Here We Are...with Luci

Chick Flick Chat: "The Bachelor" Episodes 4 AND 5, Season 16

CLICK HERE to listen to the Chick Flick Chat review and discussion of Episode 4 of ABC-TV's Season 16, "The Bachelor" show.

CLICK HERE to listen to the CFC review and discussion of Episode 5.

To be clear... This recurring series by CFC is not a "Bachelor" show promotion! It's about getting to the nitty-gritty of reality TV, and this reality show is the perfect platform for such a discussion. In order to discuss what it all means in terms of relationships, love, marriage, dating, friendship, etc., we do have to review the details of what happens in each show. This includes the good, the bad, and sometimes the ugly behavior that is captured on camera. 

Episode 4: The best way to describe the theme of this episode is "buggy." Between the bugs on a "romantic" canoe ride on a lake in Park City, Utah, the torturous fly-fishing scene, and the "bug" Courtney so masterfully planted in Ben's ear, it's hard to find another word to encompass this week's dating interludes. The drama was set against grandiose, breathtaking scenery that made the quibbling and backstabbing seem even more petty and small-minded. If nothing else, this episode revealed who was a Jedi Master ready for prime-time competition, and who jeopardized her own position due to her struggles with GTTS = Goodie Two-Shoes Syndrome. 

Episode 5: One, two, three strikes you're out! Ben Flajnik and the bachelorettes suit up to play a game of baseball. Their prize? Time with him. The only winning points scored in this episode are the many examples of what "not to do" on a date!

Whether you love it or hate it, it's all open for discussion, so join me to chime in and share your thoughts! Check out the upcoming CFC coverage of Episode #6 on Tuesday, February 7 at 5:30pm EST.

Chick Flick Chat: "The Bachelor" S. 16, Ep. 3

CLICK HERE to listen to the Chick Flick Chat review and discussion of ABC-TV's "The Bachelor" Season 16, Episode 3.

NOTE: If you missed the original explanation regarding this recurring CFC series, check out Episode 1's article for details about why this particular reality show was selected for a recurring series.

Episode 3: The best word to describe what occurred in Episode 3 is "meltdown." The producers got ratings for the bikini clad street skiing, and the 16 remaining contestants got loopy over a new (or used - depending on how you look at it) bachelorette seeking Ben's affection. Neither scenario was pretty, nor entertaining; both were, unfortunately, a downhill slide into the worst of reality television. I'll leave this week's details on this frosty episode for you to hear!

If you haven't listened yet, please do, and if you are following this recurring discussion, let me know your thoughts. The CFC series featuring "The Bachelor" show is about the guts of reality TV, not the glory. Join me to chat live about Episode 4 of The Bachelor next Tuesday, 6:30pm EST. Whether you love it or hate it, it's all open for discussion, so chime in!

➠ A big thank you to Andy Dehnart, TV critic, and publisher of the popular website Reality Blurred, for allowing me to quote his May/June 2011 RealScreen magazine article One (Real) Life To Live.

Chick Flick Chat: "The Bachelor" S. 16, Episode. 2

CLICK HERE to listen to the Chick Flick Chat review and discussion of ABC-TV's "The Bachelor" Season 16, Episode 2.

NOTE: If you missed the info regarding this recurring CFC series, check out Episode 1's article for details.

Episode 2: A week later and the drama heated up quickly this season. This is not surprising since the ratings for the first episode were down by 17%. Perhaps a bit of re-editing was performed before Ep. 2's airdate? In any case, we saw two one-on-one dates with Ben Flajnik, the sweet and playful bachelor. According to "Bachelor" protocol, these were successful dates because he gave both girls, Kacie B., and Courtney, roses at the conclusion of their respective time with him.

We were also treated (or shall I say tortured?) to the fairy-tale group date from hell. I won't go into detail here, but on the show I dish the dirt about the corniest of set-ups ever! This ensemble date, complete with taffeta, sparkles, and forced smiles, would make the toughest of competitors cringe with embarrassment.

When I recorded this week's CFC, I didn't realize that the hostility engendered during the group date extravaganza might actually have resurfaced at the cocktail party. The humiliation suffered by 11 of the 12 girls who didn't receive a rose on the group date - after putting aside their self-esteem - was revisited upon the girl who did get the rose, Blakeley. While there appeared to be "production" driven contrived interaction during the party, the display of anger and jealousy by several of the bachelorettes toward Blakeley was appalling. Call her any name in the book, but she may be the only one who understands this is a competition.

Were you thinking that this CFC series featuring "The Bachelor" show is all roses and candy? Not so much so! Join me to chat live about Episode 3 of The Bachelor next Tuesday, 6:30pm EST. Whether you love it or hate it, share your thoughts!

P.S. Thank you to Henry for calling in to ask a very challenging question on the CFC Ep. 1 show; and to Marie for her insightful comment about Jenna on the CFC Ep. 2 show. I loved hearing from you!

Chick Flick Chat: "The Bachelor" Season 16, Episode 1

CLICK Here to listen to the Chick Flick Chat review and discussion of ABC-TV's "The Bachelor" Season 16, Episode 1.

NOTE: This is a weekly show for the 2012 season of "The Bachelor," which I am hosting solo - please consider calling in to chat with me when the show airs live!*

What the heck is going on with the never-ending search for love on reality shows!? When I first heard the premise for the original show 15 bachelors ago, I was shocked that anyone (aka a producer) could get 25 women together - on television - to tear it up over a man they've never met. While I haven't watched every season, I have run the gamut of emotions from happiness for certain contestants, surprise by the depth of human drama that is displayed, to utter disappointment in how women (and men) will behave in certain circumstances. 

In Episode 1, there is a lot to discuss; the important first impression steps out of the limo, Ben Flajnik's reactions, and the results of the first rose ceremony. Hear my take on who the producers picked to get roses - yes, the producers - it is a TV show after all, and TV shows need conflict in order to get ratings. Sad, but true!

Then we'll do it again next week on this recurring Chick Flick Chat series following every episode of Season 16 to the Final Rose Ceremony. As we go along, we'll dish and dissect the drama, the tears, the joy, the jealousy, the competition, and the emerging love that is propagated by reality dating. Call in to help me to explore what it all means. Is it real? Scripted? Why do people take this route? And more!

Whether you love or hate this show, watch any reality television, hear about it at the water cooler, or see the video clips... The saturation into our lives is here to stay. If you are interested in the human condition and how the images, behavior, and vocabulary in television and film influence our society, then join me live for these chats every Tuesday at 6:30pm EST.

*Here is the link for the upcoming show covering S.16, Episode 2 of "The Bachelor" series.

Chick Flick Chat: "Valentine's Day"

CLICK HERE to listen to the Chick Flick Chat episode featuring the film, "Valentine's Day."

For some people love doesn't exist unless you acknowledge it in front of other people. ~ George Lopez's character in Valentine's Day

Love is love anytime of the year! People celebrate Christmas in July, and we are looking at Valentine's Day in August. Truth be told, this CFC was recorded in March, but it's just making its way to you today. Here's to hoping summer love is in the air!

So many character's... so many issues... We chat about it all in this fun film. This all-star ensemble cast, featuring Ashton Kutcher and Jennifer Garner, share their love trials, triangles, and tribulations stirred up by commercialism, societal pressure, and expectations that drive the Valentine's Day holiday.

Of all the films we've reviewed for CFC, this is definitely the most Chick Flick of all. While it is glossy, it offers some insight into the tangled webs we weave with lovers and friends. Hold on to your candy hearts and your score card as we examine who finds love, looses love, rethinks love AND what it all means!

BONUS: Check out the great relationship advice offered by David Simonsen during the Here We Are Radio Show episode, Successful Relationships: Are They Impossible To Achieve?

 

Chick Flick Chat: "Midnight In Paris"

CLICK HERE to listen to the Chick Flick Chat episode of the film, "Midnight In Paris."

This is the movie of the summer! Whether you are a world traveler or prefer a "staycation," seeing Midnight In Paris will make you feel like you've taken a fabulous trip in the City of Light. This CinderFella theme magically blends the concepts of art imitating life with life imitating art in a journey within a journey. Is it fantasy or reality?

In this film, like so many other Woody Allen projects, nothing is as it seems. Love, dreams, life, and literature, break the barriers of time and logic. Truth and clarity arrive in ways Owen Wilson's character, Gil, never expects; while history plays a part in every moment. In a pivotal scene, Ernest Hemingway shares, "No subject is terrible if the story is true and the prose is clean and honest," setting the tone for our imagination to venture alongside Gil on his quest. And what a good time it turns out to be! {NOTE: EH is played by the talented Corey Stoll - who puts his stamp on the roll in a way that will change how we think of the real EH forever.}

We covered everything in this Chick Flick Chat... from the location shots, historical figures, subtext, to the wardrobe and more before this movie gets to DVD or OnDemand. We just couldn't wait AND neither should you! If you haven't seen it, treat yourself to this movie treat! Offrez-vous ce délice de cinéma!!

Chick Flick Chat: "The Switch"

CLICK HERE to listen to the episode of Chick Flick Chat featuring the movie, The Switch.

Wow! Talk about the mother of all surprises... This film seems like a simple romantic comedy, but it is filled with many modern day issues women encounter. While the title refers to the bombshell that is The Switch, it only skims the surface in this delightful film, starring Jennifer Aniston and Jason Bateman.

This CFC covered everything from motherhood, marriage, men, and single-parenthood, to the ticking biological clock and more. Join us as we discuss, dissect, and dish the details this film swimmingly offers up; even the lines, "Life is in session" and "Fate works its magic and you're connected," helped switch this CFC into overdrive. In fact, there was so much to chat about that we went over our usual thirty minutes so we could fit it all in!

{Production Note: We apologize for the music glitch at the beginning and end of the show... We're working to smooth it out for future CFC's.}

Chick Flick Chat: The Housewives' Reality Shows, Fact, Fiction, or Foolishness?

CLICK HERE to listen to the Here We Are Radio Show spinoff series, Chick Flick Chat featuring, The Housewives' Reality Shows, Fact, Fiction, or Foolishness?.

Hold on to your remote! Luci and co-host, Susan, shake things up with the first Chick Flick Chat focusing on television shows. Whether it's New York or Beverly Hills, we crisscross the nation chatting about the various "Housewives" show obsession. What's behind the proliferation of TV shows featuring this premise? What does it say about our society?

And how about the women who allow the camera into their lives? How much of what goes on is fact, fiction, or tomfoolery? If so, is the joke on the housewives? Perhaps we're the fools for tuning in.

From friendships, bad behavior, and consequences, to labels, cattiness, and loyalty, we chat about a lot of hot topics in this jam packed show. Listen as we examine this phenomenon along with the dirty dishes - ahem - laundry that these shows reveal; and then let us know what you think.

Chick Flick Chat: Eat Pray Love

 CLICK HERE to listen to the Chick Flick Chat featuring the popular movie, "Eat Pray Love."

If only we could all go on a year long adventure to discover our true selves, our passions, our purpose! What would you seek to find? What are you hungry for? Are you ready for a transformation? Whether you are contemplating booking a one-way ticket or can only dream about it, this Chick Flick Chat will give you a lot to chew on.

Co-host, Susan Ragazzo, and I couldn't wait for this much anticipated biopic to be released on DVD. Don't worry if you didn't read the book by Elizabeth Gilbert because CFC only focuses on the film. No matter if you love or hate it, this movie sets the stage for female introspection like no other current film and that makes for a tasty chat!

Julia Roberts learned, "If you want to get to the castle, you've got to swim the moat." From labels, transformation, ruin, soul searching, temptation, and more, this journey offers enough messages to fill any travelers itinerary. While we don't swim any moats, we do dish on the meanings, mantras, and men of Italy, India, and Indonesia in detail. 

Thoughts on Eat Pray Love? Did you read the book? See the movie? Listen and let us know your thoughts... Especially about the ending! 

 

Chick Flick Chat: It's Complicated

CLICK HERE to listen to the Chick Flick Chat episode, "It's Complicated."

This movie, starring Meryl Streep, Alec Baldwin, Steve Martin, and Lake Bell, has more layers than a seven layer cake without the icing on top! Co-host, Susan Ragazzo, and I dish, detail, and dissect the relationships and interconnections that make this film a delightfully complicated view into marriage and divorce.

No matter how you slice it, It's Complicated serves up a provocative look at the past, present, and future after stirring the characters together in life's sticky melting pot. Thrown in with the batter are new wives, old friends, and kids, making for a funny and poignant adult drama.

Tasty questions arise along the way in this film... Who are we in our relationships? Outside of them? Can one ever escape the labels we put on ourselves as women? Is it enough to start something new and move forward or do you first have to heal the past? Do people really change or do their roles change? Are there "right vs. wrong" choices?

Sex, age, men, self-discovery, guilt, confidence, and painful admissions all play a part in this bittersweet plot. Join us to unravel the meanings and search for answers to the many questions this film cooks up.

Chick Flick Chat: It's Oscar Time! Winners, Losers, Movies, & Men

CLICK HERE to listen to the Chick Flick Chat episode, "It's Oscar Time! Winners, Losers, Movies, & Men."

It's time to talk about this year's Oscar winning performances and the female roles that garnered gold for the actresses who brought them to life. In light of The Blind Side surprise Sandra Bullock received (from her booby prize of a husband) after accepting her award, we had to discuss the so called Oscar Curse. Is it real or are these issues bound to happen in life?

This episode of Chick Flick Chat is not a gossip-fest. It is meant to explore the pinnacles and pitfalls of relationships that successful women face, celebrity and non-celebrity alike. Join us as we first dish about the award winners and losers in movies like Precious and Up In The Air. Then we tackle the issues for all women raised when Sandra Bullock, Hillary Swank, Halle Berry, Reese Witherspoon, Kate Winslet, Julia Roberts, live out the real life drama of going from the ultimate high to the deepest of lows. 

Life imitates art for golden girl, Sandra, who earned the most coveted honor in her profession for portraying Leigh Anne Tuohy, a tough, determined, driven woman with grace and nerves of steel; the very qualities Sandra needs to get through this tough time. While we all share in her public heartbreak, what can women in all walks of life learn? Does anyone really ever have your back? And does the so-called "Oscar Curse" send a hidden message to women - making them less inclined to strive for success - because it seems like you can't have your cake and eat it, too?

Listen and let us know what you think.

Chick Flick Chat: "New Moon" Rises and Falls

Please CLICK HERE to listen to the latest Chick Flick Chat featuring, New Moon - The Second Movie in the Twilight Series.

"If a rush of danger is what it takes to see him, then that's what I'll find." ~ Bella Swan, played by Kristen Stewart, in "New Moon"

Teenage daughter? Niece? Granddaughter? Forget whether she is on Team Edward or Team Jacob and realize that this movie undermines her self-esteem. This follow-up radio show to Chick Flick Chat, Twilight - The Movie, chomps down harder on the not so buried message that true love hurts. 

Sorry Twi-hards, this uber-popular movie promotes bad choices, dangerous chances, self-destructive behavior, the "Cinderella Syndrome," and a request for death as romantic antics. Love it or hate it, the movie offers plenty to discuss about how these messages are presented to young girls.

Calling for Comments: Have something to say? Want to join in on the discussion? Which is your favorite movie, "Twilight" or "New Moon"? Comment on this article OR offer your thoughts on ANY article that is open to accept comments. The January gift is a new CD Soundtrack from the film, New Moon. While we take issue with the movie's messages, the music stands alone. Remember to subscribe by email to be eligible, thanks!

Chick Flick Chat: "Revolutionary Road"

"No one forgets the truth...they just get better at lying." ~ Kate Winslet's character, April Wheeler in "Revolutionary Road"

CLICK HERE to listen to Chick Flick Chat featuring the film Revolutionary Road.

Put on your seat belt, this movie takes you on quite a ride! No matter what decade you grew up in, you will recognize issues that are alive and festering today. 

The performances by Kate Winslet and Leonardo DiCaprio are exceptional. Their characters are moving and memorable, supplying us with a lot to chat about. We drive the details of what it all means up one side of the street and back down the other. So buckle up, listen, and share your thoughts.

REMINDER: The "Twilight" Chick Flick Chat secret word contest continues until Dec. 15, 2009. Please listen and email the word for a chance to win a new copy of "Hot Blooded." Click here for all the details...it's easy, fun, and free!

Chick Flick Chat: Twilight - The Movie

Listen for a chance to win a HOT copy of the paranormal anthology "Hot Blooded"

CLICK HERE to listen to the latest Chick Flick Chat featuring, "Twilight - The Movie."

Danger. Love. Attraction. We bit into the messages that are deeper, darker, and beyond the pale in this modern day Romeo and Juliet love story.

In Twilight, forbidden fruit has never been so tempting, or so well disguised. If you are a mother, an aunt, an older sister, or a grandmother of a young girl, this chat dished the less appetizing symbols in this popular film. Join us for this sweet to sticky tasty talk!

The Hot Blooded Giveaway Details:

1. Listen to the show

2. Hear the "secret" word - revealed during the show 

3. Subscribe by entering your email address in the "Free Updates" box in the upper right hand column; then check your inbox for an email from Feedburner, open it and click the link to activate. It is free and we never share your info {if you are already subscribed for updates by email - skip this step}.

4. Email the "secret" word in the subject line [the email link is in the upper left hand corner of every HWA page - see Luci's cartoon face]; you only need to email the secret word once to be entered

5. The contest for the 3 copies of the book will be open until Dec. 15, 2009. 

NOTE: Winners for this giveaway must be in the continental US and 18 years or older please. Read more about our how the HWA Gift Giveaways work.

 

Chick Flick Chat Reminder: Bite Into The "Twilight" Movie

Fangs Out, Fingers Ready...Dial Up A Tasty Talk & Maybe A Treat About "Twilight - The Movie"

It's almost time for Chick Flick Chat. Join us on Sunday, October 25, 6:30pm EST to dig in about the film, Twilight.

You can call 646-929-2473 to chat, go online to the radio show to listen -- it's free & fun {long distance charges may apply}.

Don't be scared if you didn't read the book, the focus of Chick Flick Chat is always on the featured movie.

Speaking of books, we are giving away new copies of the book, Hot Blooded. This steamy paranormal anthology of "sensual predators who come by night" is sure to wet your appetite. Check out the book link to read the first few pages of this walk on the wild side. Be warned, it is hot, hot, hot!

Is your blood pumping? Want to know how to win a copy? It's as easy as licking your lips:

1. Listen to the show, either live or recorded

2. Hear the "secret" word - revealed during the show 

3. Subscribe by entering your email address in the "Free Updates" box in the upper right hand column; then check your inbox for an email from Feedburner, open it and click the link to activate. It is free and we never share your info {if you are already subscribed for updates by email - skip this step}.

4. Email the "secret" word in the subject line [the email link is in the upper left hand corner of every HWA page - see Luci's cartoon face]; you only need to email the secret word once to be entered

5. The contest for the books will be open until Dec. 15, 2009. 

NOTE: Winners for this giveaway must be in the continental US and 18 years or older please. Read more about our how the HWA Gift Giveaways work.

Join us when the sun goes down this Sunday!

Chick Flick Chat: "Julie & Julia"

"Cooking is not a chore; it's a joy!" ~ Julia Child, 1912-2004, Chef, TV Host, Author -- Mastering The Art of French Cooking

Please CLICK HERE to listen to the latest episode of Chick Flick Chat featuring the movie, "Julie & Julia."

We peeled off the layers like an onion with this film! Meryl Streep transforms herself into the famous cooking maven, Julia Child, as smooth as creme brulee. In this Oscar worthy performance, you will forever see her version of this trailblazing, motivated woman.

If you haven't seen it yet, I highly recommend it. It is an interesting approach to the life and times of Julia Child, focusing on her long lasting impact on other women, society, and how we look at food. While this sounds very serious, you do leave the theater smiling!

Bon appetit!

An Invitation: Join Us On "Chick Flick Chat"

"JULIE & JULIA"

You are invited to join Chick Flick Chat, the Here We Are Radio Series on Sunday, August 23, at 6:30pm EST, to dish, detail, and discuss this film.

Chat with us live about the recently released film, Julie & Julia, starring Meryl Streep and Amy Adams.  NOTE: You do not have to "sign in" to Blog Talk Radio to listen - just go to the radio show page and hit the widget's arrow to listen on-line. Not near your computer? Then dial (646)-929-2473 and listen by phone - to chat with us, use the same call-in number and PRESS #1! It's easy!

Chick Flick Chat: "He's Just Not That Into You"

CLICK HERE to Listen to the Chick Flick Chat Radio Show featuring the movie, "He's Just Not That Into You."

What do Jennifer Anniston, Drew Barrymore, Ginnifer Goodwin, Scarlett Johannson, and Jennifer Connelly have in common? Terrific and telling performances in the movie, "He's Just Not That Into You." Explore the women's roles in this popular film with Luci and co-host, Susan, in this episode of Here We Are's spin-off radio show, Chick Flick Chat. Warning: we really picked this one apart! Enjoy!

Did you see this film? What are your thoughts on the performances? Relationships? Emotional twists and turns?

Chick Flick Chat: Postponed Until 7/24

Quick Update:

Tonight's episode of  "Chick Flick Chat"  is rescheduled for next Friday, July 24, at 6:30pm EST. The selected movie for this chat is, "He's Just Not That Into You," starring Jennifer Aniston, Drew Barrymore, Gennifer Goodwin, Scarlett Johansson, and Jennifer Connelly. If you haven't seen it, now is the time to view it OnDemand or rent the DVD.

Listen live and call in (646) 929-2473 to share your thoughts on this fascinating look at dating, love, friendship, marriage, and more! NOTE: You don't have to "sign in" to Blog Talk Radio to call in and/or listen live at www.BlogTalkRadio.com/Here-We-Are.

Summer Reading: What's In Your Beach Bag?

FEATURED ARTICLE OF THE MONTH: Comment On Here We Are For A Chance To Win A Signed Hardcover Copy of Lisa Scottoline's Latest Best Selling Book, "Look Again"

It is time to pick up that book that has been waiting for you since the cold days of winter. There is no better place than in a beach chair to turn the pages of an intriguing thriller, a victorian romance, or the current chick lit. Whatever your pleasure, indulge yourself!

Tell us what you are reading, going to read, want to read...I just finished my summer catch-up reading of James Patterson's books: Sail, Cross Country, Mary Mary, and Judge & Jury. If you like a thriller then I recommend any and all four. Warning: Each has its own brand of Patterson violence but the suspense is worth the gore.

As for the vampire trilogy that is o' so popular. I am finally giving myself over to it. There is a copy of Twilight at the top of my "to read" stack, along with two more Patterson books, Cross and Double Cross. Okay, this is beginning to sound like an obsession but I just love the Alex Cross story-lines. 

This latest book by Lisa Scottoline looks to be another page turner in her long line of heart pounding plots. Lisa has managed to sell over 25 million copies of her books while raising a daughter as a single Mom! No easy feat, but her readers are glad she discovered her passion for writing. Check out the video trailer or read the first chapter of "Look Again" here.

How to win the July Gift Giveaway of "Look Again" -

1. You must be a Here We Are email subscriber (more info here)
2. Tell us in the comments section what you are reading or recommend a book you've read
3. Comments published on any and all July entries will count - so if you are not currently up on the latest best seller, jump in on another conversation and share your thoughts!

NOTE: Comments are moderated, so you won't see them immediately upon submission. As long as they fall under our policy, they are published ASAP, and I do not reveal email addresses - ever!

Not sure what to comment about? Check out the popular comment thread answering Bionic Beauty's question, "What are you reading?" Jami, the Bionic Beauty, inspired this entry. The girls that commented at Bionic Beauty are responsible for me going over to the dark side...I want in on the vampire action, too!

So here's to your toes in the sand and nose in the book...remember to comment! The next book in your beach bag could be "Look Again."

"Chick" Flick Chat: "Rachel Getting Married"

CLICK here to listen to Chick Flick Chat (a new spin-off show from the Here We Are Radio Show) featuring the movie, "Rachel Getting Married."

Like to discuss movies but no time to see the latest theater releases? No worries. This new radio show series features movies already on DVD and On-Demand... And the occasional "hot" movie that we can't wait to see! We will be selecting from a variety of genres, but the discussion is focused on the women's roles and the roles they play in that film.

So whether you like comedy, drama, action, or thriller movies...join Luci and her Chick Flick Chat co-host, Susan, a film and pop culture enthusiast, to chat about everything from the acting to relationships, wardrobe, and more. 

Come chat with us...At the beginning of each month, the selected "movie" will be announced in the "Announcements, Updates, & Reminders" entry (first entry of every month) along with the scheduled date of the radio show. You are invited to call in (details to follow) to share your thoughts and impressions. We'd love to hear from you!

Check out the first episode of Here We Are's Chick Flick Chat featuring "Rachel Getting Married," starring Anne Hathaway. You can listen to the full episode by clicking the link next to the picture above or visit our Here We Are "station" page at Blog Talk Radio.

NOTE 1: We are working on the opening music, we know a minute is too long.

NOTE 2: Since this was the first show of this series, there are no call-ins on this episode, but we look forward to hearing from you on our July show!

If you've seen this film, share your thoughts in our comments section. Love it, hate it...tell us what you think!

Text Message Abbreviations: Now You Know Your ABCs for TXTs

Part 2: Letters N - Z

Here are the rest of the text message abbreviations. Oops, I mean TXT MSSG ABBRV's. JIC U missed it, this continues from Part 1 of the Here We Are entry, Text Message Abbreviations: Let Your Fingers Do The Talking.

BTW, DIS that the "caps" are for emphasis (HWA is not shouting @ U):

MOS = Mom/Mother over shoulder [I finally found one that starts with "M"]

NIMBY = Not in my backyard

NMU = Not much, you?

NP = No problem

NRN = No response necessary

NS = No sweat

NT = No thanks

ORLY / O RLY = Oh really?

OL = The old lady

OM = The old man

OT = Off topic

OTOH = On the other hand

P911 = Parent alert 

PIR = Parent(s) in the room

peeps / PPL = People 

peep this = Hey, listen to this

PLS / PLZ = Please

PMJI = Pardon me for jumping in

POTS = Plain old telephone service

POS = Parents over shoulder

PRW = Parents are watching

PTB = Please text back

Ringl8 = Running late

RL = Real life (vs. on-line)

RME = Rolling my eyes

ROFL = Rolling on floor laughing

RSN = Real soon now

RU = Are you?

RUOK = Are you okay?

SH = Same here

SO = Significant other

SOS = Same old stuff

SOTA = State of the art

STR8 = Straight (re: sexuality)

SY = Sincerely yours

TAFN = That's all for now

TC = Take care

THX / THNX = Thanks!

TMI / TM411 = Too much information

TNT = Till next time

TRDMF = Tears running down my face

TPS = That's pretty stupid

TTFN = Ta-Ta for now

TTYL = Talk to you later

TY = Thank you

USA = Until sides ache

UV = Unpleasant visual

UW / YW = You're welcome

WB = Welcome back

WEG = Wicked evil grin

WEU = What's eating you?

WTG = Way to go

WFM = Works for me

WWJD = What would Jesus do?

YAA = Yet another acronym

YBS = You'll be sorry

YT = You there?

So there U have it...the HWA list of text message abbreviations. Peeps, IDK any that start with X or Z, JW if U do? PLS tell us, TY! GTR, HAGD!!!

Like the information you are reading on Here We Are? Be sure to subscribe -- it's free, we never share your info, and you might even receive one of our monthly gifts!

Text Message Abbreviations: Let Your Fingers Do The Talking

Part I: Letters A - M

It seems no matter where you go these days, someone is typing an email message, a Tweet on Twitter, or texting. The new rules of communication dictate that brevity rules and swiftness is key. Whether your conduit of choice is a cell phone, a Blackberry, a laptop, or a desktop keyboard, the message is loud and clear...There is no need to speak when you can be heard via silent acronyms. Here We Are is here to help your fingers do the talking!

Here R the ABC's 4 U ("Caps" in this list are for an easier read -- not shouting @ U -- HF!):

AAK = Alive and kicking

ADN = Any day now

AEAP = As early as possible

AFAIK = As far as I know

AFK = Away from keyboard

AFN = All for now

ASL = Age Sex Location

AYT = Are you there?

B4 = Before

B4N = Bye for now

BBL = Be back later

BCNU = Be seeing you

BF = Boyfriend

BRB = Be right back

BTW = By the way

CU = See you

CYRMA = Call your mother

DEGT = Don't even go there

DIKU = Do I know you?

DIS = Did I say

DK = Don't know

EG = Evil grin

EM = E-mail  //  EM? = Excuse Me?

EOD = End of discussion

F2F = Face to face

FOCL = Falling off chair laughing

FUBAR = F'd up beyond all recognition

FYEO = For your eyes only

GAL = Get a life

GBH = Great big hug

GF = Girlfriend

GGOH = Gotta get outta here

GJ = Good job

GL = Good luck

GMTA = Great minds think alike

GR&D = Grinning Running & Ducking

GTR = Got to run

HAGD = Have a good day

HAGO = Have a good one

HB = Hurry back

HF = Have fun

H&K = Hugs & kisses

HTH = Hope that helps

IB = I'm back

IC = I see

IDK = I don't know

IDTS = I don't think so

ILU = I love you

IMO = In my opinion // IMHO = In my humble opinion

IRL = In real life

IYKWIM = If you know what I mean

JAS = Just a second

JIC = Just in case

JK = Just kidding

JW = Just wondering

KIT = Keep in touch

KPC = Keeping parents clueless

LMAO = Laughing my ass off // LOL = Laughing out loud

LTNS = Long time no see

LY = Love ya

B sure 2 subscribe 2 HWAwL so U won't miss Pt. 2 of our "Text Message Abbreviations" list!!

Do U have any txt abbr. 2 add? Plz let us know in the comments area below! THX

If You Are In Need of a Mini-Escape, May I Suggest a Date with the “Beverly Hills Chihuahua”

With the stock market crashing (again), people losing their life savings and a contentious, never-ending Presidential campaign, this movie won’t solve your problems but it will make you smile.  It is a nice escape offering up all of the good old fashioned, live action elements we expect from a Disney movie.  The main storyline includes a canine heroine, a hero, an underdog (no pun intended), a villain, a troublemaker, and various “helpers” to move the story along.  The subplot focuses on the same characters only played by actors in human form. It is hard to act with kids and animals, but
Piper Perabo turns in a very likable performance. 

Now I may be partial because I liked the “talking” animal vehicle, and many of the kids in the theater seemed to as well. In this movie, the big dog, oops…I mean the little Chihuahua, Chloe, ends up caught in a classic fish out of water scenario.  Instead of a continuing her life as a pampered Beverly Hills pooch, she ends up in Mexico on an adventure that changes her and everyone she encounters for the better. 

No doubt it is far-fetched, a bit corny, and some might say slightly stereotypical, but overall, it is a clean, wholesome fun time.  It could have been a few minutes shorter to avoid some restlessness of the smaller kids, but as I walked out of the theater all of the adults were smiling.  So, if you are in need of a few happy, peppy moments with or without the kids this weekend…check your local listings and say adiós a sus preocupaciones por un 85 minutos.