Reflections on September 11th, 2001 - GOD BLESS AMERICA!

On this September 11th, known as Patriot Day, may we all remember the lives lost in the horrific terrorist attacks on America in 2001.

For those of us who lived through September 11th, the memory of what took place is seared into our memory. I will never forget the disturbing images I saw or how terrified I felt that day as my family and I gathered around the TV to watch the endless news coverage. I remember falling to my knees in prayer and crying for the people who perished and the family and friends they left behind.

We were forever changed as a nation, but thankfully, our country, at that time, was firmly united. Americans proudly wore red, white, and blue and flew the American flag with great pride. Even though it was a dark time, the spirit of patriotism and God's amazing love shined through.

Let us continue to pray for peace in America and for those who lost someone they loved on that day.

If you've never seen the film Flight 93, it is a heartrending depiction of what took place on September 11th, 2001. This movie, made in 2006, stars many actors you are sure to recognize from Hallmark movies, including Brennan Elliott (His and Hers, Crossword Mysteries), Karen Holness (Christmas at the Plaza, The Christmas Promise), April Telek (Big Sky River, A World Record Christmas), Laura Mennell (A Country Wedding, Cedar Cove), Tom Butler (Anything for Love, Chesapeake Shores), Wanda Cannon (Christmas List, Surprised by Love), Zak Santiago (Signed, Sealed, Delivered), Hrothgar Mathews (When Calls the Heart), Eric Keenleyside (Martha's Vineyard Mystery), and Daryl Shuttleworth (Christmas in Evergreen).

You can see the movie Flight 93 on YouTube - here. Please note: due to the intense, heavy story based on these real-life events, this is not a film for children; it does include language and violence.

May God bless and protect America.

With an enormous love for my Country,

Net

In Remembrance of Actor Treat Williams...

On Monday evening, Hallmark posted to their social media some very sad, heartbreaking news... Actor Treat Williams, who portrayed a beloved father in many movies and series, including Everwood, Front of the Class, and Chesapeake Shores, has passed away.

Yahoo is reporting his death was due to a motorcycle accident in Vermont. Treat was wearing a helmet but was hit and thrown from his motorcycle, suffering critical injuries. Treat Williams was 71 years old.

My first remembrance of Treat is from the series Everwood. I enjoyed his portrayal of Dr. Andrew Brown and the way he connected with his children after the passing of his wife. The series was full of emotion and drama. In Hallmark Hall of Fame's Front of the Class, Treat portrayed a father who doesn't quite understand his son's medical condition and often takes his frustration out on him until he is diagnosed with Tourettes. After that, he does his best to make amends. Whatever role Treat took on was influential, powerful and memorable. In Chesapeake Shores, he portrayed Mick O'Brien, the patriarch to five grown children who often looked to their father for his wisdom and advice.

I know Treat Williams will be remembered fondly by the Hallmark family and all who worked with him through the years.

My heart and prayers go out to his wife, Pam, his children, Gill and Elinor, and all of his family and friends.

May God bless and bring comfort,
Net

image credit: ©2022 Hallmark Media/Photographer: David Astorga

Remembering Actor Ed Asner...

image: Hallmark Crown Media

Most of you probably heard the sad news over the weekend that actor Ed Asner passed away on August 29, 2021 at the age of 91. He was born on November 15, 1929 in Kansas City, Missouri to Morris David Asner and Lizzie Seliger. Asner was married twice and had four children: Matthew, Charles, Kate and Liza.

Ed Asner's passing was shared on social media Sunday morning with this message...

"We are sorry to say that our beloved patriarch passed away this morning peacefully. Words cannot express the sadness we feel. With a kiss on your head- Goodnight dad. We love you."

image: Hallmark Crown Media

To a lot of viewers, he is well known from the TV series: Lou Grant and The Mary Tyler Moore Show. However, to a younger generation, he is most well known as Santa Claus in the popular Christmas movie comedy Elf and his Hallmark movies: The Christmas Card (which is a beloved, true Hallmark Classic that pays tribute to our military serving in Afghanistan and the Vietnam War, Asner portrays a Veteran), Generation Gap (like The Christmas Card, this movie is another great tribute to the military), Out of the Woods (he portrays an eccentric Grandpa), Second Chances (Ed plays another heroic character, as retired fireman, Buddy), and Ed Asner has an important role in the All of My Heart trilogy of films, alongside Lacey Chabert and Brennan Elliott. (In fact, I just watched one of the All of My Heart movies last week, and I was thinking how wonderful it was that they were able to have his involvement in all three movies. There's a brief military tribute in this movie, as well. In the first All of My Heart movie, Ed's character shares that his older brother sadly died during the war.)

Actor Brennan Elliott shared this heartfelt tribute on social media...

"This man made everything funny no matter what he said or did! Being able to work with him was a treasured moment for me and everyone on our #aomhmovies. We lost a genius today who will be missed greatly. Keep them all laughing in heaven my friend! Miss you!"

If you take a look at Ed Asner's extensive career at IMDB, then you'll also see that he was planning to do several more projects that were in pre-production. Also, the movie Elf isn't the only time he portrayed Santa; Ed played Kris Kringle in... A StoryBots Christmas, Santa Stole Our Dog: A Merry Doggone Christmas!, Elf: Buddy's Musical Christmas, Olive, the Other Reindeer, The Story of Santa Claus, Christmas on the Bayou, Murdoch Mysteries, and in an episode of Highway to Heaven! Asner did the voice work for many various animations, including: the Pixar movie, Up, plus, Daniel, in the lions' den, in the Adventures from the Book of Virtues and Joshua in Joshua and the Battle of Jericho.

Besides Elf and The Christmas Card (my personal favorite!), Ed Asner starred in many other notable Christmas movies that should be aired each year, but typically aren't... The Man Who Saved Christmas, The Christmas Star, The Gathering, Thomas Kinkade's Christmas Cottage, Yes Virginia, There Is a Santa Claus, Home Alone: The Holiday Heist, and Christmas on the Bayou!

We say goodbye now to this iconic TV legend, and we will fondly remember him each time we watch one of his many shows or movies replay on TV. My prayers go out now to his dear family and friends.

God bless, Net

Remembering Actress Cloris Leachman...

Sadly, legendary film and TV actress, Cloris Leachman, passed away on January 27, 2021. She was born on April 30, 1926 and lived to be 94 years old. Cloris will be fondly remembered for a variety of roles, including "The Beverly Hillbillies," "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," "The Facts of Life" and more... Plus, she had multiple guest star roles on many shows, such as: "Gunsmoke," "Lassie," The Donna Reed Show," "The Love Boat," "Perry Mason," "Diagnosis Murder," "Touched by an Angel," "Promised Land" and so on...


Cloris Leachman had an extensive career in film and on TV, and it's no wonder - with her spunky, vibrant personality and dramatic flair, Cloris fit into any character, whether it was the den Mother on "Facts of Life," the cranky, recluse woman in "Prancer," the peppy, high-spirited Granny in "The Beverly Hillbillies," or even the inspirational grandmother in "I Can Only Imagine." Cloris could play all of these roles perfectly.


Hallmark fans may also recall Cloris Leachman had a role in one of the Christian based, "Love Comes Softly" pioneer era movies, "Love Takes Wing," which aired on the Hallmark Channel in 2009. Cloris played the role of Miss Hattie and helped Dr. Belinda Simpson overcome her grief and reach out to the sick orphaned children, who were in desperate need.

While I loved Cloris in so many roles, I will personally remember her best from two of her family Christmas movies. The first one is "A Little Piece of Heaven," with Lacey Chabert and Kirk Cameron, from 1991. This sweet little movie is one that always touches the heart; I sure wish they would air it on TV again. I've had it on DVD for years, and I'm so glad to see Amazon still offers it.

The second Christmas movie that Cloris Leachman has a role in that is always a must see for me each Christmas, is Prancer! To say I absolutely love this movie is an understatement. It brings me such joy to see the little girl, Jessica, reach out to show love and kindness to Cloris' character, Mrs. McFarland, who lives all alone and is forgotten by everyone else in town. It is such a beautiful scene when Mrs. McFarland comes to church during a Christmas candlelight service. I typically become a bit misty-eyed at this point. There is so much more to this movie then just believing in Santa Claus, it's about overcoming loss and restoring one's faith and Cloris' character is key to that discovery.

Please share which show or movie you enjoyed with Cloris Leachman in comments below.

Sending our love and prayers 

to her dear family and friends.

God's Blessings, Net

Remembering our dear friend, Sherry...

Over my many years of blogging, I have met many wonderful people. One of those people was someone who became a dear friend, Sherry. You may recall she would often comment here with her name and state, Sherry from California. She was as great as any detective, finding clues to movies no one knew anything about, just yet, and sharing bits of information she would find on various Hallmark films in production. Sherry had a fantastic insight into figuring out which movies would be premiering next and who might star in them. She loved following the clues and was fantastic at doing so.

Unfortunately, I have learned that dear Sherry has passed away. My heart broke hearing this news, as we had become great friends –emailing and messaging one another back and forth about movies and things going on in our lives and in the world. Throughout the pandemic we would email our concerns with one another and do our best to uplift each other’s spirits.

Sherry and I talked endlessly this spring about when we anticipated film production would start up again; she was very much looking forward to the new “Aurora Teagarden” mystery and most of all, the upcoming slate of Christmas films. Alicia Witt was one of her favorite actresses; she was very much in tune to when she and Andrew Walker were filming “Christmas Tree Lane,” and was looking forward to this new premiere and numerous others.

Many of you may also know Sherry from Facebook, as well, since she would often share there to various Hallmark groups. Last year she joined Twitter- with the handle @HotlineHallmark – and Sherry was just that – an excellent source and ‘Hotline to Hallmark’ news. Sherry was always in the know on what was coming and what was in-the-works, whether it was a new movie, preview show, or special marathon.

I will so miss chatting with her on movies and all sorts of subjects, and I wanted to let all of you know we lost a dear member of this “It’s a Wonderful Movie” family. Sherry still visited here often and I know she was glad to share with so many of you – who were upbeat and positive about the lighthearted movies she loved.

I’ll always be grateful for Sherry’s thoughtfulness and kindness. My heart and prayers go out now to her dear family and friends.

We will miss you, Sherry!

Love you, my friend... Net

Remembering Actress Valerie Harper - Plus, MeTV and getTV give Special TV Tributes

image: Hallmark Crown Media

Last week we lost one of television's leading ladies... legendary actress, Valerie Harper, who lost her battle with cancer, at the age of 80, on Friday, August 30, 2019.

Whether you watched in real time or reruns, many of us know and love Valerie Harper in her various roles... from The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Rhoda, Love Boat, the sitcom Valerie, and lots of guest roles and TV movies, including: The Great Mom Swap, Promised Land, Touched by an Angel, Mary and Rhoda, UPtv's The Town That Came A-Courtin' and so on. Valerie also starred in Hallmark Channel's Fixing Pete and Signed, Sealed, Delivered (the TV Series).

image: Hallmark Crown Media

I especially loved Valerie in her role on Signed, Sealed, Delivered as the Dead Letter Office Supervisor, Theresa Capodiamonte. She had such an inspirational spark about her with this character. One of the episodes was aptly named Time to Start Livin' and in the episode Valerie's character did just that, as she decided to take a chance and live out her dreams while it was still possible to make them happen!

We are blessed now by Valerie's legacy of films and TV series, that have brought joy, laughter, and inspiration to generation after generation.

Valerie Harper leaves behind her husband, Tony Cacciotti, and her daughter, Cristina. My thoughts and prayers go out to her dear family and friends.


MeTV will be giving a special TV tribute to Valerie Harper this Sunday. Please see the press release below...

Plus getTV, will have a special tribute this Friday. See details below...


PRESS RELEASE - MeTV:

MeTV NETWORK PAYS TRIBUTE TO VALERIE HARPER

WITH A SPECIAL PRESENTATION OF “THE BEST OF RHODA”

TRIBUTE BEGINS SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8th AT 5:00 PM ET/PT

September 3, 2019 – Chicago, IL – MeTV Network pays tribute to the career of beloved actress Valerie Harper with a special presentation of select episodes from The Mary Tyler Moore Show and Rhoda, airing on MeTV this Sunday, September 8th beginning at 5:00pm ET/PT through 8:00pm ET/PT. (Episodes listed below).

Valerie Harper will forever be remembered as Rhoda Morgenstern, the wisecracking and lovelorn best friend to Mary Richards on the Primetime Emmy award-winning series, The Mary Tyler Moore Show. With her signature charm and snark, Harper made Rhoda one of the most memorable feminist icons of television in the 1970s, and earned three Primetime Emmy Awards for her performance, before landing her own spin-off series Rhoda in 1974.

Rhoda is the first and only television series to earn the top spot in Nielsen ratings for its premiere episode, where Rhoda leaves Minneapolis to return home to New York City and fires up a whirlwind romance with divorcee Joe Gerard, played by David Groh. At the time, the iconic New York wedding between Rhoda and Joe was the most watched television episode of the 1970s, with a whopping 52 million Americans tuning in. Airing from 1974-1978, the series earned 17 Primetime Emmy nominations, and seven Golden Globe nominations. Harper herself earned her fourth Emmy Award for Best Actress in a Comedy or Musical, as well as the Golden Globe for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy.

Harper went on to appear in a handful of television series, including The Love Boat, Touched By An Angel, Melrose Place, Sex and the City, Desperate Housewives, Dancing with the Stars and 2 Broke Girls. In 2000, Harper reunited with Mary Tyler Moore for the made-for-TV movie Mary and Rhoda. In 2013, Harper revealed that she had been diagnosed with a rare and incurable form of brain cancer, but continued to work, appearing in short films, on stage, and even voicing characters on animated series, The Simpsons and American Dad.

Throughout her career, Harper earned four Primetime Emmy Awards, one Golden Globe, and one Tony nomination. Outside of show business, Harper was a longtime representative for the Hunger Project, an organization that supports rural women in developing countries, and co-founded L.I.F.E. (Love Is Feeding Everyone) in 1983, a charity dedicated to preventing hunger in Los Angeles. Harper is survived by her husband of 32 years, Tony Cacciotti.



The complete schedule for MeTV’s Tribute to Valerie Harper includes:

Sunday, September 8, 2019 (All Times are Eastern/Pacific)

5:00pm-5:30pm: The Mary Tyler Moore Show – “Rhoda, The Beautiful”

Rhoda enters a beauty contest but continues to put herself down.

5:30pm-6:00pm: The Mary Tyler Moore Show – “Is a Friend in Need”

Rhoda loses her job, but Mary doesn't tell her about an opening at WJM.

6:00pm-6:30pm: The Mary Tyler Moore Show – “A Girl’s Best Mother Is Not Her Friend”

Rhoda's mother visits with the intention of being her daughter's best friend.

6:30pm-7:00pm: The Mary Tyler Moore Show – “Where There’s Smoke, There’s Rhoda”

Mary and Rhoda are best friends, but can they be roommates too?

7:00pm-7:30pm: Rhoda – “Rhoda’s Wedding Part 1”

Rhoda's wedding day has finally arrived and is filled with mishaps.

7:30pm-8:00pm: Rhoda – “Rhoda’s Wedding Part 2”

Complications may ruin Rhoda's wedding day.



Viewers can see our complete schedule and find out where to watch by visiting MeTV.com.


About Weigel Broadcasting Co.

Weigel Broadcasting Co. is a family-owned media company based in Chicago, Illinois. In addition to producing the new series Collector’s Call, the company owns and operates national television networks, as well as local broadcast stations throughout the country. Weigel is the leader in the multicast television network space with "MeTV," Memorable Entertainment Television, the number-one rated and distributed multicast network, as well as the "Movies!" Network in cooperation with the Fox Television Stations, the "DECADES" Network, the "H&I" Network and the “Start TV” Network in association with the CBS Television Stations. Weigel's local stations include CBS, ABC, The CW, MyNet and Telemundo network affiliates. Weigel and its affiliate companies broadcast network and independent television stations in Los Angeles, Chicago, San Francisco, Seattle, St. Louis, Cedar City-St. George, Milwaukee, South Bend and Rockford. Weigel is also the creator of the nationally syndicated music format “MeTV FM”. For more information on Weigel, visit: https://www.weigelbroadcasting.com/

###

image courtesy: getTV

Tribute for Valerie Harper - details below via getTV:

getTV Remembers Valerie Harper (1939-2019) With Special “Hot in Cleveland Episode” Reuniting Her and “Mary Tyler Moore Show” Co-Stars on Friday, September 6 at 7:30 pm ET

getTV will pay tribute to four time-Emmy-winning actress Valerie Harper, who died Friday, by airing a special 2013 episode of “Hot in Cleveland,” in which Harper guest-starred, on Friday, September 6 at 7:30 pm ET. The episode, entitled “Love Is All Around,” also guest stars Mary Tyler Moore and Cloris Leachman and series regulars Betty White and Georgia Engel, who all co-starred with Harper on the long-running “Mary Tyler Moore Show.” On that series, Harper created the role she was best-known for, of Rhoda Morgenstern, who she later played on a spin-off series, “Rhoda.”

The actresses all play former members of a bowling team who reunite, causing old rivalries to resurface. “Hot in Cleveland,” which also stars Valerie Bertinelli, Jane Leeves and Wendie Malick, airs weeknights from 6-8 PM ET on getTV.

Remembering Legendary Actor Tim Conway

"Surprised by Love" image: Hallmark Crown Media

We solemnly say goodbye today to actor and comedian Tim Conway, who was one of the stars of the classic 'The Carol Burnett Show'.

As Hallmark viewers- we are blessed that one of Mr. Conway's last projects was co-starring in the romantic comedy, "Surprised by Love" in 2015, along with Hilarie Burton and Paul Campbell. What an incredible talent he was at making people laugh.

Tim Conway was born on December 15th, 1933 in Willoughby, Ohio. As a young man he served in the United States Army from 1956 to 1958. His journey to stardom began when he started working for a radio station. From there, he started writing skits in between CBS morning movies and he was discovered!

'The Apple Dumpling Gang' image: Disney

As a 6-Time Emmy Winner, Tim Conway has 124 movies, tv shows, etc... in his acting credit, including the classic Disney movie, 'The Apple Dumpling Gang' from 1975, with Don Knotts.

Our hearts and prayers go out to his dear friends, family, his children, and grandchildren...

With God's Love, Net

💮 REMEMBERING DORIS DAY 💮 AS SHE TAKES A SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY HOME...

Today, we remember Doris Day, who sang her way into our hearts with classic songs like: 'Sentimental Journey,' 'Que Sera, Sera,' 'Please, Please, Don't Eat the Daisies' and many more cherished tunes.

Doris Day was known for being the epitome of sugar and spice and everything nice... all sweetness, wholesomeness, and goodness! Her style was bright and cheerful; she was the legendary girl next door.

UPDATE: Details on TCM's Doris Day movie tribute below...

According to the Doris Day Animal Foundation, Doris had been in excellent health until she recently contracted a serious case of pneumonia. She passed away Monday, May 13, 2019 at the age of 97, in her home in Carmel Valley, California surrounded by dear friends.

What an incredible, soothing voice she had, recording over 600 songs, in which generation after generation, have enjoyed listening to. Many of her hit songs, such as: 'On Moonlight Bay,' 'Love Me, Or Leave Me' and 'April in Paris' were the highlight of the films she starred in. No matter your age or the era you grew up in, Doris' songs still evoke a certain sentiment... a heartwarming emotion... a feeling of ease, like a warm breeze on a carefree Summer day.

Doris was born April 3, 1922; her given name was Doris Mary Ann Kappeloff by her parents, William Joseph Kappeloff and Alma Sophia. Doris had two older brothers, Richard and Paul. Richard, however, passed before Doris was born.

As a young girl, Doris initially wanted to be a professional dancer, but after she injured her leg in a car accident in 1937, that dream ended. Instead, she realized her singing talent as she sang along with the radio, recovering from her accident. Doris took singing lessons and worked with the Les Brown band, eventually recording the hit song 'Sentimental Journey' in 1945.

screen-cap image via 'Romance on the High Seas'

From there, she was recommended for an audition for the movie 'Romance on the High Seas' in 1948. Doris, of course, earned the role, which led to more films thereafter. She even co-starred in a feature film with future President, Ronald Reagan, in "The Winning Team". In all, she made 39 films, even dancing in many of them, thus fulfilling her first dream, as well!

Even more than her entertainment dreams, Doris yearned to be a housewife and mother. She had one son, Terry, who, sadly, proceeded her in death in 2004. Terry's son, Ryan, is her only grandchild.

Doris Day with her son, Terry

In her later years, Doris loved being surrounded by the love and companionship of her animals. In 1978, she founded the Doris Day Pet Foundation, now the Doris Day Animal Foundation.

Doris Day and Jimmy Stewart
in promotional photo for "The Man Who Knew Too Much"

My personal love of Doris Day films began with movies like "Move Over, Darling" with James Garner and the Alfred Hitchcock film, "The Man Who Knew Too Much," with Jimmy Stewart. It has also been a thrill for me, personally, to share my birthday with Doris Day each year and send her a birthday greeting here on my blog.

Doris Day and James Garner in promotional shot for "Move Over Darling"

Doris' song 'A Bushel and a Peck' brings to mind a very special childhood memory for me of my Grandmother (we called her Ma-Ma). My own Momma would often sing to me and my siblings many of her favorite Doris Day songs, as we were growing up and still today! Furthermore, a dear, precious Aunt of mine, actually looked a lot like Doris Day. She was such a beautiful lady, inside and out.

Like an old movie reel playing in my mind, I can still see family members (past and present), sitting around in a circle at holiday gatherings, singing gospel hymns and cherished Doris Day songs like 'Sentimental Journey,' 'You are my Sunshine' and 'By the Light of the Silvery Moon'.

I imagine many of you also have your own sweet memories, in which Doris Day is a special part. Please share yours or any favorite Doris Day movie or song you may have, in comments below - as we remember Doris Day today in her 'Sentimental Journey' home...

May God bless and comfort
all the dear family and friends of Doris Day.

In God's Love... with my prayers, Net

(See TCM's Doris Day tribute schedule below...)

Turner Classic Movies (TCM) will celebrate the life and career of iconic actress, singer and animal activist Doris Day with a 24-hour, 13-film tribute on Sunday, June 9.

TCM Remembers Doris Day – Sunday June 9

6:00 a.m. Romance on the High Seas (1948)- A singer on a Caribbean cruise gets mixed up in a series of romantic problems.

8:00 a.m. My Dream Is Yours (1949) – A talent scout turns a young unknown into a radio singing star.

10:00 a.m. Tea For Two (1950) – An heiress has to say no to every question for 24 hours if she wants to star on Broadway.

11:45 a.m. On Moonlight Bay (1951)– A small-town tomboy falls for the boy-next-door in the years before World War I.

1:30 p.m. Carson on TCM: Doris Day (1976)– Doris Day joined Johnny to discuss why she decided to set the record straight about her life and write her autobiography.

1:45 p.m. Love Me or Leave Me (1955)– True story of torch singer Ruth Etting's struggle to escape the gangster who made her a star.

4:00 p.m. Calamity Jane (1953)– The Wild West heroine helps bring a star attraction to Deadwood and finds love.

6:00 p.m. Please Don't Eat the Daisies (1960) - A drama critic and his family try to adjust to life in the country.

8:00 p.m. Pillow Talk (1959) - A man and woman carry their feud over the telephone line they share into their real lives.

10:00 p.m. Lover Come Back (1961) – An ad exec in disguise courts his pretty female competitor.

12:00 a.m. Move Over Darling (1963) – Five years after a woman disappeared in the sea after a plane crash, her husband remarries and sets off to be with the new wife only to be confronted by the woman he had pronounced legally dead.

2:00 a.m. The Glass Bottom Boat (1966) – A woman writing a scientist’s biography is mistaken for a spy.

4:00 a.m. Julie (1956)– A stewardess is stalked by her psychotic estranged husband.

(All times Eastern)


Listen here to Doris Day singing 'Sentimental Journey'...

Remembering Actor Luke Perry

images: Hallmark Crown Media / Beverly Hills 90210

With great sadness we say goodbye to this great actor who has passed away today, at the age of 52, after suffering a massive stroke last Wednesday.

Luke Perry is widely known from Fox's "Beverly Hills, 90210," where he first became a well known star. From there he played supporting roles in various TV shows, and later starred in western type movies, such as: "Johnson County War," and the Hallmark TV movies, "A Gunfighter's Pledge," three films in the "Goodnight for Justice" series and "Love in Paradise."

Luke produced and starred in the faith based movie, "Welcome Home," which premiered on UPtv, along with the television series, "Ties that Bind," where he portrayed a father who was imprisoned. Most recently, he was starring as a father in another teen drama series, "Riverdale."

Through the years and through many characters, Luke Perry has entertained us and like the title of his movie, he's been welcome in our homes.

My heart and prayers go out to his dear family, close friends, and devoted fans.

God bless you all, Net

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”

Matthew 5:4

Remembering September 11, 2001 - GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Today, on this Patriot Day, we reflect on the tragic events of September 11, 2001 - when most of us watched on TV, as terrorists struck planes into our World Trade Center in New York City, our Pentagon in Virginia, and when the heroes of Flight 93 crashed their hijacked plane into a field in Pennsylvania. Our world since that day has never been the same.

As time moves us further away, I hope and pray, as a nation, we will never forget what took place that day. We must continue to pray for the families and remember the victims of September 11th, who were ordinary Americans, like you and me, simply going about their daily routine.

As we remember this dark time, be a Light to someone Today! Let us love one another!

God Bless America!

With my enormous love for my country,
and blessings to all who visit here, Net

"In Him was Life, and that Life was the Light of all mankind.

The Light shines in the darkness,
and the darkness has not overcome it."

~John 1:4&5

Remembering Preacher Billy Graham

When God called young Billy Graham's heart when he was just a young man, he accepted that call on his life wherever it may lead. Born William Franklin Graham, November 7, 1918 in the downstairs bedroom of a farmhouse near Charlotte, North Carolina, I'm sure he could have never imagined how God would lead him to spread the Gospel all around the world.

The Sinner's Prayer, led by Billy Graham:

Dear Lord Jesus, I know that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite You to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as my Lord and Savior. In Your Name. Amen

"For I know the plans I have for you,”
declares the Lord,
“plans to prosper you and not to harm you,
plans to give you hope and a future."

—Jeremiah 29:11

It became Billy Graham's mission to share the Good News, to lead others to a faith in Jesus in repentance of our sins, and give us the hope of eternal life with our Savior, who died on the cross for our sins. During the popular Billy Graham crusades, millions accepted the gift of Jesus Christ as their personal Savior.

1954 Billy Graham addresses crowd / Fred Ramage—Getty Images

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ!

According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again

to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead."

—1 Peter 1:3

As the world says goodbye, here on earth, to Billy Graham, we know he has been taken with the angels to join our creator in heaven, and those of us who believe, will join him there someday for eternity to walk the streets of gold!

“Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord …
that they may rest from their labors,
and their works follow them.”

—Revelation 14:13

Today there is a service for Reverend Billy Graham, who passed away on February 21, 2018. His wife, Ruth, proceeded him in death in 2007... I'm sure that was quite a reunion in Glory!

image via: Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

His children will be speaking in honor of their father - Virginia Leftwich (Gigi) Graham, Anne Graham Lotz, Ruth Graham, Franklin Graham, and Nelson Edman Graham.

image via: Billy Graham Evangelistic Association

You can celebrate the life and ministry of Billy Graham via streaming video, beginning at 10am, here:
https://memorial.billygraham.org/live-stream

The funeral service begins at 12noon and will be televised on Fox News from 11:50am - 2pm EST.

We are grateful Billy Graham followed his calling to preach the Gospel. He was an important spiritual leader "for such a time as this." I remember watching the crusades countless times on TV with my family, and we would call other family members to make sure they were watching, too. My brother and sister-n-love, along with their baby, at the time, attended a local Billy Graham crusade, and my dear aunt & uncle were blessed to be able to attend several crusades and see Rev. Graham preach the word of God to the enormous crowds who always gathered. Generations are forever changed because he shared the amazing love of Christ, and the divine message he brought to all of the world... we are welcome to come into the loving arms of Jesus "Just as I am".


This is a touching video tribute to Pastor Billy Graham:


For more on the life and ministry of Billy Graham - see the movie Billy: The Early Years Of Billy Graham, My Hope America with Billy Graham, and A Gathering of Souls: The Billy Graham Crusades.

Movies, Music, & Memories ~ Debbie Reynolds Tribute on TCM...

via TCM...
"Turner Classic Movies pays tribute to Debbie Reynolds on Friday, January 27 with the following festival of films. This program will replace the previously scheduled movies for that day so please take note."

Actress Debbie Reynolds

Debbie Reynolds TCM Movie Tribute on Friday, January 27, 2017:
(all times listed below are in Eastern Standard Time)

6:00 AM It Started With A Kiss (1959)
7:45 AM Bundle of Joy (1956)
9:30 AM How the West Was Won (1962)
12:30 PM The Tender Trap (1955)
2:30 PM Hit The Deck (1955)
4:30 PM I Love Melvin (1953)
6:00 PM Singin' In the Rain (1952)
8:00 PM The Unsinkable Molly Brown (1964)
10:30 PM The Mating Game (1959)
12:30 AM The Catered Affair (1956)
2:15 AM The Singing Nun (1966)
4:00 AM How Sweet It Is (1968)


With a song in her heart, Debbie Reynolds captured ours. This is a lovely tribute TCM is giving in Debbie's memory. How I wish they were also playing one of my favorite Debbie Reynolds' movies "Tammy and the Bachelor." It's one of those treasured pieces of cinema I captured one day when watching TCM. And, I was delighted I did! The first movie in the Tammy series of films is my favorite of the collection. The moment that truly steals the show is...

Debbie singing the title song, "Tammy" from "Tammy and the Bachelor"...


One of the first movies TCM is playing in the morning, "Bundle of Joy," based on the Ginger Rogers movie "Bachelor Mother," is also a delightful Christmas and New Years Movie, which co-stars Debbie's first husband, Eddie Fisher.

Debbie Reynolds and Eddie Fisher sing "Lullaby In Blue" from "Bundle of Joy"...


And, I must share the role Debbie Reynolds is most beloved for. Watching is sure to put a smile on your face and joy in your heart!

The Song "Goood Morning" from "Singin' in the Rain," with Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds and Donald O'Connor, one of the most successful musicals ever filmed...


I hope you can watch some of this wonderful musical movie tribute for Debbie Reynolds on Friday January 27th on TCM... as we say goodbye to another leading lady from Hollywood's golden age.


(*Special thank you to Jill for sharing the date for this touching tribute.)

Remembering the Legendary Actresses ~ Debbie Reynolds and her daughter Carrie Fisher

I'm sure you were, as I was, stunned to learn the passing of both of these actresses so suddenly these passed few days. First, Actress Carrie Fisher, from a heart attack on December 27, 2016, and then her mother, Actress Debbie Reynolds from a stroke a day later, December 28, 2016. So tragic, especially for all of the dear family and friends they left behind.

Actress Debbie Reynolds - the All American Girl Next Door!

Both Debbie Reynolds and Carrie Fisher were legends in the acting world. Debbie Reynolds was from Hollywood's By-gone Golden Era... with hits like "Singing in the Rain," "The Affairs of Dobie Gillis," "Susan Slept Here," "The Tender Trap," "Tammy and the Bachelor," "The Unsinkable Molly Brown," and so much more! You can see Debbie Reynolds' extensive acting career at imdb - with over 80 acting credits in her filmography and over 200 performances as herself!

"Singin' in the Rain" - Gene Kelly, Debbie Reynolds, and Donald O'Connor

via US magazine - Getty Images; Terry O'Neill/Getty Images
Gene Kelly in Singin' in the Rain in 1952;
Carrie Fisher in Star Wars in 1977 

Mark Hamill, Carrie Fisher, and Harrison Ford in Star Wars 

Of course, Carrie Fisher will forever be remembered as the iconic character from the original Star Wars movies, as Princess Leia. You can see her filmography at imdb, with over 90 acting credits!

Debbie Reynolds with daughter Carrie Fisher

My thoughts...
It is so sad to see these two pass away - Daughter and Mother, so close to one another.

Debbie was such a wonderful actress and beautiful singer. Her song "Tammy" and "Singin' in the Rain" are both musical favorites! Each year when Debbie's birthday comes along in April, you may recall, I have often wished her a Happy Birthday here on my site and shared news on TCM's movie marathon for her. I'm sure TCM will have a memoriam movie tribute for her soon, as they have already shared this touching video tribute below.

With my prayers and sympathy to all of their family and friends...

To the brilliant actress whose golden life made our lives golden in return. Debbie Reynolds, we miss you dearly. #TCMRemembers pic.twitter.com/6pufT0V6VO

— TCM (@tcm) December 29, 2016

Remembering Actress Florence Henderson - "Carol Brady"

Forever in our hearts she will be the Brady Bunch Mother...

"All of them had hair of Gold, like their Mother..."

Florence Henderson as Carol Brady in "The Brady Brunch"

Florence Henderson, was such a delight to watch, mostly always bringing personality & spunk to her roles, such as 'The Brady Bunch' or Hallmark's "Matchmaker Santa." But she could also bring a serious, dramatic feel, as well, as in Hallmark's "Ladies of the House" or the heartwarming story of "The Christmas Bunny." (If you haven't seen Florence in "The Christmas Bunny" - then, you absolutely must! She is terrific! You may hardly recognize her!)

Florence Henderson as Peggy in "Matchmaker Santa"

Florence Agnes Henderson was born February 14, 1934, the youngest of ten children, in the small town of Dale, in southern Indiana. She passed away on November 24, 2016, of heart failure, surrounded by her family. She had four children: Barbara, Joseph , Bob, and Elizabeth.

Florence Henderson in Hallmark's "Ladies of the House"

You can see Florence's intensive 6 decade career span on her imdb listing, here! From the stage, to the big & small screen, musicals (such as "The Sound of Music"), game shows, variety shows, singing annually at the Indianapolis 500, and so on and on... Florence Henderson certainly did it all!!! Her great talent will definitely be missed.

Our hearts and prayers go out now to Florence's dear family & friends. God Bless...

In Remembrance: Saying Goodnight to lovely Ronnie Claire Edwards, best known as Corabeth Godsey of 'The Waltons'

This week, on Wednesday June 14, 2016, we sadly lost another member of 'The Waltons' family... the lovely, effervescent Ronnie Claire Edwards, who will always be remembered in our hearts as the eccentric, unconventional, unique character Corabeth Walton Godsey on the family television drama series 'The Waltons'.

image source: allaboutthewaltons.com

Ronnie Claire Edwards was Born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on February 9, 1933. According to tcm.com, "She studied drama at the University of Oklahoma before going on to Broadway. After her screen debut in the 1963 film "All the Way Home," she returned to the stage until '74. That year, Edwards joined the cast of the award-winning family drama series "The Waltons".

Throughout Ronnie's acting career she appeared in various television series, including "Dynasty," "Falcon Crest," "Dallas," "The Torkelsons," "Murder, She Wrote," "Designing Women," and more! She is, however, most remembered from her role on 'The Waltons', from 1975 to June 1981, in which she appeared in over 100 episodes! Created by Earl Hamner, Jr., the show also returned for 6 reunion movies, the last one 'A Walton Easter', airing in 1998.

image via: pinterest

During the course of 'The Waltons' television show, cousin Corabeth Walton, blossomed from a shy sheltered single young woman, to a stylish, classy, vivacious, confident married woman to Ike Godsey, who owned the general store on Walton's mountain.

image via: pinstopin

After Ike and Corabeth married on the show, they became co-proprietors and staples behind the counter of the general store, waiting on members of the Walton family and surrounding neighbors.

Ike and Corabeth also adopted a daughter, Aimee, in the series who befriended Elizabeth, the youngest of 'The Waltons' children.

images via: the-waltons-home-page.com and pinterest

The character of Corabeth Walton Godsey was full of personality, a regular noisy busybody and meddler, who always had an opinion on everything! She was one of those characters you loved to watch because she typically added a lighthearted, comical performance to the series and Ronnie portrayed her perfectly! Sure, Corabeth could be a bit overbearing and particular, at times, but in truth it was evident she adored Ike, Aimee, their little country store, and the Walton family. Ronnie Claire Edwards played the role of Corabeth Walton Godsey, not only with profound flamboyance, but with grace, humility, and love.

image via : gettyimages / CBS

And, now with love, we say "Goodnight" to another member of 'The Waltons'. Our hearts and prayers go out to Ronnie Claire Edward's dear family, friends, and Waltons cast members.

We will always cherish the character of Corabeth Godsey Walton, and we are grateful for the joy Ronnie has brought and will continue to bring into our homes each time we watch an episode of 'The Waltons' with her in it.

With our hearts full of gratitude and love -

we say "Goodnight" Ronnie Claire Edwards...