Monday, March 24, 2014

My A to Z Challenge Theme, Saving Mr. Banks Review, Melissa Maygrove’s Puzzle Contest, and Ninja News

Movie Review

Saving Mr. Banks
Staring Emma Thompson, Tom Hanks, and Colin Farrell, it focuses on author PL Travers as Walt Disney tries to woo her into a movie version of Mary Poppins. Half of the movie is told in flashback to Travers’ childhood and her relationship with her father, played by Farrell.
While a bit overlong, the story is charming and moving. All three leads shine, especially Thompson, and some of the best scenes involve the three writers working with Travers and moments with her chauffer, played by Paul Giamatti. At its core, the story is about letting go of the past.
Recommended


Ninja News

This Wednesday, March 26 – Milo James Fowler will be at the Insecure Writer’s Support Group site, so be sure to stop by.

Carrie Butler’s Honesty (Mark of Nexus #2.5) is now available!



Nicole Singer posted funny, failsafe blogging tips. This was my favorite - when all else fails, mention Firefly!

The Hostile Smile by Pat Hatt is now available – this makes book #31!

Cover reveal –
Love’s Sorrow
By Terri Rochenski



And we are now just one week away from the start of the fifth A to Z Challenge!



Cover Puzzle Contest!

In anticipation of her debut cover reveal on Monday, March 31st, Melissa Maygrove is sharing some teaser images this week. A trivia question has been paired with each one. It’s a contest!

Hop around to participating blogs and collect all 7 answers, then give them to Melissa by Saturday. Your answers don’t have to be correct to win, but you must submit a complete list by the deadline to be entered in the drawing for the giveaway. The prize is a free e-copy of her book once it’s published and a $10 gift certificate to either Amazon or Barnes & Noble.

‘Sometimes a single choice alters the course of a person's life forever.’

Come Back
Western Historical Romance
Adult / New Adult
Coming May 2014

Teaser images designed by Carrie Butler, Forward Authority Design Services


Check Melissa’s blog for links to all the questions - HERE

A to Z Theme Reveal

Hosted by Damyanti’s team, you can visit team member Jemima Pett for the full list of participants.

Every year, my theme revolves around featuring my blogger buddies. I wasn’t sure how I would top last year, but I finally hit upon a cool idea –

Retro Feature!

I’m going retro this year – every day will be a movie or music feature (matching the alphabet) that corresponds with a given year.


There will also be fun facts and information with each year – cost of a house, world events, sports, and movies, music, and games released.

Where does the feature come in? Each year was chosen because something significant happened to a blogger buddy that year, and they will be featured!

It’s always a new batch of blogger buddies for the Challenge, but this year it’s wide open, so be watching – you never know who I will feature or when!

Anyone else see Saving Mr. Banks? Excited about the new and upcoming releases? Think you can solve Melissa’s puzzle? What’s your theme for the Challenge? And what do you think of mine?

My work project is almost done, but due to health issues within my family, I will be completely off the grid at the end of this week. (I’ll try to check emails once or twice a day.) My next post will be April 1, day one of the Challenge. Thanks for understanding.

212 comments:

1 – 200 of 212   Newer›   Newest»
L.G. Keltner said...

I love your theme! I can't wait to read your A to Z posts! I think we all understand that health issues within your family have to be your priority for the rest of the week. I hope everything is okay.

Elephant's Child said...

I do hope that your family health issues are resolved quickly.
And I, and your other stalkers, will happily welcome you back.

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

I loved Saving Mr. Banks. I especially loved at the very end, the real audio of the one of the meetings.

Congrats to Melissa.

You have an awesome theme for the A-Z

Heather Musk said...

Great theme! I can't wait to see what retro things you've got.

Hope all is well with the family, see you in April!

Unknown said...

What an exciting theme, I am sure you will put some interesting and intriguing facts together.

I hope things go okay with the family, see you April 1.
Take care.

Hilary Melton-Butcher said...

Hi Alex - I hope all will be well with your family's health issues - I'll be think of you.

I haven't seen Saving Mr Banks yet - but it's definitely one I want to see ..

Well I'm going to learn so much from your postings and the tie ins with all the yearly appropriate facts - should be amazing ... cheers Hilary

Tony Laplume said...

I'm a huge, huge fan of Saving Mr. Banks. Thought it was last year's best movie and all.

Brian Miller said...

ha. that is a pretty cool theme and way to prop up your buddies as well....dig me some retro...have yet to see mr banks, though it is on the list for redbox or the dollar theatre....i hope the health issues are minor alex

Unknown said...

Alex - thanks for sharing my cover today!!

I won't be A-Zing this year. Much too busy. BUT I will be lurking around since I know I'll find some good stuff. Looking forward to your posts.

Anonymous said...

I love your theme! Looking forward to your A-Z posts.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

LG, thank you.

Elephant's Child, thank you, and nice to know I have stalker.

Lynda, that was really cool, wasn't it?

Thanks Heather and Carolyn.

Hilary, I think you will really enjoy them.

Tony, it was really good.

Brian, thanks, and think everything will be all right.

Terri, you're welcome.

Frankie Miller said...

I haven't seen 'Saving Mr Banks' but it sounds as if it's worth seeing. I like the idea of 'letting go of the past'.
I can't wait for your Retro Feature. I know I must be in there somewhere!
I hope your family member will recover. My prayers are with you.

Cathrina Constantine said...

Can't wait to see Saving Mr. Banks. Congrats to Melissa and everyone else. Your theme sounds intriguing, looking forward to it. Family always comes first. I'll keep your family in my heart and prayers.

Laura Pauling said...

I happened to see Saving Mr. Banks in the theater and loved it. It helps that I watched Mary Poppins growing up, so a lot of it felt very nostalgic for me. But the writing and acting was excellent, that's what did it. I loved that one scene between Emma and her driver. I read that the script writer had to write that scene over like 22 times to get it right.

Have with A to Z!

Elizabeth Spann Craig said...

Oh good...glad to hear Saving Mr. Banks is recommended. That's one I was interested in seeing. Nice message, it sounds like, too.

Great theme, Alex! I'll enjoy the blasts from the past.

Melissa said...

Thanks for helping with the contest, Alex. You rock!

Enjoy your break. :)

Vicki Rocho said...

I don't know how you do it. Have you cloned yourself by some chance? Set clone 1 to working on the A-Z, clone 2 returns blog visits, clone 3 collects ninja news while the real Captain Ninja Alex gets to have a job, go to the movies, and tend to family. That's got to be the answer.

Old Kitty said...

Awwwww - sending you and your family lots of healing hugs, positive light and good thoughts! Hope all goes well with you.

Yay for your A-Z theme!! Looking forward to it!

Take care
x

Brandon Ax said...

Love the A-Z theme, as a movie junkie I can't wait to see each post.

I really wanted to see SMB in theaters but couldn't get there. I was wondering if it should be a by or a rent.

Hope all is well with your family, will be praying.

Sandra Ulbrich Almazan said...

Sounds like a fun theme! We haven't officially revealed our theme for Indie Writers Monthly, but we'll be focusing on indie books.

Liza said...

I loved Saving Mr. Banks. Emma Thompson was amazing! I'm looking forward to your A-Z posts too! What fun! Happy Monday, Alex!

Donna K. Weaver said...

Sorry about the family health issues. I hope everything is okay.

We loved Saving Mr. Banks. I thought it did an excellent job of showing how something in a character's past impact how they view the work and his/her interactions with it.

Optimistic Existentialist said...

I like the idea of going retro Alex - can't wait to see what you do with it!

Anonymous said...

your theme looks interesting,
Hope the health issues rights itself soon. Family comes first......well with my family I don't get thought of. So yes, do what you can we all understand,
Yvonne.

Al Penwasser said...

That sounds like a really cool theme. I'm looking forward to seeing what you're going to do with it.

Madeline Mora-Summonte said...

I've got "Saving Mr. Banks" on my To See list - love Paul GIamatti!

We saw "The Book Thief" - absolutely wonderful but tissues definitely required.

I can't wait to read your A-Z posts - your theme sounds like so much fun!

Hope the health issues all work out for the best.

Anonymous said...

You had me at "retro," Alex.

I'm planning on checking out Saving Mr. Banks. The trailer looked quite interesting.

Pat Hatt said...

Still have yet to watch Saving Mr. Banks, have to get on that. A great theme too, movies, music and bloggers together can't lose. Hopefully the health stuff goes for the better as well.

Jo said...

Oh dear, health issues are always a problem and definitely you need to take time to deal with them. I do hope they will be resolved satisfactorily. Good luck with that.

Haven't seen Saving Mr. Banks but certainly intend to do so, I love Emma Thomson and Tom Hanks, neither of them can go wrong in my book.

Your theme sounds like a lot of hard work. You are a glutton for punishment aren't you? Look forward to reading what you write.

Charles Gramlich said...

I don't think Saving Mr. Banks is quite my shot of whiskey. :)

Jean Katherine Baldridge said...
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Jean Katherine Baldridge said...
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Shell Flower said...

Great idea for a theme. I hope your family is doing okay. Glad you are able to go offer support. Take care!

Kirsten said...

Thanks for the review on Saving Mr. Banks! I'm looking forward to checking it out. :)
I hope everyone in your family gets back to healthy soon.
Your theme sounds like a lot of fun!

Julie Flanders said...

So sorry you are dealing with health issues in your family, Alex. I hope all is well soon. Love your theme and look forward to the posts. Take care!

Christine Rains said...

Lots of great news, and that's a very clever way to do a cover reveal. Awesome theme for the Challenge! I hope all will be well with your family.

Luanne G. Smith said...

Still haven't seen Saving Mr. Banks, but will.

And looking forward to your A to Z posts. Always fun. :)

Sarah Ahiers said...

great theme for a to z! And i hope everything is well with the fam

Jay Noel said...

Your A-Z theme is right up my alley. I love that kind of stuff. Really looking forward to it - especially learning more about your blogger buddies.

So it sounds like I should check out Saving Mr. Banks.

Elise Fallson said...

Oh I hope he eats a bug. Congrats Melissa!! And I'm really liking your A-Z theme Alex, very creative and fun! :)

A Beer for the Shower said...

Mr. Banks, not my bag. But going retro? YES. I see many NES games in that picture, which strikes a chord with my inner 80s nerd (who never grew up or went away).

Enjoy time with your family and make sure YOU stay in good health, too.

Juliana Haygert said...

Oh, interesting theme. Bet it's going to be fun!

Unknown said...

Pulling for your family, Alex.

Retro Theme! Yes!! Your cleverness with these challenges is such a treat:)

Melissa's cover reveal puzzle looks fun! Congrats to Pat on #31!!

WriterlySam
Resident Bartender for the A to Z Theme Reveal Party!

Lynda Dietz said...

Glad to hear a recommendation for Saving Mr. Banks. It's on my growing list of need-to-see movies.

I love your theme! You always have something great going on and and terrific about lifting up others.

I'll be praying for your family's issues. Take care of yourself so you can be available for them.

ilima said...

I still haven't seen Mr. Banks though my mom thinks I'll love it. I wish I had more down time. I think the puzzle contest thing is such a fun idea. And I love your theme for A to Z. I'll be sharing writing music--should be simple and different. I hope whatever health issues are going on in your family, everything turns out okay!

Birgit said...

Oh I hope all will go well in your family-health issues are always #1 so my thoughts are with you and your family. I have not seen Mr. Banks yet but we did watch The Butler-It was ok but thought it was a little long and I was underwhelmed. not sure if all the hoopla influenced me. I did watch The Book Thief and that is excellent! It is very moving and made me cry..I think because I was thinking about my mom. Guess what? I did sign up! I am doing somehting easy but if you look at my blog(if you have the time) you will see I am doing old movie stars and I was inspired by my dad who always answered my questions...it would drive my mom nuts:)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Fanny, you just might be...

Laura, even that movie had issues!

Melissa, happy to help!

Vicki, that's how I roll!

Donna, exactly.

Jo, I do like to make it difficult, don't I?

Jay, there will be a few years you really dig.

Brandon and Bryan, mine never went away either.

Karen, yes she did!

Birgit, glad you're on board for the Challenge!

Thanks for the thoughts and prayers, everyone.

Gail said...

Wishing your family good health.

SC Author said...

I'm so sorry to hear about your family, hope they get better soon. And I LOVED that movie. LOVED it! I wanted it to win some Oscars :(

Jeremy [Retro] said...

sshhhhh! thank you. all the best to you and your family. :)

L. Diane Wolfe said...

Family always comes first.

Unknown said...

Love the puzzle piece reveal idea!

Great A-Z theme- should be a lot of fun!

Anonymous said...

Looking forward to your retro themed a-z challenge. The jigsaw puzzle cover contest looks original and fun- well done Melissa

Chemist Ken said...

I don't know. Perhaps one day I'll take on the A to Z Challenge. In the meantime I think I'll just have fun reading yours everyday. I bet you'll put in more work on this challenge than most people put into a whole year's worth of blogging.

Mina Burrows said...

Retro feature sounds cool. I'm sure it will be awesome!

Cindy R. Wilson said...

The retro feature sounds fun--I'm going to have to keep an eye out for it. And now I'm going to HAVE to watch Firefly. I'm tired of everyone referencing it and I have no idea what they're talking about :)

Cherie Reich said...

What a cool idea, Alex!

Saving Mr. Banks looks like a cute movie, although I haven't seen it yet.

The jigsaw cover reveal idea is really neat!

Empty Nest Insider said...

I also thought that Saving Mr. Banks was a wonderful movie! The jigsaw puzzle contest is such an original idea. Speaking of original, I love your retro theme for A to Z! You always go all out for the challenge! Sending lots of good thoughts out to you and your family, Alex.

Julie

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Ken, as usual, my theme turned into a monster as I gathered each post.

Cindy, you must watch it!!

Thanks, Julie.

Thanks everyone!

Suzanne Furness said...

Sorry to hear of your family health issues, sending my best wishes to you.

SK Anthony said...

Saving Mr. Banks is on my watch list, glad you liked it. And.....Retro Feature! Very cool theme ;)

I have to go check out Melissa's blog to see the questions, I'm now intrigued. Best wishes with the health issues in your family. See you on the 1st.

Anonymous said...

Awesome theme. I had forgotten you were posting about it a few days after the reveal. Kept wondering where your post was. LOL

randi lee said...

Alex! I'm a retro girl at heart, so I'll be following your A to Z with great interest. Thanks for the recommendation on Mr. Banks, as well. I was on the fence about that one. Once more, you've swayed me into seeing a movie that I'm sure will appease!

Maurice Mitchell said...

"Saving Mr. Banks" sounds like a great film with a great cast. I will check it out thanks to your recommendation. I love the idea of the puzzle challenge, but the link is dead. Retro theme! I love it!

H. R. Sinclair said...

I love Melissa cover reveal! Very clever.

I hope everything is okay with your family. Take care. Sending healing thoughts your way.

Leovi said...

Yes, I like your theme for A to Z, very interesting and I think it will be fun!

Unknown said...

Hope all goes well at work. I'll be praying for your familys health.

Susan Gourley/Kelley said...

Your theme sounds great and very interesting. Will probably make me feel old. I think I will see Saving Mr. Banks. Love Tom Hanks in most anything.

Karen M. Peterson said...

I loved Saving Mr. Banks. It was one of my favorite movies last year.

Anonymous said...

I love your A to Z challenges, Alex. I look forward to reading your features and meeting new bloggers. Thanks so much for sharing. Maybe I might meet someone who's had an experience like mine one day....

Jamie Dement (LadyJai)
My A to Z Challenge
Caring for my Veteran

Carrie-Anne said...

That's a really ambitious theme for the Challenge. It must've taken a lot of time to put each post together.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Patricia, sorry I was late.

Randi lee, you will really like it.

Maurice, I'll fix the link - thanks.

LadyJai, I hope so.

Thanks everyone!

Laura Clipson said...

That's a great theme, it should make for some interesting posts :)

Sherry Ellis said...

Your retro feature sounds really cool for the A-Z challenge!

Pat Hatt is on a roll with all those books!

Suze said...

Giamatti was excellent in Banks. My husband and I both loved his character and what he brought to the film.

I think your A-Z theme is also excellent. You've got me hooked to see how that'll be done. :)

Michael Offutt, Phantom Reader said...

"Saving Mr. Banks" is on my to watch list.

Susan Kane said...

We really enjoyed "Saving Mr. Banks". We just saw "The Grand Budapest Hotel" and highly recommend it. We are Wes Anderson fans, and he stays true to his quirky humor. Which is why we love him.

Rachel Schieffelbein said...

I saw Saving Mr. Banks with my mom and I really enjoyed it.
Your A to Z topic sounds like a lot of fun! Can't wait to see what all you come up with. :)

Sharon Himsl said...

Saving Mr. Banks was wonderful. I'm in. Actors were so well picked, but you can never go wrong with Tom Hanks and Emma Thompson. Shells–Tales–Sails

Anonymous said...

I love your them and retro is so cool!
Can't wait to read your post.

Elizabeth Seckman said...

Totally understand the need to go off the grid. You take care of your family and we'll eagerly await your return. Prayers that all goes well. If you need anything, don't hesitate to ask!

I think I will wait to rent Mr. Banks. Just doesn't excite me. And I'm not a flashback fan.

I love your theme. I am so jealous. I finally decided to opt out this year. I have a senior prepping for graduation and college enrollment and saying no will keep me sane (well as sane as I can be!)

Karen Lange said...

I was wondering how Saving Mr. Banks was - so thanks for the info and review. Sounds like you have a great theme for A to Z! Can't believe it's almost here.

Hope all goes well with your family member. Will pray.

Vanessa Morgan said...

Love your A to Z challenge. Sounds like a lot of work though.

Andrew Leon said...

Saving Mr. Banks was robbed, I tell you! Robbed!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Suze, he always plays an interesting character. And I knew you would dig my theme.

Thanks, Elizabeth. Sorry you won't be joining us, but know when to say when.

Thanks, everyone.

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

Interesting theme for A to Z. I'll look forward to following.

Saving Mr. Banks sounds like a good movie. Hope to check it out.

Mary Montague Sikes

Jennifer Hillier said...

Alex, I hope everything with you is ok! Sending you good vibes, my friend.

And thanks for the recommendation about Saving Mr. Banks. I was iffy on the premise but I do love Tom Hanks.

mooderino said...

Nice idea for a theme, looking forward to the trip down memory lane.

mood
Moody Writing

Stephsco said...

Your theme should be a fun one! I'll check it out. Mine theme this year is memorable characters from movies, film, books. I actually have a few letters that still need assignments...

I agree Mr. Banks was a little overlong, but it was a good film to see with my mom over Christmas. I also enjoyed the writers' scenes (naturally!) and Emma Thompson is just wonderful.

J.L. Campbell said...

Hi, Alex,
I'm especially looking forward to the music. As usual, lots going on in the book publishing world.

Hope things improve soon for those in your family who are not feeling so well.

Robin said...

Wow. That is quite a theme. I am always amazed at the details you choose. Can't wait...

Gossip_Grl said...

Love your theme and can't wait to find out the movies you've chosen to blog about!

Carol Kilgore said...

Totally, Alex. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers. Since I'll be on a break in April, I'll see you in May.

Jemi Fraser said...

LOVE your theme - you always rock this challenge!! Can't wait :)

Anonymous said...

I'm wishing you and your family the best.

Great theme. I love anything retro.

I love the idea of puzzles for a teaser.

Mark said...

Thanks for posting the review on Mr. Banks, now I'll definitely go see it:)

Dean K Miller said...

Thought the trailer for "Saving Mr. Banks" looked good. I'll take your recommendation and ask for free popcorn at the theater as well.

A To Z challenge: my first year participating. I'm doing a travel themed month from our holida spent on a cruise out of Barcelona, Spain with a couple of extra days at the end, also in Barcelona. Yes, there will be photos of me on a donkey, a camel and a few other surprises.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Stephsco, that's a good one!

Robin, I'm amazed as well...

Carol, thanks, and will miss you.

Dean, those pictures will rock!

Thanks, guys!

SpacerGuy said...

Its funny how the simple stuff works! I'm following Nichole. Saving Mr Banks is a cool movie, not quite what you'd expect. Its unpredictable nature kept me hooked.

Angela Brown said...

I enjoyed your review of Saving Mr. Banks and the various Ninja news shared. Lots going on with bloggy buds all around.

Hope things are okay and will see ya when you returns. Sending prayers your way.

J E Oneil said...

I'm so excited for Melissa's book. I think this is a fun way to do a cover reveal.

I hope whoever is sick gets well soon. See you when the challenge begins :)

Huntress said...

Looking forward to your Retro theme.

Mason Canyon said...

I love your theme for A to Z, can't wait to see what you come up with. I was wondering about Saving Mr. Banks. Glad to know you recommend it. Hope the health issues with your family are better soon.

Nicole said...

Haha, thanks for the shout-out, Alex! That Firefly tip is gold. ;)

Can't wait for your A-to-Z theme. It's always fun to see the old movies.

Denise Covey said...

I heard a lot about Saving Mr Banks when I was in Europe, with interviews with Tom Hanks. I'm looking forward to seeing it.

So much blogger news. Thank you.

Carrie Butler said...

Thanks for the shout-out, Captain! I really appreciate it. :)

I can't wait to read your A-Z posts!

Krista McLaughlin said...

Mention Firefly, that really is a fail-safe tip. :)

I love your theme and I look forward to reading your posts! I'm sitting it out this year due to my book release and I'm considering doing the April Camp NaNo to finish a novella I started, but can't get myself to continue working on. Good luck!

Katherines Corner said...

thinking of you and yours and sending Hugs!

Anna Tan said...

Still haven't watched Saving Mr Banks...

Hope your family's doing well by now!

anna @ Deeply Shallow

Leigh Covington said...

I swear, almost every time I come here, I'm the 111th person to comment. So weird!
But... I'm still dying to see Saving Mr. Banks. Really wanted to see that in the theater, but never made it.

Helena said...

I wanted to see Mr. Banks when it was at the theaters but missed it, so I'll catch it on TV. The new releases sound great, and Melissa's idea for the teaser cover release is just too good!

I hope the health issues with your family are very quickly resolved, Alex. Take care.

Arlee Bird said...

I like the idea of the retro theme because I'm retro.

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

Rawknrobyn.blogspot.com said...

Your A-Z posts are going to be great fun, Alex. I'm looking forward.

xoRobyn

PS Thanks for wishing me chocolate men. They haven't arrived yet, but I'm sure they're on the way.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Nicole, you're welcome!

Carrie, you're welcome!

Krista, hope you finish that story.

Leigh, it's your number.

Lee, hope the years go back far enough for you.

Robyn, keep checking your mail.

Thanks, everyone!

Rhonda Albom said...

Another great theme Alex, I am looking forward to see who you feature.

Anonymous said...

The retro theme is rad. :)

Sorry to hear about the family health issues. Hope everything turns out okay.

Mary Aalgaard said...

My kids liked Saving Mr. Banks. Mary Poppins is one of my favorite movies. Your theme sounds like you did extensive research. It will be fun to read. I'm focusing on food this year. Getting hungry already for the challenge to start!
Play off the Page

Beverly Stowe McClure said...

Oh, I want to see Saving Mr. Banks. Sounds wonderful.

Loni Townsend said...

I love the theme! It sounds like a lot of fun, and I look forward to what you pair up to each letter. It'll be like reminiscing. :)

John Wiswell said...

I've read several people taking aim at Saving Mr. Banks for being too pro-Walt Disney, even calling it propaganda over the conflicts. Did any of that ring true for you, Alex?

Intangible Hearts said...

I'm loving your retro theme idea. Very cool. Yes, I'm looking forward to seeing Saving Mr. Banks but there are so many interesting movies coming out--my list is getting long. Especially since I prefer watching movies at home with a chihuahua in my lap and a bowl of popcorn nearby.

Roland D. Yeomans said...

May those you love soon be well and all be set right with your world.

My theme was going to be my ex-girl friends -- but since most of them are in the Federal Witness Protection Program, I had to let that idea go. :-(

msmariah said...

Alex-- Great ninja news today. I will be thinking and praying for you and your family today (about the health issues). Best wishes.

Unknown said...

I'm dying to see Saving Mr Banks, but will have to wait until it comes on satellite. I'm glad you liked it!

Congrats to Carrie, Pat and Terri!

I love Melissa's puzzle idea! So cute!

Your retro idea is GREAT! It's amazing what things used to cost. I hope you can locate some old advertisements from each time period - those are hilarious!

Nate Wilson said...

Of course, to truly go retro, you'll have to abandon the blog, type up each post, and send it out individually by mail. (Or telegram, depending on how retro you want to be.)

Anyway, I hope the entire Cavanaugh clan is back up to full health soon. Take care.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Mary, a lot more research than anticipated...

Loni, yes it will!

John, I didn't get that vibe. It was more about Travers than anything and focused on her internal conflicts.

Eve, you could smuggle your dog into the theater...

Roland - funny!!

Lexa, I will add that to the list...

Nate, can I record it on 8-track and mail each one?

JJ said...

I have been considering Saving Mr. Banks. Thanks for the review. It helps.

Misha Gerrick said...

I hope those health issues get sorted!

See you when you're back. :-)

Natalie Aguirre said...

Glad you liked Saving Mr. Banks. I want to see it too.

And awesome A-Z challenge idea.

mshatch said...

Excellent theme; can't wait to read :)

Anonymous said...

You know I enjoyed Saving Mr. Banks. Your retro theme sounds like a lot of fun. I'm looking forward to reading your posts and wish you all the best with your family this week. See you at the Challenge, Alex! So looking forward to it this year :)

Cherie Colyer said...

Great theme. I haven't seen Saving Mr. Banks. Congrats to those with Ninja news!

I'm not doing the challenge, but I always enjoy bouncing around to read the posts. =)

cleemckenzie said...

I'm going to have fun making movie lists from your posts during the AtoZ!

Mellissa's cover reveal sounds like a great idea. I'll have to see how smart I am in answering her questions.

Haven't seen Saving Mr. Banks, but since Emma Thompson is one of my favorite actors, I will.

See you April 1

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

MJ, thanks and glad you're on the team.

Lee, it will be a long list...

Thanks everyone!

Theresa Milstein said...

I'm looking forward to your theme! I've never seen Saving Mr. Banks, but I want to.

Yolanda Renée said...

I still haven't signed up for the A to Z, but doesn't mean I won't. Anything is possible. LOL

Good luck! Your theme sounds like fun!

And yeah, I'm getting back to the online groove. Funny how satisfying it is to take a break, yet I hate missing all the fun, but I really miss folks like you.

Wishing you and yours good health!

Kristin Smith said...

Hope all is well with your family. Sending prayers your way!

I'm looking forward to seeing "Saving Mr. Banks" but will wait to rent it. Ever since my husband got his big TV and surround sound, it's almost not worth it to go to the theater! LOL

Love your theme! Going Retro--awesome! I look forward to reading your posts. In the meantime, take care of your family, that's the most important thing. See ya in a week!

Leovi said...

Yes, just the interpretation of Emma Thompson should see the movie Saving Mr. Banks!

S. L. Hennessy said...

That's such a wonderful theme! I can't wait to see what years (and bloggers) you feature!

Nicki Elson said...

I've got retro fevah!!

I enjoyed Saving Mr. Banks too. My favorite, favorite scene was when one of the brothers was singing Feed the Birds and Walt walked in. I'm going to Disney World next, wahoo!

My prayers are with you & your family. See you in A to Z.

klahanie said...

Your retro theme will be most interesting. Although you will know I find the A to Z too much of a clique thing. I do respect all who attempt it. The fact it hijacks the blogging world for all of April is something I'll have to live with.

The most important thing is that your family situation is the priority. Please try and take it easy, Alex.

Gary

Truedessa said...

Alex,

Great retro scheme using music and movies. I'll have to watch for some exciting posts from you. Sorry, to
hear about health issues within the
family..thoughts and positive vibes
heading your way. I am sure you will be missed while you are off the grid.

as I like to say peace & light..

DMS said...

What an awesome post! I can't wait to check out your posts. You did an excellent job coming up with a theme.

Thank for the Saving Mr. Banks review- I have been wanting to see it. Overall- it sounds great! :)

Sorry to hear about the health issues with your family. Hope they are better soon!
~Jess

Tina said...

I think you've outdone yourself on this year's theme...egads, you do like to go the edge of sanity don't you??? LOL. It will be great and I can't wait to meet more of your buddies.
Praying for your parents. Take care, and see you next week.
Tina @ Life is Good
A to Z Team @ Blogging From A to Z April Challenge 2014

Patricia Stoltey said...

You're A to Z theme sounds like a lot of work Alex. I going for short and simple this year, making it very easy on me and super easy on those who come to visit.

Unknown said...

I've been a bit skeptical about Saving Mr. Banks, but I think I'll give it a try now! Praying for the Fam!

Unknown said...

Your theme sounds awesome! Can't wait to check it out. I hope your family feels better soon.

Sheena-kay Graham said...

Yup, it's official, I'm going Retro. On your blog, ha. You think of all sorts of fun and interesting topics Alex. Sadly Mr. Banks took forever to come to Jamaica and then popped in and out. But I always thought the trailers showed a touching movie. That puzzler looks interesting to say the least. Have a great day Alex.

P.S.: I'm also super excited about seeing Divergent on Thursday.

Libby said...

Melissa's puzzle piece is such a cute idea!

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Yolanda, still time. And we've missed you.

Kristin, we have a big screen 3D television, but I still like to hit the theater.

Jess, I really struggled and was happy to finally decide on a theme.

Tina, I'm a glutton for punishment.

Patricia, you have no idea...

Thanks, everyone!

Nigel G Mitchell said...

Haven't seen Saving Mr. Banks,but it looks good

Liz Blocker said...

Oh, great theme! So fun - and so in line with your generous nature. Thanks, Alex; you're such a great blogging buddy, and set such an awesome example for the rest of us!

jaybird said...

Great theme Alex! And how could I (of all people) not understand health issues keeping you away? I sure have had my share this year... hope everything is alright. God willing you'll be back soon and commenting away in no time. Hugs!

PK HREZO said...

Sorry to hear about the health issues in the fam. :(
I have not seem Mr Banks yet but heard the performances are outstanding. I love the theme for your A-Z! That should be lots of fun. :)

Liesel K. Hill said...

Glad you liked saving Mr. Banks. I really want to see it, but haven't gotten a chance, yet.

Sorry about the health issues. I'll pray for your family. See u on the 1st! :D

TL said...

I can't even believe this is the 5th year of A-Z! I signed up for the 2nd and think I managed half the posts, lol. I'm a terrible blogger.

TL said...

Here's hoping to improved health for your family!

Crystal Collier said...

Movie or music, eh? That's leaving the door pretty wide. =)

Here's hoping you and your family are back to peek health by the end of the week. Here, have some cheese to speed the process.

Ella said...

I also love your theme~

I hoped to see this movie-guess Mr. Banks is being saved for Blue-ray.

Sending you my thoughts and prayers, in regards to your family!

Brinda said...

It doesn't surprise me that you are going retro in the A-Z! That fits you, Mr. Cavanaugh. :) I love Carrie Butler's writing and will have to go and grab that book.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Liz, thank you!

Jaybird, appreciate that.

Crystal, some years were challenging, so it gave me options.

Thanks, everyone!

Unknown said...

So sorry to hear about the health issues Alex, will keep you and your family in my prayers.

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

Ooy am I late. But I have a good reason. I installed Mavericks and my mac crashed. Had to pull the macbook out of the closet, then set about trying to remember where I hid the other cords. Oy vey is right. But I digress. Congrats to Carrie and the rest. the covers look great. And I'm so glad you liked Saving Mr. Banks. I was hoping it would be good, but my success ration hasn't been great lately. Happy A-Z challenge, Alex.

Johanna Garth said...

The retro theme sounds really fun and I hope everyone's okay and feeling better soon!

farawayeyes said...

I'm late, as usual.

I didn't really like 'Mr. Banks'. I was troubled by the portrayal of Walt as being so manipulative. Probably true, but I would rather live with my delusions of him.

It must be Spring...all those book releases.

Have fun with the A to Z thing.

Hope all turns out well for you and yours.

Tonja Drecker said...

Ah, Melissa's bringing out a book too! I feel like the world has swept right by me. YAY, Melissa!
I've been wanting to see Saving Mr. Banks but haven't gotten around to it. But you've definitely given me a little nudge :)

M Pax said...

Sounds like a great theme, Alex.

I love Emma Thompson and have a soft spot for Mary Poppins. That movie and memories of my grandmother are synonymous.

Cindy said...

Love the idea with the puzzle pieces...if only I had time to participate.

Tyrean Martinson said...

Saving Mr. Banks is definitely a movie I recommend.
Love your theme!!!
and I'm praying for you and your family.

Annalisa Crawford said...

Your theme sounds great... But how do you know the important years in bloggers lives, are you stalking them???? ;-)

David P. King said...

Awesome theme! I was so hoping to A to Z this year, but the timelords won't have it. I'll be sure to stop by for the retro-awesomeness, though. :)

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Alex -

I saw Saving Mr. Banks and loved it! I'm not much of a movie goer, but I'd go more often if there were more movies like this one.

Susan :)

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Thanks, Melanie.

Joylene, I'm sorry!

Faraway, we'll never know...

Tyrean, thank you.

Annalisa, I've been planning this for months and sent out my clones to gather information...

Morgan said...

Oh shoot… family health problems? Gosh, Alex, I'm so sorry. I hope things will be okay. I hate real life ickies…

And the retro theme is SO YOU. That'll be perfect. You're someone I wish I knew in real life, cuz I think you'd be way fun to talk music with!

Hope everything will be all right! :/

River Fairchild said...

I'm sorry to hear you're dealing with stressful health issues in the family, Alex. I will keep you and yours in my thoughts.

Your A to Z theme sounds like fun! Blasts from the past. :)

Unknown said...

That's an intriguing theme for the April challenge. I hope the health issue within your family is resolved soon.

George Beremov [Nebular] said...

So glad you enjoyed Mr Banks, Alex. I did too. Emma Thompson was absolutely hilarious to watch.

Shah Wharton said...

Sorry about the health issues ... hope all works out.

Great theme! You're full of great ideas.

Saving Mr Banks had me laughing and blowing my nose. A fun emotional movie which offered great insight into one of my fave children's movies. Who didn't love Poppins? :)

Congrats to the newly published, and see you in April.

shahwharton.com

ediFanoB said...

Hi Alex,
The puzzle contest sounds great but I do not have time for that.
I'm happy that I find time to visit a few blogs.

I hope the health issues within your family can be cured soon.

I think you know that your followers are patient.

Mark Means said...

I really liked Saving Mr. Banks. Before seeing it, I had never watched Mary Poppins before and this film corrected that :)

Love your retro theme and am really looking forward to seeing it in action.

Unknown said...

I haven't seen Saving Mr. Banks -- yet -- but it's definitely at the top of my Netflix list as I adore Mary Poppins. Plus, who can resist that cast???

Your theme seems like a really fun and funky way to get to know people better. Very original! Don't think I've come across anything quite like it.

As you are likely aware, I'm participating in AtoZ, as well. My topic is writing in general and my current work-in-progress in particular. See you around!

PS - I received your book in the mail and can't wait to pick up the earlier books in the series so I can read them all back-to-back! Thanks again for hosting such an awesome prize and for hunting me down. YOU ROCK MY SOCKS! :)

Unknown said...

Saving Mr. Banks is one of the few movies I actually want to see. And your theme sounds fun. Enjoy!

Gail said...

Just saw Saving MR. Banks this past weekend. Didn't know anything about it except it was about Disney and wondered for a long while why it was called Saving Mr. Banks. Very clever. I enjoyed it. Great acting all around. Especially like Giamatti. (He lost a ton of weight since I saw him in John Adams!!) Look forward to your challenge posts. My theme for the challenge is Family History. Gail at Making Life An Art

Unknown said...

Awesome theme! Retro, well, I hope you add some Duran Duran, Cars, and Tears for Fears to the mix.

Shannon Lawrence said...

Good luck with all things A-to-Z! I haven't seen Saving Mr. Banks yet, but hope to soon. Not sure if it's out on video yet.

Rachna Chhabria said...

Alex, I hope your family's health issues are resolved quickly. Your A-Z Challenge theme is great.
My A-Z theme reveal post will go up today. My decision to join the Challenge was a bit late. But better late than never.

Catherine Stine said...

I'm doing A to Z this year with the Untethered Realms group and our theme is fantastical creatures. Should be fun. best of luck in dealing with your family health issues. Is it the month for it? I've run across at least three or four bloggers who mentioned the same thing.

Nilanjana Bose said...

I do hope that the health issues are sorted and your family member is recovering well. Best wishes, and thank you.

Nilanjana.

Nicole Zoltack said...

I hope that your family health issues are resolved quickly.

Michael Di Gesu said...

Hey, Alex....

Sorry to hear about you family's health issues... Take care, and I'll be praying for you!

I did feature CassStorm today.. I hope you like the intro. I'll send it to you,, I know the timings off for you right now...

Yes, I did see Saving Mr Banks and LOVED it! Excellent.

Congrats to all and their new books and cover reveals! All the best to you!

Bevimus said...

I wanted to see that movie as soon as I saw the advertisement- Tom Hanks and Emma Thompson together? Sold!

HUGE congrats to Carrie, Pat, Terri and Melissa!

And I'm not at all surprised to see you've selected another rockin' theme this year. Cause you rock.

Unknown said...

Wow, Alex! You did come up with an awesome A to Z theme. You do so much for the blogging community! This will be very exciting. I wish I could have committed to A to Z this year, but I'll definitely be jumping around to read and support =-)

And thanks for the recommendation for Saving Mr. Banks. I'll have to check it out.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Glenda said...

I can not wait to see your posts for the challenge. This is my fist time and I do not have a theme just playing it by ear. hope everything with your family and the health issues work out.

David T List said...

A. I love the Retro idea (and that retro picture!). Looking forward you keeping up with you during April.

B. Firefly!

Tonja said...

I like your idea for A to Z.

Li said...

Awesome theme! Posts involving history/facts perk my ears up! (Well, not literally. At least no one has ever said anything.) It's always fun to compare prices, entertainment and fads from the past. Looking forward to it!

Michelle Wallace said...

I hope the family matters are sorted out...
I'm keeping this short.
Your theme is awesome!
One day till the challenge.
Countdown begins...
10-9-8--------

Anonymous said...

Hope the health issues heal up soon, Alex. Thanks for the IWSG invite, and I'm looking forward to your retro A2Z posts.

Alex J. Cavanaugh said...

Hey guys! Thanks everyone. Happy to be home now. Will catch up with all of you on Monday.

randi lee said...

Hey Alex--stopping by to wish you positive vibes. Hope all is getting better within your family! PS--you might get a double post from me as the first time I sent a comment it disappeared....

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