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THE NAME GAME

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

When Chris woke up Monday morning, he knew something was not quite right. He was always the one to jump out of bed full of energy, ready to start the day. Not this morning. His neck and shoulders felt stiff and achy, probably from helping his brother repair his deck over the weekend. He didn’t overthink it, figuring a couple of Advil and a hot shower should do the trick.

And they did. Chris felt much better but by noon the tightness in his neck and shoulders was back. Rubbing his neck made the soreness feel a little better; that was when he remembered the masseur at his gym. He decided he’d stop by after work for a massage.

When Chris arrived at the gym, Rick – the front desk guy – told him the masseur was no longer there and his replacement hadn’t started working yet. Rick leaned forward a bit and quietly said, β€œLook buddy, I could get in trouble for telling you this but my cousin Alex recently opened a massage therapy practice. It’s not easy getting a practice up and running so I offered to help out by referring a few gym members. If you’re interested, I’ll share Alex’s contact info with you.”

Chris knew he didn’t want to spend another night suffering so he decided to take Rick up on his offer. Rick sent his contact information to Chris and five seconds later he had the number for β€˜Alex Brody, Massage Therapist’ in his phone. Thanking Rick for the tip, he left the gym and headed to his car.

Chris always kept his gym bag in the car with a fresh change of clothes. He sent a text to Alex, saying he was referred by Rick and explained his situation; Chris added that he hoped he could get an appointment that evening. It didn’t take long for him to receive a reply; Alex agreed to see him in 45 minutes. He was good to go – just enough time to grab a cup of coffee and head over.

Chris arrived at Alex’s place with a few minutes to spare. He grabbed his gym bag, climbed the stairs and rang the bell. The door was opened by an attractive woman in shorts and a t-shirt. She extended her hand and said β€œHi. You must be Chris. I’m Alex. Nice to meet you.”

A look of surprise and confusion registered on Chris’ face, then he gave a little chuckle and said β€œOh, I see what’s going on here. What’s your full name, Alex? Alexandra?”

Alex withdrew her unacknowledged hand. β€œThat’s right. Is there a problem, Chris?”

β€œYeah there is, Alexandra. The problem is women like you who dupe unsuspecting people like me by using a guy’s name simply because they lack the confidence to make it in the big bad world by using their real name. I thought I’d be dealing with a man tonight.”

β€œYou know what, Chris?” quipped Alex. β€œI thought I’d be dealing with a man tonight, too.”

And she shut the door in his face.

NAR Β© 2023

Don’t forget to join me today
In The Groove at The Rhythm Section;
we got a thing going on over there.
https://rhythmsection.blog/

In The Groove, Seventies

IN THE GROOVEΒ  (April 25, 2023)

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Okay, we’re gonna turn the heat up just a bit here and really get In The Groove.

When this song first came out in September of 1972, I was a newlywed of exactly three months with nothing but loving on my mind. I thought this was possibly the sexiest, most titillating and steamy song I’d ever heard.

It’s the story of an affair between a married man and his equally married lover. In the song, the two meet in secret β€œevery day at the same café” at 6:30 where they hold hands and talk. The two are in a quandary: β€œWe’ve got a thing going on. We both know that it’s wrong but it’s much too strong to let it go now.”

Please excuse me, Pete, but I’m stealing a page from your playbook and doing a cover version of this song by my favorite duo of all time – Hall and Oates, the most successful pair in music history (yes, even more successful than Simon & Garfunkel).

Why a cover and not the original when the original is an excellent recording? Two words: Daryl Hall. Fifty-plus years after seeing him on MTV, I still β€œhave a thing going on” for Daryl Hall so please allow me this one indulgence.

Turn down the lights, pour the wine and light the candles; here now are Hall and Oates doing a live performance of β€œMe and Mrs. Jones”.

Oh, my goodness! What can I say? I got a thing for “blue-eyed soul”.

Back to the business at hand. It’s time for the question of the day. Once again, you either know this or you don’t.

Who was the performer who originally sang β€œMe and Mrs. Jones” in 1972?

I’ll have the answer for you next week.

To refresh your memory, here’s the question of the day from last week:

In my little blurb before the video, I tossed out the name of another great song written by George Harrison. Did you notice it?

The song is “Cheer Down” and the title came from a little thing George’s wife Olivia used to say to him. Whenever he was starting to get all caught up in something and needing reining in, she’d say “Cheer down, big guy”. I like that; nicer than “Cool your jets!”.

I hope you enjoyed today’s sultry number here In The Groove. Join me next week when things will be very different.

See you on the flip side.

I’m The Sicilian Storyteller

NAR Β© 2023

Uncategorized

PANTIES

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

β€œThese aren’t my panties, George.”

β€œWhatever do you mean, Carla?”

β€œWhat could I mean? I think you know, George.”

β€œI have a confession, Carla.”

β€œI knew it!”

β€œThose panties are mine.”

β€œSay what?!”

NAR Β© 2023

https://sammiscribbles.wordpress.com/2023/04/22/weekend-writing-prompt-308-confession/
Uncategorized

GAG ME WITH A SPOON

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

One of the best things about being empty nesters is not having to cook full meals every night.

Bill’s easy, always has been; he’s not the meat and potatoes kind of guy. We’re happy with soup, BLTs, burgers on the grill, my sensational ham and cheddar omelets … you get the picture.

There are some days when I feel the urge to cook and will prepare a lovely risotto or perhaps seared sea scallops over a lentil ragΓΉ. Rare but it does happen. I’m very content taking it easy these days.

But I have to draw the line at one thing: Chef Boyardee ravioli in a can. Six words that never should be put together. It’s a travesty; it’s also one of Bill’s favorites.

I was raised on pure, natural homemade Italian food. β€œPasta” in a can is not food. Correction – it’s food: bad food, eye-averting food, gag-inducing food. It’s a treat for Bill to eat this staple from his childhood. He gets practically giddy buttering his bread and dipping it in the (dare I say) sauce in anticipation of that first mouthful. That, my friends, is a scene that once seen cannot be unseen.

Me? I won’t even open the can.

Gag me with a spoon!

NAR Β© 2023

https://lindaghill.com/2023/04/21/the-friday-reminder-and-prompt-for-socs-april-22-2023/
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MARIPOSA

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬
Β©Ayr/Gray

When drunk, my wife Blaire could be a sexy vixen or a slutty bitch; tonight was definitely the latter.

Sprawled out on the deck of my boat β€˜Mariposa’, Blaire slowly got to her feet and staggered toward me, one hand grasping the boat railing and the other a bottle of vodka.

β€œFor fuck’s sake, James, why do you always have to wear that ridiculous outfit?” Blaire slurred. She drained the bottle, dropping it on the deck.

β€œThis is proper nautical attire, darling, perfectly appropriate for every occasion” I replied. β€œBut you don’t know the meaning of proper and appropriate. You’re all but falling out of your dress.”

Blaire ran her hands up and down her tanned body. β€œWhat’s wrong, Captain? Don’t you like the way I look? All the other men do” Blaire purred tauntingly.

β€œDarling, you’re such a drunken whore” I snarled and she reached up to slap my face. I grabbed her wrist and shoved her out of the way. She fell, hitting her head. Putting the boat in neutral I quickly checked on Blaire; she was dead. I adjusted her dress and looked around the boat making sure nothing was out of place.

Heading for the dock, I made a frantic call. β€œMayday! Mayday! Emergency on board β€˜Mariposa’!”

The police asked a few routine questions but it was obvious my wife had too much to drink; she lost her balance and fell. It happened so fast I couldn’t prevent it … even if I wanted to.

NAR Β© 2023

Once again I rise to the Unicorn Challenge hosted by Jenne Gray.

https://talesfromglasgow137065088.wordpress.com/2023/04/21/the-unicorn-challenge-21-04-23/
Uncategorized

BIG NEWS!

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Stay tuned for a
brand new Friday post
starting on April 28
in The Rhythm Section.
It’s gonna be all day, every day
music blogs and videos
and it’s gonna be cool!
https://rhythmsection.blog/

NAR Β© 2023

Miscellaneous

BIG NEWS!

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Stay tuned right here for a
brand new Friday post
starting on April 28.
It’s gonna be
great music blogs and videos
all day, every day in
The Rhythm Section
and it’s gonna be cool!

Uncategorized

LA FAMIGLIA

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

β€œCourse One: Escarole Soup. Course Two: Manicotti and Salad. Gina, what is this – Sunday dinner or a reception for the Pope?” 

My girlfriend Gina showed me a copy of the menu her mother had planned for dinner. It was a seven course feast! β€œDo you eat like this every Sunday?” 

β€œNo, silly – only when we have company. This week it’s my dad’s side of the family. There’s a lot a people and mom always says it’s better to have too much food than not enough.” 

β€œWait a second. There’s going to be other people besides your parents? Like how many?”

Gina started counting on her fingers.  β€œAbout 18, maybe 20.” 

β€œThe first time I meet your parents I’m also going to meet 20 strangers and you didn’t think to warn me??” 

β€œOh, don’t worry. They’re gonna love you.” 

β€œNo. They’ll be employing Sicilian interrogations tactics. They’ll chew me up and spit me out. I’m Irish with blonde hair and pale skin. I don’t stand a chance!” 

Gina laughed. β€œOh stop exaggerating. We’re not The Mob, ya know. Just a mob!” 

And she was right. I couldn’t believe the number of people that descended on her house. They were loud, funny, loving and very welcoming.

Gina’s mom set the table extravagantly, using her best dishes, utensils and glasses. And the food was incredible. Besides the soup, pasta and salad there was fresh baked bread, an antipasto, a huge platter of meatballs and sausages, two roasts, a bunch of vegetables, fennel, fruit, nuts, a slew of desserts I couldn’t pronounce and coffee. Gina’s uncles and male cousins ate like there was no tomorrow and no one stopped talking the entire time – except for Gina’s grandmother who didn’t utter a sound and stared at me with beady eyes the whole day. Honestly, that tiny woman dressed in black from head to toe scared me to death. 

As the woman cleared away all traces of dinner, Gina’s dad got up, went to the cupboard and returned with a beautiful box made of highly polished wood with the finest Italian marble inlay. Placing the box on the table, he opened it to reveal an assortment of expensive imported cigars. The men lit up and a bottle of anisette appeared out of nowhere.

Gina’s Uncle Vito produced a deck of cards from his vest pocket. β€œYa know how to play Red Dog, Phil?” he asked me.

β€œUm … it’sΒ Bill, sir. And no, I’m not familiar with the game.” 

β€œHey, no problem, Irish. We’re gonna teach ya. And don’t look so nervous. We may rob ya but we ain’t gonna kill ya. For some reason our Gina likes ya and if she likes ya, we all likes ya.” 

While we played cards, Gina’s cousins Louie and Frankie played their accordions and the women danced; it was the most surreal and unforgettable experience of my life. 

I watched as Gina’s grandmother rose from her chair. Slowly she walked over to me and looked me square in the eyes. She grinned and pinched my cheek till it was beet red. And la famiglia howled.

I swear – 53 years later her stamp of approval is still on my face. 

NAR Β© 2023
Originally posted in 2019

Join me today At The Movies
for another interesting post
and a great music video.
https://rhythmsection.blog/

At The Movies, Fifties

AT THE MOVIES (April 20, 2023)

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Now just for fun ….. here’s something you don’t see every day.

Marlon Brando in the role of Sky Masterson singing β€œLuck Be A Lady” from the 1955 film β€œGuys and Dolls”. If you thought Frank Sinatra sang this song in the movie, like many other people you’d be wrong!

Who knew! I wonder if his Lady Luck was named β€œSTELLA!!” πŸ˜‰

Let’s go with an easy peasy question today:

Marlon Brando is famous for a lot of movies; however, this 1972 multi-award-winning blockbuster is his most famous. Name the movie and his character.

Here’s the question from last week:

Since 1998 Barbra Streisand has been married to actor James Brolin; however, he was not her first husband. Her first marriage was in 1963 to an actor who went on to achieve great success; together they have one son, actor Jason, who was born in 1966. Who was Barbra Streisand’s first husband?

And the answer is … Elliott Gould.

Well, the movie’s over; wonder what Mr. Bump’s got cooked up for Saturday.

Have a great week! Catch you next time At The Movies.

See you on the flip side.

I’m The Sicilian Storyteller

NAR Β© 2023

Uncategorized

THE BENCH

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Grundy sat in his favorite spot: a dilapidated bench on the boardwalk at Coney Island overlooking Brighton Beach. He was celebrating the sixteenth anniversary of his divorce from Barbara, the β€œBitch of Brighton” as he called her. And he was getting drunk as he did every night. 

His routine never changed. After his shift at McDonald’s, he’d grab a Big Mac, walk across the street to the Liquor Loft, buy a $7.49 bottle of Old Crow Kentucky Bourbon and a pack of Camel cigarettes, then stroll over to his bench and settle in. 

Grundy’s Bench … his home away from home. Well, not literally. Thanks to his cousin Marcy and her husband Phil, he had an actual roof over his head. Grundy was real close to Marcy, growing up together and all, and Phil was as nice as they come, humble but with the bearing of a prince. Grundy lived with them and their three kids and all Marcy asked was for Grundy to cook Sunday dinner for the family. Hell, he’d cook dinner every night for those precious people if he wasn’t always shit-faced after work.   

β€œPretty sweet deal” Grundy thought as he took a swig of his Old Crow. β€œI’m a freaking loser, an embarrassment, yet they treat me with a love I don’t deserve.” He had his own room, a TV and Marcy did his laundry. He mostly kept to himself, getting home late. He had the day shift, breakfast and lunch included. The pay was lousy and so was the food but it beat a blank. 

How the fuck did he end up here? Carl Grundy, a graduate of The Culinary Institute of America, working in some of the finest restaurants in the world … once one of the best chefs in New York … now a burger flipping drunk in Brooklyn. 

So what happened? Bourbon happened. He wasn’t much of a drinker – an occasional beer – but one night after a particularly ugly argument with Barbara, he surreptitiously chugged a shot of the restaurant’s finest bourbon. It was ambrosia and he had another. Before long it became a ritual, then a habit and finally an addiction. He got caught, fired and the cycle began. Land a new gig, drink their booze, get sacked. Eventually the only job he could get was at Mickey D’s and Old Crow was all he could afford. 

Out of nowhere he recalled the words of some televangelist his mother used to watch: β€œYour decisions cause your circumstances”. Damn straight! He didn’t even realize he was crying. Well, enough reminiscing for one night. 

Grundy gave his beloved bench a pat and stood up to begin his walk to Phil and Marcy’s. Suddenly he felt a searing pain in his chest and crumbled to the ground.

β€œOh, Lord! I’ve made a fine mess of things” Grundy gasped. β€œI’m hurting and I want to go home. Mom and Dad are waiting for me.”

He died alone that night, his hands still clutching an empty bottle.

NAR Β© 2023

It’s that time of year.
Come on over to
In The Groove;
find out what’s the buzz.
https://rhythmsection.blog/

In The Groove

IN THE GROOVE (April 18, 2023)

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Well, whaddya know? It’s tax day here in the USA! And what better way to say β€œThank you” to The Man than by listening to one of the coolest songs written by George Harrison.

I know it’s an exciting day, another chance to show our gratitude for the privilege of paying taxes on our earned incomes. Wow … what a concept! As always, we tell it like it is here In The Groove. Just one of those things that make you go “hmmm”.

Now let’s all try to cheer down and have a listen to a really great tune. Follow the lyrics closely; they are spot on. As I like to say, β€œThere’s not a single thing wrong with a George Harrisong!”

Every time I hear this song I’m reminded of two things: 1) the very creative and clever lyrics and 2) George’s incredible (and often overlooked) guitar playing.

So here’s the question of the day:

In my little blurb before the video, I tossed out the name of another great song written by George Harrison. Did you notice it?

I’ll have the answer for you next week.

Now here’s a reminder of last week’s question of the day:

Jimi Hendrix is a member of an exclusive and extremely unique club. What is the name of that infamous club?

And the answer is … β€œ27 Club”. Jimi Hendrix, Brian Jones, Alan Wilson, Janis Joplin and Jim Morrison all died at the age of 27 between 1969 and 1971. At the time, the coincidence gave rise to some comment but it wasn’t until Kurt Cobain’s 1994 death at age 27 that the idea of a β€œ27 Club” began to catch on in the public eye.

That’s it for another segment of In The Groove; come on over and join me Thursday At The Movies and don’t forget to check in on Deb tomorrow for another magic carpet ride through the World of Music!

See you on the flip side.

I’m The Sicilian Storyteller

NAR Β© 2023

Uncategorized

SYLVIA REPLIED

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

β€œWalnut, definitely walnut” declared Sylvia Klein. β€œLook what is says in the brochure”: 

Honor your loved one by choosing an exquisite solid wood casket.
The strong, stately Elite Walnut is a timeless casket that comes with
beautiful platinum swing bars and a secure locking mechanism.
Like most of our funeral caskets, the Elite Walnut features
an Eternal Rest Adjustable Bed and matching pillow.
The luxurious silk velvet lining makes this casket an excellent choice
at the remarkably low price of $17,000.

β€œDoesn’t that sound ideal, Lenny?!” Sylvia exclaimed to her husband. 

β€œ$17,000?! What else is in there – the Crown Jewels?! Who pays that kind of money for a casket?! Sylvia, for that amount we can give our grandsons a bar mitzvah feast fit for a king!” 

β€œDid you see the part where it says β€˜adjustable bed and matching pillow’? Oh, Lenny, think how comfortable I’ll be.”

β€œComfortable?? For crying out loud, Sylvia, you’re gonna be dead. D-E-A-D dead! This isn’t a week at the Ritz Carlton! Adjustable bed my ass!” 

β€œLenny, why are you acting like an old tightwad? You always said money is just a number. This means a lot to me!” Sylvia exclaimed tearfully. 

β€œSylvia, calm down. When have I ever been a tightwad? Our daughters had extravagant weddings. You wanted that chandelier for the dining room which, I’ll remind you, cost a pretty penny. Then there was the Steinway mahogany baby grand and you don’t even play the piano! Let’s not forget the Jaguar with all the bells and whistles and more cruises than 10 seasons of ‘The Love Boat’! Everything you ever wanted I happily gave you but this – this is just a big waste of money!  

β€œLeonard Klein, how can you say that?! My final resting place and you’re calling it a waste of money! Sylvia wailed.

β€œSylvie, I’m sorry. Calm down. Can we please discuss this later?” Leonard pleaded. 

β€œWait, Lenny. You haven’t heard the best part. This is a special for Rosh Hashanah – buy one, get one at half price. That’s only $25,500 for two – one for me and one for you!” 

Leonard sighed deeply. β€œOy vey, Sylvia, I don’t need all this stuff! Put me in a plain pine box and toss me off the yacht. You can even write on it β€˜Leonard Klein sleeps with the fishes’!” 

Sylvia started sobbing. β€œOh, Leonard, how can you say such a horrible thing? The thought of you being nibbled on by fish and crabs and God knows what … I could die!” 

β€œSylvia, please stop crying. I was just making a little joke. If you want this ‘Elite’ whatever, we’ll get it. Ok? You feel better now?” 

Sylvia sniffled and nodded her head. β€œOh yes, Lenny! You’ve made me very happy! Now one last thing: I can’t be buried. I’m terribly claustrophobic. The thought of being underground – I’d die! I want to be cremated.” 

β€œCremated?!” Leonard yelled, running his fingers through what little hair he had. β€œNow you want to be cremated? Are you meshugenah, Sylvia? $17,000 for a piece of firewood?!” 

β€œ$25,500, Lenny” Sylvia replied. 

NAR Β© 2023

Check out my new
Name That Tune
post today in
The Rhythm Section
https://rhythmsection.blog/

Eighties, Name That Tune

NAME THAT TUNE (April 16, 2023)

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

It’s time for another edition of Name That Tune. No pressure but I think this is a pretty easy one; let’s see if you can guess our featured artist and song.

Are you ready? Hit it!

  1. Our featured performer was born on November 30, 1955 and is a British singer, songwriter, musician and actor who also holds U.S. citizenship. While in school, a teacher described him as β€œlazy”, perhaps leading to his homophonous stage name.
  2. As a 21-year-old guitar-playing university drop-out, today’s performer (literally) made a name for himself by forming a β€œgenerational” punk group in 1976, garnering some of the members after placing an advertisement in the British weekly music magazine,  Melody Maker.
  3. Our featured song is the title track of the 1983 album of the same name, the second album released by today’s singer. The song received critical acclaim and in 2009 was named the 79th best hard rock song of all time by VH1.
  4. At a televised performance of VH1 Storytellers, our towheaded singer recalled an event where Mick Jagger and Keith Richards were taking swigs from a bottle of bourbon. He was not familiar with the brand but he liked the name, which was the inspiration for today’s song. I guess the spirit moved him!
  5. It’s very likely the name of that fabled bottle of bourbon had a lot to do with this performer’s signature howl.

Now that you have the clues, do you have the answers? Scroll down to see the big reveal.

Yeah, baby! The answer is Billy Idol doing his famous β€œRebel Yell”.

Let’s check out the video!

Gotta love that yell and the perfect lip curl!

Did you know the name of the song and our famous singer? What was the clue that clinched it for you? 

FYI – Billy Idol’s’ teacher said he was “lazy and idle“, inspiring his name change. The bourbon Keith Richards and Mick Jagger were drinking was called “Rebel Yell” and the rest, as they say, is history.

Thanks for joining me today at Name That Tune; I hope you had a blast!

We’d love to hear your comments so don’t be shy.

Happy Sunday! Why not stop by during the week and check out our other posts?

See you on the flip side.

I’m The Sicilian Storyteller

NAR Β© 2023

Uncategorized

JAVA JIVE

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬
Copyright Ayr/Gray

Coffee mug in hand, I leaned over the railing of my little vacation rental staring out at the Great Smoky Mountains. Recently divorced and childless, I was now truly alone for the first time in a dozen years.

β€œGlorious sunrise, isn’t it?” a smooth southern baritone voice remarked. I turned my head to see a ruggedly handsome man with unruly blonde hair in jeans and a sweater.

We exchanged smiles and appreciative glances. I replied that it was indeed glorious. 

He lingered for a moment or two, then declared β€œWell, I’m off. Flapjacks, bacon and a great cuppa java for breakfast”. He walked a few steps and turned. β€œI wonder, do you like Double Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon? β€œ

I sipped my coffee thoughtfully and said, β€œI haven’t had the pleasure but I do enjoy a good chilled white wine.”

β€œMeet me right here tonight; if you think this is a thing of beauty, you should see the sunsets. They’re astounding.” And he walked off, the clop of his boots on the deck the only sound.

He was right about the wine and the sunset. That was the last night I would ever be alone again.

NAR Β© 2023
(Renamed and repurposed for The Unicorn Challenge, April 14, 2023. The gauntlet has been tossed and the challenge accepted. Write on!)

https://talesfromglasgow137065088.wordpress.com/2023/04/14/the-unicorn-challenge-14-4-23/

Uncategorized

IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Originally, the Chelsea Piers evening boat tour was scheduled to depart at 6:00 PM but was cancelled due to dense fog. Disappointed, Emma consulted her tour guidebook for something else to do. She read:

THE VORTEX. NOT YOUR FATHER’S WATERING HOLE.
LOCATED AT 15 CHRISTOPHER STREET
IN THE HEART OF CHELSEA.
SMOKING PROHIBITED IN ACCORDANCE WITH
THE NEW YORK CLEAN INDOOR AIR ACT.
OTHER THAN THAT, ANYTHING GOES!

β€œHmm. Now that’s intriguing” Emma thought β€œand it’s nearby.” 

Just a short walk later and Emma arrived at The Vortex, a secluded and rather alluring place. Finding a seat at the bar, she ordered a dirty martini. Reflected in the mirror behind the bar was the image of a retro-looking poster. Sliding off her barstool, she casually walked up to the poster for a better look. She snapped a photo and returned to the bar.

More people were coming in now – an intriguing and diverse patchwork of ethnicity, race and sexual orientation. Emma found it all so exciting and very New York! When the bartender brought her drink, she commented on how electric yet relaxing the atmosphere was and asked β€œCan you tell me something about that poster?”

β€œSure! It’s a beauty, isn’t it?” he replied. β€œThe Vortex is an edgy and somewhat somber play written by the literary giant, NoΓ«l Coward. It premiered in London in 1924 garnering Coward great critical and financial success. It’s a story about a nymphomaniac socialite and her cocaine-addicted son. Many thought the drug was a cover for homosexuality. As you can imagine, it was considered pretty shocking back then. Rumor has it that Princess Margaret owned the original poster for a while. She was a free spirit and loved a good lampoon, especially those directed at the upper classes and British aristocracy.”

β€œWow! You certainly know a lot about that poster! It’s all very fascinating!” Emma exclaimed. β€œSomething tells me there’s more to the story.”

β€œOh, there is” the barkeep agreed. β€œDuring the run of “The Vortex”, NoΓ«l Coward met an American director and producer named Jack Wilson. They ran with the same crowd where drugs, booze and same-sex relationships were prevalent. Wilson became Coward’s business manager and lover. We thought ‘The Vortex’ was a cool name for the bar. My mother recently brought that poster to me; it looks great there, doesn’t it?”

β€œIt does! Sounds like you might have a personal connection to this story” Emma suggested.

β€œYeah, in a circuitous way I do. My great-great-grandmother was once a chorus girl and she got on famously with Jack Wilson – so much so that she and her husband named their first baby Jack Wilson Morrow and asked Jack to be the baby’s godfather. The tradition continued through the years; lots of my relatives were named Jack Wilson so-and-so. In fact, my name is Jack Wilson Connors.”

β€œPleased to meet you, Jack Wilson Connors” Emma laughed as she extended her hand. β€œI’m Emma Peterson Kennedy and you have officially blown my mind with that great story!”

β€œI like you, Emma Peterson Kennedy! Always nice making new friends. How about another drink – on the house?”

Emma blushed a little and said β€œYes, I’d love one.” 

While Jack was preparing Emma’s drink, all sorts of thoughts were running through her head … ‘He’s cute, friendly, great personality and no wedding ring. It’s been far too long since I went out with a really nice guy who didn’t have a lot of excess personal baggage. He likes me, he seems interested. I wonder – should I? What have I got to lose?’

β€œFor my lovely new friend, Emma. One perfect dirty martini” Jack said with a flourish. “I hope I get to see a lot more of you.” His engaging smile revealed two incredibly delightful dimples that melted Emma’s heart on the spot.

Trying to sound nonchalant, Emma said β€œYou know, Jack, it says here on the poster that there’s a performance ofΒ “The Vortex”Β tomorrow night. If you’re not working, how about we make it a date?” 

β€œI’d really love to see the play with you, Emma” Jack said “but my husband and I already have plans for tomorrow night.”

β€œHusband!? Oh my God, Jack! I’m so sorry! This is so embarrassing. I didn’t realize………”

β€œThat I’m gay? No worries, Emma. It runs in the family.”

NAR Β© 2023

I have a brand new post for you today
At The Movies in The Rhythm Section.
Why not stop by a take a took?
https://rhythmsection.blog/

At The Movies

AT THE MOVIES (April 13, 2023)

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Welcome back from yesterday’s trip to Finland; thanks for the tour, Deb!

Today I have a beautiful song for you performed by one of the premier artists in the world of music – Barbra Streisand.

β€œPeople” was composed by Jule Styne with lyrics by Bob Merrill for the 1964 Broadway musical β€œFunny Girl” starring Barbra Streisand. She introduced the song to the world and made it her own; it is without a doubt Streisand’s signature piece.

“People” was one of the first songs written for the musical based on the life and career of Fanny Brice, comedic star of stage and screen, and her stormy relationship with entrepreneur and gambler Nicky Arnstein. The song was used again in the 1968 film versionΒ of β€œFunny Girl” starring Barbra Streisand as Fanny Brice – the role she played on Broadway – and Omar Sharif as Nicky Arnstein.

I don’t know who was more beautiful in that movie – Barbra or Omar! That was rather ironic for me when I read that in the early days of her career, Streisand was repeatedly told she was too ugly to be a star and was advised to get a nose job, which she did not do. Good for her!

Barbra Streisand is one of a handful of performers who have been awarded an EGOT – an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar and a Tony.

Here now is the incomparable Barbra Streisand singing β€œPeople”.

What a great song and a phenomenal voice! Some of those shots from the movie were so terrific, I want to watch it again!

Now for our question of the day:

Since 1998 Barbra Streisand has been married to actor James Brolin; however, he was not her first husband. Her first marriage was in 1963 to an actor who went on to achieve great success; together they have one son, Jason, who was born in 1966. Who was Barbra Streisand’s first husband?

I’ll have the answer for you next week.

As a reminder, here’s the question from last week:

Actor George Maharis appeared in the movie β€œExodus”; he was also the co-star of the 1960s TV show β€œRoute 66″. Do you recall his character’s name on the show? Extra credit if you can name the other star of the show and the character he played.

And the answers are … George Maharis played Buz Murdock on β€œRoute 66” and his co-star was Martin Milner in the role of Tod Stiles. How well did you do?

It’s time to bring down the curtain on another edition of At The Movies; I hope you enjoyed today’s production.

Thanks for being with us here at The Rhythm Section.

See you on the flip side.

I’m The Sicilian Storyteller

NAR Β© 2023

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Way Of The Warrior – Courage

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

An incredible post by my friend Spira.
It’s not necessary to have read his previous
posts to feel the depth of this one but that
would definitely be your loss.

Spira's avatarinSPIRAtion

Chapter V of Way Of The Warrior.

Β (previous chapters can be found at the dedicated page of the blog, here)

{Written in Six Sentence form.}

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ARR, MATEY!

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

It was a beautiful Saturday morning when my son Tom called.

“Dad, Allie’s gone into early labor! We need you to stay with Molly.” He sounded excited and nervous.

“I’m on my way!” I immediately answered.

As soon as I arrived Tom and Allie left for the hospital.

“Grampy, can we go to the school fair?” Molly asked. “Daddy was gonna take me today.”

“Sure, pumpkin. Let’s go!” I replied – anything to help pass the time.

The playground of Molly’s school, St. Cecilia’s Elementary for Girls, had been magically transformed into a carnival with food stands, games of chance and a giant inflated pirate ship.

“Look, Grampy! A bouncy ship!” Molly tugged at my sleeve. “Can I go on, please?”

“You bet, honey! Looks like fun!” I gave my granddaughter a boost. I was half in and half out when the ship started bouncing, taking me for a ride I’ll not soon forget!

Well, a bouncy anything is no place for a 60-year-old man and 20 little girls. They were rolling all over me and every time the damn thing came to a stop, I tried getting out but kept losing my balance.

Then, just when I thought things couldn’t get worse, the pirate ship was surrounded by police. One cop with a megaphone shouted “Sir, this ride is for children only. You’re in serious trouble. Come out now or we’ll come in and drag you out!”

I finally managed to crawl my way out. My clothes were in total disarray, little girls were crying and I heard someone yell “You sick bastard!”

Arr! I made the news that night. My fifteen minutes of fame!

NAR Β© 2023

I have a new post up today
at the Rhythm Section for
In The Groove.
Why not stop by and
check it out?
https://rhythmsection.blog/

In The Groove, Sixties

IN THE GROOVE (April 11, 2023)

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Do you remember when I told you last week that we’d be going on a trip today? And do you remember when I used that old phrase β€œSmoke β€˜em if you got β€˜em!”? Well, there’s a whole lot of tripping going on here and they were definitely smoking!

β€œPurple Haze”. Yeah, baby! The name alone sounds trippy. This is the music I cut my teeth on.

There can’t be anyone reading this who hasn’t heard of Jimi Hendrix. Written in 1967 by Jimi, β€œPurple Haze” showcases his extraordinary talent and inventive guitar playing. Listeners interpret the song as referring to a psychedelic experience; Hendrix described it as a love song. Hmm, interesting.

Regardless of what people may think of this type of music, nothing can change the fact that β€œPurple Haze” launched not one but two revolutions: late-sixties psychedelia and the unprecedented genius of Jimi Hendrix. “Purple Haze” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and has been called one of the greatest guitar songs of all time.

You decide. Here is the Jimi Hendrix Experience and β€œPurple Haze”.

Smoke β€˜em if you got β€˜em!

Far out, man! His guitar fingering was amazing!

Ok, here’s the question of the day:

Jimi Hendrix is a member of an exclusive and extremely unique club. What is the name of that infamous club?

The answer will be given next week.

As a reminder, here’s the question from last week.

Can you name the doo-wop group who had a hit revival of “You Belong to Me” in 1962? 

A few of you got it right (you know who you are)! And the answer is … The Duprees.

Well, whaddaya say we score some snacks and meet At The Movies on Thursday? And don’t forget to check out Deb’s “trippy” post tomorrow!

‘Scuse me while I kiss the sky!

See you on the flip side.

I’m The Sicilian Storyteller

NAR Β© 2023

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BLISSFULLY UNAWARE

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

β€œCome, I want you to see something” my mother beckoned.

She showed me two graduation portraits, one of me, and one of my twin sister.

Pointing to my portrait, she said β€œThat’s my beautiful daughter, Nancy.”

 She looked at my sister’s portrait, cocked her head and declared β€œI have no idea who that is”.

Blissfully unaware, no longer cognizant. 

NAR Β© 2023

Written for Sammi’s Weekend Writing Prompt #306

https://sammiscribbles.wordpress.com/2023/04/08/weekend-writing-prompt-306-cognitive/
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HALLELUJAH!

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Happy Sunday to all and to my friends
who are celebrating today,
best wishes for a joyous Easter!

I hope sometime during your busy day
you can take a break and join me
in The Rhythm Section
for the Easter edition of Name That Tune
https://rhythmsection.blog/

Name That Tune, Seventies

NAME THAT TUNE (April 9, 2023)

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Welcome back to Name That Tune. To all who observe this day, I wish you a very Happy Easter.

I don’t want to talk about this song; I’d rather just cut to the chase and listen to my favorite rocker … but first, let’s see if you can guess the song, the composers and perhaps even the performer. I’m rooting for you!

Keeping in mind the historical religious events which led up to today, here are your five clues:

  1. This song is featured prominently in a Broadway show and film which both achieved international success.
  2. The setting for this song is at night in a garden where an indecisive and troubled man is asking his father a soul-searching question.
  3. This song is just one of 23 which were written and conceived as an album before the show was created or staged. The album was released October 27, 1970; almost one year to the day the show opened on Broadway October 12, 1971.
  4. The singer on the original album was the frontman for one of the biggest rock groups to come out of England. Because the group was on the top of the musical world at the time, the singer was unable to join either the production on Broadway in 1971 or the film in 1973. On the album, the singer portrays the lead character.
  5. The music was composed by one of the most famous British writing duos in the industry.

Any ideas? Well, cogitate on it a bit then scroll down for the big reveal.

Did you figure it out? If you said “Easter Parade” you’re wrong! Sorry, just having a bit of fun.

Now for the correct answer:

In keeping with the holiday, here is “Gethsemane” (β€œI Only Want to Say”) from Jesus Christ Superstar, music and lyrics by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice, sung by Ian Gillan, lead singer of the rock group Deep Purple, in the role of Jesus.

There have been other singers since Ian Gillan who tackled the role of Jesus but none came close to this original recording and his incredible voice.

For those of you who thought the answer was “Easter Parade”, here’s a video from the movie of the same name. If you’re a musical buff, you’ll enjoy Judy Garland and Fred Astaire singing “Easter Parade” (often mistakenly called “Easter Bonnet”) from the 1948 movie.

Thanks for joining me today; I hope you had a good time playing Name That Tune.

See you on the flip side.

I’m The Sicilian Storyteller

NAR Β© 2023

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I AM GROOT

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Two young brothers were on their way home from the bake shop with sweets they purchased for Easter. Taking a shortcut through the woods, they greedily ate their delicious treats.

To their surprise as they rounded a bend, they came upon a gnarled old tree branch blocking their way. Because the path was exceedingly narrow and the brothers were exceptionally chubby, they knew they would not be able to walk around the branch.

They decided to toss it into the murky pond below.

The brothers wiped their sticky faces with pudgy fingers and licked the crumbs off their hands, then wiped them on their shirts. Just as they reached out for the branch, it growled angrily at them.

β€œGet your fat, gooey hands off me!

The boys were too pudgy to jump back and only teetered like Humpty Dumpty. β€œWho are you? What do you want?” they asked the branch.

β€œI am Groot. I was once part of the oak tree in your yard until you uncaringly jumped on me. Your hefty weight caused me to break away and here I lay, forgotten.”

The boys were indifferent. β€œWe were having fun and you are only a branch.”

Without warning Groot’s arms began to grow. They wrapped themselves around the boy’s ankles and flung them into the pond. The brothers sank to the bottom, never to be seen again.”

Groot smiled. The couple who mindlessly used him to hang their heavy swing was approaching.

β€œCome to me”, he thought.

NAR Β© 2023

https://talesfromglasgow137065088.wordpress.com/2023/04/07/the-unicorn-challenge-07-04-23/

Written for the April 7, 2023 edition of The Unicorn Challenge.Β Jenne Gray and has thrown down the gauntlet and I have accepted the challenge.

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LAMB OF GOD

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

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WEEPING

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

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WATER, WATER EVERYWHERE

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

DAY 1 – Today, as I walked the hills, God spoke to me. We’ve had many talks before but today was different.  There was a certain unhappiness in his voice and he didn’t say much. Later, right in the middle of dinner, I heard God calling: β€œNoah? NOAH!” Oh, for Christ’s sake! Always when I’m eating! I got up and went to our usual spot. God said that he was going to start a torrential rain that would flood the earth, essentially killing everyone. Then he told me to wait for instructions. OMG! This is heavy duty. I totally lost my appetite.

DAY 15 – Two weeks later God called again and said he wanted me to build a boat … actually, he called itΒ an ark andΒ it had to be a certain number of cubits (Note to self: Google cubits). After it’s built I can bring only my wife Na’amah, our sons and their wives. In truth I did ask if I could leave the women behind but God just laughed and laughed. He said there was a method to his madness and I’d thank him later. Now, here’s where it gets really m’shuge: God told me I had to bring two of every animal, male and female, and enough food to feed every living thing for forty days and forty nights. I don’t think evenΒ HeΒ knows what a monumental undertaking this is.

DAY 18 – Tonight I told the family what we had to do and they looked at me like I was from Mars. I said “I know, I know! Enough with the looks already! As nuts as it sounds, that’s what He wants so that’s what He’s gonna get.” My sons began helping me build the ark while the women baked plenty of unleavened bread, cured meat and picked legumes, vegetables and fruit. 

DAY 318 – Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, we finished the ark. You should have seen the crowd we attracted! I guess these people have nothing else to do all day except watch us work and crack jokes. “Just wait; you’ll see” was all I could say. So now came the major task of collecting the animals from their holding bins and loading them all onto the ark. Just as we got the last of the animals on board, the skies opened up and it started to pour. Rain like I’ve never seen before came down in sheets. The water rose quickly and we pulled up the plank, making sure everything was totally secure. We could hear the people outside; they weren’t laughing at us now. We felt the support beams fall away and the ark was afloat. Soon we were far enough away and all was quiet except for the sound of the rain. It was not easy and the women were very upset but I knew I was doing God’s will.

DAY 358 – Let me tell you, these last 40 days were no pleasure cruise; I don’t remember ever being locked up with four women and no means of escape. I would not wish it on my worst enemy. Today we opened the hatch and discovered the rain had stopped. We released one of the doves; after a while it returned with a branch and we knew the waters had started to recede. Things looked promising; we even saw a rainbow. Then out of nowhere my wife says β€œNoah. There’s a problem. Nobody noticed we forgot the unicorns.” Well, I sure had a good laugh over that one. β€œYou believe that fairytale??” I guffawed. “Next thing you’re gonna tell me is someone’s gonna write a book of biblical proportions about us. Maybe they’ll even make a movie. Na’amah, you crack me up!” 

NAR Β© 2023

Please join me today
At The Movies
in The Rhythm Section.
https://rhythmsection.blog/

At The Movies, Sixties

AT THE MOVIES (April 6, 2023)

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Welcome back to another installment of At The Movies.

To all my friends who observe Passover, I wish you a blessed celebration.

Today I bring you β€œExodus” as performed by the legendary piano duo of Ferrante and Teicher. This brilliant song was written for the 1960 award-winning movie of the same name. The epic historical drama was directed by Otto Preminger, screenplay adapted from the novel β€œExodus” by Leon Uris.

Please enjoy the amazing β€œgrand twins of the twin grands”!

Wow! That was terrific! I bet they didn’t miss many piano lessons! Now it’s time for the question of the day:

Remember the 1960’s TV show β€œRoute 66”? George Maharis, one of the actors in the movie β€œExodus”, was one of the costars of “Route 66”. Can you remember his character’s name on the show? Extra credit if you can name the other star of the show and the character he played?

This was the question from last week:

We already know that John Travolta was the star of the Saturday Night Fever. What was his character’s name?

And the answer is … Tony Manero. How many of you remembered?

Thanks for joining me once again At The Movies. Sunday is my turn to toss out the questions for Name That Tune; stop by and check out what I’ve got planned.

See you on the flip side.

I’m The Sicilian Storyteller

NAR Β© 2023

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world music – e

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

Deb’s got something fabulous
and exotic going on today.
Check it out!

nopenotpam's avatarThe Rhythm Section

Welcome to World Music – a musical journey around the world. The object of this segment is to showcase artists from around the world, and in particular the musical styles synonymous with each country. Last week we went to wonderful Denmark, but I suspect you might need your sunglasses for E.

Egypt

Music has been an integral part of Egyptian culture since antiquity in Egypt. Egyptian music had a significant impact on the development of ancient Greek music, and via the Greeks it was important to early European music well into the Middle Ages. Due to the thousands of years long dominance of Egypt over its neighbors, Egyptian culture, including music and musical instruments, was very influential in the surrounding regions; for instance, the instruments claimed in the Bible to have been played by the ancient Hebrews are all Egyptian instruments as established by Egyptian archaeology. Egyptian modern music is…

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I can’t brain today, I have the dumb — sign language edition

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

I do not reblog indiscriminately.
God, I hope stupid isn’t contagious!

bluebird of bitterness's avatarbluebird of bitterness

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DAD’S DESK

Nancy's Notes πŸ–ŠοΈβ™¬

β€œDid I look at them?! Are you kidding me? Of course I looked at them! They’re phenomenal!! I thought my eyes were gonna bug outta my head!” my brother Paul jokingly remarked to his twin Patrick. I obviously walked in on them in the middle of a private conversation – probably about girls or sports – two subjects constantly on their 15 year old minds. They quickly shuffled the books and papers on Dad’s desk into one big pile, their faces turning red.

β€œWhat are you doing here, Penny? Aren’t you supposed to be at math club?” Patrick asked nervously. 

β€œYes but today’s session was cancelled because our math teacher had a meeting. But what I’m doing here isn’t nearly as interesting as what you’re doing here in Dad’s study.” 

Paul and Patrick both started talking at once, turning even brighter red and getting more nervous every second while fiddling with the mound of papers on the desk. β€œWho, us?” asked Paul. β€œNothing much – just the usual. We were talking about some of our favorite ball players … you know like A-Rod, Derek Jeter, Cal Ripken, Roger Clemens.” 

β€œYeah, that’s right” agreed Patrick. β€œWe were looking at our baseball cards and magazines and comparing stats. No big deal.” 

β€œOh, is that so?” I challenged. β€œThen explain to me why you sounded so excited if it was β€˜no big deal’ and why you’re here in Dad’s study using his desk – which you know is off limits – when all your baseball cards, magazines and what have you are upstairs in your bedroom?” 

My brothers started squirming as I continued. 

β€œI know you boys and I’m sure you’re up to something. Where are all your cards? Where are all your magazines? I don’t see anything baseball related at all. So you see by this simple matter of deduction, your lame answers are wrong and my reasoning is right!” 

The boys looked at each other, quickly gathered their piles of papers and books and began running to the stairs and the safety of their bedroom. In their haste to get away from me, everything they were holding slipped from their arms and fell to the floor. 

And there it was – the thing they were so desperately trying to hide – a copy of Playboy with Farrah Fawcett in all her glory on the cover. 

I gasped in righteous indignation. β€œI’ve never been more ashamed of you two! That’s a filthy sex magazine! Do you know what she is??” 

Paul sighed deeply and whispered β€œShe’s a goddess.”

β€œYeah, a goddess” repeated Patrick breathlessly. 

β€œShe is not a goddess!” I yelled. β€œShe’s a Hollywood bimbo, a floozy … at least that’s what Mom says.”

β€œI don’t think Dad would agree with that” replied Paul. β€œAfter all, it’s his magazine. He’s got quite a collection!” 

β€œDad’s?!?” My hands flew to my face in shock and all my books fell to the floor. 

β€œWell, what have we here?” quipped Patrick. β€œPlaygirl magazine, Penny? I’m appalled!” Paul pretended to faint. 

β€œOh, you two think you’re real funny. I bet you won’t be laughing when I tell you it’s Mom’s magazine!” 

β€œMom’s?!?” the boys shouted in unison. β€œBut she’s … Mom!!” 

β€œLooks like we’re at a standoff, wouldn’t you agree, boys?” I said conspiratorially β€œLet’s put both these magazines back in the desk where we found them.” 

β€œAnd no one will be the wiser” agreed Paul. 

Just then we heard a loud “AHEM” and spun around to find our parents behind us! 

Dad was angry. β€œWell, it’s obvious you little snoops can’t be trusted. You were caught red-handed and now you’re going to have to pay the price. I’m very disappointed in the three of you. You’re all grounded for two weeks.” 

On my way upstairs to my room I heard my parents laughing and Mom teasingly saying “Could you imagine if they found our stash of VHS tapes? Good thing I keep them well hidden!”

“Oh, you are so right! Come here, my little vixen” Dad replied in a voice that sounded strangely like Ricardo MontalbΓ‘n.

Ew! Gag me with a spoon! 

NAR Β© 2023

Don’t forget to join me today
as we get In The Groove
at The Rhythm Section.
https://rhythmsection.blog/