The Dregs of January in Minnesota

 

Growing up in Minnesota, one learns the cruelest month is January. However, Minnesotans operate under a high level of denial and find amusing ways to delude themselves as a way of surviving

 the subzero weather. 

Minnesotans do not let winter in January dampen their spirits. They

 cleverly have adapted to everyday life in the frozen tundra.

   Who needs warm weather in January, when the suns rays

 are so close to the earth at this time of year!

The hardiness of Minnesotans is well respected by

 our fellow Americans.

Don't worry, Minnesota, soon it will be February.

January adds to the allure of Minnesotans. Who knew

 this makes us international sex symbols?

Au Revoir Alan Rickman

The first time I saw Alan Rickman I fell in love with him. In 1992 he starred in the marvelous movie, "Truly, Madly, Deeply". He was simply spellbinding as a ghost lover of a woman named Nina, who is in the depths of despair after months of dealing with his character's sudden death. Her gut-wrenching grief brought him back from the netherworld. This movie came out as the same time as "Ghost" but unlike this sentimental shallow tripe, "Truly, Madly, Deeply" was riveting in its intensity pondering what would it be like to have a second chance with a lost love. Alan Rickman was sophisticated enough to let Juliet Stephenson as Nina steal the show; only a confident and sentient actor would be so generous. Mr. Rickman showed this kind of mettle in all his performances. 

Many remember his fierce performances as Hans Gruber in "Die Hard", Professor Snape in the Harry Potter series, Harry in "Love Actually", and as the Sheriff of Nottingham in "Robin Hood". His presence on screen hypnotized me. Even in a bad movie he was excellent. He had a way of drawing me in, mesmerizing me with his brilliance regardless of the role. 

That voice. Who will ever forget that mellifluous voice? Here's to Alan Rickman. Thank you for bringing to life such an astounding range of characters. There are not enough adjectives to describe your immense talent. Rest in Peace.