Amy McLean

Waterstone's to remove its apostrophe?

2012-01-12T04:03:00.000-08:00

If you live in fear of yet another one of my Grammar Nazi rants, you may wish to avoid my Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and every other form of communication with me for the next ten years.

Despite its high prices and poor stock, I adore Waterstone's. At least, I did until I read this: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2085471/No-problems-grocers-Waterstones-gives-apostrophe-practical-anymore.html

The above article addresses the fact that Waterstone's is to remove its apostrophe, claiming such actions are encouraged by the increase in technology that does not allow apostrophes. What a pathetic excuse. I left the following comment below the article, which has thankfully received quite a few positive ratings:

This is barbaric. Surely this is no less than a sign that the English language is being transformed into an noneducational mess? Technology is not an excuse; many other businesses hold apostrophes in their names, and they manage to cope just fine. The last thing the youths of today, with the tragically growing level of incompetence for the written word, need is a popular BOOK store to display an incorrect use of grammar. I'm appalled.

The written language, given the fact that it is the centre of my career, means the world to me. I don't want a store that is supposed to be encouraging academics misusing grammar by omitting a possessive apostrophe. After recording a very ranty video for YouTube about the issue, I actually sent out an email discussing the issue too. With no presence of hyperbole, this has actually ruined my day (and my life, if I have to continuously walk by the many Waterstone's stores across the country that will then display poor grammar). As soon as I see the first Waterstone's sign that is written, sickly, as 'Waterstones', I'm boycotting it.

Yes, that's just how much of a snob I am when it comes to grammar. I refuse to lower my standards. I have respect for the written word, and refuse to encourage a language that is degrading our nation. I'll stand by the fact that I, like others who actually care, possess an ability to write effectively and efficiently (though, with my current level of anger, I've no idea how I'm able to even sit still, never mind compose this post), and won't let pathetic little excuses from a book store which I will quickly label as 'chavvy' if they don't change their ways ruin that for me.

Waterstone's, please go and stand in the corner and think about what you've done.

Byron, thinspirational?

2012-01-03T06:19:00.000-08:00

I do believe it's never-ending.

A friend thrust a link my way this morning, within which was discussed the theory that Byron was one of the first "celebrity diet icons". Fair enough, I thought, he was deeply admired; I can seen how that would work. Upon reading the rest of the article, however, I discovered that Byron actually had rather severe eating problems.

A man cursed with an Eating Disorder, his diet consisted of little more than potatoes soaked in vinegar (and biscuits, apparently, which I found to be most peculiar. Who diets on biscuits?!). After gathering his weights and height together, I discovered his BMI fluctuated between 17 and 27 (give or a take a few, depending on the accuracy of the figures provided for such calculations). It seems that dear George Gordon did everything to the extreme (perhaps not extreme enough at the lower end of the two, but extreme none the less).

I ask you this: how come every admirable, and indeed interesting, character in my life has flaunted Anorexia in my face at some point or another? I've been battling with ED for six years now, with both Anorexia and Bulimia weaved across that time; the last thing I need is for the ever-successful (and ever-rampant) Lord Byron to warp my thoughts. Alas, the wee bastard has already infiltrated his poison into my mind to such an extent that the roots are already planted. Thinspiration is my weakness, but never did I think I'd be saying such powers came from Byron. My life is barbaric.

Thanks Byron. Thanks a fucking lot.

Amy x

REVIEW: Jane Austen: The Unseen Portrait?

2011-12-28T02:44:00.000-08:00

Click here to watch my video review.

Did her family consider her important enough? Does it hold any amateur flaws? Was it even in her character to pose alongside her work?

These are just some of the questions raised by Dr Paula Byrne on Jane Austen: the Unseen Portrait?. Alongside presenter Martha Kearney, she begins the journey into finding out whether or not the mysterious portrait she has come to own is in fact one of Jane Austen.

The portrait, looks not too dissimilar from her sister Cassandra's sketch, the softened image we all know and recognise as looking like Austen. However, with its striking qualities, this 'new' portrait presents us with more sharp features, characteristics that many Janeites would rather choose not to be significance to Miss Austen. Across the hour long programme, we are invited to watch the vast dissecting of all elements of the portrait, from examining the materials used to produce the picture, to the signature on the back, and even the clothes the subject wears.

The Unseen Portrait does allow you to make up your own mind, giving you the chance to piece together all that we have learned about the possibilities of the portrait. However, with Dr Paula's convincing pitch to a panel of experts, one could quite easily be swayed in view. It is definitely a thought provoking experience, one that is not stuffed full of unnecessary detail or excessive adoration. It is, instead, a delightful opportunity to gain a historical insight into Austen's life as a writer in the early 19th Century. The question is, however, do you feel that this once unseen portrait could be the real image of Jane Austen?

Amy x

REVIEW: The Many Lovers of Miss Jane Austen

2011-12-26T14:15:00.000-08:00

Click here for the video review.

I'll be the first to admit that I'm not the world's biggest fan of Jane Austen's novels. Sure, I may have only read two, but even that's enough to tell me that they all centre around marriage, or money, or the interlinking of marriage and money (the recurring theme is not hard to identify, to put it bluntly). However, I do find her life to be one that is most fascinating to study, so I was rather looking forward to watching BBC's The Many Lovers of Miss Jane Austen. The big question, however, asks: did it deliver?

In short, yes. It took a different approach to what I was expecting though. The show's presenter - historian and writer Amanda Vickery - takes us along with her to an Austen convention, where we see rare items being auctioned off for extraordinary prices. We're given an insight into how Austen's work compared alongside others of the time, as well as the journey the classics took before reaching the high state of popularity they've peaked at now.

Not quite to a biographical extent, we do learn a little about what the author's life would have been like during the years of her publication, and also why she wished to remain anonymous with her work. The latter part, I found to be most fascinating, and exceedingly thought provoking.

Pieced together well, each section of the hour long programme flowed without interruption. Input from other historians, as well as Austen fans, helped fit together all elements of the exploration into Austen's life, to give us a wider view of the sensation she's become. The scale of popularity is impeccable. The festive period has produced us, this year, with many delightful TV shows connected with the great author, and this is one I'd most certainly recommend.

Amy x

What the Dickens?!

2011-12-19T11:05:00.000-08:00

I won! I actually won!

As much as I love playing with words, I cannot write fiction. I lack the ability to develop my ideas, and cannot create characters that are well rounded. Regardless, I decided to enter the Waterstone's competition, for which one had to create a Dickensian character:

Mr Chuff. Chuff is an elderly gentleman with no first name. He appears to spend all of his days sitting in his ancient red armchair, a dusty old bookcase, overflowing with volumes, positioned by his side. Through the top of his glasses, he peers at those who enter his home, something which is a rarity. With few visitors, Mr Chuff seems to be an outsider. Yet, it's apparent that he has more wisdom than that which exists in the entire Universe. What is this man's past? Where did he come from? And perhaps more importantly, why does he only wear one slipper? x

I found out a mere few hours ago that I am the proud winner or a gorgeous collection of Dickens books, courtesy of Duckworth Publishers. Having only read my first Dickens story, A Christmas Carol, two days ago, I'm more than keen to plough through his collection. It's fate, without a doubt!

I can't wait for them to arrive; they look gorgeous.

Amy x

In Memory of Angie Dowds

2011-11-23T12:39:00.000-08:00

Sometimes in life, things will happen which take us by surprise. When I awoke this morning to the news that Biggest Loser trainer Angie Dowds had committed suicide, I was lost for words.

To keep this brief, I just want to say that my thoughts are with her family and friends. She certainly came across as a passionate, and indeed successful, woman with her career, and only wish that there was a chance to turn back the clock. Rest in peace, Angie, you were a true inspiration.

x

ManFest 2011!

2011-11-11T09:35:00.001-08:00

Having booked the tickets several months back, I'd been counting down to the 9th November, the very day when I'd get to see, for the first time, Jason Manford live. Some two and a half years ago, I fell in love with stand up comedy. Now I'm one of the most unfunny people you'll ever meet, but I know what I like from a comedian, and Jason Manford became an instant favourite. Years after adoring his work, I've finally had the chance to meet him!

Before the gig, I was lucky enough to be one of the first people in the queue in WHSmith to see him at his Brung Up Proper book signing (brilliant book - I bought four copies - you must read it!). Well, that was just sensational! An hour and a half after that, and I was seated comfortably in the Metro Radio Arena, the stage not too far away, Jason spotlighted and in his element.

The only comedians I'd seen live prior were Caroline Rhea and Costaki Economopoulos, but having watched Manford on TV for years, I knew pretty much how this was going to go. However, I'd just like to say that it's so much more exciting when you're in the room; the atmosphere is sensational! If you ever get a chance to see him live, to take up that offer!

ManFest 2011 was absolutely perfect; it couldn't have run more smoothly. Jason was a delight at his book signing, utterly hilariously at his gig, and an utter peach to be in the presence of! I'll certainly treasure that day forever.

Amy x

Click here to read my article on the Evening Chronicle website, as featured in the 'paper 11/11/11.

Derek Acorah's True Vision tour, Sunderland Empire, Sunderland UK

2011-11-08T00:22:00.000-08:00

When one has waited an incredibly long time for something, they can often fear that it won't be as good as they'd perhaps hoped. This was certainly my concern as I clutched my front row ticket to see psychic medium Derek Acorah on his True Vision tour at the Sunderland Empire last night. Thankfully, I needn't have worried.

Having fallen in love with his work some seven years ago, at the age of twelve, I knew straight away that it was impossible for me to let his stop in Sunderland bypass me. The excitement had, of course, built up inside of me at a steady rate over the months that followed the booking of my ticket, however I hadn't prepared myself for the intense sensation of utter contentment that followed the moments after he first walked onto the stage. Bloody hell, I'm sat in front of Derek Acorah!, I thought. I couldn't have been more ecstatic.

The tour itself allowed Derek to interact with the audience, seeing Sam help him deliver messages from the spirits of audience members' loved ones who had come along to the demonstration. Never did you feel like Derek was lifting the thoughts from his own head; he was so descriptive with his words that you could quite easily visualise the spirits around him. One particular being in the atmosphere who stayed in my mind was a woman called Rose, who, I believe, had passed away at the age of 78. A heavy smoker and a little snooty, I actually felt like I'd known this lady myself in her physical body. Of course, this couldn't possibly so, but Derek never leaves the audience out when sharing information with specific audience members; we're all sucked into the emotional journey.

One could quite easily expect such an evening to be gloomy and depressing. On the contrary, Derek was full of life and hilarity. It's clear to see from his high energy that he's very excited to be on the stage, always embracing his gift and doing so very passionately too. Of course, I've never doubted Derek's abilities as a medium, however, if a skeptic were to see the show, they'd certainly be put in their place! Derek kept churning out information that was received to be correct; the believer does not need proof, but if they wanted such like, then Derek could certainly offer something of the sort.

I was fortunate enough to meet the delightful Derek after the show; I was the last in the queue and had a small wait, but it was certainly worth it, and so much more personal since it was only my friend and I left in the building (security and crew aside!). My five-minute conversation left me with much more information than I'd ever intended receiving from Mr Acorah. He said a few things that shocked me, delightfully, and a few that won't ever leave me. Over the foundations of his passion, he's layered knowledge, to create a combination that is nothing less than perfection. He's such a wonderful person, with an equally gorgeous soul. Whether you're already a supporter of Derek Acorah's work, or are just keen to see how a demonstration works, his True Vision tour is one not to be missed.

Amy x

Click here to read my article!

Bonfire Epiphany!

2011-11-05T17:09:00.000-07:00

I'm a very religious person. I'm not christened, but I'd consider myself to be Christian. However, I've also dabbled in Wicca, and only stopped practicing when the fear of going against the Lord's commands entered me.

Now this may all seem trivial, you may wonder why I am telling you this, but I actually had a small epiphany today! I've always been afraid of fire, once to the extent of pyrophobia, but I had no real reason for this. I'm fortunate enough to have never been involved in any fire-related incidents. Regardless, the somewhat irrational behaviour was always there.

Whilst gazing into the Bonfire this evening at a fireworks display, the glimmer of the moon, my power source, caught my attention from just above it. It was then, at that precise moment, that it hit me. I've witch blood running through me! None of my immediate family are Wiccan, nor were any of my traceable ancestors. However, I strongly believe that my deceased relatives from the 1600s were once witches.

This is the only logical explanation for my desires to go against Christianity and dabble in white magic. This also gives me a good cause, given the burning of said witches, for my hatred towards fire. I mourn for the death of those witches. Just because one is different does not mean they should be cast aside. They're my family, they didn't deserve hatred.

My beliefs will always lie within the Bible, with its allegories and morals, but in my heart there'll always be that sense of belonging in the world of Wicca. I cannot prove that any of this is the case, but I know it to be so.

Amy x

Happy Halloween! (2011)

2011-10-31T01:56:00.000-07:00

Hey everybody!

Just a quick message to wish you all a very Happy Halloween! As you may know, Halloween is my favourite holiday so I'm very excited indeed!

If you're going trick o' treating, to a party or just for a wander in the luscious Halloween air under the heavenly moon this evening, please do stay safe. Make the most of this day - it only comes around once a year!

Happy Halloween, all!

Amy x

A trip to Seaham!

2011-10-30T02:20:00.000-07:00

Upon the recommendation of a lecturer of mine, Emily and I decided to take a day trip to Seaham! Okay, so we'd have visited inside Seaham Hall but if you take a look at the restaurant menu prices, I'm sure you'll understand why this was not a practical option for us! Instead, we spent a little while near the beach and then in the city centre, where we found not only Byron Place Shopping Centre, but also street names relating to literary greats, and a delightful little library too! I thought I'd share the photos from our adventure with you...

Amy x

Oh, Joyce...

2011-10-29T01:05:00.001-07:00

Right, it's time to say that enough is enough!

Over the last few weeks I've been trying to adapt my mind to James Joyce's modernist (mentalist?) way of thinking. A moment after I feel I've caught hold of what he's saying, I lose it again. However, in my persistent ways I shall never give up with him!

Having read A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, which I found satisfactory, I moved onto Dubliners. Sadly that did not deliver so much. Nevertheless, I'm now tackling Ulysses: 49 pages in and I find the concept of whacking Joyce over the head with the brick of a book most desirable! I just don't understand how "...wayawayawayawayawayaway. Paper." can comprehend for a good read! A few pages later he talks about wiping his nose-mess onto a rock...

Joyce, I shall never give up on you. If you fail to amuse me with Ulysses, then I shall move onto Finnegan's Wake. Indeed, I shall tackle the latter regardless of the outcome of the former. Your words are bizarre, but your peculiar mind is somewhat admirable. With around 650 pages left of this piece of..., we only (a long) time will tell.

Oh, and I didn't appreciate the fact that I was forced to dream about Stephen Dedalus last night. In C21st surroundings, he doesn't cope too well! Thanks for that, Joyce.

Amy x

Rock 'n' Roll Heaven, Sunderland Empire

2011-10-20T09:19:00.000-07:00

Read the full article here: http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/entertainment-in-newcastle/theatre/2011/10/20/revisit-rock-n-roll-vibe-72703-29629782/

'Young, Dumb & Living Off Mum' Series 3, episode 5 & 6

2011-09-19T10:25:00.000-07:00

First of all, my sincerest apologies for the lack of blogpost about last week's episode; time ran away from me somewhat! However, to make up for such appalling behaviour, I shall give you both the aforementioned episode and the final episode right now!

Okay so last week's challenge I thought was quite exciting. A lot of patience, and indeed confidence, is required when working with children and I feel that Ryan especially coped remarkably with his role as Stumpy the Good Pirate. Ruby-Jo did worry me for a moment that she was going to give up completely, however she managed to turn herself around at the last minute - what a relief!

Jack and Tom didn't do as well as the other two but I still felt that they gave quite a good performance, and coped well with the screaming birthday 'Princess' who was demanding her birthday crown (as mentioned in the programme, hadn't she heard of the word please?! What a madam!). The outcome of that episode wasn't too bad. By this stage it was hard to pick who I wanted to go, as I felt they all deserved a place in the final.

The final of course was just as spectacular as the two series' finals previous. Now we were told that the parents set the final work challenge, however considering the last three series' have all seen house renovations, I find this hard to believe! Again, I felt Ryan did wonderfully as he was the first to buy all of the products he needed and admirably stuck within his budget too.

Ruby-Jo didn't do too bad at all, neither did Tom. Of course, it was all building up to the grand announcement of Series 3's winner, and I could not have been more thrilled! I shan't spoil it for you, but let's just say the winner has been consistent from day one with a positive, caring attitude. They definitely deserved to win - I couldn't be more proud of them! Now we just need to sit as patiently as possible and wait for the next series (fingers crossed that there will be one!) and hope that it's at least half as good as this year's! Yes, I'm very satisfied with the third series of Young, Dumb and Living Off Mum!

Amy x

Official TVCriticAmy logo!

2011-09-13T08:06:00.001-07:00

After spending a few hours today battling with modern technology, I finally came up with my brand new, official logo for my YouTube channel, TVCriticAmy.

Here it is:

What do you think?

Amy x

'Young, Dumb & Living Off Mum' Series 3, episode 4

2011-09-06T07:53:00.000-07:00

With the number of Young Dumbers in the house slowly decreasing, things are beginning to get tense...

It seemed that this week's episode focused around two things in particular: the set work challenge, and Gracie's little accident!

Let's face it, if you were to lose money, you'd be upset wouldn't you? However, when you've come from a life of being handed every penny you could possibly ask for, to misplacing your entire small supply of money for the week and leaving you with nothing, you're going to fret a little! I can understand entirely why Gracie was upset with this. I panic insanely where money is concerned and am constantly checking my purse in case I've dropped anything. I was thrilled to see the others pitch in to at least buy her something to eat; they should feel proud.

The work challenge for this week is one which would personally excite me to levels indescribable! Sure, I'd rather have volunteered in a cat shelter, but working in with the dogs would have been immense fun. Ryan seemed especially excited for the challenge to commence and this enthusiasm remained with him throughout as he bonded with his allocated pooch.

Jack and Tom actually did quite well, a lot more so than I feel the chief volunteers gave them credit for. I mean, who would want to spend the entire experience cleaning dog shit?! It was nice to see Gracie cheer up a little thanks to 'man's best friend'.

Oh, and I cannot finish this without mentioning the fact that Ryan and Ruby-Jo decided to spend an afternoon pretending to be homeless, all the while Ryan wearing a pair of Spongebob Squarepants socks (clean looking socks, I should add!). It amused my simple mind incredibly.

The conclusion of the episode I wasn't pleased with. Saying that, I didn't really want anybody to leave so I wasn't going to be happy regardless of who was voted out. With only just a few episodes left, I'm starting to feel a little saddened by the fact that it's drawing to an end. I've made a firm decision that I'd like Ryan to win, but whether or not this will be the outcome we shall have to wait and see! Until next time...

Amy x

Build-a-Bear: Calendar Girls bear!

2011-09-04T00:36:00.000-07:00

Having worked at Build-a-Bear Workshop for nearly two months now, I decided that it was about time that I built a bear myself! It's so challenging to resist the temptation of buying all of the bears (I have my eyes on Fudge puppy, ginger kitty and Autumn bear just now!), but the bear I helped fluff up yesterday is not for myself!

You know when you get an idea, a very spur of the moment thought, and you simply know that you shall not rest until you carry that idea through? Well this was one of those moments. I'd decided to buy Lynda Bellingham a 'Calendar Girls' bear. Familiar with the shop's stock, I straight away knew which items I needed to piece the bear together!

So we start with a Coconut Cup - one of the store's cheapest two bears (£9). It's a gorgeous soft cream colour, very basic but worked wonders for this purpose since the show's main colour scheme is white and yellow. After stuffing the new bear up, I added a purple heart (£1) inside of her, and this donates money to the National Literacy Trust. I like to be charitable!

Moving on, I collated all of the clothes I needed. This was nothing more than a basic white robe/dressing gown (£8), matching perfectly with the promotional photos for the production. I also picked up a small bouquet of flowers (£2.50) for Chris to hold (Chris being the name of Lynda's character in the production). I chose the bouquet with the yellow flower on it since the symbol for the play is the sunflower, however there was also a daisy, a tulip and another purple flower on there too! It looked very pretty!

Then came the birth certificate! A very fun process I find, inputting the bear's special details. Then I bought her! Money exchanging hands, she was mine (but only for a short while as she goes to her new owner on the 14th September!). The finished product has been tied together with a lovely piece of yellow ribbon, with yellow and white ties holding the birth certificate in place.

Lynda may think I'm mental (that's if she already doesn't!) but Chris Bear is absolutely adorable and at the very least, I had great fun making her!

Amy x

'Knots and Crosses' by Ian Rankin

2011-09-01T08:06:00.000-07:00

"Noughts and...oh, Knots and Crosses?! That looks...well I've no idea. I've never read anything by Ian Rankin. Let's give it a go!".

The glorious tourist shell surrounding Edinburgh acted merely as a mask to the troubles that lurked within, as two young girls have been found murdered after abduction. It's apparent that the two cases are connected, and it's up to Detective Sergeant John Rebus to find out why. However, things start to become a little too personal for him; just how much of his past is set to haunt him?

I have to admit, being a huge fan of crime TV shows I wasn't too sure if a novel of the same nature would be able to deliver so efficiently. I can now confirm though that I needn't have worried. Rankin provides just enough snippets of information as the chapters progress to allow us to try and work out who we think the criminal is, without ever giving the game away.

In fact, my predictions weren't even near close to the final outcome, the delightful surprise of the closing chapter leaving me satisfied with the read. The characters develop well throughout, with only the one slightly irritating, but relevant person cropping up every so often (watch out for Stevens, he may just frustrate you too!). Gill Templer I especially liked, her role bringing a glimmer of positivity to the otherwise dark case.

Without a doubt, I'd recommend Knots and Crosses. It wasn't difficult in the slightest to get into - I was hooked in straight away - and it's not really a challenge to follow either, despite the often high level of information which one may be required to balance at one given time. Definitely an author I'll be going back to, Ian Rankin as proved to me that crime novels can be just as fulfilling as watching similar stories unfold on TV!

Amy x

'Young, Dumb & Living Off Mum' Series 3, episode 3

2011-08-29T02:01:00.001-07:00

*may contain spoilers*

Three episodes in, and my excitement for BBC3's Young, Dumb and Living off Mum is just as great as it was when the first series began back in 2009.

In true Young Dumber style, the show kicked off this week by highlighting the latest feud (clearly the revelation that Sophie's departure some two weeks ago was going to bring harmony to the house was very short lived!). Tom and Jack have developed somewhat of a Bromance, but for a while this just caused a lot of tension in the house, resulting in a rather messy food fight. In hindsight, I hope the food-throwing culprits realise that this was quite an immature measure to turn to! I detest food fights. Yuck.

The task of the week dominated most of the air time throughout the hour-long episode however. The six were to set up a pop-up restaurant in the house for, initially, twenty five guests (see image below). However, it turned out that thirty guests had arrived and the Young Dumbers were blamed for not having enough seats or plates. Now correct me if I'm wrong, but if one was told twenty five guests, and thirty would turn up, one has the right to scream?

When you've never cooked before, delivering a three-course meal is never going to be an easy task. When you add the extra pressure, it's going to be quite intense! I actually feel that they all did really well! The Young Dumbers were divided into two groups; the kitchen staff: Tom, Ruby-Jo and Jade, and the front-of-house team: Jack, Ryan and Gracie. With a few hiccups along the way, the food seemed to be prepared rather efficiently by the amateurs, with the meals delivered with respect and care to the 'guests'.

Okay so perhaps things didn't go perfectly but it was clear to see that they put in 100% effort, if not more, so I do feel that Gareth was complaining a little too much. Sure, they lost him £150 as many of the guests were too rude to see that this was the Young Dumbers' first try at cooking and abandoned their seats entirely. However, I believe they did try as much as they could and one should never be punished for doing as well as they possibly could.

I have to say, the outcome of the elimination was a relief. I've nothing against the person who went out per say, however, I simply prefer the five remaining Young Dumbers! With another satisfying episode over with, it's onwards to next week...!

Amy x

^ Proof that they were told 25 guests initially, for which they had prepared themselves to cater for!

Two screen snaps I loved- a random fox, and Ryan petting a cute dog!

Kai Jenkins, rap artist

2011-08-26T07:37:00.000-07:00

There's a cliche thought that the kids of today's generation lack ambition; it's often said that they care about nothing more than crime, violence and 'dossing around'. However, if one takes a deeper look into societies, one will see that this stereotyping is not necessarily a fair evaluation.

One teenager certainly shines above these assumptions. Kai Jenkins certainly holds a passion, which is made clear across his YouTube channel, KaiJenkinsMusic.

The fourteen year old, the eldest child of British actress Danniella Westbrook, uploads his work to his personal account online, sharing his talents as a rap artist. Not only does he write his own lyrics to accompany his music, but you'll also find a selection of his own music videos, adding to the expression of creativity.

Jenkins shows a great level of originality and personalty. His dedication is clear, the high level determination and ambition glowing around his videos. With his great talent and ambitions, it'll be exciting to see how far he has climbed within the next decade! If ever you need proof that teenagers do in fact know how to work for what they want, KaiJenkinsMusic is all the evidence you'll need!

Amy x

You can visit Kai Jenkins' channel, KaiJenkinsMusic here.

You can see my personal favourite video of his here!

Analysing Smash Hits! radio...

2011-08-23T13:23:00.001-07:00

I used to listen to Smash Hits! radio on a daily basis; it was the only way I was able to keep up to date with today's music, I'm so out of sync! However, I did notice that there was quite a high level of repetition with the songs they play. So, I've just popped in my headphones and have decided to give it a listen for one hour solid. Having studied Radio, I've grown to love stations targeted at a slightly more, shall we say, mature audience? However, I'm going in to this music station with an open mind. Let's see what they throw at me...

SCHEDULE
(Start time: 9:30pm)

Mike Posner - Cooler than Me

One Direction - What Makes You Beautiful

Justin Bieber - You Smile

Jennifer Lopez - On the Floor

Cover Drive - Lick Ya Down

The Wanted - Glad You Came

Jessie J - Dude it Like a Dude

Example - Changed the Way You Kiss Me

Nelly and Kelly - Dilemma

JLS - She Makes Me Wanna

Alexandra Burke - Bad Boys

Leona Lewis - Collide

Usher - DJ Got Us Falling in Love

P!nk - Who Knew?

Nicki Minaj - Super Bass

Adverts - (One Day movie, Barclays Student Account, Toyota igo)

Chris Brown ft. Justin Bieber - Next to You

Olly Murs - Thinking of Me

(Finish time: 22:30)

Okay, we had a good start. I do like Cooler than Me, it's an addictive song and great to sing along to! This positivity remained throughout the second song too; I'd been meaning to check out 1D's debut single, so thank you SH! radio for allowing me to do so! It's quite a catchy one, that's for sure!

On dear, the third song has forced me to admit that I do in fact like Justin Bieber. I think SH! has melted my brain. As much as I'd like to question his somewhat cocky personality, he does have a good voice and a lot of his tracks are rather enjoyable! The fourth song too was most enjoyable, one I've enjoyed listening to for a few weeks now!

The fifth track of the hour was sadly not so good; the lyrics to Lick Ya Down are appalling. The tune isn't too bad the but general feel of the song is just...minging! Had never heard of the song that followed but quite enjoyed it!

Ah, now Dude it Like a Dude I love (in fact, I love it so much that I have it on my iPhone!). That was a cheery little treat there! However, the song that followed didn't impress me in the slightest! Bummer. Although it's not a song I care for, it was nice to see a slightly older song withDilemma thrown in there to take us to the top of the hour!

The tenth track wasn't too bad. I do like JLS but She Makes Me Wanna certainly isn't one of my favourite options of theirs! I was actually overjoyed though when I realised immediately that I recognised the song that followed - not a bad option in there at all from Alexandra Burke!

We appear to stick with the apparent X Factor theme with Collide being the twelfth track, a song by Leona Lewis I'd not previously heard. Well, it isn't too bad, I'll give it that! Track thirteen bored me near to tears.

Ah, P!nk! I actually knew this one straight away too, I'm quite proud of myself! A good option to cheer me up after the tragic latter! However, Nicki Minaj, I'm not impressed in the slightest with what you had to offer!

Slotting in two minutes of adverts at twenty-three minutes past the hour seems quite a peculiar thing to do, but I shan't complain - the two minutes of adverts were appropriate to the target audience and were slightly entertaining (only slightly!).

Now before I set the time on this challenge, Next to You had been playing at what would have been the same time exactly an hour ago...does this mean the next hour will be identical to the previous? To provide myself with an answer I kept listening for a little while. Thankfully, just before my scheduled hour was up, Olly Murs came on so I was overjoyed, both by the song choice and the fact that SH! weren't going with the repetition method! Following on we had songs from J-Lo (I'm into You), Nicole Scherzinger (Wet) and Ne-Yo (Beautiful Monster) so you can safely listen to the station for more than an hour without tiring of the same songs!

What impresses me most about Smash Hits! radio is the quantity of songs played in a one-hour period. To have seventeen tracks and just one advert break is pretty good going; most people will turn over to another station during commercials but at least this was not a temptation here.

The option for callers to contact the station and request their favourite songs is a nice little option too, however the fact that only recorded voice mails are played does make it a little less personal, with no connection being made due to the lack of presenter on the show!

The SH! ident breaks up the songs nicely so we know when a clear segue is being made. However, none of the tracks are actually introduced! You either have to know the song, or recognise the artists' voices, or as I did, Google the lyrics to the songs you've never heard of before to find out the track names! It's a little irritating, but a problem which can be solved.

In all, I'd say Smash Hits! radio is definitely worth listening to. Over an how during the evening show there is a good level of diversity in artists, with the modern music themed all the way through. I don't think I could cope with it on a daily basis, however I shall definitely tune in now and then if only just to try and stay 'down wit da kidz'! (Yes, you can roll your eyes if you wish...)

Amy x

(You can listen to Smash Hits! radio here!)

'Young, Dumb and Living Off Mum' Series 3, episode 2

2011-08-22T06:48:00.001-07:00

WARNING: may contain spoilers.

With Sophie now away from the show, one would except harmony to be infiltrating throughout the house. However, not all was quite as straight forward...

The work placement task for the second week, I found to be quite impressive. The eight Young Dumbers were required to work in a fish market, packing and selling fish. Now I'll hold my hand up and admit that this is something which would make me gag. I don't fancy sticking my fingers into slimy fish eyes, not in the slightest. Nonetheless, it seemed that the majority of the Young Dumbers actually did quite well! Jade especially showed efficiency when studying the fish, and Gracie managed to forget about the squirmy side of the dead animals and got on with the job as instructed. When it came to finding the locations for delivering fish, this task too was completed much more smoothly it seemed than previous series' tasks (remember when they had to deliver flowers the series previous and it took one group forever?!).

The job challenge may have went well, but it was the atmosphere in the house which wasn't too rosy. The group ended up being divided: Enzo, Ruby-Jo, Jade, Gracie and Ryan all willing to work on a rota and do their bit, with Tom and Jack not showing so much as a caring thought. Where will this leave the house next week?

The elimination left me rather annoyed. I've four favourites, and one of those four were asked to leave. I'll be honest, they did seem the most head strong and the one most likely to cope in the 'real world' if they left now, however I still loved having them in the series!

Two episodes down and I'm still very much buzzing with excitement from this third series. I can't wait until next week's episode, but until then...

Amy x

This is my favourite screen snap from the episode - Ryan swinging a pig cushion!

Celebrity Big Brother 2011 (Channel 5)

2011-08-19T02:18:00.001-07:00

(Video review: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I7aSqGKf9LY )

I don't like it. I don't understand how it lasted so long, and I can't get my head around why Channel 5 would wish to broadcast the show.

I've never liked Big Brother. I think I half-followed one series about five years ago but even that was done with just one eye open. When I heard it'd been axed by Channel 4, I was quite delighted. Finally I'd be able to switch on the TV and sigh with relief knowing that I was safe from the mind-numbing TV.

When I heard the rumours that Charlie Sheen was apparently being offered a large sum of money to appear on the revamped Channel 5 version, I did smile a little. Much to many people's disgust, I adore Mr Sheen and his involvement in the show would have perhaps persuaded me to at least check in with the show now and again.

Sadly, it was not meant to be. I didn't watch the launch last night - I have far more important things to do with my time - however, the lovely people of Twitter kept me well updated on who was going into the house. I have to admit, when the first into the house was Kerry Katona, I was a little delighted. Perhaps this was going to be Celebrity Big Brother after all; Channel 4 had a habit of introducing non-celebrities into such a series, which I laughed at incredibly.

We also have Amy Childs. I was ready to gouge my eyes out at that point. How can somebody who's famous just for being famous get anywhere in life? I know this contradicts what I've said about Katona, but...well, I like Kerry! I am not a fan of Childs in the slightest. Not one little bit. No way. Never. Ew.

We then have a bunch of people who I've never heard of: Tara Reid, Paddy Doherty, Darryn Lyons, Sally Bercow, Pamela Bach-Hasselhoff, Bobby Sabel. Having done a small amount of research on Bercow, I can at least conclude that there's a slight amount of diverse personalities in the house now.

If I had to predict a list of names of who I thought might have gone into the house, never would I have said Lucien Laviscount. Maybe I'm just not cool, maybe I'm too old, but despite his appearances in a few TV shows I've watched he's not a personality I've ever really cared for. However, it's an entirely different story with the last 'housemate' to enter.

Of course, I'm referring to Jedward! I absolutely adore the Irish twins; they're so full of energy and live. I think they'll bring a refreshing bounce to the show. Sure, previous contestants have often displayed high energy, but generally it's fuelled with hatred or insanity. John and Edward seem to have nothing less than a love for life and this should (I stress should) add an air of admiration in the house. I'm not holding my breath though.

It seems that not many people are 'feeling the love' for the show's new host, Brian Dowling. I do have to admit, while I like his character, I do feel that Davina made the show. Even though I didn't like the show, I did enjoy seeing Davina's enthusiasm and craziness on the occasion that I'd put on C4/E4 in the hope to watch a FRIENDS rerun, only to discover that yet another series of Big Brother was getting in my way. The world does miss McCall.

One episode down and I'm already annoyed with the show. Not even the lovely Jedward twins can make me watch it. I'm probably going to watch a couple of Jedward-based clips every now and then, but I'm praying they're the first to go! This is not because I don't want them to win - I very much do want them to win - but I don't want to even have to think about Celebrity Big Brother!

It seems that this is the beginning of a very long and frustrating road. Big Brother, I'm afraid I just don't care about you. Please try and not infiltrate my life, that'd be much appreciated.

Amy x

Looking Back at Subject Choices...

2011-08-18T06:43:00.000-07:00

Since today' is A-Level results day, I thought it would be the perfect time to look back over the subject choices I made back in my school days (which, quite frankly, were not that long ago!).

Now I didn't do A-Levels. Because I went to secondary school in Scotland, I naturally studied a Scottish education. The GCSE equivalents there are known as 'Intermediates' and 'Standard Grades', with the A-Level equivalents being 'Highers' and 'Advanced Highers'. Now my school didn't offer Advanced Highers as such, but more on this later.

I was fourteen when I had to make my first set of subject choices. At that age do you really know what you want? Well, yes and no. Having made my career decision at just seven years old, I'd learned by that point that diversity was part of the key to success in the TV industry. So, I decided to try a few different subjects. We did have a few compulsory subjects: English, Maths, German, RE and PE. I'll be honest, none of those subjects bothered me, and English I adored anyway, so I'd have probably kept most, of not all of them anyway.

We were required to take a Science, so I chose Biology. Good choice? No, not really! I detested it! Looking back, I think Physics may have been the better option, but never mind! As well as this, I also opted for Computing, History, Geography and Music. Here's the thing: given the fact that I spent a lot of time on the computer, choosing that first subject was a sheer waste of time. What I learned, I've never used since - why would I need to know how to draw a snail just by typing in certain key combinations?! Music was fun, but hasn't been too useful! History and Geography however were simply divine! Not only were they exceedingly enjoyable, but incredibly insightful and have provided me with a lot skills which I can apply to my career too!

In all, my 3rd-4th year subject choices weren't too bad! I think I'd have liked to have studied Modern Studies as I do take a keen interest in politics now, however at the time I hated them and couldn't get my head around them! My Higher subject choices I find to be much more appealing though. The four subjects I opted for included: English, Drama, History and Geography. Please do not ask me why I hadn't taken Drama the years previous; I cannot provide you with a sure answer! Well, actually, I can - I wasn't keen on the teacher and she left me with a negative attitude towards studying the subject. However, my Higher Drama teacher was an utter delight! He had a wonderful Irish accent and people say he looks a little like David Tennant... I think we will leave that conversation there for now.

English I loved. We studied some wonderful texts and was both rewarding and enthralling. History too was incredibly fun and although it took me a little while to get my head around one of the subjects, it gave me the chance to study the years surrounding WWII in greater detail (this is something I'm greatly passionate about). Geography was insanely fun. I've no idea how I can enjoy reading about soil formations or expanding my knowledge on the formation of glaciers, but I can and I did!

I don't really think I'd have changed anything about my Higher choices. I'd stayed on to do my last year of school and had selected Psychology and Philosophy, and was going to resit Geography and History too, but decided that I'd simply had enough. Instead I went on to study Radio at college, a decision I made very much so on the spur of the moment but it certainly paid off!

With some of my earlier subjects aside, I'm quite pleased with the knowledge I've gained from my subject choices and feel that, with a few tweaks, they could have been perfect! I suppose a lot of the subject enjoyment does come from the class environment. During those few months I studied Psychology, I found it to be one of the most interesting things I'd ever looked at, but the class just wasn't right and it dampened my enjoyment incredibly.

If you've still subject decisions to make, do give it a lot of thought. Make sure it's something you'd enjoy learning about - don't just choose a subject because you like the teacher, or because your best friend is doing it too. Ensure you put 100% into your studies - it's true what they say when we're told that you get back what you put in! I must have put something into my education since it's now giving me the opportunity to go to University! Enjoy every moment - don't complain about homework; put your mind to it and you'll find that it can actually be quite enjoyable! To those who have just received exam results, I hope you've done as well as you've expected, and if not, don't panic. It's not the end of the road - there are ways around certain situations!

Your education is so precious, the foundations to the rest of your life. Treasure each and every second and give yourself some very happy memories to look back on. I did, and I wouldn't change it for the world.

Amy x

Young, Dumb & Living Off Mum Series 3

2011-08-15T02:18:00.001-07:00

(Video review: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=668OvsH5qBw )

For the past three years, Summer has brought great delight. This is not because of the sunny skies, nor is it because of the exciting fashions. No, the highlight of the warmest season is BBC3's Young, Dumb & Living Off Mum.

The first series back in 2009 allowed Robert Webb to introduce us to the almost 'Big Brother' like concept of a group of Young Dumbers living away from their pampered lifestyles and left to fend for themselves in one house. Not only do they have to cope with personality clashes, but they also need to learn to manage an allowance and undergo a variety of different tasks in the work place.

The new series has given us quite a mixed bag of personalities, which has indeed resulted in a few comedic moments. However, it's clear to see that there's one Young Dumber who is causing a tremendous stir and upsetting people on more than one occasion.

This series seems to have given us a few more people with level heads, those who know the error of their ways and seem to genuinely want to change them. However, will this pattern of positive thinking remain as the weeks progress?

On a personal note, Gracie and Enzo are firm favourites, however I've yet to etch this in stone since we're only one week in. I'm keen to see which other tasks are lined up for them, and cannot wait for more dramatic events to unfold! The first episode of this new series has proven delightful, but only time will tell if this is carried right across the series.

Amy x

Catch Young, Dumb & Living Off Mum every Sunday at 9pm, BBC3.

'Swagger Jagger' - Cher Lloyd

2011-08-14T03:44:00.001-07:00

(Video review: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i-ioFcNahho )

Never before have I seen a song that is good enough to reach the number one top stop in the UK charts receive so much hate...

Cher Lloyd caused an insane amount of controversy during her time on the X Factor last year, dividing the nation into 'haters' and 'supporters'. Some, like myself, were undecided about how they felt towards the young singer, however the release of her debut single, Swagger Jagger has left me feeling very positive about her.

Swagger Jagger delivers a message which has clearly been taken direct from Cher's experience, as she encourages her haters to move on and stop bothering her with negativity. She certainly receives more than her fair share of bad-mouth comments, and I'd be interested to find out just how many of those are jealousy-fuelled.

Despite all of this, Swagger Jagger has done exceptionally well as a debut single. The music video is full of fun and colour (and a Cheryl Cole clone - see image below), blending perfectly with the high energy beat of the song.

Lyrically, it's quite interesting. "You can't stop looking at me...tweetin' about me" - I've never before heard of an artist singing about Twitter, a concept which adds to the youth of Cher. "You're a hater, just let it go" is a simple but powerful message as she instructs the haters who are quick to share their poison views through the internet (but how many would actually say things to Cher's face?!). The only line I dislike is "Hi hater, kiss kiss I'll see you later...", as I feel it has an air of immaturity to it. The rest however I find to be quite clever and, indeed, catchy.

It took me a while to like it, but time paid off as I've now fallen in love with Swagger Jagger. It's definitely shown Cher's capabilities and is a song I don't think I'll tire of any time soon!

Amy x

At first glance it would appear that Cher had morphed into Cheryl Cole...

My Bucket List!

2011-08-07T07:36:00.001-07:00

‎"The more a spirit experiences during its physical lifetimes, then the more it grows and progresses" (Acorah 2006: xvii)

By this quote, I live my life. ♥

Back in 2008 I saw a movie that changed my life. After spending the best part of a year very ill with no real life, I decided that it was time to change that. Life is all about experience, and I aim to experience everything going. Below you will find my Bucket List - a list of everything I'd like to be able to say I've done throughout my life. Of course, there are a lot more things I'd like to do but below you'll find my main aims!

Career (as an Entertainment Reporter and TV Critic, with some connection to literature that I've yet to work out!)

Evening Chronicle competition win
Appear on Loose Women
Write for Woman's Own (or some involvement with the publication)
Appear on Blue Peter
Appear on magazine front cover
Attend awards event
Own column
Take part in TV game show/panel show
Radio appearance
Book release/s
Be part of Children in Need
Tour (road show?!)
Theatre involvement
DVD release (of any nature)
Signing event

People I'd Like to Acquaint (through career?) alphabetically:

John Barrowman
Helena Bonham Carter
Jackie Brambles
Beth Broderick
Simon Cowell
Ellie Crisell
Yvette Fielding
Noel Fielding
Rhod Gilbert
Melissa Joan Hart
Lorraine Kelly
Eve Myles
Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen
Billie Piper
Lucy Porter
Jacqueline Wilson

Places to Visit (in no order):

California
New York
Texas
Kentucky
France
Germany
Greece
Spain
Egypt
Manchester
Cardiff
Edinburgh (Mary King's Cross, Dungeons, Castle, Zoo, Writers' Museum)
Sweetharts (Sherman Oaks, California)
Salem, MA
Sabrina house (64 E.Main Street, NJ)
Stonehenge
London (Shakespeare Globe, BBC tour, zoo, V&A childhood museum, John Murray Publishing House)
Florida
Pendle Hill
Sheffield
Leeds
Bathgate
Birmingham
Legoland
Dublin
Stratford Upon Avon
Swindon
Blackpool (Ghost train!)

Random

Learn to ice skate
Attempt to play another instrument
Sip Guinness in Ireland (why not?!)

Future cat names (Seriously. I don't do kids, I do cats...)

Salem (jet black male)
Byron
Zellie (Z)
Eva
Acorah
Sladen

----
Acorah, D. 2006 Derek Acorah's Amazing Psychic Stories London: Harper Collins Publishers

Dreams of Torchwood: Battle of Nine V Ten

2011-08-06T00:29:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I’ve another dream to report to you this morning. As mentioned in my previous blog post, I do have a lot of Doctor Who and Torchwood dreams, and this one plays into that…

I sat on a train with a pile of tickets in my hand. Sitting backwards at the table there were two people in front of me, but nobody to the side. It became apparent that these two other people were my Torchwood companions. Yes, I was a member of Torchwood!

Shortly after the ticket inspector had come along, I noticed a metal creature approaching the train. It held the figure of a small dinosaur but once it reached the train doors, I could no longer see it. No commotion was created; it had arrived in peace.

I didn’t think anything more of it, until I felt something tugging at my legs. I hovered myself by using the table, resisting the creature’s strength as best as I could. Alerting my colleagues, action was quickly taken.

In charge of our group was a slightly round middle aged man (I imagine this is what Barrowman would look like if he abandoned the make-up and ate a couple of pies). Following his instructions, I sped along the train corridor, opening all of the doors to ensure passenger safety. It was then that we realised we had a bigger problem on our hands.

This had just become the battle of Nine V Ten. It turned out that the only reason the metal creature, now known as Ten, had come on board was to seek out its plastic enemy, Nine (think Autons V Cybermen!). As I made my way down the corridor with our unnamed leader following behind, Ten vanished out of sight. Instead, a long snake-like plastic arm slithered its way down behind us, chasing us and gaining speed.

Right at the very end of the corridor was a lift (yes, on a train…). Hammering on the button for the doors to open, we rushed inside and let the doors slam behind us. We were safe.

We were stuck in the lift for what felt like an eternity. Why weren’t we outside trying to do something about the creature invasion? Well, the answer to that is simply because we couldn’t! We’d somehow managed to get ourselves trapped inside the lift. We weren’t moving anywhere but the doors refused to open.

We had no idea what havoc was being created outside those doors – we couldn’t hear nor see anything. However, we had a new problem to deal with – our oxygen supply was quickly running low. Unable to leave the lift, it seemed as if our chances of survival were against us. Being Torchwood, we simply wanted to sort out the war that could have been unfolding mere metres away from us, but we were helpless. We couldn’t fight, and we couldn’t breathe…

I didn’t get a chance to see how this one unfolded, for I woke up in a state of panic and refused to go back to sleep. The dream was enthralling, action-packed and very exciting. However, once awake with the time to contemplate and replay the scenes, it seems so much more terrifying! This is also the second night in a row which I’ve dreamed about losing my life, both times with a TV-related, sci-fi twist. What does that mean?!

Amy x

Dreams of Mars, Marvel, Magic...Murder?

2011-08-05T02:45:00.001-07:00

As you may already know, dreams mean a lot to me. I love dreaming and no matter how scary they can be, I treasure each second. However, last night I had a dream that has left me tempted to eat my words...

I'd ended up on Mars. I'm not entirely sure how this happened, but there was a group of us led by the gorgeous Alex Kingston. (Doctor Who tends to spur sci-fi based dreams!) The others around me I didn't know, but in the dream realm it was apparent that I was aware of their names.

We were inside a standard apartment in a small block of flats - the entire surface of Mars it seems was just as populated as Earth is, and all with the human race. At least this was what I was to believe. This apartment was small (it actually remembered the flat I lived in this time last year!) with a small bedroom, a bathroom which I never entered, a living room and a kitchen.

A lot of the scenes took place in said kitchen, as we gazed out of the window. At times I felt like their wasn't a roof on this apartment, allowing us to see into the skies clearer. For up above there could be seen what resembled several Moons. Initially I thought we were on the Moon until I was informed that it was indeed Mars. Each of these 'Moons' turned out to be a different planet: Earth, Jupiter, Mercury and the rest, and one of them was in fact the Moon itself.

What made these planets stood out however was the fact that they were all a different neon colour. One was pink, another green, a different one blue and so on. This was quite peculiar to see, but very pretty. I'd taken my camera along with me and tried to take some video footage but they simply wouldn't show up for the camera, which was frustrating!

Out of the corner of my eye I noticed a pipe from the building across the road to the one we were standing in. Out of this pipe shot bright coloured, thick gases, emitting them directly up to the sky. Not knowing what this was, I began to panic.

Upon asking our 'expedition leader', I was told not to worry. This was when I began questioning the fact that we were able to breathe on Mars. It turns out we had little oxygen packs strapped to us being fed directly into us - these were barely bigger than the mobile phones of today and would only last so long. Time was running out.

For the next hour or so I was frantic, asking if it was time to leave yet and trying to get everybody closer to the main door so we could leave as quickly as possible. However, it seemed that I was the only one with this attitude - it was as if everybody else was in a trance, without a care in the world.

Finally somebody agreed to accompany me down to the bus station at the bottom of the building which would then lead us to our transport back home. He seemed friendly enough, I knew nothing more about him than I did the rest of the group, but I wasn't going to go alone and since 'Kingston' wouldn't get ready to go, this was my only option to try and remain calm.

However, I quickly became aware of the fact that I didn't trust this person. They made me feel uneasy, a feeling which had been underlying the entire time I spent in the apartment building. I felt so alone, so scared. It was then that I suddenly realised that there was a pretty good chance that these were not of the human race. With no recollection of how I actually got myself to Mars, I began to panic. Who were these people? Why was I here? And more importantly, would I make it back to Earth...alive?

After that dream, I genuinely awoke terrified. I'd actually searched the house afterwards to make sure I was alone! It took me a good fifteen minutes to shake back to reality and calm down, not jumping at every little movement! As much as it's put great fear into me, I'd love to know what it means! Well, for one thing, I'll never be going to Mars...! It's deeper meaning however I cannot be too sure about...

Amy x

Jedward's Loose Women interview...

2011-08-04T06:25:00.000-07:00

Despite my huge admiration for Loose Women, I do miss the occasional episode (or ten!). Only today did I finally get a chance to watch Jedward's interview on the show from back in May of this year (clip can be viewed here).

There are so many memorable Loose Women interviews, but there's something about this one which stands out incredibly. I've always liked Jedward and find them rather fascinating, and their appearance on the ITV show has simply trowelled this on further.

Some may see the twins as rowdy and rude, but this is not the case! They simply have a healthy supply of energy and like to share their enthusiasm with others. Nowadays there are far too many people who fail to see any positivity in life and focus purely on the factors which drag our country down. Jedward should be available on prescriptions; they're a sure cure for depression!

The boys have a wonderful relationship with those around them, fulfilling their questions with hearty responses and energising the atmosphere. They're a delight to watch and I'll feel privileged if ever I am fortunate enough to be around them. They even end up breaking the Loose Women panel into song - how many people have you seen do that before?!

Although they've done many other interviews, this one on Loose Women is especially refreshing and exciting, the passion clearly spilling out of them. If you only watch just the one Jedward interview, I strongly recommend this one - it's cheerful, it's colourful and it'll certainly brighten up your day!

Amy x

Hoover talk!

2011-08-02T06:02:00.000-07:00

Hoovering is not fun. Housework isn't too bad if you've got music playing loudly (my personal favourite is John Barrowman's rendition of Copacabana...), but annoyingly the hoover seems to enjoy drowning all happiness out. However, there's an exception...

Being on the latest shift at work a few days ago, one of my duties included hoovering the shop floor. I wasn't really bothered about this, but as soon as I saw I'd be handling Henry Hoover, I nearly died with excitement! I've always loved the concept of a hoover with a face but had never been blessed enough to actually play with one!

So off I went, cleaning up loose thread and small balls of stuffing fluff, all the while talking to Henry. It's a bizarre thing, speaking to a little face who masters in sucking. I even gave the little fella into trouble for whizzing off in the wrong direction when I gave him a little tug!

I've made it my mission in life to own a Hetty Hoover. As much as I love Henry, there's something so appealing about the luscious pink shade of Hetty. I also feel, given her feminine gender, that she may be a little bit more cooperative and helpful! I also plan on getting round to buying a mini Henry and a mini Hetty for the desktop - have you seen anything cuter?!

I did try talking to the duster cloth, but it ignored me. How rude! For now, I shall stick to socialising with those cleaning instruments who have the ability to brand a smile. After all, I wouldn't want to run the risk of seeming insane...

Amy x

What do I want from my career?

2011-07-31T08:31:00.000-07:00

I'm often asked what exactly it is about the world of TV and media I find fascinating. I don't buy into the whole 'famous for being famous' celebrity culture, but I love the high level of credit one can receive if they succeed in their own realms. David Tennant, for example, states that he is not a celebrity, just an actor doing his job. It's incredibly admirable and something I respect exceedingly. It's people like Tennant who make the industry so attractive, so rewarding, thus drawing me deeper into it. As well as this, I love the great level of opportunities that such a career could bring. Indeed, I do have my own selection of ambitions and goals I'd like to conquer along the way. I've managed to narrow them down to the top ten:

1. It'd be better than winning the X Factor...

Starting with the most practical idea chronologically, I shall address the Young Reviewers 2011/2012 competition I'm currently taking part in. The year long activity with the Evening Chronicle takes place right through to the New Year, and with the realisation that we're over half way through it, I'm beginning to become quite nervous! Regardless of the outcome, I'll have had an absolutely wonderful experience: I've seen so many amazing performances and indeed I've had my eyes opened to a few genres I wouldn't normally have explored. However, I'm not going to lie, I would like to win...! The frustrating thing though as that there's no telling how well we're doing against other contestants! Quality of writing does of course come into it, but one must also impress the lovely Entertainment Editor Gordon Barr (I'm absolutely not sucking up here in any way, shape or form...perhaps!) with enthusiasm and dedication. I'd love to think that the others taking part have neglected their roles, but somehow this would seem most unlikely! My fingers are tightly crossed that the outcome at the end is very positive and beneficial to my career...

2. Time to Tour!

The concept of touring is something I adore. I'm a born traveller and love exploring new places, meeting new people along the way. Touring opens these doors and many more. I'll be honest, I've not yet worked out how exactly I'd tour. A roadshow perhaps? I just know for sure that it is something in which I'd like to partake before I'm known only as a spirit orb!

3. Am I Loose enough?

I'd like to answer my own question there by telling you that yes, yes I am loose enough to involve myself with Loose Women (just don't go spreading that around!). After a bout of extreme low in my life, the show and its wonderful panellists managed to subconsciously lift me out of a serious Eating Disorder, giving me my higher most career goal to focus on. Just to be a guest on that show would allow me to scratch this option from me 'to do' list, however being a panellist, or indeed an anchor, would be the icing on my momentarily fairy bun sized career cake.

4. Cup of tea and a slice of column...

I remember when I was given my first computer for my tenth birthday, I'd spend hours writing little articles for my own pretend column. One I remember particularly well was a mini article about the possible extinction of pandas (complete with little Clipart cartoon panda!). I'd pay good money to work on my own column. Of course, it'd be entertainment media related, if I had my way, and would include a lot of researching and exploring! To receive credit where it'd be (hopefully!) due in such a way would be much appreciated! Yes, that'd be nice, thank you.

5. All for Charity!

Over the years I've done a lot of charity/activism work and this is something I still enjoy exceedingly. I'd donate a vital organ if it meant I'd be able to involve myself in one of the big charity events in some way. Children in Need is a personal favourite - I'd love to take part in the annual TV event! Any media-based charity event however would be incredibly appealing and would give me a great chance reboot my charity work! Will need to get my thinking cap on with this one!

6. What it must be like to be Blue Peter...

Imagine if your name was Peter, and your surname was Blue? That would look amazing on a passport! BBC's Blue Peter is the very reason my love for the media industry was born. At seven years of age I made the decision to become a TV Presenter, and twelve years later this is still a standing thought! The odds of becoming a TV presenter on there are not too great since they're not handed out like hot cakes or anything, but even just to guest appear on it would be magnificent! Plus, they have cute pets on the show...

7. Oh, Mr Cowell!

I cannot lie, I absolutely adore the ass off Simon Cowell. If you want to make it anywhere on TV as a presenter, you really need the backing of Simon Cowell (saying that, it didn't turn out too well for Kate Thornton who has now been axed from two major TV shows...). As much as I'd love it, my 'career goal' here is not actually to work for Cowell, but simply to acquaint him on a career level. Of course, I'd never say no for working for him, no matter what the contract said (I'm game for ANYTHING as far as Cowell is concerned!), but there are other realms waiting for me to explore first!

8. Love for the Time 'Team'...

I've a long list of people I'd love to work with, and putting Billie Piper aside for a moment, those at the top of the list are David Tennant and John Barrowman. I've been fortunate enough to acquaint Tennant briefly, one of the best days of my life I assure you, but I'd kill to be in a studio with him. John Barrowman, I've so many questions for. However, I'd let him ramble on all day just so I could listen to his voice, it's such a delight! To be around them at the same time would be heavenly, but as long as I get the chance to work with (or indeed, under...!) both of them at some point during my career, I'll be one very happy, close-to-fainting, unrequited infatuated-ridden bunny!

9. Such a dolly!

This one here may be a little bit bizarre, but I love the idea of having oneself turned into a small plastic doll! I used to be a huge collector of Doctor Who figures (and Spice Girls dolls once upon a time!) and find myself incredibly fascinated by the accuracy of the plastics' appearances. I'd love to have my own mini 'McLean' doll, if only to see how others interpret me! The same goes for an animation character - that'd be rather exciting! I've not quite worked out how this career goal will come about, but I'll try my best to find a way!

10. And we're live!
Thoughts of presenting live Television is something which terrifies the life out of me, but in all ways positive! I've presented the odd (some very odd!) live events, but only to a small audience. To present live Television with potentially millions of viewers would be insane! Shooting PTCs is one thing, where retakes are allowed if slip ups occur, but with live television there's no escaping your errors! Just to be able to say that I've broadcast a programme live would be a massive achievement.

There are so many things I'd like my career to offer me; this list is endless. Some of these may seem a little bit crazy, but such an adjective could be used to describe the foundations of my life! My career means more to me than anything, and I'll stop and no lengths to make it a success! I'll just need to ask you very kindly if you could send a lot of luck my way...?

Amy x

Dreams of 20th Century murder mysteries?

2011-07-29T02:25:00.000-07:00

I love dreaming. Unlike some, I do remember my dreams pretty much every night of the year and each one I always look for deeper meanings in. Last night's dream left we hungry to find out more...

Searching through a small collection of belongings which had been retrieved, somehow, from the early 20th Century, we came across a large brass coloured pocket watch. On the front of this watch, engraved in the most elegant writing, was the name: THOMAS. The long chain of the pocket watch was attached to a photo frame.

This photo frame had rusted with age, yet was still kind to the eye, enchanting almost. Rather than finding a family photograph inside, there was a letter. Written on yellow coloured paper that hadn't seemed to fade over the years was a note; a mother wrote to her son, to Thomas.

The words of this letter I cannot hear, but there was a certain air of sadness around it. It was apparent that this mother had murdered her child, a boy between the ages of seven and ten. Why or how it was not known.

Communication with the child had not been possible and we were no closer to the truth...

Without a doubt, it's one of the most enthralling dreams I've had in a long time. It has left me with a good handful of questions too. I'd oddly not opened up the pocket watch - could it still be ticking? What was the mother's name? Why would she want to harm her own son? I cannot be more specific with the date, no more than knowing it takes us back a Century or so. Tonight, I'll hopefully reveal a little more information, allowing me to find out exactly what happened.

Amy x

I'd dunk ANYTHING!

2011-07-27T04:27:00.000-07:00

People who don't dunk baffle me.

For as long as I can remember, I've been dunking. Hundreds of people do it. Yet, there are still those who frown upon it.

I am of course referring to the delightfully enthralling process of dunking biscuits into a cup of steaming hot tea. It seems that some biscuits were designed for this, but there's nothing more exciting than selecting a new option and emerging it into the liquid, eagerly awaiting the results.

Chocolate covered biscuits can be troublesome. If the chocolate melts too much it'll end up being smeared around the edges of the cup, causing nightmares when it comes to washing up. However, if the chocolate takes too long to melt, the biscuit part is likely to become too soggy, like mush!

Biscuits with sticky centres tend to remain crumbly and uncooperative once in the cup. Biting in to them creates incredible shock - one seeks to find a soft and delectable treat but instead finds that they're now covered in wet crumbs.

Digestive biscuits absorb the full effect, bringing an exciting caffeine-fuelled flavour to its soft texture. However, nothing will ever beat the basic rich tea biscuit. It's smooth surface becomes shiny and luscious. A quick dunk provides a soft suck on the slightly moist base, whereas as slightly more lengthy dunk creates a heavenly experience not to be messed with.

Those who are repulsed by the idea of dunking are missing out on an entire enchanting sugary world of fun!

Amy x

"Morning's here, the morning's here...

2011-07-26T00:15:00.000-07:00

...sunshine is here, the sky is clear, the morning's here!" - Joey Tribbiani and 'morning guy', FRIENDS.

I believe this is the earliest blog post I've ever done. At 8:20am, I've been up for an hour but my eyes still feel glued shut. A cup of tea later and an orange flavoured Dextro energy tablet and I feel no different.

I've always been a night-time person; my best work is done in the evenings and early hours (so if this turns out to be abysmal you can blame the sunshine). Mornings are too bright, too many people are alert and the days are too long!

I once had to leave the house at around 5am to go on holiday - this was bliss! It was still pitch black during the Autumn month and there wasn't a single person around. Excitement had left me with little sleep, yet still the moonlight filled me with floods of energy. Perfection.

The morning is filled with rush - I don't really have the time to be writing this as the day is calling for my attention, but I was so angry with the morning hours that I simply had to badmouth it online. I shall bid you all a morning time farewell, and see you when the stars come out to play!

Amy x

365 Day Challenge & FoundOnFilm

2011-07-25T02:04:00.000-07:00

It's today! It's today! It's today!

Yes, just as I promised I'm about to embark upon a blogging challenge, which will last exactly one year, three hundred and sixty five days if you will. Now don't get me wrong, I absolutely adore my blog, it's just that I do occasionally forget to nurture it. To help keep me motivated, I've given myself this little adventure in order to give me something to reach for. I'm allowing to miss 10% of the post count, you can hear more about this in my video here.

For my first topic within this challenge, I'd like to draw your attention to a fellow YouTuber: FoundOnFilm.

There are lots of wonderful people on YouTube who post exciting videos and FoundOnFilm is the latest to come my way. The star of the videos posted on said channel is the lovely Sarah. In each video she talks to her viewers with consideration and equality, sharing her views about the latest beauty products.

The occasional haul video will give us an insight into her warm personality; the content she delivers is always enthralling, captivating. What makes Sarah stand out from the rest is her originality and down-to-earth attitude. There's a growing trend on YouTube for beauty gurus to clone themselves on the 'bigger' posters, however this isn't evident in this case in the slightest.

Each video will fill your day with fun and energy as Sarah addresses you not as a crowd, but as an individual. With over two million video view hits and over five thousand subscribers, it's clear to see that FoundOnFilm is a rising success.

Click here to visit Sarah's YouTube channel, FoundOnFilm.

Amy x

Britain's Got Talent LIVE 2011 (Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle UK)

2011-06-14T05:56:00.000-07:00

Article on Evening Chronicle website:
http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/entertainment-in-newcastle/theatre/2011/06/13/preview-britain-s-got-talent-tour-opens-in-newcastle-72703-28868474/

You've seen the auditions and chosen your favourites. You’ve watched the finals and voted like crazy. Now you could be part of the action!

Yes, that’s right. The Britain’s Got Talent LIVE 2011 tour has begun!

The 10 finalists from this year’s show have put together an incredible evening of top quality performances which will blow you away.

Each act was presented to us by none other than Britain’s Got More Talent’s Stephen Mulhern, a fine talent himself who provided highly entertaining links between each section, adding the occasional interview with the performers.

Boy band New Bounce kicked things off for us with their intense, high-energy performance, matching expectations with ease – something which the rest of the acts managed too.

Steven Hall received an exceptionally positive reaction from the packed audience. His charmingly hilarious dance routine was as successful as ever even with no supporting dancers.

Razy Gogonea was met with a similarly enthusiastic reaction as he performed his impossibly perfect dance routine.

There were deafening screams of support from the crowd when the two youngest performers, 11-year-old dancer James Hobley and 12-year-old singer Ronan Parke, came on stage.

Lively keyboard player Jean Martyn and impressionist Les Gibson provided delightful vibes while singer Michael Collings and pianist Paul Gbegbaje were on form too.

Headlining the show was the winner of this year’s series, Jai McDowall. The floor shook, the goose bumps took hold and jaws hung loosely open as his sensationally powerful voice filled the room. Captivating, mesmerising.

It was clear to see that there was a great level of passion not only in our winner’s performance, but throughout the entire show.

Each act was displayed so professionally, threaded beautifully with dedication and commitment. Without a doubt, each and every finalist could develop very successful careers with their talents.

The special effects were minimal but effective, including fog machines and light displays. No complicated set designs were needed and there were no frills or ornaments.

Hats off to the crew for organising the show so well. Each section ran smoothly without any hiccups or delays. During the interval, the audience was entertained with a screen displaying clips from previous years’ auditions.

By the end of the evening, the entire crowd was on their feet, cheering on not only their favourite acts but also showing their support for the other outstanding performers.

It comes in many shapes and forms, sometimes bizarre and often surprising, but you just need to see this enchanting evening of entertainment to see that Britain really has Got Talent

Why I have to sell all my Sabrina things, for my health...

2011-05-23T11:52:00.000-07:00

It kills me to write this post, but it must be done...

Everybody who knows me will quickly assure you that I've spent the last three years at least dedicated to Sabrina the Teenage Witch. It's been with me for twelve years now, and has helped me through all the bad times. It pulled me out of depression and saved me from sliding back into another bout of Anorexia. However, not all is too grand...

Actually, 'grand' is the key word there. Over the last few years I've easily spent £5,000+ on Sabrina merchandise. Now this is money I couldn't really afford, and certainly shouldn't have been spending on merchandise. Each sentence I utter is influenced by the show, and each thought can be connected too.

It has taken me a long time to realise this, but Sabrina has taken over my life. I cannot go two minutes without thinking about the show, writing about it, tweeting about it. Every penny that comes my way is spent on the show, and this would too be the case for the rest of my life.

After spending the last four or so hours crying, I've come to the decision that this must end now. Please do not think for a second that Sabrina is out of my life - besides, the logo is tattood to my arm! I'm simply distancing myself from the material items. After all, it's what's in the heart that counts, not what's in your hand.

Sabrina will always hold the biggest place in my heart, as will the cast and crew. Except now I will be able to control spending a (hopefully!) more normal life. Sabrina, I love you forever, but your physical items have broke me, physically, mentally, emotionally and financially. It's time to keep this between our 'harts'.

My love. x

MTV Geordie Shore

2011-05-12T09:45:00.000-07:00

This video corresponds with the following video:

Please visit http://www.mtv.co.uk/shows/geordie-shore for more!

- MTV Geordie Shore Interviews -

Vicky:

Geordie Shore - MTV UK

Jay:

Geordie Shore - MTV UK

Charlotte:

Geordie Shore - MTV UK

Stay tuned for more information!

Thanks
Amy x

Olly Murs (City Hall, Newcastle UK)

2011-05-08T07:44:00.000-07:00

Article online:
http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/entertainment-in-newcastle/music/2011/05/03/review-olly-murs-at-newcastle-city-hall-72703-28626379/

Video review:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2iAEu41M4R4

LESS than 18 months ago he came second place in the nation's largest talent competition.

Now, Olly Murs is taking the charm he displayed on the X Factor around the country with his self-titled tour.

His stop at the City Hall saw a giant crowd of screaming fans displaying an array of banners and personalised garments showing their love and support for the young star.

Olly performed songs from his hit album, including his debut single, Please Don’t Let Me Go, which is loved just as much now as it was when it rocketed straight to number one in the charts.

He also gave his own take on a selection of covers he holds close to his heart. Each song was accompanied by an assortment of lively dance routines, with Olly’s signature moves woven throughout.

Not only in between songs, but also during numbers, Olly dished out a fair helping of interaction with the audience, involving everybody in the room. Very much in his element, it was clear to see that Olly was having the time of his life, his energy and passion reflecting right across the room.

Credit is also due to the supporting acts: all-male band The Kixx, and Irish girl group Wonderland. Both fuelled the audience, throwing them on to their feet in preparation for Olly’s entrance. Surrounding the staircase centre stage could be found Olly’s nine-piece accompaniment: drums, bass, guitar, brass and energetic backing vocals. The rapport he showed with those he toured with was encouraging and made it feel even more relaxed and welcoming.

At the top of the set was a large screen, on which appropriate images were displayed to match each song.

From image slide shows to mesmerising starry skies, they provided extra padding to the performances, which although not necessary turned out to be a nice touch. The spotlighting allowed Olly to glow, while the brightly-coloured light beams sucked the audience in even further.

Whether you’ve supported Olly Murs since his X Factor audition back in 2009, or you’re a new fan just discovering his music, this was a great way to see him truly work his magic.

Interview with Jade Sharif

2011-05-07T11:38:00.001-07:00

I was recently fortunate enough to interview EastEnders actress Jade Sharif, who played young Rebecca Fowler in the popular BBC soap. Check it out...

You were such a young age when joining the cast of the show - did you realise at the time how popular EastEnders is?
I didn't realise how popular it was, no.

Were there any particular cast members you were close to? Any you still keep in touch with?
I was close to all of them! I still keep in touch with a few, like Natalie (Cassidy, Sonia) and James (Alexandrou, Martin).

Did you have any particular method you used when learning the scripts?
I just read the script a few times on the way there so I remembered the lines.

Would you ever like to return to the Square some day?
Yeah I would love to return!

What sort of TV shows do you like to watch? Are there any particular you'd like to star in?
Yeah I would like to do any films or soaps that are available - that would be cool! I miss acting so much.

Thanks!
Amy x

Interview with Ray Garton

2011-05-05T05:38:00.000-07:00

Video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H6t_Wql1ysE/

A little Q+A with author Ray Garton...

When did you first decide you wanted to become a writer?
I've been writing my whole life. Before I could write, I drew stories in panels, like in a comic book. Then, once I learned to write, I wrote constantly. By the time I was eight years old, I knew I had to be a writer. It was the only thing at which I had any real confidence, and I loved doing it so much that I couldn't image not being able to do it all the time.

Which books did you enjoy reading during your childhood?
Among my favorites were L. Frank Baum's The Wizard of Oz, the works of Paul Zindel (like Pardon Me, You're Stepping On My Eyeball), anything by Richard Matheson (I Am Legend, The Incredible Shrinking Man, Hell House) and Edgar Rice Burroughs (Tarzan, John Carter of Mars). I read a lot of science fiction and horror, some fantasy, lots of thrillers -- Ian Fleming's James Bond books, Robert Ludlum's spy novels, Mary Higgins Clark, Dean Koontz. I've always loved the work of Charles Dickens, I'm sure I'm neglecting to mention some other favorites. It's hard to narrow it down because I read constantly when I was a kid. I read everything I could get my hands on.

Do you have an 'all time' favourite book?
I don't. Again, it's hard to narrow it down when there are so many books I love, so many books that have such a big influence on me. Among my favorites, in no particular order, are Catch-22, The Shining, A Confederacy of Dunces, Bleak House, Ghost Story, The Haunting of Hill House, The World According to Garp, Dune, Picture of Dorian Gray -- I could go on and on. But I can never seem to pick an all-time favorite.

Where do you get your inspiration from for your own books?
I've never really had to look for it. It comes to me. It floats around in the air. I've always got more ideas for books and stories than I could possibly write. At this piont, I've written over 60 books -- I think I'm at 63, but I haven't counted in a while, so I'm not certain -- but if I had the time to put to the page every idea I had for a book in that amount of time, that number would skyrocket. The trick is picking the best ones and then focusing on those, one idea at a time. I hope this doesn't sound boastful because I don't mean it to. I don't think inspiration is any talent of mine, or any writer's. It's everywhere we look, everything that happens to us, conversations we overhear in a shopping mall, something we see on the news -- it's endless.

Out of all the books you've written, which one would you recommend to somebody who has yet to discover your work?
My personal favorite of all my books is Sex and Violence in Hollywood. Most of what I've written has been in the horror genre, but this book is kind of a comedy thriller. It's hard to categorize, which is why I had such a hard time selling it back in 2000. Publishers want to be able to market books, and if they can't put a label on it -- mystery, science fiction, thriller, romance, horror -- they don't know how to market it. was that kind of book. It resists a label. It's been optioned by a producer who is now trying to adapt it into a TV miniseries for cable. Fingers crossed.

You've written novellas for various TV series' tie-ins - did you watch Sabrina the Teenage Witch before contributing to the series?
I had watched the show once or twice and enjoyed it, but I didn't become a regular viewer until I started writing the tie-in novels. When I agreed to write my first Sabrina book, I was sent several video tapes and I caught up on all the episodes I'd missed. After that, I watched the show regularly.

Are you working on anything at the moment?
I'm always working on something. My new novel Meds, a thriller, is about to be published by E-Reads as a paperback and ebook. I'm starting work on a new novella that's going to be published by Cemetery Dance Publications (it doesn't have a title yet, but it's in the horror genre). I'm putting the finishing touches on my first nonfiction book, The United States of Jesus, which is about the efforts of Christians to transform the United States from a secular nation and an open society into a Christian theocracy (they've already had a good deal of success), and I've got a couple of novels kicking around in my head that I'm dying to write once my schedule loosens up a little.

What advice would you give to those working towards a career in writing?
When it comes to writing, there are two different kinds of people. There are those who love the idea of writing but simply don't have the patience or dedication to get through all the rejection they will face once they try to get serious about it -- and most won't even get serious about it. No amount of encouragement will help them become writers. Then there are those who must write. They can't help themselves. They write in their spare time, and when they're not writing, they think about writing. It's a need for them, and they will continue to do it no matter what. No amount of discouragement will ever sway them or slow them down. If you have an interest in writing, find out which of those two you are.

What are your favourite TV shows? Any particular you'd like to write a tie-in story for?
At the moment, I have a few favorites. I'm hooked on Fringe. I think Showtime's Californication and Weeds are brilliant and have some of the best writing I've ever seen on television. The Big Bang Theory, South Park and Family Guy never fail to make me laugh. I wish tie-in books were still in vogue. They've fallen out of popularity and aren't nearly as common as they used to be. I would love to write tie-ins for any of those shows.

Before we go, is there anything you'd like to add?
E-Reads is currently in the process of releasing my entire back list. All of the books are available as paperbacks or as ebooks for Kindle, Nook and a variety of ebook formats. To see what's been released so far and keep up with new releases, you can visit my page at the E-Reads website:
http://ereads.com/ecms/authorname/Ray-Garton/

Thanks!
Amy x

In Memory of Elisabeth Sladen

2011-04-21T13:17:00.000-07:00

Two days ago, on April 19th, Doctor Who fans everywhere were hit with the sad news of the passing of Elisabeth Sladen.

Sladen portrayed the Doctor's companion, Sarah Jane Smith, in many episodes and indeed went on to having her own successful CBBC show, 'Sarah Jane Adventures'. Very few knew that she was unwell, including myself, so the news certainly came as quite a shock. There have been many celebrity deaths over the last few years, and while it's always a sad thing to hear, I've never been affected by any as much as I have been this one.

Even as I write this, my eyes are welling up. At various intervals throughout the day, Sladen will pop into my thoughts and I'll have to fight back the tears. Series 2 of Doctor Who means the world to me, and Sladen played very much a central part in it all. She was a gorgeous woman, with amazing talent and a warm existence.

I sit and think about the small collection of autographs I have from Sladen herself. Something of a rarity now. It doesn't feel right, not at all. I feel so blessed to have had her acknowledge my presence, if even for a second as she scribbled my name down and popped the signed photograph into the little self-addressed envelope. Whenever I look at them, a tear will be brought to my eye as I think of what a sad loss has just occurred.

Everybody who knew Sladen said that she had a kind hear; nobody has a negative word to utter about her. My thoughts are with her family, friends and fans as they try to get through this difficult time. The new series of Doctor Who begins this Saturday, and I am sure many fans will be like myself, struggling to focus on the show, only thinking of Sladen. It's a tragic loss, unexpected and unjust. I'm sure Elisabeth has her very own TARDIS in the skies, so her adventures with Sarah Jane can continue. A wonderful woman. Never, ever forgotten.

Amy x

Let the Weight Loss begin...!

2011-04-13T11:17:00.001-07:00

As I begin my weight loss journey tomorrow, I thought it would be appropriate to make you aware of my aims for this challenge. Let it be said that I am the Queen of fad diets. I've tried countless remedies and 'methods' to try and lose weight, and on some occasions I've been quite successful...

However, sadly, my weight yo-yos. I can fall down to underweight, and shoot back up again in a matter of weeks. It's outrageous, I know! This time, I plan to keep to my word and reach my target weight goal!

Okay so perhaps I'm cheating slightly by not informing you of my current weight, but it's simply embarrassing! With my current weight logged, I can now confirm that I have 5st 10lb to lose to get to my goal. I'll mention each week, every Thursday, how much I've lost and once I reach my goal I'll reveal how much I weighed at the beginning (ie right now) - I'll be filled with pride and achievement so I won't care about the reflection then!

I'm trying something that I've never actually tried before - I've bought a specific garment to aim to fit into. Below you will see a picture of the specific pair of jeans I've designated as my 'goal garment'. These are a pair of Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen girls' age 10 jeans, which have a 24 inch waist.

Right now, I can only dream of squeezing myself into them, but I know that if I stick to it, it'll happen! I just need to keep in the right frame of mind! So I shall leave you here for now; all well-wishes would be warmly welcomed! From now, it's onwards and downwards to that special goal number. I'll update you each Thursday on how the previous weeks have been, but for now...

Amy x

Dreaming of Time Travel

2011-04-10T02:59:00.000-07:00

Time Travel is something many of us desire. Some believe it will never be possible, while others believe that it is, coincidentally, all a matter of time. Perhaps the next best thing to traveling back in time is dreaming of traveling back in time. Last night, I was able to delve into such delights.

To help set the scene for you, I'll be honest when I say the dream started out slightly scary! In my old school lab, an insane Biology teacher locks all the pupils in and turns on the gas. A recipe for disaster? Sure. What was bizarre though was how I was outside the building one minute, and then inside it the next, trying to save Holby City character Jac Naylor (Rosie Marcel) from the dangers.

Well my fighting attempts to help her didn't make a difference, and she turned into a plastic doll fighting for its life. Confused? Me too, don't worry. Well I managed to drag her out of the building and started heading along a street to a house which I assume belonged to said doll. Distraught and filled with panick, I wished I could turn back time and prevent everything from happening...

Next thing I know, the doll plays a very minor, almost non-existent role in the dream as I suddely find myself as Sabrina (the Teenage Witch, of course), all the power at the tip of my index finger, sending myself back to the 1950s...

I have to admit, exploring a little '50s high street was quite enjoyable and most educational (however, I do have to question how accurate the dream was...!). Trouble soon arose when the contents of my modern bag became visible (iPhone, purse etc), and my friend and I had to make a break for it. Now I've no who the person was I was with, but apparently we were best friends. With my finger at the ready, I transported us to the 1980s.

This is where the best part comes in. Before we explored the '80s high street, browsing shelve after shelve of classic Doctor Who delights and visiting hair salons, we visited the Spellman household. At this point, I (as Sabrina) would not have existed as far as the TV show is concerned, so Aunt Zelda and Aunt Hilda didn't actually know who I was. It was great fun telling them to keep hold of certain objects which would later appear in the TV series, informing them of certain garments they would suit (again, those worn by the actors in the show). It was very vivid, and so surreal to see my mind create these characters before they were shown to the nation. And yes, Broderick and Rhea owned the roles of the 'Aunties' here!

We had another problem in the '80s, again related to our secret time traveling becoming revealed, so we had to head back to our own time. However, as I sent us back, I woke up...

I actually tried insanely hard to get back to sleep - that was quite frankly the best dream I've had! As I said, I doubt the information my dream was feeding me with was overly accurate, at least as far as the '50s scenes are concerned, but it was a delight nonetheless. I've no idea what happened to that 'Naylor doll', but I think it's best if I try and forget that rather sinister part!

I do actually believe that there are Time Lords out there, but of course we all know that our little human brains are uncapable of coping with such explosive information! One day, I do hope time travel is possible. Until then however, I'm more than content to settle for Dream Traveling!

Amy x

"Oh, it's such a perfect day"...with CARSTAKI!

2011-04-04T07:58:00.000-07:00

*WARNING: contains explicit language!*

As a nation, we're too quick to complain about our lives, rarely taking the time to stop and truly enjoy the delights that come our way. I couldn't possibly have imaged that anything would come even close to 13th August 2010 - the date I crowned as the most perfect day of my life. However, just over a week ago, on the 26th March 2011, perfection struck again.

"Hey, Blondie!"
They knew I'd be there. I'd been sending and tagging Costaki Economopoulos in Facebook messages from, quite frankly, the very moment I knew they were coming back to Scotland. Now living in the North East of England, it was a bit more of a trek to get up to Glasgow, but I wasn't going to let anything stop me.

After a day of traveling, I was filled with excitement bubbles, each one awaiting its time to pop. No earlier than forty minutes before 'showtime', I was stood outside the King's Theatre waiting to go and, and guess who walked across the road...?

That's right, Costaki! Now I must point out at this moment that Caroline Rhea was right by his side, yet for some reason I simply cannot find an excuse for, I didn't even register that my Aunt Hilda was a mere few feet away from me. Granted, Caroline didn't aknowledge my presence immedialely either!

It's such a warm feeling to know that somebody you care about knows who you are. Before I could even open my mouth, Costaki was walking up to me with greetings (and this time, I made sure I knew where my hand was - for his sake, of course!). Caroline sauntered on talking to who I assumed to be stage manager, before Costaki called out to her and neon signed my stance. For a moment I forgot to breathe as she realised who I was. It's the most surreal feeling in the world, yet it feels completely natural. It's so bizarre, so wonderful.

It's Showtime!
As normal, Costaki warmed up the crowd for Ms Rhea, and I was overjoyed when at long last he shared with the audience his thoughts on how to prevent cat allergies (and by at long last I refer to the time between the one other time I've seen him and then!). Well that floored me, as I knew it would, but I had to scrape myself up and try to prevent self-destruction throughout the rest of his half hour set.

Now even though Costaki didn't dip into his 'Mia Hamm' joke - my current favourite - I couldn't care. He alone was perfect; I'd pay darn good money to see him on his own, regardless of whether Caroline was there or not! However, when it was time to Caroline to grace the stage with her presence I knew the night wouldn't ever be the same without her.

She's so gorgeous, isn't she? Both inside and out, Caroline glows. I'd not noticed outside the theatre, but once she was on stage it struck me instantly how much weight Caroline has seemed to have lost. I'm very over protective when it comes to those who are important to me, and having not brought the subject up with her, I can only hope that she is safe and well when such an issue is addressed.

Once passed that brief moment, studying her loveliness draped in black with a styled messy updo, it was time to try and contain myself. However, if you have ever seen even a small clip of Caroline's stand up performances, you'll know that this is easier said than done.

Caroline's set had a few main focuses: the first of these was quite simply 'Scotland'. This was similar when I saw her in Edinburgh, however it was taken to a much greater extent in Glasgow. Never did I expect to hear sweet Auntie Hildy exclaim "Ride me like a donkey!" in her best Scottish accent.

A lot of what she said was heavily sex-based, and a lot of that focusing on her own sex life. In fairness, Costaki did bring her G Spot up during his turn prior, so it was only fair! They both seemed to bring up pirates into conversation too, more sexually based during Caroline's term - had I not seen pirate costumes in the window of Ann Summers the following day, I'd not have cared!

A lot of Caroline's routine was filled with fresh and audience-inspired material, however there were a few personal favourites in there too. New watchers were introduced to little Ava's Hello Kitty 'pink cock' and her 'fuck cock', as well as her Russian Gymnastics Coach personality. Caroline must have stood on stage for a day shouting "Mommy...! AGAIN! AGAIN! AGAIN!", leaving the audience gasping for breath.

Half an hour after she was about to tell a certain story - Caroline gets sidetracked easily! - I smiled the most I had in what feels like a lifetime. If anybody asks me what my favourite 'CeeRhea' (as her streetname goes, christened by Gabrielle and I) joke is, I'll always without a doubt answer with "cunt face".

Now don't worry, I'm not abrupt; I don't make a habit of insulting others! However, those two words make me laugh more than anything in this world. Caroline's Sound of Music joke is to die for, and she didn't share it in Edinburgh so I hoped incredibly that Glasgow would be the night. Indeed, it was, and she even added in the Mary Poppins piece, which I'd heard only once before.

Of course, there were a few Sabrina stories weaved throughout the set. All were delightful, but it was an accidental slip up which brought the most hilarity. Whilst in the middle of a tale, Caroline came out with "Sabrina the Teenage Jacket". Well, I'm sure Melissa has never been refered to as an outdoor garment before! I'll never forget that, and I shan't be letting Caroline forget it either!

Countdown Theme...
It's quite typical really. In Edinburgh, Laura and I didn't have long with the 'Two Cs' as we had to dash for the last train. In Glasgow, I didn't have long with Caroline because she had to rush off to another show. Plus, there was a large crowd there to see her so I did the right thing and let them all go first. After all, how many of them would be prepared to travel across the water to see Caroline at a later, undecided date (that's me sucking up, that is!)?!

I'll be honest, even though I only had about ten minutes of time with Caroline, those ten minutes were the most wonderful minutes of my life. It's hard to describe the sensational aura she gives off, and it has nothing to do with her being stuck on a plane for hours beforehand!

I do hope to some day spend some proper time with Caroline, and Costaki too, but until then I am going to treasure every second I've spent with them. That Saturday will remain the most perfect day of my life for a very long time; it will take an awful lot to top it. Until then next time I acquaint the King and Queen of Comedy, I shall leave you with one question...

What is it you can't face?

Amy x

Click here for video post!

Calendar Girls (Sunderland Empire, Sunderland UK)

2011-03-24T04:59:00.000-07:00

http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/

Video review:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vs-20rECiOg

I can’t even begin to imagine the emotional struggle one is faced with when they, or their loved ones, are battling with a horrific, life-threatening disease. Each day, more and more people are affected by the heartache it brings. Often it may seem like there is no end, no cure, no way out. However, there are many who are determined to not give up, trying to put a stop to diseases such as Leukaemia, and a prime example of this comes in the form of the Calendar Girls.

Calendar Girls tells the true story of a group of women who set about putting together a calendar: nude images, poses carefully arranged with props, to help raise money and awareness for the fight against blood cancers. After a successful run in London’s West End, the Tim Firth production is now embarking upon a tour across the UK.

While the story is based on an unfortunate event, you will find that it is woven throughout with tasteful humour. This helps capture the spirit which many sufferers often hang on, living each day with as much love and joy as possible. A lot of the hilarity comes from unexpected lines and outrageous tones, however you will also
find a few entertaining surprises along the way thanks to the (lack of) costumes!

Of course, there are the more serious scenes throughout, making sure we do not forget what the calendar, and the production, is really about. You can guarantee that on several occasions you will reach for your tissues to dab away at the tears.
The cast is marvellous; everybody is exceptional but there are a few performances in particular which stand out.: Lynda Bellingham gave an outstanding performance as Chris, a caring and supportive woman who has an incredible level of determination. The most beautiful voice filled the room as Bernie Nolan sang at appropriate moments throughout the evening, adding her own style to the character of Cora. Lisa Riley gave us a lovable character with Ruth, a sweet woman who always tries to do the right thing whilst adding an enormous amount of entertainment.

Calendar Girls is a massively moving production.

'Boyzone: Brother' tour (Metro Radio Arena, Newcastle UK)

2011-03-22T07:42:00.000-07:00

http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/entertainment-in-newcastle/music/2011/03/02/boyzone-thrill-crowds-at-metro-radio-arena-72703-28263132/

Video review:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H07raT4puGM

TAKE four strapping Irish alpha males, add a dollop of talent and a supersized portion of passion.

What do you get? Why, Boyzone, of course!

However, there is one important ingredient missing.

When the tragic news regarding the late Stephen ‘Steo’ Gately was announced in October 2009, fans and supporters of the singer and the group were shocked, to say the least.

Now, Keith Duffy, Mikey Graham, Ronan Keating and Shane Lynch are taking their Brother tour around the country, keeping the memory of their friend alive.

After a wonderful warm-up from Irish girl group Wonderland, the four boys take their much-deserved time to shine in front of the enthusiastic audience with their high energy and delightful presence.

As they grace across the stage, you can enjoy the occasional input from the female dancers who accompany them several times throughout. While some may only have eyes for their ‘one true love’ in the group, the dancers do give the set a bit more colour and intensity.

We’re given a delightful selection of songs to take us on a beautifully nostalgic trip back to the ’90s, as they proudly share with us hits such as No Matter What.

We’re also introduced to some new songs which can be found on their latest album, also titled Brother, which was released as a tribute to Gately.

One can feel the great level of love and emotion which has been woven right through those songs, a tearful yet sensational way to commemorate somebody greatly loved.

Across the several hours, you will discover all sorts of your own emotions being pulled out of you, each one providing a unique, but equally sensational, experience of their own.

The four may have their own solo projects on the go, but it is clear to see the dedication and true commitment they hold for the group.

Their eyes remain glistening throughout as they reminisce over past memories, enlightening us with their fond tales.

The strength in their vocals is, as one could expect, breathtaking, and their energetic travelling around the stage is exceedingly uplifting.

Whether you are already an avid follower of Boyzone or you have yet to discover the utter perfection they bring to their performances, their 2011 Brother tour is one which you simply cannot miss!

Comedy of Errors (Theatre Royal, Newcastle UK)

2011-03-22T07:28:00.000-07:00

http://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/entertainment-in-newcastle/theatre/2011/02/02/review-comedy-of-errors-theatre-royal-72703-28099977/

Video review:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=umfbtnO9mW4

NINE men, all dressed in loosely fitted, brightly coloured shirts, their looks topped off with large sombreros, whilst they play an assortment of instruments; it's not an image one would usually conjure when considering the works of Shakespeare. Nevertheless, the scene laid the foundations beautifully for the rest of the two hour comedy which followed.

Comedy of Errors tells the tale of two sets of identical twins, whom were all separated at birth: Antipholus of Syracuse (Dugald Bruce- Lockhart) and Antipholus of Ephesus (Sam Swainsbury), along with their servants Dromio of Syracuse (Richard Frame) and Dromio of Ephesus (Jon Trenchard). Now all staying in the same city of Syracuse some years later, they unknowingly find themselves being subject to mistaken identity by those who should know them well, thus resulting in some rather unfortunate, and indeed hilarious, incidents.

The all-male production uses slapstick comedy to play on the humour of the audience, with many witty surprises along the way. Weaved in between the poetic script are some truly wonderful one-liners which will urge you to roar with laughter. Your cheeks will be left aching from the plentiful puns and occasional innuendos which build on the comedy.

A great deal of the entertainment comes from the extravagance of the actors, their talents shining brightly.

With a plot so rich with excitement, the audience is kept engaged all the way through, with many unexpected happenings.

North East's Young Reviewers 2011 Introduction

2011-01-24T09:10:00.000-08:00

Every year the 'Evening Chronicle' runs a competition for budding young writers in the North East area, and this year I entered. I'm fortunate enough to have made it to the final group, and in today's issue of the newspaper a small article was printed introducing its readers to this years contestants. Please find below images from the Evening Chronicle website, and a snap of the publication.

It's a 12-month competition, so it will run until the end of the year. Now for those of you who have been asking, I'm not actually aware of what the prize for the winner is, but at this stage it's not important. This is going to be a great experience and definitely a help for my career path!

I shall inform those of you who are interested as and when my articles are published in the newspaper. As it stands, I am unaware of which areas of the Arts I am to cover, but as soon as I know I shall let you know!

Until next time.

Amy x

David Tennant - engaged and expecting baby!

2011-01-15T05:59:00.001-08:00

I'm trying so hard to be pleased for the happy couple, honest!

When I heard a few weeks back that David Tennant and Georgia Moffett recently became engaged, I was devastated. Sure, I want him to be happy, but Tennant has been my Doctor for over five years. He stole my heart and squished it into pulp, before leaving it to frazzle in the heat he provides.

Yet I never held that against him, and my heart still longed for that very man. His smile, so warm, his eyes so deep and loving. I refused to be a 'fan girl'; no posters were put up, never did I sprawl 'I <3 David Tennant' over anything, and no photos of him were carried in my purse (well, just the one!). Unrequited love, it's painful!

A mere five minutes ago, the news was broken to me that Moffett is in fact expecting her second child, Tennant's first. Well, I'm thrilled for Tennant. I really am. That child is going to be the finest specimen ever known, it's guaranteed. I'm just...well, I'm raging with envy!

Would I trade places with Moffett? Sure, why not? But I don't want her life, not really. I want my life, and my life is incomplete without Tennant. In my heart and in my head, he'll always remain. I hope life throws a continuous amout of joy towards the happy couple, but no matter what happens, Tennant will always be 'mine'.

Amy x

(On a less insanity-driven note, congrats to the two! I hope everything works out perfectly!)

♥ Stars and Stripes! ♥

2011-01-11T05:45:00.000-08:00

For the first time in my life, I have actually made a decision!

Yes, really! It has come to that time in my life when I need to start planning for the future. It may not be the most relaxing of tasks, but it has to be done! The first hurdle was to decide on a 'theme' for my future accommodation, be it a flat or a house. I'd initially set my mind to 'pink', and so invested in a pink towel. However, I sharp changed my mind.

And now, well now I've set my heart on an entire house splurged with 'Stars and Stripes', an American theme if you will. Needless to say, locating pink items for a house would be a much easier challenge than trying to find specific items with Stars and Stripes on it, but where's the adventure in that?!

I've managed to source two things so far for my 'future' collection. Perhaps they're not the most exciting of items, perhaps they are! The first is just a little set of bath and hand towels, some blue and some red, to fit in with the colour coordination. And the second? Well that made me yelp with delight! For it is a bin! Yes, a bin! But this is no ordinary bin, as it has 'Broadway' written on the side of it! How exciting is that?!

I shall keep my eyes widely open for lots more exciting US items. A large flag would be nice, a rug perhaps. Various websites online have the odd suitable household item, which I'll definitely look into buying as soon as I come back from the States later this year. I'll dot New York City canvas pictures around the walls. My obsession could even draw me to sticking receipts from the States into red or blue frames and dotting them around the house, we'll have to see!

For now, this is as far as my 'future' collection goes. In good time, it will grow. But I am sticking by my decision. I will live in a Stars and Stripes home for as long as I live! ♥

Amy x

"Stars and Stripes 'til I die"

Econococolocopuss, Car'Rhea and a big Balloon

2011-01-04T04:16:00.000-08:00

Friday 13th August 2010. A day I will never forget...

"Why, I hear you ask?"
Good question! In fact, no. It's a wonderful question, as you've now openly invited me to share with you my most treasured experience. However, before I get into that, we must strip the bones bare and head back to the day where my story began. Are you sitting comfortably?

Once Upon a Time...
My fairytale begins on a seasonably warm afternoon in Spring, as I sit at my table, browsing lazily through Facebook. It was then that I noticed on Costaki Economopoulos' profile that he was coming to Edinburgh. Well, that was it. My heart stopped beating, and I raced to send him a message (yes, I know they're not exactly brilliantly juxtaposed!). The message went something like this...

"Costaki, you're coming to Edinburgh? As in, Edinburgh Scotland? As in, Edinburgh Scotland just two hours from where I live?!"

It wasn't long before I received a reply from his greatness, a confirmation message that he was indeed coming to Edinburgh, Scotland (just two hours from where I lived!), for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Now there is something you need to know about Costaki. Not only is he one of the greatest comedians of all time, but he is also the partner of, and father of the child of, Caroline Rhea. My greatest love in life is 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch'; it dominates 100% of my thoughts (that's 0.1% greater than the germs Dettol eliminates), and now I had just been told that my Witchy 'Aunt Hilda' was coming across from America with her very funny parter to perform at the Fringe. I'll tell you something, it took me a while to breathe properly again after I'd found that out!

My Golden Ticket
One of the worst things in the world is waiting. I'm so incredibly impatient, so when I realised that tickets for the Festival weren't on sale for over a month, I had a very anxious wait ahead of me. On the morning of their release, the Gilded Balloon website (linked below) was actually down due to technical issues, so I ended up biting my finger nails into non-existence. I finally bought my ticket nearer to midday, slyly on my mobile phone's lousy internet connection at college. Perhaps I should have been studying for an exam instead, but life's all about prioritising!

Once the glitch on the website was fixed, purchasing my ticket was quite easy (even from a small mobile phone!). Navigating around the website is straight forward too, with the sections all marked out colourfully. The information you need to provide is the basic name, address etc, as well as your card details for payment (all major cards accepted). You can then choose to have your ticket delivered, or pick it up. As I lived a little away from Edinburgh, I opted for delivery. This meant I had to pay a little extra on top of my ticket price, but for Caroline, I'd have paid it thrice over. If you do choose to collect your ticket, you can do this via the ticket office in the Gilded Balloon. My friend who accompanied me on my little trip chose this option, and we found that the staff in the ticket office were very friendly and helpful. The customer service is definitely something to shout about - I contacted them a few times on Twitter (@GildedBalloon) beforehand and always received informative and kind replies.

A few weeks before the Festival, my ticket, in it's glorious yellow colour, arrived safely on my doorstep in its little envelope. It was real. It was really happening!

It's Hardly Maraunda's Map...
The main problem that arises when visiting someplace new is trying to find your way around. Thankfully, the power of the internet has made planning our paths a lot easier (I'll be honest, I didn't exactly fancy wandering around Edinburgh with a giant map!). Before I left, I spent a little while on Google Maps, walking around the virtual area planning my route, scribbling down directions and street names. Eventually I was satisfied that I would be able to navigate my friend and I.

The Gilded Balloon is not too far from the train station itself, which is naturally where the majority of Festival goers will enter the city from, be it a direct train or a small commute from Haymarket. The building itself is right in the centre of the Festival during the time of the Fringe, and is always quite easy to spot because of its large 'Gilded Balloon' purple sign that's on the front of the building. Should you have any problems finding it, I'd suggest simply asking for directions, however it shouldn't be too difficult to locate! As I said, it is quite easy to spot and should stand out quite well.

"Will there be tables and stuff? Like a proper debate?"
Before I continue my own tale, I should probably take the time to mention the main attractions of the Gilded Balloon - I understand that not everybody may adore Caroline and Costaki, as shocking as that statement is! However, you do have to be a fan of comedy, as this is naturally their main focus. During the time of the Fringe, they have an endless list of performers, of which all are listed on their website and outside the building itself on large pink boards nearer the time. You'll need to check the website for performer information, as just with any other comedy venue, the gigs are listed as and when they're booked. You can then book tickets accordingly and proceed with planning your laughter events.

There are various rooms in the Gilded Balloon, so the size you enter will depend on the nature of the visit/ demand for the comedian etc. I was in the Debating Hall, which is the largest room seating 360 people. Now I would like to take this opportunity to humiliate my friend at this point. When she heard it was the Debating Hall, she asked me, with all seriousness, if we were going to be taking part in a debate. In her defence she had never been to a stand up event before, however nor had I... Oh, how I laughed. At her. You then have the Dining Room (188 seats), the Nightclub (150 seats), the Wine Bar (147 seats), the Billiard Room (75 seats), the Balcony (60 seats), the Sportsman (87 seats) and the Wee Room (50 seats), so it is clear to see that there is plenty of room there for various performers and comedy fans at one time!

Whilst you're awaiting the time to go into your designated room, you have the option to sit in one of the seven bars and cafes they have on site. The Teviot Bar, their main bar, is open until 5am during the Festival, so you'll never be left to wait in the cold!

"Are you little Amy?"
Seated in my front row seat in the Debating Room, my heart raced. The curtains stage right flitched, and I saw Costaki Economopoulos peer out from the side to get a glimpse of the packed room. Oh my, he's real! I'd talked to him online a lot, and have watched many video clips, but the moment you see somebody you adore in the flesh for the first time, it's so surreal. A few moments later, and he was stood in front of me, one hand in his jeans pocket, the other resting on the microphone. His voice, so fresh and American, filled the atmosphere with warmth and laughter. The evening could not be more perfect...

Oh, how wrong I was. For things just kept becoming more golden. Ten minutes later, Costaki introduced the audience to his oh-so-beautiful partner, and as she walked out onto the stage, I felt my stomach churn. There she was. Caroline Rhea. My Witchy Aunt Hilda. For eleven years, that woman has taught me everything I know (along with Witchy Aunt Zelda/Beth Broderick!), and now...NOW she was stood before me. Granted, I had to avert my eyes occasionally as she was wearing a dress (as lovely as it was!), but I truly didn't care. Eleven long years I had waited for this, and here she was.

As she walked along the stage, interacting with various audience members, she turned to me and stopped. "Are you little Amy?!". What? How did she...? Oh! I glanced down at my shirt. I'd had a tshirt made leading up to the event, with a picture of Caroline on it. She was also aware of the fact that I was going to the show that evening, so she had put two and two together, and on this occasion got four!

Before I knew it, she had me standing aside her on the stage, showing off my attire to the audience. Was this real? Was Caroline really talking to me? Standing aside me? Wrapping her arm around my shoulders? As a child, I never imagined being in the same room as my 'Aunt Hilda', and this...well, this was something even I couldn't have imagined. Taking my seat a short while later, I enjoyed the rest of the comedy (and oh how funny it was!), Caroline still talking to me occasionally, and announcing to the audience that I am a 'big Sabrina fan'...an understatement from the dear there, but oh how I loved her for that!

Say Cheese!
The hour of laughter may have been over, but the insanity didn't stop there. I was blessed with spending a little time with them outside the Hall afterwards. Okay so there was other people there wanting to see Caroline, but it felt like it was just the four of us (Costaki, Caroline, myself and my friend - she seemed to have got lost in this story so I thought it was time to bring the character back!). I went to shake Costaki's hand, and he decided to hug me instead... amazing! Though I must say, my hand was very close to certain regions! For me, not a disastrous thing, but for him? Probably not the best! Caroline decided to hand me a few gifts she'd brought for me... a little keyring and a jumper from her "What is it you can't face?" line (Sound of Music joke, and my favourite ever!). That was very unexpected, and left me nearly hyperventilating; there's only so much surprise you can take in an hour and a half.

A few pictures later and it was time to head off - the friend and I had to catch the last train back to Kirkcaldly, and even that was perfect timing! I'll be honest, I didn't want to leave Caroline and Costaki. If I had my way, I'd be in their company all day, every day, they're so delightful! I don't think that would go down too well with them though!

Econococolocopuss and Car'Rhea
I've reflected on this day so many times since, and each time I feel my heart twang, my stomach churn and my head spin. It still doesn't feel real, it still hasn't sunk in. I cannot thank Gilded Balloon enough for their excellent service, for their friendly staff and their amazing customer care. And for the fact that they booked Caroline and Costaki. Without them, none of this could have been possible. I thank Caroline 'Car'Rhea' Rhea, for being the most wonderful person in the world. I laughed, I cried, and I looked generally stunned and abnormal. Because of that absolute dear. Of course, the biggest thank you goes to Costaki 'Econococolocopuss'* Economopoulos, for answering my emails and messages, for listening to me and for being absolutely perfect. They've given me a dream come true, and I truly love them for it!

Amy x

*Somebody once called Costaki 'Econococolocopuss' as they could not pronounce his surname, and so this has stuck with me!

Website:
www.gildedballoon.co.uk

My video about the experience

And so 2011 begins...

2011-01-01T02:14:00.001-08:00

Here we are, my first blog post of 2011. More precisely, it's 1/1/11, which is pretty special! It's so cliche to say that the previous year has flown by, but it seems like only yesterday that I was reading Hattie Crisell's blog post regarding the debate focusing on how we were all to pronounce 2010. It would seem that the majority of us settled for 'twenty ten', and now we have traveled into 'twenty eleven'.

I've got to say, sitting from the comfort of my living room, the fireworks display looked spectacular. What I'd give to be down in London next New Year! I can imagine it has a pretty hefty price tag to it though, which I'm fairly sure we cannot really afford! Nonetheless, it was a wonderful way to see in 2011. And then it was time for bed.

With every new year, we are given the chance to start afresh. I've no idea why we're 'not allowed' to turn over a new leaf in the middle of July, but never mind! So have I set any resolutions? Well, yes and no. My first resolution was to keep any resolutions that I decide to make. I've an incapability of sticking to plans I set for the upcoming months. However, this year, I will keep them. Or at the very least, I can try! I aim to get fitter, to 'shape up' to the extreme. Daily long walks. Eat less, move more. Simple, right? Well, we'll see!

The one thing I love most about a brand new year, is a brand new calendar (or two!). I'll be straight, I've never had a calendar that I've adored as much as my 2007 Billie Piper one, and the David Tennant one that I hung aside it. There has yet to be another Piper calendar released, official or otherwise, however I'm now on my third Tennant calendar! Last year I was the proud owner of a David Tennant calendar and a Cheryl Cole one. This year, I am the proud owner of...a David Tennant calendar and a Cheryl Cole one. Yep. That's how adventurous I am. (Ooh, and a Matt Smith slim diary, so that's perfection!).

We've been in this year for just over ten hours, and so far, so good. Let's hope it carries on this way with a better climate, both financial and atmospheric! 2010 was a big year for the media, for occasions and celebrations, and 2011 may just be even bigger. We've twelve months of this year left, so let's enjoy it!

Happy New Year!

Amy x

Accompanying video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=icDoqm0Tncs

Layf in th finetic lain

2010-12-09T05:58:00.000-08:00

It seems thit meny skools nowidais hav taikin to teechin childrin spelin fineticly. Strait away it ocurd to me thit this cud cos meny problims not unly for th studints but olso for evrybody they may ever cum into kontact with.

If yor tot from day won that yoo need t spel wurds th wiy yoo sey them, won wud hav t wunder wen in layf yood akchily lurn to spel sed wurds corektly. Needlis t sey, spelin fineticly yor entayr layf is gowin t mayk comyoonicaytin a bit of a chalinj. Others arownd yoo may not neseserily hav the saym aksent as yoo, and so they mey pronowns ther wurds difrently to yoo. For ixampl, the avrij Amerikn will pronowns ther wurds entayrly difrent from a Skot, or a Jordy. Comyoonicaytin throo th meedeeum of raytin otomaticly becums a greyt chalinj.

Not ownly wil yoo strugl with interactin with others, but yoo may have dificulty with reedin as yoo will not hav lurnt how to spel th wurds beefor yoo, thus not noin wot they luk layk in corect print. Yoo may never gayn a proper understandin for the Inglish langwij and yoo wil not b opind t th wurld of litrachr.

Leeding a finetic layfstayl cud end up maykin layf dificult. For thows with dedicayshin and pashin, thows who wont to lurn, then they may b mor wilin t pik up th propr way t spel thows wurds wich help us get throo eech day. For th childrin however who dunt reely kare in ther erlier days, they may end up regretin not maykin mor efort wen it caym to stepin away from finetic spelin.

If yoo hav strugld t reed this, I thanc yoo. It has meerly proovn may poynt thit wraytin fineticly is not gowin to b a tacticl lurnin methid.

Yors
Aymee

World AIDS Day 2010

2010-11-30T12:02:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow we see World Aids Day, a day that cannot receive enough attention. I feel, however, that the day, and indeed the growing problem with Aids, is often overshadowed by other diseases and illnesses. We all know of the major cancer charities, or where to turn to if we wish to donate and help out such illnesses. Ask yourself this though: if you had to today give your spare change to those suffering with Aids, would you know where to look? If you feared you may have contracted the disease, needed help, would you know who to turn to?

People fear Aids. They don't like to talk about it. They don't like to think about it. It is not because they are arrogant, nor is it because they don't care. It is, sadly, because they simply do not know. Aids is considered a filthy, dirty disease that only the most vulgar among us suffer from. This is a world from the truth. If only people were educated on the disease, on how to approach the subject, then maybe help and support for those suffering would be more widespread.

Please use tomorrow as a day to start your learning process; the Internet is bursting with information, and with charities who will often be more than happy to accommodate your queries. Lay the foundations with the information you may already have, and continue to build upon this, each step growing richer with knowledge. Donate if you can; nothing is too little. If you cannot afford to spare money, please still spread the word. The more people who are aware of the disease, the easier it will be to battle it together.

The world is large and there are too many people who unfortunately are suffering from Aids, or perhaps know somebody fighting with the disease. Let tomorrow be the day that you join those who are supporting Aids sufferers in their battle. As one person, we may not feel like we can make a difference, but together we can. With your help, we can take one step closer with the fight against AIDS.

- Amy

'Ask Rhod Gilbert'

2010-10-01T04:16:00.000-07:00

He's gruff, he's gorgeous, and he's very very funny.

Yes, I'm talking about Rhod Gilbert. A man who allowed me to fall in love with his comedy after a mere minute of raging in his Welsh tone. When I noticed BBC were bringing us a 'Gilbert-packed' comedy panel show in the form of 'Ask Rhod Gilbert', I was ecstatic. I'd made my mind up prior to it's air date - it was going to be incredible. Was it going to live up to the high expectations I had set it though?

In short: yes. It very much did. The BBC seem to churn out a lot of panel based comedy shows - 'Mock the Week' and 'QI' to name just a few - and while most are brilliant, there are a few bruised apples in the bunch. I did fear that the show in question was going to be part of the latter group of shows, but thankfully it turned out to be polished shiny.

The format of the show is nothing too complicated - you have some questions set at the beginning, ones which certain celebrities would perhaps ask if they were to appear on the show. Most are a little random, and at the same time quite appropriate to the celebrity, and this alone provides some humour before any of the panelists have even shared their comic views. The audience have a turn to ask questions, and again this brings more randomness to mix up the entertainment.

While the panelists are answering the questions in their own ways, there's a lead researcher perched at a desk to Rhod's right, 'researching' to find a possible correct answer to said questions. This is a nice little feature, albeit not essential, and gives the show a little extra zing. In the first episode, this lead researcher came in the form of Kate Silverton, with the two guest panelists being Amanda Byram and Jo Brand. Brand especially provided a large dollop of hilarity with her views on eating meat.

The two wonderfuls Greg Davies and Lloyd Langford are our two regular panelists, so it's a delight that they both provide a lot of laughter. Rhod himself of course spilled jokes and lines throughout the forty minute episode that kept the viewer intently listening and hungry for more.

Viewers have an opportunity to get involved on Twitter, by tweeting a question to the show using the hashtag #askrhod, which then gives them the added excitement of hoping that their question will be answered on the following week's show. In all, the delightful atmosphere the studio set out, when intertwined with the selection of panelists, created a lovely show that was nothing but enjoyale. The aching cheeks, the split sides and the warm fuzzy feeling I was left with completes the package of perfection which 'Ask Rhod Gilbert' delivered.

Amy x

Doctor Who Series 1, episode 9/10 - 'The Empty Child/The Doctor Dances'

2010-10-01T03:57:00.001-07:00

Video review:

I'd already discovered the delights of the tenth Doctor before I'd ventured into the world of Eccleston's 'fantastic' Doctor, but it didn't take me long to realise that the first series of the show was just as mesmerising as the second. By the time I reached episode nine, I was already head over heels in love with the leather-jacket wearing, all grinning all bounding nineth Doctor and knew that no matter how dire an episode plot would be, nothing could dampen the mood of such a glorious man. Having skimmed over the plot briefly before viewing however, I felt I had nothing to worry about. I only hoped my prejudgement was going to be correct.

The two parter episodes, 'The Empty Child' and 'The Doctor Dances', may have aired in May of 2005, but it removed us completely from present day and sent us back to London in 1941, during the Blitz. Almost immediately, Rose goes off to venture around, leaving the Doctor to try and source a missing companion. However it's not long before he has even bigger problems, when he realises a lonely little boy looking for his mother is carrying an infectious disease that the Doctor thought could only be alien. Whilst trying to route to the source of this threatening problem, Rose finds herself in the arms of a charming Time Traveller, away from the Doctor.

I'm a massive History Geek, so to have two episodes set during the Second World War was brilliant. The thought alone of combining said era with one of the greatest TV shows of all time was thrilling. Kudos to the costume department - I was incredibly impressed with the array of 1940s clothes used to create the ideal feel. The street sounds, the set designs, the blackened sky lit up by fleeting airplanes; it all created the perfect atmosphere for viewers to experience. I've seem some shoddy shows over the years which simply didn't carry across a genuine enough Blitz presence, but this one was golden.

The quality of the acting was brilliant. I'd have expected nothing less from Chris (Eccleston) and Billie (Piper) - I knew what they were capable of and this they had delivered. However, being a first time viewer of John Barrowman, I was incredibly impressed with his portrayal of Captain Jack Harkness - he allowed me to fall in love with the character immediately, which is only a good thing. Florence Hoath was lovely as Nancy - you could see clearly the mixed emotions which were sunk deep behind her eyes; the fear in her heart for Jamie, which was bundled around the love she helf for him.

I've yet to be disappointed by an episode written by Steven Moffatt - that man's a genuis. I can say the same for James Hawes, director of the two episodes in question. There are some especially beautiful scenes throughout both, ones which have you on the edge of your seat with your heart in your mouth, and others which make you blink furiously to fight back the tears. Hawes also directed my three other personal favourite episodes - definitely fine work there.

If I were to recommend any particular series one episode to a first time Doctor Who viewer, it would without a doubt be these two. In fact, I'd go as far as saying that they're not just one of the best in the series, but one of the best out of the entire twenty-first Century 'Doctor Who' series'. I struggle to find even a smudge of imperfection upon both 'The Empty Child' and 'The Doctor Dances'. They're beautifully frightful and will certainly leave a scar in your mind.

Amy x

EastEnders - Queen Vic fire/Peggy

2010-09-10T16:12:00.000-07:00

There are a few key ingredients needed to create a memorable, and indeed spectacular, episode in a television soap. The right characters need to be involved; any strays simply weaken the fabric. The directing, the movement, the sound, they all need to be perfect and appropriate. Excelling in the realms of acting needs to take place, and emotions need to be high. 'EastEnders' this week has provided the exact amount this week in order to make Barbara Windsor's departure one to remember.

When the news broke that Windsor was leaving the show, I like many others was devastated. How could the show function without this much loved matriarch?! I'd well prepared myself for her final scenes, knowing they were going to be unbearable. As a Pyrophobic, watching the beloved Queen Vic pub burn was never going to be easy, but as it slowly disappeared yesterday, I couldn't take my eye off of the screen. A lot of work had clearly gone into those scenes in particular, and it was not an easy set to film I'm sure. However, the atmosphere on screen was beautiful. The entire Square helping one another and working as one; when Zainab helped Syed, I felt the back of my eyes prick - could this be the start of their reunite?

With little Lily upstairs, there was panic that she and Stacey would not make it out alive but luckily lovely Ryan came to their rescue - Walford's own hero. I was naturally pleased with this action, and feel it added to the character greatly. However, even the relief at the end when I realised everybody was safe was not enough to stop me from breaking down.

From the very beginning of Friday's episode, I struggled to hold it together. Seeing Peggy bid farewell to all was heartbreaking from this side of the screen - I cannot begin to imagine what it would have been like to film those beautiful scenes. The golden moment was when Peggy bravely went back into the destroyed Vic, allowing the production to really shine through. The audio clips from Vic scenes previous filled us all with memories galore from the Queen Vic - a sure sign that this building is more than just that.

After her sorrowful goodbyes, we see Peggy looking up at the Vic one last time, her eyes filled with tears, before slowly leaving the Square without looking back. As 'Peggy's Theme' fills our living rooms with its beautifully heart aching sound, tears roll down cheeks and hearts ache as we wave goodbye to one of the most amazing 'EastEnders' characters of all time.

Both episodes at the end of this week were heavenly. I do feel that the final scene in the Vic should have been at the end, just before Peggy left, but other than that it was perfect. The acting was splendid all round, but Barbara especially gave a fantastic final performance as Peggy. I do not recall being so upset watching the show, not since we said goodbye to Dennis, New Year 2005. As it stands, this is the last we shall see of the Square's favourite Landlady, but who knows what tomorrow will bring!

Amy x

Searching through the stars

2010-09-03T12:10:00.000-07:00

You sit there, praying for it to happen. You long to turn the corner and see him standing there. You hold your breath in the hope that, somewhere in the distance, you'll hear him approaching. You ache to hear his voice, ensuring you he'll stand by you until the worlds collide. At the end of the Earth, together until the end of time. You think you hear him, calling you. You should out. He never replies.

You look up at the sky, an aeroplane passes overhead. You had hoped it was him, coming to pick you up off the ground and remove all heartache you'd locked inside. You realise you're still standing there, alone in the night with nowhere to go.

You tell yourself he'll be there for you tomorrow. 'He'll come and find me, you'll see'. That glorious being with so much warmth running through him. The fear he holds behind his eyes, the mysterious air around him. His clothes, his hair, his smile. Oh, his smile! Never before could anybody light up the world with a single beautiful smile.

You see him in your dreams. Hear him, feel him. He's out there somewhere. You'll never give up searching, across the galaxies and into the unknown. A man of such depth, such adoration. You need him to notice you; to sense you; to feel you. You need him to take you away. You need him to love you. In your heart, he remains, your mind he won't leave. Your life. Your love. Your Doctor.

'Larry 1984' - what people do not understand, they fear

2010-06-01T14:05:00.000-07:00

You spend hours scouring the web, flitting through thousands of articles. Blog posts. Bulletins. Some are packed with humor, others compelling. Every so often you will come across an article that will remain in your thoughts for some time. Maybe at first you won't realize the impact it will have, but hours after you have absorbed its content, you find yourself lying awake at night. You can see the words, transferred from the screen and now imprinted in your mind. You've no choice but to mull it over, stroking each word and analyzing each paragraph. Such articles are few and far between, but recently my life was enlightened by such a piece.

Beth Broderick. An Goddess of a woman with a heart in every realm. Ms Broderick is a cherished writer for 'The Huffington Post' and just short of a week ago I stumbled across her most recent post on the website. Entitled simply 'Larry 1984', I wasn't sure what its focus was. Thus I wasn't able to prepare myself for any unexpected emotions. My barrier was left down. With an open heart and an open mind, I began to read...

I found myself sucked in to the article from that very moment. Beth wonderfully sets a scene for us. A fairly pleasant little story about a young man in New York City who dreams of his acting career. He has the determination, the passion, the commitment. This is clear to see. It would seem that nothing could stop him.

I only wish I could say it carried on that way. The 'story' takes us to the 1980s, a time when the disease known as AIDS was only just beginning to surface. There wasn't a clear understanding. People were scared. Scared of being infected. Scared of people already suffering.

Beth goes on to tell us of Larry's painful battle, as we watch him grow weaker with each day. You can see him, lying there. So weak. You want to reach out to help him. Save him. But you cannot. You just sit there. Your heart is racing as the words continue to sink deeper. You can feel the back of your eyes pricking as you approach the end of the article, knowing all too well now that this story has just one path.

You read the closing words and a single tear rolls peacefully down your cheek. This is followed by another. And another. They are streaming down your face, cascades of emotion pouring out as you are left feeling helpless, distraught.

I've found myself thinking about Larry frequently since. Even now, I sit here and struggle to put words together - they seem to lose all meaning when you take the time to think about what sufferers have to go through, how impossibly painful it must be in every which way. I praise Beth in all that she does with raising awareness. I think even now, people are too afraid. AIDS is still considered by many to be a filthy disease, something they don't want to be associated with. They do not fully understand how it is contracted. They do not for one second take the time to consider those who are struggling to cope each day as they fight against it, how unbelievably agonizing it must be.

Please do not think that it is just Third World countries have to suffer this ordeal; the disease has spread worldwide. While it seems all is at a loss, we must not think like this. We cannot. We may not have been affected directly, but this does not mean that this is not our problem. No matter who you are, no matter where you are, you can do something today. At the very least, spread the word. Tell others about the epidemic. If you can, make a donation however small. And learn. The more we know about AIDS, the more we can help. People are still often afraid to speak of the disease, but we cannot be. This will not solve anything. If we put all our powers as one, together we can fight this disease that has plagued us all for far too long. We just need to have the strength - the strength to believe and the strength to take action. With Unity, we can overcome AIDS once and for all.

Amy x

Beth's 'Larry 1984' for 'The Huffington Post':
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/beth-broderick/larry-1984_b_375801.html

Picking the flowers from the garden of reality

2010-05-10T13:33:00.000-07:00

At long last, Spring has finally arrived. The birds are chirping merrily in the sky, the grass is fresh and luscious. Baby lambs bleat their way across the field and flowers are blooming around every corner. The air is filled with the sweet smell of joy and children everywhere are making daisy chains...

SNAP! Yes, that was me snapping back to reality. I can conclude that that is most certainly not the Spring we are faced with. It sounds more like something out of a Monet painting. Which, for the record, are always beautiful. There's something that's so refreshing about Spring, no matter what the weather. Perhaps in previous years we did have that glorious sunshine beaming down on us and allowing our gardens to bloom, but now the Teletubby baby is just looking down and laughing at us from her perch on the sun. We may have rain, we may have breeze, but it is so incredibly delicious. There's nothing more annoying than that 'cheeky Volvic' advert that seems to have infiltrated our televisions just now, but I cannot lie – there really isn't anything as revitalising as water. In this instance, rain water. I find nothing more enjoyable that taking a walk in the rain; a little sun melted softly in the sky, a cool breeze wrapping you up as the rain slowly drifts down and washes out your sorrows. Sensational.

There's something about Spring time that always takes me back to my childhood – Easter always brought great fun in Primary school. This is especially true when it came to our weekly hymn practice. For the life of me I cannot recall the name of this particular song, but we used to sing about an Easter Bonnet and people wearing smiles upon their faces...all very cheerful and sunny. Oh, and of course 'The Sun Has Got His Hat On'...clearly in the '90s, Little Miss Teletubby Sun was still a B-Lister and did not feel the need to hide her face behind overpriced Prada sunglasses.

I have to admit though, Spring time is my second favourite season, narrowly beaten by Autumn. It doesn't seem to last long though. Maybe because it's so damn hard to distinguish the difference between 'Spring' and 'Summer'. They seem to be merged into one – mainly because the weather is generally dreary throughout those months anyway. It's not until we get the luscious Autumn leaves a-tumbling that we realise we are finally out of our so-called sunbathing weather and back into the darker nights. Never fear though – when this happens, it means that Halloween, Bobunk and Christmas are all just around the corner!

As I look out the window upon my city life street, I see cars. I see scaffolding and annoying council vans that cause drilling and hammering from 8am onwards. There's a line of dustbins by the kerb waiting to be emptied, some uncannily naked trees aside them. I long to see a ladybird. I hope for a butterfly to come a fluttering by. There's barely a bird chirping in the sky. I see no daisies, I see no chains. Just muddy floors and filthy windowpanes.

Is this our fault? Have we abolished Spring? Are we just too set in our grumpiness and moaning about the current condition of our country that we forget to truly appreciate the things Mother Nature offered to us to love and cherish for free? It seems that we have lost interest in a vision of beauty and have instead turned our surroundings into a post-scenic wreck. If we just believe, we can have it all back. We can recreate those happy childhood memories so many among us have locked away along with the Easter bunny, fluffy chicks and painted eggs. But instead, we choose to drop our litter, break our fences and hide away in the darkness. It would seem, in a way perhaps not so obvious, that we could be staring Armageddon right in the face...

Amy x

Youtube is down?!

2010-03-25T05:08:00.000-07:00

Never before have I witnessed so much intensity on Twitter. So much stress and inpatience. I am a victim of these traits, for it took one small statement to hinder my plans.

Http/1.1 Service Unavailable

Yes, that's right. Youtube is down. Twitter is going crazy and bloggers are having a feel day. Youtube Partners everywhere must be sweating at the thought of losing precious pennies their videos bring them. And I? Well I had one minute left on a video I was uploading after sitting there twiddling my thumbs for a good part of an hour, and the system decides to simply 'stop working' just before my video had the chance fully upload. Typical.

Of course, not all is at a loss. Providing we visit the link directly, we are still able to view embedded videos, but we cannot sign in. No comments can be left, no messages can be sent, and indeed no five star ratings can be given for those special videos that make you chuckle. So what now?

Well all we can do now is watch the clock. Minutes turn into hours as we refresh the page over and over again, praying that each time, Youtube will be fully functioning once more. Still there has been no explanation sent forward from the site; we remain clueless and left to ponder. The East coast has long surfaced, but only now will millions of Americans be dragging themselves out of bed to discover this terrifying global disaster. All is currently lost, but let's hope it is not for much longer.

So let's all join hands and sing to the heavens in unity, hoping that an everlasting bonding of peace and harmony will bring the beloved site back into action. And if that doesn't work, we can smash our cameras. Kum Ba Ya.

Amy x

Nine Dead

2010-03-18T04:52:00.000-07:00

Time is running out...

When I saw the trailer for Nine Dead last year, I was amazed. Intrigued. You know when you see a clip of a film and you just know that you will not be able to rest until you've seen it? Well at long last I can finally put my mind at ease, as I can officially say I've seen the film - but was it worth the wait?

In short, yes! Within the first few minutes I found myself hooked. You know straight away what the plot of the film is - nine people are held captive and unless they work out why they are there, they are going to die in turn. It's a pretty straight forward plot as far as movies go, yet so gripping. You want to know immediately why the nine are there. As they learn little snippets of information about each other they try and piece together connections, and you find yourself doing the same, trying to unravel the story.

The plan of the killer is to shoot one of the nine every ten minutes until they work out why they are there. This is the one time that clock watching with movies is a good thing. You find yourself frantically skimming your eyes over the clock, calculating how many minutes are left before one more dies. You pray that they resolve this sinister puzzle before the time is up. You want to help them. You long to shout out them when they side track from the point. It's incredibly addictive.

Not only was the film well acted, but it's incredibly scripted and beautifully directed. It is set mainly in the windowless prison of a room where the nine are handcuffed to a wall, and usually the lack of scene changes in a film can become a little tedious and dull but this is so fantastically done that you cannot take your eyes away from the screen, fearing that you will miss something.

The end of the film is quite a surprise; in a way it has two potential endings run together, and then you are still left guessing at the possible outcome, allowing you to make your own mind up. It really annoys me when you sit through a great film, and then find out that the ending is not a scratch upon the rest. Luckily this was not a problem. Even the end credits are worth watching, for they appropriately run Course of Nature's 'Anger Cage' under them.

I can well and truly say that that was an hour and a half of my life well spent. It is truly a fantastic film that has left me hungry for more. It is one I will certainly watch again and again, and have just christened it one of my all time favorite films (alongside The Lion King and Mary Poppins...). If you have yet to see it, it is definitely worth going out of your way to see. You'll not regret it, and that's a promise.

x

Let's Dance (Sport Relief 2010) - Ellie Crisell

2010-02-23T11:54:00.000-08:00

Just a quick blog update for you...

When I found out Ellie Crisell was taking part in this year's Let's Dance, I was more than ecstatic!

Ellie does mean the world to me, of course she does! She is 50% the reason why I fell in love with TV Presenting (the other 50% naturally being Konnie Huq...) and I am quite surprised that whenever I raise her name in a conversation, I am more often than not responded with 'Who?'.

When I discovered that Louise Minchin too was dancing, I was bordering on being overwhelmed! It was as if the newsreaders group had been put together for my sake. They were just missing Bill Turnbull! Their performance was perfect to say the least, and given Ellie's dancing background I could have expected nothing less!

There were a few remarks made on twitter re Ellie, and I must agree with the fact that she did adopt a much more sexy, 'flaunt it all' persona. A great deal of difference from her squeaky clean Newsround image, for sure! She did look delightful and did not stop smiling throughout the comments, and even when it was announced that they were out of the competition (first, I would like to point out! FIRST!).

So the seven times I voted may have lost me a fiver and may not have helped my Newsreaders trio, but it did leave me feeling proud of myself. I don't tend to vote unless I truly want somebody to progress. I may not have made a difference this time, but I am still incredibly proud of Ellie and the rest. They did fantastically well!

So best of luck to Katy and Rufus, and I cannot wait for Shappi Khorsandi's dance next week - anybody know who she is dancing with? Just a week to go until the excitement can begin again...

I have found a new love, in the form of Sport Relief!

Amy x

(originally posted 20/2/10)

Quotes

2010-02-23T07:46:00.000-08:00

Beth Broderick
"Balls! Balls! Balls! Balls!" - Sabrina the Teenage Witch

Carol McGiffin
"Spotty...Spotty...Spotted...?...OH!...Dick?!" - All Star Family Fortunes

Caroline Rhea
"And a one-a and a two-a and a three-a!" - Sabrina the Teenage Witch

Coleen Nolan
"They're chocolate coated strawberries!" - Iceland advert, Christmas 2009
"My cowboy just touched me ass!" - Nolans tour DVD

Curt Andersen
"Mr Kraft needs milk!" - Sabrina the Teenage Witch

Jackie Brambles
"Robert's on the bird table!" - Loose Women
"Is he messy?...Tissue?" - Loose Women

Salem, Sabrina The Teenage Witch
"Pilgrim! Pilgrim!"
"Your house is on m'fire! You can't m'fire me, I m'quit!"

Tracy-Ann Oberman
"Welcome. To Torchwood!" - Doctor Who

EastEnders Live episode 19/2/2010

2010-02-19T11:25:00.000-08:00

19th February 2010, Friday
07:00am
Wake up. Realise today is the day when the nation finds out who killed Archie Mitchell. Yelp with delight.

1:00pm
Leave for college. Keep thinking of EastEnders to help get through the afternoon.

7:00pm
Turn on the soaps. Realise that EastEnders starts in just an hour. Yelp with delight.

7:30pm
Just half an hour to go. Yelp with delight.

8:00pm
Draw all attention to the television. Control shaking as theme tune starts. Yelp with delight. And breathe...

8:30pm
Scream. Cry. Wail.

9:40pm
I'm now sitting here, watching 'The Weakest Link: EastEnders Special', calming down. I was looking forward to tonight's EastEnders. Of course I was. But at the same time,I was nervous. Very nervous.

There were two main reasons for my uncontrollable shaking, aside from the excitement. First of all, you have the aspect that the show was going to be live. I'd never before watched any show live before, so I had no idea what to expect. I can now confirm though that the show ran amazingly for the thirty minutes. Watching carefully I waited as somebody took a tumble or mumbled up a line. However the whole cast managed to float through their scripts with grace and if any mistakes were made, they went unnoticed.

And the second factor that had me in a tizz was the fact that this was the episode which revealed to us the murderer of Archie Mitchell. I had my predictions: Jack, Ryan, Sean. When dear Lacey whispered in fear at the end, sharing her darkest secret with Max, Stacey's life was setting up to take a dramatic turn. Not for one moment did I believe that Stacey was the killer. In my head I simply could not get it to fit. But now that the secret is out, I can just about adjust to the way the story has turned. I only hope that we do not see the back of Stacey now, that would be horrid!

That brings me to Bradley. Bradders. My fellow Doctor Who lover. The man with the nut allergy. Many people were not very impressed with him when Charlie joined the cast back in 2006, but I have always had a soft spot for Mr Clements. I'd heard so many rumours about Charlie's exit. One said he got shot, others said he committed suicide. It's hard to work out what exactly happened, but all that we know is that Bradley plummeted from the roof of the Vic. He may have jumped, he may have simply lost his balance. Either way he will be truly missed, and I can only hope that one day my heart will stop grieving for the loss of a great character!

The 25th birthday live episode was well and truly a phenomenon. It is one episode that will go down in history, and is something the BBC should be more than proud of. A lot of work has clearly gone into the show and it has certainly paid off. It was a delight to watch, albeit exceedingly emotional, and one that will be a challenge to beat.

EastEnders, you are a gem of a show, no finer one around.

Amy x

Coronation Steet - Peter Barlow, alcoholic

2010-02-05T12:39:00.000-08:00

I knew it was coming. Yet I was still astounded.

We all know Peter Barlow was a recovering alcoholic, but I think I speak for the majority when I say I truly thought he was safe from drink. Though, this being 'Coronation Street', we can often be easily deceived. And when Leanne set about opening the bar, trouble was not too far away...

It goes without said that Peter was going to be tempted; surrounded by drink on a daily basis is to be any recovering alcoholic's nightmare. It's like putting a child in a sweet shop and dragging them out before they get to sample the fine delights. Having seen clips, I was aware that Peter was going to slip up, but I was incredibly surprised at the pace of it all.

It's the welcome night at the bar, Leanne is happily swanning around and greeting her guests. And Peter? He's left to his own devices to down all the glasses of champagne he wishes. And just as Ken turns up, with a change in his heart ready to support his son, Peter finally spirals.

And it is not even he who I feel sorry for. It's Leanne. It's Ciaran. It's Ken. It's all those who are hurt by Peter's reckless actions. It broke my heart to see Leanne so distraught, heartbroken. And then I remembered little Simon. That was when I suddenly realised this was not just a case of alcoholism, but of potential child neglect and family disownment...and I'd expect nothing less from 'Coronation Street'!

I must give an enormous amount of praise to the wonderful Chris Gascoyne though. This is naturally not going to be an easy storyline to tackle, but he is doing such a fantastic job at portraying the problem, as I am sure he will continue to do. Peter's problem is most certainly likely to cause a stir across the street, my heart pounding as I wait to find out what happens. Only time will tell as the story unravels itself, and I expect nothing but great things from the soap!

Amy x

Interview with Nick Bakay

2010-02-04T13:19:00.000-08:00

Salem Saberhagen. One of the most infamous talking cats on television. A cat that I love with all my heart. And now I've had the chance to communicate with the very man behind said cat. Meet Nick Bakay...

Me: What made you decide to follow a career in media?
Nick: Well, I started out believe it or not training to be a terribly serious young actor, Hamlet and all that stuff, and that's what I did for a few years filled with struggle and humiliation -- writing comedy and making fun of things quickly became a riper avenue and I was happy to deviate from the path.

Me: You write for ESPN - have you always been passionate about sports?
Nick: Absolutely, I grew up in Buffalo, New York, which is a tough little industrial town on the shores of Lake Eerie, where we take our football and hockey very seriously. It is woven deeply into the local identity, and I credit those roots for the point of view that fuels my sports writing and editorials to this day.

Me: You also write a lot of comedy scripts; where do you find ideas for material?
Nick: The best ideas come from life, the second best come from running your life through the magic of the question "What if?" Case in point, I absolutely worked as a Security Guard back in the day, but I never had to defend an entire mall from a hostile take over, as Paul Blart did.

Me: You were very hands on with 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch', providing both the voice of Salem and contributing to the script. Which did you prefer?
Nick: Well, truth be told, writing is fun for a while, but the endless rewriting and notes process often reduce it to a grind. It can be like working as an accountant at tax season. The acting and voice work is much more fun -- you are essentially asked to play for a living -- how bad can that be?

Me: Not bad at all! Are you still recognized as the voice of Salem?
Nick: More than I would have expected, especially after all these years -- all our little girls have grown up.

Me: What are your highlights from your time on Sabrina'?
Nick: Being able to create Salem as a writer, and control the performance as an actor, was to this day the most fun ever -- I am so thrilled that he became such a popular character. I am proud of the show because we set out to make a real family show that wouldn't create awkward moments for kids and parents, yet hopefully entertained both -- and I think we pulled it off.

Me: Salem will always be a loved character! Although it is not something Hartbreak are planning on doing, would you want to return for a one-off special episode if ever it arose?
Nick: Absolutely -- it would be a blast to break out a little Salem crying for old times sake

Me: Something we would all love to hear again! You are incredibly versatile; you write, you provide voice overs, you act, commentate and entertain! Which of your roles would you say you prefer?
Nick: That's very flattering. To tell you the truth, at this point the best situations aren't so much about what role I perform, but that I am spending my days with people I love to work with. That's when the work gets easy.

Me: What are your hopes for the future?
Nick: Well, I am working on some more movies that I hope see the light of day -- this October I have a new one with Kevin James coming out called "Zookeeper," which I think people will really enjoy. But I think. like most people in this field, my greatest hope is simply to continue to have opportunities to work and create. It was my dream when I started out, and it hasn't really changed that much.

Me: I am sure you will have lots of opportunities flooding your way! Thanks Nick!

Nick Bakay, ladies and gentlemen!

Amy x

Interview with Lynda Bellingham

2010-02-03T12:47:00.001-08:00

Last April I met one of the kindest people I've ever had the pleasure to be around. Of course, I'm talking about the lovely Lynda Bellingham. She took time out of her busy schedule during the 'Calendar Girls' tour to share all with us...

Me: When did you realise you wanted to follow the route of acting?
Lynda: I wanted to be an actress from the age of thirteen. My first public performance semi-pro was as Puck in a 'Midsummer Night's Dream' at the Pendley Shakespeare Festival at Tring in Hertfordshire.

Me: You are a much loved panelist on 'Loose Women' - what do you like best about working on the show?
Lynda: I love the friendship of the other girls and meeting all the guests.

Me: Which fellow panelists are you closest to?
Lynda: Jane McDonald. Carol McGiffin.

Me: You were a delight on 'Strictly Come Dancing'; do you still keep up with the dancing?
Lynda: No, I am ashamed to say I have had no time. But it has helped me when I go to Charity Balls etc because lots of people ask me to dance!

Me: You met your 'Mr Spain' in Spain, do you ever go back to where it all began?
Lynda: We go to Spain whenever we can because we have a villa there. I love it.

Me: This is your second time touring with 'Calendar Girls'. Would you say it is easier this time round as far as 'getting your kit off' is concerned?
Lynda: Yes in a way. I have been helping the other actresses to not feel nervous.

Me: I'd imagine they're very glad to have you around then! You've done a mix of television, film and Theatre, but which would you say you prefer?
Lynda: I love Theatre because it is live - by that makes it more scary. Film is the most fun.

Me: What advice would you give to all the budding actors out there?
Lynda: Keep going at all costs. If you don't believe in yourself you will not survive the knocks. And there are lots of those.

Me: Wise words! And finally, what are your hopes for the future?
Lynda: To keep working and I want to write more books. My autobiography is coming out February 22nd, called 'Lost and Found'.

Well I am certainly looking forward to that! Thank you, Lynda!

Amy x

(Lynda is currently touring the UK with 'Calendar Girls')

Interview with Adam Woodyatt

2010-02-01T13:18:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate enough to have the pleasures of interviewing one of the greatest British actors of all time. You may know him as Ian 'Squeal' Beale, also known as the lovely Adam Woodyatt!

Me: You are one of the few left from the original 1985 cast of 'EastEnders' - when you first started out did you think Ian would still be here today?
Adam: Never thought and still don't look that far ahead, I just look at the end date on my contract.

Me: How well did you think your EastEnders audition initially went?
Adam: Initially I thought it was a case of don't call us we will call you, then they realised I lived so far away and that a recall would be difficult. They got Julia Smith to come and do another audition there and then. I knew then that I had a good chance of getting it.

Me: Over the years you've worked at EastEnders, who would you say you have been most privileged to work with?
Adam: The Crew, The Production teams, basically everyone involved with making it. It is a team effort, without everybody doing there jobs, it doesn't get on screen.

Me: We all love the Beale family, but if you were to be placed in another family on the Square which would you like it to be?
Adam: Masood's.

Me: I imagine life with Zainab would be very eventful! Obviously we never want Ian to leave, he's such a cherished character. Do you think you'd like to stay with the soap right to the very end, or would you want to branch out a bit more with roles?
Adam: What could I do with another role that I don't get to do with Ian, over the course of the year I will get to play a far wider range of emotions in EastEnders than if I was in a one off drama.

Me: As well as television you've also done a bit of theatre work. Is that something you think you could do long term?
Adam: Fitting it around our schedule is difficult but if something was offered that fits with the filming schedule and my other commitments then I would consider it.

Me: What do you like to do in your spare time when you're not at work?
Adam: Support Liverpool FC, go on holiday.

Me: You're such an inspirational actor, is there anybody you look up to?
Adam: Look up to is probably the wrong phrase, I just try and do my job the best I can. Actors that I really like? Steve McFadden, Nitin Ganatra, Jake Wood.

Me: What advice would you give to all those budding actors out there?
Adam: Get an education or a skill that you can fall back on if it doesn't work out. Listen and react, know what your character thinks of the people he is with or referring to, where he has been. If you know where he is going (storywise) you will have a journey to follow and can pace the development of the character in that situation but remember we only have an idea where we are going in the real world, we don't know the future. That is why we never used to get told the future storylines so that we wouldn't "sign post" with our performance what was coming as a surprise.

Me: And finally, do you have any hopes for the future?
Adam: Good health!

A huge thank you, Adam!

Amy x

Secret Diary of a Call Girl Series 3

2010-01-28T14:29:00.000-08:00

Five years now Billie Piper has been a huge part of my life. You could say she has been my life. She sparked my love for 'Doctor Who', and the period dramas she brought us following on were something I fell heavily in love with. Though Piper's most 'moving' project following her departure from the beloved sci-fi show is by far 'Secret Diary of a Call Girl'; the intimate adventures of London Call girl Belle De Jour. Series one was a godsend, and the second was all the more delightful. So when series three finally aired this evening, I was beyond ecstatic. But was it going to deliver?

A few years after it all began and our Belle is now a best-selling author, in secretive of course. Her adventures in London continue, with a queue of client fantasies waiting to be fulfilled. As we could expect though it is not all as straight forward as Belle would like. Intertwined with her whoring preparations Hannah now has to deal with the interference of her curious sister Jackie, as well as the pressures to write a second book and the sly remarks from those cursed with jealousy. It may only the beginning, but already life for Belle is heating up!

As with the previous series', we are presented with not only a wonderful plot to keep us engaged but also a fantastic cast. Of course we have Billie, who is an utter delight (and I must add, looks fantastic post-baby!). We still have Ben too, again portrayed by Iddo Goldberg. There was a specific scene where for a moment I saw a mirror image of David Tennant in him, which was quite a shock to say the least. Goldberg is a charming actor, definitely well suited to the role. I was delighted to see Bambi was still as important as ever, another fantastic performance from the lovely Ashley Madekwe. Though we also have Jackie now as well, who although we'd seen her in glimpses we truly get to unravel the character now. Portrayed by Joanne Bobin, this is one character I look forward to seeing more of!

There's clearly a fantastic team of script writers behind the show. The language is quite strong, but is in a context such that it is not too vulgar or offensive, and feels part of natural conversation. There's a touch of humor to the show too, with one particular conversation which went as follows:

Bambi:"Is it because I'm common? Is it because I'm Black?"
Belle:No is because you're a whore you muppet!

It's so basic but so clever. And the second that caught my attention was when Belle simply claims, "Get out of my sister! It really is a wonderfully scripted show, award worthy alone for its charming use of language.

So we're two episodes into the series and so far there's not a scratch of negativity or flaw. It had been said that this series was going to be more raunchy that before, however so far I see no sign of this. Nonetheless, knowing Belle she is likely to have a few surprises up her sleeve for us in the upcoming episodes. Needless to say it is not for the faint hearted or easily offended, but if you don't mind a bit of whore then this is one that you cannot let pass by. Billie has done a fantastic job yet again with capturing our attention and I for one cannot wait for the rest of the series!

Amy x

Mock the Week Series 8

2010-01-28T14:27:00.000-08:00

(Written 21/1/2010)

Over the last year or so I have become a massive fan of 'Mock the Week'. The show, presented by Dara O'Briain, is one of the greatest comedy shows around. It never fails to entertain me with its exciteful topics and witty panelists. I've had just enough time to catch up with as much of the previous series' as I could, when I was alerted that Series 8 was soon to begin. And just a few weeks after finding out the news, the new series finally began! But there was one change that was apparent from the word go...

The lack of Frankie Boyle. When he had announced that the previous series was his last, a cloud of devastation cast over all fans of the show. He was such an asset to the show and nobody really knew how it was going to turn out. Thankfully there was no noticeable changes to the set, and the lovely Dara was still in the anchor chair. We still had the gorgeous Russell Howard too; thank goodness for that, I wouldn't be able to cope otherwise, as well as Andy Parsons and Hugh Dennis. They were joined by Milton Jones, Patrick Kielty and Mark Watson. Now Mark Watson is amazing, so I was thrilled about that, but I had no idea who the other two were. I was hoping I was about to be introduced to two new comedy loves, but was this going to be the case?

As I had expected, the comedians I was already familiar with brought me nothing but delight, however I was not too impressed with Kielty and Jones. Milton Jones scares me incredibly, though I cannot actually work out what it is about him that makes me shiver. Whilst what Patrick Kielty was saying was funny, I had heard it all before, and I cannot be sure that I have heard it all through him before either! They were a bit of a letdown, but thankfully the positives outweighed the negatives. The jokes and lines given by Russell stood out quite a bit, especially the one he conducted about Frankie and a line about Kerry Katona, which alone is something to watch the show for! I shan't spoil it, but I can promise that you will laugh!

The show itself ran smoothly as usual with the usual format of scripting to videos and 'Unlikely Things to Hear', and the half hour show was generally a delight to watch. Yes, it is a little different without Frankie but it's not too much of a disaster and it still holds humour as hoped! There are six episodes in total throughout the series, each one aired on Thursday at 9pm on BBC2. It is definitely worth making an effort to watch, whether as it airs or on iPlayer at a later time. I believe Sarah Millican is going to be on the show next week which is definitely something worth tuning in for! An all round brilliant start to a series; I cannot wait for the rest!

Amy x

National Television Awards 2010

2010-01-28T14:26:00.000-08:00

(Written 21/1/2010)

What do you get if you take a large room, fill it with famous 'telly' people, add some sparkly frocks and line up a bunch of shiny awards? Why, it's the National Television Awards of course! And this year brought us another evening filled with tears of joy and emotion as the nation's most loved shows and celebrities go head to head to find out who truly is the best of the best...

Last night the awards kicked off with a wonderful performance from last year's X Factor winner, 'Joe McElderry'. As much as this was a fantastic way to start the show, it soon became apparent that this ceremony very much had the X-Factor. Not only was it opened by our winner, but it was also hosted by the show's presenter, Dermot O'Leary. And if that wasn't bad enough, we also had a very 'X Factor' style introduction, and to top it off the King of television, Simon Cowell himself was almost sitting on the stage. With the initial stress out of the way, it was time to relax and actually enjoy the awards!

So the first award we were faced with was the 'Best Entertainment Programme'. Dannii Minogue, who officially announced her pregnancy on stage, and Tess Daily presented the award, which was quite nice, with the first win of the evening going to the lovely Ant and Dec. I love those two and they truly did deserve this for their Saturday Night Takeaway!

Following on we saw 'Gavin and Stacey' win Best Comedy Programme and Lacey Turner taking home the title of Best Serial Performance. I was thrilled to bits for Lacey when they announced the winner - 'EastEnders' have tackled Stacey's Bipolar Disorder amazingly, and Lacey has done such a wonderful job with her portrayal that no finer actress could have won that category.

Stephen Fry went on to win the Star Travel Documentary Award for his 'Stephen Fry in America', with Craig Gazey taking home the Best Newcomer award for his portrayal of Graeme in 'Coronation Street'. Again another well deserved award, such a talented actor with amazing comic timing.

Following on from this William Roache and Jack P. Shepherd give us a look at what is to come in the next few months of 'Coronation Street', and my breath was well and truly taken away. There seems to be what can only be described as insanely exciting storylines ahead of us; I am now more excited for 'Corrie' more than ever!

We were next brought the Best Drama Award, and much to my delight the award went to 'Doctor Who'. I was a little disappointed when David left all the talking to Bernard Cribbins, though he is incredibly funny and very lovely so it was not too devastating! After this little treat we were given another - in the form of John and Edward a.k.a Jedward. Singing their new single, 'Under Pressure', they sprang about the stage with more energy than ever and although this added to the X Factor connections it was still a delight and a wonderful way to create a break in the show.

The next category brought to us was Best Factual Programme, and as soon as I heard those words my heart began to leap. I knew exactly how I wanted this one to go, but whether or not I'd be granted my wish I didn't know. 'Loose Women' was going head to head with shows such as 'Come Dine With Me' and 'Top Gear', all of which are amazing. Though it did occur to me that 'Loose Women' have won every award they've been nominated for over the past few years, if I am not mistaken, and I had a feeling tonight was not going to be an exception. Well the second they were announced as the winners, I screamed. I jumped up. And a single tear slid down my cheek as I jumped around with delight. I must apologize to my Twitter followers as I did go slightly insane then, I did get a little overexcited! Well done to my Loosies, you all looked radiant and you well and truly deserve the win!

Then it was time for the Special Recognition which over the years has gone to many greats such as Jamie Oliver, Ant and Dec and Jeremy Clarkson. And this year the award went to the wonderful Stephen Fry. Although I knew very little about his life, in this one evening I learned so much about him and understood instantly what a fantastic character he is. Definitely a brilliant person to be chosen for the award.

We had just three awards left, and there was no surprise that the Talent Show Award went to the 'X Factor'. That went without saying. And then our Best Drama Performance Award went to the gorgeous David Tennant. Needless to say I was positively ecstatic. I got incredibly emotional with his speech, and as soon as they played his final clip in 'Doctor Who', I am not ashamed to admit that I cried. A lot. David is the finest actor to walk this planet and no greater man could have been chosen for the award.

Our last award is possibly the one that people look forward to the most. Yes, I am talking about the Serial Drama Award. It would seem that 'EastEnders' win this more often than not, but this year 'Coronation Street' took the trophy home, beating 'EastEnders', 'Emmerdale' and 'Hollyoaks' also. There has been a lot of negative words said about this win, but I must say that I feel 'Corrie' well and truly deserve it. I feel that the last few months with 'EastEnders' have been all about the Mitchells, and while I do love them, I feel that 'Coronation Street' has given us a much wider view of the show and enlightened us to a greater range of storylines and emotions.

So that's the NTAs down for another year, and we can only hope that we have another year of amazing television to make the awards all the more exciting next year. My fingers are crossed that 'Loose Women' walk away with an award in 2011, but only time will tell. A massive congratulations to all the winners last night, each and every one of them have done fantastically. Maybe one day I will be presenting the show or perhaps even winning an award myself (!) but until then I shall continue to enjoy the event on the box!

Amy x

Tracy Beaker Returns

2010-01-28T14:24:00.000-08:00

(written 9/1/2010)

Sitting in the cinema, I tap my feet along to the music in the trailers. Another cereal advert. I don't mind trailers, I just never seem to pay much attention to them. On this particular day I was more interested in the 3D glasses hanging off my face as I waited to indulge in the festivities of 'A Christmas Carol'. Though when I heard a voice booming through the speakers, I snapped to attention. Is that...? No, it can't be! It is! Dani Harmer giving us the lowdown on her return to Tracy Beaker. Well, I never! It seemed that everybody in the cinema shared a sense of delight with this news. And personally, I could not wait!

As a child, Dani Harmer was very much a huge part of my life. 'Tracy Beaker' is one of the single greatest shows of all time; so brilliantly acted and wonderfully scripted. Of course I was devastated when it finally ended after its four year stint, but the show ended on such a high. I did wonder if bringing the show back was going to be a good idea - it ran the risk of ruining the magic that is Tracy Beaker. Only time would tell. And how slowly that time passed...

Finally that day came on the 9th January 2010 when I would once again be acquainted with a childhood love. But was I going to be filled with the same warm and fuzzy feeling as I was in the years previous? To answer bluntly: yes. But it's not all that simple.

We start off in the Dumping Ground and the children are watching TV. Seems normal? But then we notice Tracy Beaker is on the television, advertising her self-published book - all about her life in the Dumping Ground. It's quite a rosy start, but it was soon to change.

Following on we see Tracy arrested for 'stealing' Cam's credit card to self publish her books. Although the charges are soon dropped, I do feel that this negative opening is not something that should be on children's television. Yes, it highlights morality, but it's not really the style of the show. Nonetheless everything looks up from there. It goes as follows: Tracy bumps into Mike. Tracy visits the Dumping Ground. Tracy gets job at Dumping Ground. Tracy causes chaos.

And that is the one thing that made this so incredibly nostalgic. Had they made Tracy change her ways completely into a goody-two-shoes character, the show would simply not be believable. Yes she has matured slightly, but she is still feisty, she still has her attitude, and yes she still has her temper too! Now twenty years old I worried Tracy might not exactly fit in, but Dani has not actually changed a great deal since the her last series so it does work well.

The opening show was 50 minutes long, which is 20 minutes longer than what the rest of the thirteen episodes are going to be. I feel that having an extended pilot can only be a good thing, as it gave me plenty of time to fully absorb the new atmosphere, the unfamiliar characters. First of all I was surprised to notice just how different the Dumping Ground was. Since this series was filmed in Newcastle, a new location was going to be needed. I was quite shocked at how different they made it look though. It looks very cluttered and slightly 'mature', not at all the colourful attraction I was expecting.

As far as the characters go, I am quite torn between opinion. I like how they have created characters similar to those in past series'. We have Gus, who reminds me of a slightly older version of Peter Ingham (Series 1). Carmen resembles Alice (Series 5) in many ways too. Though I do find the children are all too similar in age; either very young or nearing half-way house age. There is also a lot of children too, some of which are not listed on the official website (www.bbc.co.uk/cbbc/tracybeaker/ - check it out!).

As far as careworkers go, I was not really that impressed with Gina! She is simply too strict for my liking! However, it is a completely different story with Mike! I have adored Mike right from Series 1, and was thrilled to find out he would be returning for this. Connor Byrne is such an amazing actor, this simply would not be the same without him. I would have liked Elaine The Pain and Jenny to have been in this too, so my fingers are crossed that they get a mention further down the line! Also, the lovely Lisa Coleman has brought Cam back for us, which is wonderful. It's great to know that after all these years she and Tracy are still so close.

One thing that I felt was a bit of a let-down is the credits. Series 1-5 had the most spectacular credits with a wonderfully catchy and emotional theme song. We still have the occasional flashes into Tracy's mind where we see a cartoon image appear on screen, but I found it to be less frequent. Maybe I'm splitting hairs here, but I do feel that they could have used an altered version of the old theme tune.

All in all it was a pretty delightful episode! Although I do not feel the characters are as strong as last time, there is still a good mix of personalities in there to help keep plots strong. I have a good feeling about the other episodes to follow, and I can only hope that I am not disappointed! Several times through out I was drawn to tears, and already filled with nostalgia, the little moments seemed more magical. To be completely honest I do not think this show is something that children are going to fall in love with if they are not already fans of Tracy Beaker, but for us big kids who are in need of that trip down memory lane, this is a great way to recapture your childhood, for the Beaker's back!

Interview with Ellie Crisell!

2010-01-25T10:57:00.001-08:00

There are three people in my life who I cherish most with my career. We have Andrea McLean, who is a sensation and such an inspiration. If I am half as successful as she is, I will be ecstatic. We then have two more lovelies who have played possibly the greatest part in shaping who I am. As a child I spent a lot of my time watching 'CBBC', and this brought me two great presenters: Konnie Huq and Ellie Crisell. Both are amazingly admirable professionals and influenced my career greatly, and I was fortunate enough to get in touch with the latter...

Me: You trained in Dance before you went on to study Broadcast Journalism - did you always know this was something you wanted to do?
Ellie: I used to watch Newsround and practise reading the news infront of the mirror as a kid! As I got older I was keen to have some kind of performing career but then felt I'd like to marry my love of reading and writing and curiosity about people with performance - it was either Broadcast Journalism or become a barrister, actually!

Me: Who has been your career inspirations?
Ellie: I grew up with John Craven and Moira Stewart reading the news - I admired both of them but truthfully, my parents have been my biggest influences. My dad is a Professor of Media and my mum is a Judge so there was a lot of media and law chat around our dinner table!

Me: You're worked for newspapers, radio and television - which would you say you prefer?
Ellie: Newspapers, Radio and TV are all enjoyable in different ways. I have loved the newspaper journalists I've come across - they are such fun and so talented. They can have quite a ruthless, cynical streak which I totally admire and a wicked sense of humour.
Radio is much more chilled out than TV, full of nice, friendly people and there is a lot more freedom to be creative.
TV is glamorous and you feel, particularly working in the BBC TV newsroom, that you are really in the centre of things. I love the excitement of live TV - it's a total buzz and it does not feel like work!

Me: You became a childhood idol for many when you became part of the CBBC 'Newsround' team in 2003. What are your highlights from working on the show?
Ellie: Newsround was a wonderful 5 years for me. The team were (and continue to be) enormous fun. I had great friends there and the whole production office had a lot of input into the programme, so you really felt your opinion mattered and you were part of something great. There is an enormous fondness across the nation for Newsround, so it's just a privilege to work for such a treasured programme that, let's face it, performs a unique role. There is no other television news for children and we felt we had an important, valued job to do.

Me: With a child of your own now, do you ever worry what he may be exposed to while watching television?
Ellie: My little boy is nearly two and I let him watch CBeebies, which he loves. I'd hesitate to let him watch anything else at the moment, mainly because of the number of adverts on other channels. But CBeebies is a nice combination of education and fun with no adverts of course, and I don't think it does him any harm to watch a little bit now and again, under my supervision.

Me: Social networking sites are on the increase. How do you feel about having fanpages dedicated to you with titles such as "Ellie Crisell from Newsround Massively Hot" (Facebook)?
Ellie: On the odd occasion I've googled myself I've felt a combination of pride and horror at what I've seen! Of course it's flattering to have fan groups, but there is just as much criticism as praise out there for anyone in the public eye and it's sensible to try and avoid reading too much. When I first got the job my dad said to me - don't believe your own publicity - not the good stuff, not the bad stuff, just keep your feet on the ground and stay true to yourself - and that's what I try and do. All that stuff is just part of the job I do - it's not who I am privately.

Me: Which presenters/broadcasters to you admire now? Anybody you'd like to work alongside?
Ellie: I have enormous admiration for many of the senior broadcasters here at the BBC - there are too many to mention, truthfully. I feel, as a younger member of the team, I have a lot to learn and it's a challenging environment for me. Good to keep on your toes though!

Me: What advice would you give to all the budding Journalists out there?
Ellie: For budding journalists - start reading newspapers/watching news as early as you like - the more you read about the world, the more interesting it becomes. Work hard and expect to continue working hard. Foster an interest in people and world events - after all - news is really just gossip of one sort or another!

Me: What are your hopes for the future?
Ellie: I'd like to become better at what I do and continue to work for the BBC - it's the best known and loved broadcaster in the world and I still get a huge buzz to be working in their newsroom.

Thank you, Ellie!

Amy x

Interview with Alimi Ballard!

2010-01-21T16:18:00.000-08:00

If ever there were a man who could get away with wearing the most outrageous clothing, it is this man. Alimi Ballard is one of the most kind and sweetest people out there, and I've had the pleasure to get to know him better...

Me: Needless to say, you're a wonderful actor – when did you first realise you wanted to follow that career path?
Alimi: I first realized i wanted to follow my DREAM of being an actor at 19. I was working as a barber in The Bronx. I had a customer waiting for me to cut his hair and I got a call for an audition. WAS A BIG DECISION. You can guess what I chose...:)

Me: I wonder if he ever did get his hair cut then! Is there anybody in particular who inspired you?
Alimi: had three MENTORS who were PHENOMENAL. Harry ( R.I.P.), Sefus, Hilda, Byron and Melvada. They all worked at at MINDBUILDERS CREATIVE ARTS CENTER in The Bronx!!( All ROCKSTARS )

Me: You became quite well known especially after you were cast in 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch' as the Quizmaster – what did you like best about your time on the show?
Alimi: I liked working with MELISSA the most. She WAS and STILL is one of the coolest people I know.

Me: It's great to know you've kept in touch! Did you get to keep your very brightly coloured wardrobe?
Alimi: Hahahahahaa...no!! Though I did get a few gold and silver shirts made. SATIN...just awful...:)

Me: They sound lovely! You provided the voice of Falcon in 'The Superhero Squad Show', do you think you'd like to do more voice over roles for animations?
Alimi: I LOOOOOOOVE ANIMATION. I LOOOOVE MARVEL. I have been collecting comics since I was 11. Totally looking forward to doing more.

Me: Your most noted role now is that of David Sinclair in 'Numb3rs'.What is it you like about the character?
Alimi: What I like most about David is that HE IS ONE OF THE GOOD GUYS. There is no MORAL ambiguity with him. He's a ROCK!!! Calm, cool and made of STEEL.

Me: What would be your dream role in any television show or film?
Alimi: DREAM ROLE....WILL SMITH in MEN IN BLACK!! RUSSELL CROWE in GLADIATOR!!!

Me: Although it is not something Hartbreak are planning to do, would you return to 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch' if they were to produce a one-off special episode?
Alimi: ABSOLUTELY. I LOOOVE those guys.

Me: We fans can live in hope! What advice would you give to all the budding actors out there?
Alimi: ANYTHING is POSSIBLE!! Have the COURAGE to FOLLOW your DREAM!!!

Me: What are your hopes for the future?
Alimi: My HOPES/PLANS is to be STARRING in summer action/adventure BLOCKBUSTER. To START shooting this year. PREMIER IN 2011!!!!! Yeah baby!!

In the words of our very own teenage witch, "Isn't he amazing?"

Amy x

Interview with Dee Thresher

2010-01-19T14:16:00.000-08:00

For several years now I've been addicted to Dee Thresher's celebrity fitness DVDs, and finally I am privileged enough to have the pleasure of interviewing her. Enjoy!

Me: How did you first get into fitness and personal training?
Dee: Started going to the gym and doing classes when I was working as a secretary in London, but was dragged there initially by my friend as she fancied the instructor! Became a regular and one day the instructor didn't turn up so I took the class and got the buzz from then.

Me: Have you always been a lover of keep fit and exercise?
Dee: I have danced from a young age but was never good at team sports, so this job was ideal for me.

Me: You've worked with various celebrities to help them lose weight with their own fitness DVDs; which would you say you enjoyed the most?
Dee: I have enjoyed them all and love seeing the results not just from celebs but every day clients.

Me: Are there any celebrities you'd like to reach out to and help?
Dee: None that spring to mind but always open to suggestions!

Me: What is your favourite form of exercise?
Dee: Dance for sure, but love powerful hard exercise that makes you feel great after.

Me: You're a columnist for 'Reveal' magazine - is writing something you think you'd like to do more of?
Dee: For sure, I would like to reach out to all sorts of people hence the TV work I do too.

Me: What would be your top fitness tip?
Dee: Find something you enjoy doing and the you will stick to it.

Me: What are your hopes for the future?
Dee: I would like to do more media work and keep teaching my classes which I love.

A star in many ways, thank you Dee!

Amy x

Interview with Costaki Economopolous

2010-01-14T10:20:00.000-08:00

There's something wonderful about British humor, but it generally falls into similar categories. Though if you stumble upon American comedy, you'll find that it is much more versatile. I first fell in love with American stand-ups thanks to one special person who goes by the name of Caroline Rhea. And it just so happens that Caroline's partner too is a stand up comedian, introducing me to a whole other world of laughter. Meet Costaki Economopolous!

Me: Your comedy career really came to light whilst at University - would you say your studies helped your acts at all?
Costaki: Yes- and actually in graduate school I was a teaching assistant and led the discussion groups and instruction for classes in political science and that helped me with being in front of "an audience."

Me: Did you always know you wanted to go into comedy?
Costaki: Yes, but I didn't think it was really possible, so I prepared to teach American government- my fallback position.

Me: Where do you most like to perform?
Costaki: I love good clubs. A smallish place where folks know to come see good comedy. And theaters where they know me are great too.

Me: What have been your career highlights so far?
Costaki: How about meeting the mother of my child at The Atlanta Punchline? I'ts my old home club and where Care and I met.

Me: Who were your career inspirations?
Costaki: There are a lot. I continue to be inspired and impressed by comics around me all of the time. But nobody influenced me as much as George Carlin.

Me: Where do you find ideas for your acts?
Costaki: Anything that really bugs me is a good place to start.

Me: You now have a little daughter - do you hope she will follow in your footsteps?
Costaki: I hope that kid does whatever she wants. If it's comedy, that's great. But I support her to follow her heart, wherever it leads her.

Me: What advice would you give to budding stars out there?
Costaki: Do the homework. Study the greats. Write. Write some more. Rewrite. Ask questions. Get on stage as much as you can. Drink it all in.

Me: What are your hopes for the future?
Costaki: I'd like more media exposure to help build an audience- especially more stand up on television.

Brilliant!

Thanks, Amy x

Robbie Williams - Reality Killed the Video Star (review)

2010-01-02T12:32:00.000-08:00

Robbie Williams is the creator of some of the most controversy in the world of music. Much like Marmite, he is either loved or loathed. And I must admit that while I do not mind his music too much, I am not exactly fond of him as a person. Arrogant, cocky and audacious are three words that spring to mind. I had never intended on listening to his latest album, but when asked to share my views on 'Reality Killed the Video Star', I realized I had nothing to lose...

With downloads becoming increasingly popular, CD sales are naturally decreasing so it is important for a label to sell the albums with an attractive cover. I must give Mr Williams praise here. Where a lot of artists are going for more 'modern' styles, with unnatural backdrops and bright colours that creates more than an eyesore, this album has something a bit more calm. Robbie is astride a motorbike, resting lethargically on the front, with a dusty plane painted behind him. It's quite peaceful and relaxed, not at all 'in your face'.

Okay so so far I was reasonably impressed, but I had to explore the tracks. Scanning down the song list, I noticed that I knew of just one of the options - not surprising at all. Not knowing what to expect, I set myself up ready to listen, hoping for a pleasant experience...

The first track on the album is 'Morning Sun' - a beautiful title for a song. Much to my surprise, this was equally as peaceful and melodic. It's quite gentle and has such a soothing aura. It turns out that Robbie actually wrote the song as a tribute to the late Michael Jackson. As much as my admiration for both artists is lacking somewhat, that still brought a tear to my eye.

Following this we have something a bit more tempo. 'Bodies' is one of Robbie's latest hits to reach the charts, and I must say it is quite catchy. I'd not really attached to any of his releases since 'Rudebox' in 2006, so I was quite pleased that he had finally released something else. Now I had expected this to be the first track on the album to kick start things off with a bit of bounce, but it's still a great song and having it as the second track is not a bad thing at all!

The pattern begins to flow as we enter another gentle track, with 'You Know Me'. I hate to admit it, but this is one of the most beautiful tracks I've heard in a long time. It's so lovely and warm, and the vocals are so precise. Mr Williams, I am impressed with this one!

'Blasphemy' is our fourth track, yet another slow paced song with a soothing tempo. The lyrics are beautiful and worth paying attention to, rather than just listening to the rhythm with half an ear open. Again, the vocals are delightful and this is certainly another to draw a tear or two.

My mood was starting to lower at this point and I was hoping for something a little more uplifting with the next track. Thankfully, it was spot on. 'Do You Mind' is not so powerful that my body went into shock with the sudden change, but it did have a bit more spring in it that the previous few tracks. Its upbeat tempo was perfect for giving my spirits that little lift they desired, and better still it was an all round good song too!
'Last Day of Disco' approached next. I wasn't sure what to make of it when I first listened. It has quite a techno rhythm to it but the vocals are more gentle than I would have expected. It isn't a bad track as such - it has no significant flaws - it simply is not to my taste. I feel it will grow on me in time though.

Following this we have 'Somewhere'. Now I've found that pretty much every song with the word Somewhere in the title has been very peaceful. While this song is not too paced, its the length that struck me the most. At a little over a minute this isn't a typical song. Though despite its length it does stick with you and has the most beautiful ending.

The eighth track on the album is 'Deceptacon'. When the first word of a track is 'microwave', it is fair that I was quite amused from the beginning. It's another soft song, flowing beautifully with such soothing vocals. Although it is not my favourite song on the album, it is still wonderfully pieced and one certainly worth listening to.

'Starstruck' is our next track, and right on cue it gives us a fairly upbeat tempo. It has quite a bounce to it and although the lyrics are not too catchy, the rhythm makes up for that by far. Not a song I'd buy on its own, but still quite a good track for the album.

The title of the tenth track is a little unusual. 'Difficult for weirdos' had me intrigued straight away, and I was quite surprised at the pace of the song when it began to play too. It is definitely one of the most energetic tracks on the album, a lot more upbeat. Again this is not exactly to my taste but the song itself is not too bad. Though I don't think I'll be listening again to this one in a hurry.

'Superblind' is our second last track, and by this point things start to wind down usually. Thankfully, Robbie does not break the 'rule' with this one. Although it isn't really a catchy song, it still flows wonderfully and is a great one for relaxing to.

Last but not least we come to 'Won't Do That'. It's important that the last track on an album is quite powerful as it is generally the one that gives us our final impression. Thankfully, this one did create an impact. Although it's a little more uptempo than the previous track, it is still quite soothing and most certainly one of the most splendid songs on the album. A great way to end!

Priced at around £10, this is definitely an album worth buying. I've said it before and I'll say it again: I am not a fan of Robbie Williams. Although I still am not keen on himself, I must admit that I do like his music a lot more than before. I think this is partly because I've never really given it the chance, but now that I have sat down and dedicated the time to Mr Williams, I have to admit that I am quite impressed. He is a great artist, I cannot deny that, and maybe in time I will come to love his personalty. Until then though, I shall just gorge in my new found appreciation for his latest album!

Amy x

Doctor Who - End of Time

2010-01-01T12:37:00.000-08:00

Jumping in the Tardis and going back to Christmas Day 2005, I discovered a television show that was about to change my life. Doctor Who, Christmas Special, The Christmas Invasion. David Tennant and Billie Piper. It was all new to me. I had missed an entire series, the show passing me by for months. Until it finally crossed my path, ready to become the most important thing in my life.

I finally caught up on the first series of the show, and began gorging on episodes day after day until I knew the scripts word for word. Then I brought myself back to the present ready to enjoy series 2. So much wonder, so much delight. And then Doomsday struck.

Seeing Billie leave Doctor Who was one of the most heart aching things on television. she had become, and still is, one of the most important people in my life with so much say over what I do. I couldn't believe it. Nonetheless I carried on watching the show albeit with difficulty, and powered through another two series'.

And then the news that would top all news was broken. David Tennant announced his departure. How could this be? He was the man who introduced me to the show, the man who I adored over for many years. And he was leaving the single show that had transformed my life, my opinion, my personality. How would I cope?

During the run up to the show I tried to prepare myself for the departure as best as I could. I'd found out that both Billie and Camille Coduri would be returning to the final episode, and this did give me a glimpse of excitement. Only time would tell how I was going to react...

As the episode started, my heart was racing. I knew exactly what was coming - I knew the verdict - but I didn't know how it was going to develop. Seeing Christopher Eccleston regenerate into Tennant was not too distressful - because I fell in love with Tennant first it was like I was losing one thing to get something better. But with this, I wasn't sure how I was going to react to Matt Smith. There had been a lot of controversy when it was first announced that he was going to be playing the 11th Doctor. I personally was worried. Although he has been in a lot of shows with Billie, and his acting skills are wonderful, I just wasn't sure if he was going to suit the role of the Doctor.

Finally the episode got underway, and I'd just like to point out my new found love for Bernard Cribbins. Wilfred Mott was a character I fell in love with straight away when we were introduced to him back in Series 4, but never did I think I would have such a level of affection for him. I do wish Catherine Tate was in it more than she was, but I'm thrilled she was still there. As for the Master, well that's a whole different story...

I was never fond of the Master. I knew we hadn't seen the last of him at the end of Series 3, but I never thought he'd be involved in Tennant's last episodes. To be fair, I think his part in it all was a bit rocky. Throughout both the Christmas episode and the final, he was played out to be the central character aside the Doctor. Having nearly every human in the universe as a version of himself was a big deal for a while. Then the Timelords storm in and reverse this. Guns are pointed. The Timelords and The Master disappear. I think the Doctor should have grieved a bit more than he did. Deep down I am thrilled - if Tennant expressed any more emotion I may just have died. But as far as the quality of the episode, I think they could have made a bigger deal of the Master's departure.

Even though the end was drawing closer, as soon as the Doctor went to get his 'reward', my face lit up slightly. When all the wonderful characters came back at the end of Series 4, I was ecstatic. And now, they were all back again. Billie, Camille, Freema Agyeman, Noel Clarke, Elisabeth Sladen, John Barrowman...and all the aliens. The music intertwining was taken from series past. Emotions ran high. It was amazing. When the Doctor came face to face with Rose it did take me a while to realize that it was in the past, and I thank you Doctor Who for this. Had it been present day and the Doctor had to face Rose and tell her he was dying, I wouldn't have been able to cope. Thank you.

The tears streaming down my face and my heart still racing, the infamous regeneration takes place and we say goodbye to the gorgeous David Tennant, and come face to face with Matt Smith. Our new Doctor. In the short few moments we saw him, I actually had to blink a few times to make sure it was him. He sounded like Tennant, he looked like Tennant. But he wasn't Tennant. I'll admit his few few moments were good, and he may just excel, but he will never be David. He can never be David. Our Tenth Doctor is dead, and in many ways so are all the characters from the first four series'. The Doctor cannot interact with them in the same way. So it is time to take that blank canvas and star afresh. The memories will always be there, the most cherished things I possess, but it is time to look at the show in a new light.

Not as a life any more, but a past time.

Amy x

Michelle Beaudoin interview

2010-01-01T04:27:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year everybody! I could not be more delighted with my first interview of 2010. Casting my mind back all those years ago I never once imagined I'd be contacting the lovely Jenny Kelley, Sabrina's first friend in Westbridge... Yes, it's the lovely Michelle Beaudoin!

Me: You've been an established actress for around 17 years, yes? What would you say initially made you want to go down the acting route?
Michelle: Initially, seeing my first play gave me the acting bug and then high school drama class where I found I actually excelled at it and had a great time. My teacher sent me on an audition to host an educational series and I got the part. It was my first union job. After I graduated I thought I would move to Vancouver and try the business for a year before heading to University.

Me: So who have been your career inspirations?
Michelle: Gosh, anyone who keeps getting out there and playing incredible roles. Meryl Streep, Helen Mirren... the list could go on and on and on.

Me: Now, you were nominated for a Gemini Award for your portrayal of Penny Foster in 'Madison'. Would you say that role played a big part in building your career?
Michelle: Yes, being a part of that series was a big boost to my career.

Me: In 1996 you were cast as Marnie in the 'Sabrina the Teenage Witch' film - what is your own opinion on the supernatural?
Michelle: The supernatural is a fun concept. I'm open to experiencing more of it but so far most of what I've seen seems to be smoke and mirrors.

Me: An open mind can only be a good thing! When you went on to star in the series by the same name, playing Sabrina's friend Jenny Kelley, did you ever think the show would be as successful as it turned out to be?
Michelle: No, I didn't foresee the huge success it became. I know it was a huge hit over in the UK and Germany.

Me: Ah yes, still a much loved show here in the UK! Something many people ask though - what happened to Jenny? She just disappeared after the first series, and we're all pretty sure it doesn't have anything to do with magic gone wrong...
Michelle: Ha ha. You know that's something that has puzzled me too. I was told at the end of the first hiatus that they weren't bringing Jenny back. I was told by my agent that they wanted to have an 'ethnic' friend but in the end they had 'Valerie' who was hardly 'ethnic' so who knows... The mysteries of magic...

Me: An ethnic friend? I'm not sure Valerie quite fitted that, no! As much as we all loved Valerie, it would have been great to see Jenny back. Although it is not something that Hartbreak are keen on doing, would you ever return for a special Sabrina' episode if it were put on the table?
Michelle: Yes, absolutely. I'm sure it would be fun and might bring some 'closure' to the Jenny character.

Me: As well as television, you've also done film and theatre acting - which would you say you prefer the most?
Michelle: I like them all for different reasons. Television for it's possibility of longevity. Film for the creative process, gypsy feeling and the big screen. Theatre for it's oneness with the story and the audience.

Me: What advice would you give to all the budding actors out there?
Michelle: If you must, do it. Anywhere you can. If you can be happy doing something else, do that.

Me: And finally, do you have any hopes for the future?
Michelle: Oh yes, I hope there will be world peace and food and water for everybody.

Thanks Michelle!

Amy x

Coleen Nolan - 'Let's Get Physical' (review)

2009-12-30T05:56:00.001-08:00

Coleen Nolan has been one of key people in my life for nearly three years, and coinciding with my love for fitness comes my passion for Coleen's workout DVDs. Her first was a success, and her second was even greater. So when I heard she was releasing a third, to say I was ecstatic would be an understatement. The first DVD was very much a cardio workout, and the second was a bit more of a dance routine. I did wonder what 'Let's Get Physical' was going to be, and it turned out to be a complete dance workout. 80s style.

The first thing that will draw you to the DVD is of course the cover. A lot of effort has gone into this, with the colours in bright neon pinks and purples. Then as you would expect, you have a picture of Coleen, as if stuck onto the front. She's dressed in a bright pink leotard with purple leggings and a belt around the waist - very 80s! The smile on her face lights up the whole DVD, a smile that Coleen takes with her everywhere. In a little bubble at the side it says '4 x 20 minute workouts'. This got me thinking; usually exercise DVDs are an hour long and although broken into sections, they connect to one another. Though this one claimed to be four separate routines, taking the length to 80 minutes rather than 60. I was desperate to explore.

Putting the DVD on, I entered the first of four routines. This turned out to be quite energetic, but not overly so that by the end you're sweating. Twenty minutes later and I'd completed a combination of steps, turns and bops. Feeling motivated I carried straight on with the second, which turned out to be twice as lively and introduced box steps and grapevines among others. By the end of that twenty minutes I was beginning to tire a little and went to pause the DVD to get a glass of water. I was quite surprised to find that the DVD would not pause! That is very rare - usually fitness DVDs will allow you to pause the workout so you can grab a drink or take a breather, but not this one. Although I didn't get my glass of water, I wasn't too bothered. Had I paused the workout I may have taken a longer break than needed, but instead I just powered on with the routines.

Entering the third section I found things began to slow down a little. While we were still on our feet for most of it, various stretches were introduced to begin to cool us down. And by the fourth and final twenty minute slot we were cooling down with lunges, push ups and holding onto invisible ropes. Each of the twenty minutes has a warm-up, work out and cool down, though nothing is 'sign posted'. Unlike most, we are not told that we are doing the warm up etc, it all just flows together. And then each section connects together with the first acting as a warm up, the second two as the cardio and aerobic routines, and the final the extended cool down. What I especially like about the fact that it is four lots of twenty is that you do not feel you are doing a longer workout, yet you're increasing the general time by twenty minutes.

Better yet, our trainer does not irritate me! Quite often with fitness DVDs you can see little of the celebrity, with the focus on the obnoxious instructor. Though Deanne Berry (GMTV) was lovely. She laughed and sprung around merrily, with the occasional whoop and screech. Plus, much to Coleen's delight, we have three males at the back complete with toned abs who are there to assist. Needless to say, our flirtatious Coleen had fun with them.

Once you've completed the workout and you're brimming with achievement, you can watch the 'extras'. The first is a Behind-the-Scenes which shows us a little of Coleen's training and the preparations for shooting. The thing I like about this is the fact that since Coleen has already got two other DVDs, it's not your typcical "she weighed this before hand and was so unfit" and "now she's super skinny and energetic". It focuses more on the making of the workout DVD, which to be honest is more interesting. Then you have 'In the Studio', which shows Coleen recording her version of 'Physical'. Now throughout the DVD, both in the workout and on the menus, you'll appropriately hear 'Physical'. I was unaware of this until I watched the extras, but the vocals are actually Coleen's! It just highlights her singing for the strength that it is, and also makes this all the more unique - how many celebrities (Debra Stephenson aside) can say they sing the soundtrack to their workouts?

Not only do we have Coleen's song to move to, but there is also a great range of wonderful and lively 80s tracks from artists such as Dead or Alive, Bananarama and Blondie. Coleen tells us that the idea behind the DVD for her was that it took her back to the time when she was singing with her sisters. Though of course this is not just aimed at those who grew up in and around the 80s. I'm a 90s child and love all the songs that are on here, which makes it more interesting - some DVDs use music that is unknown and it is almost impossible to connect with it.

At around £12 from most good stores, this is a bargain of a DVD. You're likely to pay around that much for a single session at the gym. Why bother when you can work out in the comfort of your own home alongside the lovely Coleen Nolan? It is one you can do and enjoy again and again, and not only are you getting a good workout but you'll laugh too - that's something you'll never be short of when Coleen is around! It is incredibly unique; I've never come across a DVD where so much thought has gone into it, so much detail and individuality. A brilliant fitness DVD without a single flaw, 'Let's Get Physical' is one to get you moving!

Amy x

Jason Manford - Live at the Manchester Apollo (review)

2009-12-29T03:27:00.000-08:00

When I first started watching BBC's Live at the Apollo some months back, I was introduced to a whole new world of comedy. Before, I indulged in sketch shows or sitcoms, but had never ventured into viewing any shows featuring stand up comedy. However, Live at the Apollo quickly became one of centre things in my life - a 'cheer up' show that, thankfully, could be wathed over and over again on BBC iPlayer. The show itself introduced me to many great comedians whom I quickly became very fond of. One of which is Jason Manford.

Jason is probably the finest comedian to come out of Manchester, ever. In fact, if it weren't for Coronation Street, I'd say he would be the finest 'thing' to come out of Manchester. And while I adore Coronation Street, sometimes it's nice to take a break from the stresses of the cobbles and watch something a bit more light hearted to get my Manchester fix. This is where Jason Manford steps in.

Jason has appeared on all sorts of shows, and when he became a team captain on 'As Seen On TV, with the lovely Fern Britton as opposition, my passion for his comedy grew greater. Before long I was 'youtubing' his name on a daily basis, and longing for more Live at the Apollo appearances. Just when I thought all was at a loss as my 'Manford Fix' was becoming scarce, the news was broken that he was releasing a DVD. The world seemed a much brighter place.

I had to wait until Christmas to receive his DVD, 'Jason Manford - Live at the Manchester Apollo', which was quite a few weeks after it was initially released for public purchase. Thankfully though, I can safely say that it was well worth the wait. Now packaging of products is almost as important as the content itself, and this one excels. The main colour of the cover is a luscious sky blue shade, which stands out a mile away and helps you to locate the DVD in stores. Then, below the DVD title, you have a picture of Manford pressing a microphone into his ear. The image itself is quite comic, something that helps identify the nature of the show. Also, Manford used this picture as his Twitter profile image for quite a while (@Jason_Manford) so it is also something his followers could relate to and recognize.

With the thorough inspection of the design complete, there was nothing left to do but explore the show itself. I'd seen clips of the show, and liked what I saw then, so was completely looking forward to watching the entire thing. It lasts for a little over an hour, and this turned out to be a ball of laughs. Manford has a very fluent style, as opposed to those who just go for 'one liners', and the fluent style I prefer. He tells a lot of anecdotes in this which will have you crying with laughter. Some of these you will have heard if you are already a fan of Jason, such as the 'weeing in a bottle' or 'Chief Inspector Williams, Greater Manchester Police', but even still they never become less amusing. He tells them in a slightly different way too so not to lose the magic. Though there are lots of new tales for you to enjoy too, making the show a bundle of surprises.

What I love about this especially is the level of interaction with the audience. If I remember correctly, the first people Manford 'picks on' are two young lads in the front row wearing hoodies. Now unlike most audience members, the enthusiasm in these two boys was rather flat. Nonetheless, Manford handles this well and continued with the banter as best as possible, despite the almost-silence in these two boys. The rest of the audience interaction though went wonderfully, and I don't want to give much away, but there is a hilarious moment where a man talks about being mugged for his walkman. Given that this is the 21st Century and walkmans are considered a thing of the past, I cannot blame Manford or the audience for their outburst of hysterics. The 'mugged' also laughed along too though, making it such a great watch. That is just one of the hilarious audience moments you'll find, with so much more to add.

Once you've finished watching the show itself, you can select the extras at the end, which include Manford being interviewed by his brother, Manford interviewing the Manchester City mascot, and also a Behind-the-Scenes of the show itself too which is a delight to watch. Although these extras are not a necessity, they are still wonderful to have on there and make the DVD all the more thrilling.

Now this has a certificate of 15, which I would say is quite reasonable. There are a few moments where the language is quite strong, but nothing offensive. At around £10 from all good stores, this is a bargain of a price and well worth all the hours of laughter you can extract from this. My admiration for Jason has been taken to a whole new level for this, and it is simply encouraging me to see him live at some point (though I'll have to be quick, he sells out sharp!). Whether you are already a fan of Jason's or are looking to discover him for the first time, this is an absolutely fantastic DVD that will not disappoint.

Amy x

JLS - JLS (review)

2009-12-20T10:02:00.000-08:00

I've always adored the X Factor - it's the whole 'Simon Cowell Factor' - though with 2008's shows I never really took to any of the acts. And then when all the obsessive little girls started to commercialize JLS with their slogan jumpers and jewelery merchandise, I seemed to quickly lose any potential interest I had in JLS. Though when they released 'Everybody in Love', my opinion on the group changed quite dramatically. I went from loathing their existence to actually being quite fond of them just because of that single song. When asked to review 'JLS', their 2009 album, I simply thought, 'What they hey, it may just even change my opinion on them entirely!'. But was it going to succeed?

The artwork for this album is incredibly eye catching. Although it is very basic, it is also extremely powerful. You have a greyscale image of the four boys against a plain background, but above them you have the JLS logo in full colour. It does grab your attention - it's not as busy or as 'in your face' as some album covers we see nowadays, and is something to sell the album for sure.

Of course an attractive case is all well, but as the saying goes, 'it's what's on the inside that counts'. It is very important that the first track on an album grabs your attention to keep you listening throughout the rest, and it is safe to say that 'Beat Again' does just that. The song itself, with its glorious upbeat tempo and addictive lyrics, has been out a lot longer than the album itself and whilst I didn't really take to it straight away, I've found that the more I listen to it the more I enjoy it. It's quite a lovable song, and I have to hold my hand up and admit that it is one that I enjoy overly so.

Track two is a personal favourite of mine. 'Everybody in Love' is the very track that began to change my opinion on JLS. From the very first bar, I am hooked to this one and it has my full attention throughout its duration. It has an amazing rhythm that encourages you to move around as much as possible, and although it is quite quick paced it is very light hearted too. I've yet to find somebody who does not like this song, it's such an asset to the album.

Following two successes comes a third, in the form of 'Keep You'. Sometimes I find it hard to adapt myself to new music if I've not heard a song before (I'm probably one of the few who actually prefers covers!). Though I found myself taking to this song almost immediately. The great tempo is continued with this song, and the vocals are amazing too. It is definitely one that I would recommend you listen to.

The fourth track, 'Crazy For You', started off a little more slowly, with the strength within the song building up gradually. It never fully reached as much of a powerful tempo as the previous tracks, but it still held a steady rhythm to it. The vocals are much clearer though and this one is certainly easier to sing along to. Although it is not my favourite on the album, it is still an enjoyment.

'Heal this Heartbreak' is a track that confuses me slightly. Whilst I like it, it doesn't seem to stick in my mind. As soon as the song finishes, I have to listen again to be able to recall it's steady paced tempo and reasonably strong lyrics. It's one of those songs that are catchy whilst playing, but you wouldn't request it for radio play. It's definitely worth a listen but not one you should expect to fall in love with.

Our next track, 'Close to You', takes a new direction. It reminds me incredibly of bands such as Westlife or Boyzone with its gentle beat and soft vocals. I think some JLS fans may not like this one as it is quite a big step away from their usual hits, but it suits my tastes perfectly. It's so loving and caring, and I thank JLS for putting this one here to break the album up.

After a relaxing song, our spirits are raised again with track seven. 'Only Tonight' takes us back to the more traditional upbeat style. Okay so it's not much of a dance track, but it still provides you with a little bit more motivation with the previous. The lyrics stick with you more also - a thorough enjoyment!

Track eight is incredibly peculiar. 'One Shot' mixes a clubland-style tempo with gentle vocals before giving us something powerful all round. It's probably the most 'tencho' song on the album (but anything stronger than The Beatles is techno to me!). It is a catchy song and well sung, it's simply not my favourite.
'Private' was a song that I fell in love with almost instantly, the reason being I cannot place my finger upon exactly. Parts of it sound like 'Rock DJ', a song that I am shamefully fond of. The vocals are much stronger and attractive than the rhythm here, and I like that. It's very beautifully song, to say the least. Definitely one worth listening to.

With less than half the album to go, we head to 'Don't Go'. Although it does not have too powerful a rhythm compared to some, it is still quite a nice song and one I would happily listen to. Though again it is not one of those I'd go out of my way to listen to. But in all it is quite pleasant!

When a song begins with vocals, I find that I tend to dislike it more. I've never worked out why, but I prefer that tinkling of melody to introduce us. And 'Only Making Love' is no exception. Now I am not saying I dislike the track, I simply do not like it as much as others on the album. It's tempo is quite basic and the vocals are not overly impressive. I can listen to it, but would choose not to.

'Kickstart' is our second last track. It's certainly quite an exciting and upbeat song that is sure to make you move, if only slightly. Though I found it to be quite similar to other songs on the album, as if parts had been taken from various songs and merged together to create the one. I will admit though that it is quite catchy and one I enjoyed listening to the several times that I did.

The last track on the album is just as important as the first as far is impressions are concerned - this is generally the one that sees the album out and imprints the final impression. 'Tightrope' was definitely an option to go for here, but I was quite surprised at how gentle it was. Usually albums finish with an incredibly upbeat song with the exception of ballad albums, but JLS broke this rule. However I am not complaining at all. It is such a beautiful song, sung to perfection with an amazing rhythm. It is incredibly sweet and most certainly a joy to end the album on.

Right, that's it. I hold my hand up. I am a fan of JLS. I'll never be obsessed, but I think I'm going to be more likely to make the effort to listen to them now. This album has certainly won me over, and despite the few weaker tracks, it is build up of nothing but entertainment and quality. At no more than £10 from all major retailers, it is a bargain! Any fan of JLS simply has to buy this, and even if not you need to get your hands on a copy of this album - I promise you will not be disappointed. It will convert you too!

Amy x

Jane McDonald - Jane McDonald (review)

2009-12-19T08:12:00.000-08:00

From the moment I discovered the wonders of 'Loose Women', I fell in love with Jane McDonald's voice. I bought a range of her latest albums, but had yet to listen to some of her older materiel. Though after too long, I've finally bought a few of Jane's more dated albums, one of which is titled simply 'Jane McDonald'.

The cover to this album, first of all, is quite attractive. Jane is sitting on the floor against a gorgeous purple seascape. Her name is written in a luscious purple shade, with a few of the tracks listen below. It's a very basic cover perhaps, but it is still going to capture your attention and looks wonderful. Jane's hair is a bit 'different', but she still looks wonderful!

The CD Itself is home to fourteen tracks. Giving the album a scan, I realized that I had heard of over half of them, but not once had I heard Jane's versions. Excited about unlocking the wonders of the music, I decided to listen there and then. The first track we are faced with on this 1998 album is 'One Moment In Time'. Originally sung by Whitney Houston, this is one of my favourite songs. Often artists can kill a song when producing a cover, but I had every faith that Jane would deliver. And thankfully, she did just that. There is so much power in Jane's voice, it's incredible. And I might just happen to prefer her version of the song to Houston's now!

Next we com to 'The Twelfth of Never', a song that I had not actually heard before. I didn't know what to expect from it, but I turned out to be thrilled. It's not an overly lively track but it has a good rhythm to it that is quite catchy - you'll surely be singing along in no time. It is definitely a wonderful track and one that I am sure to listen to over and over again.

The third track on the album is 'Do You Know The Way To San Jose', again anothr track I wasn't aware of. This one is the most lively at this point, and certainly awakens you. The lyrics are not overly clear, but this is not too important as it is not one that you're likely to adopt to sing. It's a splendid track and one of my favourites!

'You're My World' is our first track, and I was shocked at just how beautifully it was sung. It's quite a slow and melodic song, and as Jane sings you can picture her in your head swaying as she does so, you can hear the emotion in her voice. It's so beautiful and gentle, it's incredible. I'm surprised this has not become one of her better known songs.

The next track is probably one of the more known songs. 'How Do I Live' was originally sung by LeAnn rhymes, and I do adore her version, but I had a feeling Jane was going to allow me to love it in a different way. Thankfully, she did just that. Jane has complete control of the vocals here, the strength in her voice is incredible. I must admit, I prefer Jane's version now - she's taken the song to a whole new leave.

'You Make Me Feel (like a natural woman) is our sixth track, and with the greatness of the album so far, I expected this one to be just as wonderful. Thankfully, it was more than that! The song has quite a steady rhythm to it with a strong beat, and I find that it fits Jane's voice perfectly. It's very gentle and loving, and while I have heard some monotonous covers, Jane's version is simply incredible.

Our seventh track is one that has been circling since the 80s. 'Wind Beneath My Wings' has always been a beautiful track, but when Jane sings it, it is phenomenal. She gives the melody a deeper meaning, and allows the music to sit in the air around you lovingly. I've never been in love with this song until now - Jane has opened my eyes to just how wonderful it is.

Halfway through the album now and everything is perfect. Track eight is one that I have loved for many years. 'Downtown' was originally sung by Petunia Clark, and I had yet to hear Jane's version. I found it to be just as upbeat as the original, and the vocals fitted in perfectly with the rhythm. Jane's version is slightly more choppy, but it works and still sounds brilliant.

Our ninth track is another that I hadn't heard of before so I was relying on Jane to give me a great first impression on the song. It turned out to be quite a slow song, very soft and considerate. It suits Jane's voice wonderfully and creates such a phenomenal atmosphere. I simply cannot believe it has taken me this long to come across this one.

'When I Fall In Love' is quite a peculiar song. It's quite upbeat yet is very soft and gentle at the same time - a combination that never fails to amuse me. It's a song that I knew of slightly but had never fully explored it. The vocals are flawless, and incredibly powerful too. Jane has certainly opened my eyes to this one.

Track eleven is 'I'll Never Love This Way Again', which I had actually heard Jane sing before. It has always been one of my favourite Jane songs, yet I find I listen to it very occasionally. It suits my own voice too, which I find is quite general for Jane's songs, so it is without a doubt going to be come one of my most played tracks very quickly.

Next we are faced with 'Some You Win Some You Lose'. This is another gentle track that gives the air around you such a fantastic softening and relaxing vibe. Although it is not the most powerful of Jane's songs, it is just as memorable and has an amazing rhythm to it. I love singing it too, and it is an all-round amazing song.

The next track is one I've had a stressful relationship with. Whenever you log into Jane's official website music plays in the background. While I love this, 'You Don't Have To Say You Love Me' always plays. Jane sang the song at her concert when I went to see her earlier in the year. Yet, I did not own this song on any of my Jane albums. So I was more than over overjoyed when I discovered it was on here. It's quite a lively song, and the vocals are incredible. Jane has strength, passion and control with this song, and it is without a doubt a favourite of mine.

Last but not least, we come to the final track - "I Will Always Love You". This is a song that seems to be heard all the time, whether it is a professional singer releasing a cover, or a talentless idiot killing the song during an audition on one of Simon Cowell's many TV shows. But thankfully, Jane's version is incredible. The vocals are so strong. At the beginning she sings it acapella, and my entire TV started vibrating because of the power in her vocals. The melody is wonderful and this definitely suits her voice. It's without a doubt the perfect song to end this amazing album with.

This is one of the most flawless albums imaginable. Better still, it has an incredible price tag. For all fourteen songs in an attractive case, you should expect to pay no more than £5 for a copy brand new. It's available from places such as eBay and Amazon.co.uk, and you'll find it occasionally in high street stores too. It is most certainly one to look out for. If you are already a fan of Jane McDonald then you simply must buy this. However if you have not heard Jane's voice before then this is a perfect album to start with. You'll fall in love instantly and I promise you, you'll never look back! This may have been Jane's first album, but it thankfully was not her last! It's phenomenal - incredibly powerful and controlled with a great mix of amazing tracks.

Amy x

Eamonn Holmes interview

2009-12-16T10:52:00.000-08:00

Q+A with one of Britain's finest presenters!

Me: You studied Journalism at University – what made you decide to go down that route?
Eamonn: I was heavily influenced by the Troubles.

Me: Now you joined GMTV in 1993, is that something you'd ever go back to if need be?
Eamonn: In my business you can never say never - I spent the majority of my working life there. If conditions were right , and the viewers wanted it, who knows?

Me: You've been with Ruth for 12 yeas now, how did you first meet?
Eamonn: On a street corner.

Me: Have you set a date for the wedding?
Eamonn: Still in negotiation - nearly there.

Me: Would you like your own show alongside Ruth, as the next 'Richard and Judy'?
Eamonn: Co-presenting is more difficult than single presentation. Co presenting with your other half could lead you to become single ! Maybe.

Me: You've taken part in various game shows including 'All Star Mr and Mrs,' and 'Ant and Dec's Game Show Marathon' – do you think you'd ever take up an offer for a reality TV show such as 'I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here' or 'Celebrity Big Brother'?
Eamonn: That's easy - NO ! Just can't see the circumstances in which I would fel the need. Maybe a reality show of some type - but not those ones.

Me: Your autobiography, 'This is My Life' was released in 2006. Would your ever consider writing a part two'?
Eamonn: Might be getting near that time . People tell me they wanted to read more about me growing up in N. Ireland during the Troubles.

Me: You're such a well respected and admired TV Presenter, who was your career inspiration?
Eamonn: All the people who did it well - the famous anchors like Des Lynam and David Frost.

Me: What advice do you have for anybody wanting to get into the TV industry?
Eamonn: My advice would be "Get a real job".But you may just end up being as lucky as me - I haven't worked in 30 years because this is a dream.

Me: And finally, do you have any hopes for the future?
Eamonn: My only hope is that I can stay working until it suits me to retire - and that's a long way off!

Thanks Eamonn!

Amy x

X Factor 2009

2009-12-13T14:29:00.000-08:00

There's something highly entertaining about watching the X Factor auditions - it gives you the rights to laugh at all the talentless idiots and gaze in amazement at all the wonders. However this year it was not an enjoyable experience. When I heard the auditions across the country were going to be in front of a live audience, I wasn't best pleased, and as I had expected it felt like I was watching 'Britain's Got Talent', another Cowell franchise. So after just the second week I decide to boycott the X Factor until the live heats - that was when the competition was really going to kick in!

Now I feel there have only been a handful of acts that have stood out this year. In fact, I cannot actually name you all of the contestants that were in the final twelve - just a select few that I've actually cared about. First we have Lucie - a wonderful singer an a woman with a great personality. It was quite upsetting to see her leave, and there was a lot of debate floating around as Simon let the public decide to throw her out against 'Jedward'. Though personally I am a Jedward fan! John and Edward amused me right from the start when I saw their live audition, and although I still cannot tell the different between the two, I have nothing but positivity about them. They are incredibly entertaining and despite what certain people may think, they can actually sing! They're talented an charming, and are sure to go far!

Then we have Lloyd Daniels, Danyl Johnson and Jamie 'Afro' Archer. I cannot deny the fact that the three boys can sing, but there is something about each of them that annoys me somewhat. Lloyd to me seems that bit too much immature for the competition and to be honest is not the greatest of singers, and the other two seem too cocky for their own good. The amount of times Jamie was mentioned on episodes of 'Harry Hill's TV Burp' was laughable (much to my amusement of course). When Danyl, the final of the three, went out on the second last week, I was ecstatic with the acts we had left...

...Stacey Solomon, Olly Murs and Joe McElderry. There has been mixed responses regarding Olly - some say he can dance but not sing, others dislike the dancing, it's all meaningless bicker. On a personal note I adore Olly. He's got great charisma and determination, and is not afraid to show emotion either, which I love. Moving on to Stacey, I don't know where to start. From the moment I saw Stacey's audition, I was mesmerized by her voice. From the word 'go', you could tell she had a heart of gold and an amazing, genuine personality. And as the weeks went on, we saw Stacey blossom into a superstar. Almost straight away I knew I wanted Stacey to win the competition, so when she was voted off in third place, I joined her many fans in a state of devastation. However I do not fear, as I have every belief that only great things will come her way now and she will have a very successful career!

And then we have Joe - our X Factor 2009 winner. As a fellow Geordie, I warmed to his voice straight away, and his gorgeous looks came as an extra! He allowed his personality to shine through week after week without getting cocky, and progressed wonderfully with each song. And the look on his face when Dermot announced the winner - it just shows that he too is genuine and not for one moment actually got above himself and expected to win. He is a talented young lad - is he going to go far? Why aye!

I have to agree with Mr Cowell - this has certainly been one of the closest finals we've had. Which of course the judges had to work extra hard in mentoring their acts. For Louis it was likely just a case of sitting back and enjoying the show since his acts had all been voted off, but for Simon, Cheryl and Dannii, the game was on. They all seem to have their own styles and ways of going about things; Dannii - the friend, Cheryl - the emotional touch, Louis - laid back, and Simon - well, he's just Simon! Their ways all seem to work too, which is always going to be a good thing.

So its onwards and upwards for our X Factor finalists, and indeed our X Factor winner, and it won't be long before the auditions start again and the judges begin touring the country. I'd love to audition, just to meet our lovely judges (though I'd rather interview them given the chance!), but I don't think I'm quite up to the humiliation! May X Factor 2010 bring just as many delights, and best of luck to Joe with his release of 'The Climb'!

Amy x

Westlife - Where We Are review

2009-12-12T09:15:00.001-08:00

I've always liked Westlife, though I have never actually gone out and bought one of their albums. And with the recent release of their latest album, 'Where We Are', the case was no different. However a friend of mine who is head over heels in love with Westlife wanted my opinion on the album and, keen to find out what their music was like nowadays, I jumped at the chance, ready and raring to explore.

The cover of the album is quite attractive, a pale sky blue that gives a sense of peace and calm. The four band members are on the front, a distant photo of them all dressed in dark clothes and walking slowly. Again it is all so peaceful and welcoming - definitely a cover that would attract me to the album amongst others. You'll find that Westlife covers are generally black or blue so it does mean that fans know what they are looking for too!

Now the album itself is home to thirteen tracks, of which I couldn't wait to sink my teeth into. Giving their titles a quick scan, they seemed to give off quite a sorrowful and highly emotional style, which can be joyfully expected from Westlife. The first song on the album is 'What About Now'. It is important that the first track gives us an initial wonderful first impression to engage us into listening to the rest of the album. I hadn't actually recognised the song by its title, but as soon as I heard the first few bars I instantly knew it as the boys' single that was released in late October of the same year. It actually peaked at number 2 in both the UK and Irish charts. To be frank, I am not surprised either! This is one of the most amazing songs I've heard in a long time, with a reasonably upbeat chorus and lyrics that infiltrate your mind. Its incredibly melodic and extremely addictive. After this, I couldn't wait to explore the rest of the album!

The second track we face is 'How To Break A Heart'. The title itself suggests that it was going to be quite an aching song, and this is exactly what I found. Though it isn't one of those tear jerking songs that dampen your mood. It still holds a slightly positive tempo with a steady rhythm that surprisingly forces you to tap your feet along in time. It's beautifully sung and one that I will happily listen to time and time again.

Following on from two amazing songs we have 'Leaving'. The four minute track is much more mellow than the previous, and floats divinely in the air around you. The vocals are heavenly - I encourage you to play this song at maximum volume with headphones strapped to your ears so you can feel the power melt your heart! It's one that is sure to draw tears to your eyes in a way only magic can.

A little choked up, we come to 'Shadows' next for a bit of a lift. Whilst this lovely track is still gentle it does have a bit more of a spring to it. It's so powerful, my throat tingles as I refrain myself from singing along. With this song, to close my eyes is to enter a world of bliss and security. It's simply mystical.

So far everything's perfect, and approaching the fifth track I hoped this would live on. 'Talk Me Down' is the second of the delicate songs on the album, a breathtaking piece that will tear your heart. It's so beautifully sung an so gently strokes the atmosphere that it's impossible not to get wrapped up in the rhythm. 'Talk Me Down' is without a doubt a fine song.

'Where We Are' is not only the name of the album, but also the sixth song. Now generally the corresponding song on an album is one of the greatest and most memorable tracks, and with this I must agree. This is a superb, and indeed touching, song that will not leave you once you've listened. The vocals are so strong and hold firm control over all your thoughts. I could not be more wonderful.

The chain of delight continues as we approach 'The Difference'. This is one of the more steady songs, but in no way is it monotonous. It's such a warm song with secretive depth to it, bewitching to say the least. It's fair to say that it's one of my favourite songs on the album, one that I simply love to sing over and over.

'As Love Is My Witness' is another of our mellow tracks, and is quite sorrowful in a loving way. It is so perfectly sung, and it tugs on the heart with passion and delight. A song that makes you sway and close your eyes considerately, it's an amazing piece and a treasure to the album.

Just when I thought things could not get any better, I was introduced to 'Another World'. I was taken away by the peaceful yet powerful song - such a sensational piece that sends a thrill of delight throughout your entire soul. A truly amazing song that helps make the album the delight that it is.

The next track on the album brought more tears to my eyes than I had bargained for, thanks to the soothing rhythm of 'No More Heroes'. There's something so relaxing about the song that seems to force me to let my guard down and release any emotions locked within. It's so magnetic it's astounding. Definitely a delight to put it simply.

It was quite a sad thought when I realized I was approaching the end of the album, as I came to the eleventh track in the form of 'Sound of a Broken Heart'. This one has quite a fast paced tempo, to slot alongside the beating heart. And indeed it certainly has your heart racing! It's a beautifully sung piece, breathtaking in every which way.

Our second last track carries on this reasonable pace, though has much more aching vocals that tug at your heart with force. I was surprised by the fact that it has the ability to make me feel both joyous and broken, the magic created in just four minutes of music. This is one song that sticks by your side and will not leave you in a hurry.

Last but by no means least we have 'I'll See You Again'. As with the first track, it is especially important that this song lives up to all positive expectations, as it is likely to give you the opinions that you will leave the album with. Not only that, but this is also the longest track at just over five minutes. Thankfully, it was just as delightful as the rest. It has quite a steady tempo with gentle vocals that sooth the air and banish all signs of tension. It is completely overwhelming, and a splendid way to end the album.

With not a single ounce of disappointment, it is fair to say that this album is a complete and utter success. Better still, it has a price tag to match! It this current climate buying CDs at our leisure s not always the most practical of ideas, but seeing as this one will only cost you around £7 from all good music stores, it is definitely something to cheer about. Each and every track is beautifully sung with a sensational melody, and is enough to make me want to listen to more Westlife delights. This is just one of their many albums, unique and magical in every way.

Amy x

Jo Joyner 'interview'

2009-12-12T06:03:00.000-08:00

I've been in contact with the lovely Jo Joyner for a good few years now and have received many wonderful replies from the actress. In an attempt to build up my portfolio I requested a snail mail interview with Jo and she granted my wish! I decided not to post the interview online in case it went against Jo's preference, though it came to my attention that she never actually said not to display it online. And having been asked to put it online by a friend as proof of certain information, I decided just to go for it. So Jo my love, if you read this and are not happy - just let me know! ;)

---
Me: You've played Tanya for three years now. When you first joined 'EastEnders' in 2006, did you think Tanya would be such a popular character?
Jo: It is very hard to know how your character is received when you are in the midst of it. But I did think that as a whole family with the girls etc we would be loved.

Me: Tanya's had her share of men on the Square, but who do you think is right for her, if any?
Jo: I think, for better or for worse, Max will always be the one for Tanya. She's a one man woman at the end of the day. I also thin that as a couple they provide the most drama.

Me: On the show you work at Bootys - would you ever like to own your own business if any kind?
Jo: I don't think I'd like to run a business like Bootys - I wouldn't have a clue what I was doing!

Me: How did you feel when you first found out you were pregnant with twins?
Jo: Over the moon. We can't wait to meet them.

Me: Do you have any hopes for the sexes of the babies?
Jo: We just want them to arrive safely and healthy.

Me: Have you been throwing any names around for the babies? Might I suggest Amy for a girl? ;)
Jo: !

Me: When are the babies due?
Jo: The babies are due just before Christmas.

Me: When you return to EastEnders, do you have any hopes for Tanya?
Jo: When I return to EastEnders I'd really like Tanya to be right in the midst of the action as I think she's had quite a year.

Me: Did you have any say in how Tanya exits this year?
Jo: No. We never have any say! I think the writers and storyliners are the best people for the job.

Me: You have a lot of adoring fans! If somebody wants to send you a gift post-birth of the babies, would they be better to do it via EastEnders or your agent?
Jo: I will be on maternity leave for 6 months so I wouldn't send anything as it may not reach me.

Thank you Jo!

She really is a truly wonderful woman! Best of luck to her with the twins (may one be called Amy, boy or girl I don't mind!) and I look forward to seeing Tanya back in May!

Amy x

Sabrina merchandise

2009-12-08T13:51:00.000-08:00

As a child I was a huge fan of Sabrina the Teenage Witch, and now entering adulthood, I am an even bigger fan of the show (sounds impossible, but it's true!). Over the past year or so I've found myself building up my collection of autographs so I thought I'd log what I have and need so far...

HAVE
Season 1 - 4 DVDs
Sabrina the Teenage Witch Movie DVD
PC Brat Attack Game
PS1 A Switch In Time Game
PC Spellbound Game
Talking Salem
Three puzzles
Trading cards
Sticker book
Sabrina's Secrets (all 64 magazines, two specials and all gifts)
Magnets
Sabrina novelizations (all 52)
Salem's Tails (all 15)
Annuals (all 2002-2006)
Magic Handbook
Sabrina's Guide to the Universe
Episode Guide
Animated dollhouse
Melissa Joan Hart autograph
Beth Broderick autograph
Caroline Rhea autograph
Lindsay Sloane autograph
Martin Mull autograph
Nate Richert autograph
Nick Bakay autograph
Soleil Moon Frye autograph
Elisa Donovan autograph
teddy bear

NEED
DVDs seasons 5 - 7
Gameboy Advance Potion Commotion
5 dolls (all available)
Salem tamagotchi
Board game
Electronic handheld game
Magic phone
Magic ball
Ice capades dress
Halloween dress
6 photo books (all)
Salem's guide to life
9 animated DVDs (all)
Animated doll
PC Magical Adventures game
2 Gameboy Colour games
Animated towels
Animated bedding
Animated Salem teddy

---------------------------
It looks like I still have quite a long way to go before I complete my collection!

Amy x

RIP Maggie Jones

2009-12-02T09:27:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post to show my love for dear Maggie Jones who sadly passed away today. Best wishes to her family, friends and colleagues at Coronation Street. It won't be the same without Blanche and her constant moaning! She was a much loved character.

Thinking of you Maggie.

Amy x

ColNo's Iceland advert!

2009-11-30T14:15:00.000-08:00

I am completely obsessed with Coleen and Jason Donovan's Iceland advert, the one where they are at the party and are singing to the tune of 'Well Did You Evah?'. At long last I found it online so I thought I'd learn the lyrics, and now I know them by heart - joy! You can learn them too!

LYRICS:
Coleen
Have you heard the latest news?
We've found the cure for the Winter blues!

(Party!)

Jason
Well did you ever, what a swell party this is!

Coleen
Now have you heard of my friend Dawn?

Jason
Yes, she just slipped off with a platter of prawns!

(No?!)

Jason
Well did you ever!

Party guests)
What a swell party this is!

Coleen
These bagels, they're new!

(smoked salmon!)

Coleen
These duck nests are too!

Child
Quack quack!

Jason
More turkey? Of course! Do you know he eats like a horse!

Girl
You're not kidding!

Small boy
You know what's in these please?

Coleen
They're chocolate coated strawberries!

Small boy
Wow!

Jason
Meringue, Coleen?

Boy
Hey, they look fun!

Coleen
No thanks, Jason! Just have this chocolate one!

All
Well did you ever, what a swellegant, ellegant party this is!

END
-----------------

Don't you just love it? Below is the link to the video if you wish to view it and sing along!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UPKYR4FaKck

For we all love ColNo!

Amy x