It's a new year (Chinese Year of the Dog, no less) and a celebration of the previous nineteen - we'll be revisiting the canine companions who are no longer with us, but came to be integral to our families, friends and influenced us all for the better.
Dog is the eleventh in the 12-year cycle of Chinese zodiac sign. The Years of the Dog include 1922, 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030, 2042... Dog is man's good friend who can understand the human's spirit and obey its master, whether he is wealthy or not. The Chinese regard it as an auspicious animal. If a dog happens to come to a house, it symbolizes the coming of fortune. (imagine 30 or 40)
Ed was born in the year of the Monkey, but that's a story for another time.
Though adversity may strike...
We were aghast last year to find that many were not familiar with the Blues Brothers, widely considered to be one of history's iconic works. Right up there with the plays of Shakespeare, the musical works of Mozart, the Mona Lisa... Our bad. This year will be more timely, but you have an assignment. Experience Pixar/Disney's Coco, it's available on DVD, rental or to stream.
The show goes on.
Pixar crafts films that appeal to adults as much or more than well children. They incorporate mature, thought-provoking themes, humor and generally great music. But don't take our word, take our advice and screen Coco. You'll be glad you did and you'll get maximum enjoyment form this year's races. www.amazon.com/COCO
Coco is the adventure of Miguel, an aspiring musician. Miguel’s dreams, and his idolization of golden age singing star are in direct conflict with his disapproving family. A generations-old family tragedy led to all music being banned from the house, meaning Miguel must hide his natural talent.
On Dia de los Muertos, Miguel visits a mausoleum in the town cemetery, and is magically transported to the land of the dead where artists put on wild shows, parties stretch on through the night, and colorful animal spirit guides fly, trot, and crawl alongside their skeletal masters. Did we mention his dog Dante?
