First let’s talk pneumonia. I’d just as soon get that out of the way. I’m gradually getting better. It’s a slow process. That’s all I have to say about that. Blech.
Second, my birthday. I have mixed feelings about birthdays. As my father says I should be grateful to be around to have a birthday, but to be honest I don’t think much about my birthday for two reasons- The first is I made a conscious decision to stop aging at nineteen. The second is this- I never expected to make it to thirty. However here I am, so… I’m definitely making the best of it.
Third. Grass. This is what it looks like here, now. A beautiful time of year. Far too fleeting. Soon we’ll suffer hellacious foxtails.
Fourth. We watched Argo. The movie gets a two thumbs up. I can’t say it’s the best movie I’ve ever seen, not even one of the best, but it did make me curious about the real story behind the rescue of the six Americans hidden by the Canadian ambassador to Iran. I learned the real story is far more compelling than the film version and the Canadian Ambassador did much more than merely play host.
From Screenrant:
“What’s interesting is that Argo also had potential to offer a different perspective on the filmmaking process, seeing how (in real life) colorful personalities such as Ray Bradbury, Jack Kirby, and Buckminster Fuller were among those recruited to help the titular script (which was actually based on a novel by Roger Zelazny, titled Lord of Light) seem legit. Instead, the film drops most of those people from the story in favor of fictional producer Lester Siegel (played by Alan Arkin) who embodies both the admirable and terrible traits that most people associate with Hollywood power players.”
Vikings, on the other hand, was bloody great - Lagertha rocks. Girl power! And Ragnar is such a badass invading Northumbria.
Vikings is engrossing. I think it’s Ragnar’s inner Loki peeking out through those baby blues. Sunday’s episode gave me chills. If you aren’t watching you should be.



I’m still smiling at the pictures of all the lush grass (Colorado is still waiting for green-up rain). The novel SEA OF GRASS was one of my favorites when I was in college for some reason, and that’s how I pictured the pastures before the wars between the ranchers and farmers.
Well, Julia, since you’ve made it way past the expected 30, I suggest you begin celebrating your birthdays, if only to give those who love and appreciate you the opportunity to sing Happy Birthday and clap when you blow out the candles.
We’re all very glad you’re living to celebrate.
Get over that nasty pneumonia soon and start practicing blowing out candles.
I’m looking forward to watching Argo. I haven’t watched last night’s episode of Vikings, but can’t wait to see those beautiful blue eyes.
Thanks for sharing the lush green grass. We’re still hoping for ours soon here on the East Coast.
Pneumonia is bad stuff. Take it easy and give yourself time to heal. The sea of grass looks beautiful, but hate the foxtails.
Thanks for the tips on the movies.
I’m with Marylin on this one! The weather gods keep teasing Colorado with fits of snow, but precious little moisture. I am ready for some green! (got any recipes for grass, hmn? heh)
The only way I can watch Vikings is on the computer. Drat. I need to drag a more comfy chair over to my desk. Or hurry up and get a laptop. I’m feeling seriously deprived.
Yes, Jaye - my sister says she can’t keep up with the snow in Boulder! Montana needs that snow! If you can’t watch Vikings you are deprived.
I know, Stephanie. I hate foxtails. Hate ‘em. I’m taking care of myself.
Oh Amber - last night’s episode was stunning. Watch! You’re welcome. I’m so sorry about the awful events in Boston.
Yes, Marylin, we definitely have a sea of grass out here right now. Only a matter of a week or so before it’s all foxtails and Jake won’t be able to run. Okay… okay… I’ll think about celebrating birthdays. But April is always a weird month.
Oh, wow! Get better, woman! As for birthdays…the alternative really stinks, so CELEBRATE!!! I’ll send you extra candles. So glad you’re feeling a bit better!
Thanks, Anny!
Hi Julia! I hope you’ll be feeling better soon.
Ray Bradbury died during Argo’s filming and I believe legal reasons were the reason the writers were conglomerated into two main Hollywood characters. But you’re right the story behind the story is it’s own story, and worthy of it’s own movie.
I think Affleck did a perfect job of telling a compelling tight story. There was no wiggle room for side stories.
Vikings is awesome TV! The conflict of my life these days is Mad Men and Vikings are on Sunday night and I don’t have a DVR. Uh!
PS did I miss your birthday?
Hi Kat! Yes, I thought the movie worked the way it was. But the real story is even more interesting. Oh poor you! Mad Men vs. Vikings! What to do??? I vote for Vikings! More blood and gore. No worries about my birthday. It’s all good.