It's no secret I'm a fan of Star Trek. Up to now it's mostly been the movies and the later series. I haven't been very familiar with the original series, so the last few months I've been taking advantage of the fact that two channels are rerunning TOS so that I can catch the 50+ episodes I haven't seen.
It's been educational. As with most t.v. shows, some episodes are better than others, and some are downright boring. But, I've noticed that although Kirk hooks up with nearly every female guest star that shows up, he is very sincerely in love with each of them, and it's almost believable. And I confess that my crush on young Leonard Nimoy is not inconsiderable.
But my favorite TOS character has been and always will be Leonard "Bones" McCoy. He just cracks me up. I love his friendship with Kirk and the way he spars with Spock. I love that he hates the transporter. I find it hilarious (as I think was intended) that he hates space flight and yet works on a starship. His southern accent and gentlemanly treatment toward women is highly attractive. He laughs at his own jokes. His professional knowledge, loyalty, and sense of right and wrong are impeccable, and he isn't afraid to stand up for himself in spite of his equally opinionated co-workers. McCoy is awesome.
Which is why I was so thrilled to see this clip from the new Star Trek movie coming out next Friday.
Dead on. Karl Urban, as I suspected, is perfectly cast. This movie is going to rock!
Thursday, April 30
Wednesday, April 29
Blink of an Eye
Monday night at Family Home Evening, my ward had a guest speaker. I had never heard of Brother W before that day, but he told us an incredible story:
Two years ago in February, he and his wife recieved a phone call at 1 a.m. It was the police telling Brother W that his son had been driving drunk, had hit a car, and killed a pregnant woman and two of her children. (Click here for more details). This family was in the teenager's stake, and the parents of the woman killed were in Brother W's ward at that time, so they'd known these people fairly well.
Can you imagine how devastated this father would be? He had to watch his son go through all of this, and he felt tremendous guilt toward the grieving family. It was amazing to hear him talk about the trial, his son's regret, and the surviving family members' forgiveness.
As Brother W described the events after the accident, what struck me most was how quickly and easily life changes. I can't take back my bad decisions. I can't change things that the people around me do. All I can do is my best and be supportive of those around me that are doing theirs, whether family, friends, or strangers. No one is perfect. We're living our lives in order to learn and figure things out. And even "bad" news can be kind of fantastic depending on the way you look at it.
I also thought of the Ceran family -- another who suffered through a similar horrible accident. I knew their family well and loved them. I heard about the accident on Christmas Eve and will never forget that phone call or visiting the survivors the next day. The thing they all said was that they were glad the three who died went together, because none of them could have born the deaths of the others. The three who lived felt very blessed they still had each other. They also forgave the other driver. I see them once in awhile and am always struck by how positive and happy they are. They miss their family and their life before, but they choose not to hold onto anger. Instead, they focus on their many blessings. And when it comes down to it, we never know what is coming. We can only hope for the best, accept the worst, and have faith it will all work out.
It was a really emotional meeting. I am glad the co-chairs put me in charge of the event, because if they hadn't I might not have been there. I had needed that message.
Brother W's son is now surving time in prison. His family loves him and is supporting them through the repentance process. I pray that whenever something unexpected comes to me and my loved ones that I'll be able to be as positive and loving as they have been.
Two years ago in February, he and his wife recieved a phone call at 1 a.m. It was the police telling Brother W that his son had been driving drunk, had hit a car, and killed a pregnant woman and two of her children. (Click here for more details). This family was in the teenager's stake, and the parents of the woman killed were in Brother W's ward at that time, so they'd known these people fairly well.
Can you imagine how devastated this father would be? He had to watch his son go through all of this, and he felt tremendous guilt toward the grieving family. It was amazing to hear him talk about the trial, his son's regret, and the surviving family members' forgiveness.
As Brother W described the events after the accident, what struck me most was how quickly and easily life changes. I can't take back my bad decisions. I can't change things that the people around me do. All I can do is my best and be supportive of those around me that are doing theirs, whether family, friends, or strangers. No one is perfect. We're living our lives in order to learn and figure things out. And even "bad" news can be kind of fantastic depending on the way you look at it.
I also thought of the Ceran family -- another who suffered through a similar horrible accident. I knew their family well and loved them. I heard about the accident on Christmas Eve and will never forget that phone call or visiting the survivors the next day. The thing they all said was that they were glad the three who died went together, because none of them could have born the deaths of the others. The three who lived felt very blessed they still had each other. They also forgave the other driver. I see them once in awhile and am always struck by how positive and happy they are. They miss their family and their life before, but they choose not to hold onto anger. Instead, they focus on their many blessings. And when it comes down to it, we never know what is coming. We can only hope for the best, accept the worst, and have faith it will all work out.
It was a really emotional meeting. I am glad the co-chairs put me in charge of the event, because if they hadn't I might not have been there. I had needed that message.
Brother W's son is now surving time in prison. His family loves him and is supporting them through the repentance process. I pray that whenever something unexpected comes to me and my loved ones that I'll be able to be as positive and loving as they have been.
Tuesday, April 28
Nothing Bundt Cakes
Today, I and some of the girls at work needed some chocolate, so we decided to take a short break and decided to go find some. It was while driving that Michele S, Emily A and I realized we just wanted chocolate and didn't care much about the details -- place, form, or price. Therefore, we couldn't decide if we should go to Tin Roof Grill, Chili's, Kneaders, Paradise Bakery, Cold Stone, Harmons, See's Candies, or Red Mango. There is no group so indecisive as women who want chocolate in whatever form!We finally decided on a place I'd never heard of: Nothing Bundt Cakes. It's such a cute little shop! The display was geared towards weddings and baby showers. You've got to love a place where the main decorations are bundt cakes with flowers in the center... and the frosting dripping over the sides... mmmm... cream cheese frosting. They even had little onsies with silly "bundt" slogans, frilly aprons, and rubber gloves with fancy gingham cuffs. Everything about the place said "girly". I didn't see a single man while we were there (or a married man either -- high-o!). Quite a few pregnant women and their friends, though.
They had free samples of red velvet cake. It was so perfectly moist and the chocolate chips added just the right touch -- I had to eat two!! (I've mentioned how I don't have any self-control lately, right?) In spite of our earlier indecision and all of the different cake choices, Michele and I settled on sharing a single serving chocolate-chip cake. I tell you what: it was good. Good enough that if that place were closer to work or my apartment I'd probably go once or twice a week. Fortunately, it isn't close to anywhere I go with any regularity. My waistline is greatful.
It sure was what I wanted today! Hooray for chocolate cake on a rainy turned sunny day!
Monday, April 27
Nonsensical
I am not, in general, a fan of poetry. I don't really get the symbolism. I like to be told outright "this is what I'm saying."
But, I like this poem. Specifically, I like reading it out loud. The rhythm and sounds are lovely! They make me want to make up a crazy little dance, or a slap game, or jump rope routine like we did in elementary school... maybe that's the point of this poem. That's what I get from it anyway...
When read aloud, it says:
Waka waka bang splat tick tick hash,
Caret quote back-tick dollar dollar dash,
Bang splat equal at dollar under-score,
Percent splat waka waka tilde number four,
Ampersand bracket bracket dot dot slash,
Vertical-bar curly-bracket comma comma CRASH.
But, I like this poem. Specifically, I like reading it out loud. The rhythm and sounds are lovely! They make me want to make up a crazy little dance, or a slap game, or jump rope routine like we did in elementary school... maybe that's the point of this poem. That's what I get from it anyway...
The Symbolic Poem
by Fred Bremmer and Steve Kroese
< > !* ' ' #
^ " ` $$-
!*=@$_
%*< > ~ #4
&[ ]../
|{,,SYSTEM HALTED
When read aloud, it says:
Waka waka bang splat tick tick hash,
Caret quote back-tick dollar dollar dash,
Bang splat equal at dollar under-score,
Percent splat waka waka tilde number four,
Ampersand bracket bracket dot dot slash,
Vertical-bar curly-bracket comma comma CRASH.
(A poll conducted among readers of InFocus magazine, where it was originally published, established "waka" as the proper pronunciation for the angle-bracket characters, though some held out resolutely for "norkie".)
Friday, April 24
A Plea to Drivers
The last couple of months while driving, I've nearly been creamed by other cars at least once a week. It's starting to make me afraid to drive! SUVs, sedans, trucks -- none of them seem to see my little red car. They like to merge into my lane while I'm still in it and they haven't passed me, yet, or pull out of their parking space while I'm driving up behind them. Yesterday it happened while my mom was with me, so I know I'm not just imagining things.
It's a good thing I'm paying attention and have managed to avoid disaster thus far, but I start to wonder: is it me, or is it all them? I generally avoid talking on the phone while driving, but I am not always 100% successful (I am very aware that my driving skills suck when I'm on the phone). Sometimes when I sing I stop noticing exactly where I am, though I try at least to always notice where the other cars are in proximity to me. And if I start to get mad when someone drives like a jerk, it takes a minute to remind myself I've probably done the same thing to someone else.
So, I'm not saying AT ALL that I'm a perfect or even a great driver, but it bothers me how casually people act when operating a 20000 ton vehicle/weapon. Really, you have to pay attention every minute. I keep hearing stories of little kids being run over in the driveway and drunk drivers who hit and kill passengers in other cars but aren't injured themselves. I generally like to drive, but I think I've used my horn more in the last few months than I have in the whole rest of my 13 years of driving, and the recipients still don't acknowledge me! They just keep doing whatever it is they're doing!! My nerves are shot.
Don't even get me started on road rage.
Please people, pay attention**! Even when you're not on your cell phones (though you usually are) you're still doing stupid things! What is the priority here? I'm sorry if you forgot to get into the right lane in time to catch your exit, but it is probably more convenient to just go to the next exit than risk getting in an accident.
If you'll all promise to drive more defensively, I promise to continue to try to improve, too. Driving is a privilege and a responsibility. Please take it seriously.
**Directed to the general public, not any of my friends specifically, unless you've almost run into any little blonde drivers in little red cars lately.
It's a good thing I'm paying attention and have managed to avoid disaster thus far, but I start to wonder: is it me, or is it all them? I generally avoid talking on the phone while driving, but I am not always 100% successful (I am very aware that my driving skills suck when I'm on the phone). Sometimes when I sing I stop noticing exactly where I am, though I try at least to always notice where the other cars are in proximity to me. And if I start to get mad when someone drives like a jerk, it takes a minute to remind myself I've probably done the same thing to someone else.
So, I'm not saying AT ALL that I'm a perfect or even a great driver, but it bothers me how casually people act when operating a 20000 ton vehicle/weapon. Really, you have to pay attention every minute. I keep hearing stories of little kids being run over in the driveway and drunk drivers who hit and kill passengers in other cars but aren't injured themselves. I generally like to drive, but I think I've used my horn more in the last few months than I have in the whole rest of my 13 years of driving, and the recipients still don't acknowledge me! They just keep doing whatever it is they're doing!! My nerves are shot.
Don't even get me started on road rage.
Please people, pay attention**! Even when you're not on your cell phones (though you usually are) you're still doing stupid things! What is the priority here? I'm sorry if you forgot to get into the right lane in time to catch your exit, but it is probably more convenient to just go to the next exit than risk getting in an accident.
If you'll all promise to drive more defensively, I promise to continue to try to improve, too. Driving is a privilege and a responsibility. Please take it seriously.
**Directed to the general public, not any of my friends specifically, unless you've almost run into any little blonde drivers in little red cars lately.
Wednesday, April 22
A "Popular" Play
I got to see Wicked last night and it was wonderful! I decided to drive downtown a bit early so I could find a somewhat nearby parking space and grab some dinner before the play. Of course, everyone else had the same idea, so the wait at the Olive Garden was ridiculous. I ended up grabbing some minestrone salad and soup to go and just eating it outside the restaurant. It was such a lovely, warm, breezy day I was grateful to spend a few minutes in it! I ended up not eating the salad which meant I had to walk it back to my car. That's okay; it was another excuse to stay outside as long as possible.
Since I didn't want to have to stop at home between work and the play, I wore my dress and pretty new peep-toe shoes all day. This meant that walking back to the car with my leftovers was a bit torturous as I was starting to get blisters from the new shoes, but it was worth it for the leftovers. Besides, the shoes make me strut a little, and I love feeling all dressed up and classy! I just don't understand why someone would pay $90 for a ticket to a play, and then wear ratty jeans and flip-flops. I guess I'm a bit of a snob. Nice pants and flip-flops maybe, but jeans and a t-shirt? Really? We're not tourists in New York and seeing a show at the end of a long day of travel (though if I have the option I personally like to go back to the hotel and change for the show anyway). If you're not going to dress up for an anticipated event like this, what in the world would you dress up for?
As luck would have it, Elisha and her parents were there, too. Their seats were a couple of rows behind mine, but Elisha came over and chatted with me until the patrons with the tickets next to me showed up. It was nice to have the illusion of sharing the play with someone I know! I hope you enjoyed it, too, Sister!
As soon as the house lights dimmed -- even before the orchestra started -- everyone started cheering. This is a show where I really believe all of the elements -- spectacle, music, and story -- all blend together. No one aspect is more important than any other (as opposed to, say, Andrew Lloyd Webber's The Phantom of the Opera, which is another show I love and has gorgeous music and spectacle but is weak on character development). I admit, my eyes teared up every time anyone started singing! The costumes were gorgeous, the dancing was effortless, the stagehands and lighting crew were fantastic -- the whole production was just flawless. Elphaba's voice was powerful and her chemistry with Fiyero palpable -- man, was he handsome! My favorite was Galinda -- she was hysterical! I saw the actress, Katie Rose Clarke, in The Light in the Piazza on Broadway a few years ago and she was great there too. Her antics during the song "Popular" and the scene surrounding it were my favorite part of the show. I want to be like her! I wished I had been able to get tickets for all of my loved ones so they could share the experience. I almost wished I hadn't seen it before so the ending could be a surprise once again -- I am always delighted to see how it all comes together. I am pretty stingy with standing ovations, but I was happy to give one to this touring production of Wicked. Oh, how I love this play!
Now that the experience is over, I'm disappointed that I don't have it to look forward to anymore! The result was totally worth the aggravation I suffered on Halloween. It was a lovely, long six months of anticipation.
I need to plan something else to agonize over and look forward to...
Tuesday, April 21
The Summer Ahead
The Seussical callback was really fun. I was thrilled when after my dance audition Stephanie M said "I didn't know you could dance like that! I should have given you harder choreography last year!" Normally, my dancing is the part I'm least confident in, but in spite of sort of crashing into a wall I felt really good about it! (They let me try the dance again...far away from any walls...)
I had written down I'd only take one of two parts -- Gertrude or Mayzie. There were a LOT of wonderfully talented women there, so I wasn't surprised when I wasn't cast in either. I am super-excited for Candice (the Cat in the Hat) and Elisha (Pamela Anderson... I mean Mayzie), and Stephanie M's kids! They are going to have a blast working with our adorable Stephanie J and her pro team. How I love them!
Elisha told me about her part Saturday night, and Kate mentioned later that evening that she'd talked to Stephanie J and someone else was Gertrude. I figured that was that, so I was surprised on Sunday when Steph called and asked if I'd be willing to accept a part as a Bird Girl. I asked for a day to think about it. After debating it with myself all day, Steph and I talked about it, and ultimately I decided it doesn't feel right. It was a really hard choice. Thanks Stephanie for being so understanding. I do look forward to doing another show with you in the future, and more than that I think we need to goof off together sometime! We need to plan another Girl's Night in the near future, I think.
There are a few other plays I might audition for, but I admit I'm sort of drawn to the idea of not doing a play this summer. I don't know what else I'd do, because I haven't not done a show in the summer in at least 10 years. It's oddly freeing. Take a dance class? Start relearning to play the violin? Live at the movie theatre? Sign up to be an extra on evenings and weekends? Hang out at the Gateway and write in my journal? Start working on my book or an additional blog? Play with my nephew and nieces? Learn to bake, knit, and quilt? Read a lot? All of the above?
Who knows?
I had written down I'd only take one of two parts -- Gertrude or Mayzie. There were a LOT of wonderfully talented women there, so I wasn't surprised when I wasn't cast in either. I am super-excited for Candice (the Cat in the Hat) and Elisha (Pamela Anderson... I mean Mayzie), and Stephanie M's kids! They are going to have a blast working with our adorable Stephanie J and her pro team. How I love them!
Elisha told me about her part Saturday night, and Kate mentioned later that evening that she'd talked to Stephanie J and someone else was Gertrude. I figured that was that, so I was surprised on Sunday when Steph called and asked if I'd be willing to accept a part as a Bird Girl. I asked for a day to think about it. After debating it with myself all day, Steph and I talked about it, and ultimately I decided it doesn't feel right. It was a really hard choice. Thanks Stephanie for being so understanding. I do look forward to doing another show with you in the future, and more than that I think we need to goof off together sometime! We need to plan another Girl's Night in the near future, I think.
There are a few other plays I might audition for, but I admit I'm sort of drawn to the idea of not doing a play this summer. I don't know what else I'd do, because I haven't not done a show in the summer in at least 10 years. It's oddly freeing. Take a dance class? Start relearning to play the violin? Live at the movie theatre? Sign up to be an extra on evenings and weekends? Hang out at the Gateway and write in my journal? Start working on my book or an additional blog? Play with my nephew and nieces? Learn to bake, knit, and quilt? Read a lot? All of the above?
Who knows?
Friday, April 17
One Ticket
My sister-in-law Lindsey and my dear friend Michelle are both dying to see the musical Wicked. I recieved an email from my bank back in September telling me that I could get advanced tickets on Halloween. So, I talked to my brother Adam, and he agreed to reimburse me for tickets for him and Lindsey if I could get them. Lindsey's birthday is the day after Halloween -- how cool would it be for Adam to surprise her with tickets to a play she so very much wanted to see? I have seen the play twice and absolutely loved it, but since I hadn't mentioned the possibility of tickets to Michelle, I would have been perfectly content to just get two tickets for my brother and sister-in-law and call it a day.
So, I got the code for the advance ticket sales. I was supposed to call the box office or go online at 10am, but the email didn't say whether it was Eastern or Mountain time. I set my alarm for 7:50am and was out of bed and online at home by 8am. When I logged onto the Website, I realized it was ArtTix which doesn't open until 10.
As I mentioned, this was Halloween day. My fellow Doc Team members and I had discussed dressing up for work, and I decided to go for broke and wear my Sleeping Beauty costume. My mother made it for me 10 years ago and it is awesome! It was slightly annoying wearing that poufy petticoat at my desk, but I always feel pretty when I wear it so it was totally worth it.
Unfortunately, ArtTix had no idea just how many people in Salt Lake belong to my bank, and how many of those people and their friends would want tickets to this play. I admit I had no idea either, and had somehow thought that logging in and purchasing 4 tickets would be the work of half an hour. Instead, I spent the next FOUR HOURS getting more and more frustrated by the Website. That thing ran slow and crashed a LOT. It was the most frustrating thing I'd ever been a part of. Any time I FINALLY accessed the page where it said specific seats were available and I had 10 minutes to purchase them before they were released back to the public, I would click the Purchase button... and then the system would take 20 minutes to load, effectively loosing my tickets. And the phone lines were continuously busy.
About 2pm, the site went down for good, and they displayed a notice stating I could go to the Rose Wagner Theatre or Capitol Theatre and buy tickets from the Box Office. What the what?!!! If I'd known that had been an option, I would have been there at 10am. I decided to just call it a personal day, and drove downtown praying I could still get tickets. My manager and teammates were very supportive. But then, can anyone say "no" to Princess Aurora?
Picture this: a red sedan parks on the street on 3rd South and Main. A blonde girl in a blue Sleeping Beauty costume complete with gold-colored necklace, sequined tiara, and freakishly poufy slip steps out and feeds money into the meter. This girl then proceeds to RUN down the street to the Capitol Theatre and get in a surprisingly short line of about 20 people, a couple of whom do double-takes when seeing her out of the corner of their eyes. Her heart sinks as an usher tells her and the others in line that at this point (about 3pm), the only tickets available are either single tickets during the week, or pairs on Sunday. When I reached the ticket booth and asked about availability, I discovered that the ushers had been correct. I left a message for Adam asking if he'd be interested in Sunday tickets, but suspected he wouldn't, so I didn't get them any. (He called back later and confirmed I was right.)
I bought myself a ticket. As stated in the first paragraph, I would have been fine not going, but after all I'd been through, there was NO WAY I was leaving empty-handed. The nice thing about just getting the one ticket was that I got a pretty good seat!
Since I was in costume and I had nothing better to do at three-thirty in the afternoon, I wandered around downtown for a little while after purchasing my ticket. It was pretty fun seeing all the little kids freak out with excitement when they saw me, and the adults smile as if saying "Oh you!" and the teenage boys ride their bikes past and yell "Hey Cinderella!"... well, a princess is a princess. I may have to do it again next Halloween...
The story continues:
Just for fun, earlier this week, I decided to check online to see if any tickets had become available. To my surprise, ArtTix said there were some seats, but I'd have to call in. So, I asked Michelle if, if I could exchange my ticket or get another next to me, she'd be willing to go. She could not say "yes" fast enough. I even found a buyer for my single ticket if I was able to get two.
Of course, when I called, the person on the phone said there were no tickets left. When I helpfully told her to make sure the Website was updated so more stupid people like me didn't call, she became really rude and kept repeating "We are sold out. We are sold out!" Yeah, I got that. But it's confusing and mean to get people's hopes up by saying on the stupid Website there are tickets when there aren't any!
So I got the crappy job to tell Michelle and the other buyer that I couldn't get them tickets. I feel like a terrible friend for getting their hopes up. I should have checked verbally for ticket availability first.
Anyhow, that's why I only have one ticket. I'm a little bummed that I won't get to share the experience with someone. Guess next time I know I can buy my ticket at the box office and save myself a bunch of trouble!
... But in calling the box office I realized how excited I am to go! I'm not indifferent. My ticket is for this coming Tuesday and I cannot wait! It's weird to think I've had it stuck to my fridge for the last 6 months. I usually don't plan that far in advance, and it's now feeling real! I get to see Wicked again in four days! Hooray!
So, I got the code for the advance ticket sales. I was supposed to call the box office or go online at 10am, but the email didn't say whether it was Eastern or Mountain time. I set my alarm for 7:50am and was out of bed and online at home by 8am. When I logged onto the Website, I realized it was ArtTix which doesn't open until 10.
As I mentioned, this was Halloween day. My fellow Doc Team members and I had discussed dressing up for work, and I decided to go for broke and wear my Sleeping Beauty costume. My mother made it for me 10 years ago and it is awesome! It was slightly annoying wearing that poufy petticoat at my desk, but I always feel pretty when I wear it so it was totally worth it.
Unfortunately, ArtTix had no idea just how many people in Salt Lake belong to my bank, and how many of those people and their friends would want tickets to this play. I admit I had no idea either, and had somehow thought that logging in and purchasing 4 tickets would be the work of half an hour. Instead, I spent the next FOUR HOURS getting more and more frustrated by the Website. That thing ran slow and crashed a LOT. It was the most frustrating thing I'd ever been a part of. Any time I FINALLY accessed the page where it said specific seats were available and I had 10 minutes to purchase them before they were released back to the public, I would click the Purchase button... and then the system would take 20 minutes to load, effectively loosing my tickets. And the phone lines were continuously busy.
About 2pm, the site went down for good, and they displayed a notice stating I could go to the Rose Wagner Theatre or Capitol Theatre and buy tickets from the Box Office. What the what?!!! If I'd known that had been an option, I would have been there at 10am. I decided to just call it a personal day, and drove downtown praying I could still get tickets. My manager and teammates were very supportive. But then, can anyone say "no" to Princess Aurora?
Picture this: a red sedan parks on the street on 3rd South and Main. A blonde girl in a blue Sleeping Beauty costume complete with gold-colored necklace, sequined tiara, and freakishly poufy slip steps out and feeds money into the meter. This girl then proceeds to RUN down the street to the Capitol Theatre and get in a surprisingly short line of about 20 people, a couple of whom do double-takes when seeing her out of the corner of their eyes. Her heart sinks as an usher tells her and the others in line that at this point (about 3pm), the only tickets available are either single tickets during the week, or pairs on Sunday. When I reached the ticket booth and asked about availability, I discovered that the ushers had been correct. I left a message for Adam asking if he'd be interested in Sunday tickets, but suspected he wouldn't, so I didn't get them any. (He called back later and confirmed I was right.)I bought myself a ticket. As stated in the first paragraph, I would have been fine not going, but after all I'd been through, there was NO WAY I was leaving empty-handed. The nice thing about just getting the one ticket was that I got a pretty good seat!
Since I was in costume and I had nothing better to do at three-thirty in the afternoon, I wandered around downtown for a little while after purchasing my ticket. It was pretty fun seeing all the little kids freak out with excitement when they saw me, and the adults smile as if saying "Oh you!" and the teenage boys ride their bikes past and yell "Hey Cinderella!"... well, a princess is a princess. I may have to do it again next Halloween...
The story continues:
Just for fun, earlier this week, I decided to check online to see if any tickets had become available. To my surprise, ArtTix said there were some seats, but I'd have to call in. So, I asked Michelle if, if I could exchange my ticket or get another next to me, she'd be willing to go. She could not say "yes" fast enough. I even found a buyer for my single ticket if I was able to get two.
Of course, when I called, the person on the phone said there were no tickets left. When I helpfully told her to make sure the Website was updated so more stupid people like me didn't call, she became really rude and kept repeating "We are sold out. We are sold out!" Yeah, I got that. But it's confusing and mean to get people's hopes up by saying on the stupid Website there are tickets when there aren't any!
So I got the crappy job to tell Michelle and the other buyer that I couldn't get them tickets. I feel like a terrible friend for getting their hopes up. I should have checked verbally for ticket availability first.
Anyhow, that's why I only have one ticket. I'm a little bummed that I won't get to share the experience with someone. Guess next time I know I can buy my ticket at the box office and save myself a bunch of trouble!
... But in calling the box office I realized how excited I am to go! I'm not indifferent. My ticket is for this coming Tuesday and I cannot wait! It's weird to think I've had it stuck to my fridge for the last 6 months. I usually don't plan that far in advance, and it's now feeling real! I get to see Wicked again in four days! Hooray!
Thursday, April 16
Inspiring
I love this clip of Susan Boyle on Britain's Got Talent.
I don't want to give anything away if you haven't already seen or heard about this, so I'll just say: Please click the link above and watch the entire thing. I think you'll be glad you did.
I don't want to give anything away if you haven't already seen or heard about this, so I'll just say: Please click the link above and watch the entire thing. I think you'll be glad you did.
Monday, April 13
Easter Festivities
You married folks or those who spend a lot of time around children may wonder: what might a single person do to celebrate Easter weekend? Well my friends, that's what this post is here to explore!
My manager Beth enlisted my help to do something fun for our teammates for Easter. Her idea was to put together a one-clue scavenger hunt and hide the treats somewhere different for each person. Since the team is so fond of chocolate, I bought mini-Cadbury cream eggs, regular-sized orange cream eggs, tiny hollow bunnies and chicks, and peanut butter eggs. What I forgot, however, was something to put all the
chocolate in! I did have colored construction paper for the clues, so I ended up folding a page into a cone and drawing a rabbit face on it. Beth even found some rope we could use as whiskers. The resulting bunnies were a little scary, but pretty cute (if I do say so myself). Unfortunately, if we tried to lay the cone on its side all the candy spilled out. So, we grabbed styrofoam cups, drew pictures on them, and placed the construction-paper bunnies inside so that just the ears stuck out. Truely, we were working with what we had.
Beth and I were the lasts ones in the office Thursday night, so we were able to hide the bunnies without fear of being caught. Friday morning I miraculously arrived first anyway, so I got to hear how excited the others were when they discovered the clues and then the bunnies. It was fun! (And I get to eat the leftover candy. Thankfully, there isn't much...) Everyone ooh'd and aah'd over the bunnies. I may have missed my calling as a Kindergarten teacher; you don't grow up around my creative mom without learning a few skills!
On Sunday, I forgot it was Easter until just as I was leaving my apartment. I suppose I'm the only one who felt I looked conspicuous in my non-pastel, non-floral dress (I wore a black dress with red hearts on it), but I still felt disappointed. I had been late to church and didn't had time to change. For some reason, I had thought Easter was the next Sunday. I really couldn't tell you why!
During Relief Society, the teacher recounted the last week in Christ's life. I admit, I was distracted and endeared by the teacher's pronunciation of words, such as "crucification" instead of "crucifixion". I think she was just nervous, but she was darling! It reminded me of Galinda in the musical Wicked because she does the same thing with her words. However, I think Galinda does it because she's either that spacey or she just likes the way the words sound... who knows?
In Sacrament meeting there was a baby blessing...in my Singles' ward. Never fear, it was for the Bishopric 2nd Counselor's grandson (whose parents are married), but it was a little odd hearing the cooing during the meeting. Cute baby, though. His family was on my row so I glanced over at him. To my surprise, there was a slightly older infant nearby. I wanted so much to go over and squish their pudgy little legs -- my nieces can't come soon enough!
I hadn't seen my family in two weeks because of my trip, so I was excited to see them
for dinner. I even dressed up, sort of. Turns out that was a good thing, because we had guests! My mom's mom, my sister-in-law's brother Russell, and his girlfriend Angela all joined the rest of us for dinner and frivolity. I played with Gunner for a bit and it turns out I'm a pretty neat Catwoman, and not nearly as good as he when it comes to hiding Easter eggs. Then Gunner and Peter and David all tried to get a really cool dragon kite in the air. I didn't watch so I'm not sure if they succeeded. It didn't seem to be a terribly windy day, but anything's possible.
At one point, all of the girls got together to talk about baby things. When Lindsey said she was excited to dress the girls in frilly things for Easter, my mom and I both cheered "Yay!" (I think our outburst scared everyone else in the group.) My mom used to sew my dresses and make headbands and clips for my hair --that's half the reason I am now so girly. Now we'll have not one but two little girls to play dress up with! Thank goodness Mom kept many of my costumes growing up...
Thanks again, Mom, for not making up Easter baskets this year. I snacked on the available candy quite enough; it was nice not to take any home.
You might think that my Easter fun ended with Sunday, wouldn't you? Ha! The FHE Committee decided that for the activity tonight we should do something having to do with the holiday. As I recall, I was the one who came up with the super-cool idea to play "Egg-cellent" games, i.e. games revolving around eggs. There was egg dying (and
an opportunity to destroy), an egg hunt, and 7-11. I ended up playing 7-11 the whole time and winning big! Who knew I was so lucky at dice? By the end, there were three guys and three ladies at the table, and I rolled 7 and 11 enough to end up with the Twix at the end. It took forever, though. We came up with a rule that rolling snake eyes warranted Truth or Dare (well, just truth) but none of us was brave enough to actually answer. There was plenty of candy so everyone got something. When we finished, the six of us confessed our movie-star crushes in an effort to get to know each other a little better, which was pretty interesting. Seriously, good times.
One of my personal goals was reinforced this week. During Sunday School, the teacher managed to bring the discussion around to the Atonement (it was a lesson on family history). She asked us to take a minute to find our favorite scripture on the Atonement. It was then I realized I don't have a favorite scripture about the Atonement. But as I navigated through the Book of Mormon to 3 Nephi, a verse in chapter 9 caught my eye:
I was reminded that I need to be better than I am. In order for me to benefit from Jesus Christ's sacrifice, I need to give my whole heart. Most days I feel like I go through the motions instead of really grabbing the opportunities given me. I read the scriptures regularly, but I only go to FHE once every couple of months. I have a goal to go to Institute at least once a month, but I don't talk to anyone there unless I already know them. My Savior hoped for more than that from me, and wanted me to gain the blessings. He not only atoned for my sins, He taught how I can utilize the Atonement to become perfect and live with Him again. Eternal Salvation is very do-able, but it takes constant focus and effort. I must do better; I will do better. I am thankful for the Atonement. I am thankful that the Western world celebrates that magnificent event, and that I know what it means. I just wish it lasted longer.
Does anyone else find it interesting that we have two months of Christmas music, decorations, and service, but on Easter we only have the one day and three hymns? Just something to think about.
Anyway, that was my single-gal Easter weekend. Was it all you expected?
My manager Beth enlisted my help to do something fun for our teammates for Easter. Her idea was to put together a one-clue scavenger hunt and hide the treats somewhere different for each person. Since the team is so fond of chocolate, I bought mini-Cadbury cream eggs, regular-sized orange cream eggs, tiny hollow bunnies and chicks, and peanut butter eggs. What I forgot, however, was something to put all the
chocolate in! I did have colored construction paper for the clues, so I ended up folding a page into a cone and drawing a rabbit face on it. Beth even found some rope we could use as whiskers. The resulting bunnies were a little scary, but pretty cute (if I do say so myself). Unfortunately, if we tried to lay the cone on its side all the candy spilled out. So, we grabbed styrofoam cups, drew pictures on them, and placed the construction-paper bunnies inside so that just the ears stuck out. Truely, we were working with what we had. 
Beth and I were the lasts ones in the office Thursday night, so we were able to hide the bunnies without fear of being caught. Friday morning I miraculously arrived first anyway, so I got to hear how excited the others were when they discovered the clues and then the bunnies. It was fun! (And I get to eat the leftover candy. Thankfully, there isn't much...) Everyone ooh'd and aah'd over the bunnies. I may have missed my calling as a Kindergarten teacher; you don't grow up around my creative mom without learning a few skills!On Sunday, I forgot it was Easter until just as I was leaving my apartment. I suppose I'm the only one who felt I looked conspicuous in my non-pastel, non-floral dress (I wore a black dress with red hearts on it), but I still felt disappointed. I had been late to church and didn't had time to change. For some reason, I had thought Easter was the next Sunday. I really couldn't tell you why!
During Relief Society, the teacher recounted the last week in Christ's life. I admit, I was distracted and endeared by the teacher's pronunciation of words, such as "crucification" instead of "crucifixion". I think she was just nervous, but she was darling! It reminded me of Galinda in the musical Wicked because she does the same thing with her words. However, I think Galinda does it because she's either that spacey or she just likes the way the words sound... who knows?
In Sacrament meeting there was a baby blessing...in my Singles' ward. Never fear, it was for the Bishopric 2nd Counselor's grandson (whose parents are married), but it was a little odd hearing the cooing during the meeting. Cute baby, though. His family was on my row so I glanced over at him. To my surprise, there was a slightly older infant nearby. I wanted so much to go over and squish their pudgy little legs -- my nieces can't come soon enough!
I hadn't seen my family in two weeks because of my trip, so I was excited to see them
for dinner. I even dressed up, sort of. Turns out that was a good thing, because we had guests! My mom's mom, my sister-in-law's brother Russell, and his girlfriend Angela all joined the rest of us for dinner and frivolity. I played with Gunner for a bit and it turns out I'm a pretty neat Catwoman, and not nearly as good as he when it comes to hiding Easter eggs. Then Gunner and Peter and David all tried to get a really cool dragon kite in the air. I didn't watch so I'm not sure if they succeeded. It didn't seem to be a terribly windy day, but anything's possible.At one point, all of the girls got together to talk about baby things. When Lindsey said she was excited to dress the girls in frilly things for Easter, my mom and I both cheered "Yay!" (I think our outburst scared everyone else in the group.) My mom used to sew my dresses and make headbands and clips for my hair --that's half the reason I am now so girly. Now we'll have not one but two little girls to play dress up with! Thank goodness Mom kept many of my costumes growing up...
Thanks again, Mom, for not making up Easter baskets this year. I snacked on the available candy quite enough; it was nice not to take any home.
You might think that my Easter fun ended with Sunday, wouldn't you? Ha! The FHE Committee decided that for the activity tonight we should do something having to do with the holiday. As I recall, I was the one who came up with the super-cool idea to play "Egg-cellent" games, i.e. games revolving around eggs. There was egg dying (and
an opportunity to destroy), an egg hunt, and 7-11. I ended up playing 7-11 the whole time and winning big! Who knew I was so lucky at dice? By the end, there were three guys and three ladies at the table, and I rolled 7 and 11 enough to end up with the Twix at the end. It took forever, though. We came up with a rule that rolling snake eyes warranted Truth or Dare (well, just truth) but none of us was brave enough to actually answer. There was plenty of candy so everyone got something. When we finished, the six of us confessed our movie-star crushes in an effort to get to know each other a little better, which was pretty interesting. Seriously, good times.One of my personal goals was reinforced this week. During Sunday School, the teacher managed to bring the discussion around to the Atonement (it was a lesson on family history). She asked us to take a minute to find our favorite scripture on the Atonement. It was then I realized I don't have a favorite scripture about the Atonement. But as I navigated through the Book of Mormon to 3 Nephi, a verse in chapter 9 caught my eye:
19 And ye shall offer up unto me no more the shedding of blood; yea, your sacrifices and your burnt offerings shall be done away, for I will accept none of your sacrifices and your burnt offerings.
20 And ye shall offer for a sacrifice unto me a broken heart and a contrite spirit. And whoso cometh unto me with a broken heart and a contrite spirit, him will I baptize with fire and with the Holy Ghost, even as the Lamanites, because of their faith in me at the time of their conversion, were baptized with fire and with the Holy Ghost, and they knew it not.
I was reminded that I need to be better than I am. In order for me to benefit from Jesus Christ's sacrifice, I need to give my whole heart. Most days I feel like I go through the motions instead of really grabbing the opportunities given me. I read the scriptures regularly, but I only go to FHE once every couple of months. I have a goal to go to Institute at least once a month, but I don't talk to anyone there unless I already know them. My Savior hoped for more than that from me, and wanted me to gain the blessings. He not only atoned for my sins, He taught how I can utilize the Atonement to become perfect and live with Him again. Eternal Salvation is very do-able, but it takes constant focus and effort. I must do better; I will do better. I am thankful for the Atonement. I am thankful that the Western world celebrates that magnificent event, and that I know what it means. I just wish it lasted longer.
Does anyone else find it interesting that we have two months of Christmas music, decorations, and service, but on Easter we only have the one day and three hymns? Just something to think about.
Anyway, that was my single-gal Easter weekend. Was it all you expected?
Saturday, April 11
Adventures in Mesa
Yes, this is travel log. However, I will be endlessly entertained as I relive the memories from my recent vacation. I hope this translates into something enjoyable for you all as well...
My dear friend Michelle B. and I went to Mesa, AZ to visit our friend Jill who is in the Mesa Temple pagent. We're hoping she moves back here shortly, but we were happy to experience the sunshine and see where Jill's been living the entire winter!
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This is the snowman I made on my balcony three days before flying to sunny Mesa, Arizona. I'd wanted to make a snowman all winter, but never got around to it. I was pretty excited to do it, since it seems the snow season is over. I'll miss my sweaters and beautiful boots, but looking forward to sandals and skirts!
As you can see, Mesa lived up to its desert-y reputation, complete with cacti, sand landscape art instead of grass, and... palm trees? Okay, those were a little weird. I did not remember palm trees in Arizona when I served my mission there. But seeing as it was 78 degrees when we landed and there wasn't a cloud in sight I chose not to quibble about it.
We happened to arrive for the pagent's opening night! Since we had to drop Jill off to get ready for the show, Michelle and I were early enough to find phenomenal seats -- about 20th row center. We sat by some really kind and chatty elderly couples who were more than willing to share their life stories with us.
The pagent was amazing! I'd never been to one before. This one outlined the Savior's life and mission. I was really impressed with the cast, and totally blown away by the finale. It was so cool! Jill played one of the angels, and looked so at peace as she sang and danced. I video taped one of the scenes for her; sadly, none of the photos I took during the show turned out. Shoot!
After the play, Jill, Michelle and I joined the rest of the angels at Bahama Bucks for shaved ice with cream at Bahama Bucks. We're coming up on snow cone weather! Anyone else up for Snowasis on Memorial Day?
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Michelle and I did almost nothing on Thursday while Jill was at work, and we were pretty content with that. We did meet Jill and Joel (a friend we met on the cruise last year) for dinner before Jill had to dash off to the pagent. Michelle, Joel and I went to Tempe and walked along the Tempe Lake/resevoir dealie,.jpg)
and then explored the Tempe Arts Centre. Turns out Kareoke night had been the night before. Rats! We also looked in some of the shops, where Michelle tried on hats, and I bought a cute top I'm excited to wear when the weather at home finally becomes warm!
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Friday was a bit more productive. Michelle and I had lunch at In-N-Out Burger (yum!) before heading to Quality Nails for a pedicure. Thanks again for the recommendation, Jill! They had so many designs I had trouble choosing, but I settled for a pearly pink they painted PLAID ON EACH TOE! (Of course, this is useless at home since it's too cold for sandals, but I know how pretty my nails are!).jpg)
The massage chairs were heaven, too. I'd really needed one, and we never had the chance for a massage from a masseuse (ma-sewer? no idea what they're really called. Sorry masseuse friends!).
Then Michelle and I went shopping! Now, those of you who know me know I don't love shopping under normal circumstances. But I was on vacation, and Michelle was so excited to shop! She's a single mom, so normally she has to hurry in order to get her 5 year old out of the store before she gets too bored. We went to a nearby mall and spent a few minutes in Papaya, the store where I surmise some costume designer purchased all of the clothes for High School Musicals 2 and 3.
Then we went to Charlotte Russe.
This is one of my favorite stores, and as it turns out it's one of Michelle's favorites too! As we walked in, a really tiny, young, British woman greeted us with "Welcome to Charlotte. What are you looking for today?" I said I was interested in new jeans, she introduced herself as Ann Marie, and I started looking around. A few minutes later, Ann Marie came back with a few pair of jeans for me to look at! She grabbed her favorites, and had guessed my size: "You're a 3 right?" Uh, no, I'm not, especially since Charlotte Russe runs smaller than most stores, but I pretty much loved her from that moment on! Michelle and I spent 2 hours there, bought a ton of stuff I'm really excited about, discovered the 80s are back (the horror!), and had a lot of fun. I even asked to get a photo with Ann Marie, which her manager said was okay. I got the feeling Michelle and I had become a little notorious, because we'd been there so long and so many of the associates had helped us out. Good times!
Jill joined us for a late showing of Bride Wars, the only time we saw her that day! We were pretty glad she had Saturday and Sunday off so we could actually spend some time with her!
Saturday morning we ate crepes and watched General Conference with the pagent angels (sounds exclusive, don't it?), and during the afternoon we watched at Jill's house with her darling and hilarious roommates, Dawn and Erin.
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That night we joined the pagent angels to support one of boys from the group as he performed in the Jester's improv troup. Dude, it was SO FUNNY, and it was an LDS group, so I didn't have to worry about naughty language or inuendo! I am always amazed at people who are good at improv, but each person in each skit cracked me up. My favorite may have been one where one guy picked up a hitchhiker who was actually ALL of the Muppet Babies (my idea). The driver was so confused as he tried to guess who the hitchhiker was, and the clues the hitchhiker gave him were brilliant! I haven't laughed that much in a long time. It was a great cap on the trip.
The next morning, we listened to the morning session of Conference as Michelle and I packed. We didn't get much sleep, but we had a lot of fun! Why are vacations never long enough?
So, I'm home again, happy and healthy and glad that I went. Sorry if this post was boring; the vacation was great!
My dear friend Michelle B. and I went to Mesa, AZ to visit our friend Jill who is in the Mesa Temple pagent. We're hoping she moves back here shortly, but we were happy to experience the sunshine and see where Jill's been living the entire winter!
.jpg)
This is the snowman I made on my balcony three days before flying to sunny Mesa, Arizona. I'd wanted to make a snowman all winter, but never got around to it. I was pretty excited to do it, since it seems the snow season is over. I'll miss my sweaters and beautiful boots, but looking forward to sandals and skirts!
As you can see, Mesa lived up to its desert-y reputation, complete with cacti, sand landscape art instead of grass, and... palm trees? Okay, those were a little weird. I did not remember palm trees in Arizona when I served my mission there. But seeing as it was 78 degrees when we landed and there wasn't a cloud in sight I chose not to quibble about it.
We happened to arrive for the pagent's opening night! Since we had to drop Jill off to get ready for the show, Michelle and I were early enough to find phenomenal seats -- about 20th row center. We sat by some really kind and chatty elderly couples who were more than willing to share their life stories with us.
The pagent was amazing! I'd never been to one before. This one outlined the Savior's life and mission. I was really impressed with the cast, and totally blown away by the finale. It was so cool! Jill played one of the angels, and looked so at peace as she sang and danced. I video taped one of the scenes for her; sadly, none of the photos I took during the show turned out. Shoot!
After the play, Jill, Michelle and I joined the rest of the angels at Bahama Bucks for shaved ice with cream at Bahama Bucks. We're coming up on snow cone weather! Anyone else up for Snowasis on Memorial Day?
.jpg)
Michelle and I did almost nothing on Thursday while Jill was at work, and we were pretty content with that. We did meet Jill and Joel (a friend we met on the cruise last year) for dinner before Jill had to dash off to the pagent. Michelle, Joel and I went to Tempe and walked along the Tempe Lake/resevoir dealie,.jpg)
and then explored the Tempe Arts Centre. Turns out Kareoke night had been the night before. Rats! We also looked in some of the shops, where Michelle tried on hats, and I bought a cute top I'm excited to wear when the weather at home finally becomes warm!
.jpg)
Friday was a bit more productive. Michelle and I had lunch at In-N-Out Burger (yum!) before heading to Quality Nails for a pedicure. Thanks again for the recommendation, Jill! They had so many designs I had trouble choosing, but I settled for a pearly pink they painted PLAID ON EACH TOE! (Of course, this is useless at home since it's too cold for sandals, but I know how pretty my nails are!).jpg)
The massage chairs were heaven, too. I'd really needed one, and we never had the chance for a massage from a masseuse (ma-sewer? no idea what they're really called. Sorry masseuse friends!).Then Michelle and I went shopping! Now, those of you who know me know I don't love shopping under normal circumstances. But I was on vacation, and Michelle was so excited to shop! She's a single mom, so normally she has to hurry in order to get her 5 year old out of the store before she gets too bored. We went to a nearby mall and spent a few minutes in Papaya, the store where I surmise some costume designer purchased all of the clothes for High School Musicals 2 and 3.
Then we went to Charlotte Russe.
This is one of my favorite stores, and as it turns out it's one of Michelle's favorites too! As we walked in, a really tiny, young, British woman greeted us with "Welcome to Charlotte. What are you looking for today?" I said I was interested in new jeans, she introduced herself as Ann Marie, and I started looking around. A few minutes later, Ann Marie came back with a few pair of jeans for me to look at! She grabbed her favorites, and had guessed my size: "You're a 3 right?" Uh, no, I'm not, especially since Charlotte Russe runs smaller than most stores, but I pretty much loved her from that moment on! Michelle and I spent 2 hours there, bought a ton of stuff I'm really excited about, discovered the 80s are back (the horror!), and had a lot of fun. I even asked to get a photo with Ann Marie, which her manager said was okay. I got the feeling Michelle and I had become a little notorious, because we'd been there so long and so many of the associates had helped us out. Good times!
Jill joined us for a late showing of Bride Wars, the only time we saw her that day! We were pretty glad she had Saturday and Sunday off so we could actually spend some time with her!
Saturday morning we ate crepes and watched General Conference with the pagent angels (sounds exclusive, don't it?), and during the afternoon we watched at Jill's house with her darling and hilarious roommates, Dawn and Erin.
.jpg)
That night we joined the pagent angels to support one of boys from the group as he performed in the Jester's improv troup. Dude, it was SO FUNNY, and it was an LDS group, so I didn't have to worry about naughty language or inuendo! I am always amazed at people who are good at improv, but each person in each skit cracked me up. My favorite may have been one where one guy picked up a hitchhiker who was actually ALL of the Muppet Babies (my idea). The driver was so confused as he tried to guess who the hitchhiker was, and the clues the hitchhiker gave him were brilliant! I haven't laughed that much in a long time. It was a great cap on the trip.
The next morning, we listened to the morning session of Conference as Michelle and I packed. We didn't get much sleep, but we had a lot of fun! Why are vacations never long enough?
So, I'm home again, happy and healthy and glad that I went. Sorry if this post was boring; the vacation was great!
Friday, April 10
Thursday, April 9
Calling on Some Friends
Last night, I decided to forgo my usual Wednesday t.v. watching and visit with some friends for a change. Since she's on bedrest until her baby is born and I'm not much of a cook, I've been loaning my LOST DVDs to Stephanie M. She'd never watched the show, but she loves it now! I'm kind of jealous she hasn't had to wait 5 years like I have to find out what's going on, but I'm really just glad that she has something to do during some of her sitting around time.
I stopped by her house yesterday after work to drop off season 3, and we and her kids just ended up chatting for a couple of hours. It was nice! She even showed me little Peanut's nursery! It's a cute room; she has a bajillion baby blankets. While I was in there, Stephanie stepped out for a minute, and I had a mini-conversation with her youngest son, Wakko, about how nice his mom is. He started it. I wonder if Stephanie knows how much he likes her. As it is, I think she was a bit confused when she came back in and Wakko thanked her for teaching him how to be healthy. It didn't make a lot of sense out of context.
Stephanie's daughter Dot made me cookies (I think to thank me for bringing LOST into their lives). If you ever get a chance to try her Death by Chocolate cookies DO IT! I ate two at their house, and three more when I got home. I seriously considered eating more before bed. Yeah, they're that good. Thanks again Dot!
Before I forget: Mandee, will you email me the recipie for the dish you took to Stephanie's family last night? Hope you don't mind they shared with me. It was tasty! I love Mexican food.
I left the house about the time the newest episode of LOST was supposed to be on, but I couldn't resist stopping by Emily H's house, since she's just down the road from Stephanie, and I adore her. I worried I might interrupt her putting her kids to bed, so I called first. Turns out the kids were already in bed, so I got to spend an hour with Emily, catching up and laughing together. She and her husband are expecting a baby boy and are still looking for names so I suggested a bunch -- some more serious than others. I'm glad I don't have to name a person anytime soon. That just seems like a lot of responsibility. There are so many factors involved!
Then I went home, ate more cookies, and watched LOST on DVR. It was a good night!
Thanks Stephanie and your family and Emily for letting me interrupt your evening. I enjoyed spending time with you and plan to bug you again soon!
I stopped by her house yesterday after work to drop off season 3, and we and her kids just ended up chatting for a couple of hours. It was nice! She even showed me little Peanut's nursery! It's a cute room; she has a bajillion baby blankets. While I was in there, Stephanie stepped out for a minute, and I had a mini-conversation with her youngest son, Wakko, about how nice his mom is. He started it. I wonder if Stephanie knows how much he likes her. As it is, I think she was a bit confused when she came back in and Wakko thanked her for teaching him how to be healthy. It didn't make a lot of sense out of context.
Stephanie's daughter Dot made me cookies (I think to thank me for bringing LOST into their lives). If you ever get a chance to try her Death by Chocolate cookies DO IT! I ate two at their house, and three more when I got home. I seriously considered eating more before bed. Yeah, they're that good. Thanks again Dot!
Before I forget: Mandee, will you email me the recipie for the dish you took to Stephanie's family last night? Hope you don't mind they shared with me. It was tasty! I love Mexican food.
I left the house about the time the newest episode of LOST was supposed to be on, but I couldn't resist stopping by Emily H's house, since she's just down the road from Stephanie, and I adore her. I worried I might interrupt her putting her kids to bed, so I called first. Turns out the kids were already in bed, so I got to spend an hour with Emily, catching up and laughing together. She and her husband are expecting a baby boy and are still looking for names so I suggested a bunch -- some more serious than others. I'm glad I don't have to name a person anytime soon. That just seems like a lot of responsibility. There are so many factors involved!
Then I went home, ate more cookies, and watched LOST on DVR. It was a good night!
Thanks Stephanie and your family and Emily for letting me interrupt your evening. I enjoyed spending time with you and plan to bug you again soon!
Wednesday, April 8
Auditions Galore
Well, I wasn't cast in Oklahoma, and I didn't get called back for Hello Dolly at Hale. Although I am disappointed about both, I can say with complete honesty I'm not surprised about Hello Dolly, and I'm not angry about Oklahoma. I got to see good friends, had another excuse to sing and feel satisfied with my performances, and made a choice to DO something rather than mope about my condo wishing I had an exciting life! Yay me!
Besides, I am looking forward to the Seussical callback next week! I've had the beginning of Dr. Seuss's "The Sneetches" memorized for quite some time 'cause I love the story, and I loved sharing it with the group at the audition. I have my fingers crossed.
Meanwhile, congratulations to all the friends who were cast! I have no doubt you and the plays will be fantastic! Good luck, my darlings!
Besides, I am looking forward to the Seussical callback next week! I've had the beginning of Dr. Seuss's "The Sneetches" memorized for quite some time 'cause I love the story, and I loved sharing it with the group at the audition. I have my fingers crossed.
Meanwhile, congratulations to all the friends who were cast! I have no doubt you and the plays will be fantastic! Good luck, my darlings!
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