Sunday, June 29
Austin Update
Just wanted to let any Birdie folks who read my blog know that I talked with Hugo/Austin on Friday night. The appendectomy went well, and he proudly announced that he has four holes in his side now (he assured me that they are nicely stitched up -- no gaping holes). He has to wear bandages for the next couple of weeks, but he only had a two-day recovery, so he should be up and walking today. Yay!
Straight Hair
Pretty much everyone I know at some point asks me if I ever straighten my hair. The answer is: rarely. I feel like I'm mean to my hair when I put all that product in it and use a hair dryer and flat iron. Plus, the curly hair suits me.
I straighten my hair myself maybe three times a year for various reasons. However, every stylist I let touch my hair needs to straighten it for me. They either just want me to come out looking differently than I went in, or they just want to see if it can be done. I always giggle when I tell a new stylist it's naturally curly, but she washes my hair and says "wow! It really is curly!" Um, yeah.
Anyway, I straightened it a few months ago and then went over to my Aunt and Uncle's house for Mother's Day. Turns out they had never before seen me with straight hair! I was shocked! I swear I had it straight my entire seventh-grade year. Weird.
So, just for fun, here's a photo of me after my latest haircut in March (where, of course, the stylist felt the need to straighten my hair, probably to cover up the fact that she had ignored all of my instructions... but that's another story):
Meanwhile, this is me photoshopped into a still from Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Just in case anyone wondered what I'd look like as a brunette...
Different, eh?
I straighten my hair myself maybe three times a year for various reasons. However, every stylist I let touch my hair needs to straighten it for me. They either just want me to come out looking differently than I went in, or they just want to see if it can be done. I always giggle when I tell a new stylist it's naturally curly, but she washes my hair and says "wow! It really is curly!" Um, yeah.
Anyway, I straightened it a few months ago and then went over to my Aunt and Uncle's house for Mother's Day. Turns out they had never before seen me with straight hair! I was shocked! I swear I had it straight my entire seventh-grade year. Weird.
So, just for fun, here's a photo of me after my latest haircut in March (where, of course, the stylist felt the need to straighten my hair, probably to cover up the fact that she had ignored all of my instructions... but that's another story):
Meanwhile, this is me photoshopped into a still from Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. Just in case anyone wondered what I'd look like as a brunette...
Different, eh?
Saturday, June 28
Good-Bye "Bye Bye Birdie"
Bye Bye Birdie closed on Thursday night. I admit, I'm exhausted and excited to get to spend time doing other things, like working and sleeping and all those things posted in "Still Awake", but I already miss the show, the cast, and the whole experience.
At Kate's advice, I auditioned for the play in March, a little dubious that the pro team would actually consider me for Kim. After all, I'm 29 years old... nearly twice as old as the character. To my surprise and delight, I got the part anyway, and even better, Kate earned her dream role as Rose Alvarez, which meant that we finally got to do a show together!
Music rehearsals came first, which make me nervous especially when I have solos, which I did this time. Fortunately, our fearless music director, Candice, is patient and talented and knew what she wanted. I don't sing high soprano very often -- I pretend I prefer to sing Alto, but most of the time I'm just worried I won't hit the required high notes -- so I was always worried Candice and Steph would trade looks when I missed the A flat in "One Boy" like "why did we cast her again?" Fortunately, if they did I didn't see it, and by the time we actually opened that note (and the B flat in "Hymn for a Sunday Evening") was no longer a problem for me. I even hit a high C in warm-ups a few times! I can now cross that dream off my list -- woo-hoo! Thanks Candice!
Then came two weeks where I didn't have any rehearsals, because the rest of the cast was working on "The Telephone Hour" or "The Shriners' Dance" or "Kids" -- numbers I wasn't in. It's hard to be excited when you aren't involved.
My next scheduled rehearsals had choreographer Stephanie teaching me and the other teens/twenty-somethings-pretending-to-be-teens the choreography for "Lot of Livin'" and "One Boy". I felt like since I was a lead and in the front I had to be perfect right away, but I wasn't. I decided to put my pride and worries about being a lousy dancer aside, and instead of being frustrated I should just work harder. Thanks to Stephanie, dance captain Sarah/Nancy Rei, and Karl for running "Lot of Livin'" with me until I felt I had it right! The choreography was really cool, and ended up one of my favorite moments in the show.
After that point, I had at least 4 rehearsals a week... until I went out of town. My parents and I visited my brother Aaron in Washington D.C. over Memorial Day weekend and it was awesome! I'd been to D.C. once before, and really loved it; my feelings haven't changed. However, I got sick the second day there, and even now am not quite myself again. Ah well, it was a great trip.
I returned home and jumped back into the four rehearsals a week thing. I missed blocking most of the first act and all of the second, but with the help of director Steph and my co-stars I was able to catch up pretty fast.
Then June hit -- and rehearsals came every day! We started running the show with all of the blocking, singing, dancing, costumes, and lines more or less memorized. We didn't have the set until the Saturday before we opened, but even then we didn't hit too many snags.
That last week, I started to feel a little complacent. I felt like opening wouldn't be a big deal -- just like a rehearsal except there would be people watching. I was kind of sad that I wasn't more excited. Yeah, that problem was solved during the dress rehearsal! Some people in the cast had invited friends and family members, and they laughed at all the right places and even some we didn't expect, and it was so fun!
Opening night was electric, and it continued through Saturday's performance. I love to perform! There's just something about being in control of what I do (not necessarily anything else that may happen but oh well), and hearing the music, and dancing, and hearing laughter and applause, and just getting to be a spazz but not a freak 'cause it's within the confines of the show... it's hard to describe. I just love it!
Monday's performance was more than a little hectic, what with the videotaping, and Austin/Hugo, Mandee/Ursula, and Sarah/Nancy Rei all being sick. We made it through, though, and my cousins, Mom, and friends there all said the show was great. Isn't it wonderful that if the audience doesn't know that we're goofing up, as long as we keep smiling and doing our best they don't notice? They love the play for what it is, as they should. It may not have been our best performance, but it was still enjoyable. That's all we can ask for, and I am so glad they could come that night!
We had Tuesday off, and I ended up hanging out with Birdie cast members anyway. At Kate's insistence, Brandon escorted me to Midvale Art's Council's production of Honk! and we sat with Amy and Jason W, director Steph, and friend Kari Ann. Good times! The show was entertaining and creative, and the best parts were my friend Ricky as the villainous french cat, and the show-stopping number "Warts and All" where a chorus of frogs reassure Ugly that one day someone will love him for who he is. Good times.
The show on Wednesday went well, but what with all the performing, going out afterwards, and working during the day, I was starting to feel exhausted. By Thursday, I was looking forward to closing. I'd miss the show and especially the people, but I'd been in rehearsals or performing since I auditioned for Midvale's Little Women the first week of January and I need a break! The folks already cast in other shows and going straight into rehearsals again are in my prayers.
My fear of being too tired to perform that night proved to be unfounded, as just driving to the SLCC made me feel totally jazzed! (It didn't hurt that Peter Brienholt's "Birken Street" came up on my iPod shuffle. I love that song.) I had my make-up done early and was ready for mic check when I saw Kate and Brandon performing "Rosie" on the stage. I watched for a minute, curious as to why director Steph was videotaping, and then decided to go work on my uncooperative hair. I had curled exactly one section when the song ended and the entire cast ran onto the stage, freaking out. I thought "What the heck? It's a good song but..." and then everything clicked into place and I ran onstage to see Kate and Brandon standing on the platform making out and everyone else applauding! He had proposed and I'd totally missed it (but Kate did not miss it even though she was completely surprised, which is way more important than my selfishly wanting to witness it). It was a perfect moment. I am thrilled that I've been able to watch their courtship these last few months and get to know them both better during this show. They are darling separately, and even cuter together. I am so excited for them!
Of course, that put me over the edge, and I really did cry. I felt guilty missing the vocal warm-up, but joined the cast again when I'd pulled myself together.
The show was fantastic. We had a large and appreciative audience, and every scene I went out and thought "Wow. I am so lucky to get to sing this song, or perform with so-and-so, or do this dance one last time." Loved it. I am so glad we had 5 whole performances! I had a ton of fun; it was a great final show.
After, I chatted with the friends who had come to see me, and then had to pack up ALL of the stuff I'd brought for the show: all the costumes, the mirror, the curling iron, the make-up, the teddy bear, the blanket, the multiple pairs of shoes, and I don't know what else. (I had to return the purple dress -- sadness!) When I had all my odds and ends gathered, I was greatful I hadn't had to lug it around every night!
There were multiple changes of plan for the post-show cast gathering, but we all managed to reach the Denny's in Midvale about midnight. As stated before, I was exhausted, so I only stayed long enough for some photos, chatter, and hot chocolate. I wish I hadn't been so tired; I would have liked to stay, but I’d asked enough of my poor physical self and needed to give it a rest.
So, it's over! Well, not entirely -- we still have the cast party. I'm glad that we decided to postpone the party for a few weeks. That way, we'll be really, REALLY excited to see each other because we didn't see everyone yesterday! It's good to miss people I love because I appreciate them so much more.
Thank you everyone for making Bye Bye Birdie the wonderful experience it was! I'll see you soon!
A terrific cast
My gorgeous onstage family, the MacAfees: me, Mother (Emily), Randolph (Jimmy), and Daddy (Jason). Emily thinks she's the odd man out with her dark hair, but I think we all look quite nice together...
Me and my teenage girl posse singing to my "One Boy" Hugo (Austin)
Hugo picks the worst possible moment to be jealous: I am so glad we did this section in slow motion! Though knowing that everyone would keep going slowly until I said my line stressed me out a bit... and made me feel powerful...
Never fear, we used fake cigarettes. When I blew into one end, smoke came out of the other. Thanks Candice for finding them for me!
Emily, me, and Kate: peas in a pod
At Kate's advice, I auditioned for the play in March, a little dubious that the pro team would actually consider me for Kim. After all, I'm 29 years old... nearly twice as old as the character. To my surprise and delight, I got the part anyway, and even better, Kate earned her dream role as Rose Alvarez, which meant that we finally got to do a show together!
Music rehearsals came first, which make me nervous especially when I have solos, which I did this time. Fortunately, our fearless music director, Candice, is patient and talented and knew what she wanted. I don't sing high soprano very often -- I pretend I prefer to sing Alto, but most of the time I'm just worried I won't hit the required high notes -- so I was always worried Candice and Steph would trade looks when I missed the A flat in "One Boy" like "why did we cast her again?" Fortunately, if they did I didn't see it, and by the time we actually opened that note (and the B flat in "Hymn for a Sunday Evening") was no longer a problem for me. I even hit a high C in warm-ups a few times! I can now cross that dream off my list -- woo-hoo! Thanks Candice!
Then came two weeks where I didn't have any rehearsals, because the rest of the cast was working on "The Telephone Hour" or "The Shriners' Dance" or "Kids" -- numbers I wasn't in. It's hard to be excited when you aren't involved.
My next scheduled rehearsals had choreographer Stephanie teaching me and the other teens/twenty-somethings-pretending-to-be-teens the choreography for "Lot of Livin'" and "One Boy". I felt like since I was a lead and in the front I had to be perfect right away, but I wasn't. I decided to put my pride and worries about being a lousy dancer aside, and instead of being frustrated I should just work harder. Thanks to Stephanie, dance captain Sarah/Nancy Rei, and Karl for running "Lot of Livin'" with me until I felt I had it right! The choreography was really cool, and ended up one of my favorite moments in the show.
After that point, I had at least 4 rehearsals a week... until I went out of town. My parents and I visited my brother Aaron in Washington D.C. over Memorial Day weekend and it was awesome! I'd been to D.C. once before, and really loved it; my feelings haven't changed. However, I got sick the second day there, and even now am not quite myself again. Ah well, it was a great trip.
I returned home and jumped back into the four rehearsals a week thing. I missed blocking most of the first act and all of the second, but with the help of director Steph and my co-stars I was able to catch up pretty fast.
Then June hit -- and rehearsals came every day! We started running the show with all of the blocking, singing, dancing, costumes, and lines more or less memorized. We didn't have the set until the Saturday before we opened, but even then we didn't hit too many snags.
That last week, I started to feel a little complacent. I felt like opening wouldn't be a big deal -- just like a rehearsal except there would be people watching. I was kind of sad that I wasn't more excited. Yeah, that problem was solved during the dress rehearsal! Some people in the cast had invited friends and family members, and they laughed at all the right places and even some we didn't expect, and it was so fun!
Opening night was electric, and it continued through Saturday's performance. I love to perform! There's just something about being in control of what I do (not necessarily anything else that may happen but oh well), and hearing the music, and dancing, and hearing laughter and applause, and just getting to be a spazz but not a freak 'cause it's within the confines of the show... it's hard to describe. I just love it!
Monday's performance was more than a little hectic, what with the videotaping, and Austin/Hugo, Mandee/Ursula, and Sarah/Nancy Rei all being sick. We made it through, though, and my cousins, Mom, and friends there all said the show was great. Isn't it wonderful that if the audience doesn't know that we're goofing up, as long as we keep smiling and doing our best they don't notice? They love the play for what it is, as they should. It may not have been our best performance, but it was still enjoyable. That's all we can ask for, and I am so glad they could come that night!
We had Tuesday off, and I ended up hanging out with Birdie cast members anyway. At Kate's insistence, Brandon escorted me to Midvale Art's Council's production of Honk! and we sat with Amy and Jason W, director Steph, and friend Kari Ann. Good times! The show was entertaining and creative, and the best parts were my friend Ricky as the villainous french cat, and the show-stopping number "Warts and All" where a chorus of frogs reassure Ugly that one day someone will love him for who he is. Good times.
The show on Wednesday went well, but what with all the performing, going out afterwards, and working during the day, I was starting to feel exhausted. By Thursday, I was looking forward to closing. I'd miss the show and especially the people, but I'd been in rehearsals or performing since I auditioned for Midvale's Little Women the first week of January and I need a break! The folks already cast in other shows and going straight into rehearsals again are in my prayers.
My fear of being too tired to perform that night proved to be unfounded, as just driving to the SLCC made me feel totally jazzed! (It didn't hurt that Peter Brienholt's "Birken Street" came up on my iPod shuffle. I love that song.) I had my make-up done early and was ready for mic check when I saw Kate and Brandon performing "Rosie" on the stage. I watched for a minute, curious as to why director Steph was videotaping, and then decided to go work on my uncooperative hair. I had curled exactly one section when the song ended and the entire cast ran onto the stage, freaking out. I thought "What the heck? It's a good song but..." and then everything clicked into place and I ran onstage to see Kate and Brandon standing on the platform making out and everyone else applauding! He had proposed and I'd totally missed it (but Kate did not miss it even though she was completely surprised, which is way more important than my selfishly wanting to witness it). It was a perfect moment. I am thrilled that I've been able to watch their courtship these last few months and get to know them both better during this show. They are darling separately, and even cuter together. I am so excited for them!
Of course, that put me over the edge, and I really did cry. I felt guilty missing the vocal warm-up, but joined the cast again when I'd pulled myself together.
The show was fantastic. We had a large and appreciative audience, and every scene I went out and thought "Wow. I am so lucky to get to sing this song, or perform with so-and-so, or do this dance one last time." Loved it. I am so glad we had 5 whole performances! I had a ton of fun; it was a great final show.
After, I chatted with the friends who had come to see me, and then had to pack up ALL of the stuff I'd brought for the show: all the costumes, the mirror, the curling iron, the make-up, the teddy bear, the blanket, the multiple pairs of shoes, and I don't know what else. (I had to return the purple dress -- sadness!) When I had all my odds and ends gathered, I was greatful I hadn't had to lug it around every night!
There were multiple changes of plan for the post-show cast gathering, but we all managed to reach the Denny's in Midvale about midnight. As stated before, I was exhausted, so I only stayed long enough for some photos, chatter, and hot chocolate. I wish I hadn't been so tired; I would have liked to stay, but I’d asked enough of my poor physical self and needed to give it a rest.
So, it's over! Well, not entirely -- we still have the cast party. I'm glad that we decided to postpone the party for a few weeks. That way, we'll be really, REALLY excited to see each other because we didn't see everyone yesterday! It's good to miss people I love because I appreciate them so much more.
Thank you everyone for making Bye Bye Birdie the wonderful experience it was! I'll see you soon!
A terrific cast
My gorgeous onstage family, the MacAfees: me, Mother (Emily), Randolph (Jimmy), and Daddy (Jason). Emily thinks she's the odd man out with her dark hair, but I think we all look quite nice together...
Me and my teenage girl posse singing to my "One Boy" Hugo (Austin)
Hugo picks the worst possible moment to be jealous: I am so glad we did this section in slow motion! Though knowing that everyone would keep going slowly until I said my line stressed me out a bit... and made me feel powerful...
Never fear, we used fake cigarettes. When I blew into one end, smoke came out of the other. Thanks Candice for finding them for me!
Emily, me, and Kate: peas in a pod
Friday, June 27
Worst Sneaker Ever
I am a little worried that I may have hurt people's feelings by trying to sneak out of Denny's last night without saying good-bye to everyone. I didn't want to make a big deal about leaving, because I was afraid a bunch of people would jump up to hug me and say good-bye and stuff, and it would take 20 minutes for me to get out of there. I chose not to say good-bye to anybody, because I'd feel like I needed to say good-bye to everybody individually. Plus, I had already had one big crying storm that night, what with the big engagement, closing the show, and a shortage of sleep, and I didn't want to start crying again in the restaurant! (Thanks again, Tiffanie, for reapplying my make-up before the show...)
So, I really, really hope the entire cast makes it to the party, because I really do want a proper good-bye!
Or better yet, just continue friendships I intend to keep for the rest of my life. I have really enjoyed the cast as a whole, and all of the individuals involved. I feel incredibly blessed that I've gotten to make so many good friends.
(I promise to post more on the closing of Birdie soon.)
So, I really, really hope the entire cast makes it to the party, because I really do want a proper good-bye!
Or better yet, just continue friendships I intend to keep for the rest of my life. I have really enjoyed the cast as a whole, and all of the individuals involved. I feel incredibly blessed that I've gotten to make so many good friends.
(I promise to post more on the closing of Birdie soon.)
Wednesday, June 25
"Birdie" Backstage
Anyone who has done anything involving a group of people performing for another group of people, such as a play, dance recital, or sport, knows that sometimes the drama going on behind-the-scenes is just as fun as that going on in front of the crowd. There are millions of little things that go into making a show what it is, and consequently millions of opportunities for craziness.
For awhile now, I've considered bringing a video camera to rehearsals and performances and to record some of the wacky and sometimes stressful goings-on. Well, I don't own a video camera (although my digital camera takes limited amounts of decent video recordings), but I've been making an effort during this show to write in my journal random things I don't necessarily want to forget. Such as:
"June 3, 2008: The scene where Conrad (Karl Rosengren) tries to kiss me is tricky, because I do ALL the talking, and Karl's part is all visual... While the rest of the cast ran some other scenes, Karl and I set up away from the group, worked on the scene, and then rehearsed it about a bajillion times. Karl's wife, Susan, took some photos of us that she jokes she's going to blackmail Karl with. Ah well, it's not the first time I've been the "other woman" in these theatre relationships..."
"June 11, 2008: Music director Candice mentioned during notes the last two nights that I sound out-of-breath in my first song 'How Lovely to Be a Woman'... she suggested I try practicing while walking on the treadmill or something, which I will try as soon as I have a few minutes..."
"June 18, 2008: After the second run-through, I decided to take up the pro team's request to help out with cleaning and painting props (I've never done that in a show; I always hope someone else will go!)... Everything was dusty and cobwebby and gross... Laren asked the firemen if we could use their hose to clean everything off, and I'm glad they said "yes" because it saved us a lot of time! I helped Karl and Maida paint two benches yellow, and a table green with Amy H..."
"June 22, 2008: Kate, Emily and I created a space just for ourselves. The backstage area is just one big, long room that feels more than a little like a bomb shelter, and with 60 and more members of the cast, it can feel more than a little claustrophobic. To give us some privacy, Kate and Laren create a "room" for Emily, Kate and me by putting up a screen, covered shelf, and our costume rack up as three walls. Consequently, we have a place to make our many costume changes away from wandering eyes, and we have a place to sit if we need some quiet..."
"June 22, 2008: I realized this weekend that unless I interact with someone onstage directly, I really have no idea what anyone else is doing. I'm pretty involved with my own character's story... This is why I'm glad I got to watch while Autumn rehearsed as Kim: I got to watch the show!... Everyone has grown so much since March when we all auditioned. We've become a family, and it's been great to see how committed to each scene that each actor is (wow, that's a lousy sentence). Everyone gives so much energy and personality and thought into every minute. It's easy to see they are having fun, and that makes it even more fun to watch... That makes me want to work even harder -- I don't want to let them down!"
"June 22, 2008: The big stressor during the show last night was with our darling Austin... who plays my steady, Hugo Peabody. He has appendicitis and is going in for surgery next Friday, but last night he had a flare up and was in so much pain we worried he couldn't perform... Fortunately, Austin was able to perform last night, and is going to the doctor today..."
Do you see how this could be a cool documentary? Waaaay cooler on video than my lame attempts to capture the experience in print. I am super excited when I get a video of the stage performance, but even that and the photos don't quite get the essense.
Ah well, enjoy it while I can. Two shows left!!
For awhile now, I've considered bringing a video camera to rehearsals and performances and to record some of the wacky and sometimes stressful goings-on. Well, I don't own a video camera (although my digital camera takes limited amounts of decent video recordings), but I've been making an effort during this show to write in my journal random things I don't necessarily want to forget. Such as:
"June 3, 2008: The scene where Conrad (Karl Rosengren) tries to kiss me is tricky, because I do ALL the talking, and Karl's part is all visual... While the rest of the cast ran some other scenes, Karl and I set up away from the group, worked on the scene, and then rehearsed it about a bajillion times. Karl's wife, Susan, took some photos of us that she jokes she's going to blackmail Karl with. Ah well, it's not the first time I've been the "other woman" in these theatre relationships..."
"June 11, 2008: Music director Candice mentioned during notes the last two nights that I sound out-of-breath in my first song 'How Lovely to Be a Woman'... she suggested I try practicing while walking on the treadmill or something, which I will try as soon as I have a few minutes..."
"June 18, 2008: After the second run-through, I decided to take up the pro team's request to help out with cleaning and painting props (I've never done that in a show; I always hope someone else will go!)... Everything was dusty and cobwebby and gross... Laren asked the firemen if we could use their hose to clean everything off, and I'm glad they said "yes" because it saved us a lot of time! I helped Karl and Maida paint two benches yellow, and a table green with Amy H..."
"June 22, 2008: Kate, Emily and I created a space just for ourselves. The backstage area is just one big, long room that feels more than a little like a bomb shelter, and with 60 and more members of the cast, it can feel more than a little claustrophobic. To give us some privacy, Kate and Laren create a "room" for Emily, Kate and me by putting up a screen, covered shelf, and our costume rack up as three walls. Consequently, we have a place to make our many costume changes away from wandering eyes, and we have a place to sit if we need some quiet..."
"June 22, 2008: I realized this weekend that unless I interact with someone onstage directly, I really have no idea what anyone else is doing. I'm pretty involved with my own character's story... This is why I'm glad I got to watch while Autumn rehearsed as Kim: I got to watch the show!... Everyone has grown so much since March when we all auditioned. We've become a family, and it's been great to see how committed to each scene that each actor is (wow, that's a lousy sentence). Everyone gives so much energy and personality and thought into every minute. It's easy to see they are having fun, and that makes it even more fun to watch... That makes me want to work even harder -- I don't want to let them down!"
"June 22, 2008: The big stressor during the show last night was with our darling Austin... who plays my steady, Hugo Peabody. He has appendicitis and is going in for surgery next Friday, but last night he had a flare up and was in so much pain we worried he couldn't perform... Fortunately, Austin was able to perform last night, and is going to the doctor today..."
Do you see how this could be a cool documentary? Waaaay cooler on video than my lame attempts to capture the experience in print. I am super excited when I get a video of the stage performance, but even that and the photos don't quite get the essense.
Ah well, enjoy it while I can. Two shows left!!
Tuesday, June 24
My First "Tag"!
Yay! My first tag! Have you ever noticed how the first time you do anything is always the most scary and exciting? (Well, maybe the second time is scarier in some circumstances, 'cause then you kind of know what to expect.) I'm just saying, I'm kinda stoked, but I may not be so much in the future.
Meanwhile, it's nice to have an extra excuse to blog... not that I'm asking that y'all tag me every chance you get or anything.
Need to list: 3 joys, 3 fears, 3 goals, 3 current obsessions/collections, 3 random surprising facts about yourself. Tag 5 people at the end of your post by leaving their names. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog!
3 Joys
1. Music. I love to sing more than anything else in the world. It's my favorite part about church and theatre, and the only thing I like about driving. Music can express how I feel so much better than words ever could.
2. Strong women. I am surrounded by them at home, church, work, and the theatre, and I am always amazed when women I admire think I'm something special, too.
3. Painting my toenails. It makes me feel so pretty!
3 Fears
1. Marrying the wrong guy for the right reasons
2. That my hair will go straight when I have my kids (lousy hormones)
3. Finding spiders and/or cockroaches in my bedroom - aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!
3 obsessions/ collections
1. "LOST". This television show is so confusing and yet addicting. I really enjoy that this show makes me think, and that there are so many characters to love! Just when I think I have something figured out, or I get comfortable - WHAM! They throw in some new idea out of nowhere. Brilliant! I own the first three seasons, and one of my goals this summer is to rewatch all of them.
2. "Dancing with the Stars". Sure, this last season was kind of boring, but gorgeous men who dance, and gorgeous women in frou-frou costumes are awesome! I have so many songs on my iPod now that I first heard on this show; I like music that makes me want to get up and dance. I took ballroom in 5th grade and am now kinda sad that I stopped, and that I was too afraid of the "social" aspect of social dance to take it at BYU.
(Incidently, I had a dream once that merged both "LOST" and "Dancing with the Stars". Kate and Edyta were great friends.)
3. The Harry Potter books and movies. I spent the bulk of my free time for three years hanging out online with people I met on harrypotter.com, and even wrote over 300 pages of my own fanfiction story (I never finished). Last year before the final book came out, my friend Mira threw a Harry Potter party which is pretty much the coolest thing I'd ever been to. I dressed up as Hermione and had a ball.
3 Goals
1. Buy my own condo or townhouse this year.
2. Get so proficient in yoga I can touch my toes without bending my knees.
3. Someday travel to Italy, Russia, Croatia, Greece, Ireland, and Scotland... not necessarily all on the same trip or in that order.
3 random/surprising facts about myself
1. Although I don't usually choose to play sports, I am actually a decent baseball player, and I like to watch baseball games. I was also pretty good at playing defense in basketball when we still played Young Women's churchball.
2. I was a painfully shy little girl. My first audition was for a part in the third grade Christmas program, and instead of asking for volunteers my teacher picked a bunch of girls to go into the hall and read lines. I was last and very relieved I wouldn't have to read in front of anybody but my beloved teacher. Just as I started, another teacher walked past with her entire class. I got the part. The rest is history.
3. If I had to give up either bread and chocolate, I would give up chocolate. This is not to say I don't like chocolate - I'm a huge fan. I just love bread and pasta more. I tried the South Beach diet once and failed miserably.
I am supposed to tag 5 people, but since this is all about 3's, I will follow Wendi's example and just tag 3 people.
1. Erica Michaelis (if that isn't your last name, Shutterbug, I'm going to be really embarrassed...)
2. Sarah Murray
3. Stephanie Maag
Meanwhile, it's nice to have an extra excuse to blog... not that I'm asking that y'all tag me every chance you get or anything.
Need to list: 3 joys, 3 fears, 3 goals, 3 current obsessions/collections, 3 random surprising facts about yourself. Tag 5 people at the end of your post by leaving their names. Let them know they are tagged by leaving a comment on their blog!
3 Joys
1. Music. I love to sing more than anything else in the world. It's my favorite part about church and theatre, and the only thing I like about driving. Music can express how I feel so much better than words ever could.
2. Strong women. I am surrounded by them at home, church, work, and the theatre, and I am always amazed when women I admire think I'm something special, too.
3. Painting my toenails. It makes me feel so pretty!
3 Fears
1. Marrying the wrong guy for the right reasons
2. That my hair will go straight when I have my kids (lousy hormones)
3. Finding spiders and/or cockroaches in my bedroom - aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!
3 obsessions/ collections
1. "LOST". This television show is so confusing and yet addicting. I really enjoy that this show makes me think, and that there are so many characters to love! Just when I think I have something figured out, or I get comfortable - WHAM! They throw in some new idea out of nowhere. Brilliant! I own the first three seasons, and one of my goals this summer is to rewatch all of them.
2. "Dancing with the Stars". Sure, this last season was kind of boring, but gorgeous men who dance, and gorgeous women in frou-frou costumes are awesome! I have so many songs on my iPod now that I first heard on this show; I like music that makes me want to get up and dance. I took ballroom in 5th grade and am now kinda sad that I stopped, and that I was too afraid of the "social" aspect of social dance to take it at BYU.
(Incidently, I had a dream once that merged both "LOST" and "Dancing with the Stars". Kate and Edyta were great friends.)
3. The Harry Potter books and movies. I spent the bulk of my free time for three years hanging out online with people I met on harrypotter.com, and even wrote over 300 pages of my own fanfiction story (I never finished). Last year before the final book came out, my friend Mira threw a Harry Potter party which is pretty much the coolest thing I'd ever been to. I dressed up as Hermione and had a ball.
3 Goals
1. Buy my own condo or townhouse this year.
2. Get so proficient in yoga I can touch my toes without bending my knees.
3. Someday travel to Italy, Russia, Croatia, Greece, Ireland, and Scotland... not necessarily all on the same trip or in that order.
3 random/surprising facts about myself
1. Although I don't usually choose to play sports, I am actually a decent baseball player, and I like to watch baseball games. I was also pretty good at playing defense in basketball when we still played Young Women's churchball.
2. I was a painfully shy little girl. My first audition was for a part in the third grade Christmas program, and instead of asking for volunteers my teacher picked a bunch of girls to go into the hall and read lines. I was last and very relieved I wouldn't have to read in front of anybody but my beloved teacher. Just as I started, another teacher walked past with her entire class. I got the part. The rest is history.
3. If I had to give up either bread and chocolate, I would give up chocolate. This is not to say I don't like chocolate - I'm a huge fan. I just love bread and pasta more. I tried the South Beach diet once and failed miserably.
I am supposed to tag 5 people, but since this is all about 3's, I will follow Wendi's example and just tag 3 people.
1. Erica Michaelis (if that isn't your last name, Shutterbug, I'm going to be really embarrassed...)
2. Sarah Murray
3. Stephanie Maag
Friday, June 20
Tonight's the Night!
Bye Bye Birdie opens tonight! I am so excited! Finally. Right up until we started the dress rehearsal last night it just didn't feel real. I thought, "Oh, no! Tomorrow isn't going to be special. I'm already taking the play for granted." And then I heard laughter (at the right places) from people who hadn't watched the show 80 times already, and heard my voice over the microphone, and saw the excitement from all of my cast and crew members and all of a sudden it hit me: we're opening!! Yay!
I even went out with a few of the cast members after the show last night. Kate, Brandon, Kristen, Laren, Austin and I went to Village Inn and chattered away and laughed a lot. I sure do love this cast. Kate and I are planning on going out after every show, and we hope that more and more people join us each night. Wring every great moment we can before it all ends.
Break a leg tonight, everyone! I wonder what will happen? I'm ready for some fun! Wah-hoo!
Wednesday, June 18
Medical Morning
I finally went to the doctor today about this cold/allergy/sinus infection/?? that I've had for the last three weeks or so. I reached the breaking point last night, the fourth night in a row where I had a headache so bad that unless I was performing (during which time all illnesses magically disappear -- have you ever noticed that phenomenon? It's so trippy) I had to lay down.
So, since my own doctor is always too booked to see me the same day, and I don't ever plan ahead didn't have an appointment for today already, I went to an Instacare. They put me in a room pretty quickly, and then I sat there for a good 20 minutes. I had brought my journal, so at least I had something to do, but they must only have one doctor, because the hallway sure was quiet! I kind of wish they had let me stay in the Waiting Room, because I was quite enjoying Steve Carell on Live With Regis and Kelly, and I kind of feel that people get forgotten if they aren't right in front of the personel...
The doctor came in and said "how are you today" which I never really know how to answer. Do I say "I feel lousy, duh." Or "I'm happy, but my body hates me?" I just feel stupid saying the requisite "Fine" because if I'm fine, what the heck am I doing there? So, I just kind of went into a description of how I'm feeling and how long it's been and the circumstances I'm laboring under. I always try to be as detailed as possible, because a friend told me once that the littlest thing can be really important even if they don't seem related. Like, if a child has headaches and nosebleeds together it could be a sign of leukemia, but if the child comes in and says she has a headache the doctor isn't allowed to ask "do you get nosebleeds?" for some reason even if they suspect leukemia, so they may end up treating the child for the wrong thing. So I pay attention to what's wrong and where and what days and all that jazz, and I don't care if I sound like a crazy person doing it.
For some reason, I never have the actual disease going around: flu, strep throat, or whatever. That sounds like a good thing, except if it's just some "virus" (translation: the doctor has no idea what I have), the doc can't give me any real medication. I was very afraid that was what the doctor was going to say today. I explained symptoms and she'd ask questions and at one point she said "you're not helping me" because it didn't sound like a sinus infection she could tell I was going to go nuts if there wasn't anything she could do to help.
In the end, she said "you're going to want to take a decongestant" and gave me a prescription for amoxicillin. I wasn't sure if I was supposed to take both at the same time, but before I could even ask she was outta there. Just while she was talking she stood up and walked out and was still yelling over her shoulder as she walked down the hall. I assumed that meant we were finished, but I didn't have all my questions answered! I felt pretty insignificant at that point. She's allowed to be busy, but at least take the time to say "Any questions? No? Good luck." Meanwhile, I did have a question "should I take the decongestant AND the amoxicillin?" that I never got to ask.
So, I went to Wal-Mart to get my prescription filled, and sent a text message to Wendi at work letting her know what I was doing and that I should be in the office in about an hour. I picked Wal-Mart because it's close to work and I've been there before. I keep telling myself it's not a ghetto, but it is. At least, the one near the office is. It's like a cave. The super-nice lady behind the Pharmacy counter told me I have pretty hair, and the prescription should be ready in about 10 minutes. Yeah, I've heard that story before. I waited about 20 minutes, and then walked back over to the counter. The lady saw me and kind of panicked, as if she hadn't put the order in yet, which she hadn't. I kept looking at the decongestants thinking "should I get some just in case?" but I worry a lot that I'll overdose, or take conflicting stuff together, so I decided not to.
Fourty-five minutes later I finally had my meds, stopped by Wendy's for a salad for lunch, and finally got into work. Sure enough, my co-workers informed me that I needed the decongestant along with the amoxicillin. Grrrr! I was right there!! Oh well, hopefully it won't be too detrimental to wait until after work... or after rehearsal... But I'm annoyed at the doctor who was too busy to talk to me even though there was a sign next to the door that told me not to leave until I had all my questions answered. I should have shouted my question down the hall. It's my fault. I'm always too worried I'm going to inconvenience someone. *sigh*
Hopefully it won't take the full 10 days to get better. I really want to get to enjoy these last few Birdie rehearsals and all of the performances!!
Okay, I'm done complaining. Better get some work done now.
So, since my own doctor is always too booked to see me the same day, and I don't ever plan ahead didn't have an appointment for today already, I went to an Instacare. They put me in a room pretty quickly, and then I sat there for a good 20 minutes. I had brought my journal, so at least I had something to do, but they must only have one doctor, because the hallway sure was quiet! I kind of wish they had let me stay in the Waiting Room, because I was quite enjoying Steve Carell on Live With Regis and Kelly, and I kind of feel that people get forgotten if they aren't right in front of the personel...
The doctor came in and said "how are you today" which I never really know how to answer. Do I say "I feel lousy, duh." Or "I'm happy, but my body hates me?" I just feel stupid saying the requisite "Fine" because if I'm fine, what the heck am I doing there? So, I just kind of went into a description of how I'm feeling and how long it's been and the circumstances I'm laboring under. I always try to be as detailed as possible, because a friend told me once that the littlest thing can be really important even if they don't seem related. Like, if a child has headaches and nosebleeds together it could be a sign of leukemia, but if the child comes in and says she has a headache the doctor isn't allowed to ask "do you get nosebleeds?" for some reason even if they suspect leukemia, so they may end up treating the child for the wrong thing. So I pay attention to what's wrong and where and what days and all that jazz, and I don't care if I sound like a crazy person doing it.
For some reason, I never have the actual disease going around: flu, strep throat, or whatever. That sounds like a good thing, except if it's just some "virus" (translation: the doctor has no idea what I have), the doc can't give me any real medication. I was very afraid that was what the doctor was going to say today. I explained symptoms and she'd ask questions and at one point she said "you're not helping me" because it didn't sound like a sinus infection she could tell I was going to go nuts if there wasn't anything she could do to help.
In the end, she said "you're going to want to take a decongestant" and gave me a prescription for amoxicillin. I wasn't sure if I was supposed to take both at the same time, but before I could even ask she was outta there. Just while she was talking she stood up and walked out and was still yelling over her shoulder as she walked down the hall. I assumed that meant we were finished, but I didn't have all my questions answered! I felt pretty insignificant at that point. She's allowed to be busy, but at least take the time to say "Any questions? No? Good luck." Meanwhile, I did have a question "should I take the decongestant AND the amoxicillin?" that I never got to ask.
So, I went to Wal-Mart to get my prescription filled, and sent a text message to Wendi at work letting her know what I was doing and that I should be in the office in about an hour. I picked Wal-Mart because it's close to work and I've been there before. I keep telling myself it's not a ghetto, but it is. At least, the one near the office is. It's like a cave. The super-nice lady behind the Pharmacy counter told me I have pretty hair, and the prescription should be ready in about 10 minutes. Yeah, I've heard that story before. I waited about 20 minutes, and then walked back over to the counter. The lady saw me and kind of panicked, as if she hadn't put the order in yet, which she hadn't. I kept looking at the decongestants thinking "should I get some just in case?" but I worry a lot that I'll overdose, or take conflicting stuff together, so I decided not to.
Fourty-five minutes later I finally had my meds, stopped by Wendy's for a salad for lunch, and finally got into work. Sure enough, my co-workers informed me that I needed the decongestant along with the amoxicillin. Grrrr! I was right there!! Oh well, hopefully it won't be too detrimental to wait until after work... or after rehearsal... But I'm annoyed at the doctor who was too busy to talk to me even though there was a sign next to the door that told me not to leave until I had all my questions answered. I should have shouted my question down the hall. It's my fault. I'm always too worried I'm going to inconvenience someone. *sigh*
Hopefully it won't take the full 10 days to get better. I really want to get to enjoy these last few Birdie rehearsals and all of the performances!!
Okay, I'm done complaining. Better get some work done now.
Tuesday, June 17
Ellen and Gladys
Just posting this because I laugh so hard I cry every time I watch it. The lady on the phone is funny, but Ellen's reactions are classic!
Enjoy!
I like to think Ellen Degeneres I would be friends if we ever met.
Enjoy!
I like to think Ellen Degeneres I would be friends if we ever met.
Sunday, June 15
The Big 0 - 4
My nephew turned 4 years old on Saturday. He's been planning his party for about 6 months now, and both his and my parents informed me that it was a hit!
Like his dad, Aunt Megan, and uncles, the G-unit loves Star Wars. We have four light sabers (one in each color) and used to have regular battles while Uncle Dave played "The Imperial March" on the piano.
Last Thanksgiving, our entire family spent three great days at Disneyland, and while there G and his parents watched the "Jedi Training" show. From then on, G knew he wanted a Star Wars birthday party!
So, his mom made robes for my nephew, four friends, and G's dad. They gave all of the kids their own light sabers, and Jedi Master Adam taught them some fight choreography. Then, Darth Vader appeared. Even though Darth Vader is G's favorite character, G was a little nervous about meeting this infamous villian in person. But as soon as he realized it was just Unckie Pete in a costume, he was eager to do battle!
Youngling Padawans G-unit (on the left) and friends
G's turn to duel with evil
G and Darth Vader
"Do as I'm doing." Do we really want these kids following in Vader's footsteps?
The student has become the Master!
There was a Darth Vader pinata, a Star Wars cake, and plenty of presents. A perfect party.
An action shot
A galactic cake
So, now I'm thinking I should consider having a birthday party of my own this year. After all, I will be 30! I haven't had a birthday party that wasn't just with my family in years. Would my friends be willing to dress up in Jane Austen garb? Could I find someone to teach us the dances, and someone to play the pianoforte? What the heck does a "treacle tart" taste like? Would Col. Brandon show up to sweep me off my feet?
Man, that sounds like a lot of work. Maybe instead I'll just read Sense and Sensibility again... or Austenland... or maybe I'll read Harry Potter. I'm starting to miss him again.
Happy Birthday, G-unit! Sorry I wasn't there, but I'm glad you had such a good time!
Like his dad, Aunt Megan, and uncles, the G-unit loves Star Wars. We have four light sabers (one in each color) and used to have regular battles while Uncle Dave played "The Imperial March" on the piano.
Last Thanksgiving, our entire family spent three great days at Disneyland, and while there G and his parents watched the "Jedi Training" show. From then on, G knew he wanted a Star Wars birthday party!
So, his mom made robes for my nephew, four friends, and G's dad. They gave all of the kids their own light sabers, and Jedi Master Adam taught them some fight choreography. Then, Darth Vader appeared. Even though Darth Vader is G's favorite character, G was a little nervous about meeting this infamous villian in person. But as soon as he realized it was just Unckie Pete in a costume, he was eager to do battle!
Youngling Padawans G-unit (on the left) and friends
G's turn to duel with evil
G and Darth Vader
"Do as I'm doing." Do we really want these kids following in Vader's footsteps?
The student has become the Master!
There was a Darth Vader pinata, a Star Wars cake, and plenty of presents. A perfect party.
An action shot
A galactic cake
So, now I'm thinking I should consider having a birthday party of my own this year. After all, I will be 30! I haven't had a birthday party that wasn't just with my family in years. Would my friends be willing to dress up in Jane Austen garb? Could I find someone to teach us the dances, and someone to play the pianoforte? What the heck does a "treacle tart" taste like? Would Col. Brandon show up to sweep me off my feet?
Man, that sounds like a lot of work. Maybe instead I'll just read Sense and Sensibility again... or Austenland... or maybe I'll read Harry Potter. I'm starting to miss him again.
Happy Birthday, G-unit! Sorry I wasn't there, but I'm glad you had such a good time!
Friday, June 13
Heater Junkie
I think I'm addicted to the heater under my desk.
I'm one of those people who would prefer not to be colder than necessary. You might think that's odd, since I love Utah's cold, snowy winters, but the point is that then I can plan to wear a heavy coat, gloves, scarf, hat (well, probably not a hat, since "hat hair" looks particularly bad combined with the crazy curly hair), earmuffs, or whatever. In fact, I normally wear more than I probably need to. I'm always flabbergasted by people who walk around in hoodies in 45 degree weather. Granted, I don't think I wore long pants to school more than 5 times one year in Junior High, something I've always been proud of, but that was a loooooooong time ago.
Much as I love the snow, I am always excited when spring and summer come and I get to wear skirts and capris -- it's like re-discovering a whole new wardrobe! Yes, we've had an obnoxiously cold season so far, but I'm confident it's bound to warm up. At least, I hope so. I tend to get sick every time the weather changes.
During my mission, I had the experience of tracting in weathers ranging from wet snow to a blasting 112 degree sun (yep, there are places in Arizona that get snow, such as the south rim of the Grand Canyon. I served there in the winter, and north Phoenix in the summer. I assume the Lord knew what He was doing). I learned that I would much, much rather tract in the heat than snow. Slogging through the slush being soaked through and frozen and then having people say "No thanks, but keep warm!" and close the door in our faces was miserable. Not to mention ironic; the best way for us to warm up would have been to let us inside to thaw! Talk about adding insult to injury.
Meanwhile, back to the heater: It's a little depressing to have to wear sweaters and socks during the summer, when it is (well, sometimes) so lovely outside, but the temperature in the office is consistently cold. And, of course, I have an air vent just over my head with always seems to be blowing.
During this past winter, I got so cold I wore gloves a couple of days to type. Beth, my manager, noticed the gloves and offered to loan me her little personal heater... bliss!! I don't know why heating my feet helps my hands, but somehow it does. Beth insisted that she didn't need it, and though I was happy to give it to Wendi when she needed it, anytime I could use that heater, I did.
Then, at Christmas Beth gave me a heater of my very own! I laughed when I opened it -- Beth is so cool.
So, turning on my heater is now pretty much part of my routine when I come in the office in the morning, even if I'm not particularly cold. It just feels good to have the heat blasting onto me. I also like the calming little whirring sound it makes. The only drawback is that the heat totally kills my change-color-in-the-sun nail polish, which the heater in my bedroom does not for some reason. But, I'm over it. The sun color is usually more interesting anyway.
Huh. I just wrote a huge post about the weather. I would have been so good at conversation in the 19th Century!
I'm one of those people who would prefer not to be colder than necessary. You might think that's odd, since I love Utah's cold, snowy winters, but the point is that then I can plan to wear a heavy coat, gloves, scarf, hat (well, probably not a hat, since "hat hair" looks particularly bad combined with the crazy curly hair), earmuffs, or whatever. In fact, I normally wear more than I probably need to. I'm always flabbergasted by people who walk around in hoodies in 45 degree weather. Granted, I don't think I wore long pants to school more than 5 times one year in Junior High, something I've always been proud of, but that was a loooooooong time ago.
Much as I love the snow, I am always excited when spring and summer come and I get to wear skirts and capris -- it's like re-discovering a whole new wardrobe! Yes, we've had an obnoxiously cold season so far, but I'm confident it's bound to warm up. At least, I hope so. I tend to get sick every time the weather changes.
During my mission, I had the experience of tracting in weathers ranging from wet snow to a blasting 112 degree sun (yep, there are places in Arizona that get snow, such as the south rim of the Grand Canyon. I served there in the winter, and north Phoenix in the summer. I assume the Lord knew what He was doing). I learned that I would much, much rather tract in the heat than snow. Slogging through the slush being soaked through and frozen and then having people say "No thanks, but keep warm!" and close the door in our faces was miserable. Not to mention ironic; the best way for us to warm up would have been to let us inside to thaw! Talk about adding insult to injury.
Meanwhile, back to the heater: It's a little depressing to have to wear sweaters and socks during the summer, when it is (well, sometimes) so lovely outside, but the temperature in the office is consistently cold. And, of course, I have an air vent just over my head with always seems to be blowing.
During this past winter, I got so cold I wore gloves a couple of days to type. Beth, my manager, noticed the gloves and offered to loan me her little personal heater... bliss!! I don't know why heating my feet helps my hands, but somehow it does. Beth insisted that she didn't need it, and though I was happy to give it to Wendi when she needed it, anytime I could use that heater, I did.
Then, at Christmas Beth gave me a heater of my very own! I laughed when I opened it -- Beth is so cool.
So, turning on my heater is now pretty much part of my routine when I come in the office in the morning, even if I'm not particularly cold. It just feels good to have the heat blasting onto me. I also like the calming little whirring sound it makes. The only drawback is that the heat totally kills my change-color-in-the-sun nail polish, which the heater in my bedroom does not for some reason. But, I'm over it. The sun color is usually more interesting anyway.
Huh. I just wrote a huge post about the weather. I would have been so good at conversation in the 19th Century!
Thursday, June 12
Wide Awake
Well, it's nearing 1 a.m. and I'm still awake. Unfortunately, I've run out of cold medicine, which is what I'm crediting with the blissful, restful, eight hours of sleep I've had each of the last 4 nights. Whether it's the lack of sedative, the diet coke I finished 3 hours ago that may or may not have contained caffeine, the high I'm still riding from tonight's rehearsal, or my forgetting that writing in my journal before bed tends to jumpstart my brain, I couldn't say. It's probably a combination of all these things.
So, what should I do with my free time? There are so many options:
1. Work. Heaven knows I have plenty to do.
2. Keep writing in my journal. I sure am behind.
3. Continue some edits on a story I wrote seven years ago and never finished, but lately have wanted to.
4. Organize my bank statements and other financial documents. That pile just keeps getting bigger. I check them, but haven't put them in the file folders I bought a few months ago yet.
5. Practice "How Lovely to be a Woman" while walking on the treadmill.
6. Watch the season 4 finale of Lost again.
7. Continue reading "John Adams" by David McCullough. It's been sadly neglected the last month or so.
8. Work on my theatre scrapbook. When Birdie closes I'll be three shows behind!
9. Scan my theatre scrapbook onto my computer for the third time (don't ask).
10. Go back to bed and focus on breathing and slowing my heart rate so I can fall asleep.
Geez, that's a lot of stuff. Some of those things have been on my to-do list for months. Just thinking about all those projects makes me tired.
Hey!
Nope. Brain still too active.
Sigh... see you tomorrow.
Or later today.
Whatever ;o)
So, what should I do with my free time? There are so many options:
1. Work. Heaven knows I have plenty to do.
2. Keep writing in my journal. I sure am behind.
3. Continue some edits on a story I wrote seven years ago and never finished, but lately have wanted to.
4. Organize my bank statements and other financial documents. That pile just keeps getting bigger. I check them, but haven't put them in the file folders I bought a few months ago yet.
5. Practice "How Lovely to be a Woman" while walking on the treadmill.
6. Watch the season 4 finale of Lost again.
7. Continue reading "John Adams" by David McCullough. It's been sadly neglected the last month or so.
8. Work on my theatre scrapbook. When Birdie closes I'll be three shows behind!
9. Scan my theatre scrapbook onto my computer for the third time (don't ask).
10. Go back to bed and focus on breathing and slowing my heart rate so I can fall asleep.
Geez, that's a lot of stuff. Some of those things have been on my to-do list for months. Just thinking about all those projects makes me tired.
Hey!
Nope. Brain still too active.
Sigh... see you tomorrow.
Or later today.
Whatever ;o)
Tuesday, June 10
Giddy about "Birdie"
Hopefully, anyone who reads this post is either IN Bye Bye Birdie, or received my email inviting you to come see it (if you are not in the show, and did not receive an email, I apologize. Please leave a message here or call me and I'll shoot that to you ASAP!) I played Penelope Ann in Birdie nine years ago at the Grand and had a blast, but I can't imagine I had as much fun then as I am this time around. I feel so blessed to be a part of it!
I would now like to list 3 reasons why I am loving this experience:
1. The Pro Team: Steph, Candice, and Stephanie. I respect these women so much! Their goal (as it seems to me) is to produce a quality show and facilitate a positive
experience. They are succeeding! They have fantastic artistic instincts, work well as a team, command respect and discipline without being harsh, and are not stingy with praise. They are my rock and my cheerleaders, and I am grateful I get to know them as friends too! Steph, Candice, and Stephanie have shown unfailing confidence in me, and the only way I can think to really thank them for this opportunity is to continue to grow, and give them nothing less than my best every time I rehearse and perform. (Oh, what the heck: THANK YOU LADIES!!)
2. Circle of friends: Was I ever thrilled when I saw the cast list, and realized that a bunch of my dear friends are playing the leads! As well they should be, since they are ridiculously talented. Kate, our Rosie, directed me in Brigadoon last year. We've been friends ever since, and I am really excited to get to finally do a show with her. I got to know Jason and Amy, our Mr. MacAfee and Mae "Mamma" Peterson, and their kids during Brigadoon as well, though I had met Jason before then. It's our third show together, and I am constantly amazed at how versatile he is. I could go on and on about pretty much every cast member, but because of time contraints, I'll
just say that we really have developed a community, and I hope that translates on stage. I could (and often do) talk with just about anyone in the cast and feel completely at ease. We have quite a few families involved, and I am surprised at how many people say this is their first play -- everyone is fantastic! They care about the show, and are working really hard.
(A few people to watch: the Mayor's wife in "Kids", Conrad in the Ice House scene, Harvey Johnson's parents in "Honestly Sincere", and little Kira during "American Boy" -- HILARIOUS!)
3. A dream role: How lucky am I to get to play a second dream role in a row? (The first was Amy in Midvale Arts Council's Little Women in March.) I still can't believe it sometimes -- I'm playing Kim! ME! Wah-hoo! I feel giddy every time I go to rehearsal! I love singing Kim's songs, finding new ways to
deliver the dialogue, building the character, the interaction with the other characters, the fact that most of my costumes are my own clothes, and getting to tell people "I'm playing Kim" and see them get even more excited to see the show. Practically every scene has a new challenge for me, and it's fun to stretch my creative muscles. My confidence in my abilities as an actress, singer, and dancer has grown tremendously these last two months. I cannot begin to say how grateful I am for that! Plus, I get to play a teenager the year I turn 30. How many people get to say that? Life's lovely when you're a woman like me!
We open in just over a week, and it will be bittersweet; bitter because it means the whole experience is almost over, but sweet because we'll get to perform before an audience who hopefully appreciates all of our efforts and enjoys the production! Meanwhile, I'll be giving my all, and loving every minute of it. Thanks everyone for being a part of this show, whether onstage, behind the scenes, or in the audience. I really couldn't do this without you!!
p.s. Thanks to Erica "Shutterbug" for snapping photos during rehearsals! Every Birdie photo on this site is available because of her.
I would now like to list 3 reasons why I am loving this experience:
1. The Pro Team: Steph, Candice, and Stephanie. I respect these women so much! Their goal (as it seems to me) is to produce a quality show and facilitate a positive
experience. They are succeeding! They have fantastic artistic instincts, work well as a team, command respect and discipline without being harsh, and are not stingy with praise. They are my rock and my cheerleaders, and I am grateful I get to know them as friends too! Steph, Candice, and Stephanie have shown unfailing confidence in me, and the only way I can think to really thank them for this opportunity is to continue to grow, and give them nothing less than my best every time I rehearse and perform. (Oh, what the heck: THANK YOU LADIES!!)2. Circle of friends: Was I ever thrilled when I saw the cast list, and realized that a bunch of my dear friends are playing the leads! As well they should be, since they are ridiculously talented. Kate, our Rosie, directed me in Brigadoon last year. We've been friends ever since, and I am really excited to get to finally do a show with her. I got to know Jason and Amy, our Mr. MacAfee and Mae "Mamma" Peterson, and their kids during Brigadoon as well, though I had met Jason before then. It's our third show together, and I am constantly amazed at how versatile he is. I could go on and on about pretty much every cast member, but because of time contraints, I'll
just say that we really have developed a community, and I hope that translates on stage. I could (and often do) talk with just about anyone in the cast and feel completely at ease. We have quite a few families involved, and I am surprised at how many people say this is their first play -- everyone is fantastic! They care about the show, and are working really hard. (A few people to watch: the Mayor's wife in "Kids", Conrad in the Ice House scene, Harvey Johnson's parents in "Honestly Sincere", and little Kira during "American Boy" -- HILARIOUS!)
3. A dream role: How lucky am I to get to play a second dream role in a row? (The first was Amy in Midvale Arts Council's Little Women in March.) I still can't believe it sometimes -- I'm playing Kim! ME! Wah-hoo! I feel giddy every time I go to rehearsal! I love singing Kim's songs, finding new ways to
deliver the dialogue, building the character, the interaction with the other characters, the fact that most of my costumes are my own clothes, and getting to tell people "I'm playing Kim" and see them get even more excited to see the show. Practically every scene has a new challenge for me, and it's fun to stretch my creative muscles. My confidence in my abilities as an actress, singer, and dancer has grown tremendously these last two months. I cannot begin to say how grateful I am for that! Plus, I get to play a teenager the year I turn 30. How many people get to say that? Life's lovely when you're a woman like me!We open in just over a week, and it will be bittersweet; bitter because it means the whole experience is almost over, but sweet because we'll get to perform before an audience who hopefully appreciates all of our efforts and enjoys the production! Meanwhile, I'll be giving my all, and loving every minute of it. Thanks everyone for being a part of this show, whether onstage, behind the scenes, or in the audience. I really couldn't do this without you!!
p.s. Thanks to Erica "Shutterbug" for snapping photos during rehearsals! Every Birdie photo on this site is available because of her.
Monday, June 9
Chinese Dragon Boat Festival
I work with quite a few Engineers from China -- some live in Utah, some in California, and some still in China. My boss sent an email to one of them last week about some scheduling stuff, and as part of his response he mentioned that today, Monday, June 9, is the Chinese Dragon Boat Festival.
Neither my boss or I had ever heard of it, so I looked it up on google:
"The Dragon Boat Festival is a lunar holiday, occurring on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month.
The Chinese Dragon Boat Festival is a significant holiday celebrated in China, and the one with the longest history. The Dragon Boat Festival commemorates the popular Chinese patriot, Qu Yuan (Chu Yuan) who in the 3rd century in protest of a corrupt government threw himself into the Mi Lo River in despair.
Upon hearing the news, local people frantically raced out in boats to save him, and to scare away any fish who might want to eat him pounded drums and threw rice into the river - but, sadly, they arrived too late. As legend has it, boat races and ceremonial sacrifices of rice were performed each year to symbolize the valiant attempts to rescue Qu Yuan. Today, rice dumplings or zongzi are eaten to symbolize the rice offerings on behalf of Qu Yuan.
The Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated by boat races in the shape of dragons. Competing teams row their boats forward to a drumbeat racing to reach the finish end first.
The boat races during the Dragon Boat Festival are traditional customs to attempts to rescue the patriotic poet Chu Yuan. Chinese citizens now throw bamboo leaves filled with cooked rice into the water. Therefore the fish could eat the rice rather than the hero poet. This later on turned into the custom of eating tzungtzu and rice dumplings.
The celebration is a time for protection from evil and disease for the rest of the year. It is done so by different practices such as hanging healthy herbs on the front door, drinking nutritious concoctions, and displaying portraits of evil's nemesis, Chung Kuei. If one manages to stand an egg on it's end at exactly 12:00 noon, the following year will be a lucky one."
I was a little disappointed to find out that they don't really do anything with dragons, but it still sounds like fun! I wish we had more holidays like this one here in the U.S. of A. For example, we could all celebrate the Boston tea party by dumping some water-friendly powder into the great Salt Lake! Of course, that may offend the British, so forget I said that. But hey, even though we're still a relatively new country, we have plenty of events to celebrate, and that's fun, too!
Meanwhile, maybe I should order Chinese for lunch, and go by Jamba Juice for a "nutritious concoction", or swing by Panda Express for dinner. Yum!
Happy Chinese Dragon Boat Festival day everybody!
Neither my boss or I had ever heard of it, so I looked it up on google:
"The Dragon Boat Festival is a lunar holiday, occurring on the fifth day of the fifth lunar month.
The Chinese Dragon Boat Festival is a significant holiday celebrated in China, and the one with the longest history. The Dragon Boat Festival commemorates the popular Chinese patriot, Qu Yuan (Chu Yuan) who in the 3rd century in protest of a corrupt government threw himself into the Mi Lo River in despair.
Upon hearing the news, local people frantically raced out in boats to save him, and to scare away any fish who might want to eat him pounded drums and threw rice into the river - but, sadly, they arrived too late. As legend has it, boat races and ceremonial sacrifices of rice were performed each year to symbolize the valiant attempts to rescue Qu Yuan. Today, rice dumplings or zongzi are eaten to symbolize the rice offerings on behalf of Qu Yuan.
The Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated by boat races in the shape of dragons. Competing teams row their boats forward to a drumbeat racing to reach the finish end first.
The boat races during the Dragon Boat Festival are traditional customs to attempts to rescue the patriotic poet Chu Yuan. Chinese citizens now throw bamboo leaves filled with cooked rice into the water. Therefore the fish could eat the rice rather than the hero poet. This later on turned into the custom of eating tzungtzu and rice dumplings.
The celebration is a time for protection from evil and disease for the rest of the year. It is done so by different practices such as hanging healthy herbs on the front door, drinking nutritious concoctions, and displaying portraits of evil's nemesis, Chung Kuei. If one manages to stand an egg on it's end at exactly 12:00 noon, the following year will be a lucky one."
I was a little disappointed to find out that they don't really do anything with dragons, but it still sounds like fun! I wish we had more holidays like this one here in the U.S. of A. For example, we could all celebrate the Boston tea party by dumping some water-friendly powder into the great Salt Lake! Of course, that may offend the British, so forget I said that. But hey, even though we're still a relatively new country, we have plenty of events to celebrate, and that's fun, too!
Meanwhile, maybe I should order Chinese for lunch, and go by Jamba Juice for a "nutritious concoction", or swing by Panda Express for dinner. Yum!
Happy Chinese Dragon Boat Festival day everybody!
Sunday, June 8
Friday, June 6
Cafe Rio
I ate dinner from Cafe Rio tonight. I guess that's not earth-shaking news; I eat there about once a week. I can't stop! The food is good, the experience is always a little hectic... it's become familiar territory.
Does anyone else think it's weird that the public is not allowed to take videos or photos on the premises? There's a notice painted on the doors about it. Just makes me wonder if they're afraid someone will steal the recipies, or if there's some kind of code violation, or if they just want to keep track of their copyright... rights.
Anyhoo, I arrived at about 6:15pm, which of course, on a Friday, is pretty much the busiest time a person can choose. Fortunately, there were only two switchbacks, and plenty of adorable kids under 2 years old to watch, including the little girl with her stylish mom standing in front of me. And I took the time to actually read some of the notices posted about. Did you know they don't use microwaves or refrigerators? Guess the food flies off the counters so quickly they don't need them.
I've long since gotten used to ordering there. At least, I know what the servers are going to ask me, and I know what I want, so I don't get flustered when they're yelling at me anymore. But, the poor elderly man behind me was struggling. He sounded like he was repeating the order that someone else had given him, "Cafe Rio salad with the house dressing to go, please," and couldn't understand or hear what the servers asked. Not sure if he'd been there before, but he didn't seem to have the system down at any rate. I hope they finally got it right in the end, but the poor man was so frustrated. I considered jumping in to help, but didn't want to insult the poor guy.
(As an aside, why is it that many elderly people get so annoyed when teenagers or other young folk are disrespectful, yet those same elderly people show no fear in being disrespectful to strangers or their loved ones? Shouldn't respect breed more respect? Just another one of those paradoxes.)
Meanwhile, I was distracted momentarily by a server who I am sure started off in English, but ended by saying something like "How are you beautiful?" in Spanish. (I don't speak much Spanish, but I do know that.) My head is stuffed up, and he was talking really fast, so I just looked at him blankly as I tried to process. He smiled and walked away before I could give him an odd look like "why are you flirting with me while you're working? Or do you just think I'm some silly blonde chick who can't speak Spanish?"
At long last, I received my order of a pork salad on a wheat tortilla, with shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, and cilantro-lime dressing and happily handed my card to the cashier.
FREE MEAL!!
I still get a kick out of hearing everyone shout that! Since it was free, I grabbed a diet coke, and took the meal to go.
Mmmm, Cafe Rio. Hooray for another successful trip!
And now I'll be full until dinnertime tomorrow :oD
Does anyone else think it's weird that the public is not allowed to take videos or photos on the premises? There's a notice painted on the doors about it. Just makes me wonder if they're afraid someone will steal the recipies, or if there's some kind of code violation, or if they just want to keep track of their copyright... rights.
Anyhoo, I arrived at about 6:15pm, which of course, on a Friday, is pretty much the busiest time a person can choose. Fortunately, there were only two switchbacks, and plenty of adorable kids under 2 years old to watch, including the little girl with her stylish mom standing in front of me. And I took the time to actually read some of the notices posted about. Did you know they don't use microwaves or refrigerators? Guess the food flies off the counters so quickly they don't need them.
I've long since gotten used to ordering there. At least, I know what the servers are going to ask me, and I know what I want, so I don't get flustered when they're yelling at me anymore. But, the poor elderly man behind me was struggling. He sounded like he was repeating the order that someone else had given him, "Cafe Rio salad with the house dressing to go, please," and couldn't understand or hear what the servers asked. Not sure if he'd been there before, but he didn't seem to have the system down at any rate. I hope they finally got it right in the end, but the poor man was so frustrated. I considered jumping in to help, but didn't want to insult the poor guy.
(As an aside, why is it that many elderly people get so annoyed when teenagers or other young folk are disrespectful, yet those same elderly people show no fear in being disrespectful to strangers or their loved ones? Shouldn't respect breed more respect? Just another one of those paradoxes.)
Meanwhile, I was distracted momentarily by a server who I am sure started off in English, but ended by saying something like "How are you beautiful?" in Spanish. (I don't speak much Spanish, but I do know that.) My head is stuffed up, and he was talking really fast, so I just looked at him blankly as I tried to process. He smiled and walked away before I could give him an odd look like "why are you flirting with me while you're working? Or do you just think I'm some silly blonde chick who can't speak Spanish?"
At long last, I received my order of a pork salad on a wheat tortilla, with shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, and cilantro-lime dressing and happily handed my card to the cashier.
FREE MEAL!!
I still get a kick out of hearing everyone shout that! Since it was free, I grabbed a diet coke, and took the meal to go.
Mmmm, Cafe Rio. Hooray for another successful trip!
And now I'll be full until dinnertime tomorrow :oD
Live in the Moment Once in Awhile...
"Imagination and fiction make up more than three-quarters of our real life."
-Simon Weil
Wednesday, June 4
Powerful
I'm used to going to Web sites or blogs and getting all excited: What will I find there? Will there be something new? I love the anticipation, which is why I'll check some sites multiple times during the day. Sure, I'm kinda bummed if there isn't anything new, but hey, maybe there will be next time!
So, knowing that if I don't update something on my blog there most likely WON'T be anything new will take some getting used to. It's a weird feeling, but also makes me feel powerful. No anticipation on my part, but I get to create something that's uniquely mine. How cool is that?
Look, Mom! I have my own Web site! (Thanks again, Wendi, for helping with the initial setup and for all of your advice :O)
So, knowing that if I don't update something on my blog there most likely WON'T be anything new will take some getting used to. It's a weird feeling, but also makes me feel powerful. No anticipation on my part, but I get to create something that's uniquely mine. How cool is that?
Look, Mom! I have my own Web site! (Thanks again, Wendi, for helping with the initial setup and for all of your advice :O)
Tuesday, June 3
Clapping Skills
On Tuesdays, the Deseret News prints part of a serialized children's book that parents can read to their kids or whatever. They've been printing Ramona the Pest by Beverly Cleary for the past couple of months, and I really enjoyed getting to know her again. They are the first books I remember reading over and over. Man, Aunt Bea was cool. I wish I were more like her sometimes.
I missed last week's installment, so imagine my sadness to find that it was the LAST CHAPTER! Boo! Oh, well. I need to borrow all of them from the library anyway.
Fortunately, I've discovered a new comic strip. It's not often I laugh out loud, but today I did! See what you think:
Cul de Sac by Richard Thompson
I don't know who the kid on the left is, but he made my day!
I missed last week's installment, so imagine my sadness to find that it was the LAST CHAPTER! Boo! Oh, well. I need to borrow all of them from the library anyway.
Fortunately, I've discovered a new comic strip. It's not often I laugh out loud, but today I did! See what you think:
Cul de Sac by Richard Thompson
I don't know who the kid on the left is, but he made my day!
The Story Behind the Title...
Hello folks!
Just wanted to start by explaining the title of my blog: "How am I Still Single?" I hope anyone who reads this would know me well enough to know I'm joking. I get this question from well-meaning people fairly frequently, and every time I go into a little personality crisis: "Am I okay? What's wrong with me? Will I ever find love or let it find me?" (I'm a girl and we think like that sometimes.) Well, I used to go to the temple and do initiatories every week. Since I went the same day and time each week, I got to know some of the workers pretty well. Inevitably, one of them would ask me the Question, and I'd just smile and say something like "you're so nice," but one day I felt a little irritated. I didn't say it out loud, but when this sweet elderly lady said "you're just so beautiful. How are you still single?" I thought "how are you still married, asking stupid questions like that?" I know. I was disappointed in myself, too.
I grew up in Utah, reading fairy tales that end "happily ever after", aka: with a wedding. Most of my family and friends over the age of 23 are married. I graduated from BYU, I served a mission, and I actively attend my LDS singles ward. I'm 29 and single, and to quote Diane Keaton in Father of the Bride 2, "I don't think that qualifies me for the Book of World Records."
I would like to be married, and hopefully someday I will be. Until then, I am trying to take some advice from Elder Dallin H. Oaks's now infamous 2005 CES Fireside talk: "If you are just marking time waiting for a marriage prospect, stop waiting. You may never have the opportunity for a suitable marriage in this life, so stop waiting and start moving. Prepare yourself for life—even a single life—by education, experience, and planning. Don’t wait for happiness to be thrust upon you. Seek it out in service and learning. Make a life for yourself. And trust in the Lord. Your dedication of a lifetime should follow King Benjamin’s advice to be “calling on the name of the Lord daily, and standing steadfastly in the faith of that which is to come” (Mosiah 4:11)."
The desire to be loved crosses all gender, historical, and cultural boundaries, along with the desire to see those that we love in a healthy relationship. I want to thank all of the people who love me enough to ask the Question, because I know you just want me to be happy. I apologize if I'm ever defensive. (I would also like to thank all those who meet a great guy and think "I should set him up with Megan!" Whether the guy and I actually go out or not, it is such a powerful compliment to know that 1 - you trust me to not make you look bad with whoever this guy is, 2 - that you think of me at all, and 3 - that you think I'd be a good match for a great guy!) I love you, and am grateful for your friendship, amazing example, and support.
Phew! Glad to have that over.
Just wanted to start by explaining the title of my blog: "How am I Still Single?" I hope anyone who reads this would know me well enough to know I'm joking. I get this question from well-meaning people fairly frequently, and every time I go into a little personality crisis: "Am I okay? What's wrong with me? Will I ever find love or let it find me?" (I'm a girl and we think like that sometimes.) Well, I used to go to the temple and do initiatories every week. Since I went the same day and time each week, I got to know some of the workers pretty well. Inevitably, one of them would ask me the Question, and I'd just smile and say something like "you're so nice," but one day I felt a little irritated. I didn't say it out loud, but when this sweet elderly lady said "you're just so beautiful. How are you still single?" I thought "how are you still married, asking stupid questions like that?" I know. I was disappointed in myself, too.
I grew up in Utah, reading fairy tales that end "happily ever after", aka: with a wedding. Most of my family and friends over the age of 23 are married. I graduated from BYU, I served a mission, and I actively attend my LDS singles ward. I'm 29 and single, and to quote Diane Keaton in Father of the Bride 2, "I don't think that qualifies me for the Book of World Records."
I would like to be married, and hopefully someday I will be. Until then, I am trying to take some advice from Elder Dallin H. Oaks's now infamous 2005 CES Fireside talk: "If you are just marking time waiting for a marriage prospect, stop waiting. You may never have the opportunity for a suitable marriage in this life, so stop waiting and start moving. Prepare yourself for life—even a single life—by education, experience, and planning. Don’t wait for happiness to be thrust upon you. Seek it out in service and learning. Make a life for yourself. And trust in the Lord. Your dedication of a lifetime should follow King Benjamin’s advice to be “calling on the name of the Lord daily, and standing steadfastly in the faith of that which is to come” (Mosiah 4:11)."
The desire to be loved crosses all gender, historical, and cultural boundaries, along with the desire to see those that we love in a healthy relationship. I want to thank all of the people who love me enough to ask the Question, because I know you just want me to be happy. I apologize if I'm ever defensive. (I would also like to thank all those who meet a great guy and think "I should set him up with Megan!" Whether the guy and I actually go out or not, it is such a powerful compliment to know that 1 - you trust me to not make you look bad with whoever this guy is, 2 - that you think of me at all, and 3 - that you think I'd be a good match for a great guy!) I love you, and am grateful for your friendship, amazing example, and support.
Phew! Glad to have that over.
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