This End Up

I missed yesterday . . . was extremely tired and had to wake up by going to the gym. Now, I'm not sure if I'll be posting entries tomorrow and Friday because of the holiday.

Today's puzzle, by Norma Steinberg, is called "Making Ends Meet," and contained some nice theme answers:

Sean Connery as
James Bond

20A: Film line first said by Connery (BOND, JAMES BOND). Funny, I never got into 007, but my nephew Jesse is a huge fan. In fact, it was his bar mitzvah theme. It's hard to believe the original novels were written by the same person who wrote Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Ian Fleming (1908-1964) was from a wealthy and connected family and was a star student at Eton. He was also the architect of two successful World War II missions, Operation Mincement  and Operation Goldeneye. Of all the actors who played James Bond, Sean Connery remains the most popular. The site of the James Bond International Fan Club has tons of information about the actors, films, and the Bond Girls.

36A: Options-open adage (NEVER SAY NEVER). This was the title of an '80s song by the band Romeo Void.

When this song first came out, everyone expected the lead singer (Debora Iyall) to be a blonde, sex-kitten type (a la Debbie Harry). People were shocked at her overweight and disheveled appearance. Gotta love the lyrics, however!

52A: Words on a sample (HOME SWEET HOME). I don't do samplers and my home isn't sweet. . . .

Today's cryptoquote, by Joseph Campbell, defines the midlife crisis perfectly:

"Midlife is when you reach the top of the ladder only to discover it's leaning against the wrong wall."

Joseph Campbell (1904-1987) was best known for his work in comparative mythology and comparative religion. He also was a professor at Sarah Lawrence College, where he wound up marrying one of his students. Campbell was fascinated with Native American culture, as well as the works of James Joyce. Check out The Joseph Campbell Foundation for more information about his life and works.

Are Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore splitting up? Rumor has it . . . I hope not.

L'Shana Tova to all those who are celebrating! May the New Year bring you good health, peace, and happiness!

Signing off,

The Puzzlechick