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I like so many different bands/artists that this is really only a very small list of some of my favourites--I'm sure I'll be adding to it periodically.

Barney Bentall And The Legendary Hearts - Although I'm not really sure what they're up to these days, I had the occasion to see them play quite a bit over the years, and always had a good time at their shows.

Blues Traveler - I haven't had a chance to see these guys live, although I do enjoy their albums. Jimmy had a chance to see them last year, however, but "would have had to sit through The Barenaked Ladies first", and so decided to opt out.

Adam Cohen - My friend Janasta told me about Adam and I must say that I'm glad she did! He's not only a talented singer/songwriter, but he isn't too hard on the eyes either! ;o)

Crowded House - Although they are no longer together, this group of Kiwi's was one of my favourite bands in the 80's. Even today I still love listening to their CDs. Unfortunately, however, I never got to see them perform live.

Doug And The Slugs - I first saw them perform in October 1988 a couple of weeks before my birthday. I found myself immediately hooked by the music, talent and on-stage antics displayed by this great group of musicians, and as if that wasn't enough, I was also fortunate enough to go backstage and meet the inimitable Doug. As the years wore on, various friends and I travelled all over Ontario to take in their shows (and NO, I wasn't a groupie darn it!). They were all a great bunch of guys and although the old line-up (with the exception of their wacky front man) has changed, the band is still out there performing. After almost 3 years of Slug-deprivation, we saw them again in July 1999 and were happy to see that Doug was as rude as ever. Thankfully, in this crazy world, some things never change! ;o)

Bruce Guthro - My friend Janasta has been a fan of Bruce's for quite some time and turned me on to his music--she even sent me his tape. He is a talented singer/songwriter and perhaps someday I'll get to see him perform as well.

Colin James - I've seen him perform during both his blues and his swing incarnations. Everything this man does is fabulous--and he isn't too hard on the eyes either!

Molly Johnson - What can I say that would do her justice? Having been a fan of hers from her previous work in Alta Moda and Infidels, the wait for her self-titled album- released in September 2000-seemed interminable, but definitely well worth it! We even got the CD on the very day it was released--a first for me that I can recall. The album is as musically varied as Molly Johnson is talented--jazz offerings, as well as those that are more in the mainstream, and all showcasing her beautiful, sultry, incomparable voice. Let's just say that Molly's record can usually be found spinning in our CD player when Jim and I want to enjoy a little "alone time" ;o). You can read a few articles about Molly that appeared in the Sun newspaper chain by clicking here.
~*~Finally!!~*~ In March of 2001, Jim and I attended a performance in Toronto at The Montreal Bistro--a great Jazz club. She was absolutely, positively amazing!! We've now made a point to see her perform whenever she's within a reasonable driving distance.

Amanda Marshall - Jim, Jimmy and I finally got to see her perform on June 12th 1999 and it was not a disappointment. Her powerful voice is even better live and she seems to truly enjoy being onstage--her enthusiasm is infectious.

Matchbox 20 - A great band I'd love to see live.

Midnight Oil - Another great band I'd love to see live.

Odds - They may have gone their separate ways in order to pursue their own interests, but they sure left some great music behind. I also lament never having seen the Odds perform live.

Bonnie Raitt - I'd wanted to see her for years, and finally got the chance to attend a concert in Toronto in 1995. She was fantastic live, and well worth the money. Good thing we remembered to take binoculars though, because we were seated too far away from the stage to have seen anything without them!

Carlos Santana - A fabulous guitar player, and the well-deserved 8 Grammy Awards he won for "Supernatural" certainly reflect his talent!

Sister Hazel - I was turned on to this band by my friend Maureen, who kindly gave us the album as a wedding gift. Although we've never seen them live, we hope to eventually. Their album is fantastic and has certainly been played a lot around our house--Thanks for having great taste Mo!

Spirit Of The West - This has got to be one of my favourite bands! A Celtic/Rock mixture, all 5 members are quintessential musicians. Their albums are great and their live shows are absolutely fabulous (albeit a wee bit rough at times due to the exuberance of the fans)! From what I've seen whilst attending their shows over the years, they appeal to a wide variety of folks; young, old and everywhere in-between. Heck, even my mom loves 'em, although she's never mustered up the courage to come with us to one of their performances. So if you ever have a chance to see them play, DON'T pass it up! Besides, where else can you hear "Amore" performed these days--and by such an incredibly talented and distinguished gentleman too?

I've always loved to read, and have obviously not even begun to scratch the surface with the authors and books listed below. I love a well-written, involved novel when I have the time, but must almost shamefully admit that when I have less time, I also enjoy the odd bit of "brain candy" in the form of romance novels.

Douglas Adams - Probably best known for "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy", this author also wrote a great book about endangered species, "Last Chance To See".

V.C. Andrews - I used to read a lot of books by this author while I was in my teens. They were often rather warped and disturbing, to say the least, but I enjoyed 'em. I haven't really read any recently, since after all, the author is dead, and I fear that the "ghostwriter" is probably just rehashing all the same old stuff.

Maeve Binchy - An wonderful author, who wrote the novel "Circle of Friends" that the movie of the same name was based on. Her other works are equally enjoyable, with colourful descriptions of surroundings and multi-dimensional characters that readers can actually feel they relate to.

Max Haines - An excellent Canadian author, he recounts gripping true crime stories in many newspaper publications, he's also had many collections of these stories published in book form.

Stephen King - Although known mostly as a master of horror, he also writes well in other genres. I've been a fan his work for years and have also liked the various movies based on his novels. However, I'd have to say that my favorite translation to the big screen thus far is The Green Mile. How refreshing to see a screenplay that sticks so closely to the book.

Dean Koontz - A great horror novelist; I can't seem to put his books down, once I've begun.

Ellis Peters (pen-name of Edith Pargeter) - The "Brother Cadfael" series are mediaeval mysteries based in and around Shrewsbury Abbey. The Protagonist is resident monk, Brother Cadfael.

Nora Roberts - I've noticed that she seemss to write two definite types of novel--one that I'd catagorize as simply romance, whilst the other is romantic intrigue. I prefer the latter, since she has a definite talent for providing a plethora of twists and turns in every one of them that keeps me interested.

Ann Rule - Fact-based accounts of true crime stories--Ann Rule's writing style and thorough research makes her novels hard to put down.

"Angels Along The Way", by Della Reese - An autobiography by the "Touched By An Angel" star. Even if you aren't a fan of the show, her candid view of her life thus far may just surprise you.

"Dead Men Do Tell Tales", by William R. Maples, Ph.D. - A gripping book written by a Forensic Anthropologist, it may not be for the faint-of-heart due to some graphic descriptions of bodies, corpses and the like. However, seeing how persons with his job description are capable of solving crimes is truly intriguing.

"Griffin & Sabine", "Sabine's Notebook", and "The Golden Mean", by Nick Bantock - A truly unique trilogy of books that follows the fictitious correspondence of the two title characters. They contain letters the reader can pull out of envelopes, and beautifully illustrated postcards by the author, which add a sense of realism. (and can also tend to make the reader feel a little voyeuristic.) Check out the link above for a sampling.

"Helen Keller: A Life", by Dorothy Herrmann - As most are probably aware, Helen Keller was a well-known woman who was both deaf and blind. She lived during a time period (late 1800's to mid - 1900's) when most disabled persons were institutionalised, since they weren't considered to be equal or worthwhile members of society. With the help of her teacher, she was able to lead as normal and productive a life as possible. By chronicling her adult years, this book picks up where most literature about her life has ended. An interesting read.

"My Dear Mr. M--Letters to G.B. MacMillan from L.M. Montgomery" - Most will recognise the name of the author from her many series of books that began with "Anne of Green Gables". However, the correspondence with Mr. MacMillan, which began in 1903 and ended in 1941 (a few months prior to Montgomery's death), shows a very different life than some might expect from a woman whose stories have brought joy to millions world-wide. She attempted the role of supportive wife to her mentally ill Minister/husband while struggling with bouts of depression herself. It also gives a bit of an insider's view of the world of writing and publishing.

"The Convict Lover", by Merilyn Simonds - Inspired by letters the author found in the attic of her newly purchased home, the story is partially factual, partially the author's imagination--but entirely gripping. Follow the link, check out the summary and see if it piques your interest as much as it did mine.

Books 'n' Authors for kids:

Louisa May Alcott - I read "Little Women" and "Little Men" many times growing up.

Curious George - I could never seem to get enough of that little monkey and the long-suffering man in the yellow hat.

Dr. Seuss - Fun, fun, fun.

Lucy Maud Montgomery - This Canadian author's "Anne" books have been read by many young girls the world over. They are very descriptive and enjoyable. She also wrote many other series.

Richard Scarry - When I was a kid, I read "Cars And Trucks And Things That Go", over and over again--always seeming to discover something new in the detailed illustrations.

Laura Ingalls Wilder - Her autobiographical "Little House" books inspired the much-loved "Little House on the Prairie" television series. The novels are a worthwhile read.

 

 

Campbell's Kitchen - If you have cans of soup in the cupboard, but just aren't in a soup kinda mood, you might be able to find a recipe on this site for something more substantial. There's even a handy-dandy search engine, to make your job a whole lot easier.

Curtis Aikens - Curtis Aikens from "The Food Network" has his very own website!

Dairy Bureau of Canada - There are recipes, entertaining tips, and if you like cheese (and who doesn't??? Okay, some don't, but I do!), check out their cheese 'o' the month!

Hershey's Online Chocolate Cookbook - Chocoholics unite and go to this site NOW!! They have a handy search engine that works by product, recipe, or category, as well as decorating ideas, tips and techniques, and an "ask Hershey" section. The recipes can also be converted to "plain text" for ideal printing with the click of a button--who could ask for more?

King of the Q - Ahhhh yessssss...one of the most entertaining and talented chefs around... the incredible Ted Reader. Normally, when Jim sees a cookbook and just has to have it, I try to be the voice of reason, thus pointing out that he currently has managed to collect more recipes, in their various forms (books, magazine subscriptions, newspaper clippings, etc.) than he could ever possibly make in even ten lifetimes. However, after we caught Ted's Canada A.M. appearances on quite a number of occasions, I actually found myself pointing Jim in the direction of his latest cookbook, "Hot, Sticky and On Fire", while we were out shopping. Of course he bought it, and everything he's tried so far has been delectable.

Kraft Canada - Recipe ideas using Kraft products.

Taste of Home & Quick Cooking - Two magazines by Reiman Publications that we subscribe to. They feature easy and delicious recipes that have been sent in by "regular folks" and don't feature lots of expensive ingredients you may not have on hand. In our opinion, they're a couple of the best cooking magazines out there, and some recipes even feature diabetic exchanges.

The Food Network - If you've ever found yourself drooling while watching any of the celebrity chefs on The Food Network, go to their "Cyberkitchen" and look up the recipe.

The Urban Peasant - One of my favourite cooking shows just happens to be Canadian...what are the odds? James Barber's recipes are as easy to make as he is fun to watch!

The Webtender: An On-Line bartender - If you like an occasional drink, but just don't know how to make that cocktail you've enjoyed before, you might just find the recipe here.

 

Here is a small sampling of some of my favourite movies...some because they're good and others because they're so bad they're good. If you've seen any of them, I'll let you be the judge, as to which is which.

A Christmas Story

As Good As It Gets

Beaches

Dirty Dancing

Fried Green Tomatoes

L.A. Confidential

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Planes, Trains and Automobiles

Rainman

Roadhouse

Return to Me

Something About Mary

The Full Monty

The Green Mile

Uncle Buck

White Christmas

Babylon 5 - Okay, I know the series is over, but it is still available in syndication. Since I didn't watch it when it first aired, I ended up watching syndicated episodes on Canada's "Space - The Imagination Station". Granted I've never been a die-hard fan of the various series of the Star Trek-type genre, so the fact I've grown to like Babylon 5, surprised even me. And no...after an extremely surreal experience attending a Star Trek convention with friends years ago, I really doubt that I could ever muster the courage to attend another.

Coronation Street - Although this British soap has been around for decades (since 1960), I've only started watching it on a regular basis within about the last 5 years. Seeing the portrayal of working class people in more realistic situations is a refreshing change from what the American soaps (that I don't watch) have to offer.

ER - Mostly predictable, but I enjoy watching this medical drama anyway.

Fawlty Towers - John Cleese is brilliant playing Basil Fawlty, hotel owner from hell. There's apparently a U.S. version now...but I have no desire to watch it, since I feel nothing could measure up to the original cast.

French and Saunders - A great British comedy duo, both very talented in their own right. You can go to a wonderful fan page dedicated to the equally wonderful Dawn French by clicking here.

Hamish MacBeth - A great show, produced by BBC Scotland, we got hooked on it when it was broadcast on our local member-supported station. The best way to describe it for those who haven't seen it, would be that it is like Scotland's answer to "Northern Exposure"...only better! Although the series has finished its run, I'm sure it's still available somewhere out there for your viewing pleasure. You can visit a fan site to learn more about it, by clicking here.

Homicide Life On The Street - Yet another show that I missed out on when it was first run, but Jim and I caught all of the syndicated episodes on Bravo eventually.

Keeping Up Appearances - A BBC production, this series is truly hilarious. Featuring the inimitably annoying Hyacinth Bucket ("that's pronounced Bouquet!"), a social climbing control freak...I think we've all known a few of those in real life!

King of the Hill - This was one show that Jim and I made sure to catch every week...until the network kept changing the time slot.

The Simpsons - I love this dysfunctional cartoon family!

This Hour Has 22 Minutes - An absolutely brilliant send-up of current events done in a fake news broadcast. Of course, if you're not a Canadian, you might not always get the humour. Sadly though, we rarely watch it now that Rick Mercer has departed, because we absolutely loved him and it just isn't the same without him.

Touched By An Angel - One of those "feel good" shows. A good cry can practically always be guaranteed with this one.

 

Although I made all of my own backgrounds, I had to go somewhere to find the music and cutesy little animated graphics. The following is a list of sites that I found to be invaluable:

Music:
Large Formations - A listing of midi sources all over the 'net.

MIDI Haven - A great source for midi with over 5000 to choose from.

WK's Midi Collection - Apparently over 16 000 files available.

Animated Graphics:
Web GraFX-FX - 10 000+ GIF Animations organised by category.

Bayside.Net Animated Gif Collection - Over 900 Gifs organised alphabetically.

Select Animated GIFs - A great site with no nasty surprises, since all of the gifs are transparent and have been reduced in size. (Unlike with some of the other sites.)

 

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