Amidst the abundant gratitude we feel for those who gave so very much for our freedoms, between the BBQs, parades, parties and pool openings, each year I inevitably find my self cozying up on the couch Memorial Day Weekend. 'Fess up; I know many of you do, too! Why? TV shows that typically are a 30-60 minute "guilty pleasure" segue into hours upon hours of entertaining indulgence via  annual marathons.

CSI, Star Trek, Law & Order, Top Chef, America's Next Top Model (hmmm....whatcha doing right now, Eliza? ;) )...there's something to entice everyone into a lump-like state. As if the assorted series weren't seductive enough to get a gal sitting for extended periods of time, classic films -- especially those that venerate veterans and intensify our appreciation for America -- the channels are chock-full.

An in-the-know galpal emailed me late last week to let me know that my annual weekend movie-fest need not end following the Monday holiday; the programmers at Turner Classic Movies (consistently one of my "go-to" channels) are initiating TCM Essentials, Jr. On Sunday June 1st, the weekly showcase for family-friendly classic films kicks-off with the lovely little Liz Taylor in National Velvet.

The movies will be introduced/hosted by Abigail Breslin and Chris O'Donnell...and guess what's on deck for August 3rd? (A hint: Isabelle is recommending the DVD version in her Italianate "Mama Pick" this week...and a tot tee with the film's heroine is in this week's "Red Ribbon Picks!")

Let's plan some theme party/movie nights for some of these titles, Mamas! (I've got dibs on August 3rd.....)

Off to hang our flag on the door, and then watch some Top Chef while I make a batch of deviled eggs for the cookout---
See you all tonight!
--Allie

PS - Have you SEEN the phenomenal "Props to Pops" prize packages? Flip Video camcorders? Watches? A Mutsy stroller? A DVD burner? Go enter your deserving Daddy!