Jane Fonda

NEW MEXICO NEW GARDEN

Jane — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 22:02:11 +0000

At my beautiful ranch. As I sat at my desk today writing, I watched the perfect snow storm…big, dry snow flakes coming down like in one of those glass shake ‘em up snow ball things. It didn’t last but so what. The sun came out and I saw a huge bird dive into the river and pull up a trout. At first I though it was a blue heron but then I saw that it was brown with a white breast…huge. Tried to see closer with binoculars but it flew away. Gotta call Ted and ask him what he thinks it was. He’ll know. He knows everything about birds. Wanted to get mad cause it ate my fish but then I reminded myself that I have to accept nature’s violence…the natural law of things. The big bird needed food. Still, with the money I’ve spent over the years making the river healthy, that fish was probably worth a grand! Once, while looking out my office window, I saw a deer swimming down the river, only its head above water. That meant it was escaping something. That’s how deer sometimes get away from cougar. It’s a bit cold for me to hike, but just looking out at the mountains and river makes me feel good.

View out the window at my desk. I was inspired to design this window when I saw the Hobbitt houses in "Lord of the Rings." My office is like a cave with ceiling to floor books and a vaulted ceiling. I call it my 'soul' space and I can see the river from here.

From my cliff, I can see the river coming...

...and going

Here a deep hole right in front of my house. I can see some fish but you probably can't from the photo.

A statue on the portal of the Black Madonna done by the folk artist Missionary Mary Proctor.

Having lost my vegetable garden about every year due to late Spring frosts, I’ve decided to invest in this hooped garden which will provide food even when it’s snowing. If one has even a little bit of land, there’s little that is as exciting as growing, picking, harvesting and cooking your own healthy vegetables and edible flowers. Young people can learn about growing. Older people can get the beds raised up so they don’t have to bend over. And over time, you save money. The manufacturer, Ken Kuhne, mentioned that he makes special fees for non-profits and has set them up in and around Santa Fe at homes for teen moms and seniors.

This is Ken. For more information visit his website: www.growyown.com. The beds can be made to cover a tiny amount of ground or a lot. Either way makes it possible to grow food year round.

This is what the garden area looked like this morning before the guys started work to install the 'hooped' garden.

We'll plant the beds tomorrow with all sorts of vegetables, edible flowers and strawberries.

Here are some pictures from beds Ken has done that are already growing.

A cottonwood tree that I had trucked down from Ted's ranch north of here 5 years ago (The Vermejo Park Ranch) died so I'm having it replaced. Those others are also from his ranch.

Julio has done a lot of tree work for me. I always say, "Julio, I'm too old for saplings. I want trees that are already big. Julio is a very talented tree transplanter!

Here I am with Julio and his sons and son-in-law.

A TRIP BACK TO ATLANTA

Jane — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 17:05:03 +0000

View From Hotel

I’m here for various events on behalf of my non-profit, The Georgia Campaign for Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention, and to see my daughter and grandkids. It’s been rainy and cold but still, as always, Atlanta is a warm and friendly place and I love being back and seeing so many friends and colleagues

That's Margaret Mitchell's house down there, seen from my Atlanta hotel window. Mitchell wrote "Gone With the Wind" and her home is an historic monument

Kris Spain, a business woman who is on our board of directors, opened her home to forty women who came to hear me speak about our work and my new book, “Prime Time.”

A nice dog lover offered to hold Tulea (yes, I brought her with me!) while I spoke. There was even a woman who had a coton de Tulear from the same breeder in Montreal that I bought Tulea from. I think they’re cousins in fact! What a small world.

Yesterday we had a similar luncheon with 20 women at Ginny Brewer’s home and it was a very moving event for me. There were a number of women I hadn’t seen in a long time, women I had gotten to know quite well before I moved away. Some had been to my ranch and fished with me in times gone by. As I spoke of my own experiences with love and divorce and learning through pain, I saw tears of recognition and realized that in the almost three years that I’ve been away, many of their lives have changed as well. Marriages have ended and the scary questions of “what do I do now? Who am I now? Will anyone ever love me again,” are very present in their lives just as they have been in mine in years past. One thing we all had in common was the realization of the importance of our women friends. What would we do without each other? I reminded them how lucky women are to have such intimate relationships to get us through. This is something that is much harder for men. Yes, men have their buddies and they talk about sports and cars and whatever, but intimacy, the sharing of deep emotions and empathy comes harder for most men.

We had a wonderful board of directors dinner last night but I could feel myself getting sick. In fact, after coming all this way, I wasn’t able to attend our board meeting today. I’m feeling better now, though and pretty certain I’ll be able to bring my grandchildren to see “Cavalia” tomorrow, the show with horses and then have dinner with my daughter and son-in-law, and take everyone to see “Hugo.” I’ve already seen it and absolutely loved it—but not in 3-D– so that’s what we’ll do tomorrow night. Then I’m going to my ranch to try and finish up my new books about adolescent sexuality and, relationships.

At "Cavalia" in Atlanta with my grandkids. Amazing space. Space age big top!

Approaching the big tent in mid town Atlanta to see Cavalia's new show, Odysseo

The poster

I thought it was even better than the first Cavalia. Not only were there the amazing horses (many breeds, not just the white Arabs shown here though they are my favorite), but extraordinary acrobats, eleven of them from Guinea—all cousins I was told—and a vast, panoramic set that became the steppes of Russia, the plains of Africa, melting snow, many settings that had richness and texture.

After Cavalia, I took my grandkids to meet my daughter and son-in-law to have dinner at the Buckhead diner and then we saw "Hugo" in 3-D which was a hit with everyone. The lead boy, Hugo, reminds me of my grandson, Malcolm.

AWARDS SEASON AGAIN!

Jane — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 18:53:28 +0000

The parties are back-to-back and the nominees pretty much go to them all. Richard and I go to the ones that feature the films, actors and directors we especially admire.

Yesterday, just about every major film star and major director, well, 125 of us, who has worked for Paramount Pictures, gathered on a sound stage to have our group photo taken for the studios 100th anniversary. Let me tell you, it was very thrilling. I was in the 90th anniversary photo and many of the same people were assembled. Some, obviously, have passed. I think especially of Jane Russell who was there with us 10 years ago.

I wish I could have taken pictures of everyone there but it wasn’t possible. Here are the ones I did get:

Melanie Griffith with George Clooney behind her.

Eva Marie Saint. She has known my family for many decades. She was at my father’s home where we all gathered the day he died. They were extremely close. She is the nicest, kindest, most lively woman...still. I loved seeing her again

Marlee Matlin and her long-time associate, who signs for her. They’ve worked together for as long as I’ve known her—which is a long time.

Mark Wahlberg and Leonardo DiCaprio. Tyrese is behind them. They’re clearly not happy that I asked them to pose for me. Tough!

Don Cheadle, Jennifer Beals and George Clooney

Josh Brolin, making a face. We seem to run into each other at these events and I always find him warm and loveable.

Paula Patton, was placed close to me so I had the chance to get to know her a little. She’s gorgeous, wonderful in Mission Impossible (not usually my favorite genre but it was a perfect action movie and my heart was in my throat when Tom Cruise ran down the building in Dubai—I saw it being built). Paula was so warm and sweet to everyone. I was impressed. Darn! I don’t have a picture!

Jack Black

The stage with the white platforms we will soon inhabit, with Paramount's logo behind. Everyone was assigned a place and some of us were told how to pose. Justin Bieber was at the very back and top of the stairs sitting. Demi Moore (looked terrific!) was lying down on the stairs right behind me.

Billy Bob Thornton

Justin Beiber talking to Antonio Banderas

Martin Scorsese. His film, “Hugo”, is one of my favorites...and I haven’t even seen it in 3-D yet. Even so, I was transported into a fantasy that was picture perfect in every way.

By the way, my primary Paramount film was “Barefoot In The Park.”

Cameron Diaz

John Travolta talking to (I think) my old pal, Bruce Dern and J.J. Abrams. I first met John right after he’d made Saturday Night Fever, introduced by our mutual friend, the writer/director (Urban Cowboy & The China Syndrome), James Bridges. Bruce made “ They Shoot Horses, Don’t They?” with me.

Barbra Streisand. Sorry my flash didn’t work on this.

Mickey Rooney. He was at the last Paramount shoot 10 years ago and he’s still effervescent and endearing.

So, those who were there but I didn’t photograph (and it’s not a full list!) were Meryl Streep, Glenn Close, Robert Downey Jr., Morgan Freeman, Sumner Redstone, DeNiro, Jerry Lewis (!), Jack Nicholson, Tom Cruise, William Shatner, Steven Spielberg, Jaimie Lee Curtis, Brad Pitt, Kevin Costner, Olivia Newton John, Dustin Hoffman…I can’t go on. It was awesome.

We also attended a luncheon honoring Marty Scorsese and his film “Hugo.”

Brad Grey, President of Paramount Pictures, is standing, talking abut Marty. He was co-host of the luncheon with Robert DeNiro.

That's Sharon Stone turning to listen to Brad Grey

DeNiro's turn to talk about Marty. He was very funny

Richard and I were at a table with Mike Medavoy (who was my agent ions ago before he became a successful producer) and his wife, Irena, and, shown here, Julian Fellowes and his wife. Julian is the creator and main writer of “Downtown Abbey,” the amazing TV series which is nominated for a Golden Globe tomorrow night.

Sir Ben Kingsley

Marty speaking

Here are this year’s films I think are “must-see:” “The Descendents“, “Money Ball“, “Hugo“, “The Artist“, “Midnight in Paris“, “The Help” and “Bridesmaids“. There is also the Iranian film, “A Separation“, which I found important and profound. Angelina Jolie’s movie, “Land of Blood and Honey“, is also a really well done, moving film about the war in former Yugoslavia. Performances that are amazing though not in these pictures include, in my opinion, Meryl’s, Glenn Close’s, and Michelle Williams.

Later this evening I will present the Golden Globe to the Best Picture in the Musical/Comedy category. Stay tuned!

“FIRM & BURN” – hand jive

admin — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 17:09:30 +0000

A quick clip from one of my latest DVD’s FIRM & BURN.

PRIME TIME 2012!

Jane — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:34:17 +0000

HAPPY 2012! I hope your year is off to a good start, and that we will all find this to be the year we are Surthriving! (Combo of survive and thrive). I must say I am absolutely thrilled with how 2012 has begun. Fist, my episode of “Oprah’s Master Class” is airing this Sunday at 10PM ET/PT on OWN. I’m really excited about it and flattered that she choose me as her first guest for Season 2. Oprah lined up a great class this season that includes lessons from Jon Bon Jovi, Goldie Hawn, Morgan Freeman and even my favorite Ex Husband among others. I know I’ll be watching.

Second, my latest PRIME TIME Workouts “FIRM & BURN” and “TRIM TONE & FLEX” have been in the top ten since their release last month.

My latest workouts are a lot like the ones I used to do. I’m in a studio, with other people who are all at different fitness levels. The music is fun and we even have Live musicians. The workouts are geared towards older people or people who perhaps haven’t worked out in a long time, either way you will get a really great workout. I’ve gotten some incredibly moving feedback from my virtual family. One 80 year old woman said she’s never worked out before and this has changed her life. (her son gave them to her for Christmas.) Even 40 year olds are saying they’ve lost weight and feel great!

Thanks to all of you who have been with me to help make PRIME TIME such a success I could never accomplish any of this without such incredible support. I hope you will continue to write to me on Facebook, Twitter, and my blog about your progress. I wish I could actually answer every comment or question, but know that I do read your feedback and it really helps as I move forward.

Here we are doing the hand jive on the new “Firm & Burn” DVD ENJOY!

Keep Walking to Stay Mentally Sharp

admin — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 20:55:58 +0000

By: Gary W. Small, M.D.

My wife’s 103-year-old grandmother lived in a third floor walk-up apartment in New York City. Every day she walked up and down those stairs several times to go shopping, to the post office, the dry cleaner’s and do other little errands. At 103, she was as sharp as a tack. She never forgot a birthday, an anniversary or a single holiday. And God forbid you forgot to send her a card or call her on her birthday — you’d hear about it for ages. The exercise she got on those stairs and errands may not only have protected her heart so she could live past 100, it may also have protected her brain.

Walking is one of the safest and easiest ways to get an aerobic workout. How much walking or exercise each person needs depends on their baseline fitness level, age and other health factors. And getting short amounts of cardio workouts throughout the week is more effective than being a weekend warrior who only exercises on Saturday and Sunday.

CLICK HERE TO READ COMPLETE ARTICLE

BOB SEGER

Jane — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 04:51:27 +0000

You gotta understand, I’ve always loved Bob Seger. When I hear “Night Moves,” or “Against the Wind,” or “Horizontal Bop” among the many others, I am transported to specific times, exciting times, romantic, sensual times and it makes me so happy. He hasn’t been touring for a long time so when he got his manager to invite me to come to the Staples Canter for his concert last night Richard and I jumped at the chance.

I met him years ago at the L.A. Forum and have a picture of us together then but here we are now…none the worse for wear. His voice was strong as ever, his band extraordinary and, one of the women back-up singers said Bob may be starting to work on a new album. Fingers crossed.

My partiality for him pre-existed my discovery—during a radio interview he did in 1981– that his song, “Her Strut,” was motivated by moi!!!! He confirmed it last night. I am flattered, to say the least and you’ll know why when you hear the lyrics. Bob sang it last night and did a shout out to me in front of a packed stadium.

With Bob Seger

with Bob Seger and Priscilla Presley

Nigel Lythgoe, Seger and Priscilla Presley

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL

Jane — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 22:11:33 +0000

I wish all my social media friends a wonderful Holiday. I am in Aspen, Colorado. Been here 5 days and return home today. Not skiing. Too nervous I might throw out my hip or knee replacement but, gotta say, if we come back next year I’m gonna bite the bullet and do some easy slopes. Ditto Richard. He hasn’t skied this time either. BUT, I did walk up Buttermilk Mountain in the snow, ascending from 7500 to 10,500ft. It was challenging because I haven’t been working out for 2 weeks because of travel and promotion work. It took 2 hours. Oh boy, was my body sore that night! But I was so glad I did it and grateful that my friend, Annika, gave me the motivation (she’s of Swedish descent!) and led the way.

My daughter, Vanessa, her husband and my grandchildren, are here and will stay longer. The kids are really getting into the skiing. It’s so great when they can start young...not as far to fall and joints more flexible so injuries fewer. I’m about to take everyone to a Xmas brunch.

Tonight, back in L.A., I’ll see my son Troy, his wife Simone and her parents.

Merry Christmas from Tulea!

Richard on the Gondola

With Abe and Annika Somer. Our first lunch at the base of Aspen Mountain. Best hamburger I ever had! And truffled French fries. Yum

Elk statue in front of our hotel

Blowing out the candle at my Dec 21st birthday dinner. I was very moved by the letters and messages I got from friends all over the world. I feel very blessed to have such friends. I’ve been so lucky!

Spinach and Roasted Chestnuts

admin — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:38:04 +0000

Spinach and Roasted Chestnuts

Recipe type: Side Dish

Author: Jane Fonda

Prep time: 25 mins

Cook time: 30 mins

Total time: 55 mins

Serves: 4

Ingredients

8 oz whole chestnuts, unshelled
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 shallot, peeled and minced
12 oz spinach, stems trimmed
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Instructions

Preheat an over to 400 degrees F
Using a sharp knife, cut an X in the flat side of each chestnut and spread the nuts in the bottom of a roasting pan. Roast until the shells split, 15-20 minutes. Cool to the touch. Remove and discard the shells and inner brown skin.
In a large nonstick frying pan over medium heat, heat the oil. Add the shallot and garlic and saute, stirring frequently, until the spinach wilts, about 5 minutes. Add the pepper and chestnuts and saute until the chestnuts are warm, about 5 minutes.
To serve, divide among 4 individual plates.

Calories: 136 Fat: 4g Saturated fat: 1g : 23g Fiber: 2g Protein: 3g Cholesterol: 0

Notes

Chestnuts are lower in fat than many counterparts in the nut family. Roasting brings out their flavor, while softening their texture. Toss chestnuts into your favorite salads, rick and pasta dishes for added protein and flavor.

BIRTHDAY PARTY & DEPRESSION ERA XMAS PARTY

Jane — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 23:09:17 +0000

This weekend I attended two parties, Friday a birthday party for Arnold Stiefel, and Saturday a themed Christmas Party. The Christmas party theme was The Great Depression. I went as Tom Joad, my father’s iconic character from “Grapes of Wrath”and Richard as a corrupt banker. A fantastic big band played the music from that era which people danced to. Danny Elfman sang. He even did scat and he sung in Hebrew. He was remarkable……….

With Arnold Stiefel (the Birthday boy), and Richard.

Me and Arnold

Polly Anthony, Arnold, and Richard

Danny Elfman's rambunctious mother, Clare.

The speakeasy.

This enterprising woman actually found a copy of Variety magazine announcing the collapse of Wall Street in the '30s.

A few flappers.

Me as Tom Joad (well, okay, in eye makeup!), Danny Elfman, Simone and Troy as Bonnie and Clyde.

Simone makes a darn good Bonnie, don't you think?