Time Machine to the Twenties

Homes of the Stars - Part 3

2012-02-10T15:00:00.000-06:00

Homes of the Stars - Part 3

John Gilbert

John Barrymore

Joe E. Brown

Joan Crawford

Jean Harlow

Homes of the Stars - Part 2

2012-02-09T15:00:00.000-06:00

Homes of the Stars - Part 2

Shirley Temple

Norma Talmadge

Norma Shearer

Mary Pickford

Mary Pickford and Douglas Fairbanks

Homes of the Stars - Part 1

2012-02-08T15:00:00.000-06:00

Homes of the Stars - Part 1

Will Rogers

Tyrone Power

Rudolph Valentino

Shirley Temple

Greta Garbo

Betty Grable Goes Green

2012-02-08T09:00:00.000-06:00

[Source: Popular Science; January 1939]

Apparently this was only a problem with very early black and white television. This being a black and white photo, I can't really tell what color they are painting on her. I just wonder who figured it out. Must have been a fun time experimenting. And who knew Betty Grable appeared in such a cerebral publication?

Vintage Book of the Week - Sudden Fear

2012-02-07T21:39:00.000-06:00

Vintage Book of the Week - Sudden Fear by Edna Sherry

Stunner of a pulp! Myra is a famous, middle-aged, rich, bored playwright. One day she saves a woman from drowning. To gain inspiration for her next play, Myra brings the girl to her home where Myra lives with her young husband. Naturally Myra's 'philanthropy' goes awry when she plays her tape recorder. On it, Myra hears her 'beloved husband' and 'guest' Irma plotting Myra's murder. A race against time of whom will murder whom first. Loved it from start to finish. Definitely kept me guessing as to what the truth was and who would get murdered first.

It's no wonder this book was turned into a film. The 1952 stars the fabulous Joan Crawford, Jack Palance, and Gloria Grahame. I can definitely see Joan Crawford in the role of Myra. I haven't seen the film yet, but hope to if it gets cheaper. It was nominated for Academy Awards for Best Actress (Joan Crawford), Best Supporting Actor (Jack Palance), Best Cinematography (Black and White), and Best Costume Design (Black and White).

On a side note, the book mentioned Schiaperelli clothing about 100 times. I'm not sure if she paid them or if the author is obsessed with them, but here are a couple gorgeous gowns from Schiaperelli.

Ilona's Project is 'Top Secret'

2012-02-07T16:28:00.000-06:00

Hungarian-born Ilona Massey will be star and co-producer of a new television show. It's name: Top Secret

[Source: People Today; June 29, 1955]

I researched and found no evidence that this show was ever produced.

Betty Hutton Causes a Traffic Jam

2012-02-06T15:59:00.000-06:00

Betty Hutton was in top frenzy when she appeared in an act at Sydney, Australia, stadium in a Charleston costume of the '20's. Traffic became jammed on streets near the stadium.

[Source: People Today; June 29, 1955]

Gloria and Ricardo Try Broadway

2012-02-04T15:53:00.000-06:00

Gloria DeHaven and Ricardo Montalban both Hollywood stars, made the long leap to their first New York stage appearance in 'Seventh Heaven', latest Broadway hit.

[Source: People Today; June 29, 1955]

While People Today calls this a Broadway hit, it closed after a mere 44 performances at the ANTA Playhouse.

Martine Carol Shocks the Censors

2012-02-03T15:37:00.000-06:00

Martine Carol as Lola Montez

Martine Carol, whose nude movie scenes have stirred censors' ire, is now playing the role of Lola Montez in a film story of the torrid romance between the dancer and Bavaria's King Ludwig I. It is her last role in Europe before moving on to Hollywood productions.

[Source: People Today; June 29, 1955]

Martine Carol as Lola Montez

Martine Carol (16 May 1920 – 6 February 1967) was a French film actress who reached the height of her fame in the early 1950s. At the time, her fame eclipsed that of Bridget Bardot. She had a troubled personal life including 4 marriages, drug addiction, and failed suicide attempts (including throwing herself into the Seine river in Paris). She died at age 46 of cardiac arrest in Monaco. Another interesting footnote is her grave was robbed, the thieves thinking she was buried with jewels. Currently she lies undisturbed in Cannes.

Martine Carol as Lola Montez

Lola Montez (17 February 1821 – 17 January 1861) was a dancer, courtesan, and mistress of Ludwig I of Bavaria. Ludwig made her Countess of Landsfeld. During the German revolution of 1848, she fled to the United States and became a lecturer and entertainer.

Lola Montez

Burt Lancaster's Directorial Debut

2012-02-02T14:51:00.001-06:00

Burt Lancaster's debut as a film director will be in The Kentuckian, which also stars him. The film is a frontier adventure story, which will be released in August.

[Source: People Today; June 29, 1955]

Paulette Goddard on Home

2011-12-14T02:47:00.000-06:00

Paulette Goddard

World traveler Paulette Goddard, to columnist Earl Wilson, about her Hollywood home: "It's a wonderful place for my paintings and my loot."

[Source: Quick Magazine; November 17, 1952]

Jimmy Durante's Dream Presidential Cabinet

2011-12-13T02:22:00.000-06:00

Jimmy Durante

Jimmy Durante, on his dream Presidential Cabinet:

Rita Hayworth

State Secretary Rita Hayworth - "She'd clean up our foreign affairs - to say nuttin' of a few domestic ones, too!"

Ava Gardner

Labor Secretary Ava Gardner - "Any man would wantta form a union wit her. I'd insist on a closed shop."

Corinne Calvet

Agriculture Secretary Corinne Calvet - "Why, da farmers wouldn't ask for subsidies. They'd pay them!"

Marilyn Monroe

Interior Secretary Marilyn Monroe - "Her exterior ain't bad neither."

Zsa Zsa Gabor

Army Secretary Zsa Zsa Gabor - "Any man would fight for dis girl!"

[Source: Quick Magazine; November 17, 1952]

Mae West on the new "Mae West"

2011-12-12T02:15:00.000-06:00

Mae West with a "Mae West"

Mae West, viewing the Navy's latest "Mae West" life-jackets, now colored red instead of yellow: "I understand they can be seen from a great distance. That's another thing we have in common."

[Source: Quick Magazine; July 28, 1952]

Gotta love Mae West!

Orson Welles as Othello

2011-12-11T02:07:00.000-06:00

Othello Poster

Orson Welles, on one of his recent films: "I starred in Othello because I was the only star I could afford to hire."

[Source: Quick Magazine; July 28, 1952]

Lionel Barrymore tells it like it is

2011-12-10T01:52:00.000-06:00

Lionel Barrymore

Lionel Barrymore: "Acting is acting. It hasn't changed. The only change has been in the audiences which, I must say, have gotten lousier and lousier."

[Source: Quick Magazine; November 10, 1952]

Amanda's Opinion - I have to agree with the fabulous Mr. Barrymore, but I don't think there are that many actors left either. We have celebrities - not actors. I can count on one hand the number of people who "act" on film which I would consider actors.

Ursula Thiess's First Film

2011-12-09T01:30:00.000-06:00

Ursula Thiess

Actress Ursula Thiess, telling columnist Earl Wilson about her forthcoming film in which she swims nube: "It was my first picture and I did what they told me."

[Source: Quick Magazine; January 5, 1953]

Ursula Thiess

Ursula Thiess (May 15, 1924 - June 19, 2010) born in Hamburg, Germany. RKO brought her to America for a test in 1952 and she was voted most promising newcomer by Modern Screen (along with Marilyn Monroe). While starring in a mere 5 films, she is probably best known for her marriage to Robert Taylor. They met on a studio-arranged blind date. They fell in love and were married May 24, 1954 until Taylor's death on June 8, 1969. She had 2 children with Taylor. Ursula basically retired from the screen after she married Taylor and concentrated on her family. Her last screen appearance was in 1972.

Robert Taylor and Ursula Thiess

Superstitions of the Stars

2011-12-08T20:10:00.000-06:00

Superstitions of the Stars

Rita Hayworth

Rita Hayworth would slip a shiny new dime under the garter of her left leg for luck before stepping on a movie set.

Mae West

Mae West made everyone who whistled in her dressing room stand in the corner and spit three times

Bette Davis

Bette Davis thinks whistling in a dressing room is bad luck too, and pushed Jack Warner from her dressing room he whistled Hallelujah

Edwin Booth as Hamlet

Rumor has it that the superstition about whistling in a dressing room originated from the urban legend that actor Edwin Booth was whistling Dixie in his dressing room when his brother, John Wilkes Booth assassinated Abraham Lincoln.

[Source: Point; August 1954]

Clifton Webb on California

2011-12-07T01:24:00.000-06:00

Clifton Webb

Clifton Webb, visiting New York City from balmy Hollywood: "California is beautiful. So is a rose. But I can look at a rose for just so long and then I want to spit on it."

[Source: Quick Magazine; January 5, 1953]

Bea Lillie on Television

2011-12-06T19:57:00.000-06:00

Bea Lillie: "Television has grown up to be just summer stock in an iron lung."

[Source: Point; August 1954]

Ouch! Beatrice Lillie (May 29, 1894 – January 20, 1989) is known as being an amazing talent. She shined on stage. She is an amazing woman and entertained the troops during WWII - even on the day she found out that her only son had perished in action. Best known for her Tony Award winning 1953 revue An Evening with Beatrice Lillie. She retired from the stage due to Alzheimer's.

Anita Loos Remains a Brunette

2011-12-05T19:27:00.000-06:00

Anita Loos, author of Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, when asked why she remained a brunette: "Personally, I don't prefer gentlemen."

[Source: Point; August 1954]

Anita Loos and Jean Harlow

Anita Loos was the author or contributor to some of my favorite films such as Red-Headed Woman, Another Thin Man, The Women, Susan and God, and When Ladies Meet.

John Emerson and Anita Loos

Loos had two troublesome marriage: First, to Frank Palma, Jr (from 1915-1919); and secondly to actor, writer, director John Emerson (married from 1919 to his death in 1956). Emerson and Loos never officially divorced, but their marriage consisted of economic strife and Emerson's mental illness.

Elaine Stewart on Bachelors

2011-12-04T19:18:00.000-06:00

Elaine Stewart: "A bachelor I know decided to reform. The first day he cut out cigarettes. The second day he cut out liquor. The third day he cut out women. The fourth day he cut out paper dolls."

[Source: Point; August 1954]

Fred Allen on Poise

2011-12-03T19:08:00.000-06:00

Fred Allen: "Poise? That's the ability to continue talking while the other fellow picks up the check."

[Source: Point; August 1954]

Groucho on Skywriting

2011-12-02T18:58:00.000-06:00

Groucho Marx, to a skywriter contestant on his TV show: "When you're up there writing do you ever get the impression that someone is looking over your shoulder?"

[Source; August 1954]

Jack Benny and Groucho Marx doing a 'You Bet Your Life' skit on 'The Jack Benny Show'

What Bob Hope thinks of Bridegrooms

2011-12-01T18:54:00.000-06:00

Bob Hope's definition of a bridegroom: "A wolf who paid too much for his whistle."

[Source: Point; August 1954]

Eva Gabor Loves Women

2011-11-30T18:45:00.001-06:00

Eva Gabor: "I'm glad I'm a woman. As Grandpa used to say, 'Always be satisfied with your own sex, or you'll never be satisfied with anyone else's"

[Source: Point; August 1954]

Recent Items for Sale on Etsy and Amazon

2011-11-30T00:40:00.001-06:00

Recent Items for Sale on my Etsy and Amazon sites.

Card with a piece of Mae West clothing on Etsy

5 Vintage 1930s Newspaper Inserts of Irene Dunne, Robert Montgomery, Jean Arthur, Fred MacMurray, and Bette Davis on Etsy

Some reproduction Godeys watercolor prints on Etsy

How to Draw the Muppets on Amazon

Some Laugh-In DVDs on Amazon

Or try some fun gambling on a Vintage Slot Machine on Etsy

Or a Vintage Black Jack Machine on Etsy

Thanks, kudos, and a pox on Comcast!

2011-11-28T00:43:00.000-06:00

I just want to apologize to everyone for the sporadic posts on this blog. As my loyal followers know, I've had some traumatic issues the past few years and just haven't had the energy or the joy I used to. With another major project done, I hope to find that zest for life I used to have. Loneliness and uselessness surround me and I have found little to keep me going. It's difficult trying to find a new life purpose. One thing I have been doing is reading every book in my home and donating or selling those I think I would never read again. I set a goal of 500 books for 2011. I decided to do this to make more room in my home and help pass on the joy the books gave me to others. I hope to go through all of my books and magazines within a few years). I've made it up to 450 books, and hopefully I make it through the last 50 in the next few weeks. I assume this will be quite difficult because of the Christmas season, but it's worth a shot.

Girl Selecting Book - circa 1900

In honor of Thanksgiving (of which I hope you all had a fabulous one), I'm Thankful for all of my beloved followers. And on a personal note, my family and devoted husband who not only have stood by me and believed in me, but helped me find the will to carry on. And of course, my husband's culinary skills which were exhibited today when we two celebrated Thanksgiving in our household.

Thanksgiving - 1925

I'd love to give thanks to the blog Allure, which I noticed did a feature last May on one of my distant ancestors Helen Mack. I've been keeping busy doing a bit of genealogical research, and found her on the tree. Now I've just got to check out her films.

Helen Mack

On another note, I'd like to boo Comcast or Xfinity or whatever they are called now. I just received a postcard saying they are moving Turner Classic Movies to a higher package, which of course I can't afford. In exchange, they are giving us BBC America which would have been cool a few years ago, but now BBC just basically shows all day marathons of Battlestar Gallactica and Top Gear. Whatever happened to the Britcoms and trashy British soaps? Probably went the way of every cable channel which does not stay to its alleged mission and just shows cheap garbage. So a pox on them!

1940s Living and Dining Room Necessities

2011-11-27T00:09:00.001-06:00

1940s Living Room Necessities

1 divan, sofa, or love seat
2 upholstered chairs - at least one of them should be "man-of-the-house" style
3 tables - 1 coffee, the others lamp or end tables
1 rug or rugs
1 radio
1 mirror
1 desk
1 desk chair
lamps
curtains
draperies
pictures
plants

*Aside from the radio, lamps, and chairs I think I'm set. Minus the plants, of course. Plants and I just just don't get along.

1940s Wherever You Eat Necessities

1 table - drop-leaf, pie-crust, bridge, or other
4 chairs

Table Linen
2 bridge sets with napkins
4 place mat sets with napkins - have at least 1 cork or plastic set
2 breakfast cloths with napkins
1 lace runner or doily set with napkins to harmonize
1 dinner cloth with 8 napkins
1 table pad

China
5 or 9 butter plates
5 or 9 dinner plates
5 or 9 salad plates
5 or 9 cereal dishes - use also for fruit
5 or 9 cups and saucers - more if you like bit parties
1 platter - round or medium oval
1 salad bowl
1 teapot and/or coffeepot
1 creamer and sugar
2 pair salt and peppers - unless you have a silver one

* I've virtually nothing in these categories - except for everyday stuff. When it's just the two of us, it's hard to think about serving dishes and proper China.

Glassware Section of Hardware Store - 1943

Glassware
5 or 9 tumblers
5 or 9 highball glasses - use for iced beverages too
5 or 9 cocktail glasses - use for juices too
5 or 9 sherbet glasses

Silver
4 or 8 cream soup spoons
4 or 8 teaspoons - more are always handy
4 or 8 luncheon or dinner forks
4 or 8 luncheon or dinner knives
4 or 8 salad forks
4 or 8 butter spreaders
6 serving pieces
1 steak set
1 carving set
2 candle sticks - unless you have glass or china ones

*Just everyday stuff in these categories, too. My glassware is good. It's funny, but that was what we received most as a wedding gift. The only trouble is that we never entertain and have maybe 1 drink per month. I'm not sure why everyone thought we were booze-hounds.

[Source: Making Housekeeping Easy; Dorothy Lois Abel; Funk and Wagnalls Company; New York; 1948]

Favorite Actors - Part 1

2011-10-28T13:16:00.000-05:00

Favorite Actors - Part 1

Don Ameche
Fun in films like That Night in Rio
Fabulous on the Radio - Wonderful Voice

Dana Andrews
Great in films
Fantastic on Radio - Another Wonderful Voice

Bob Bailey
Radio God - Yours Truly Johnny Dollar

John Barrymore
Stage and Silent Movie God
I melted when I saw Don Juan

Lionel Barrymore
Stage and Screen Legend
Fabulous Radio Voice

Humphrey Bogart
Casablanca, Maltese Falcon, and many, many more
My favorite Bogart film - Dark Passage

Jack Carson
Great character actor
Favorite films - Mildred Pierce and Romance on the High Seas

Ronald Colman
Screen Legend and Radio God
Favorite Films include Random Harvest, A Tale of Two Cities, The White Sister
Radio appearances on The Jack Benny Show and The Halls of Ivy with wife Benita Hume , as well as appearances on Suspense such as in August Heat
OK, basically everything

Richard Conte
Great gritty actor
Favorite films - The Blue Gardenia, Somewhere in the Night, and especially Call Northside 777 (his character and characterization really spoke to me)

Errol Flynn
Swashbuckler extraordinaire
He's fabulous in adventures, westerns, war films, etc.
I wish he was known more for his wonderful acting rather than his bedroom antics.

Clark Gable
Fell in love with him since I saw him as Rhett Butler in Gone With the Wind
I also adore him in It Happened One Night

Cary Grant
Fantastic in everything - Who doesn't love Archie?
Favorite films - North by Northwest, The Bachelor and the Bobby-soxer, and Arsenic and Old Lace

Visit Deanna Durbin's House - Part 2

2011-10-27T11:57:00.000-05:00

And now, it's back to visit with the lovely Deanna Durbin:

Gorgeous Living Room

Hear Deanna Play

Perhaps She Might Even Sing for You

Or Answer Your Fan Letter

Sorry to Bother You, I Guess it's Time to Go.
Au Revoir for Now from the Delightful Deanna Durbin.

Weird Wednesday - Paper Comb to the Rescue!

2011-10-26T14:00:00.000-05:00

Popular Mechanics; January 1924

Hair sanitation was an issue in the 1920s just as much as it is today. I can't tell you how much I cringe at the thought of sharing my hairbrush with a family member - let alone the brushes at the salon. At school, they seemed to address the problem, on picture day at least, by giving everyone their own little comb when I was kid in the 1980s. Do give out combs on picture day anymore I wonder? I have to say that a paper comb would never do with my hair. As thick as it is, I can barely get a regular comb to go through my hair let alone a paper one. I just envision paper shreds all through my hair.

Women Combing Their Hair circa 1900

A Visit to Deanna Durbin's House - Part 1

2011-10-25T11:51:00.000-05:00

Welcome to Deanna Durbin's House!

The View from the Exterior is Lovely

Deanna Humbly Welcomes You

Lovely Stonework

Gorgeous Archways

Embracing Statues

Fun Place to Exercise

Swing!

Cute Pool House

Large Pool

Great for Swimming Laps . . .

Or Just Playing

Dive Into Adventure with the Lovely Deanna Durbin!

Esther Williams

2011-10-09T19:00:00.000-05:00

Esther Williams, 1944

Grace McDonald - Survivor

2011-10-09T01:36:00.000-05:00

Grace McDonald

Born in Boston or New York (depending on the source) June 15, 1918
Born Grace McDonell
Began straining in ballet and voice at age 8
At age 11, she became ill and lost much use of her legs. She was in bed an entire year, but began training again only to suffer a relapse after 1 month. She spent another year in bed without the use of her legs. Her brother, Ray, would practice his tap and ballet by her sickbed which encouraged Grace to use her toes and muscles in bed to her brother's steps. Gradually she was able to dance again and never looked back [Source: New Physical Culture, November 1944]
Made her debut in vaudeville at age 14
Reached Broadway as a team with her brother Ray as a star dance in "Babes in Arms"
Signed with Universal in 1940 and made many B pictures, many vehicles for the Andrews sisters.
Retired from films in 1945 to become a mother. She had 3 children with her marine husband, Ralph Green and moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota
Passed away from double pneumonia on October 30, 1999 in Scottsdale, Arizona

Check out Grace dancing at 2:20

Check out her brother Ray dancing with then wife Peggy Ryan

Dry Skin Tips from Madame Sylvia

2011-10-03T16:41:00.002-05:00

Madame Sylvia's Dry Skin and Face Tips

Remove all foreign matter very thoroughly from the surface of the skin.
Take a piece of absorbent cotton and apply a mild face wash to the skin, instead of soap and water
Wipe away the face wash with a soft cloth
Follow steps 1 - 3 with a feeding cream (I imagine this must be cold cream). Pat the cream gently all over the face - do not rub it in! Pat the cream on your face until you feel the tingle of blood rising to the surface
Leave the cream on for at least one half hour.

My personal favorite insight from Madame Sylvia: "If you have a husband or better reason for wanting to be presentable at a late hour, remove as much cream as you wish."

In the morning, take your face wash, lave the face thoroughly and dry with a soft towel.
You should have a good astringent lotion. Pat it gently and use it as your powder base.

*Those with dry skin should have a weekly facial massage to stimulate the skin glands.

Weird Wednesday: The Birth of the Vanity Mirror

2011-09-22T01:54:00.000-05:00

[Source: Modern Mechanix; February 1933]

I knew there was something missing from my car. Who knew it was a mirror in the dash ? Apparently this 1933 article is way ahead of its time because vanity mirrors are in every car these days. I like how they brought up the safety aspect. Maybe I'll have to think about my "vanity" mirror differently.

Madame Sylvia Loves Cold Baths

2011-09-21T00:37:00.000-05:00

It's Cold Baths Only for Madame Sylvia

Don't take a hot bath - "It is a cold bath that is resting."

Only take baths in cold or lukewarm water

Cold baths are therapeutic and combat insomnia

Cold baths are an astringent and tighten your skin

After your bath, take a rough towel or glove and rub yourself vigorously for 10 minutes

[Source: Hollywood Undressed; Page 227]

Least Favorite Actresses Part 2

2011-09-19T23:08:00.000-05:00

Least Favorite Actresses - Part 2

Shirley MacLaine

Jean Simmons

Jennifer Jones

Betsy Drake

Jayne Mansfield

Mamie Van Doran

Marie Wilson

Some I just find annoying like Betsy Drake, some just don't seem to have enough fire in them like Jennifer Jones, and apparently I don't like the dumb blond persona of Jayne, Mamie, and Marie.

Up next - I'll pick on the men.

Stars With Scripts - Elizabeth Taylor

2011-08-29T21:52:00.000-05:00

Weird Wednesday - Mousetrap Nail Guards

2011-08-25T23:14:00.003-05:00

[Source: Popular Science; April 1940]

I'm not sure why Popular Science was highlighting this, nor why this was invented. It looks like little mousetraps on your fingers. Why must every strange invention look painful? I think I'd take my chances with my nail polish smearing.

Digestive Disorder Diet Courtesy of Madame Sylvia

2011-08-24T23:17:00.007-05:00

Madame Sylvia's Digestive Disorder Diet

(from Hollywood Undressed circa 1930s)

A Mid-day Dinner

Vegetable Broth

Cold Boiled Ham

Noodles boiled 10 to 20 minutes (follow instructions on packet) and serve with a pat of butter

Stewed fruit

Supper

Clabber and hot or cold boiled potatoes (lots of clabber and little potato)

Stewed fruit

Clabber is a curdled milk food, kind of like yogurt, brought to the American south from Scottish immigrants. It is eaten at breakfast with maple syrup, nutmeg, brown sugar, cinnamon, fruit, black pepper, or cream. It can be used in recipes to replace yogurt or buttermilk.

Unpasteurized Clabber Recipe (from The Nourishing Cook)

"Start with farm fresh raw milk (unpasteurized), a week or two old. Leave your milk on the counter in a jar (sealed) for 2-3 days in a warm spot until solids appear. Shake it to see if it’s turned thick. It should not yet be separated. If the milk is still mostly white when shaken, and has turned thick, it is done clabbering. Store your clabbered milk in the refrigerator. If you leave the milk on the counter longer, it will separate turn into curds and whey. If this happens, drain off they whey and cream cheese and use in your favorite recipes."

Pasteurized Clabber Recipe (from Wegottaeat)

INGREDIENTS

1 part active, cultured buttermilk

7 part warmed whole milk

SPECIAL EQUIPMENT

non-reactive container (ceramic, glass or stainless steel)

DIRECTIONS

1. combine buttermilk and milk in a container and allow the mixture to ferment at room temperature until it thickens and sours, at least overnight and possibly up to 36 hours. refrigerate to stop fermentation once it has reached desired texture and piquancy,

NOTES:

note that this is not the same as just adding an acid to pasteurized milk, which will also curdle milk proteins but will not be as smooth or as thick. using buttermilk re-introduces the culture back into the pasteurized milk which allows it to curdle to a thicker consistency.

sourness comes from the lactid acid produced by the bacteria which also causes the milk-solid proteins, caseins, to curdle. the acids kill harmful bacteria and also break down the proteins making it easier for the body to digest. beneficial for those who are lactose-intolerant.

supermarket milk has been heated and held briefly at the elevated temperature (pasteurized) to destroy the bacterias as well as the enzymes which help the digestion of the milk proteins. without the bacteria, the fermentation process necessary to make clabbered milk cannot occur, therefore the need to introduce a live culture.

Least Favorite Actresses Part 1

2011-08-21T15:12:00.004-05:00

Since I've done a best actresses list, I thought I'd do a least favorite actresses list. I did not take personal life into account, this is simply based on their on screen appearances. I know many people's favorites are on this list, but these actresses just rub me the wrong way.

Jean Arthur

Can't stand the voice!

Tallulah Bankhead

Leslie Caron

Arlene Dahl

Jane Fonda

Greta Garbo

Too cold

Audrey Hepburn

Katherine Hepburn

Weird Wednesday - Snazzy Sun Protection

2011-08-17T22:09:00.004-05:00

[Source: Popular Science February 1933]

I have to say I hate getting my nose sunburned, but I can't imagine that I would wear this beauties. I'll stick with good old sunscreen. It's not a beauty thing, but I can't imagine being able to see out of this things.

My Favorite Actresses - Part 2

2011-08-17T21:07:00.012-05:00

My Favorite Actresses - Part 2

Paulette Goddard

Myrna Loy

Agnes Moorehead

Jean Peters

Jane Powell

Ginger Rogers

Jane Russell

Norma Shearer

Ann Sheridan

Ann Sothern

Esther Williams

Madame Sylvia's Diet Rule

2011-08-16T23:07:00.017-05:00

Madame Sylvia's Diet Rules [Source: Hollywood Undressed, 1930s]:

Eggs
"Dangerous on account of American distribution methods which provide the public with stale eggs. To be used only when they are certified to be not more than 24 hours old. Soft boiled, poached or incorporated in custards."

A - Living in the city, I would have no idea how old my eggs were. Definitely sure they are older than 24 hours.

Fruit

"With the exception of certain berries which disagree with particular constitutions, all are excellent. However, when there is reason to suspect disorders of the digestive tract, they should be stewed, through no longer than it takes the sugared water to come to a boil."

A - I adore fruit. As a child I was not a fan, but now that I'm older, they are a definite treat. When you don't have much money, like myself, they are one of the few luxuries and are rationed. I only can have a bit with dinner. Fresh berries are my favorite and that box has to last several days. A close second is apples from the orchard. I can't wait for apple season!

Condiments and Sauces

"Always to be suspected, salt fattens. Peppers, mustard, etc. are indigestible. Any sauce which has been fried is vile. Prefer mineral and neutral vegetable oils to olive oil. For vinegar substitute lemon juice. Avoid cocktail sauces with the exception of the plain and pure juices which are erroneously called cocktails."

A - I personally can't stand condiments. I'm a no sauce girl - the drier the better! It's no for me on mustard, mayo, cocktail sauces, salad dressings, white sauces, most sauces, etc. Basically the only sauces I like are ketchup and barbecue sauce. I couldn't do without salt. Total salt addict. I definitely would need cooking oil. Couldn't do without that. I haven't tried cooking with mineral oil. Apparently you can use it and it has no calories, but I guess it's a really good laxative, so I'll stick to my vegetable and olive oil.

Sea Foods

"With the exception of "lean" fish, they are generally to be avoided - especially the crustaceans."

A - Not a huge fan of seafood. Out of the seafood family, I only eat fish like sunnies, walleye, and halibut. No shrimp, crab or lobster (not that I could afford it!_.

Noodles

"Despite their starch content, they are non-fattening when eaten plain-boiled with melted butter. Helpful in all conditions involving irritation of the digestive tract."

A - Couldn't make it without noodles. Pasta is life giving, cheap, filling, and I have it at least a few times a week. I do eat it with only butter; or with just a bit of olive oil; or just a spoonful of spaghetti sauce. I'm talking about probably only a tablespoonful.

Up next - Sylvia's digestive disorder diets

Favorite Actresses - Part 1

2011-08-16T22:37:00.015-05:00

Here is a partial list of my favorite actresses, not necessarily the best, but I enjoy nearly every film they are in and know that if they are in the cast, I'm going to love it.

Eve Arden

Ann Blyth

Jeanne Crain

Joan Crawford

Yvonne DeCarlo

Alice Faye

Joan Fontaine

Betty Grable

Jean Harlow

Rita Hayworth

Weird Wednesday: Freckle Freezeoff

2011-08-03T23:33:00.004-05:00

[Source: Modern Mechanix; February 1933]

This doesn't sound like a fun process. I'll just keep my freckles! Although, it might be nice to have a little freeze in this hot weather.

Weird Wednesday: Vibrating Curling Iron

2011-07-27T22:50:00.005-05:00

Popular Science, 1940

Looks complicated, but I wonder if it really worked? Can't say I'd be at ease in that situation. And how much vibration are we talking about? Was it jarring, or more like an electric toothbrush? I have to say the woman testing out this vibrating curling iron does not look like she is comfortable.

Sylvia's Diet Lore 2 - Vegetables and Butter

2011-07-10T00:07:00.002-05:00

More Diet Lore According to Madame Sylvia

Vegetables

Should be boiled or steamed in only as much water as will prevent burning and should be cooked no longer then is necessary to make them palatable.
The better parts of vegetables being absorbed in the cooking waters, preserve all these for making the pure vegetable broths and soups you should habitually eat.

Butter

Harmless in small quantities if never cooked. Therefore, butter should always be added to hot dishes with which it is served; yet before they go to the table.
Sweet butter is best and can always be obtained in Jewish store.

Sylvia's Diet Lore 1 - Meat and Fish

2011-07-01T23:42:00.007-05:00

Thought I'd return to a popular topic from a few years ago, Madame Sylvia of Hollywood and her tips. So here is day 1 of Sylvia's Diet Lore:

Meat

Pay no attention to meatless diet fads
Broil or roast the leaner meats in such a way as to eliminate the fats, first by cutting away the visible excess fat before cooking and, second, by taking the measures I have described for eliminating contact between meat and their drippings.
Do not boil meats. However you may eat cold-boiled ham as often as you wish.

Fish

Incontiadistinction to meats, fish should be boiled. Only the lean varieties should be used. No idea what this means. I assume it refers to indigestion or kidney problems or something like that. I couldn't even find a definition for it.

Also, I'm offering a coupon at my store. Just enter code FOURTH704 until 11:59 pm central time on July 4th to get a 5% discount. Prices and shipping prices recently lowered.

Some gems include:

Coming Soon: "We Were Strangers" novel, vintage burlesque skirt, and some more pulp novels including River Barge Virgin.

Book Review: Tomb of the Ten Thousand Dead

2011-06-20T23:48:00.004-05:00

I have to say I have never read any of L. Ron Hubbard's books. Not a huge fan of sci-fi and there is that whole Scientology issue, but I have to say this was a ripping good read. I'm glad I received an Early Review copy because I had no idea what an exciting author Hubbard was. "Tomb of the Ten Thousand Dead" is an action-packed adventure ride centered on a treasure map from Alexander the Great. He left jewels in the Indian desert in a tomb which has yet to be found. Captain Charles Gordon's quest is incredibly exciting and fast paced. Loved it.

The book also includes two other short stories, "Price of a Hat" and "Starch and Stripes". In "Price of a Hat", a Russian hat brings death wherever it goes, but what is the mysterious secret it hides? The fall of the Russian Monarchy takes center stage in a classic question of "What if?". I found this story utterly fascinating and a wonderful read. I'm not much of a fan of military stories so I wasn't a huge fan of "Starch and Stripes", but it was well written.

On the whole, this was a great adventure read and a must for anyone who is a fan of pulps, life myself. The cover looks exciting and definitely captures the feel of the book. A wonderful glossary and section of L. Ron Hubbard's contribution to pulp literature accompanies the book. A definite keeper. I can't wait to read the rest of the series!

Judy Garland Works It Out

2011-04-25T23:06:00.002-05:00

Judy Garland
“Somebody told me I work as if I have only ten minutes left in which to do everything.”

(Source: Movieland; February 1955)

Are Keefe and His Wife Separating?

2011-04-17T23:46:00.006-05:00

Keefe Brasselle, Cary Grant and ? at the Ciro's Opening

Keefe Brasselle
Is keeping those separation rumors quiet by taking his wife along with him on the road of personal appearances. Although “The Eddie Cantor Story” didn’t do much for Keefe, don’t count him out of movies. He’s in there pitching every minute of the day and with such persistence, luck is bound to fall his way.

(Source: Movieland; February 1955)

Keefe Brasselle and Arlene DeMarco

Keefe Brasselle was married twice. First from December 18, 1942 until December 6, 1956 to Norma Jean Aldrich (which the above gossip refers to). Keefe was married to Arlene DeMarco of the DeMarco Sisters singers from December 23, 1956 to 1967.

Edmund and Tita's Marriage Drama

2011-04-16T00:01:00.010-05:00

Edmund Purdom
Looked like a sure bet when he took over the acting part of “The Student Prince” for Mario Lanza. Now he’s rapidly approaching the point where he is the subject of as much discussion as Lanza, who, by the way, is really on the road to recovery and may yet do “The Vagabond King” with Kathryn Grayson. You’d think Purdom would be a model of co-operation because of the tremendous break he received but those temperament rumors have been circulating about Edmund almost from the time he started “The Student Prince”. His wife, Tita, worked as a ballerina to help support the family during their lean days but she gave up her career to take care of their children after Edmund started clicking. Now, Mrs. Edmund Purdom has announced that she will proceed with plans for a separation or a divorce. At the time she announced these plans, Mrs Purdom reportedly said, “We had four years of poverty and we clung together like babes in the woods. But when he became successful it all changed. Now he says he dreads seeing me.” Edmund and Tita were married on January 5, 1951 in London. They have two children, Lilian, aged two and Marian, aged six months.

(Source: Movieland; February 1955)

Edmund Purdom (December 13, 1926 - January 1, 2009) was born in Hertfordshire, England. His acting career began in 1946 and continued almost until his death. His starring roles were mostly in the 1950s. Finding his career fizzling out, Edmund relocated to Italy where he spent the rest of his life. He was one of the main dubbers of Italian films. Married four times, his marriage to Tita Phillips from January 5, 1951 until March 5, 1956. Word has it that he was secretly seeing dating Tita's co-star. Edmund married Alicia Darr on April 10, 1957 and they were married until August 17, 1958. His best known wife was Linda Christian, former wife of Tyrone Power. Linda Christian and Edmund Purdom were married from March 24, 1962 until January 10, 1963.

Edmund Purdom and Linda Christian

Edmund Purdom was also known for lucking into some great roles. He got his role in The Student Prince from Mario Lanza. Some sources say it was because of a disagreement between Mario and the director - others say it was because Mario was seen as too heavy. One of Purdom's other starring roles, that of Sinuhe in The Egyptian, came to him after Marlon Brando turned it down.

Doris Takes Over for Lana and Ava

2011-04-13T00:14:00.007-05:00

Doris Day
Will have sixteen numbers to sing in “Love Me or Leave Me” – enough to please the most ardent Day fans. This picture has a strange history. Both Lana Turner and Ava Gardner turned it down. Doris took it for a reported $200,000. Cameron Mitchell, who was borrowed by MGM for the film, says it has one of the best scripts he’s ever read.

(Source: Movieland; February 1955)

I've never seen this film about singer trying to get away from the gangster who made her a star. Lucky for me, it's appearing on TCM next Friday April 22, 2011 at 8:45 am est. Can't beat James Cagney and of course the wonderful Doris Day so I might have to check it out.

Could My Luck FINALLY Change after 31 Years?

2011-04-12T23:18:00.017-05:00

St Paul Athletic Club, Sun Roof, 1935

I had a pretty decent day today, highly unusual for me. My mom would probably attribute it listening to her for once. My self imposed hermit behavior has my mom calling me daily to remind me to get "at least 15 minutes of sunshine a day". Well today I did, and even got my first sunburn of the year and fell off a swing, twice (which my nieces thought was hilarious). After that I fixed my Internet connection myself, which has been down for several days and found out I won two giveaways on a couple of my favorite blogs:

Which I'm super excited to listen to. I am a total Old Time Radio addict. I have Old Time Radio on all the time when I'm doing my work for my upcoming issue and housework too. Frankly, I can't go to sleep without it any more. My radio is permanently on XM 164. I was totally surprised I won this won. Thanks to the fabulous folks at one of my favorite blogs, Thrilling Days of Yesterday, for the cool audio book.

Another cool win was this book from Cathie Filian, craft goddess, and host of one of my favorite craft shows, Creative Juice. I adore tea towels, and I'm really excited to check this one out. I adore Cathie's blog which has lots of great craft videos and projects.

My winning entry:
"Friends love you for who you are no matter what you do or what mistakes you make. A shoulder to cry on, a cheerleader in your endeavors, and a voice when you can't speak for yourself. My husband, mother, brothers and sisters are my lifelines in good times and bad". Totally true, by the way. Unfortunately, I have found out the hard way that my family has - and will be my only friends and champion in this life.

Fred Astaire Stops Dancing

2011-04-10T22:45:00.002-05:00

Fred Astaire
Since the tragic death of his wife, is resuming his career full-time to keep his mind busy. Their’s was a true love affair! Next to his home life, dancing and race horses are his chief interests. Fred, worth a mint, decided to retire once, but got so busy with hobbies and outside demands that he had to return to the screen to get a rest.

(Source: Movieland; February 1955)

Fred Astaire and Phyllis Livingston Potter were married from 1933 until her death from lung cancer at age 46 in 1954. They had two children together, Fred Jr and Ava. When Phyllis passed, Fred did not even want to finish the film he was working on, Daddy Long Legs, and offered to pay the production costs to back out, but was persuaded to stay. Fred would stay single until 1980 when he married jockey Robyn Smith, 45 years his junior. On a side note, Fred mostly retired from dancing after his wife passed.

Donald Tries to Take it WIth Him

2011-04-03T23:34:00.003-05:00

Donald O'Connor and Marilyn Monroe

Donald O’Connor Looking worn from overwork, was warned again that he couldn’t take it with him “No,” said he, “but it’s fun trying.” (Source: Movieland; Feb 1955)

Should Terry Moore be Worried?

2011-04-03T02:02:00.010-05:00

Terry Moore

Is worried and no wonder. She hasn’t made a picture in more than a year. True, she turned down a couple that she didn’t think right for her. But for a girls who almost equaled Marilyn Monroe in publicity breaks last year, something has gone wrong. She can’t figure out what it is. Terry, nevertheless, has been studying madly in an effort to improve her acting technique. Finally to keep in the swim she took a minor part in Daddy Long Legs. But the real star of the picture, it being a musical, are Fred Astaire and Leslie Caron.

(Source: Movieland, February 1955)

Terry Moore (born Helen Louella Koford on January 7, 1929 in Los Angeles, CA) began acting at age 11. She has been married five times. Best known for her roles in the original Mighty Joe Young (1949) and her Oscar nominated role in Come Back, Little Sheba (1952), Terry is still acting today and still even takes 2 acting classes a week. After Howard Hughes died in 1974, Moore claimed she and Hughes had secretly wed in 1949, but no marriage certificate has ever been found. In the 1980s, she famously posed for Playboy at age 55 - minus retouching. Most recently she occasionally appears in films and starred in the TV show Old Skool with Terry and Gita. To keep up with Terry, check out her website.

John Wayne Gets Hitched in Hawaii

2011-04-01T23:39:00.021-05:00

Wonder Why John Wayne and Pilar Palette didn’t invite Lex and Lana to their marriage and wedding reception?

They were all in Hawaii when the wedding ceremony took place. And Lana had just co-starred with John in “The Sea Chase.”.

Duke was quoted as saying something to the effect: “You can bet this will be a hot marriage. The ceremony was performed on a lava bed.” It was, of course, an idle jest, but it just may prove to be true. Both John and Pilar have fiery tempers that easily get out of control, but they cool off quickly. They’ve already had frequent squabbles. Many of their friends – who like them both – wanted them to wait longer to see if they were really meant for each other. Now that they’re married, we wonder if Pilar will listen patiently in what could be Duke’s theme song: “Don’t fence me in”.

(Source: Movieland; February 1955)

John Wayne and Pilar Palette, a former Peruvian actress, were married in Hawaii November 1, 1954 - the very day his divorce from 2nd wife Esperanza Baur was finalized. According to Pilar, Wayne got a phone call from his attorney while in Hawaii during the filming of The Sea Chase to tell him the divorce from his wife was finalized. He went into their hotel room and said they were going to get married that very day. She and Mary St. John were to find the dress and The Duke would do the rest. He wanted them to marry at sunset to the sounds of "The Hawaiian Wedding Song" and honeymoon at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. (Source: http://johnshore.com/2008/06/05/how-john-wayne-proposed-to-his-third-wife-pilar/).

John Wayne and Pilar Palette stayed together until they separated in 1976 and were still technically married at the time of his death in 1979. Pilar keeps herself busy these days as an artist.

James Dean, Liz Taylor, and a New Blog

2011-03-27T01:42:00.005-05:00

I decided to start a blog about what celebrities read, and their home libraries. It's called Celebrity Reads. Here, James Dean and Elizabeth Taylor take a break on the set of Giant.

Book Review: Relic Master: The Dark City by Catherine FIsher

2011-03-26T22:32:00.003-05:00

I have to get a bit off topic for the minute. I won an advance reading copy from Penguin books and all I have to say is Wow! This is one of the best books I have read in a while. Relic Master: The Dark City brings the reader to the world of Anara, a crumbling world run by a police state controlled by The Watch. The Watch's sole purpose seems to be the obliteration of The Order or Keepers (those able to control power by themselves and can be amplified through the use of Relics). The reader enters the world through Raffi, a four year student of the Order and his teacher Galen, who surprisingly has lost his use of power. Galen and Raffi seek to find others like them and restore the world to the way of the past. Along the way, they are "befriended" by Carys Arrin, a 16-year-old member of The Watch. I sympathized most with Galen, who had something that was such a part of his life taken away from him. His very purpose on the planet was taken away from him for no reason. The dichotomy of wanting to die, yet needing to live for the greater purpose made Galen an incredibly compelling character. This book was intense in the best sense of the word. I couldn't put it down. It sort of reminded me of a cross between the Septimus Heap series by Angie Sage and the Wheel of Time series by Robert Jordan. I can't wait for the rest of the series to be released here in the US!

It comes out May 17th, 2011. Get at Amazon or Barnes and Noble.

Stanwyck helps George Gobel

2011-03-26T00:02:00.023-05:00

Barbara Stanwyck
Noted for her help to newcomers in Hollywood, has climbed right on the bandwagon for a guy who has never appeared in pictures – he’s George Gobel of television. Right now he’s the most talked about new personality in town and everyone seems to have discovered him at the same time. Finding a movie vehicle for his particular brand of comedy talent might prove to be a difficult task.

George Geobel (May 20, 1919 - Feb 24, 1991) was a hilarious comedian and actor. He started out as a child star on the radio. This only child initially intended to be a country music star, but that didn't quite work out, so he opted for comedy and excelled at it. During WWII he was a flight instructor which he famously made fun of in the fantastic Johnny Carson clip above. It makes me long for the days when late night comedians were actually funny. This clip feels like one big party.

Many people are most familiar with George Gobel's appearances on Hollywood Squares, where he made over 200 appearances. In 1954, he had his own show, The George Gobel Show, which is quite hilarious. The company he helped found, Gomalco, produced the first four years of the beloved TV show, Leave It to Beaver. Unfortunately, his talent did not translate to the movies as Barbara Stanwyck and many others wished. George had a wife, Alice, whom he was married to from December 13, 1942 until his death. They had three children together. Alice was often used as a topic of George's humor, as you can see in the clip from The George Gobel Show below.

Although I didn't realize it, I first encountered George Gobel in the Rankin Bass 1974 classic, Twas The Night Before Christmas. He voiced the lovable Father Mouse in the Christmas classic. Some people might also remember him as Mayor Harper in the 1981 TV series Harper Valley PTA.

A great George Gobel quote: "I've never been drunk, but I've often been overserved"

A bit of trivia, the "Lonesome George" is named after him (Gobel's nickname was "Lonesome George"). There is only 1 of this subspecies of Galapagos Tortoise. The tortoise is anywhere from 60 - 90 years old. There is a $10,000 reward for anyone who can find a female of the same species, so keep your eyes open!

RIP Elizabeth Taylor

2011-03-25T01:09:00.012-05:00

We lost one of the greats this week, the stunning Elizabeth Taylor. She will be remembered for many things:

Her incredible talent (Seen her with Paul Newman in Cat on a Hot Tin Roof)

Her Charity Work (Photo Source: CNN)

As A Wonderful Mother

For Style and Fashion

For Beauty and those Eyes

Her Jewels

Her Care and Love of Animals

Mike Todd - "He was 25 years my senior and eternally young. I could hardly keep up with him. He was the most energetic man I've ever known and he made our short 18 months together one of the most intensely glorious times of my life. ... I have had two great loves in my life. Mike Todd was the first." (Elizabeth Taylor Quote - Source: Fandango)

Richard Burton - "Since I was a little girl, I believed I was a child of destiny, and if that is true Richard Burton was surely my fate. Certainly for a very long time he was my life. Despite what the press wrote at the beginning of our affair, I never regretted a moment of it." (Elizabeth Taylor Quote - Source: Fandango)

As a Fierce Friend (Here with Montgomery Clift in the 1950s)

Elizabeth Taylor was a legend with no equal. I find her life particularly inspiring because despite her incredible beauty, she was an incredibly sweet, loving, generous and hard working. I admire her drive and love of life. I find it inspiring that she was able to accomplish so many wonderful things, despite her many health problems. As someone who has suffered from chronic back pain, like Elizabeth, it can be so hard to get out of bed, let alone function in society - yet she was able to win Oscars, help so many people through her charity work, and win the love and admiration of millions of people. RIP dear Elizabeth, and enjoy that wonderful backlot in the sky.

Frances Walks Out On Van

2011-03-21T01:08:00.008-05:00

Frances Heflin
After stalking out on Van in a huff from a Hollywood restaurant, explained: “I was just being a red head.”

(Source: Movieland; February 1955)

Van Heflin and Frances Neal, an RKO contract player, were married from 1942 - 1967. They had two daughters and one son.

I'm a redhead myself, and I wish redheads weren't known for having a fiery temper. I wonder if it was bad food or something Van said. It must have been an intense argument if it caused her to leave dinner.

Sterling Hayden is a bachelor . . . again

2011-03-18T23:26:00.009-05:00

Sterling Hayden, his wife Betty Ann de Noon, and daughter Gretchen Bell in happier times (November 31, 1950)

Sterling Hayden
Has his divorce out and will soon be on the eligible bachelor list again. Since he’s probably made more pictures than any other male star the past two years, he’ll also be taking a vacation from the studios – as well as marriage – until he gets a rest.

(Source: Movieland; 1955)

Apparently "The Most Beautiful Man in the Movies" (as Paramount billed him) would not be a bachelor for long. This Movieland tidbit must have been written between marriages to Betty Ann. Sterling Hayden and Betty Ann de Noon seemed to have a love hate relationship. They were married and divorced three times: from 1947-1953, 1954-1955, and 1956-1958. They had 4 children together: Christian, Dana, Gretchen, and Matthew. Sterling Hayden was also married to actress Madeleine Carroll (from 1942-1946) and Catherine Devine McConnell (from 1960-1986; they had 2 children). Sterling appeared in some pretty great pictures like The Godfather, but my favorite Sterling performances were in Dr. Strangelove and The Asphalt Jungle.

Lou Pulls a "Cutie"

2011-03-15T21:58:00.004-05:00

Lou Costello
Pulled a cutie for his daughter Caro Lou. Her birthday falls on December 23rd and Lou figured it wasn’t fair for it to come so close to Christmas. SO he just moved the calendar back and gave her sixteenth birthday party on November sixth. That way Christmas and birthday presents for the young girl won’t conflict.

(Source: Movieland; February 1955)

Abbott Puts on the Pounds

2011-03-14T23:48:00.003-05:00

Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy (1955)

Bud Abbott
Incidentally, continues to gain weight while Lou sheds pounds. They began their comedy team work as a skinny guy and a fat man. Now they’re practically the same weight!

(Source: Movieland; February 1955)

Can Judy Take Home the Academy Award?

2011-03-14T01:28:00.010-05:00

Judy Garland, Jack Warner, and Lauren Bacall at A Star is Born Premiere September 1954

Judy Garland
And Marlon Brando are the present favorites to get the Oscars for the best female and male star performances of 1954. Judy may have some competition from Dorothy Dandrige for “Carmen Jones” and Grace Kelly for “Country Girl” – but the sentiment is riding with Garland, and that’s a powerful factor when a Hollywoodite makes a comeback. Along with Marlon, James Mason will likely receive a nomination for “A Star is Born”; and Dan O’Herlihy for “Robinson Crusoe”. At least, that is the way voters are thinking right now.

(Source: Movieland; February 1955)

Grace Kelly and Marlon Brando March 30, 1955 Academy Awards

Judy Garland did not win the Oscar - Grace Kelly won for Country Girl. Marlon Brando did win for his performance in On the Waterfront (which was fantastic). The film also took home the Best Picture Academy Award, Best Supporting Actress Oscar to Eve Marie Saint, and Best Director to Elia Kazan that year.

Greta Garbo on TV?

2011-03-12T23:16:00.002-06:00

Greta Garbo
Can name her own price for doing one of those TV extravaganzas. But if she won’t do a picture, it’s hardly likely that she’ll do television. Incidentally, the last time we saw Garbo, she was dining with a party of friends in a very public place and seemed to be having a wonderful time. That ultra-shyness attributed to her is simply a part of the Garbo legend. If the lady doesn’t have to work and doesn’t want to, why should she?

(Source: Movieland, February 1955)

Shelley and Marilyn

2011-03-12T00:32:00.004-06:00

Shelley Winters and Marilyn Monroe at the Golden Globes in 1961

Shelley Winters
“Marilyn Monroe and I have two things in common. We’re both blond and we alienated the Italian market.”

(Source: Movieland; February 1955)

Shelley Winters and Marilyn Monroe shared an apartment in the 1940s and 1951. According to Shelley, they also shared a bathing suit for photos and a mink coat for dates. It's also thought that she taught Marilyn to act sexy "by tilting her head back, lowering her eyes, and ever-so-slightly opening her mouth" (Source: http://www.nndb.com/people/859/000022793/)

Donald and Francis the Mule take a Break

2011-03-11T01:05:00.004-06:00

Donald O’Connor
Says he has no time for serious romance these days. His idea of relaxing evening is to catch two western feature pictures. Don is not so wealthy as most people imagine because until he clicked in “Singing in the Rain,” he worked for practically nothing – as stars go. His first Universal-International contract, which ran for seven years, paid him $200 a week. Donald doesn’t intend to do any more pictures with his pal, Francis the Mule unless U-I comes up with a good script and an interesting salary offer.

(Source:Movieland; 1955)

Bob Mitchum and his Nicknames

2011-03-08T22:54:00.006-06:00

Wonder where Bob Mitchum picks up all those nicknames? He calls Marilyn Monroe, “Angora”

and Olivia de Havilland, “Sport”.

Usually he just settles for “Dad” when addressing men. We think you’ll be surprised by Olivia’s performance as the Swedish nurse in “Not as a Stranger.” For the part she has assumed a Swedish accent and had her hair bleached. Always the perfectionist, she saw eight real operations before starting the picture.

Olivia De Havilland and Pierre Galante

By the time you read this Olivia might be married to Pierre Galante and living abroad. She’s scheduled to make two pictures is Europe – so she won’t be idle.

(Source: Movieland, 1955)

Note: Olivia De Havilland was married to Pierre Galante from 1955 until their divorce in 1979.

Olivia looks quite different as a blond. I think she looks better as a brunette. What do you think?

Basement Ceiling

2011-03-08T22:42:00.002-06:00

A 1920s Ceiling

Basement Ceiling

The ceiling should be airtight to prevent dust from sifting upstairs. A ceiling of plaster, Sheetrock, or other fire resisting material, greatly reduces a fire hazard.

(Source, Watkins Household Hints, 1941)

Are Liz and Michael Wilding headed for splitsville?

2011-03-04T00:45:00.004-06:00

Michael Wilding, Michael Jr, Elizabeth Taylor, and Christopher; 1955

Liz Taylor
Was upset last spring when rumors insisted she and Mike were splitting up. But Mike assured her it was all idle gossip, and they’d be together after all the reports had faded. At that time, Liz told us that she was going to get herself a bigger house and fill it with children. With the new home and second baby on the way, it looks as if she’s carrying out her plan.

(Source: Movieland February 1955)

Michael Wilding and Elizabeth Taylor were married from February 21, 1952 - January 30, 1957. She married Michael Todd within days of her divorce from Wilding.

Vintage Household Hints 2 - Prevent Basement Accidents

2011-03-04T00:04:00.005-06:00

Joan Bennett Storing Scripts in Basement Trunk; 1940

How to Prevent Basement Accidents

1. Keep rubbish and ashes in separate covered metal containers. Do not allow old papers and other inflammable material to accumulate.

2. Have stairs to basement well lighted, and provided with a handrail. Never leave pails, brooms, etc., on the stairs or landing.

3. Remove nails when breaking up boxes.

4. Tools should be kept in a cupboard; do not hang them on rafters.

5. Basement should be well lighted, preferably with electric lights controlled by a switch at top of the stairway.

(Source: Watkins Household Hints; 1941)

Monty Clift crashes at Liz's house and Premiere drama

2011-03-03T00:39:00.006-06:00

Elizabeth Taylor and Michael Wilding

Montgomery Clift
Is usually a hermit when he comes to Hollywood for a picture. But he surprised everybody by house-guesting with Liz Taylor and Michael Wilding. His friendship with Liz goes back to A Place in the Sun, but it was never more than friendship. At that time Liz was single, and the studio cooked up the idea of having Monty take Liz to the premiere of the picture. He borrowed a tux and took a publicity man in a studio limousine to pick up Liz.

Liz and Montgomery Clift; 1950

But on the way to her house, they stopped at a drive-in to dine on hamburgers, Monty was more concerned about getting the publicity man home than he was about arriving at the premiere with Liz. His mood is mellowing toward Hollywood, but he’s still very careful about the scripts he selects.

(Source: Movieland, February 1955)

Vintage Household Hints #1 - Ventilation

2011-03-03T00:18:00.007-06:00

Air Ducts, Ventilators, Flues, Chimneys, Etc.

Should be cleaned once a year. In all cities and many towns, there are firms which have special motorized vacuum equipment which does the work efficiently.

Man Cleaning Commercial Furnace Aug 25, 1949 (Source:MNHS)

Clean burners in gas-fired boiler and flush fuel oil storage tanks to remove sediment. Remove rust.*

(Source: Watkins Household Hints, 1941)

*Note - We have different furnaces now so much of this tip is not valid. It is however still advisable to have a professional tune up and clean your furnace, chimneys, etc. I do it once a year - furnace in the fall and air conditioner in the spring. Chimney every 1 to 2 years depending on how often I use the fireplace.

RIP Jane Russell

2011-03-01T00:29:00.002-06:00

RIP to one of the greats, Jane Russell. What a sweet, strong, classy, fabulous lady. No one out there like her, and never will be.

Jane, her 4 brothers, and their broods in 1954