caroline. It was okay but I'm not wowed.

Syesha was next up with Hello Again. I thought it was lovely though I probably won't remember it next week (if that makes sense).

Time for a quick critique from the judges: Randy didn't say much. Paula really blew it by critiquing Jason's first and second song even though he sang only one, then tried to say she was talking about David C's performance (which made no sense after she said "I thought you sang twice"). Simon ripped into all of them and said they'd better turn it up in their second numbers.

Jason is back, sans guitar, to sing September Morn. I thought he did a great job right up until the last two words. Randy said it was okay. Paula thought it was safe. Simon said he was forgettable. In other words, they were pretty down on him. Still, I'd say he is still my favorite of the night so far. (Nobody has been very inspired.)

David C. returned with his guitar to sing All I Really Need is You. Ho hum. The judges really liked it. Maybe I need my ears cleaned.

Next up was Brooke on the piano for I Am I Said. Good job, Brooke. I liked this. Not my favorite Brooke performance of the season but quite good. Judges love it.

David A. sang America. It's one of those songs that gets an audience on their feet. Changed it up a little, and it worked for him. Judges agreed.

Last up was Syesha with Thank the Lord for the Night Time. Well, well, well. Two weeks in a row, Syesha gave one of my favorite performances. Randy loved it. Paula babbled. Simon liked it but thought she could be in trouble. Hmm. That surprised me.

Wrap-up: Going by the judges' comments alone, Jason could be in the most danger. For me, I think any of them could go home, based on one performance or another. Since there are only five left, it could be a real toss up. I don't think there is a clear front runner as there has been in past years.

Tomorrow should be interesting.

-rlh-

films that make you tear up

This afternoon, TCM (one of my favorite channels) had on The Natural. Even better, they had it on in widescreen, the only way to really enjoy movies made since the invention of Cinemascope. Anyway, I love this movie. There is just something about it.

No matter how many times I've seen it, I still tear up when Roy Hobbs connects with that ball at the end of the movie and it soars across the field and shatters the lights and sparks go flying everywhere. In fact, I can chance upon just the last five minutes of The Natural and still tear up over that scene. It just does that to me.

So what about you? Are there any movies that you can see time and time again and they still make you cry?

-rlh-

hot off the press

Yesterday the cover for Bundle of Joy (Steeple Hill, Oct. 2008) arrived via USPS, and now, much to my surprise, a hot off the press copy of Wagered Heart (Zondervan, June 2008) was delivered by UPS. I was originally told Wagered Heart wouldn't go to press until May with a ship date of 5/18. Looks like the book could be in stores a week or two earlier than at first thought.

Pardon me for my excitement, but I'm so in love with this cover. Totally different from the adorable little baby on Bundle of Joy, of course, but perfect for the historical romance that it is. You can read an excerpt of Wagered Heart on my web site, but here's the blurb:

When Bethany Silverton left the genteel life of Miss Henderson’s School for Young Ladies back in Philadelphia for the raw frontier town of Sweetwater, Montana, she had no idea how much she would enjoy the freedom and danger of this wild country.

A conservative preacher’s daughter, Bethany can’t resist the challenge of charming the most attractive cowboy in town into attending her father’s new church. She never dreamed that the cowboy would charm the lady.

But Hawk Chandler isn't the only man vying for Bethany's affections. Ruthlessly ambitious Vince Richards thinks Bethany is perfect for him: attractive, gracious, just the woman to help him become governor. And he is determined to get what he wants at any cost.

Drawn to one man, an obsession of another, Bethany's quiet life is thrown into turmoil. She wagered her heart on love. Now she has gotten more than she bargained for—and the stakes are about to become life and death.

To top off both of these pleasures, the writing on MW is going well. Yea!!! At this stage, possibilities abound. The setting for the story is 1915 which is a fun period to write about. The one bad note in all this is that I wish I had back some of the research books I gave away prior to my move last year. I could use them now. C'est la vie!

-rlh-

Bundle of Joy

The mailman brought me a treat today. The cover flat for my October release, Bundle of Joy. (Click to see a slightly larger version.) Doesn't this little guy make you feel like giggling? He's so cute! I want to reach out and take him in my arms.

Bundle of Joy will be my final contemporary for a while, and I am so very fond of it. I hope readers will love it as much as I do. I'm convinced they'll love the cover.

What do you think?

-rlh-

Update: In case you can't tell (but I bet you can), Bundle of Joy is a Christmas romance. {{grin}} More about this book will be posted as the release date gets closer.

new words on paper

The first three and a half months of this year have been all about the rewriting, revising, editing, and proofing of three different manuscripts — books that will release in May and October 2008 and January 2009. I gotta tell you. I was growing sick to death of existing words and the need to fix them, delete them, rearrange them, rethink them, yada, yada, ad nauseam.

Well, today I finally got to work on a new book (first in an historical romance series), and it felt great. Sure, there will be moments when my mind is blank and I haven't a clue what to write next. In fact, there will be lots of those moments, occasionally several times a day. But there will also be those moments when I'm lost in the story and it has all the potential in the world to be what I want it to be.

I haven't discussed titles with my publisher yet, so I will refer to the book for now as MW. It's set in 1915, and my hero and heroine are both running for mayor of their town. You know that sparks are going to fly! I am already enormously fond of Gwen and Morgan and will enjoy seeing their romance develop in the coming weeks.

I spent a little time today working on the Marketing Information Form for MW, including looking for possible costumes for women for the cover. I didn't find quite what I was looking for but do have a few samples to get the cover folks started.

Well, it's about time to call it a night. With luck, my subconscious will keep working and I'll awake with some fresh ideas and insights.

-rlh-

idol 7: from 6 to 5

Results night. The two Davids went straight to the safe couch. No surprise there.

Next out were Brooke and Syesha. Surprise: It was Syesha who went to the danger stool. Funny, I was talking about it with my chiropractor today, and I said, "It could be Syesha who leaves after she had one of her best ever performances. It's happened before."

Next surprise: Carly went to the danger stool and Jason went to the safe couch.

I picked the bottom three last night and only got one right, Carly — and she isn't the one I really expected to be there if there were only two seats.

Both of the bottom two sang their songs from last night. I still didn't like Carly's performance. Too much shouting, too little melody. And I still loved Syesha's performance. (And while Syesha was singing, Carly was off to the side talking the whole time to Ryan. How rude!) I liked that they did this. I always think having the Idols sing after they've been voted off borders on cruel.

And it was Carly who went home. This young woman has a beautiful voice, and it's too bad she never quite connected, personality-wise, with the audience. But who knows what success still awaits her? She definitely has the talent.

Best wishes, Carly!

Idol 7: the 6 perform

I'm late again. Had an HOA meeting, then was on grandma duty, chauffeuring Grandson #2 to and from soccer. Then it was home to the DVR for Andrew Lloyd Weber night. I'm a huge Broadway musical fan, so I was looking forward to seeing how the kids did this week.

---

Syesha came out with One Rock and Roll Too Many. Wow! Way to go Syesha. Hot tonight. Judges loved it too. If only she had a string of performances like this one.

Jason chose to sing Memory. He said in advance he was very nervous. I rather liked it. Not my favorite performance of his, but rather well done. He didn't try to over sing it or power out anything. Randy and Simon were pretty down on him (Randy called it a "train wreck" and Simon thought he "struggled"). I liked it better than they did.

Brooke sang You Must Love Me, and did a false start. (After singing several lines: "Sorry," she says to the band leader. "Could we start over?") Ack! That's just so wrong at this stage of the game. When singing the low notes, it was almost painful. Not a great night for fair Brooke.

David A. chose Think of Me from Phantom. Good advice from Weber to keep his eyes open, and David did. Very good. Randy and Paula thought it perfect. Simon called it pleasant but forgettable. I tend to agree with Simon on this one. It will get him through to next week but won't be remembered as one of his super performances.

Carly chose a song from Phantom that Weber nixed and switched to Jesus Christ Superstar. She definitely had fun with it, but I found it mostly "shouted" rather than sung. Left me mostly flat. Sorry!

David C. went with Music of the Night. Surprising choice. My goodness! The boy carried it off. I think of him as a bluesy, rock singer, but I saw some new strengths here. Really fabulous. I like him more all the time.

---

My final thoughts: Syesha was the winner tonight followed closely by David C. I'd say Brooke is in danger and probably Jason in jeopardy beside her, although I texted quite a few votes for him because I'm not ready to see him go just yet. I would put Carly in the bottom three for this night's performances.

more on Expelled

I didn't make it to see Expelled on Friday as I'd hoped, so I am going this afternoon. If I have anything intelligent to say, I'll either post again or add a comment here. Several of my writer friends (a physicist and a lawyer included -- in other words, better brains than I have) have been very praiseworthy about the documentary, both the quality of the film itself and the fairness with which it addresses the topic. Certainly more fair than those who want to silence any discussion.

Here's a very interesting piece by David Klinghoffer that's worth reading: 

This movie is, in fact, about the professional ostracism visited today on American scientists who doubt that undirected natural selection can fully explain life’s development. They are academics at places like the Smithsonian Institution, Iowa State University, and Baylor University. Droll comic-actor Ben Stein stars, interviewing the researchers.

But for about ten minutes, Expelled touches on Darwinism’s historical social costs, notably the unintended contribution to Nazi racial theories. That part packs an emotional wallop. It also happens to be based on impeccable scholarship.

The Darwin-Hitler connection is no recent discovery. In her classic 1951 work The Origins of Totalitarianism, Hannah Arendt wrote: “Underlying the Nazis’ belief in race laws as the expression of the law of nature in man, is Darwin’s idea of man as the product of a natural development which does not necessarily stop with the present species of human being.”

Go read the entire article here.

-rlh-

funny catz

For a lot of years, I owned cats. Cats are great pets to have if you travel because they can manage awhile without anyone looking in on them. Cat boxes, on the other hand, can get very old. So when my last cat had to be put to sleep at the age of 16 1/2, I decided dogs would be the only pets in my future. Daughter #1 and her family have two cats, so if I need a cat fix, I can always go to their house. It was Granddaughter #1 who showed me this funny cat video. The beginning is slow and the music a tad obnoxious, but hang in there. It is worth watching.

So did you laugh?
-rlh-

the Amazon Kindle

Yesterday at noon, I finished my next book and shot it off to my editor. (Yes!!!!!) As if in reward, FedEx delivered my latest toy ... er ... writer's research tool — the Amazon Kindle.

About six weeks ago, after hearing and reading lots of good feedback about the Kindle book reader, I watched the short video on Amazon's site, and I was finally convinced that the Kindle would be an excellent addition to my library. So I placed my order. Amazon has been running way behind on filling orders almost since the beginning (November 2007, I think). Supposedly that situation is already changing, but I had to wait five and a half weeks to receive mine. In the meantime, I joined a Yahoo Group of over 1000 members so that I could be learning tips from other users.

I have never been particularly interested in ebook readers. When I owned a Pocket PC, I read a little on it, but only in a pinch. It was nice to have the Bible on it, I admit. However, the ebook reader has come a long way over the years, and the idea that I could have a lot of books in one 10 oz machine that doesn't give me eye strain was too good to pass up. One thing I heard several times about the Kindle was that users are reading more books than before. I have fallen so far behind in reading over the last few years, so this was very encouraging to me. I want and need to read more. Research books, reference books, books on the craft of writing fiction, other writers' novels — they all are important in my life, both for pleasure and for work.

After plugging the Kindle in and letting it charge yesterday afternoon, I downloaded a number of books, some at very marked down prices. Much less than they would cost me in traditional book form. I have been meaning to read all of Jane Austen's books this year. It has been way, way too long since I actually read an Austen novel. Complete Illustrated Novels by Jane Austen for the Kindle cost me $4.79. You can't beat that except in a used bookstore.

The biggest danger I can see with the Kindle is the ease of ordering. I will have to watch my spending, and not buy a lot of new books before I've read what I have on the Kindle already.

I took the Kindle to bed with me last night and began reading 90 Minutes in Heaven: A True Story of Death & Life by Don Piper. It's been recommended to me a number of times. I found the Kindle easy to read as I lay in bed. I rested it on the book pillow I use and read for a long time before turning out the light.

The picture with this blog shows the size. The novel is a standard trade paperback. They're very comparable in size, as you can see.

I'll post about the Kindle again after it has had a longer test run.

-rlh-

idol 7: from 7 to 6

On this results night, rather than identifying the bottom three one at a time, Ryan sent contestants to his right and his left. By the break we had Jason and Carly on his left and David C and Kristy Lee on his right. Hmm. Which group is at the top, which at the bottom? Kristy Lee is so often in the bottom three that I couldn't help expecting that those to the right of Ryan are the bottom group. Then again, both Jason and Carly have been in the bottom three at least once so...

Elliott Yamin sang. He looks so different these days. Dental work and a different hairdo and a beard. He was one of my favorites from the past. I'm delighted that he seems to be doing so well. But a sad note: he just lost his beloved mom.

My guess, as they returned to the results, was that they would send out David A last because wherever he went would give things away. I was right. Syesha joined Jason and Carly on the left. Brooke went to the right. Now I decided that the left would be the bottom group. But the show was only half over so plenty more waiting to do.

Next Mariah Carey sang. Fine. Fine. You're a super star. But I want the results!!!

So they called David A from the back, and the questions were racing through our minds. Which way would he go? But he wasn't sent to either side. He was safe. Now what? Oh, Ryan pulls a switcharoo. Syesha traded for David C. Ryan tried to get David A to join the group he thought was safe, but he did a sit down. Then Ryan announced that the guys plus Carly were all safe. (Carly tried to smack Ryan in disbelief but he moved out of the way in time.) So I was right (as were countless others) about last night. It belonged to the guys.

Would Brooke, Syesha, or Kristy Lee go home? My guess as I waited was that it would be Syesha. Would I be right or wrong? Wrong. After one of her strongest performances of the season, Kristy Lee was sent home (and Brooke breaks down in tears, again).

Kristy Lee has had a rocky season, and I sure hope she gets her horse back. I'm wishing her the best. And here's a thumbs up for the moxie it took to sit and sing her exit song to Simon.

-rlh-

Expelled: the documentary

This Friday, April 18, Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed will release in 1000 theaters across America. I know (via email at least) a number of people who have had a chance to get an early viewing, and everyone is saying great things. But the last time I blogged about this, months ago when I first heard of it, I got comments from someone who would like to silence this movie and proclaim that anyone who doesn't believe in evolution or who does believe in intelligent design is an idiot and needs to be silenced. Which is exactly why this documentary was made.

Barbara Nicolosi of Church of the Masses has written a review of Expelled that I encourage you to take a moment to read. Here's one part to note:

The film doesn't deserve the attacks it is getting and deserves to be seen widely and brooded over. It is anything but a right-wing, Christian hit piece, and from a craft standpoint, it is entertaining, funny and very respectful of the audience.

Now, go see the documentary this weekend. Opening weekends are so important in the society we live in. I'm planning to take off Friday afternoon to see it.

-rlh-

idol 7: the 7 perform

This is a late post as I was on grandmother duty, driving Grandson #2 to and from soccer practice. Chewed up better than three hours of the evening.

David A kicked off Mariah Carey week with When You Believe. I thought he did a fine job with a really tough song. Missed a bit in the falsetto attempt. I love this song. One of my favorites from Prince of Egypt, and it worked surprisingly well from a guy. The judges loved it.

Carly (dressed very tastefully and less like an angry biker chick) sang Without You (which was around before Mariah, I'm sure). Much better than last week. I liked the first part best before she tried to power it, but the power part was good, too.

Syesha chose to sing Fantasy and looked lovely in gold. Hmm. Maybe I'm tired and cranky, but I thought it was a mess. The judges loved it much better than I did, that's for sure.

Next up was Brooke with Hero. She, too, was dressed elegantly. That must have been the dress code for the night. She does a good job accompanying herself on the piano. (I always think she does better when she's got an instrument to play.) I thought it was good. Not a wow, but solid. Judges gave mixed reviews and the chatter got out of hand.

Kristy Lee sang Forever. (And yes, another pretty dress.) Well, well. A rather good performance from Kristy Lee, who has lived in the bottom three from week to week but always escapes disaster. Kudos for surprising me. Simon just has no love for KL.

David C brought us Always Be My Baby. He changed it up quite nicely. Had a few less than stellar moments, but overall this was another of his excellent outings. The judges raved and raved.

Jason brought the evening to a close with I Don't Wanna Cry. No guitar tonight. Very mellow. Very Jason-like. Very good. I loved it. I love this kid. Randy was so-so on it, but Paula and Simon loved it, too.

The guys definitely took the night. No doubt about it.

how to handle rejection

I could not resist sharing this YouTube clip of a writer handling/not handling rejection of his latest novel. I'm told it is from a British comedy series, Black Books, starring Bernard Black. There is a little bit of language that some might find offensive, though nothing terribly "blue," so be advised.

Reminds me once again of one of my favorite movie lines from A Knight's Tale when Chaucer tells some bad guys: "I will eviscerate you in fiction. Every last pimple. Every last character flaw. I was naked for a day. You will be naked for eternity."

-rlh-

Excellent Blog Award

A couple of weeks ago, I learned that Cindy at Notes in the Key of Life had bestowed the Excellent Award to Write Thinking. I kept meaning to blog about it, but hadn't yet found the time. Then this morning, I learned that Curtiss Ann Matlock at Pressing On, who recently discovered my blog, has bestowed it as well. (Tit for tat, Curtiss Ann awarding me the E caused me to discover her blog.)

Deadline being what it is, I still lack the time to ponder who I want to pass along the award to, but here is a quick list of blogs I always enjoy:

Angie at A Life in Pages

Dan at Cerulean Sanctum

Randy at Eternal Perspectives

Kristin, Colleen, Denise, and Diann at Girls Write Out

There are many more blogs in my Bloglines, but this is where I'll begin. Excellent blogs that I highly recommend and upon which I am now bestowing the Excellent Award.

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I am off to get a massage (boy, do I need it), and then it is home to pound out another ten pages. It's going to be tough trying to finish this week (deadline is Tuesday but I may need at least a couple more days). Still I'll give it the old college try.

Spring has arrived this weekend (again). We will have temps in the mid to high 70's. From furnace to AC in a few short days. Well, I won't run the AC. I will open windows and let in the fresh air. Hope it is lovely where you are, too.

-rlh-

idol 7: from 8 to 7

The 8 contestants sang Shout to the Lord at the opening of last night's show, and this time they didn't sing "Shepherd" in place of "Jesus." (Yes, I did go back on the DVR to check, and they did change the word on Wednesday night.)

I think some people misunderstood my last post. I wasn't horrified that they sang this song nor was I indignant. I am always glad to see the Lord's name lifted high. It was just a bit weird and seemed out of place with the rest of the show. However, last night I loved it. It felt a little more natural and less of just a performance, if that makes sense. Oh, and they announced that this was the #1 download on iTunes (wonder which version — Shepherd or Jesus?)

Okay, back to the show. Right off the bat, we learned that one I thought might be vulnerable was safe. Brooke moved right through to the sofa. Good, because I would have been sad to see her go this soon.

Jordan Sparks performed, and it was fun to see her again. And they awarded her with some sales awards.

The bottom three: Syesha, Carly, and Michael. So I guessed two out of the bottom three.

Who went home? It was a shocker. Michael got the fewest votes. And the audience booed and booed. I believe we have reached the place in the competition where the slightest oops, the slightest off performance, the slightest failure to connect with the audience can send a singer home.

Michael, there are a lot of people wishing you well, and I don't think for a moment that this is the end for your singing career. I for one will miss hearing you in these next six weeks.

-rlh-

Idol Gives Back

Did you watch Idol Gives Back last night? Did you give? I did, and I hope they surpass last year's total.

I caught most of the show while I was doing other things. Some of the performances were very good, and Jimmy Kimmel's assault on Simon was hilarious, although the comments about poking out Paula's eyes was over the top and crude. (If you saw it, you know whereof I speak; if you didn't see it, you are better off not knowing.) I was brought to tears with a few of the clips. I was inspired (despite myself) by Brad Pitt. [Note: I read in People Magazine that Pitt and Jolie give over $4 million each year to charity so despite other things about the couple that I cannot respect, I certainly give them kudos for this.]

Dianne asked me: "I'd be interested in hearing what you thought about the finale last night - the final song the Idol contestants sang together. Some Christian number - the name escapes me right now but I thought it was kind of tacky and out of place."

I had gone into my office, thinking the show was over, and then I heard a choir singing, "Shout to the Lord." I thought for sure it was an ad for a worship CD or maybe something on the news, but I returned to the living room to make sure. And there they were, the 8 Idol contestants backed up by a large choir.

So what did I think? Well, it was certainly a song I never expected to hear on American Idol, unless another Mandisa comes along. Stunned would be an appropriate description. And what followed was a feeling that it was inappropriate on Idol Gives Back because it wasn't sung by a group of believers who were truly lifting the Lord's name in praise. I know there is at least one Christian among the contestants, but I'm sure the majority are not followers of Christ. As for the choir, they could be just entertainers or they could be a Christian choir brought in for the night. Hard to know. They backed up Mariah Carey, too. All the same, it was a little disturbing, seeing Carly wrinkle her nose and belt out some lyrics without any regard evident for what she was saying. (That was just one example.)

On the other hand, Jesus might not be as bothered as I was:

Luke 9:49-50 John answered and said, “Master, we saw someone casting out demons in Your name; and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow along with us.” But Jesus said to him, “Do not hinder him; for he who is not against you is for you.”

And, of course, the Bible tells us that if we don't rise up in praise of Him, the very rocks will. The show was telecast all over the world. Maybe if even just one person found their heart responding to the truth it was worth it.

In case you don't know the song, here are those lyrics:

My Jesus, My Savior
Lord there is none like You
All of my days, I want to praise
The wonders of Your mighty love

My Comfort, My Shelter
Tower of refuge and strength
Let every breath, all that I am
Never cease to worship You

Shout to the Lord, all the earth
Let us sing. Power and majesty, praise to the King.
Mountains bow down and the seas will roar
At the sound of Your name
I sing for joy at the work of Your hands
Forever I'll love you, forever I'll stand
Nothing compares to the promise I have in YOU!

So yes, it seemed an odd choice from the Idol producers or whoever made the decision. I wonder if it wasn't uncomfortable for the Idol contestants who aren't believers to sing those lyrics.

Tell me, what do you think?

-rlh-

Rhett Butler's People

I have a short list of books that I have read more than once. One of those books is Margaret Mitchell's Gone with the Wind. I love so many things about the story and the characters. And like thousands of romantic readers before me, I have imagined what happened after Rhett slammed the door of the Butler Atlanta home. In my heart, I've always known that the two were reunited and that Rhett was able to love away that stubborn, selfish streak in Scarlett's heart.

A number of years ago, a publisher tried to give us a sequel — Scarlett by Alexandria Ripley. What a dud! It was contrary to everything that made Scarlett and Rhett, Scarlett and Rhett. Whatever you do, skip this attempt. And it is sad, too, because Ripley has written at least one wonderful Civil War novel: Charleston.

Now comes Rhett Butler's People by Donald McCaig. I bought the book with some trepidation and half expected to be bitterly disappointed once again. Well, guess what? I wasn't disappointed. I loved it. I loved learning more about Rhett's past, what made him who he was. I loved all of the new characters I met and I loved getting to know other characters who had such small parts in the original. McCaig didn't try a major makeover of our dashing leads. I even think Margaret Mitchell would be pleased with this novel.

If you're a fan of Gone With the Wind, I think you'll like this book, too. And if you, like me, always imagined a more romantic ending to Rhett and Scarlett's story, you'll find it here.

-rlh-

where's LOST?

I was so looking forward to a 17 episode uninterrupted season of LOST in the winter/spring of 2008. Then came along the writers' strike. So we got eight episodes this year and are now back to reruns until production catches up (April 24th).

So just in case you need a LOST fix, here is a YouTube video that will bring you up to date and make you laugh a bit.

PREVIOUSLY ON LOST: WHAT?

Now I bet you are really anxious for the show to return. By the way, there are a lot of times that I feel like this video. What?

-rlh-

idol 7: the 8 perform

Thanks to everyone for all the get well wishes. I am much improved and have been writing away. Even got back on the stair stepper today and did 100 sit ups as well. Took a nap immediately after the work out.

The theme on Idol tonight is inspirational songs. Understandable since this is Idol Gives Back week.

Michael kicked off the night with Dream On. Judges gave mixed reviews. Me too.

Syesha was up next with I Believe. Lots of talk about Fantasia, comparisons made. Since I didn't start watching American Idol until after Fantasia, most of it went over my head. I can say I liked it all right but wasn't wowed by the performance.

Next came Jason who chose the ukulele version (and plays one himself) of Over the Rainbow. Oh wow!!! I loved it. One of my favorite songs and a version I love too. Not the same power of Hallelujah, but truly excellent. Simon agreed with me.

Kristy Lee chose one of my favorite country songs by Martina McBride, Anyway. She did a pretty good job with it, too. Not equal to Martina but quite good. Best performance she's had since making the top 12, IMHO. The judges loved it too. Simon even said she looked like a star tonight.

David C. has had a run of high approval (by the judges) weeks, but this week's Innocent sort of broke the chain. I was totally unimpressed with his voice on this. And the backup singers almost totally drowned him out at times. Randy and Simon agreed with me, but Paula, who has been even more weird tonight than usual, thinks he was wonderful.

Carly chose to sing The Show Must Go On. Again with the backup singers overwhelming the contestant. Angry rocker chick thing going on, and I felt it was way over performed and shouted in spots. Basically a mess and certainly not "inspirational."

David A. selected Angels as his inspirational song of the night, and he accompanies himself on the piano. Thankfully the background singers remained in the background. Very nice. This kid has such a mature voice.

Brooke went with You've Got a Friend to close the show. (I used to have the song in my cell phone, assigned to my best friends.) A rather forgettable performance and nothing that made it stand out vocally.

Big winners of the night in my POV? #1 Jason and #2 David A.

Who's in danger? I'd say Syesha, Brooke and Carly are all vulnerable.

We won't find out the results until Thursday. Tomorrow is Idol Gives Back night. See you next time.

-rlh-

sick as a dog

Once upon a time, there was a writer on a deadline. A close deadline and too far to go. The writer, however, was rather optimistic that the deadline, slightly extended, was doable.

But she awoke one Wednesday morning to find her home invaded by a nasty virus. Her 94-year-old mother was the first to fall victim and was bad enough that she had to be taken to the hospital to be rehydrated, IV solutions replacing all of the lost body fluids. No writing that day.

The next day dawned. Mother was feeling somewhat better, so the writer went back to work, thinking one missed day of work wasn't so terrible. But by early afternoon, the virus made itself known again. It had not left the house but had gone into hiding. By evening, writer was too faint to even let the precious dog outside. Thankfully, said writer had a wonderful daughter who, despite symptoms of same virus, came to the writer's rescue, driving over, letting out the dog, seeing mother to her bed, giving her something to lower her fever, and spending most of night on the sofa, just in case she was needed. (God bless daughters!)

Two mornings after that, the writer's fever finally broke for good, taking with it her chills and dizziness but leaving behind an overall persistent weakness. Deadline was now looming ever closer. Writer began praying for a miracle.

---

The above short story serves as a public service warning. Wash your hands frequently. Avoid this nasty virus, whatever you do.

idol 7: from 9 to 8

Well, life took one of those turns today. I got up this morning to a very, very ill mother. By afternoon, when no meds had helped, Daughter #1 and I took Mom to the hospital. She was in the ER for about four hours. Feeling weak but a bit better, she'll be on a clear diet for a few days.

Anyway, I didn't get a single word written today, and tomorrow I have to take her to the doctor for a follow up. Which means it will be a tough writing day too. Deadline is bearing down on me. Not good. I need to write!!!

TMI? Sorry.

Okay, let's get to Idol, shall we?

We got a a song from the Next Great American Band winners, the Clark Brothers tonight. I wasn't crazy about their version of This Little Light of Mine. I must be too old to appreciate that style.

Bottom three tonight: Ramiele, Kristy Lee, and Brooke. But first ...

Here's Dolly, and she's singing Jesus & Gravity. Way to go, Dolly. Let's have a bit of revival on American Idol. This is one of her songs from her new album, Backwoods Barbie. Love it. Love it. There's just nobody like her. She is a true original (and one very talented songwriter).

And when all was said and done, Ramiele was sent home. And despite tears, she did a pretty good job with her exit song. Sweet girl and certainly a good voice. With some maturing and more performing experience, she could go places.

Wishing you well, Ramiele!

-rlh-

idol 7: the 9 perform

Whew! It rolled around already. Another Tuesday, and we are now down to one hour shows.

I'm a Dolly Parton fan. Have been for years and years. I've got a number of her CDs. And if you pay attention to my "Added to My iPod" list in the sidebar, you know that I bought Backwoods Barbie a couple of weeks ago. Love the video that goes with Better Get to Livin'. (And since I've been discussing plastic surgery in my past two posts, I'll say, I wish Dolly hadn't had so much done. She's looking way too stretched.)

Brooke kicked off what will be a fast hour with Jolene. I liked it a lot. I thought it was a solid performance and it suited her voice well. Randy and Simon were okay with it though not raving. Paula was more raving like an idiot. Sorry but she says the same thing all the time. "You are true to yourself." Yeah, but what does that mean?

David C. sang Little Sparrow. It was very good, but I can't say I was bowled over by it like last week. Still he is one of the frontrunners.

Ramiele sang Do I Ever Cross Your Mind? Sorry. I thought she looked cute and bubbly, but it was still a forgettable performance.

Jason sang Travelin' Thru. I liked it, but then I like his "folksy" style. Simon hated it. I guess we will agree to disagree tonight.

Carly sang Here You Come Again. A very slow version of it and rather over-performed. I'm sorry, but as pretty as her voice is, I wasn't wowed by this performance. But then, I love the Dolly version of it, which may explain a lot. So I agreed with Simon this time.

 

Paula is really in "pointless things to say" mode tonight. Sometimes I feel like asking her if she is taking her prescribed meds. Or maybe she is taking too many?

David A. brought us Smoky Mountain Memories. In rehearsal, Dolly was fighting tears. Oh, wow. Perfect song for his voice. I loved it!! Randy calls it the "best of the night," Paula babbles, and Simon thought it was "on the money."

Kristy Lee picked Coat of Many Colors (another Dolly song I love). I think this performance was one of her best. She didn't try to over-sing it. Simon called it "pleasant but forgettable."

Syesha chose to sing I Will Always Love You. Now, I have enjoyed both the Dolly version and the Whitney version of this song through the years, and Syesha sort of combined the two (which Dolly liked). Even before the end, I knew Simon wouldn't like the Whitney portion. To an extent, I'll have to agree. I liked the first half better. But I thought it was a solid performance.

Michael closed the show with All Wrong But It's All Right. A very bluesy version. I wasn't crazy about the arrangement (a little too much of the band, perhaps). But I liked him. He sounded awesome.

The hour whisked by and felt a bit rushed to me. I think they cut it from 90 minutes to 60 minutes a little too soon.

My favorites of the night (in order they performed): Brooke, David C., David A., and Michael. In danger? I'm thinking Ramiele. And unless lots of other viewers like Jason's folksy style, I think he could be in danger too.

-rlh-

cosmetic surgery ... should you?

Related to my post of last evening, this morning, I caught a piece on Fox News about Presley's experience. She had silicone injected into her face by a quack (I guess he was a non-licensed plastic surgeon). Silicone into the face is not an approved procedure and can apparently cause a lot of problems, including a bloated look and saggy, puffy jowls. The news item didn't discuss only Presley. They mentioned others, including Lara Flynn Boyle (pictured). The plastic surgeon Fox was interviewing said that these women "look like Cabbage Patch doll versions of themselves." That is the perfect description of what they look like.

Then there was the death of Kanye West's mother who went in for cosmetic surgery and died under anesthesia due to an existing condition. If she hadn't wanted to look younger, perhaps she would still be alive.

The young gal (early 30s) who used to do my nails elected to have her breasts enlarged and then started to get Botox injections in her forehead. In her early 30s!!!

Our culture of celebrity is driving women to some desperate places, and it is sad.

Watch some movies from the 40's and you'll see that actresses used to have some meat on their bones - and be thought attractive. Now we watch walking, talking toothpicks. I saw Keira Knightly in Atonement and she looked like a surviver of some sort of terrible concentration camp. It isn't pretty.

Well, that's my rant about American culture for the day.

-rlh-