Today, my wife, myself and twin daughters all decided on adopting a homeless cat. He already comes with a name… Del. Del has only one eye, the other is shut closed. He is currently living in a shelter and is in great health. The shelter he is in now rescued him from a “kill” shelter. The poor guy has also been de-clawed, yet that is alright, Del will be our house cat. Yup, Del will be able to have full reign of the house,  (within reason of course). Being a four year old cat, he probably has some stories to tell… if he could only talk. We pick up Del on Sunday, November 15th. Del is a silver tiger, with white and gray stripes. (No, he is not a real tiger). I and my family cannot wait to get this dude, he will fit right in for sure.

Over my lifetime, I have owned five different cats, they were all unique. So, I do know what to expect from having a cat around the house… the only adjustment is to identify and know Del’s personality, his likes and dislikes. Sure, it will take a short time to have Del really blend in with our home and we are really looking forward to having him. We all went out this afternoon to purchase the necessities of making Del’s life with us comfortable. Del needed a break in his life… he is going to experience it on Sunday. Now, with a cat arriving into a household that loves Heavy Metal Music, I could not help myself from compiling a list of Heavy Metal and Hard Rock bands, songs and album titles that reference cat or any association to a cat. Yeah, it’s a list… but trust me, it’s a kick:

KITTIE - This all female Heavy Metal Band just happens to be… my favorite all female Heavy Metal Band. (Girlschool is my second favorite all female Heavy Metal band, in case you were wondering). Morgan Lander, (guitar & lead vocals) and her sister Mercedes Lander, (drums), can do no wrong by me. Kittie’s new studio album, In The Black, was released on September 15, 2009.

The Motor City Madman, aka, Ted Nugent, (who belongs in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by the way), has the coolest catalog of albums that are for me, timeless. Cat Scratch Fever from 1977, is definitely one of my favorites.

I like Aerosmith. Especially 1970’s Aerosmith. Still, at the end of the Metal day, I cannot turn away from any Aerosmith album that has been created. I can’t help it, that is just the way it is. Yeah, I will listen to Aerosmith ballads too and I am no fan of ballads. Aerosmith’s album from 1997, Nine Lives, makes this list. Hey, say what you want… but this album went double platinum.

Alright, alright already… I know that the Stray Cats are not Heavy Metal or even close to being a Hard Rock Band. However, I have always been receptive to their Rock and Roll since day one. Back in the ’80’s, well, I had a very large poster of the Stray Cats on my bedroom wall… right between AC/DC and Judas Priest… honestly. Brian Setzer is just a brilliant guitarist, in my Metal opinion. The Stray Cats… Rock.

What would this cat list be without – Look What The Cat Dragged In by Poison?

Nashville Pussy. Now, that is one heavy hitting, no holes barred band if there ever was one. Hey, they are referring to a cat with this bands name, aren’t they?

Tygers of Pan Tang. O.k., so they spell tiger differently, who gives a crap. It actually looks better spelt that way. Now, this is a Heavy Metal blast from the past, plus these guys are still around. Animal Instinct was released on May 19, 2008. Tygers of Pan Tang have had their lineup changes over the decades… how many Heavy Metal Bands haven’t? I admire this bands perseverance and their pretty good at what they do too.

Kat Von D. I know, she is not a musician… still, she has created some damn great Heavy Metal tattoos, on a truck load of Heavy Metal players. Kat Von D knows her Heavy Metal too, she lives it. Plus… watching L.A. Ink is light years more better, fun and informative than watching Larry King Live. I am steadfast about that… it is the truth. As a bonus, Kat Von D is better to look at than Larry King any night.

Well, that is about it for this cat list. I could go on and on here… what would be the point? Enough is enough I say. This list has been long enough, heck, it takes time to compile such a list. I certainly hope all who visited and put up with the list portion had a good time. I will update on Metal Odyssey just how our new family cat – Del, adjusts to his new life with us. I make that Metal promise.

adam lambert et 2012 pic

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adam lambert in black suit\

youtube fan video made by AdamLambertsCool

dakota-fanning-teen-vogue-december-09

Dakota Fanning, my goodness you’ve grown up so fast!

I remember watching you in several movies while you were this little squirt.

Now your almost a grown woman, and your still as beautiful as ever.

I can see your a star, through and through and you will not disappear as others have.

Your transitioning from a child star to an adult star, your gifted and talented and we love your performances!

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dakota fanning

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Quote from youtube dxdfanx1

Aaron Stone (Charlie) is injected with a chip that allows Tranq to enter his dreams and uncover Aaron’s ultimate weakness – fear that harm will come to his family. Now S.T.A.N. must find a way to remove the chip before Tranq takes over Aaron Stone’s mind.

Charlie Landers is the best player in the online game, ‘Hero Rising,’ with his unstoppable crime-fighting avatar, Aaron Stone. Charlie’s world is changed forever when a powerful billionaire reveals to him that ‘Hero Rising’ is a testing game for real secret agents. Charlie is recruited to become the “real life” Aaron Stone and must fight crime against the evil Omega Defiance, a team of people who are out to destroy the world, but in his normal life he must keep super crime fighter Aaron Stone as his secret identity.

Season 1: Episode 18
Original Airdate: October 7, 2009

david lambert tania-gunadi-does-dance

E! Style G4 Studios

It’s a wrap!…that’s TV lingo for “we’re done!” What an awesome experience and fabulous week. I truly feel beautiful for the first time! I mean, that might sound silly, but it’s really the first time I felt and was able to say out loud, “I feel beautiful!” and genuinely mean it AND not feel like I was bragging–because I OWNED it.*snap*snap*snap* (can you hear the attitude already?!)

The day started with us going to Pasadena to meet an expert to the stars like Halle Berry, Carmen Electra, and Tyra banks (just to name a few hotties), and I got my *** done by him. He was super cute and he made me look amazing! It’s something I’ve always wanted done but didn’t know was possible. He gave me a great *** and then a relaxed and sexy ***…and PA-POW! Just like that *snap of the fingers* I was instantly glamified.

Crew unloading their equipment for the first scene

After our first shoot it was off to the E! Style G4 studios to get glammin’ and slammin’ for the last shoot. I got all dolled up in my outfit, my heels, my earrings, got my makeup done, and it was back on “white space” where I started my first day. Here, I got to share (or SHOUT!) what I loved about my “day” and how amazing I felt.

Shooting in White Space at the Studio

Honestly, this whole week has been like one huge therapeutic session in the form of fun and entertainment with an underlying theme of: Beauty comes from within. I learned that I need to truly love myself–not in a conceited way, but to truly and genuinely know that I’m enough, that I DESERVE to be happy, and that I’m worth it. Each day I was in awe about how much time and energy these people have put into helping ME! ‘Lil ‘ole me! When the cameras, the lights, and all the equipment had to get set up each day, I was always in awe that this was all to shoot ME! That experts were lined up to teach and show me how to feel and look beautiful. I’ve NEVER had so much attention and energy put into me…and it felt AWESOME! I felt so special. Through this whole process this week with the experts and with everyone I met, I got to SEE myself in a whole new light. I got to see myself as a mature WOMAN. I feel and look beautiful and I’m fully ready to OWN it. When I started to share this on camera, the crew and producers started getting all teary eyed and it was such a genuine moment of witnessing ME fully stepping into my womanhood and owning it.

Final Day in the Dressing Room

I feel strong. I feel confident. And most of all, I feel beautiful on the inside and on the outside. I’m so ready to take on the world, firmly rooted, confident, owning me, committed to me and where I stand. MMMMEOW…hear me roar, I am STELLA(R)!

P.S.  The show ’s called “What I Hate About Me” and premieres January 2 at 9pm on Style. Stay tuned for when my 1-hour episode is on!  mmmuah

Boy was today exciting! I got to go to a famous  *** in Beverly Hills and got my *** done! I had no idea it would be such a dramatic difference and make me look so different. This famous *** guru of the stars definitely knows her stuff.

We then went on location in Bel Air where I was sequestered for what seemed like forever in a separate room from everyone else. They didn’t want me to see what was going to happen next. So I got to take a nap and catch up on some zzzz’s.  When it was time, they took me out and I got to talk a little bit about *** and with *** that I went through and how I’m having a little trouble with *** now . With that said, they brought out *** who’s written a book called *** and she was amazing!  It was such an amazing breakthrough for me and a very emotional one–so when you see those tears, just know they’re real! The day ended with me being surprised by one of THE MOST important people in my life–and tears started streaming down again like a waterfall. **sigh** I LOVE the crew and this show…

The day ended with some nice quiet time with Jimmy at our local sushi place

nothing like warm sake @ the end of a long day

Krista Embry is a make up artist to the Hollywood stars! She has some fantastic tips with makeup. She doesn’t work for Arbonne but said “Arbonne products are the BEST” She shows how to do the Smoky Eye, V shape Eye, Audrey Eye, 5 minute face and more…
Opportunity Meeting – - Arbonne is Hiring!! with a 15% raise!!

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• The Products will change your Skin….and the Business will change your Life
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armageddon

I had a dream this morning about revealing something that I had found.

I can’t tell you about it just yet, but when I find out that I’m right I’ll let you all know what it’s about.

I spent yesterday relaxing and watching movies – Independence Day, War of the Worlds, Deep Impact.

I’d have to say they are all great movies, but I was feeling scared and a little depressed last night.

I had trouble falling asleep, kept having nightmares about meteors falling down on me.

This theory of 2012, is about a large meteorite hitting earth and causing mass destruction even extinctions?

Is this why the government keeps telling us to prepare for a major disaster?

Stock up on 3 days worth of water, dry goods, a change of clothes, be ready for the inevitable.

Is this their way of telling us to move our butts and find higher ground.

Then I’m thinking about deep impact.

What if you DON’T have a car?

How do you rely on the government to get you out of a pickle?

I don’t think they will, honestly, according to the movie only doctors, scientists and gifted individuals will be protected first.

The rest of us can go to hell. LOL

Oh well, so C’est la Vie!

Life life to the fullest, have no regrets and if we all die from a meteor hitting earth, then we can say we lived life as best as we could for as long as we could.

Needless to say, I’m looking forward to the movie 2012 and Paranormal Activity.

I can see both movies will cause me to suffer from a lack of sleep.

Now that doesn’t happen too often so when I’m really scared of something, a movie sticks in my mind and I think it’s cool.

Great job to the producers, writers and directors of these films, you affected my brain.

And I’d have to say I’m a movie buff and nothing fizzes me, but last night the combination of these 3 movies, kept the mental wheels turning to the early hours of the morning.

I actually had a panic attack, then I told myself, meditate and enjoy what you have now.

Do the best that you can and if the world ends, then I’ll have lived as humanly possible, doing what I can to help others, showing lots of love and care for my fellow human beings.

To make an impact on other people’s lives is a gift.

So anyone in Hollywood that is famous, has the papparazzi hounding them day and night, take note, use that to your advantage.

Stop, say something cool about world peace , get involved in a charity and do something good for the world.

You’ve been chosen by the Universe to make a difference here on earth, while your here.

Don’t waste the opportunity to do something good for the world.

I hope that Perez Hilton who has over 2 million views a day on the website, will take note and do something with all that popularity!

Here I am posting away and a freaky thing happened – Bon Jovi – It’s My Life starts playing!

The universe has a message for you today… listen to this song, let it touch your heart.

     Well-known actresses; Christina Applegate, Brooke Shields, and Tiffani Thiessen along with heart-throb “Twilight” actor, Kellar Lutz, sign the “Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare” petition called “Animals Matter to Me.” Supermodel Joanna Krupa also joins the list of stars throwing support behind the WSPA in raising awareness about animal welfare issues. The petition endorses a Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare, which urges adoption of an international agreement on the welfare of animals by the United Nations.

     The mainstream entertainment industry support brings vital attention to animal issues on a worldwide scale. We need to join the WSPA and Hollywood celebrities to promote global recognition that animals do matter. They can feel pain and suffering from abuse and neglect. We as thinking, feeling human-beings need to make it a priority to end animal cruelty everywhere in the world. We all must show support by signing the “Animals Matter to Me” petition at www.animalsmatterusa.org.

     World Animal Week is at a close, but we can still let the United Nations know that we understand the importance of all animal welfare. We have a responsibility to our animals whether they are companion animals in the home, or animals that supply crucial labor assisting families to survive and prosper. Animals matter to all of us.

     Over 1000 welfare groups in 150 countries have helped the WSPA build the world’s largest alliance devoted to ending animal suffering. Through its unique partnerships and programs, the WSPA promotes animal welfare concerns on a worldwide scale. The WSPA and its partners support a Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare at the United Nations. (1)If adopted, it will be the first international agree-ment recognizing that animals are capable of experiencing pain and suffering and that their welfare should be respected. More at: www.wspa-usa.org.

Citation Source:

1.   World Society for the Protection of Animals

“Celebrities Join the World Society for the Protection of Animals to Support World Animal Week” U.S. Newswire, U.S. Newswire 2009. Article date: September 24^th, 2009.

Miley-Cyrus-Liam-Hemsworth dating kiss

The airport kiss was pretty intense and no this is not part of a movie scene, or is it?

I’m glad to see that Miley is having fun with her costar.

No big surprise.

Who wouldn’t?

The guy is gorgeous. LOL

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You  can see the difference in body language here.

Liam comes across as a guy with an inflated ego who is high on himself.

At least that’s what I see in his pictures.

I hope he’s not using Miley to gather some fame and fortune!

What do you think of his pics?

They say that the eyes are the windows of the soul.

miley cyrus, liam hemsworth i know what your thinking

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Laura Griffin needs a reality check, women do not STEAL a boyfriend away.

The guy walks away willingly then HE’S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU.

Someone buy her the movie for Christmas, then maybe she’ll feel better.

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Such a shame that Liam made Miley delete her Twitter account.

That’s was the gossip mills are saying, and her 2 million followers must be suffering from Miley withdrawl symptoms.

Now TMZ will have to go looking for Miley instead of reading her tweets.

Is Liam Hemsworth trying to keep Miley Cyrus all to himself and not share her with her millions of fans?

Or is he trying to help her not be too verbal about her life on a daily basis.

I think sometimes when we write stuff, we forget that the world can see what we are doing every minute of the day.

I was laughing at a joke written in OK Magazine, back cover.

It said, Good lord, Twitter is down, now we have no idea what cereal Ashton Kutcher is eating this morning. LOL

That made me roar.

Demi tweetd about helping the Filipino people

I was watching the news about Typhoon Ondoy when Ms. Kris Aquino said that Demi tweeted about helping the Filipinos. So I decided to check it out to confirm it. And it’s true she really tweeted about it.

I’m so touched by her concern even though she’s not a Filipino she still care. And it made me love her more. It proved that she’s really so kind and caring. I love her now more than Taylor Swift but Taylor is till my second Idol (I’m sorry Taylor).  Please support Demi because she’s really a good person.

Love you Demi <3   <3    <3

…xoxo…

MIC

I think about Heavy Metal a lot. I listen to Heavy Metal… a lot. I buy Heavy Metal Music… very often. (Alright, that is a down right lie, I buy Heavy Metal Music – constantly). When I refer to Heavy Metal, just to simplify things here, I am incorporating all the Metal Music Genres in one. Heavy Metal… all things Metal Music. As I sit around towards midnight on this, September 17th going on the 18th… many Heavy Metal thoughts have crossed my Metal mind. Heavy Metal favorites have drifted around my head this late evening, uh, early morning, some unusual ones at that… here they are, enjoy:

Favorite Heavy Metal:

Decade – 1980’s… however, this decade were in now hasn’t been too shabby either for Heavy Metal. 

Television Show – Headbangers Ball… it was the best thing happening on the tube that time of night, uh, early morning. Watching it stewed or sober, it kicked butt period. 

Fashion – worn & torn blue jeans, high top sneakers (untied and dirty), sleeveless black concert shirt (faded) and no belt. Tattoos, hair style, fingerless gloves and body piercing optional. A denim/leather vest or denim/leather jacket makes for a nice touch. O.k., a belt is cool only if the buckle is bad ass. Please note: for Metal chicks, they can wear this too and add their own personal touches… just as long as they do not look like they are going to the prom, a high school reunion or job interview.

Movie – Escape From New York – this film did not need Heavy Metal Music… John Carpenter’s dark mind, imagination and music score… was enough. 

Super Villain – Doctor Doom, enough said.

Super Hero – Judge Dredd… Anthrax says so and I will not argue.

Restaurant – any drive thru window open after midnight.

Beverage – this one’s easy… beer, uh, keg beer.

Messiah – Lemmy Kilmister of Motorhead- it used to be Ozzy Osbourne but Sharon ruined the ambiance.

Food - Doritos… they were always there to save the night.

Comedian – Sam Kinison (RIP)… again, Anthrax liked him, even had his patented scream in their song I’m The Man.

Race – beer run.

Non Heavy Metal Band – The Doors… C’mon, were talking Jim Morrison here. The Lizard King… he could do anything. Cool.

Band named after a continent – uh, Europe.

Magazine from the past – RIP

High School Class – Metal Shop… for me it was, really, I made an ice pick and a screwdriver too. I still have them, technically they are now considered antiques.

Store – Wasteland… the name says it all. This place, well, it had it all.

Mystery – Bigfoot… the dude is huge and famous, chills out in the wilderness, answers to no one and pays no taxes. Plus, as a bonus, he does not have to pay outrageous prices for milk and toilet paper.

Holiday - Halloween… this is the one night of the year where you can put on a costume, act nuts, eat a ton of candy and deliberately scare people. The rest of the year, I would never even consider doing any of those things… except act nuts.

Yup, that is my list of Heavy Metal Favorites… for now. Maybe sometime down the Metal road, I will come up with a Heavy Metal Favorites List Part 2. Here’s hoping this list enlightened or frightened you, either way, thanks for reading it and visiting Metal Odyssey!

New social media had gone through great extent that even the world of politics and the world of pageantry are shattered (in a good way) by its influencing powers. Even the most beautiful people of the world are truly, madly and deeply affected by N.

Leonardo says pass the link

Locally, here in the Philippines, we have the Ako Mismo campaign all over. There’s link here and there. It has gotten really viral. At first really it was not clear to me what the campaign was about. But yeah, now it is clear. Recently, I have come across the video entitled 5 friends, which I provided here in my page. I think that perhaps this campaign is somehow the counterpart of our Ako Mismo campaign. Here’s 5 friends for you.  

The campaign maximize the use of New Social Media by advocating a change in the attitudes of the Americans towards election. I have identified three strategies. First is the use of the reverse psychology. Big Hollywood Stars tell the viewers the reason why they shouldn’t vote but then the rebuttals of all of those statements will finally come at the end. Second is the encouragement or actually the command of registering – that is online. They point out how easy it can get and they even wait for you to do so. And last is going viral. They ask you to pass the video link to 5 friends – reason behind the title – which as they say would make a difference. Watch it and then they’ll explain why.

The Hollywood Stars did not make this happen alone but also the strategy behind it – spreading it through the use of New Social Media — helped a lot.  

Skype wins Miss Universe pageant

Ms Universe was the most recent pageant that hit the attention of people all over the world. For quite some time now the online world had minor participations on this event. That is when people vote via online for the candidate of their choice for the most photogenic award. But this year upon watching the replay of the pageant, the online world had a major participation — question and answer portion of the pageant.

In the video below, in the next 3 minutes or so you will see how Ms Puerto Rico answered the question of last year’s winner Ms Japan via Skype. How techie the world can get that even in the world of beauty queens, New Social Media has been proliferating its powers. But can I just say that it is also one hell of a promotion from Skype. Way to go!

From politics to pageantry, surely N is unstoppable. So let us make the most out of it in a good way and not the other way around.

I was thinking about our celebrity Jennifer Aniston and wondered how is her love life these days?

Is she still hanging around with Gerard Butler or is there a new man on her radar?

I’m so used to seeing her plastered all over the tabloids and I haven’t seen much of her lately.

Maybe I’ve been blind to what’s going on in Hollywood.

Twilight New Moon has blinded my eyeballs to just watching Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner and the rest of that hunky wolf pack!

Then there is Brad Pitt!

I love his new movie Inglourious Basterds!

So I’ve been thinking a bit about him and just finished watching Burn After Reading on Cable Tv again.

I loved his funny, gum chewing antics in that movie, it makes me howl everytime I see him!

I think Brad Pitt is finding out that Comedy could become the next genre of movies for him!

I mean he’s been fabulous in the comedy movies, and not so hot in the drama, action stuff.

Maybe its time for a career change for some of Hollywood’s finest!

Why stick to the same old routine?

I think it’s an actor or actresses secret ambition to expand their horizons and find a new niche to star in!

I’ll have to do some more Googling on Jennifer and see whats the latest gossip about her!

I’ll only post it if its positive!

Gerard Butler GMTV interview on kissing Jennifer Aniston 2009 Ugly Truth Bounty Hunter

Jennifer Aniston & Gerard Butler Dating?

Jennifer Aniston Covers Elle Magazine’s September 2009 Issue

Jennifer Aniston Upset Bradley Cooper Dating Renee Zellweger

JENNIFER ANISTON on the set of “THE BOUNTY”

Jennifer Aniston Pictures & Videos

Gerard butler Jennifer Aniston The Bounty hunter movie film trailer Shut up and drive Rihanna

Jennifer Aniston On Set Of “The Bounty Hunter” – Shake It – Metro Station

How the biggest stars in Hollywood stay slim?

Here are the best top secret diet applied by the stars! Certainly you wondered what stars eat …
For a healthy diet drink more water! Kelly Clarkson prefers water, and changing her diet of fresh juices and turkey with a lot of water. Do not worry, the star not drink tap water, but a brand that has entered a contract. Another trick to lose weight is to eat more often. Firstly not skip breakfast and try that during the day to make small healthy dishes! When you want to get rid of bad food habits that will affect the figure, a solution is the control gate that will not help you eat more than necessary. Kelly Clarkson and Kirstie Alley are among the stars who have passed the gate.

Cardio exercises
Of course if you want to lose in time and feel great you do move! Try to do exercises and cardio. Nicole Kidman prefers to combine swimming in the pool with jogging. Beyonce says she lost about 7 kg dancing and running.

Pillates, Yoga or strength exercises
If you want to stay motivated to get a girlfriend or a coach who will not leave its inaction. An example is Eva Longoria says that the school is not out of bed without help coach them.
Many stars are adept software Pilates exercises and yoga, including Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow and Heather Graham. Molly Sims is also a devotee of the Pilates exercises and the snack it is the preferred raw almonds, not weight, and are rich in protein.
Jennifer Lopez prefer strength training in order to invigorate the body and its enviable, and Jessica Alba is a mix between running and strength room.

So besides what the stars eat to maintain siluetele, a serious exercise, more or less demanding, is the key to a healthy body and refreshing.

Note: Before starting any diet, consult your doctor.

twilighteclipse catalina-sandino-moreno as maria from jaspers past

Another lovely and very successfull actress by the name of Catalina Sandino Morena will join the Twilight Eclipse cast as Maria.

She will play the part of an evil vampire who created an army of baby vampires during a nineteenth century war!

How do you create an army with babies?

Now that alone sounds pretty interesting and should prove to provide some special effects in this movie!

Here she is in an interview about not being famous! LOL

Sorry chickie you star in Eclipse and you will be a star overnight!

She did this video in May 2009!

She was nominated for an award, and now she has landed a star role as Maria in Eclipse!

I think her ambitions have changed!

WARSAW, Poland – Polish fans joined together in song to wish Madonna a happy birthday at a concert in Warsaw Saturday evening — just hours before she turned 51.

In a break between two songs, a fan held up a sign wishing her a happy birthday and audience members sang, “may you live a hundred years,” a traditional Polish birthday song.

“I feel your love!” Madonna told the crowd of tens of thousands gathered on a large green field for the latest stop in her Sticky & Sweet

Many of the fans near the stage also held up paper hearts. One said: “Adopt Me.”

Her stop in Warsaw fell not only a day before her birthday, but also on the August 15, the Roman Catholic holiday celebrating the heavenly assumption of the Virgin Mary — timing that angered some Catholics.

Several people who objected to Madonna held up banners outside the concert venue, and a Catholic group tried to spearhead protests in past weeks hoping to force the Material Girl to change the date of the concert. It failed, however, to win support from the official church or the public. Though Poland, homeland of the late John Paul II, is mainly Catholic, young urban Poles have overwhelmingly embraced pop culture and mores.

During the concert, Madonna also paid tribute to Michael Jackson, who died in June.

A Jackson impersonator did the King of Pop’s signature moonwalk dance move while wearing a sequined jacket, white T-shirt, white glove and white socks, while a large photograph of him as a boy appeared on stage.

“Let’s give it up for one of the greatest artists the world has ever known,” Madonna shouted, and then segued into a performance of her old hit “Holiday.”

THANKS 

LOVE IT
IM A LADY GAGA FAN!

LOVE GAME

Marilyn Monroe allegedly miscarried Tony Curtis’ baby.

The blonde bombshell – who died in 1962 aged just 36 – reportedly had a fling with the Hollywood actor during the filming of 1959 movie ‘Some Like It Hot’, even though they were both married to other people.

Life-sized letters spelling California in front of Disney's California Adventures.

The home of Hollywood, gigantic Redwoods and Sequoias and a beautiful coastline, California has a lot to offer any traveler, whether you are looking for nature, nightlife, educational opportunities, breathtaking views or a night in the limelight.

I’ve had the opportunity to spend some time in quite a few cities in the Golden State of California as I took a road trip from north to south, stopping at all of the famous tourist spots and finding a few hidden gems along the way. Each city has its own special charm that keeps me begging for more. I will start in the north and work my way down, leaving no stone unturned or tip untold. Whatever you do, make sure to bring a camera and/or video camera to soak in the views, they are out of this world. I’ve included just a few to give you a hint to what’s out there.

Crescent City, CA
At the northernmost tip of California is Crescent City, a quiet fishing town with amazing views of the rocky shores of the Pacific Ocean and easy accessibility to  Highway 101 (follows the coast of the state all the way down–amazing views).

(TIP: It is a bit chilly here, even in the summer, so be sure to pack a long pair of pants and a jacket.)

The shores of Crescent City with unfamiliar seaweed and loads of smooth driftwood.

Klamath, CA
Not too far from Crescent City is Klamath, a small town with rolling green hills right off of Hwy 101, where you can actually drive your vehicle through a tree, yes I did write tree, these redwoods are ridiculously big! The attraction is called Tour-Thru Tree.

(TIP: This attraction may just seem like a person’s home, and it is, but arrive in the morning to avoid congestion at the attraction. There is also a more well known and similar attraction called Shrine Drive-Thru Tree in Myers Flat and there is a few more attractions there where you can drive on a giant redwood and play in a redwood treehouse.)

Driving through the Tour Thru Tree in Klamath, something you can't do many other places.

Another “must do” is the Redwood National Park. Though you are driving through the redwoods on Hwy 101, which I recommend, you should make multiple stops and take it all in, which is hard because there is so much to look at! 

Northern shores of California off of Hwy 101 throughout Redwood National Park.

Myself in comparison to a gigantic redwood at Redwood National Park.

There is also an area to pull off and you will hopefully get to see some elk eating, bucking or just hanging around. Let’s just say within these few miles I felt very small compared to my surroundings.

Bucking Elk off of Hwy 101 in Redwood National Park. (about 100 feet away)

(TIP: Be very quiet so you do not spook the elk and of course do not get too close, though they are probably used to humans to a certain extent, these are still wild animals.)

San Francisco, CA
I love nature, the serenity of the ocean and towering redwoods, but it was invigorating to get into the city, especially when that city is a lively harbor like San Francisco! There are plenty of hotels within walking distance of the harbor with stops for the trolly, tours of the city and Alcatraz, access to shopping and fairly inexpensive, yet delicious dining with great sunset views at the piers and photo opportunities of the barking sea lions who mate and rest there during the summer; and of course The Golden Gate Bridge. Be sure to visit the Boudin bread factory and restaurant as well as Lombard Street, between Hyde and Leavenworth streets to travel down “the crookedest street in the world.”

The Golden Gate Bridge in all its glory on a misty Summer morning.

Sea lions in the harbor of Pier 39 in San Francisco.

Lombard Street on Russian Hill, "the crookedest, most winding street in the world."

(TIP1: Book your tickets to Alcatraz before you arrive and make sure you are at the pier/loading dock early in order to get a good spot on the ferry to take pictures of this landmark attraction. Purchase the extra audio tour, there are some fascinating information and tips for taking great scenic photos.

Alcatraz Island

San Francisco Trolly and city tour with many facts about the city, great views of the steep streets and stops in well known shopping districts.

(TIP2: When on a city/attraction tour of any sort, give your tour guide & driver a small tip when you get on so they know they will be taken care of and will usually throw in a few extra jokes and tidbits about the location–ask questions too! At the end of the tour you can decide if you really enjoyed the tour and give a little extra, or simply say thank you and step off, knowing you already gave something. Keep in mind what you would like to receive if this was your job.)

Yosemite, CA
A national park that is righteously famous for its spectacular Sierra Nevada Mountain views, hiking, wildlife and waterfalls. There are many modern hotels in the park as well as a small grocery store, restaurant, camping areas and cabins. I took the mid ground and rented a cabin from Yosemite’s Scenic Wonders, which turned out to be more like a house and had a wonderful time. I even found pine cones over a foot long! I guess everything is bigger in California.

View of one of many valleys of Yosemite National Park.

One of many waterfalls in Yosemite Valley.

(TIP/WARNINGS:
1. Make sure to keep your food and garbage in provided lockers if you are camping, as there are bears and wildlife that are interested in what you brought.
2. If you are staying somewhere a little off the beaten path, like I did, be careful driving at night on the mountain as there are little to no streetlights, we city people are so accustomed to to guide the way.
3. If you plan on hiking make sure to bring plenty of water, hiking 1 mile may not seem like a lot to some people, but with heightened elevations, your body needs many pit stops and water breaks.)
 

Motown's own, Aretha Franklin, one of thousands recognized in the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Los Angeles, CA
The true home of Hollywood, downtown L.A. where the tourist attractions are, is a lot smaller than I first imagined, but there is a ton to do in such a compact area, that’s for sure. The walk of fame lines Hollywood Boulevard and Vine streets and features over 2,000 stars for those who impacted the entertainment industry. Mann’s Chinese Theater and Kodak theater are real movie theaters! They are quite elaborate and offer much more than say an AMC or MJR, but they play movies like any other theater, which I was surprised by. The Hollywood sign is short drive up Mulholland Highway where there is a lookout point where you can see the sign as well as much of the L.A. basin. (The sign is off limits to hikers and is guarded by a fence and alarm system to avoid vandalism.)  It is interesting to take a guided tour to stars homes up Mulholland Highway as well (tickets available at Mann’s Chinese Theater courtyard and many other locations, but I bought my ticket at this location and loved the tour my driver gave we even saw a few stars hanging out in their driveways with their kids!). Get in line for Jimmy Kimmel, all you have to do is sign up during the day outside the studio and return back at night for the taping to be a part of the in-studio audience, but arrive early in the evening to get a good spot in line, it’s first come, first served.

(TIP: CBS and other larger networks do tapings within a few miles of this area and you could be a part of their in-studio audience as well, but again, it is always first come, first served so plan on waiting a long time in line depending on the show even if you have ordered placeholder tickets online or by mail at times. (I had to spend the night on the street in line twice, in order to get on The Price Is Right, but it was worth it!)

There is also a Ripley’s believe it or not museum, The Guinness Book of World Records museum and the Hollywood Wax Museum on the strip for things to do. Some things I need to go back and see are the L.A. Zoo, The La Brea Tar Pits, UCLA’s campus and to spend more time on the warm, sunny beaches that are so close to the city as well.

(TIP: There are many hotels within a block or two from the Hollywood limelight of attractions, but I was on a small budget for a weekend trip once and stayed in  the Liberty Hotel; it was a small, low frills hotel, but it was literally right behind the Kodak theater for under $100 a night (depending on the season and yearly rates), so it was very convenient).

Hollywood Sign from Mulholland Highway lookout.

Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse at the entrance to Disneyland.

Anaheim, CA
Mickey Mouse’s first celebratory home–the home of Disneyland, which celebrated 50 years in 2006 is a great place for kids from 1-100 years old. I enjoy staying in the Disney themed hotels as they are very convenient to get to the park and it gets me excited to be there. As a Disney hotel guest, you also get the added perk of “extra magic hours” where you simply show your room key and get a wristband to either arrive a few hours early or stay a few hours later than guests who don’t stay at a Disney hotel. I stayed at the Disneyland Hotel, where there was a Neverland themed pool with Ariel’s Grotto and a pirate ship shaped slide into the pool (of course I had to try it just once).

(TIP: Extra magic hours are different each day and some rides may not be open for these extra hours, so be sure to check with the concierge or front desk. Also check for any attraction delays and show times to be able to get the most out of your visit in the time you are there.)

Disney’s California Adventure is more for adults, with a little higher fear tolerance needed when riding these rides, such as the giant ferris wheel that loops and swoops you over a large bay, yikes! Both of these parks are fairly small and weren’t too crowded when I was there in the beginning of August, so you could probably get by with spending one day there and still get to see everything at both parks. I am pretty well versed on everything Disney, so you may want to take a day for each park to really soak in all of the magic and pixie dust . There are many interesting shows with talented characters, enjoyable rides and fantastic parades, but the nightly fireworks show over Cinderella’s Castle is always a must for me–amazing!

Fireworks over Cinderella's Castle at Disneyland.

San Diego, CA
A culture rich environment with a lively nightlife and the best zoo I’ve ever been to! 

(TIP: There are many hotels near The San Diego Zoo in this historic city, so be sure to do a bit of research before you select your resting place as some are less modern and a bit more eerie than others. Park Manor Suites is a fairly nice hotel, but didn’t have the charm and modern accommodations its Web site boasts, nice restaurant with nightly entertainment though.) 

Though I have not spent much time in the city itself, I do know The San Diego Zoo is overwhelmingly interesting and educational. I tried to visit all of the 4,000 animal exhibits and see a few of the educational animal interactive shows and demonstrations, but one full day is definitely not enough even with the “Skyfari Aerial Tram” taking you from one end of the zoo to the other. Not only is it a great zoo to see a ton of animals, there is also lush vegetation, sculpted shrubs and large statues adorning the walkways and exhibits that are sure to please the eye.

(TIP: Bring comfortable walking shoes and take hydration breaks if you aren’t able to spend more than one day at the zoo, there is A LOT of ground to cover!) 

Not positive on the exact species of this primate, but he/she sure is cute!

Panda sleeping in the tree.

Playful polar bear.

If you are already on an animal kick, you should definitely check out Sea World as the bond between the animal trainers and their aquatic companions is very touching and they put on phenomenal shows together.

(TIP: Sit a bit higher in the grand stand if you do not want to get wet, or soaked really, by these massive killer whales and spunky dolphins. You will still get to see a great show and can walk away comfortably.)

Shamu!

Dolphin jumping high for the flag.

At the bottom of the state already? Yup! If you have any questions on any area I’ve covered or have any other insight to offer, please let me know, I’d be happy to update.

John Travolta’s friends are worried the Hollywood star is eating himself into an early grave.

WWE -Shaq -Shaquille ONeal, Chris Jericho , The Big Show – Raw – July 27, 2009

The beginning of the show where insults are hurled and Shaq makes fun of the Big Show and calls him “FAT BOY” LOL

Funny comedy sketch where Shaq challenges The Big Show to a match on Monday Night WWE RAW July 27, 2009.

shaq shaquille oneal monday night wwe raw july 27 2009

Big Show Monday Night WWE RAW July 27 2009 VS SHAQ

Cameron Diaz

Is Cameron Diaz Getting Married?  Looks like Cameron has made what you might call an “impulse decision”.  She is rumoured to be getting married to an unknown comic book fan.

Recently she was answering questions from an audience of fans at the Comic-Con 2009 convention in San Diego.  Someone called out from the audience to Cameron:  “Will you marry me?”

Cameron answered “Yes! Where are you?  Why not?”  Hollywood stars are notorious for marrying quickly after a few months of dating, but this one is really short term.  However, Cameron requires something of her new found fiance.  They must get married in Las Vegas.  “Can we get married in Vegas?  I always wanted to get married in Vegas.”