@#$% Evidently it wasn't Sophie's post. Wot happened? Who cares. Thanks goodness it isn't messed up. ;-) Carry on, ladies.

Because this is such a HOT party My good friend Anthony agreed to play tonight, so give it up to The Red Hot Chili Peppers

Need a bag check? You've come to the right place. We provide everything you need for all that baggage. Rubber gloves for that all important hands on check And special apparel...if this were the other way round it would have made the Bag Lady's job a whole lot easier I think I've developed a rubber fettish;-(

You ladies amaze me with your creativity and computer skills. All I tried to do was order a ticket to this 45th birthday bash online, and look what I end up with. So I tried to order a gift bag for a real stud, and this is what came in the mail. So I will just say Happy Birthday, Colin

On the Chicago Sun times website I found the horoscope for Virgo today and they also mention Colins Birthday. VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Be patient with family members today. (Family is forever.) People feel restless, irritable and independent today. Communications don't flow smoothly. Knowing this, you should approach each conversation with a bit of diplomacy and tact. (Just like using an umbrella in the rain. IF SEPT. 10 IS YOUR BIRTHDAY: Actor Colin Firth (1960) shares your birthday. You often discover a career in your younger years. You respect tradition and history. Although privately outrageous, your public persona is conservative. You have a dignified, sophisticated exterior. Professionally, you're conscientious and reliable. The year ahead might be one of the best years of your life. Open any door! ALL SIGNS: We have the all-clear to shop or make important decisions today. http://www.suntimes.com/output/horoscopes/cst-nws-georgia910.html

The following interview was pretaped and will air the week prior to the opening of Where the Truth Lies. Katie: You�ve been reading about this controversial and greatly anticipated movie for weeks. It stars the man who played the wonderful Mark Darcy in Bridget Jones�s Diary and the sequel The Edge of Reason, Colin Firth, and the brilliant actor Kevin Bacon, who continues to build an impressive body of work with such great films as The Woodsman and Mystic River. The movie I�m speaking of is Where the Truth Lies, a sexy mystery-thriller set in the 1950s and 1970s filmed by the renowned Canadian director Atom Egoyan. This morning we�re very lucky to have with us a very important member of the crew. A lady who worked behind the scenes on those closed sets, while Mr Egoyan choreographed the now-infamous m�nage � trois scene reported on in newspapers all over the world, from Peoria to Pyongyang. The lady in charge of modesty bags for Where the Truth Lies: Willa Mussenfluffer. Good morning, Willa. Nice to have you here. Willa: Thank you, Katie. It�s nice to be here and rather surprising. Katie: Why is that? Willa: Crewmembers are rarely called upon to be interviewed, only the hot shots. Katie: If Colin hadn�t mentioned the modesty bags in an interview, I would never have known your job existed and had the pleasure of meeting you. Anyway, there are so many fascinating facets to filmmaking, and most people are not aware of what goes into the making of movies. Your official title is... Willa: Modesty Bag Mistress Katie: And could you describe your responsibilities? Willa: Essentially, when I get a script, I comb through it to determine whether there will be a need for modesty bags and then I determine the specific requirements for the ones that will be in use. Katie: What do you mean the specific requirements? Willa: This is a very technical business, you know. Not only do I need to determine the size and material, but I must discuss lighting and production design with others in the crew to ensure that all elements work together. This isn�t a one-size-fits-all activity. Katie: No, I guess not. But speaking of size, how are fittings done? Willa: Again, Katie, this is highly technical, as allowances must be made for expansion. Even the most talented of actors can, at times, get a little too engrossed with the action and the emotions they�re attempting to project. The bag not only must be durable but able to withstand the stiff pressure from sustained physical activities in a variety of configurations. Katie: Configurations? My! (turns to crew on the side and mouths, �Remind me to follow-up on that point�) We�ll focus in on that in a minute. Let�s get back to the fittings, by which I mean, do you actually have to measure the actor with a simple tape measure or calipers? Willa: Ah, Katie, nothing is simple, as I tried to describe previously. Plus you�re getting into the tricks of the trade here. I do use both instruments, as required. Katie: And the actors don�t mind? Willa: Why should they? I am a professional as are they. Katie: Once the bag has been custom manufactured for a particular actor, is it merely handed over and the actor puts it on himself or do you have a role in that aspect as well? Willa: (taking a bit of umbrage) Naturally, I monitor my work products at all times. Would you just drop off one of your children at the train station and say, �have a nice life?� Katie: (choking) Yes, I see what you mean. So you are a hands-on kind of gal and present whenever the bags are used? Willa: Typically, there�s only one bag used at a time. I don�t work on those kinds of movies... Katie: I didn�t mean any offense. Please continue. Willa: Fine, thank you. However, for this film, the script called for two actors, working in tandem, so I was nearly strained to my capacity as well. Really, now, how can you expect one person to keep their eyes on two bags simultaneously, while they�re shooting with one mastershot? Katie: Yes, I can see where that would be difficult or impossible, without going cross-eyed. So you have your eyes on the actual bag or bags at all times? Willa: Naturally, you can�t expect the cameraman or DP to be bothered or the continuity person, who has so many other details to keep track of. But we all take digital pictures these days as backup. Katie: (eyes shoot wide open) You have pictures? Willa: Well, of course. [Katie puts her finger to her earpiece and begins shaking her head. She seems to be mouthing., �can the next segment�] Katie: I�m so sorry about the interruption. Please continue. You were talking about pictures. Willa: Yes, pictures. Many of the crew need to take pictures of the sets and the actors to ensure continuity with other shots that might be done after breaks, new setups or even the next day. The costumers especially have to get it right or someone somewhere is going to notice that the lining of So and So�s jacket was showing as he walked down the street but wasn�t a frame later. Katie: Oh, so you know about that too. Doesn�t Working Title hire experienced costumers and continuity people? Willa: I�d rather not discuss specific companies like that. One never knows who is watching a show like this. Do many people watch your show, Katie? Katie: (a bit startled) Yes, yes, they do. Willa: That�s good. (looking around) Is there anything else? Katie: As a matter of fact, I�m sure people would like to know about how you came to do this kind of work, the training, that type of thing. Willa: I started out in the wardrobe area. Spent many, many years working my way up. Then, when there was an opening for Modesty Bag Mistress on another production, I went for it. Actually, openings are very rare. Most of my counterparts have been in their positions for ages. Katie: Do you have interns? Willa: On Where the Truth Lies, it would�ve been a godsend to have one because of the above-average amount of simulated sex scenes in this movie but no one thought about it and you can�t just pick up an intern at the drop of a hat. Katie: Oh, I�d bet you could. We�ve talked a great deal about the big picture, what you do in films. Let�s talk a bit about the actors you�ve worked with. How they compare? Willa: (looking horrified) Compare? Compare in what way? Katie: (jumping in) Oooh! I wasn�t going to go there...unless, of course, you want to. I meant more along the lines of how are they to work with. You always hear actors describing sex scenes as the most embarrassing, boring, tedious work there is. Since you are among the select members of the crew allowed on closed sets, is that how it seems to you, especially as it relates to the filming of Where the Truth Lies. [Katie holding finger to ear again and shaking head violently from side to side.] Go ahead, Willa. We have hours. Willa: Yes, I see. There is a certain tediousness, I�m sure, for the actors. However, on Where the Truth Lies the atmosphere was lighter. Mr. Firth was constantly joking about and making the others laugh. He didn�t get overly serious like many other actors I�ve worked with. He and Mr. Bacon got along famously. When they were doing the final shots of the m�nage � trois scene, when...oh I shouldn�t say what happens. Katie: Please go right ahead. We�ll edit it out later. (looks to side and gives a thumbs up) Willa: Alright. I won�t get too specific here, as I don�t want to ruin it for any viewers, but Mr. Bacon was encouraging Mr. Firth to get closer and to make it look as real as possible. Evidently, Mr. Bacon had been watching some of the monitors during Mr. Firth�s kissing scenes and was giving him pointers. Katie: From what you watched, do you think it did look realistic? Willa: (chuckling) It most certainly did. Katie: How were Colin�s kissing scenes? Did he get closer and make those too look as real as possible? Willa: I can�t say, as my eyes are generally focused on an area significantly lower than the mouth. Katie: Your job is truly one of the most fascinating I�ve ever discussed, which includes world leaders, you know. Willa: I�m very flattered that you think so. I�m very happy with it and all the challenges it gives me. Katie: But we really must cut away for...I think it is local weather (shaking head). Thank you so much for joining us today, Willa, and I look forward to seeing Where the Truth Lies very soon. [As the segment ends, Katie is seen handing Willa her personal cellphone number and saying, �We need to talk about those photos. Call me.�]

I love it, Karen (and Kathryn, Lisa, Jenny, Sue, Linda, Evelyn, Felicity, Peggy, Sophie, Sandy, Maureen, Moon, and anyone else I missed). This from the MercuryNews online: BIRTHDAY GUY: Handsome Colin Firth, the Mark Darcy of ``Bridget Jones'' movie fame, was born in Hampshire, England on this day in 1960. Fans may recall his 1989 starring role in the highly lauded period piece ``Valmont'' or his BAFTA Award-winning part as Jane Austen's Mr. Darcy in the beautifully produced 1995 TV version of ``Pride and Prejudice.'' This much-sought-after leading man can be seen this year with Emma Thompson and Angela Lansbury in the children's flick ``Nancy McPhee,'' and costarring with Kevin Bacon in the drama ``Where the Truth Lies.'' He also has two more films in various stages of production called ``The Dead Wait'' and ``Toyer.'' I think those stages are called the "When Hell Freezes Over Stage" and the "Wishful Thinking Stage."

LOL, Karen! Now I know how Katie got the scoop on the bag which led to her winning eBay bid...straight from the bag lady herself! ;-) It all makes sense now....

Loved it all, Karen! ROTFLOL! Willa's a hoot. Favorite line: "You have pictures?" :-)))))))

Karen your Katie/Bag lady interview is totally excellent and hillarious. LOLOLOL with tears of laughter streaming down my face. I am laughing so much that my DH is now casting me very curious glances. I adore the pics of the 'Bag Lady' waaaaay too funny and her 'down to earth'and serious approach to her being a 'jobbing bag lady' ;-)Now wonder if she is hired for TLL? pppssttt, message to 'Bag Lady' if you do get hired for TLL and need an Intern then look no further I can be there at the drop of a hat

Karen,love the bag lady,but wonder why a bag man wasn't employed. Obviously would be too busy comparing sizes. Anyway I found this on www.pendantssociety.com. 'From The Chairman(as I am a man and on a chair) To mark the first anniversary,or if we were a living being rather than a collection of people grouped together in pursuit of similar aims, birthday of our inception; (I think everyone will agree that a semi colon is correct)we asked so called celebrities for their views on Birthdays.Yes it should be a capital B. Ewan MacGregor(possibly sic. but exempt from Pedant rules because it is a Proper noun): Birthday's are just the greatest,best excuse for a piss-up I know, you know down to the pub,like, with a load of mates,then back to mine for a skinful. Terrific. Fellow pedants I'm sure you will concur: Mr MacGregor is not one of us.Or should that be not as we are. No matter, the next gentleman fares no better. Colin Firth: Birthdays? Pedants Society! Yes, well,sorry ,sorry,that wasn't grammatically correct was it? Well obviously I have them,or celebrate,no acknowledge them, I should say. But,no I shouldn't have started my sentence with a but,but,well you know the strangest,well they could be normal,but people, know it's my birthday. I don't know them,they find these things out and they say Happy Birthday, to me. It's very perplexing but quite nice at the same time. I suppose they see me in films or on the TV, and they think,well he's got to have a birthday,just because I'm playing someone who has birthdays.And in some respects, they're right,sorry,correct. But,you know,I don't have any more birthdays than my contemporaries or anyone else in my chosen profession or career or...job. I think it's impossible to get to this stage in my...uumm,career and not have a birthday. What do I do on my birthday? I think that was the question. Just occasionally,well once a year, I will spend some time in my beautiful house with my wonderful children and phenomenal cook of a wife,who also happens to be Italian and very beautiful,and perhaps I should have put her before the house,but maybe not in front of the children..sorry, shouldn't I be talking about bags.... We do not have the space to print the whole of Mr Firth's answer. Far better to let Russell Crowe have the last words: Birthdays!! Piss off or I'll break your neck. Is that pedantic enough for you?'

Yes, I know this is a but much...and I actually hate blinking Christmas lights. :-)

All right...I've never posted before, nor have I introduced myself, but I have to say, that I've been checking in on the birthday party all day long (and will continue with what's left of it.) I love it! I can't remember the last time I laughed so hard all by myself! You're a very witty and talented group of women...thanks for the entertainment! I especially liked the action figures bit...God, I would love my own "Little Col Doll."

Thank you, ladies. Actually my favorite line is: "Go ahead, Will. We have hours." I crack myself up on that one. But I did forget one rather important remark by Katie, when she exlaims, "They pay you to do this?" Oh well, I'll do some more in ten years, the next time Colin puts on the bag. ;-) Felicity! Felicity! Do you have Colin's way of answering downpat. And RC's is perfect too. I think it's impossible to get to this stage in my...uumm, career and not have a birthday. Lisa, your graphics are fantastic. Brava! Such insight.

LOLOLOL, Felicity, I love the www.pendantssociety.com. and you almost got me there cors I was going to check out the url ;-) You've got Colin's interview technique off just perfectly. Waay too funny :-) Welcome Colleen, glad you have joined in the party :-) Soph- When are the 'little Col Dolls'going into production? Am putting in my pre-order right now ;-))

Well,Sue there may well be a Pedants Society, but not a Pendants(my deliberate mistake!!!!Like yeah!)

"Oh good! More!" Am having the best time today!!!! Karen, I don't think I've laughed so hard in ages! Hilarious interview - I think I'll view Katie with a slightly jaundiced eye from now on! Everyone is so clever & creative! Keep 'em coming, ladies! ;-)

Willa.... Mussenfluffer, karen !??!!???!! the name only had me laughing alone like a hyena in my living room (and it's 12H30, i guess the neighbors are going to call the cops) (dear willa, on her way to outfame shirley) "Actually, openings are very rare. Most of my counterparts have been in their positions for ages. " i can't take anymore of this, let me out. (karen, re: the dolls) "I'd bet most of them show up on other Firth websites soon" "... and i will sue" (doing my best leena lamont impersonation), no just keeeding. ewww gutter santa moon: i like mine better, and he's dying to return on stage, hehehe hey linda: did you steal your last item in kevin's wardrobe or what ? i agree about the fetish thing: you're also beginning to sound like a bowie tune "rubber, rubber", etc. peg: michael jackson's celebration of love ???? ROTF! this is grand !

Jingle bells, Jingle bells It's Christmas time again at Cryptic ! All right ladies, now it's past bedtime for the sensitive and younger ones, we can unload the heavy stuff. well, sort of: we got raided by the vice squad. What do you mean, "you fibbed", hey, that's good and honest publicity all right: it even has a name, it's called pulling a Lantos. **Rudolf ! Bring us the specials, and pronto!"** Ooooh, heavy indeed ! Thank you rudolph, now don't get a hernia, there's a drool lady who volunteered to adopt you earlier and we don't want to dissapoint our customers. oooookay, what do we have in the bag ? First model was inspired by Mr. F's radical change re: costume dramas, and no, we are not talking about sissy cravat parts here but about that legionaire role he's accepted recently. Hmmmm, well, we at Cryptic really don't give a char-monkey's arse about roles and acting, but the possibilities in terms of wardrobe had us LOLing a the factory. Short skirts and sandals, pah! Here's a model that goes even further, where wardrobe AND role are very light : easy, all you'll have to do is growl and grunt (and you seem to master that pretty well, mind you): Second model will bring tears in the eyes of some of you drooleuses, tears that is to remind them of endless rewinding and frame by frame analysis of your precious VHS tapes. It would come in handy (so to speak), so don't hesitate: And check out the packaging: it's RC (no no, not PC), meaning remote controlled. The possibilities are endless ! Third model is our next best-seller for sure. There's not much point in pitching it, so i'll let the sample get you all drooling: And that's the end of our infomercial. I'm going to bed now, but i'll post a Cryptic sales result tomorrow before the vault is closed again. Oh i almost forgot: for all those who buy me a doll, there's an extra present : I can almost hear you: what's the use, it never works, blahblahblah. oh ye of little faith....: i strongly advise you to take advantage of this offer: we do not know when another WTTL opportunity for seeing "the bones in the body" may, hem, arise. And on this, night night, sweeties, and party on !

Colleen - Welcome! So glad you have joined us & are enjoying the festivities! Lisa - Outstanding party favors - put me down for one, please? And I loved the newspaper item - great job - so authentic looking! Wow Linda, I am seeing a completely different side now - and it isn't pretty! Funny, but definitely not pretty! ;-) Oh Sophie, I am having such a hard time deciding which TOY BOY best suits my fancy. They are all so good. Ah hell, I think I'll just put in my order for one of each! :-) Peg - love that bag! LOL! You know, I was just thinking - if one can believe all that one "hears", that bag just might work out well for Colin! (Lose the hay, though! "Itches") ;-) Willa: (taking a bit of umbrage) Naturally, I monitor my work products at all times. Would you just drop off one of your children at the train station and say, �have a nice life?� LOL, Karen! I think that's my favorite line!

Somehow I just knew Sophie would *get* the name. ;-) When the name came to me, I knew I had to write that. Lordy!! Another haul from the Drool bag! Wow! They're amazing, Sophie, especially: on the Mr Darcy doll - Caution choking hazard: anatomically correct action figure. OMG. How can I pass up anything with booze and a riding crop. The possibilities are endless. And I don't know how I've gotten through life without x-ray goggles. You've shown me the light. ;-)

Sophie, put me down for the x-ray gogs and the Darcy anatomically correct action figure (choking hazard! LOL!). This has been a lot of fun today. Thanks to everybody. I just hope I can get some of these images out of my mind before bedtime!!

Sophie, you did it again! LOL at the Darcy doll and the X-Ray glasses. V. clever! Welcome, Colleen! Great day to delurk. So Karen, is Willa's cousin Ida Merkinmeister? ;-) Here's a bit of coffee, fair trade, of course:

Okay, I'm at the end of my images for the party. Another twinkly one:

Really, now, how can you expect one person to keep their eyes on two bags simultaneously, while they�re shooting with one mastershot? LOL, Karen. If the job is too much for her, I can lend an extra pair of eyes;-) Sophie, What can I say. You have out done yourself... My favorite of the day...Mr. Darcy's foul mood set. I'm still laughing.

The lady in charge of modesty bags for Where the Truth Lies: Willa Mussenfluffer. Omigod. *wiping tears* Sooo funny, Karen. I don't know where to start, as I came to this party without a present. We do not have the space to print the whole of Mr Firth's answer. LOL, Felicity, you have him down pat! Sophie--everything was brilliant, I especially like what I'm seeing with the x-ray goggles! Lisa, your graphics are fantastic! Linda, are you bringing that, er, contraption to Toronto?;-) Thanks to everyone for the laughs.

My compliments to everyone, I enjoyed all the time and effort you've put in. ROFLMAO at the "choking hazard" and riding crop/booze action figures. Anybody have an itty-bitty wet shirt? I also think Mark Darcy could use the PrepH to take that poker out of his arse. Party On!!!!!!

I had a good idea for another one, but never could get it going. Plus I'm crap at rhyming. I should've turned it over to someone far more capable. In fact, if anyone wants to take a stab at it herself, be my guest: Colin, I know how it is to be stereotyped. But you can't let it get you down. After a few Jesus juices... They all say you can play only one role You�ve gotta be the Brit *********** Just bag it, bag it, bag it, bag it Don't let the little boys grab it [you get the idea]

(Mari)Linda, are you bringing that, er, contraption to Toronto?;-) Eh, if it fits then it goes. Not looking too good at the moment, though;-)

As a sometimes poster, but mostly lurker, thanks to all for a great birthday party, again. This is my third party, and, perhaps the best. Love the barf bags, and Karen, you always outdo yourself. Just wanted to wish Colin a very happy, happy 45th with thanks for keeping me entertained and drooling. And, Everyone, I will confess this would be one time, I wouldn't mind getting stuck holding the BAG (with apologies to Katie's Beg Lady guest.)

What an incredible party! I can�t stop laughing, bravissime! Take a bow, take another one. Karen, and you brought up the kissing too, ROTF! Sophie, wrap me up a complete set. Lisa, you have only just begun and I can only imagine what you will create in the future. Ladies you have risen to the occasion. The King is dead, long live the King! Mari, I missed you.

That's a wrap!

I hope everyone saw the pic on firth.com cause it is coming down very soon.

Okay, Karen, just a few quick verse attempts: Willa told Colin, "Don't forget your bag around here Don't wanna see your front, just your derriere There's just one camera shot and it cannot show your gear So bag it, just bag it. I'll help you cover up, I'll do what I can Ain't allowed to see no goodies in Red, White, and Blue land Cause a ratings board there will slap your hand So bag it, but in the Ziplock brand. Just bag it, bag it, bag it, bag it Though Droolers would rather see it Just bag it, bag it." My thanks to everyone's contributions. It's been a great day. :-)

I�m not ready to wrap! Buon Compleanno, baby!

Oh my . .I�m late, I�m late for a very important date . . . COLIN!!!!. .I�m so sorry I�m late for your b�day party . . But you know, all this talk of bags and I had to go shopping . . . . Cause I�ve heard you�re ready to let that I personally like to brown bag it myself . . . But I finally found something . . Hope it�s a good fit . . .wear it in good health! Happy B�day Darlin�!!!! Sending you MG love and all the iggy I can spare . .

Good job, Kathryn. I knew I should've turned it over to someone else. No time and no rhyme. ;-) To everyone who brought prezzies to this year's party: As always you continue to outdo yourselves and delight us all in the process.

There's still 15 minutes left in my September 10, so I'm delurking to say a huge THANK YOU to all the intelligent, funny, and html-talented ladies who have made the last 30 hours so much fun. This is my first birthday party, but it won't be my last, you can bet. Happy, happy birthday to ODB, Lovely Colin, the only REAL Darcy.

Lovely day, you brilliant, creative, "dames de Drool". Sophie, what a hoot, I'll take a Darcy-doll any day. Moon, your contributions were certainly stellar, and Karen, Willa was also a keeper, never thought I would want to be a bag lady. To the rest, thank you for the laughs. Thanks, and above all, happy birthday to the author of our feast, best wishes for the coming year!

After the lord Mayors show..... Just popping in to say thanks to everyone, you are all so clever, talented and so very wonderful.It's been a blast..and like all the best parties I don't want it to end but .... I just wanted to say that drooling around with you guys and Colin is a bit like pooping your pants - once you've done it it's difficult to walk away from .(Thanks to Sue 1280 for the inspiration .....) Hope everyone enjoyed the party even us wall flowers who watch and wonder from afar....You all have a wonderful time in Toronto and good luck with our man....will be waiting for news.....

ever since i landed on drool, i've had a weekly dose of such good fun i never had any desire to check the competition. but sept. parties are really special... thanx everyone, this place ***rocks!**** a last word from cryptic: so far, i've got colleeen, lisa and sue for a Little Col Doll �, sue also gets rudolph (you greedy girl, you know he has jingling bells attached), maureen and moon get a full set (weeeeelllll, i won't comment on this, but some people obviously have no limit whatsoever) and peg gets darcy. as far as barb is concerned, it's not very clear, she placed an order for little col but changed her mind and went for a full set: please barb, contact our sales department. everybody gets googles of course. i still have a special wind-up toy in stock, but i'm saving it for the boss's bday. ahahahahahahaha ! i'm rich! rich! rich!

Gina - ROFLOL,Heck, I will never view milk/dark chocolate in the same way again,think I will stick to milky bars in future ;-)) (Soph) sue also gets rudolph (you greedy girl, you know he has jingling bells attached) Ohhhhh, "Thank you, Thank you, Thank you", especially for Rudolph, I will take good care of him and will make sure that I 'jingle his bells' on a regular basis. Just one question, I presume that he isn't battery driven, do I 'wind him up' to get some action!? ;-) ppsstt,I would also like the 'Mr Darcy, Foul Mood Set'because I have a 'fondle'need for Mr Darcy ;-)

Fantastic party! And Sophie, our Man on the Moon (wouldn't *she* love it) is near and dear to my heart. Here's hoping Cryptic's sales skyrocket after such a launching. BTW, I'm keeping Willa's sister Ida Mergenmeister in reserve for another hair-raising though in-depth interview. ;-) Thanks to you all for making yesterday a huge success. Okay, it didn't help out one poor third-world farmer (unless Sophie is donating yesterday's profits)...but there are 364 other days in the year. ;-)

Ladies, this was a most enjoyable experience! I had to check today to see what I missed...I've spent my Sunday morning in a most irreverent fashion! Drool is a blast! Sophie...I'd like to add the Darcy doll to my order, if only for the riding crop and booze hmmm...

Can't wait to see Ida's interview,Karen. Ummm Oscar party???(big snort). It's possible to have a good time as well as help others.I expect even third world farmers have fun. It's a clever little idea to honour someone and contribute at the same time, but it's also just as worthy to contribute anonymously whenever you feel like it. Next party in a couple of days,eh? Over on the news channel. Bon voyage you Crazy Girls.Give Colin a nice civilized handshake from me.

Thank you, thank you, thank you all so much. Just got back from a long weekend away and have only just caught up - I know, my timing sucks - but WHAT A RIOT!!! So much talent, so much wicked humour - no wonder this is such a great site. Can't wait for next year!

Moving Moon's suggestion here: I feel obliged to remind everyone that it's time to start thinking of themes for ODB's birthday party, the "enchanted" party. ;-) Now, clink your swords together and see what happens. :-D Any and all ideas are welcome. I was going to start the process tomorrow anyway.

I was just thinking of this over the weekend and was surprised it hadn't been mentioned yet.

Why? It's a month away. Plenty of time, though he's been so out of the public eye that recent quotes on which to base this year's party don't exist. Hmmm, that Travelocity gnome might have possibilities. ;-)

As for 'enchanted swords'...it's been overdone on plenty of sites and I'm glad not here. Oui can do better. ;-)

Hmmm. I want to go back and listen to Desert Island Discs and see if he gave oui any fodder for the big day:-)

What about a 'Where's Waldo?' theme?

Or Ou est Charlie....as they call it in France. Well he does wear a lot of striped shirts and I can see the possibilties with the recent spate of blogger sightings. You could alter it slightly and call it Spot the Banker. What about an Advertising theme? Remembering that he was rumoured to be doing some ads for Marks and Spencer(he denied it). Colin Firth has signed a lucrative contract to be the new face for Frizz Ease. Can anyone,without too much trawling through the posts,come up with past themes(please)?

1998 - no theme 1999 - regional foods 2000 - psychedelic party for his 40th 2001 -�Take No Prisoners� and �We Like You Just as You Are� (beginning of roast/toast) 2002 - Turn the Ship Around, the Si Cara 2003 - The Range is broad (aka Home, Home on the Range or I'm Back in the Saddle Again! 2004 - Get that Char-Monkey Off Your Back or The Stage Beckons 2005 - Colin�s Got a Brand New Bag

Thanks. Shame it's pertaining to the same area as last year, because non-presentational underwear(contained in an extremely shaggy dog tale) would have to be the quote of the year.

The window story...might have promise: Jambs You Couldn't Get Out Of Panes in the Neck

Ah yes! There was also that French interview when there was some debate about the translation of what most annoyed him: 'bloody pains'. I think was the final choice.

Window of opportunity. Window dressing.

My Sword Gives Me A Pain. My Sword Is Long and Firm.

'Whom framed Colin Firth?' 'Caught in the sash'

Or how about 'Colin Firth's - A Glass Act'

Stretching the glass image-- Through a mirror, darkly. Mirror, mirror, on the wall.... The mirror crack'd from side to side.

Rear Window From Sash to Ash(to staight to DVD) Roman Blind Steamy windows

What about something to do along the theme of him doing more kid oriented films this year? (Felicity) From Sash to Ash(to staight to DVD) LOL!!

Like Mr Rogers' Neighborhood? Hmmm, but that's pretty US-centric.

Felicity) From Sash to Ash(to staight to DVD) Too funny, Felicity. I vote for that one. (DVD=Ash-es;-))

(Dorine), What about something to do along the theme of him doing more kid oriented films this year? I thought about that too. "Cookie" Colin. ;-) And yet, there's WTTL: Colin in Wonderland. So close to naked but yet so far...

Well I just had to find out who Mr Rogers was(is). Sweet. Good website. Colin in a cardigan. Sort of 'folky and approachable'.

(Felicity) Colin in a cardigan. Sort of 'folky and approachable'. LOL! Yes. Only he has to keep moving neighborhoods as soon as the neighbors get too friendly ;-)

(Kathy) Only he has to keep moving neighborhoods as soon as the neighbors get too friendly ;-) LOL! Good angle. Hadn't thought it through. There used to be a very funny spoof of Mr Rogers on SNL many years ago, with Eddie Murphy: Mr Robinson's Neighborhood. Classic stuff. You can see a clip here: http://thetravisty.com/Saturday_Night_Live/wmv/Mr._Robinsons_Neighborhood_-_Music.htm

OMG, I used to LOVE those skits! Some of my favorites on SNL ever.

I can feel a theme coming on...Mr.Rogers. I've been hearing the little tinkle of the train whistle all day. Prince Tuesday, and King Friday. Whoopie! It's a beautiful day in the neighborhood! Maybe oui can go to the crayola factory with Colin, and the supermarket, or even the leather and whips store. Oh, you know I'm always bad on Colin's birthday. But if we do Mr. Rogers theme I'll fell sooooo guilty;-)

(Linda) or even the leather and whips store LOL! and maybe a demonstration of those legendary chocolate-flavored condoms. Sweets are a must-have item in the neighborhood ;-)

Colin in the "Hood", LOL, or "Red" district Colin?

(Linda) Prince Tuesday, and King Friday. And who was that chick that ran that museum? God knows what could really be in there, especially with being Colin's bday and our minds at work. But the theme would have to be broader. Those outside of the US don't know who and what he and the show were like.

That's what I said about it being US-centric. Sheesh, I don't even know what the show was like, other than the parody. I never watched it.

I watched it religiously. Loved when he went to that puppet kingdom!

I'd be at as much of a loss as the ladies from outside the US for a Mr. Rogers theme, too, as I never saw either the show or the parody.

I never watched it either.

(Karen) U.S.Centric On second thoughts you may have a point. Can we have Mr Firth complete with red cardy(and with whips if you insist Linda) in the London Borough of Chissington.With a nice little button shop just down the road,good public transport and a nice little fete to open in the summer? I mean I don't want the birthday boy to miss the point of the party.

Nothing has been decided yet. Keep tossing out ideas, themes, catchy-phrases, and whathaveyou. ;-)

Well apart from the flagrant 'Hey Woody gives us a job' and a quote from Emma Thompson along the lines of' It was difficult to believe looking at Colin that he could have this many children' I'm clean out of ideas. I'm sure something more could be made of the Golden Globes, particularly the Joan Rivers fiasco...but I don't kmow what.

Something about his once promising film career turning to kid films and TV?

I'm so glad oui are working on naming this year's theme! (Felicity) From Sash to Ash(to staight to DVD) LOL, Felicity! This is my favorite, too. And there is the fact that this rhymes with "cash." ;-) Perhaps the kiddy theme could conjur up Dr. Suess...Hop on Pop, or similar. Or is Dr. Suess also too American-centric?

Closing tags, I hope. Bad, bad Lisa.

Sad but true, my imagination is still fired-up by the window theme, a few more idea's have been floating around in my head. Colin Firth's new staring role in - 'Room with a non-presentational View' Directed by: Sash A. Trap Genre: Drama/Feature Film Plot Summary: Firth meets neighbours in rarefied/panestaking circumstance Aspect/Format: Widescreen/Pan and Scan Wardrobe/makeup: Non requiement, Actor's own clothes and 'Aux naturelle' look Film Location: Suburb of West London Other suggestions 'non-window' theme are 'DVD Island Discs' Picking at random some articles from the past year. There was the 'Milk and Honey/Toilets' mention in Australian Telegraph. Can something be gotten from Colin's answer when asked his main personality trait (CF)"An obsessive need for precision." One last idea is how about a theme is Colin's bearded look from the last year.

LOL, Sue! Lots of great ideas there!

v. clever idea, Sue! There needs to be a message too. But you've truly gone beyond what's necessary to explain how the theme can be 'fleshed' out by partygoers. ;-)

LOL Karen,and oppss was getting carried away as to thoughts of Colin being in a production wearing next to nothing again ;-) BTW, Can you give me an idea of what type of message? and I shall put my thinking hat on :-)

If you look at the last five, there's a message about his work: 2001 -�Take No Prisoners� and �We Like You Just as You Are� 2002 - Turn the Ship Around, the Si Cara 2003 - The Range is broad (aka Home, Home on the Range or I'm Back in the Saddle Again! 2004 - Get that Char-Monkey Off Your Back or The Stage Beckons 2005 - Colin�s Got a Brand New Bag

Thanks Karen, must now think how I can link in the idea with a message. Help! ;-) A couple of ideas for now. Not sure if they are quite what 'qui' are looking for though. 'Celebration' of a non-presentational view! or 'and when did you last see Colin Firth?'on the large screen, small screen or 'sashed'.

Have been racking my brain to come up with a message in connection with Colin's recent work to tie in with the window incident but am failing miserably so how about something along the lines of a mixed up, paraphrased quote from WTTL. 'Come on in Colin Honey, the Spring water is fine, its wonderland! and can hazzard a guess that 'The price of seclusion'gets you stuck in a paneful jamb"

'Room with a non-presentational View' - Put a padlock on the nursery ;-)

Dino De Laurentis proudly presents The Hand in the Sash, a Swords and (Clarke's)Sandals Epic. Or with reference to DID, In Search of the Lost Cause.

Put a padlock on the nursery ;-) LOL.

Put a padlock on the nursery ;-) LOL. (Felicity) In Search of the Lost Cause. Good one! Can we combine the 2 above somehow? ;-)