Tuesday, April 2, 2013

The A to Z Challenge – Blazing Saddles and Big Bad Moon, Plus Ninja News

My theme for the A to Z Challenge is Favorite Movies, Bloggers, and Music! I’ll name a favorite movie that corresponds with the letter, and then select a character from the film. I will then name a favorite blogger who reminds me of that character, and then dedicate a song to him. (Also corresponding with the alphabet.) I’ll wrap it all up with trivia and/or fun facts about the movie, the blogger, or the music!

In addition, two lucky commenters this month will receive a review copy of CassaStorm! One comment per day and each is worth one entry except – the first and one hundredth comments on each day will receive ten entries!

Blazing Saddles

Bottom line – it’s hilarious! It skewered racism and homophobia back when such a thing was frowned upon. It was really bold for its time. The cast is outstanding and it makes me laugh every single time I watch it.

Bart is the sheriff, and he’s walked into a potentially explosive situation. Regardless, he still has a great attitude and a sense of humor. He’s slick and surrounds himself with good people.

Who is Bart?

Mark Means at Left and Write!

Mark has swagger and he’s quick on the draw. (You think I’m fast to comment?) He’s a solid individual with an awesome attitude. Mark understands what this community is all about and he’s sworn to protect it.

Mark is a writer with a bit of a geek edge.

To you I dedicate Big Bad Moon, by Joe Satriani, because you are just as bad ass!

“Big bad moon’s looking down on me tonight.”

Facts and Trivia –

Satriani was recruited to play lead guitar on the solo tour of the lead singer for one of the biggest bands ever – name the band.

A’s trivia answer – Joe Johnston directed the Rocketeer in 1991.


Ninja News!

Special thanks to Medeia Sharif - I and my book were her post for A yesterday! That was an awesome surprise. Thanks, Medeia!

Win a Twenty dollar Amazon gift card by nominating/voting for an A to Z blogger you appreciate! See CM Brown’s SITE to vote.

Carol Kilgore’s latest, Solomon’s Compass, releases today!

The lure of buried treasure. A sexy former SEAL. Could USCG CDR Taylor Campbell want more? Don't ask. A story of love, loyalty, and the value of keeping a promise,

Coming May 30 from Rachel Morgan - The Faerie Prince! 

Guardian trainee Violet Fairdale is just weeks away from one of the most important occasions of her life…

Coming this June from Hart Johnson, a.k.a. Alyse Carlson, at Confessions of a Watery Tart - The Begonia Bribe: 2nd in the Garden Society Cozy Mystery series!

Roanoke, Virginia, is home to some of the country’s most exquisite gardens, and it’s Camellia Harris’s job to promote them. But when a pint-sized beauty contest comes to town, someone decides to deliver a final judgment …


Challenge Opens With A Bang!

Didn’t yesterday just rock? So many participants (over 1900) and so many comments. (Crap, I had over two hundred and fifty comments – even I can’t keep up with that!!) Thanks to everyone for your efforts, including my Ninja Minions, because I saw your comments everywhere.

And I would like to apologize in advance, but I will not be able to visit as many as I did on Monday every single day. Between blogger buddies, commenters, and my section of the Challenge list, I’m just not going to be able to visit everyone every single day. So if I skip a post, please don’t be offended. I just need to maintain my sanity this month without burning out either myself or my clones. (Or Al’s dwarves! He will want them back intact.)

Fan of Blazing Saddles? Fan of Mark? Know the rock band? Excited about the upcoming releases? Forgive me if I can’t get to everyone? I’ll still give it my best effort!

Don’t forget – the Insecure Writer’s Support Group posts tomorrow! And come back to see who I feature next...

181 comments:

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

My husband is a fan of Blazing Saddles. It's been so long since I've seen it, I'm not sure if it would make me laugh anymore.

Gosh, I'm not sure how I'm going to incorporate the IWSG into tomorrow's "C" post. Gotta love a challenge!

Trisha said...

I have experienced the blessing of Mark Means's swift commenting skillz! hehe.

Nice post. I have probably seen Blazing Saddles but, honestly? I can't remember it. Need a (re-)watch!

Cynthia said...

Mark Means leaves nice comments on my blog. Yay, Mark!

Monday was busy. I don't know if I'd be able to get through 1,500+ blogs in a month, but I'll do my best to visit as many blogs as I can.

Laura said...

Yay for Mark! I've never seen Blazing Saddles- think it's time for some educational film watching!
Good luck keeping your sanity :)
Laura x

Misha Gerrick said...

Mark is wonderful!.

Never seen blazing saddles. And I totally understand if you skip posts. I'm doing it too, since I'm trying to get to as many blogs as possible. :-)

Anonymous said...

Great book news. I'm glad to see more bloggers' books.

I love Blazing Saddles.

RaveAir said...

Somehow I guessed your today theme will Batman. I was wrong.

As I see you survived the Easter and April's Fool day without bigger suprises. :)

Empty Nest Insider said...

Blazing Saddles made my top ten list for your blogfest. Mark is a great guy, and I look forward to getting to know him better. Great choices Alex, and congrats to Carol!
Julie

Michelle Wallace said...

Congrats to Carol!
Yay for Rachel Morgan and Hart Johnson!
I wondered when Joe Satriani was going to pop up in one of your posts... I've met Mark and he seems like a cool dude!
Thanks for the IWSG reminder Alex!
(I don't know how many blogs I visited yesterday... it was quite a large batch...)

Unknown said...

My dad loved Blazing Saddles. Yes, A-Z did go off with a bang!

Unknown said...

Wow, I just slipped in to make number 10!

Jeremy [Retro] said...

Blazing Saddles it's been a long time since I have seen it.

Mark is awesome, period!

Challenge opens in a Blaze of Glory...

Dani said...

Oh geez, I don't even know if I've ever watched Blazing Saddles... Hmmm.... It's been a long time if so.

Mark is so nice!!!

Ida Thought said...

I needed a dose of rock and roll to get my day started - heading over to Left and write now, thanks for popping in yesterday but seriously if you were to pop in everyday during this challenge on somebody that literally just started - like me - I would think you were a robot or at least a lot cray cray... :D - *hits repeat on Jo's Big Bad Moon*

J.L. Murphey said...

Oh my goodness! Blazing Saddles! Cleavon Little was Bart. The black sheriff in a mostly white town.

Fav scene is the campfire after beans. I'm surprised the camp didn't blow up with all that methane in the air.

Anonymous said...

Loved your choice of film and character. Very good idea of yours Alex.

Yvonne.

Unknown said...

Honestly, I'm amazed that you get around to as many blogs as you do. You're amazing. Me I can't even keep up with the little I'm doing at the moment. Keep that sanity Alex!

Cassie Mae said...

Blazing Saddles, ha! That movie is pee your pants hilarious. Amazing choice :)

I was going to say something else, but I totally spaced. Something about you not having to worry about visiting or something or other, but I'm tired, it's four in the morning and it just zoomed right out of my head. Pretend I said something super eloquent.

A Daft Scots Lass said...

Deep Purple?

Yesterday was brilliant. I visited over a dozen blogs and I gave myself a goal of five day!

perhaps just over-enthusiasm?

A Daft Scots Lass said...

Deep Purple?

Yesterday was brilliant. I visited over a dozen blogs and I gave myself a goal of five day!

perhaps just over-enthusiasm?

ediFanoB said...

I think you should enjoy all the comments and nobody should expect that you answer each comment individually and that you visit all the blogs.
Maybe you need a meeting with Santa because he could explain to you how he delivers all the gifts within one night ;-)

Melissa said...

I LOVED Blazing Saddles.

Lyle: [after group farting] How 'bout some more beans, Mr. Taggart?
Taggart: [fans his hat in the air] I'd say you've had enough!

ROFL xD

kjmckendry said...

I haven't seen Blazing Saddles in a really long time, but I remember I laughed a lot!

Suzanne Furness said...

Yay for Mark he sure is one quick draw! I'm sure even Ninja's are allowed a little down time.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Lynda, I'm sure you'll find a way!

Zoltan, check back for D.

Julie, very cool!

Carolyn, yes you did!

Ida, glad I could rock your morning! And clones help when blog visiting.

JL, and he was the smartest one in the town.

Cassie, will do!

Lass, not Deep Purple, but it is an older band.

Edi, I'll schedule a meeting with him...

Unknown said...

Never saw Blazing Saddles. I know, I know. Shame on me!

Definitely don't want to burn yourself out. I saw you all over the place yesterday. I was so caught up in the challenge that I didn't get much else done yesterday. Oops. :)

Tara Tyler said...

this is so great!
avengers! blazing saddles! both classics from different times!

and yay for al who is getting blasted today!
and mark is a sweetheart!

happy a & b days!

Natalie Aguirre said...

Awesome book news. Wow! You got lots of comments yesterday. Yes, you just have to do what you can.

farawayeyes said...

Love 'Blazing Saddles', but of course, it's a Western isn't it.

Hart Johnson said...

Oh, I loved Blazing Saddles--Wilder and Pryor had a couple great ones, didn't they?

And THANK YOU for the shout out on Begonia Bribe!!!

randi lee said...

Oh, man! I love Blazing Saddles. And anything Mel Brooks, really :)

Elise Fallson said...

Big fan of Mark and his blog. He's got a great theme for AZ too--obscure superheroes.

Congrats to Carol, Rachel and Hart!

And don't worry about trying to get to everyone's blog, people will understand, AZ is crazy for a lot of folks. (:

Old Kitty said...

Love Blazing Saddles!!! This and Young Frankenstein! Yay!!

Erm.. Dio! LOL!!

Take care
x

Summer Ross said...

Was never a big fan of Blazing Saddles. My manly man is though. LOL
Wowee- look at all those upcoming books. Such awesome covers.

Unknown said...

What a success so far! Congrats to everyone.

I don't think I could get to 250 comments either.

Bob/Sally said...

Happy 'B' day! I haven't watched Blazing Saddles in years, but that is definitely one funny movie.

Nick Wilford said...

Hooray for Mark! Great choice.

Relieved to know even Ninjas have their limits!

Miranda Hardy said...

Blazing Saddles is hilarious!!! Love that flick.

Heather M. Gardner said...

You're excitement is palpable! It was so much fun yesterday! I saw old faces and new faces and I had a blast.

LOVE Blazing Saddles. I don't have as many lines memorized from that movie as I do from other Mel movies but its a classic. And Madeline Khan, need we say more. :)

Never apologize. We know you're only human. Aren't you?

'C' you tomorrow!
HMG

Optimistic Existentialist said...

Like one of the above commenters, I also had thought today's would be Batman haha. My dad loved Blazing Saddles but I have yet to see it.

baygirl32 said...

Its starting out strong! YEAH

C you tomorrow :)

Rek Sesh said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Rek Sesh said...

So many books and so little time to read them all.
That's a cool way to blog for A-Z but then you were always a giver.
Sorry, I skunked away with my tail between my legs but the temp is well at the 100 mark and threatening to rise further.
More than eight hours on the comp is giving me bum burns among other things...I will lurk around whenever I can.
Have fun and see you tomo. I have a controversial post but am counting on your support and understanding.

Jennie Bennett said...

I haven't met Mark, I'll have to check him out! I'm not sure I can keep up with comments either, but maybe that's a good thing. You've done excellent, Alex. Keep being awesome :)

Luanne G. Smith said...

Blazing Saddles is a classic!!

And yay for Carol and Hart. And I'll have to check out the Faerie book too. :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Terri, I didn't either!

Hart, you're welcome!

Elise, I still feel bad...

Kitty, no, but that was a good guess!

Heather, Khan had some great lines and who could forget her singing?

Cindy said...

I love Blazing Saddles. Must visit Mark's blog.

IWSG?? We're doing that this tomorrow, eh? I'm going to have to dig deep to find a new insecurity.

T. Powell Coltrin said...

It WAS a great start yesterday.

I remember Blazing Saddles. Feeling old about that.

Jan Morrison said...

Yesterday was fabulous! So many people to visit and get to know - though I must say I do act somewhat like I do at a party - hanging with my peeps!
I love Blazing Saddles - so screamingly funny still. I'll check out Mark too...
Jan Morrison

Laura Clipson said...

I've never seen Blazing Saddles, but I've certainly heard a lot about it and it sounds like an entertaining film!

Laura Eno said...

Ah, but you're loved, Alex! That's all that matters in the end. :)

Juliana Haygert said...

1900 participants?! That's crazy! And good ;)

Powdered Toast Man said...

I'm ashamed to say that I haven't seen Blazing Saddles in it's entirety. I just added it to my Netflix Queue to watch next. I loved Spaceballs so I am sure I will love this.

Susan Oloier said...

Congrats to Carol on her release.
Your rock, Alex!

David T List said...

Satriani is the man. Considering that you like Dream Theater, I'm sure you're also a Petrucci fan, and possibly a guitarist yourself!
I've run with your idea of three topics each day per letter... I'm too scattered to stick with one!

Michael Di Gesu said...

Blazing Saddles is hysterical! Congrats to Mark... I definitely is a quick commenter.

AND CONGRATS to Carol, THE TART, and Rachel!!!!! All the best ladies!

It was an awesome day...

Good news, Alex, I learned that I can schedule posts and they will still post even if I am not connected, WOOOT!

Good luck keeping up. I am luck I still am with only about forty to fifty. I am going blind commenting with my iPhone though. More hours at McDonald's and the library. My butt is already killing me. LOL.

L. Diane Wolfe said...

My husband loves Blazing Saddles.

Recently discovered Mark's blog and he's a real nice guy.

Jo said...

So you've finally been stumped Alex. Sorry to hear that. I must admit that visiting everyone who comments and the blogs I follow anyway makes other visiting a challenge and I don't get nearly the number of comments you do.

I haven't seen Blazing Saddles in years, but loved it when I did see it.

JO ON FOOD, MY TRAVELS AND A SCENT OF CHOCOLATE

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

Blazing Saddles was an awesome movie. Hard to believe they're both gone now. Gads, I remember when it came out in the theatre! Mr. Wilder was a very funny man.

Tracy Jo said...

So many upcoming releases...it is exciting! Can't wait to read Solomon's Compass. Yay, Carol!! It has been a great start to April.

Nickie said...

I love Blazing Saddles! Great choice. You're right -- it's rare that a movie makes me laugh every time I watch it, but Blazing Saddles always gets me giggling. There's so much to love about it (like the ending -- so absurd, but so confident in it's absurdity).

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Cindy, we've never missed a day!

Laura, thank you.

PTM, you will dig it.

David, bit Petrucci fan, and yes, I am a guitarist.

Michael, glad you've got posts scheduled. That will make it so much easier on you.

Joylene, we lost some real talent in those men.

Anonymous said...

Blazing Saddles blast the moon and Mark Means - Spot on, Alex. Spot on!

Carol Kilgore said...

Thanks for the shout-out, Alex!

mshatch said...

Mark is a great guy and Blazing Saddles was hilarious :)

Big congrats to Hart and Carol - YAY!!!

cleemckenzie said...

Blazing Saddles rattled so many taboos! I am a fan of Mark. It's his winning smile and his great comments that got my attention. Congrats, Mark!

Mark Means said...

Wow Alex, thank you very much for the shout out! It's always a great feeling when your blogging buddies say something nice about you....I'm honored :)

I'm ashamed to say I've never seen Blazing Saddles all the way through...I'll have to change that, soon :)

Love that Satriani song...it's one I've never heard before and I really dig that harmonica!

Also, thank you for the IWSG reminder...in all the hullaballoo I had forgotten about it!

Thanks again, Alex, all your help and support is greatly appreciated :)

Charles Gramlich said...

I enjoyed Blazing Saddles, although Young Frankenstein is my preferred Mel Brooks film.

Al Diaz said...

That's such a very big smile on Mark's face! Pretty much like dragon grin, hahahaha. Great guy!
You're so right, I will want my dwarves back or I'll have to charge you for them (and they are very expensive these days since not all dwarves come with dragon care training, certified and approved by Dragon Organization.:)) Let's just make our best, I say.

ilima said...

I love Mark! So glad you spotlighted him.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Carol, you're welcome!

Mark, you are most welcome! Now you need to watch the whole movie.

Charles, that's my second favorite.

Al, no dwarves will be harmed!

Donna K. Weaver said...

Mel Brooks has such a fun, quirky sense of humor. Good choice there.

Tyrean Martinson said...

Blazing Saddles - I remember that movie, I'll have to watch it again soon. :) Mark rocks and totally deserves the shout out!!!

And IWSG - almost forgot to add that tidbit into tomorrow's post - but I will.

John Wiswell said...

Nice of you to highlight Mark! He's been a pleasure to meet, and his theme has been one of the most entertaining to follow so far.

And Blazing Saddles is comedy gold, one of my all-time favorites.

Tina said...

Yup, yesterday rocked! And no, I won't be able to visit as many blogs as I did yesterday...such is the nature of this beast of a Challenge!

Guess I need to watch Blazing Saddles again. It's been quite a while...


Tina @ Life is Good
Co-host, April 2013 A-Z Challenge Blog
@TinaLifeisGood, #atozchallenge

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

Love blazing saddles but I haven't watched it for a long time.

Roland D. Yeomans said...

BLAZING SADDLES is a yearly re-visit for me. Thanks for reminding me it's time to drop by those parts again. :-)

Unknown said...

Thanks so much for sharing my cover, and WOW that is a lot of comments to keep up with!

Ella said...

Captain Cool...you are human! I am also trying to do a NaPoWriMo-a poem every day for April. I cracked yesterday-my family being home-no way, no how can I keep up!

I'm in awe of all you do!

Hang in there AC, lol

Huge fan of Mark :D He is so fun, yes he would be a great Bart!

Mary Aalgaard said...

Gotta be in the right mood for Blazing Saddles! Ha. And, yes, great start to the challenge. I can feel the energy through cyberspace. Super fun!
Play off the Page

Joy said...

I love it when something can make me laugh every time.

E. M. Prokop said...

Hey Alex!! I love love Blazing Saddles! Excellent pick...and the answer to the Satriani question is Deep Purple...sorry, I didn't read the other comments, someone probably got it already.
This fest is proving to be a fun time. I'm trying to read as many as I can. There are some great people out there!

Cherie Reich said...

How you manage to keep up with as many blogs as you do amazes me, so I think we'll understand. :)

Love Rachel and Hart's covers!

mooderino said...

250 posts! Going to be tough returning all those visits. Victim of your own success.

Love Blazing Saddles.

mood

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Roland, I need to revisit it soon as well.

You're welcome, Rachel. And yes, too many for even me!

Eve, not Deep Purple, but it is an older band.

Moody, that's one way to put it.

Unknown said...

LOL. Movies, Music, Blogging? Perfect choice for a theme. :) I love it Alex, and yes the Challenge has certainly exploded into action.

That familiar tingle of excitement is back and I'm thrilled to be a part of it again.

I will be back. :)

Luna
www.moonlightandhershadow.blogspot.com

SK Anthony said...

OK, now I feel left out on the joke because I haven't seen Blazzing Saddles, going to add it to my "to watch" list.

Yay for being featured on Medeia's post yesterday!

Bish Denham said...

Blazing Saddles, what a hoot. I love the scene where Sheriff Bart holds himself up.

Unknown said...

Funny movie-- I've seen Mark around, now I need to go visit his blog.

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

Blazing Saddles is hilarious.

Unknown said...

Blazing Saddles rocks and so does Mark. He is one of my new favorite people.

Willa Blair said...

I know it's hard to believe, but I've never seen all of Blazing Saddles. Just clips from it. I'm going to have to remedy that!

Patricia Stoltey said...

You want to stay sane during the April challenge? Very ambitious goal, Alex.

I loved Blazing Saddles, and this reminder will put it right back into my Netflix queue. Thanks!

Intangible Hearts said...

250 comments! Wow, congratulations Alex--I don't know how you do it.

Nancy Thompson said...

I love Mark! He's always so nice & supportive. And Satch played for Mick Jagger way back in the early days. He lived in the Bay Area, the East Bay, as did I, and was hugely popular, playing local shows constantly. I always loved Joe, so he's a great match for Mark! And please, though I LOVE that you've always shown up at my place every single time, I understand how thin you'll be spreading yourself. Not even possible to make it every day.

Alexandra Heep said...

I know it's not a question, but I've actually been to Roanoke. Well, drove through it, but yes, it's a wonderful area. I used to live a couple of hours east of there.

Mina Burrows said...

Love Blazing Saddles. Haven't seen it in ages. I agree. Mark Means rocks.

Susan Kane said...

To this day, my husband and I laugh at the little bits from Blazing Saddles. Mongo. "I'm tired..." "Don't shoot the sheriff!"

Hated the ending, when everyone runs off the set and through the modern streets.

helen said...

I love Blazing Saddles, but recently when I watched it on regular TV, they took out the sound effects to the campfire scene. Really? All the violence on TV and they edit 'noises'. What is the world coming to?

Unknown said...

I've still not seen Blazing Saddles - a shock, since I love Mel Brook's movies. One day I'll get a chance :)

Jamie @ Mithril Wisdom
www.mithrilwisdom.com

Kathe W. said...

Ten digits skyward for Blazing Saddles! Have a great day!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

SK, you'll enjoy it!

Bish, that was a great scene. And all the townsfolk bought it.

Willa, yes you will.

Patricia, almost as ambitious as my theme.

Nancy, you nailed it!! Very good.

Helen, that's just silly.

Jamie, I am shocked! You must watch it.

J.L. Campbell said...

Lots going on, as always. Met Mark recently, and yes, he's a goodun. Medeia is among my favourite bloggers too. Saw her post on your book yesterday.

Julie Flanders said...

Great choice, I love Mark's blog. And I'm so happy for Carol that her release day is finally here! Amazing how many participants the Challenge has this year. I'm already having a terrible time keeping up so I can imagine how stretched thin you must be.

Gwen Gardner said...

Hmmm, not sure if I've seen Blazing Saddles - but congrats to Mark for being your awesome blogger of the day!

Congrats to everyone on their new covers/releases :)

Robin said...

I have only recently started reading Mark's blog, but I think he is an excellent choice. Plus, I agree with everything you said about him. He is a lovely person:) Well done, Ninja Captain!

Notes Along the Way with Mary Montague Sikes said...

Lots of fun! Nice what you are doing for the Challenge.

Mary Montague Sikes

M.C.V. EGAN said...

A Blast from the past Blazzing Saddles !
http://thebridgeofdeaths.tumblr.com/

Tonja Drecker said...

I've never seen Blazing Saddles. Probably a sin, huh?
I'm always amazed with how many blogs you do visit-definitely a super ninja's talent.

Robin said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
PK HREZO said...

Wow what a kick off! 250 comments is insane! lol Enjoy! :D

Anonymous said...

250 comments! I'm not surprised you can't keep up. That's some going.

I haven't seen Blazing Saddles, should I be ashamed of myself?

Have a great month Alex!

Hildie McQueen said...

OMG over 1900! I'm lucky if I get to ten in a day! I will do that as much as possible. My hubs love blazing saddles. Oh and he finished your second book, said...wow good book when's the next? I suppose he could have seen my post and found out...hmmm ;-)

Anonymous said...

Blazing Saddles is fantastic. Haven't watched it in a while, but we used to watch it with mom and dad all the time when I was a kid.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Julie, just adds to the Challenge...

T, you must correct that at once!

PK, you almost had that many on Blitz day!

Rebecca, no shame. Just add it to your list!

Hildie, glad he liked it! Maybe you'll win a review copy of the third one for him.

Rebecca Green Gasper said...

Cheers to Mark! Wow- 1900...thinking blogging is very much alive! :) Way to rock the challenge!

Dobson said...

Even though I am not #1 or #100 i still wanted you to know i enjoyed your blog and the post for Day 2. I am so glad I found out about the challenge and look forward to adding my two cents worth each day.

M Pax said...

Congrats to Carol, Rachel, and Hart! And it's nice to meet Mark.

Tony Laplume said...

He shoots with his other hand...

VikLit said...

Great post! And of course you can't comment that much every day - even Captain Alex must have a limit!

Not sure I'll be able to IWSG tomorrow with A-Z going on but will be back with a vengeance next month.

Mark said...

Blazing Saddles...I still don't know how such a film ever got made...and I mean that in a good way. Def hilarious:)

L.G. Keltner said...

This A-Z Challenge is huge! The more the merrier!

Peaches Ledwidge said...

Never seen Blazing Saddles. It must be hard keeping up with all the blogs.

klahanie said...

Penny the Jack Russell dog and modest internet superstar just consumed a huge amount of baked beans.

And Mark 'means' well. I noted to him that you almost seem to leave a comment before a posting is published. How do you do that, Alex?

And yep, the alphabet challenge had a bang, for sure. I also discovered that you folks involved with the challenge start at the beginning of the alphabet. How very, interesting.

Gary

S. L. Hennessy said...

LOOOVE Blazing Saddles. Hysterical.

Emily White said...

Blazing Saddles?? Um...yes please!! Great choice!

Anonymous said...

One good thing about A - Z is that I'm loading my Netflix queue.

Anonymous said...

Alex! You always do so well visiting! We understand! Also, I know it's been a while but I like your new heading!

Unknown said...

I don't know how you get round to visiting so many people, Alex. And yes! Blazing Saddles was one of the movies I've actually seen and I loved it :-)

Ink in the Book said...

I don't know how you do it, but somehow you manage to make so many people smile. You must believe in a lot good, people!

Birgit said...

That's Hedley! Did you know Hedy Lamarr actually sued Mel Brooks for using her name. I think she lost but can't quite recall. Great movie and just a wild, wild ending...now stick out your tusch:)

Anonymous said...

Ah, when I saw Blazing Saddles, I tried so hard not to laugh so loud because my mom was asleep down the hall. The first 2 minutes had me rolling!

Christine Rains said...

Yay for Mark! He's awesome. :) Congrats to all the ladies in the news.

Mel Chesley said...

LOVE Blazing Saddles! Great movie choice. And I certainly won't hold it against you or anyone else who can't stop by every single day. Who am I to say something? ;)

Ray Rousell said...

Blazing Saddles ....a classic!!

Golden Eagle said...

I'm definitely a fan of Mark!

I'm amazed you get around to as many blogs as it is. No one can expect you to keep track of every site!

Anonymous said...

Blazing Saddles! awesome awesomeness :)

Anonymous said...

Alex to be honest I have never seen that one either...Mark sounds awesome will have to go over and meet him soon!

Arlee Bird said...

We had an amazing opening day and like you I can't keep up with everyone. That's why we have a Team and Teams. Boy, that helps a lot!

Lee
Wrote By Rote
An A to Z Co-host blog

Allison said...

Mark Means is awesome! Best of luck keeping up with all these a-z posts.

Allison (Geek Banter)

Unknown said...

Yes, mark really deserves the praise.

Leovi said...

Funny, today all the "B" are visiting .. !

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Dobson, glad you are on board!

Mark, it pushed the limits!

Penny knows how to clear a room, doesn't she, Gary?

Thanks, Melanie!

Ink, I try to only see the good.

Birgit, I remember reading that.

Lee, I still wish I could to it all.

Jay Noel said...

Never drink soda while watching Blazing Saddles. Trust me on that one, unless you love the burning sensation of it flying out of your nose.

Anonymous said...

I hope the momentum keeps up. I've found some great blogs so far.

Unknown said...

Blazing saddles has to be one of the FUNNIEST movies EVER!!! I'm in, I can't wait to see 'C'
Connie
Checkin' in from the A to Z Challenge
Peanut Butter and Whine

Carrie Butler said...

Oo, great pick, Alex! That's a classic. :)

Shell Flower said...

Don't worry about not making it to every blog, geez, you are amazing as it is! Great shout out for Mark. I have recently found his blog and he's awesome. Blazing Saddles rocks. Yay for new book releases, too.

Shannon Lawrence said...

Blazing Saddles is forever a classic. And definitely a pioneer film.

Congratulations to Carol, Rachel and Hart!

Yesterday was amazing! I've gotten some really quality and thought-provoking comments on my blog posts, so far, and I'm loving it.

Shannon at The Warrior Muse

Amy Jarecki said...

Blazing Saddles? Now that's one movie I haven't thought about for a looooong time! Happy "B" Day!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Jay, I know what you mean!

Ciara said...

OH no, I was thinking we were having it this month with the A to Z. Oops. I think this will the first one that I've missed since I signed up. :(
Congrats to all the new releases!!

Rick Daley said...

Balzing Saddles is an all-time classic, great choice!

I'm guessing Led Zeppelin/Robert Plant for the Satriani question. I didn't Google it or read the other comments yet, I hope I'm right.

Kimberly Gabriel said...

God bless Blazing Saddles. Ha! And yes - you are totally forgiven if you miss a few posts - I'm still blown away by how detailed your Tuesday post is.

Unknown said...

Ninja Alex, you are so cool for trying to hit up so many blogs. But don't kill yourself off in the process. We appreciate your support. Well, I appreciate you support all the way to the moon and back.
Rachel Morgan's book cover is delicious looking. Will have to read it. :)

Anonymous said...

Blazing Saddles is one of my all time favorite films. "Gee, what a nith guy.." Thank you for the 'B' day post! :)

Unknown said...

AZ is off to a rocking start, and a lot of you is due to you, Alex! I'm skipping the IWSG tomorrow, will be back again in May.

Damyanti @Daily(w)rite
Co-host, A to Z Challenge 2013

Twitter: @AprilA2Z
#atozchallenge

Rusty Carl said...

What a great post... I'm looking forward to your month of this. I'll be real curious to what some of the more obscure letters will bring.

Jeff Hargett said...

Excellent choice for Bart!

James Garcia Jr said...

"You use your tongue prettier than a $20..." Er, perhaps we should stop there! Loved the Blazing Saddles shout-out, Alex. Well done!

-Jimmy

Chuck said...

Blazing Saddles was one of the great movies of my youth. I have probably seen it 2 dozen times and never does it fail in its humor cutting edge portrayals.

Alex, if you make it out of this challenge with sanity intact I suspect you will be up for a vacation...far from bat country.

Chuck at Apocalypse Now

Anonymous said...

I'm a fan of anything Mel Brooks, but Blazing Sadles was probably one of his best movies ever. He poked fun at everything! XD

Jaleh D said...

I'd already been a fan of Mel Brooks, but my first boyfriend was the one who introduced me to Blazing Saddles our freshman year of college. I haven't talked to him in a long time, but I still enjoy the movie.

Krista McLaughlin said...

Blazzing Saddles, sorry I've never heard of it! I'm excited for Rachel Morgan's release - I didn't know it was coming soon!

Don't worry about not visiting everyone - that's what minions are for! Don't push yourself too far. :)

Katie Dunn said...

To answer your trivia question...

the Rolling Stones. It was Mick Jagger's first solo tour.

Katherines Corner said...

So many funny scenes in Blazing Saddles, the campfire scene and when he punches the horse popped into my head first....I saw this at the drive in and you could hear the laughter echoing. Thanks for this my friend xo

Sheena-kay Graham said...

Blazing Saddles? Uh no. Whoo! Mark M. got a mention! That's awesome and congrats Rachel and all other authours with upcoming books.

Michelle aka Naila Moon said...

Oh my gosh! LOve Blazing Saddles. I first saw this with my Dad years ago with no understanding of it what-so-ever.

Now that I do, it is even funnier!

DiscConnected said...

Alex-

I did not read all the comments, so I am sure someone got this by now, but Satch played for Mick Jagger on his initial solo tour (late 80's)

Andrew Leon said...

I've been meaning to see Blazing Saddles again for a long time. I need to get on that!

I plan to be mightily offended! Or offensive! Hmm... I need to pick one of those...

Unknown said...

Of course I love Blazing Saddles. Anything from Mel Brooks!

D.G. Hudson said...

Blazing Saddles - hmm? A Mel Brooks flavor. Interesting selection for B.

Nice to know more about Mark!

Barbara White Daille said...

Love Blazing Saddles!

Great seeing all the Ninja News - congrats to everyone on the list.

Barbara
A to Z first-timer, blogging at my website

Samantha May said...

I haven't heard of Blazing Saddles. Mark Means, on the other hand, I know :D

Hopefully you keep your sanity!

msmariah said...

Alex you always find an oldie, but goodie. Blazing Saddles was so ahead of its time. Wasn't Slim Pickens in that? I was just thinking about another Mel Brooks movie the other day. He did 'The History of the World' as well?

My husband was reading a book by Mel Brooks' son, World War Z. It will be movie w/ Brad Pitt. Must be in the family.

Anonymous said...

Blazing Saddles is funny every time I see it and I've seen it a lot.

Mark Means is a great second pick. He is another of my blogging heroes, present company included.

Rachna Chhabria said...

Never seen Blazing Saddles. But will go and meet Mark. He sounds like a blog buddy I should definitely get to know :)

jaybird said...

Big fan of BOTH. Blazing Saddles and Mark Means. Awesome post!

Kristen said...

Haha, that's a great choice!

Nicole said...

And now I'm going to have the Blazing Saddles theme song stuck in my head all day. ;)

Ian Anderson said...

Alex, I can't imagine commenting and visiting like you do!