Who says beggars can't be choosers? Heck yeah they can! It's only self-righteous meanies who say otherwise. There is always a choice.
Always.
For example, a child asks for a snack and his mother says "Have an apple. They're on the counter." If the child doesn't want the apple, he can choose not to eat. It's a tough choice, but it can be made. I've done it.
Another example, a man dying of thirst can only find vinegar to drink. He can choose not to drink the vinegar.
Final example, a woman does not have to accept a third date with an incompatible guy just because he's the only non-set-up she's had in four months. She can choose to remain single for awhile longer (or forever) if necessary.
Beggars can be as choosy as they please. Besides, I always kind of felt like people who say "Beggars can't be choosers" kind of imply that they aren't choosy enough.
Defensive much? Yes. Yes I am. Stop telling me that I make bad choices. I beat myself up enough as it is. I don't need others "helping" me in that regard!
I'll keep making the best choices that I can, and hope they lead me to where I want to be. That's all I can do!
Wednesday, April 28
Reliving Theatre Memories
Eleven summers ago: The Three Musketeers
Eight summers ago: The Princess and the Pea
Seven summers ago: The Twelve Dancing Princesses
Six summers ago: 42nd Street
Five summers ago: Oklahoma
Four summers ago: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
Three summers ago: Brigadoon
Two summers ago: Bye Bye Birdie
In the last week, I've been given videos of two of these plays and I've been watching them with joy, relishing in the memories that sprang up more quickly than I could have believed! How I wish I had videos of all of these plays and all of the others I have participated in over the years! They sure were fun. There are so many I still want to do, and even a bunch I would love to do again. I am so blessed to live in a community that has so many opportunities to perform, and that I have the talent to be cast once in awhile!
Eight summers ago: The Princess and the Pea
Seven summers ago: The Twelve Dancing Princesses
Six summers ago: 42nd Street
Five summers ago: Oklahoma
Four summers ago: A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum
Three summers ago: Brigadoon
Two summers ago: Bye Bye Birdie
In the last week, I've been given videos of two of these plays and I've been watching them with joy, relishing in the memories that sprang up more quickly than I could have believed! How I wish I had videos of all of these plays and all of the others I have participated in over the years! They sure were fun. There are so many I still want to do, and even a bunch I would love to do again. I am so blessed to live in a community that has so many opportunities to perform, and that I have the talent to be cast once in awhile!
Saturday, April 24
Honeymoon Phase of Rehearsals
I am utterly, totally, and completely infatuated with Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.
I was terrified at the beginning. I usually hate the first couple of rehearsals, 'cause I am always so nervous around strangers, and I don't like starting out not knowing everything -- choreography and stuff. I want to be good, and I want to be comfortable right away! With this show, I came into it not knowing a single person in the production team or the cast. It's been three years since I did that, and this time I was coming in as the lead.
I sat in the back at the first rehearsal, and was embarrassed to admit I was Milly, because I was afraid someone would think, "She's playing Milly? Really? We're in trouble!" The music director, Harli, played some of the music, and when she got to "Wonderful Day" I had a hard time not crying with disbelief and delight -- I still can't believe I get to sing that song! And all of the rest of them!
Then came my next rehearsal and I was terrified again. I was going to be working with the brothers on "Goin' Courtin'." What if I didn't get along with the boys? What if they weren't any good? Well, that fear was abolished right away. Those men are hilarious and crazy! They laugh and play and tease -- it was their second rehearsal and they already had such great chemistry with each other. They were really nice to me, but I didn't quite feel like part of the club. I'll have to relax and weasel my way in there somehow!
We spent two rehearsals on "Goin' Courtin'" and during the second rehearsal, I was singing the song and looked to my right, and suddenly realized that three of the boys were staring at me. The three on the other side were too, of course. And I felt so intimidated as I realized I was singing this song and they were looking at me! That's when it hit me: I'm the lead!! (I wondered when that would happen). They are looking to me to help make this show great, and they are doing everything they can, too. Boy, are those guys talented! And they work so hard and are so patient. I stressed myself out with one of the lifts and was horrified when I started to cry but they were so cute about it. We're in this together, and they made me promise to let them know when I'm overwhelmed. We learned all but the last thirty seconds of the song, dance, and preceding scene. The only reason we couldn't finish was that I had to leave early. I can't wait to see what they did while I was gone.
My next rehearsal was just for me. I met the Harli, director Denise, and the accompanist at Harli's house, and we went through all of my songs. I have two that are just me, three more where I am the principal singer, and three that I sing with Adam, my husband. I must say, that rehearsal was such a huge boost for my ego! I thanked them all for taking a chance on someone they didn't know, and Denise said that I just kept doing "Milly" things during the callback -- of course she had to give me the part! As I sang the songs, I thought, "People ask me if I sing, and I usually say something shy like 'A little.'" Guess it's silly to say that. I do sing. I love to sing, and I do it pretty well. With every song that comes up I think something like "Oh no! It's too low. I can't sing that." But then I just open my mouth and do just fine. Milly's songs are so gorgeous and so different; I can't pick a favorite! I am honored to sing them and hope I do them justice.
And then came the rehearsal with all of the other brides as we learned "Wonderful Day." Then I was worried because girls are sooo much cattier than boys. But we all hit it off right away. If I'm not a part of the boys' club, I am definitely part of the girls'. They are just darling, and, again, so talented! We are driving choreographer Dani crazy 'cause we're even more chatty and out-there than the boys! While at Disneyland, I started thinking about the girls doing some of the initial choreography and I started laughing uncontrollably... how I love my stage-sisters! We got to try on some costumes on Saturday and we loved helping each other get dressed and admiring each other. I am relieved I get to wear blue, instead of yellow or orange. Why do so many directors want to put me in yellow or orange? I look good in blue!
Saturday morning was my last "honeymoon" rehearsal: the first time working one-on-one with my stage husband. Denise asked if we had any questions or concerns, and I said I was nervous. Brett joked, "Why? Because we're about to suck face?" I must have blushed totally crimson, because that's what I do. But for some reason I felt better! I reassured them I'd be fine, just first rehearsals make me nervous. We got to know each other and worked through all of our scenes. He is such a nice guy. Brett is going to be fun to work with. Easy-going and he's put a lot of thought into his own character and the relationship with mine. We have a nice chemistry, too. His girlfriend came by a bit later and now she knows I'm not a threat. Hooray!
Now I have nothing to worry about... except memorizing my lines, and learning the rest of the songs, blocking, and choreography, and remembering to put the right character's name with the right actor (I'm already calling Frank "Caleb" -- Ack!).
No problem at all! ;)
Next week I don't have any rehearsals, and I am worried I may go into withdrawls or something. Denise invited me to just come and hang out if I want to. For the sake of my sanity, it may be necessary.
I love this play! Love! Love! Love!
I was terrified at the beginning. I usually hate the first couple of rehearsals, 'cause I am always so nervous around strangers, and I don't like starting out not knowing everything -- choreography and stuff. I want to be good, and I want to be comfortable right away! With this show, I came into it not knowing a single person in the production team or the cast. It's been three years since I did that, and this time I was coming in as the lead.
I sat in the back at the first rehearsal, and was embarrassed to admit I was Milly, because I was afraid someone would think, "She's playing Milly? Really? We're in trouble!" The music director, Harli, played some of the music, and when she got to "Wonderful Day" I had a hard time not crying with disbelief and delight -- I still can't believe I get to sing that song! And all of the rest of them!
Then came my next rehearsal and I was terrified again. I was going to be working with the brothers on "Goin' Courtin'." What if I didn't get along with the boys? What if they weren't any good? Well, that fear was abolished right away. Those men are hilarious and crazy! They laugh and play and tease -- it was their second rehearsal and they already had such great chemistry with each other. They were really nice to me, but I didn't quite feel like part of the club. I'll have to relax and weasel my way in there somehow!
We spent two rehearsals on "Goin' Courtin'" and during the second rehearsal, I was singing the song and looked to my right, and suddenly realized that three of the boys were staring at me. The three on the other side were too, of course. And I felt so intimidated as I realized I was singing this song and they were looking at me! That's when it hit me: I'm the lead!! (I wondered when that would happen). They are looking to me to help make this show great, and they are doing everything they can, too. Boy, are those guys talented! And they work so hard and are so patient. I stressed myself out with one of the lifts and was horrified when I started to cry but they were so cute about it. We're in this together, and they made me promise to let them know when I'm overwhelmed. We learned all but the last thirty seconds of the song, dance, and preceding scene. The only reason we couldn't finish was that I had to leave early. I can't wait to see what they did while I was gone.
My next rehearsal was just for me. I met the Harli, director Denise, and the accompanist at Harli's house, and we went through all of my songs. I have two that are just me, three more where I am the principal singer, and three that I sing with Adam, my husband. I must say, that rehearsal was such a huge boost for my ego! I thanked them all for taking a chance on someone they didn't know, and Denise said that I just kept doing "Milly" things during the callback -- of course she had to give me the part! As I sang the songs, I thought, "People ask me if I sing, and I usually say something shy like 'A little.'" Guess it's silly to say that. I do sing. I love to sing, and I do it pretty well. With every song that comes up I think something like "Oh no! It's too low. I can't sing that." But then I just open my mouth and do just fine. Milly's songs are so gorgeous and so different; I can't pick a favorite! I am honored to sing them and hope I do them justice.
And then came the rehearsal with all of the other brides as we learned "Wonderful Day." Then I was worried because girls are sooo much cattier than boys. But we all hit it off right away. If I'm not a part of the boys' club, I am definitely part of the girls'. They are just darling, and, again, so talented! We are driving choreographer Dani crazy 'cause we're even more chatty and out-there than the boys! While at Disneyland, I started thinking about the girls doing some of the initial choreography and I started laughing uncontrollably... how I love my stage-sisters! We got to try on some costumes on Saturday and we loved helping each other get dressed and admiring each other. I am relieved I get to wear blue, instead of yellow or orange. Why do so many directors want to put me in yellow or orange? I look good in blue!
Saturday morning was my last "honeymoon" rehearsal: the first time working one-on-one with my stage husband. Denise asked if we had any questions or concerns, and I said I was nervous. Brett joked, "Why? Because we're about to suck face?" I must have blushed totally crimson, because that's what I do. But for some reason I felt better! I reassured them I'd be fine, just first rehearsals make me nervous. We got to know each other and worked through all of our scenes. He is such a nice guy. Brett is going to be fun to work with. Easy-going and he's put a lot of thought into his own character and the relationship with mine. We have a nice chemistry, too. His girlfriend came by a bit later and now she knows I'm not a threat. Hooray!
Now I have nothing to worry about... except memorizing my lines, and learning the rest of the songs, blocking, and choreography, and remembering to put the right character's name with the right actor (I'm already calling Frank "Caleb" -- Ack!).
No problem at all! ;)
Next week I don't have any rehearsals, and I am worried I may go into withdrawls or something. Denise invited me to just come and hang out if I want to. For the sake of my sanity, it may be necessary.
I love this play! Love! Love! Love!
Thursday, April 22
Anne-isms
I just finished reading Anne of Green Gables for the first time, and I absolutely loved it. I can't wait to read all of the rest of them. This is not my first introduction to Anne Shirley. I've seen the movies dozens of time, and played Ruby Gillis in a play version of Anne of Avonlea, and Anne of the Island is one of my favorite books. But I've never actually read that first book.
The little Anne-girl has bewitched me, just as she has so many other girls. No wonder the books are so popular. I already want to be more like her when I grow up... even though she's only eleven years old at the start! She is so quotable and optimistic! I couldn't resist grabbing a highlighter and marking up my paperback copy.
And now, for my favorite quotes so far:
"People laugh at me because I use big words. But if you have big ideas you have to use big words to express them, haven't you?"
"It's been my experience that you can nearly always enjoy things if you make up your mind firmly that you will. Of course, you must make it up firmly."
"When the Lord puts us in certain circumstances He doesn't mean for us to imagine them away." - Marilla
"Oh, what I know of myself isn't really worth telling. If you'll only let me tell you what I imagine about myself you'll think it ever so much more interesting."
"There's such a difference between saying a thing yourself and hearing other people say it. You may know a thing is so, but you can't help hoping other people don't quite think it is."
"Looking forward to things is half the pleasure of them. You mayn't get the things themselves; but nothing can prevent you from having the fun of looking forward to them."
"Kindred spirits are not so scarce as I used to think. It's splendid to find out there are so many of them in the world."
"Isn't it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet?"
"You'll hardly fail completely in one day and there's plenty more days coming." - Marilla
"That seems too good to be true -- but it's something pleasant to imagine after you go to bed."
"Have you ever noticed that when people say it's their duty to tell you a certain thing you may prepare for something disagreeable? Why is it that they never seem to think it a duty to tell you the pleasant things they hear about you?"
"I'd like to add some beauty to life... I'd love to make them have a pleasanter time because of me... to have some little joy or happy thought that would never have existed if I hadn't been born."
The little Anne-girl has bewitched me, just as she has so many other girls. No wonder the books are so popular. I already want to be more like her when I grow up... even though she's only eleven years old at the start! She is so quotable and optimistic! I couldn't resist grabbing a highlighter and marking up my paperback copy.
And now, for my favorite quotes so far:
"People laugh at me because I use big words. But if you have big ideas you have to use big words to express them, haven't you?"
"It's been my experience that you can nearly always enjoy things if you make up your mind firmly that you will. Of course, you must make it up firmly."
"When the Lord puts us in certain circumstances He doesn't mean for us to imagine them away." - Marilla
"Oh, what I know of myself isn't really worth telling. If you'll only let me tell you what I imagine about myself you'll think it ever so much more interesting."
"There's such a difference between saying a thing yourself and hearing other people say it. You may know a thing is so, but you can't help hoping other people don't quite think it is."
"Looking forward to things is half the pleasure of them. You mayn't get the things themselves; but nothing can prevent you from having the fun of looking forward to them."
"Kindred spirits are not so scarce as I used to think. It's splendid to find out there are so many of them in the world."
"Isn't it nice to think that tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet?"
"You'll hardly fail completely in one day and there's plenty more days coming." - Marilla
"That seems too good to be true -- but it's something pleasant to imagine after you go to bed."
"Have you ever noticed that when people say it's their duty to tell you a certain thing you may prepare for something disagreeable? Why is it that they never seem to think it a duty to tell you the pleasant things they hear about you?"
"I'd like to add some beauty to life... I'd love to make them have a pleasanter time because of me... to have some little joy or happy thought that would never have existed if I hadn't been born."
Monday, April 19
Cool with Being Uncool
Every time I walk into the store Hot Topic, I remember that I'm not a teenager anymore. I am so very uncool in my bland, grown-up, I-work-a-desk-job clothes. I ignore the awful music, buy one or two of the less wacky things in the store, and chat with the workers who dress all intimidating and trendy but are so nice. Then I leave the store and wear the clothes I bought in a preppy way that would probably make the original designers cringe. But I like to think the cute clothes I bought at the trendy Hot Topic make me a little more edgy and I forget for awhile that I'm not even in my twenties anymore. I'm not old... I'm just not a teenager anymore.
I no longer need to be cool or to fit in.
Thank goodness.
I no longer need to be cool or to fit in.
Thank goodness.
1st Day
Started my new, full-time job today! It went pretty well, especially since I didn't allow myself to have any expectations starting out! My manager introduced me around and helped me get situated. I have a cubicle with a window! The view is of the roof, but it's still enough to see that it's sunny outside :) I spent most of the day setting up my computer, and will continue to do the same tomorrow. They'll give me a few weeks to get to know the software and the company before they start giving me stuff to write about. Apparently they have a lot for me to do! Everyone was glad to have me there and they are excited for the documentation. I was surprised and a little disappointed to learn that I'm the only technical writer working out of that office; the others are located around the globe -- back East, London, Canada, India, etc. Still, the people in the office are friendly and it's a nice location. I'm right next to my favorite shopping center! I took a walk during lunch and I loved it. My manager joked at the end of the day that he'd see me tomorrow unless they'd scared me away. I smiled and shook my head. Of course I'll be back! I'm excited to see what happens! Everything's new, but I have plenty to do. It's lovely to be useful and wanted!
Sunday, April 18
Single Rider Ticket
I learned this week that being a Single Rider at Disneyland completely ROCKS!!
A couple of months ago, I sort of made a plan in my mind that when I got a full-time job, I'd celebrate by going to Disneyland before starting -- sort of a "last vacation before being tied down again" idea. Well, I got the new job, and two weeks to kill between the contract job and the new one, so I decided to make it a reality.
I invited a bunch of friends, but because the trip was so last minute, and in the middle of the week, and expensive, none of them could come. I decided to go anyway. Why not?
Turns out, Disneyland is fun even if you go alone. This is just another one of the many reasons why it is billed as the "Happiest Place on Earth."
I flew in Thursday afternoon and dropped my stuff off at my hotel room. Speaking of, my hotel room was awesome! The hotel was across the street from the park, and with my brother's employee discount I got a great room for really, really cheap. And now I want to travel more often and live in hotel rooms.
But I digress. I was at Disneyland by 4pm and was surprised and thrilled to find that Mickey was waiting right inside the gates. Mickey was pretty stoked that we were wearing matching colors (I am very impressed by those actors' abilities to mime whatever they want to say with no words or facial expressions). Hooray for Mickey!
Unfortunately, I forgot to pick up a map, but I didn't really mind wandering around the park. I started with the Disney Railroad attraction, and rode to New Orleans Square. I literally walked right onto the Haunted Mansion ride. I thought of my character in the Secret Garden and wished I could take a picture of the last ghost "Hurry back!" because that was always my joke with the director. I didn't want to be that creepy ghost! I next went on Pirates of the Caribbean before I discovered the beautiful, beautiful, perq to going to Disneyland alone:
With this ticket, I was allowed to walk up the exit, and practically walk onto the ride. It was faster than even the Fast Pass. I could make some comment about my being lumped into the same group as the handicapped riders, but I talked with some of them, and we all agreed it was good to have an excuse to go right to the front of the line! Hooray for being single at Disneyland!
They only offer this option on the Indiana Jones Adventure and Splash Mountain at Disneyland, and Soarin' Over Calfornia and California Screamin' -- the two best rides at California Adventure. Sa-weeeeeeet!
The only roller coaster I rode on was Thunder Mountain Railroad, and that was because the line was so short. I wandered around and looked at shops and rode on a couple random rides. I think It's a Small World is one of my new favorites -- I like that they added a Southwest America space! Finally my culture is represented at Disneyland! (What? I like cowboys... even if I'm not technically a cowgirl.)
Before I left on the trip, I contacted a friend of mine who lives in California, Stanley, and asked if he'd like to join me at the park or go to dinner or something. We met up at Downtown Disney (just outside the park) and ate at a really yummy cajun restaurant called the Jazz Kitchen. Stanley and I have known each other since I was about 6 and he was 4, and it was nice to catch up and talk about whatever came to mind. Turns out he, too, recently lost his job. It's kind of amazing to me how many of my friends have gone through this lately. When I expressed sympathy he said, "Why does everyone always assume it's a bad thing? I was miserable at my old job!" He's been at his new firm for a month and loves is. It made me hopeful that I'll love my new job, too!
This photo below is of a restaurant in front of my hotel. I just thought it was funny, because I"m playing Milly in 7 Brides and she's a cook...
I decided to start Friday morning doing all of the roller coasters. I was at the park by 8:30am and ran to Space Mountain, where there was practically no line! It is my FAVORITE RIDE!!! I nearly started crying when it got to the triumphal music at the end. I would have gone again right away, but was afraid I would hit long lines at the other coasters, so I grabbed a fast pass so I could walk on later in the day. I walked onto Thunder Mountain Railroad, and then made my way to Splash Mountain.
There was literally NO ONE over there! No line at all. The six or seven logs in front of mine were all empty, and I had my log all to myself. Even if I had known about the Single Rider option on that ride when I went it would not have been necessary. This was me before I went over the big waterfall:
This is me after:
Turns out, you still get wet, even if you're the only person in the log. Phooey! I was thinking I didn't especially need to go again, and then I got to the place where you debark. The line was still so meager the attendant asked if I wanted to go again. I said, "Sure!" Why not? How often do you get to go a second time without even having to get off the first time? This is what I looked like after the second time:
Of course, I had to see the Captain Eo tribute. It felt so good to see the movie again in its original 3D! I was distracted by the weird "flight simulator" stuff rocking the theatre during the big dance sequence, but it the movie was still awesome. Michael Jackson was definitely a great performer.
The second time I went on Space Mountain, I asked to sit in the front of the front car. I love it, because there is no one in front of me, and I can pretend I'm all alone flying through space. Seriously, it's the BEST RIDE EVER!
After Space Mountain, I still had about three hours before I had to grab my stuff at the hotel and catch a ride to the airport. So, I decided to make an extremely brief trip to California Adventure. I started with Soarin' Over California, then wandered over to Mike and Sully's wacky ride, where I ran into Goofy's son, Max. He got all bashful when I asked to take a photo -- it was cute! I'm always a hit with teenage boys :) Goofy himself walked away when my turn for a photo came. Humph!
I next went over to California Screamin' which is a GREAT roller coaster! I took advantage of the Single Rider ticket and went twice in a row, again not having to wait in line for more than a minute. Hooray!
I finished up on the Tower of Terror, and was waaay more surprised and entertained than I remember. I think I've only been on that one two or three times in my life. It could become a favorite, too! I'd recommend it to thrill-seeking friends! Different than your average hydraulic-elevator ride.
Anyway, about that time I'd done everything I absolutely needed to, so I wandered through the shops and bought a few things, then lunched on a $12 burger, fries, and drink. I needed to go back to the hotel, but I wanted one last churro, so I walked back over to Disneyland where I knew there was a cart right inside the entrance. It was decadent of me, but I didn't care. I only had a few minutes left of my vacation and I wanted a churro!
Then I walked back to the hotel, grabbed my bag, and waited for the shuttle that took me to the airport. Just a two-day trip. It was a good one though! I'm so glad that I went, and glad there was so much to do! I may not want to go to Disneyland alone often, but it's nice to know I'd have fun if I did!
My new job starts tomorrow. I have no idea what to expect and I am trying not to think about it, lest I incapacitate myself and keep myself awake all night with nerves. Que sera, sera, right? ("What ever will be, will be. The future's not ours to see! Que sera, sera!")
A couple of months ago, I sort of made a plan in my mind that when I got a full-time job, I'd celebrate by going to Disneyland before starting -- sort of a "last vacation before being tied down again" idea. Well, I got the new job, and two weeks to kill between the contract job and the new one, so I decided to make it a reality.
I invited a bunch of friends, but because the trip was so last minute, and in the middle of the week, and expensive, none of them could come. I decided to go anyway. Why not?
Turns out, Disneyland is fun even if you go alone. This is just another one of the many reasons why it is billed as the "Happiest Place on Earth."
I flew in Thursday afternoon and dropped my stuff off at my hotel room. Speaking of, my hotel room was awesome! The hotel was across the street from the park, and with my brother's employee discount I got a great room for really, really cheap. And now I want to travel more often and live in hotel rooms.
But I digress. I was at Disneyland by 4pm and was surprised and thrilled to find that Mickey was waiting right inside the gates. Mickey was pretty stoked that we were wearing matching colors (I am very impressed by those actors' abilities to mime whatever they want to say with no words or facial expressions). Hooray for Mickey!
Unfortunately, I forgot to pick up a map, but I didn't really mind wandering around the park. I started with the Disney Railroad attraction, and rode to New Orleans Square. I literally walked right onto the Haunted Mansion ride. I thought of my character in the Secret Garden and wished I could take a picture of the last ghost "Hurry back!" because that was always my joke with the director. I didn't want to be that creepy ghost! I next went on Pirates of the Caribbean before I discovered the beautiful, beautiful, perq to going to Disneyland alone:
With this ticket, I was allowed to walk up the exit, and practically walk onto the ride. It was faster than even the Fast Pass. I could make some comment about my being lumped into the same group as the handicapped riders, but I talked with some of them, and we all agreed it was good to have an excuse to go right to the front of the line! Hooray for being single at Disneyland!
They only offer this option on the Indiana Jones Adventure and Splash Mountain at Disneyland, and Soarin' Over Calfornia and California Screamin' -- the two best rides at California Adventure. Sa-weeeeeeet!
The only roller coaster I rode on was Thunder Mountain Railroad, and that was because the line was so short. I wandered around and looked at shops and rode on a couple random rides. I think It's a Small World is one of my new favorites -- I like that they added a Southwest America space! Finally my culture is represented at Disneyland! (What? I like cowboys... even if I'm not technically a cowgirl.)
Before I left on the trip, I contacted a friend of mine who lives in California, Stanley, and asked if he'd like to join me at the park or go to dinner or something. We met up at Downtown Disney (just outside the park) and ate at a really yummy cajun restaurant called the Jazz Kitchen. Stanley and I have known each other since I was about 6 and he was 4, and it was nice to catch up and talk about whatever came to mind. Turns out he, too, recently lost his job. It's kind of amazing to me how many of my friends have gone through this lately. When I expressed sympathy he said, "Why does everyone always assume it's a bad thing? I was miserable at my old job!" He's been at his new firm for a month and loves is. It made me hopeful that I'll love my new job, too!
This photo below is of a restaurant in front of my hotel. I just thought it was funny, because I"m playing Milly in 7 Brides and she's a cook...
I decided to start Friday morning doing all of the roller coasters. I was at the park by 8:30am and ran to Space Mountain, where there was practically no line! It is my FAVORITE RIDE!!! I nearly started crying when it got to the triumphal music at the end. I would have gone again right away, but was afraid I would hit long lines at the other coasters, so I grabbed a fast pass so I could walk on later in the day. I walked onto Thunder Mountain Railroad, and then made my way to Splash Mountain.
There was literally NO ONE over there! No line at all. The six or seven logs in front of mine were all empty, and I had my log all to myself. Even if I had known about the Single Rider option on that ride when I went it would not have been necessary. This was me before I went over the big waterfall:
This is me after:
Turns out, you still get wet, even if you're the only person in the log. Phooey! I was thinking I didn't especially need to go again, and then I got to the place where you debark. The line was still so meager the attendant asked if I wanted to go again. I said, "Sure!" Why not? How often do you get to go a second time without even having to get off the first time? This is what I looked like after the second time:
Of course, I had to see the Captain Eo tribute. It felt so good to see the movie again in its original 3D! I was distracted by the weird "flight simulator" stuff rocking the theatre during the big dance sequence, but it the movie was still awesome. Michael Jackson was definitely a great performer.
The second time I went on Space Mountain, I asked to sit in the front of the front car. I love it, because there is no one in front of me, and I can pretend I'm all alone flying through space. Seriously, it's the BEST RIDE EVER!
After Space Mountain, I still had about three hours before I had to grab my stuff at the hotel and catch a ride to the airport. So, I decided to make an extremely brief trip to California Adventure. I started with Soarin' Over California, then wandered over to Mike and Sully's wacky ride, where I ran into Goofy's son, Max. He got all bashful when I asked to take a photo -- it was cute! I'm always a hit with teenage boys :) Goofy himself walked away when my turn for a photo came. Humph!
I next went over to California Screamin' which is a GREAT roller coaster! I took advantage of the Single Rider ticket and went twice in a row, again not having to wait in line for more than a minute. Hooray!
I finished up on the Tower of Terror, and was waaay more surprised and entertained than I remember. I think I've only been on that one two or three times in my life. It could become a favorite, too! I'd recommend it to thrill-seeking friends! Different than your average hydraulic-elevator ride.
Anyway, about that time I'd done everything I absolutely needed to, so I wandered through the shops and bought a few things, then lunched on a $12 burger, fries, and drink. I needed to go back to the hotel, but I wanted one last churro, so I walked back over to Disneyland where I knew there was a cart right inside the entrance. It was decadent of me, but I didn't care. I only had a few minutes left of my vacation and I wanted a churro!
Then I walked back to the hotel, grabbed my bag, and waited for the shuttle that took me to the airport. Just a two-day trip. It was a good one though! I'm so glad that I went, and glad there was so much to do! I may not want to go to Disneyland alone often, but it's nice to know I'd have fun if I did!
My new job starts tomorrow. I have no idea what to expect and I am trying not to think about it, lest I incapacitate myself and keep myself awake all night with nerves. Que sera, sera, right? ("What ever will be, will be. The future's not ours to see! Que sera, sera!")
Monday, April 12
Already Only a Memory
The Secret Garden closed on Saturday, and I already miss it... as per normal. I loved this group! Everybody was so different -- some really wacky, some quiet, some chatty -- and we meshed so well! I'm going to miss going to lunch inbetween shows, my fear of someone stepping on my train and ripping off my skirt (you can laugh, but I did step out of it once), watching Cameron/Colin cry backstage, listening to Lucy's stories in the dressing room, begging people to button my gloves, kissing Cameron in the hair so that I didn't leave ghost-lipstick on his face for most of the second act, sitting in the dark behind the stage, hoping that my performance didn't scare any little kids (I was a ghost, after all), playing with Cameron's hair, my one costume change from my "alive" leather gloves to my "dead" fancy gloves, staring longingly at my husband and son when they reunited at the end, "The lump! The lump!", helping Lucy with her costume changes, playing with Gibby the hamster, and willing hugs anytime I needed one.
Here are some photo memories of our fiercely awesome cast and show. It ended too soon!
Here are some photo memories of our fiercely awesome cast and show. It ended too soon!
Our freakishly talented lead actors. I am really excited to work with them again. Not only are they terrific actors, but they are hilarious, really nice people. Hopefully, our next project together won't involve me being invisible to all of the other characters... I'd love some onstage interaction with these kids.
Here our Mrs. Medlock is tying Colin's tie. I just love that it looks like she's choking him. Not that we'd blame her. The kid cried ALL the TIME (onstage, backstage... sure it was part of the show, but it was incessant)!
Backstage Babes. We decided to go out between shows one day while wearing part of our costumes (as shown in this picture). We took fliers for the show with us and even passed some of them out. No idea if any of the people we gave fliers to actually came, but we did run into some people who saw the show earlier that day. It's nice to get compliments from fans!
One of the reasons I love this photo is because I have one of my nieces making the same faces at each other; one yelling and one looking like "whoa! Chill out, doll!" Another reason is because these characters are soo different than the actresses playing them. Lucy is one of the nicest, most together, happiest people you've ever met, and Jessica is so strong and cool and wise. They ROCK!
I asked Ricky and Cameron for a "family" photo, and Ricky came up with this idea. Brilliant! Aren't we a pretty family? All that wonderful, curly hair!
I really, really loved this costume and character. There are worse things than having every other character describe you as a "sweet, pretty thing." As if I'm not already vain enough... :)
Cast photos -- which do you think reflects our personalities the most?
He's Just Not That Into Me
In the past four weeks, I have been asked some form of this question by at least 7 people:
"So... you and Calvin*... why aren't you dating?"
I can understand why they'd ask. Calvin and I are both single, good-looking, funny, smart, personable, and have some similar interests. We've been friends for several years, so why shouldn't we date?
Thinking about this question in my head is one thing. Trying to answer someone else's curiosity is quite another.
I should specify that all of the people who have asked are dear friends of mine. I have known them for years and years and I know they are only asking because they love me and they are truly stymied that Calvin and I are just friends. I am not offended by the question. They do not imply that there is anything wrong with me or my being single. I just never know how to answer these kinds of questions, especially since my loving friends are prone to place the "blame" on Calvin's side, and I don't want them to think badly of him. They wouldn't, but I don't want them to anyway.
There are plenty of reasons and possibilities. The main one is that Calvin has never asked me out. I've never asked Calvin the question, myself, so I can only guess. As far as I know, he's never thought about it (it's a wrench to my self-esteem, but it is possible). Or, he's just used to us being friends and likes it that way. Or, he's dating someone else. Or, he's just really busy. Or, I'm simply not his type. He's just not that into me.
Of course, I could ask him out. But, I always feel like Calvin holds me at arm's length, figuratively speaking, and though I have asked out men in this same friendship status before, it's never gone anywhere. I find that most men like to take the initiative. If they don't, it's because they're uber-shy or uninterested. They are flattered when I ask them out, but the reasons they didn't ask me out still apply. It's just the way it is.
I just think it's funny that SO MANY people in such a short period of time have all asked me about Calvin, in particular. I really, really hope they haven't asked him why he hasn't asked me out. I like my friendship with Calvin. I don't expect more and I don't want it to be awkward. I'm content.
This just makes me think of my friend Trudy*. She has been asked more times than she can count if she's ever thought about dating our mutual friend, Melvin*. The hard part is, she has a big crush on Melvin. She would date him in a minute. I know both of them really well and I know Trudy and Melvin would be fantastic together. I don't know why Melvin has never asked Trudy out. We know some of our friends have asked Melvin about it, but the fact remains that he has never asked her out. He might in the future, but until then, poor Trudy is having trouble moving on. She is distancing herself from him as much as she can, but it's hard on her. Poor Trudy. Poor Melvin. I hope they both find someone wonderful who loves them for who they are and will support them for forever.
Have you ever read the book, He's Just Not That Into You? It basically talks about how, in general, if a man is interested in a woman, he won't let anything get in the way of pursuing her. It was a demoralizing read in that if a guy is not interested, there's nothing I can do to make him ask me out. But, it was empowering in the realization that I am a great girl and I deserve a man who really wants me. A good guy that I am excited about, too. Chemistry is a difficult thing. It can't be forced.
It is flattering that my friends can't believe that I'm only friends with a terrific guy like Calvin. They believe that I deserve to be with someone wonderful, who will appreciate my quirks and awesomeness.
I believe I deserve that, too.
*Names have been changed.
"So... you and Calvin*... why aren't you dating?"
I can understand why they'd ask. Calvin and I are both single, good-looking, funny, smart, personable, and have some similar interests. We've been friends for several years, so why shouldn't we date?
Thinking about this question in my head is one thing. Trying to answer someone else's curiosity is quite another.
I should specify that all of the people who have asked are dear friends of mine. I have known them for years and years and I know they are only asking because they love me and they are truly stymied that Calvin and I are just friends. I am not offended by the question. They do not imply that there is anything wrong with me or my being single. I just never know how to answer these kinds of questions, especially since my loving friends are prone to place the "blame" on Calvin's side, and I don't want them to think badly of him. They wouldn't, but I don't want them to anyway.
There are plenty of reasons and possibilities. The main one is that Calvin has never asked me out. I've never asked Calvin the question, myself, so I can only guess. As far as I know, he's never thought about it (it's a wrench to my self-esteem, but it is possible). Or, he's just used to us being friends and likes it that way. Or, he's dating someone else. Or, he's just really busy. Or, I'm simply not his type. He's just not that into me.
Of course, I could ask him out. But, I always feel like Calvin holds me at arm's length, figuratively speaking, and though I have asked out men in this same friendship status before, it's never gone anywhere. I find that most men like to take the initiative. If they don't, it's because they're uber-shy or uninterested. They are flattered when I ask them out, but the reasons they didn't ask me out still apply. It's just the way it is.
I just think it's funny that SO MANY people in such a short period of time have all asked me about Calvin, in particular. I really, really hope they haven't asked him why he hasn't asked me out. I like my friendship with Calvin. I don't expect more and I don't want it to be awkward. I'm content.
This just makes me think of my friend Trudy*. She has been asked more times than she can count if she's ever thought about dating our mutual friend, Melvin*. The hard part is, she has a big crush on Melvin. She would date him in a minute. I know both of them really well and I know Trudy and Melvin would be fantastic together. I don't know why Melvin has never asked Trudy out. We know some of our friends have asked Melvin about it, but the fact remains that he has never asked her out. He might in the future, but until then, poor Trudy is having trouble moving on. She is distancing herself from him as much as she can, but it's hard on her. Poor Trudy. Poor Melvin. I hope they both find someone wonderful who loves them for who they are and will support them for forever.
Have you ever read the book, He's Just Not That Into You? It basically talks about how, in general, if a man is interested in a woman, he won't let anything get in the way of pursuing her. It was a demoralizing read in that if a guy is not interested, there's nothing I can do to make him ask me out. But, it was empowering in the realization that I am a great girl and I deserve a man who really wants me. A good guy that I am excited about, too. Chemistry is a difficult thing. It can't be forced.
It is flattering that my friends can't believe that I'm only friends with a terrific guy like Calvin. They believe that I deserve to be with someone wonderful, who will appreciate my quirks and awesomeness.
I believe I deserve that, too.
*Names have been changed.
Thursday, April 8
A Full-time Job
I have a full-time job! I start April 19!
I'll be working for another software company doing technical writing. They use a different writing process than I am used to, but that's pretty much par for the course. I am really excited to meet everyone and get to know the company and make myself useful long-term. I know I'm good at my job and it feels good to be wanted!
This means I had to give up the truely awesome contract gig only 3 1/2 weeks into the 4 month contract. That was crummy. I adored my coworkers, I felt confident about the work I was doing, I felt appreciated by the company, and the pay was great. I happened to get the last job I interviewed for before starting the contract job. I had warned them it might happened, so at least it didn't come out of nowhere, but I still feel guilty. They gave me a great job when I needed one, and I am forever grateful. If they had had a full-time job available, I would have taken it in a minute. Fortunately, they were able to find a replacement quickly, which means that yet another person found a good job during this rocky recession -- everybody wins! (Well, not everybody, but at least I and my replacement both do.)
I admit, I am slightly nervous that I won't like the new job as much as the contract job, but that's the risk I take for stability. There is no reason why I won't like it just as much if not more. I always freak out a little when I start something new. I will be nervous until my third day when I start remembering people's names and figure out of there's room in the fridge for my lunch.
A full-time job! Doing something I'm good at! For really good pay and benefits! And the office is at the Gateway which is one of my favorite places!
It feels good.
Since I do have some time before starting the new job, I'm making the most of it. I'm so busy! I cleaned my house, did my taxes, got my hair done, started learning the music and choreography for 7 Brides' "Goin' Courtin'", saw Alice in Wonderland again, saw some friends in The Tortoise and the Hare (a play that only runs weekday mornings), admired the brides at Salt Lake's Temple Square, and took a tour of the LDS Conference Center. Tomorrow, I have a lunch date and then perform in The Secret Garden, which closes THIS WEEKEND, by the way.
I have cabin fever! I can't stand the idea of just sitting at home all day, though it will probably be my last chance for several months -- at least until 7 Brides closes... unless I'm doing another show by that time, which is very possible.
I had hoped to go to Disneyland early next week, but it doesn't look like it's going to happen. Maybe I'll ask a friend in Idaho if I can visit her. I really like the idea of getting out of town. One last adventure before I settle down again.
It's been a crazy three months. I have been very blessed with a lot of support, unemployment checks, the contract job, the already-paid-for cruise, and no less than three plays to occupy my time when I had nothing else to do. I know that Heavenly Father has been watching out for me as I've figured things out. Thank you to everyone for your prayers, your positive thoughts, and your kind words. It may be trite to say, but I really could not have made it through without you. I cannot thank you enough.
Much love,
Meg
I'll be working for another software company doing technical writing. They use a different writing process than I am used to, but that's pretty much par for the course. I am really excited to meet everyone and get to know the company and make myself useful long-term. I know I'm good at my job and it feels good to be wanted!
This means I had to give up the truely awesome contract gig only 3 1/2 weeks into the 4 month contract. That was crummy. I adored my coworkers, I felt confident about the work I was doing, I felt appreciated by the company, and the pay was great. I happened to get the last job I interviewed for before starting the contract job. I had warned them it might happened, so at least it didn't come out of nowhere, but I still feel guilty. They gave me a great job when I needed one, and I am forever grateful. If they had had a full-time job available, I would have taken it in a minute. Fortunately, they were able to find a replacement quickly, which means that yet another person found a good job during this rocky recession -- everybody wins! (Well, not everybody, but at least I and my replacement both do.)
I admit, I am slightly nervous that I won't like the new job as much as the contract job, but that's the risk I take for stability. There is no reason why I won't like it just as much if not more. I always freak out a little when I start something new. I will be nervous until my third day when I start remembering people's names and figure out of there's room in the fridge for my lunch.
A full-time job! Doing something I'm good at! For really good pay and benefits! And the office is at the Gateway which is one of my favorite places!
It feels good.
Since I do have some time before starting the new job, I'm making the most of it. I'm so busy! I cleaned my house, did my taxes, got my hair done, started learning the music and choreography for 7 Brides' "Goin' Courtin'", saw Alice in Wonderland again, saw some friends in The Tortoise and the Hare (a play that only runs weekday mornings), admired the brides at Salt Lake's Temple Square, and took a tour of the LDS Conference Center. Tomorrow, I have a lunch date and then perform in The Secret Garden, which closes THIS WEEKEND, by the way.
I have cabin fever! I can't stand the idea of just sitting at home all day, though it will probably be my last chance for several months -- at least until 7 Brides closes... unless I'm doing another show by that time, which is very possible.
I had hoped to go to Disneyland early next week, but it doesn't look like it's going to happen. Maybe I'll ask a friend in Idaho if I can visit her. I really like the idea of getting out of town. One last adventure before I settle down again.
It's been a crazy three months. I have been very blessed with a lot of support, unemployment checks, the contract job, the already-paid-for cruise, and no less than three plays to occupy my time when I had nothing else to do. I know that Heavenly Father has been watching out for me as I've figured things out. Thank you to everyone for your prayers, your positive thoughts, and your kind words. It may be trite to say, but I really could not have made it through without you. I cannot thank you enough.
Much love,
Meg
A Subtle Difference
Before
After
There is a scene in the movie Beaches where C.C. and Hilary both dye their hair, and Hilary realizes that she spent two hours dying her hair the same color it was before. Well, I can see the difference the highlights make in my hair, but I will admit, it's pretty subtle. I am glad! I was really afraid I'd go to perform in the Victorian-era The Secret Garden on Friday and everyone would go "Whoa! What the heck did you do with your hair?!" No danger of that! Phew!
I like the change, and the accompanying trim was very needed after the havoc the dry air and static electricity played on my hair during the winter! I feel much more summery now!
After
There is a scene in the movie Beaches where C.C. and Hilary both dye their hair, and Hilary realizes that she spent two hours dying her hair the same color it was before. Well, I can see the difference the highlights make in my hair, but I will admit, it's pretty subtle. I am glad! I was really afraid I'd go to perform in the Victorian-era The Secret Garden on Friday and everyone would go "Whoa! What the heck did you do with your hair?!" No danger of that! Phew!
I like the change, and the accompanying trim was very needed after the havoc the dry air and static electricity played on my hair during the winter! I feel much more summery now!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)