Diva Las Vegas Baby

Since my pregnancy, I've found great comfort in cozying up in my bed and watching a DVD (to either watch or fall asleep to). Right before the pregnancy, I discovered a wonderful independent film club, Film Movement, which has definitely come in handy. For only $15 a month or so, you get a DVD of an acclaimed independent film in your mailbox, once a month, to keep. And the films have been pretty good so far (I've received 6 films so far). The films come from all over the world, including the US, and tend to be somewhat misty and emotional or melancholy, but still engaging. One night, I settled into bed, our portable DVD player by my side, popped in the latest DVD and was completely shocked when I saw my Mom's name in the credits for casting (The Choking Man)!!! How thrilling!! Check out Film Movement .

Tonight we saw Bette Midler live at Caesar's Palace. It was a thrill to see someone of her legendary and diva status, and she was endearing and adorable and saucy and funny. It was also cool to see a bit of classic Las Vegas with the Showgirls and the glitz, and all without the spectacle and tricks and gymnastics that have become commonplace in Strip entertainment. However, my husband, while he did enjoy seeing Miss M (as she likes to be called), found himself embarrassed by it all, the misogynistic aspect of finding entertainment in scantily clad girls kicking in unison, the fact that as part of our entertainment history the Showgirl phenomenon was once thought of as a good gig (and apparently still is), completely dictated by male desire and appetite, and also the fact that at 62 (and she looks marvelous), even Miss M still has to perpetuate it in her stage show. On the other hand, there were still parts of the show that clearly showcased her zaniness, and perhaps the Showgirls