Europe has taken over all of the American awards shows! Seriously, what does that say about our film actors this year? We weren't up to par!
I'm disappointed in myself because I ended up watching all one bagillion hours of the Academy Awards last night. I told myself I wasn't going to watch and instead I would do productive and fulfilling things like read, organize, memorize scripts, or write my own Oscar acceptance speech. Instead I ate too much cake and ice cream at Quinn's first birthday party (where I was wrestled to death by three year old, Piper). Then we got home late so we watched the DVR version of the Oscars. We sped through the "boring" awards and speeches, yet after two hours we still hadn't caught up with the live taping. BRUTAL! But I like John Stewart and I like making snarky comments about what people wear. So I should be satisfied.
Speaking of satisfied...Atonement DID NOT win for best picture!!! hahahahahahaha! Vengeance is mine! I didn't realize until last night that I had it out for this movie. I mean, what did this movie ever do to me? It just disappointed me. Blah story + blah characters + high expectations = bitter me. The one part I did love about the movie was the musical score. So congrats to them on winning an Oscar! Yay musical score!
Speaking of music...THREE CHEERS FOR ONCE!!! Seriously, Janell and I hugged when we saw them win their Oscar. FAVORITE SONG OF THE YEAR! I could listen to that album over and over again. And thank you John Stewart for bringing Marketa Irglova back out for her acceptance speech. It was the most inspiring and beautiful speech of the night!
Speaking of beautiful...Favorite dresses: Anne Hathaway, Katherine Heigl, Amy Adams, Jennifer Garner. I really didn't see that many of them. Worst dress: Sorry Julie Christy, loved your movie, not so much your dress.
Monday, February 25, 2008
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Smiling with Santa
I spent Saturday with my wonderful Aunt, Anna Mae, who we call Auntie. She said she had a little surprise for me. She remembered me blogging about me never having a smiling picture with Santa Claus. Well, she found one! Check it out!
I may be smiling but I have my hands ready to sock him one if he even looks in my direction. Thanks Auntie! Seriously, how cute are we? Don't you just want to scoop up my little sister and have a tea party with her?
The picture has the original laminated covering on it. There's a bright yellow sticker on the back that says "Prestonwood Town Center" on it. That mall is now bulldozed and became an office park. I took ice skating lessons there and they had the best corny-dog stand. That's right, I say CornY-Dog instead of Corn-Dog.
I also was just thinking the other day about the shirt I was wearing in this picture. It had silver thread woven through it. I loved that shirt.
I may be smiling but I have my hands ready to sock him one if he even looks in my direction. Thanks Auntie! Seriously, how cute are we? Don't you just want to scoop up my little sister and have a tea party with her?
The picture has the original laminated covering on it. There's a bright yellow sticker on the back that says "Prestonwood Town Center" on it. That mall is now bulldozed and became an office park. I took ice skating lessons there and they had the best corny-dog stand. That's right, I say CornY-Dog instead of Corn-Dog.
I also was just thinking the other day about the shirt I was wearing in this picture. It had silver thread woven through it. I loved that shirt.
goodreads.com
Christine just introduced me to something that just might transform my life: Good Reads. My mom calls me all the time wanting book suggestions. She reads faster than anyone I know. This website would be a goldmine for her. You can find your friends online and see what books they've read, what they recommend, and you can even write your own book review. For instance:
1) Harry Potter: Go read it now because you'll absolutely fall in love with it. You'll wish you had never read it so you can read it again for the first time.
2) The Da Vinci Code: OVERRATED!
Go and explore! And let me know if you're a member so we can trade favorites.
1) Harry Potter: Go read it now because you'll absolutely fall in love with it. You'll wish you had never read it so you can read it again for the first time.
2) The Da Vinci Code: OVERRATED!
Go and explore! And let me know if you're a member so we can trade favorites.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Stop, Collaborate and Listen
Two amay-mayzing things happening tonight:
1) Lunar Eclipse. I don't want to miss this one. It's a full lunar eclipse y'all. I'll take any chance I can get to howl at the moon and beat my chest (though not hard because I'm experiencing some tender warriors at the moment. Do I need to spell it out for you? Okay - PMS).
2) The Senate. We're performing tonight at The Playground (Halsted & Belmont) at 8:00 p.m. $10 and BYOB. Be there....and then go watch the lunar eclipse. I'm thinking the eclipse should be in full glory between 9:00 and 10:00 p.m. (central time).
1) Lunar Eclipse. I don't want to miss this one. It's a full lunar eclipse y'all. I'll take any chance I can get to howl at the moon and beat my chest (though not hard because I'm experiencing some tender warriors at the moment. Do I need to spell it out for you? Okay - PMS).
2) The Senate. We're performing tonight at The Playground (Halsted & Belmont) at 8:00 p.m. $10 and BYOB. Be there....and then go watch the lunar eclipse. I'm thinking the eclipse should be in full glory between 9:00 and 10:00 p.m. (central time).
While You Were Watching American Idol
Timely Combination:
8:47:29 p.m. - Stretching hamstrings on the floor while doing the middle splits with back against the couch all the while pointing out to my roommates how flexible I am, even at my age.
8:47:41 p.m. - Couch moving and scraping against the wood floor at the same time creating a timely "noise."
8:47:43 p.m. - Lots of pointing and laughing in my direction.
8:47:47 p.m. - Me swearing up and down THAT WASN'T ME!!!!!
IT WASN'T ME!
8:47:29 p.m. - Stretching hamstrings on the floor while doing the middle splits with back against the couch all the while pointing out to my roommates how flexible I am, even at my age.
8:47:41 p.m. - Couch moving and scraping against the wood floor at the same time creating a timely "noise."
8:47:43 p.m. - Lots of pointing and laughing in my direction.
8:47:47 p.m. - Me swearing up and down THAT WASN'T ME!!!!!
IT WASN'T ME!
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
DWTS Season 6
Most of you are familiar with the short-lived Dancing with the Stars addiction I had a couple of years ago. I realized after months of professional psychiatric evaluation that my addiction was mostly founded upon my love for all things Texas, aka. Emmitt Smith. Love him! (spoken with a sing-songy voice)
Well now there's a new pack of "Stars" ready to dance their way back into the spotlight. You can read the new list here. I'll just point out a couple of my favorites:
1. Kristi Yamaguchi: I wanted to be her! Did I ever mention I used to be an ice skater? Probably. I saw her once at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, GA. We were at the women's volleyball championship and she was sitting a few rows in front of me. She was gorgeous! And so tiny! Hated her. Kidding! I love you Kristi. Come over here and let me give you a hug!
2. Steve Guttenberg: What little girl didn't fall in love with the movie Three Men and a Baby? Police Academy defined "comedy" back in the 80's. He was the man. How come in the 80's, leading men looked like Steve Guttenberg and Michael Keaton? Now they have to look like Brad Pitt or Eric Bana. I mean, I'm not complaining. Somehow we all loved the geeky, funny guy. I still do. Sorry Brad Pitt. You're good to look at but can you make me laugh? You can? Well....whatever, you ruined my point.
and....I don't think I really am excited about any of the other dancers. Plus I refuse to get into the show. I have enough to think about with LOST (seriously, how amazing was Thursday's show?) and Project Runway.
Well now there's a new pack of "Stars" ready to dance their way back into the spotlight. You can read the new list here. I'll just point out a couple of my favorites:
1. Kristi Yamaguchi: I wanted to be her! Did I ever mention I used to be an ice skater? Probably. I saw her once at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, GA. We were at the women's volleyball championship and she was sitting a few rows in front of me. She was gorgeous! And so tiny! Hated her. Kidding! I love you Kristi. Come over here and let me give you a hug!
2. Steve Guttenberg: What little girl didn't fall in love with the movie Three Men and a Baby? Police Academy defined "comedy" back in the 80's. He was the man. How come in the 80's, leading men looked like Steve Guttenberg and Michael Keaton? Now they have to look like Brad Pitt or Eric Bana. I mean, I'm not complaining. Somehow we all loved the geeky, funny guy. I still do. Sorry Brad Pitt. You're good to look at but can you make me laugh? You can? Well....whatever, you ruined my point.
and....I don't think I really am excited about any of the other dancers. Plus I refuse to get into the show. I have enough to think about with LOST (seriously, how amazing was Thursday's show?) and Project Runway.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Happy Valentine's Day!
I'm sending my love to all of my favorite readers!...which basically means anyone who reads this blog. I hope each one of you has at least one person tell you today that they love you. If not, I love you. I'm sending you a viral hug. Squeeze!
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
When You Care to Send the Very Best
I had a fun surprise when I arrived at the office this morning. The girls were huddled around the reception desk and said that I had flowers! They said, "do you have a man we don't know about?" Girls, you don't even know! I saw that they were addressed to "Kathryn Orender." There's only one man out there who calls me Kathryn. I knew they were from my sweet dad! I knew it the second they said, "you have flowers!" Not even 30 minutes later another co-worker comes to my desk with another vase of flowers! Two in one day? Happy Valentine's to me indeed! Can we say "Daddy's girl"?
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Get Me Out of Neverland
Last night was the final cut for my film scene in my On Camera class. You know, THE scene.
Well, it started out incredibly rocky because my teacher changed the way we were standing, changed the lighting, changed the camera angle, etc. And I didn't wear heels which means you couldn't really see me over Fernando's shoulder. He finally got us in position and told Fernando that he couldn't move at all. He also told me that I couldn't move my head to the left or right and that I could only move it about three inches forward or I would be in shadow. How that heck is someone supposed to get all seductive and sexy when you can't move? As Doug said, "it's very difficult. That's why we as film actors get paid the big bucks." I want the big bucks!
Moving on...I was told not to look at Fernando because then they couldn't see my eyes. I had to look at the wall just past his ear, etc. IT WAS SOOOOO HARD! Doug kept asking, "Where's the sex? What happened to what we talked about last week?"I said, "I am trying to be all sexy with his ear. That's what happened!" I had one inch of work space. Crazy difficult. I was frustrated and kept flubbing one line. We got a meager take. Then he pulled Fernando five feet away to stand by the camera. I had to stay where I was and do the scene while being far away. Doug said, "Remember Katy, SEX SEX SEX SEX SEX SEX." Got it. So I did it and Doug goes, "Cut. Okay, that's it." That's it? I was shocked. Ooookay, so not even another take?
Then we had to watch it. SHEER TERROR! I was mortified and could hardly stand it. I wanted to go hide in a corner while holding onto my childhood pink Puffalump (yes I still have it). So after the final cut, Doug looks at me and says, "I don't even know what to say." *cue the birds chirping* I said, "I don't like it." "YOU DON'T! That was amazing!" WHAT? Seriously? I just said, wow, okay, I trust you guys. Then he made me watch it frame by frame to watch my face, my head movements, etc. He said, "you can't teach people that." I honestly didn't feel totally connected so I thought it could have been better. I'll take his word for it.
The second to last scene wasn't that bad, at least from the mid-point on. At one point in the first half I look like I'm about to choke him. Hilarious. But I did connect and it was strong. I guess I realized that I needed to know what the physical connection was like so that I could really connect with him even though I was five feet away in the last shot.
I learned so much: 1) It's hard y'all and 2) I have really fat-patty hands. Hand modeling is out. DANGIT!
Well, it started out incredibly rocky because my teacher changed the way we were standing, changed the lighting, changed the camera angle, etc. And I didn't wear heels which means you couldn't really see me over Fernando's shoulder. He finally got us in position and told Fernando that he couldn't move at all. He also told me that I couldn't move my head to the left or right and that I could only move it about three inches forward or I would be in shadow. How that heck is someone supposed to get all seductive and sexy when you can't move? As Doug said, "it's very difficult. That's why we as film actors get paid the big bucks." I want the big bucks!
Moving on...I was told not to look at Fernando because then they couldn't see my eyes. I had to look at the wall just past his ear, etc. IT WAS SOOOOO HARD! Doug kept asking, "Where's the sex? What happened to what we talked about last week?"I said, "I am trying to be all sexy with his ear. That's what happened!" I had one inch of work space. Crazy difficult. I was frustrated and kept flubbing one line. We got a meager take. Then he pulled Fernando five feet away to stand by the camera. I had to stay where I was and do the scene while being far away. Doug said, "Remember Katy, SEX SEX SEX SEX SEX SEX." Got it. So I did it and Doug goes, "Cut. Okay, that's it." That's it? I was shocked. Ooookay, so not even another take?
Then we had to watch it. SHEER TERROR! I was mortified and could hardly stand it. I wanted to go hide in a corner while holding onto my childhood pink Puffalump (yes I still have it). So after the final cut, Doug looks at me and says, "I don't even know what to say." *cue the birds chirping* I said, "I don't like it." "YOU DON'T! That was amazing!" WHAT? Seriously? I just said, wow, okay, I trust you guys. Then he made me watch it frame by frame to watch my face, my head movements, etc. He said, "you can't teach people that." I honestly didn't feel totally connected so I thought it could have been better. I'll take his word for it.
The second to last scene wasn't that bad, at least from the mid-point on. At one point in the first half I look like I'm about to choke him. Hilarious. But I did connect and it was strong. I guess I realized that I needed to know what the physical connection was like so that I could really connect with him even though I was five feet away in the last shot.
I learned so much: 1) It's hard y'all and 2) I have really fat-patty hands. Hand modeling is out. DANGIT!
Monday, February 11, 2008
Frost Bite
Happy Monday! And what a glorious Monday it is. Who doesn't love Mondays? Just think, only 4 more days until the weekend!
I think I epitomize the song "Working for the Weekend." Epitomize...I'm having one of those moments when I'm not sure I used the correct word. Epitomize...it's like the one time when I kept saying the word "tree" over and over again and it just didn't sound right. It must be the cold air!
Blogs about weather are usually boring. And this one won't be any different. I just feel like having a pity party. It was all of ZERO degrees yesterday. Windchill registered at -30. NEGATIVE 30! I seriously think my face is thrice its normal size due to windburn. I feel like I've been skiing down a mountain for three days, except I haven't. I just walked five blocks in the cold wind. Whoa is me! (she places back of right hand against her forehead in exasperation while tossing her head backwards) Poor, poor girl.
Today is a balmy high of 12 degrees. I get bitter everytime I look at the temp in Dallas and it reads 65 degrees and sunny. My brother kindly called me today to tell me, "I played tennis yesterday in shorts and a t-shirt." Yeah, well...my scarf turned frosty yesterday from the moisture from my breath. boo ya!
I think I epitomize the song "Working for the Weekend." Epitomize...I'm having one of those moments when I'm not sure I used the correct word. Epitomize...it's like the one time when I kept saying the word "tree" over and over again and it just didn't sound right. It must be the cold air!
Blogs about weather are usually boring. And this one won't be any different. I just feel like having a pity party. It was all of ZERO degrees yesterday. Windchill registered at -30. NEGATIVE 30! I seriously think my face is thrice its normal size due to windburn. I feel like I've been skiing down a mountain for three days, except I haven't. I just walked five blocks in the cold wind. Whoa is me! (she places back of right hand against her forehead in exasperation while tossing her head backwards) Poor, poor girl.
Today is a balmy high of 12 degrees. I get bitter everytime I look at the temp in Dallas and it reads 65 degrees and sunny. My brother kindly called me today to tell me, "I played tennis yesterday in shorts and a t-shirt." Yeah, well...my scarf turned frosty yesterday from the moisture from my breath. boo ya!
Friday, February 08, 2008
Friday Fun
You know how much I love LOST. I was borderline hysterical last night when I got home and realized that my DVR didn't record LOST! I only caught the last 15 minutes. I'm still recovering.
Pop Candy gave a link that you can enter in a few tidbits about yourself and Sawyer will give you a nickname. He gave me the nickname "Ladybug." Swoon!
Pop Candy gave a link that you can enter in a few tidbits about yourself and Sawyer will give you a nickname. He gave me the nickname "Ladybug." Swoon!
Where Are They Now? Family Ties
Family Ties is perhaps one of my favorite shows of all time. I don't know one girl who didn't have a crush on Alex P. Keaton.
It was fun to see them reunited for the first time in 18 years on the Today Show. And I still quote "Sit Ubu sit. Good dog." but had forgotten why until watching this interview.
It was fun to see them reunited for the first time in 18 years on the Today Show. And I still quote "Sit Ubu sit. Good dog." but had forgotten why until watching this interview.
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Upcoming Shows
Come see me perform with my Playground team, The Senate! We were recently voted to be a new Pilot Member team for The Playground theater. Was does that mean? Probably nothing to you, but we think it's a big deal.
You can see us soon:
Saturday, February 9th
8:00 PM
The Playground (Halsted and Belmont)
Wednesday, February 20th
8:00 PM
The Playground
It's $10 and BYOB. Good times guaranteed!
You can see us soon:
Saturday, February 9th
8:00 PM
The Playground (Halsted and Belmont)
Wednesday, February 20th
8:00 PM
The Playground
It's $10 and BYOB. Good times guaranteed!
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Place My Hands Where?
Riddle me this: How on earth does one turn the scene I picked for my On Camera class into a seduction scene? Little innocent Kate Winslet telling little innocent Johnny Depp that she wants to keep pretending they're a family until she dies doesn't exactly seem sexy to me. Somehow teacher Doug thought so.
Thinking I'd have to gear up and get some fat tears ready for a dramatic part, I selected Fernando as my scene partner. He's a good friend. We've never done a scene together in class. It will be fun. Next thing I know Doug is telling me to play a seductress. Katy is to seductress as Ben and Jerry's is to health food. Then he tell us in front of the class to "pretend you're naked...." Uno momento. I'm sorry Doug, could you repeat that? I thought I heard you say, "pretend you're naked." Oh he said that alright, AND SO. MUCH. MORE. He was getting all Nora Roberts on us. I cannot repeat the words whispered to me in the corner that night.
Never would Fernando and I have guessed that in Monday's On Camera class our relationship would become so. much. more...in front of seven other people...and then have to watch it played back to us on video. Magic. I will never forget this as long as I live.
Why is it that I have to take acting classes to get a little action around here? It's a tough job.
Good news, we get to do it again next week. Then he's putting it on DVD for us. DO NOT count on me posting it...EVER! I'll show a private screening at my place and all proceeds will go to charity.
Thinking I'd have to gear up and get some fat tears ready for a dramatic part, I selected Fernando as my scene partner. He's a good friend. We've never done a scene together in class. It will be fun. Next thing I know Doug is telling me to play a seductress. Katy is to seductress as Ben and Jerry's is to health food. Then he tell us in front of the class to "pretend you're naked...." Uno momento. I'm sorry Doug, could you repeat that? I thought I heard you say, "pretend you're naked." Oh he said that alright, AND SO. MUCH. MORE. He was getting all Nora Roberts on us. I cannot repeat the words whispered to me in the corner that night.
Never would Fernando and I have guessed that in Monday's On Camera class our relationship would become so. much. more...in front of seven other people...and then have to watch it played back to us on video. Magic. I will never forget this as long as I live.
Why is it that I have to take acting classes to get a little action around here? It's a tough job.
Good news, we get to do it again next week. Then he's putting it on DVD for us. DO NOT count on me posting it...EVER! I'll show a private screening at my place and all proceeds will go to charity.
Not Just Another Sandra Bullock Movie
An "A ha" moment with a friend yesterday:
Me: Because I want everyone to like me.
Friend: Why? Do you think God is counting the number of people that like you?
Me: Hmmm, I guess God's not handing out any crowns for Miss Congeniality.
Friend: Exactly.
Me: Yeah. Good point.
Me: Because I want everyone to like me.
Friend: Why? Do you think God is counting the number of people that like you?
Me: Hmmm, I guess God's not handing out any crowns for Miss Congeniality.
Friend: Exactly.
Me: Yeah. Good point.
Make an Impact
An interesting article in The New York Times. I happen to be surrounded by many Christians who are sacrificing their time and money to help people in other countries struggling to live. Making trips of their own to China, Africa, Turkey, Guatemala, Russia, etc. or giving abundantly to support those in need, Christians are making a positive impact. I know other people are making an impact too, but I wanted to specifically point out Christians because we're often viewed (mistakenly....and many times, not so mistakenly) as judgmental, unloving and self-righteous. If people truly took the time to get over their prejudices (right or left winged) to get to know each other, they'd see that they do have a common goal.
Please see the do something good! column to the left for more ways you can help people.
Please see the do something good! column to the left for more ways you can help people.
Monday, February 04, 2008
Waste Not, Want Not
Two questions:
1. Why do people lick the peel off lids on yogurt containers? I know why I do it: I can never be satisfied.
2. Do these same people also pour the crums from the bottom of their bags of chips into their mouths? Done it.
Okay, one more encore question:
3. Does everyone drink the remaining milk out of their cereal bowl? I absolutely polish off any remaining morsel or liquid in my cereal bowl. What cereal makes the best leftover milk? I'm going to go with Cinnamon Toast Crunch.
1. Why do people lick the peel off lids on yogurt containers? I know why I do it: I can never be satisfied.
2. Do these same people also pour the crums from the bottom of their bags of chips into their mouths? Done it.
Okay, one more encore question:
3. Does everyone drink the remaining milk out of their cereal bowl? I absolutely polish off any remaining morsel or liquid in my cereal bowl. What cereal makes the best leftover milk? I'm going to go with Cinnamon Toast Crunch.
Underdogs
The game pretty much made me yawn until the fourth quarter when Eli Manning scrambled out of the Patriot's defensive net and hit Tyree with a long pass THAT HE CAUGHT ON HIS HELMET! Our party errupted. It doesn't get much better for an underdog quarterback. Congrats to the Giants. If it wasn't the Cowboys, it might as well be the Giants. Three letters: N-F-C!
The night also brought another emotional moment from me. I couldn't help but get teary-eyed and goosebumpy watching the dalmation train the clydesdale. Again, it's the story of the underdog. Gets me every time.
The night also brought another emotional moment from me. I couldn't help but get teary-eyed and goosebumpy watching the dalmation train the clydesdale. Again, it's the story of the underdog. Gets me every time.
Friday, February 01, 2008
Scene 1, Take 1
Today is nasty in Chicago. Be happy today if you call somewhere other than Chicago home. It snowed for nearly 20 hours straight. I had such high hopes for a snow day. Then I remembered that I live in Chicago and not Texas where they'd call a snow day with the mere threat of inclement weather.
Onto more fun topics...
In my On Camera class we are asked to select a one minute scene from a film that moves us or is from one of our favorite films. We will then rehearse it and perform it for the camera and afterwards we'll have a nifty DVD. I'll have something to show my kids someday. They can take it to school for show and tell.
I procrastinated for several weeks. I felt such pressure to find THE PERFECT film scene. I began to panic, "What IS my favorite film?" "Is there a scene that TOTALLY impacted me and changed my life?" Then I just gave up and decided to find something I enjoyed. I jokingly said I selected the final dance scene from Dirty Dancing and needed a partner. That would be AWESOME! I realized most of my favorite films are period pieces or involved a foreign language. Not gonna work. But in the end I went through my movie collection and pulled out a few that I liked but didn't completely wreak of chick-flickness. I picked out Little Miss Sunshine, The Royal Tenenbaums and Finding Neverland. The first two didn't have long enough scenes with only two people to pass the test. Finally I selected a scene with Kate Winslet (I want her career) and Johnny Depp from Finding Neverland. It's the scene where Sylvia is dying and tells John Barrie that she needs them to keep pretending that they are a family. It makes me cry everytime. Do you think Johnny Depp would do me a favor and be my scene partner? That would really help me out.
Other films or scenes from my collection that would be fun to do but would either be too difficult, not fitting for me or totally inappropriate:
1. The final dance scene in Little Miss Sunshine
2. Anything from Blue Crush
3. Any scene involving Cookie from Best in Show (we had to do a dramatic piece)
I want Winky.
4. The scene from Princess Bride when Wesley finally reveals his identity. "As you wish...."
5. Kick some ass like she did in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
That's all I got at the moment. I'm sure there's plenty more, but it's Friday and my brain is shot.
Onto more fun topics...
In my On Camera class we are asked to select a one minute scene from a film that moves us or is from one of our favorite films. We will then rehearse it and perform it for the camera and afterwards we'll have a nifty DVD. I'll have something to show my kids someday. They can take it to school for show and tell.
I procrastinated for several weeks. I felt such pressure to find THE PERFECT film scene. I began to panic, "What IS my favorite film?" "Is there a scene that TOTALLY impacted me and changed my life?" Then I just gave up and decided to find something I enjoyed. I jokingly said I selected the final dance scene from Dirty Dancing and needed a partner. That would be AWESOME! I realized most of my favorite films are period pieces or involved a foreign language. Not gonna work. But in the end I went through my movie collection and pulled out a few that I liked but didn't completely wreak of chick-flickness. I picked out Little Miss Sunshine, The Royal Tenenbaums and Finding Neverland. The first two didn't have long enough scenes with only two people to pass the test. Finally I selected a scene with Kate Winslet (I want her career) and Johnny Depp from Finding Neverland. It's the scene where Sylvia is dying and tells John Barrie that she needs them to keep pretending that they are a family. It makes me cry everytime. Do you think Johnny Depp would do me a favor and be my scene partner? That would really help me out.
Other films or scenes from my collection that would be fun to do but would either be too difficult, not fitting for me or totally inappropriate:
1. The final dance scene in Little Miss Sunshine
2. Anything from Blue Crush
3. Any scene involving Cookie from Best in Show (we had to do a dramatic piece)
I want Winky.
4. The scene from Princess Bride when Wesley finally reveals his identity. "As you wish...."
5. Kick some ass like she did in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon
That's all I got at the moment. I'm sure there's plenty more, but it's Friday and my brain is shot.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Eight's Great
I stole this from Jana's blog (friend from high school). She's much deeper and way more compassionate than I am with her answers. I'm going to try and rip right through them so I don't think too much. I have a habit of thinking too much and then becoming paralyzed to the point of not knowing what I really think. Hello perfectionism!
8 Things I’m Passionate About...
1. Jesus
2. My family (shocker!)
3. People
4. Stories (fiction or non-fiction)
5. Shoes
6. Acting
7. Traveling
8. Laughing
8 Things I Want To Do Before I Die...
1. Get married (please Jesus!)
2. Have kiddos
3. Travel all over Australia and New Zealand
4. Make a movie or do a play that I am proud of
5. Make the world okay with ending sentences with prepositions
6. Overcome fear
7. Write a book
8. Change peoples lives through story-telling (film, stage, book, etc.)
8 Things I Say Often...
1. Oh you.
2. Any quote from Waiting for Guffman
3. For realz.
4. I'm hungry.
5. But what if....
6. I got it at Anthropologie, of course.
7. Goodnight, sleep tight.
8. I need to shave.
8 TV Shows I’ve Recently Watched...
1. LOST season 3 finale (AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!)
2. Project Runway
3. Real Housewives of Orange County (guilty!)
4. CBS Sunday Morning
5. Scrubs
6. The Office (please come back on!)
7. ER
8. and that's about it
8 Songs I Could Listen to Over and Over...
1. Say it to Me Now (Once soundtrack)
2. Fix You by Cold Play
3. In Christ Alone (that one's for you Kelly!)
4. In 7th grade it was Whitney Houston's How Will I Know if He Really Loves Me.... remember that one Kellsey?
5. Jump for My Love by the Pointer Sisters
6. Sweet Child o'Mine by Guns N'Roses
7. Be Thou My Vision
8. Romeo and Juliet (Indigo Girls version)
8 Things That Attract Me To My Best Friends...
1. They make me feel safe
2. Sense of Humor
3. Their passion for life and people
4. They laugh at themselves
5. Love talking about books, movies...shoes
6. They challenge me to grow mentally, spiritually, emotionally (and thanks to Ben and Jerry's, physically)
7. Their contageous spirit of joy, peace, love and compassion
8. They are trustworthy
8 Things I’ve Learned (or been reminded of) This Past Year...
1. It's not about me!
2. I'm a perfectionist
3. I absolutely LOVE being an aunt
4. Life's too short to be afraid to fail
5. My parents generosity inspires me
6. All You Can Do is All You Can Do, and All You Can Do is Enough (Thanks Art Williams!)
7. God alone is my rock and He is good and trustworthy
8. The iPhone IS THE GEATEST INVENTION EVER!
8 People I Think Should Do “8”...
If you're tagged here, you can leave it on your blog or leave it in the comments section. If you're not tagged but want to share, do it!
Beckles, Kellsey, Lindsay Williams, Art, Erin, Mom, Cousin Kate and Dad
8 Things I’m Passionate About...
1. Jesus
2. My family (shocker!)
3. People
4. Stories (fiction or non-fiction)
5. Shoes
6. Acting
7. Traveling
8. Laughing
8 Things I Want To Do Before I Die...
1. Get married (please Jesus!)
2. Have kiddos
3. Travel all over Australia and New Zealand
4. Make a movie or do a play that I am proud of
5. Make the world okay with ending sentences with prepositions
6. Overcome fear
7. Write a book
8. Change peoples lives through story-telling (film, stage, book, etc.)
8 Things I Say Often...
1. Oh you.
2. Any quote from Waiting for Guffman
3. For realz.
4. I'm hungry.
5. But what if....
6. I got it at Anthropologie, of course.
7. Goodnight, sleep tight.
8. I need to shave.
8 TV Shows I’ve Recently Watched...
1. LOST season 3 finale (AAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!)
2. Project Runway
3. Real Housewives of Orange County (guilty!)
4. CBS Sunday Morning
5. Scrubs
6. The Office (please come back on!)
7. ER
8. and that's about it
8 Songs I Could Listen to Over and Over...
1. Say it to Me Now (Once soundtrack)
2. Fix You by Cold Play
3. In Christ Alone (that one's for you Kelly!)
4. In 7th grade it was Whitney Houston's How Will I Know if He Really Loves Me.... remember that one Kellsey?
5. Jump for My Love by the Pointer Sisters
6. Sweet Child o'Mine by Guns N'Roses
7. Be Thou My Vision
8. Romeo and Juliet (Indigo Girls version)
8 Things That Attract Me To My Best Friends...
1. They make me feel safe
2. Sense of Humor
3. Their passion for life and people
4. They laugh at themselves
5. Love talking about books, movies...shoes
6. They challenge me to grow mentally, spiritually, emotionally (and thanks to Ben and Jerry's, physically)
7. Their contageous spirit of joy, peace, love and compassion
8. They are trustworthy
8 Things I’ve Learned (or been reminded of) This Past Year...
1. It's not about me!
2. I'm a perfectionist
3. I absolutely LOVE being an aunt
4. Life's too short to be afraid to fail
5. My parents generosity inspires me
6. All You Can Do is All You Can Do, and All You Can Do is Enough (Thanks Art Williams!)
7. God alone is my rock and He is good and trustworthy
8. The iPhone IS THE GEATEST INVENTION EVER!
8 People I Think Should Do “8”...
If you're tagged here, you can leave it on your blog or leave it in the comments section. If you're not tagged but want to share, do it!
Beckles, Kellsey, Lindsay Williams, Art, Erin, Mom, Cousin Kate and Dad
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Where Are They Now?
It's time for a fun game of What Ever Happened to Michael Schoeffling? You may remember him as the hot sensitive jock from Sixteen Candles or the tall, dark and handsome type from Mermaids - yes the one with Cher. Are you secretly singing Cher's "It's in His Kiss" song in your head? I know. Me too.
What's become of Jake Ryan? He was every girls' dream. Of all the weddings I've been in, no one has surprised me by picking me up in a Porsche and then baking me a birthday cake. I'm still waiting. IMDB says that he hasn't made a movie since Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken. You know, the one about a diving horse and the cute/awkward girl rider who becomes blind but gets to marry the hot guy? Oh the summer of 1991 had me day-dreaming that I was a diving girl who goes blind and marries the hot guy. 1991! That's the last time we saw Michael Schoeffling. Where is he now?
Wikipedia (such a reliable source!) states "He now lives with his wife Valerie Robinson, also a former model, and their two teenaged children in Greentown, Pennsylvania, producing handcrafted furniture as the owner of a woodworking shop." Dang! He also makes furniture! I love furniture! He also was an "accomplished" collegiate wrestler. Dang! I love wrestlers!
So there you have it. The dreamy jock is now a family man who crafts furniture.
What's become of Jake Ryan? He was every girls' dream. Of all the weddings I've been in, no one has surprised me by picking me up in a Porsche and then baking me a birthday cake. I'm still waiting. IMDB says that he hasn't made a movie since Wild Hearts Can't Be Broken. You know, the one about a diving horse and the cute/awkward girl rider who becomes blind but gets to marry the hot guy? Oh the summer of 1991 had me day-dreaming that I was a diving girl who goes blind and marries the hot guy. 1991! That's the last time we saw Michael Schoeffling. Where is he now?
Wikipedia (such a reliable source!) states "He now lives with his wife Valerie Robinson, also a former model, and their two teenaged children in Greentown, Pennsylvania, producing handcrafted furniture as the owner of a woodworking shop." Dang! He also makes furniture! I love furniture! He also was an "accomplished" collegiate wrestler. Dang! I love wrestlers!
So there you have it. The dreamy jock is now a family man who crafts furniture.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Why Am I Not Married?
This morning started out rough for me. At 6:00 a.m. I was at the gym working out with Shelby. I was crossing the room doing three-pulse lunges, that only Satan could have thought up, when Shelby says, "You have little something on your chin." I thought to myself that it was probably just a bit of grime I picked up from the gym floor while doing push-ups. I casually wiped my chin on my shirt. Then she says, "Well, now it's moved to the side of your face." Wow this is a stubborn little piece of dirt. I turn my head to take a peek in the mirrored wall and notice a huge lugie like thing spread across my jaw line. GASP! I immediately threw down my 15 pound dumbells to wipe my face with my shirt. Shelby says, "I didn't know if I should tell you now because you were holding weights." YES SHELBY! THE ANSWER IS ALWAYS YES!
Mortified.
I really don't know how it got there. I'm thinking it had to have been during my painful struggle doing lower back exercises. Cringing.
Mortified.
I really don't know how it got there. I'm thinking it had to have been during my painful struggle doing lower back exercises. Cringing.
Folsom Prison
Archer seems to love his Christmas present from me. Let's hope that by wearing prison stripes now, he'll avoid wearing them later in life.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Everyone Needs a Little Chipmunk in Their Lives
A little hilarity to begin your day. I'm thinking Oscar Nomination here. Thanks Christine!
And someone got really creative with it here:
I just love this little guy.
And someone got really creative with it here:
I just love this little guy.
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
I Do!
Beckles emailed me today and told me that she was feeling hormonal and therefore had the desire to plan my wedding today. By all means, go ahead. She sent me this addictive website that details different kinds of themed weddings. I don't really think about my wedding day but I couldn't resist this website.
My favorites are:
#118, #116, #113, #105, #88, #75, #73, #61, #44, #43, #20, #15 and #7. I'm seeing a theme of anything outdoors, quirky, rustic or vintage.
Oh this is too much fun = trouble.
My favorites are:
#118, #116, #113, #105, #88, #75, #73, #61, #44, #43, #20, #15 and #7. I'm seeing a theme of anything outdoors, quirky, rustic or vintage.
Oh this is too much fun = trouble.
Round Table Discussion
I don't know a family that has more fun with iChat. It was almost like I was home talking face to face with everyone.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Let's All Go to the Movies!
In honor of Oscar Nominations announced this morning, LET'S TALK MOVIES!
But before we get into this year's selections, I want to discuss some oldies but goodies. This weekend I decided to lock myself in my apartment (thanks to Chicago being all of 2 degrees...FAHRENHEIT) to snuggle with a blanket and watch movies that impacted me as a kid.
The first one is Empire of the Sun starring little Mr. Christian Bale. And that is when I developed my first film-star crush. Even as a youth I could see beyond the horrible wig they made him wear for most of the movie. I also had a little surprise when I recognized a young Ben Stiller. I had no idea he was in that movie. I think what hit me most was this young kid trying to hold onto his youth while having to grow up quickly in a prison camp during World War II. It's a beautifully filmed story and John Malkovich is brilliant as always. He has a way of making me want to punch him in the face. Kudos for him for not shying away from unlikeable characters. If you haven't seen it, do yourself a favor and rent this Steven Spielberg classic.
The second one is The Power of One starring Morgan Freeman and Stephen Dorff. And there marked the development of my second film-star crush. Sure he's a mess now, but back then he was fighting for peace in South Africa. I had another one of those, "Oh my gosh, do you know who that is?!" moments. The newest James Bond, Daniel Craig, plays one of the most hateful characters in this movie. I don't know if I can ever look at him the same. Want education and a beautiful story all in one movie? Rent it.
Guess how many times I cried this weekend in movies. I'm thinking I cried three times in two movies. Not bad.
Now onto the Oscar Nominations:
Best Picture
Juno: I'm so excited about this one! Not only is the music fabulous but the actors charm the butt right off of you. I'm not kidding. I entered the movie wearing a size 10 jeans and left wearing a size 6.
Michael Clayton: I think this is a movie about George Clooney doing something to change the world...or at least a few peoples lives. I haven't seen it. I probably won't.
No Country for Old Men: I hear it's bloody. Yet I'm somewhat tempted to go see it. People either love it or hate it.
There Will Be Blood: I can't resist a movie starring one of the single hottest characters of all time: Daniel Day Lewis in Last of the Mohicans. Be still my beating heart. I'm sure I won't think he's hot in this movie. But anyone who will stay in character 24 hours a day while he's filming a movie deserves my money. Just think of the therapy he'll need afterwards.
Atonement: Hated it. No seriously, I really didn't like the movie. Story = eh. Characters...didn't really care what happened to them. I didn't find them likeable. However, the music was beautiful and the way the film was shot was a work of art.
Best Actor/Actress and Best Supporting Actor/Actress
Laura Linney, Ellen Page and Julie Christie = Fabulous! I love the surprise of Laura Linney's nomination. Ellen Page, that role was written for you. If only I could be so lucky. Philip Seymour Hoffman in Charlie Wilson's War was a pure delight.
Original Screenplay
Lars and the Real Girl: You stole my heart! Please rent this movie. Ryan Gossling's performance is refreshing and you just want to hug everyone after the movie. If only communities came together in real life like they did in this movie.
Those are my thoughts. I still need to see a couple of these flicks to really know who to root for should the Oscars actually take place. At this moment I'm thinking Juno.
But before we get into this year's selections, I want to discuss some oldies but goodies. This weekend I decided to lock myself in my apartment (thanks to Chicago being all of 2 degrees...FAHRENHEIT) to snuggle with a blanket and watch movies that impacted me as a kid.
The first one is Empire of the Sun starring little Mr. Christian Bale. And that is when I developed my first film-star crush. Even as a youth I could see beyond the horrible wig they made him wear for most of the movie. I also had a little surprise when I recognized a young Ben Stiller. I had no idea he was in that movie. I think what hit me most was this young kid trying to hold onto his youth while having to grow up quickly in a prison camp during World War II. It's a beautifully filmed story and John Malkovich is brilliant as always. He has a way of making me want to punch him in the face. Kudos for him for not shying away from unlikeable characters. If you haven't seen it, do yourself a favor and rent this Steven Spielberg classic.
The second one is The Power of One starring Morgan Freeman and Stephen Dorff. And there marked the development of my second film-star crush. Sure he's a mess now, but back then he was fighting for peace in South Africa. I had another one of those, "Oh my gosh, do you know who that is?!" moments. The newest James Bond, Daniel Craig, plays one of the most hateful characters in this movie. I don't know if I can ever look at him the same. Want education and a beautiful story all in one movie? Rent it.
Guess how many times I cried this weekend in movies. I'm thinking I cried three times in two movies. Not bad.
Now onto the Oscar Nominations:
Best Picture
Juno: I'm so excited about this one! Not only is the music fabulous but the actors charm the butt right off of you. I'm not kidding. I entered the movie wearing a size 10 jeans and left wearing a size 6.
Michael Clayton: I think this is a movie about George Clooney doing something to change the world...or at least a few peoples lives. I haven't seen it. I probably won't.
No Country for Old Men: I hear it's bloody. Yet I'm somewhat tempted to go see it. People either love it or hate it.
There Will Be Blood: I can't resist a movie starring one of the single hottest characters of all time: Daniel Day Lewis in Last of the Mohicans. Be still my beating heart. I'm sure I won't think he's hot in this movie. But anyone who will stay in character 24 hours a day while he's filming a movie deserves my money. Just think of the therapy he'll need afterwards.
Atonement: Hated it. No seriously, I really didn't like the movie. Story = eh. Characters...didn't really care what happened to them. I didn't find them likeable. However, the music was beautiful and the way the film was shot was a work of art.
Best Actor/Actress and Best Supporting Actor/Actress
Laura Linney, Ellen Page and Julie Christie = Fabulous! I love the surprise of Laura Linney's nomination. Ellen Page, that role was written for you. If only I could be so lucky. Philip Seymour Hoffman in Charlie Wilson's War was a pure delight.
Original Screenplay
Lars and the Real Girl: You stole my heart! Please rent this movie. Ryan Gossling's performance is refreshing and you just want to hug everyone after the movie. If only communities came together in real life like they did in this movie.
Those are my thoughts. I still need to see a couple of these flicks to really know who to root for should the Oscars actually take place. At this moment I'm thinking Juno.
Friday, January 18, 2008
Go Cubs Go!
I just spent five hours people watching while working a booth at the Cubs Convention. This is the Olympics of people watching. It is also the place where all weirdness from across the world comes together and embraces one another. To be diplomatic, there are some really nice and normal people there too. Let's shed a tear for dad's and sons bonding together in the name of the Cubs.
Convention = FREE CRAP! (and mullets) Experienced conventioners waddle through the crowds weighed down by plastic bags filled to the top with flyers, pens, shirts, koozies, power bars, etc. It's no wonder that they walk by our not-for-profit booth looking for free things. Ummm...it's not-for-profit. Nothing's free. We're in the business of curing diseases people.
Some people feel the need to stop and look at what you're selling or information on research because their guilt is just a little too much. Then they mumble something with a weak smile as they walk away like, "that's great what you're doing there. I'll come back later." How do I know they do this? I SAW it! And I happen to have done it myself a few times. GUILTY.
All high and mighty and with a twinge of the "you shoulds," I asked one woman if she had ever participated in our Walk before. She responded, "Well, I had thought about it but then I had just finished chemo...." Oh...nevermind.
And then the revelation of the night came as I watched a dozen men dressed in pin-covered bucket-hats with fuzzy "cub" ears sewn on to the sides. The Cubs are to grown men as the Care-Bears are to little girls. CARE-BEAR STARE!
Convention = FREE CRAP! (and mullets) Experienced conventioners waddle through the crowds weighed down by plastic bags filled to the top with flyers, pens, shirts, koozies, power bars, etc. It's no wonder that they walk by our not-for-profit booth looking for free things. Ummm...it's not-for-profit. Nothing's free. We're in the business of curing diseases people.
Some people feel the need to stop and look at what you're selling or information on research because their guilt is just a little too much. Then they mumble something with a weak smile as they walk away like, "that's great what you're doing there. I'll come back later." How do I know they do this? I SAW it! And I happen to have done it myself a few times. GUILTY.
All high and mighty and with a twinge of the "you shoulds," I asked one woman if she had ever participated in our Walk before. She responded, "Well, I had thought about it but then I had just finished chemo...." Oh...nevermind.
And then the revelation of the night came as I watched a dozen men dressed in pin-covered bucket-hats with fuzzy "cub" ears sewn on to the sides. The Cubs are to grown men as the Care-Bears are to little girls. CARE-BEAR STARE!
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
What's Your Sign?
My Aunt Mary sent this to me today. She's an Aries but I don't think it describes her perfectly. She is energetic, athletic and witty...but selfish? I don't think so. She lent me a book she hadn't read yet last January and I didn't return it until November. She was generous and never complained (that I know of!).
So read your sign and let me know if it describes you. Seriously, I want to know more about you. Don't be shy. See that little comment box at the bottom? Click it. Go on. I dare you.
I'm a Pisces. It's true, I'm a dreamer and tend to be private (except when discussing waxing or my favorite kind of panties). Unselfish? Ummmm...not really. Good kisser? I'll be taking a poll at a kissing booth tomorrow. 3:30. At the park. Be there! And beautiful? Oh you. You make me blush.
Once you have opened this, there's no turning back. Below are true descriptions of zodiac signs. Read your sign, then forward it on, with your zodiac sign and label on the subject line. This is the real deal, try ignoring or changing it, and the first thing you'll notice is having a horrible day starting tomorrow morning - and it only gets worse from there.
VIRGO - The Perfectionist
Dominant in relationships. Conservative. Always wants the last word. Argumentative. Worries. Very smart. Dislikes noise and chaos. Eager. Hardworking. Loyal. Beautiful. Easy to talk to. Hard to please. Harsh. Practical and very fussy. Often shy. Pessimistic.
SCORPIO - The Intense One
Very energetic. Intelligent. Can be ! jealous and/or possessive. Hardworking. Great kisser. Can become obsessive or secretive. Holds grudges. Attractive. Determined. Loves being in long relationships. Talkative. Romantic. Can be self-centered at times. Passionate and Emotional.
LIBRA - The Harmonizer
Nice to everyone they meet. Can't make up their mind. Have own unique appeal. Creative, energetic, and very social. Hates to be alone. Peaceful, generous. Very loving and beautiful. Flirtatious. Give in too easily. Procrastinators. Very gullible.
ARIES - The Daredevil
Energetic. Adventurous and spontaneous. Confident and enthusiastic. Fun. Loves a challenge. EXTREMELY impatient. Sometimes selfish. Short fuse. (easily angered.) Lively, passionate, and sharp wit. Outgoing. Lose interest quickly - easily bored. Egotistical. Courageous and assertive. Tends to be physical and athletic.
AQUARIUS - The Sweetheart
Optimistic and honest. Sweet personality. Very independent. Inventive and intelligent. Friendly and loyal. Can seem unemotional. Can be a bit rebellious. Very stubborn, but original and unique. Attractive on the inside and out. Eccentric personality.
GEMINI - The Chatterbox
Smart and witty. Outgoing, very chatty. Lively, energetic. Adaptable but needs to express themselves. Argumentative and outspoken. Likes change. Versatile. Busy, sometimes nervous and tense. Gossips. May seem superficial or inconsistent, But is only changeable. Beautiful physically and mentally.
LEO - The Boss
Very organized. Need order in their lives - like being in control. Like boundaries. Tend to take over everything. Bossy. Like to help others. Social and outgoing. Extroverted. Generous, warm-hearted. Sensitive. Creative energy. Full of themselves Loving. Doing the right thing is important to Leos. Attractive.
CANCER - The Protector
Moody, emotional. May be shy. Very loving and caring. Pretty/handsome. Excellent partners for life. Protective. Inventive and imaginative. Cautious. Touchy-feely kind of person. Needs love from others. Easily hurt, but sympathetic.
PISCES - The Dreamer
Generous, kind, and thoughtful. Very creative and imaginative. May become secretive and vague. Sensitive. Don't like details. Dreamy and unrealistic. Sympathetic and loving. Kind. Unselfish. Good kisser. Beautiful .
CAPRICORN - The Go-Getter
Patient and wise. Practical and rigid. Ambitious. Tends to be good-looking. Humorous and funny. Can be a bit shy and reserved. Often pessimists. Capricorns tend to act before they think and can be unfriendly at times. Hold grudges. Like competition. Get what they want.
TAURUS - The Enduring One
Charming but aggressive. Can come off as boring, but they are not. Hard workers. Warm-hearted. Strong, has endurance. Solid beings who are stable and secure in their ways. Not looking for shortcuts. Take pride in their beauty. Patient and reliable. Make great friends and give good advice. Loving and kind. Loves hard - passionate Express themselves emotionally. Prone to ferocious temper-tantrums. Determined. Indulge themselves often. Very generous.
SAGITTARIUS - The Happy-Go-Lucky One
Good-natured optimist. Doesn't want to grow up (Peter Pan Syndrome). Indulges self. Boastful. Likes luxuries and gambling. Social and outgoing. Doesn't like responsibilities. Often fantasizes. Impatient. Fun to be around. Having lots of friends. Flirtatious. Doesn't like rules. Sometimes hypocritical. Dislikes being confined - tight spaces or even tight clothes. Doesn't like being doubted. Beautiful inside and out.
So read your sign and let me know if it describes you. Seriously, I want to know more about you. Don't be shy. See that little comment box at the bottom? Click it. Go on. I dare you.
I'm a Pisces. It's true, I'm a dreamer and tend to be private (except when discussing waxing or my favorite kind of panties). Unselfish? Ummmm...not really. Good kisser? I'll be taking a poll at a kissing booth tomorrow. 3:30. At the park. Be there! And beautiful? Oh you. You make me blush.
Once you have opened this, there's no turning back. Below are true descriptions of zodiac signs. Read your sign, then forward it on, with your zodiac sign and label on the subject line. This is the real deal, try ignoring or changing it, and the first thing you'll notice is having a horrible day starting tomorrow morning - and it only gets worse from there.
VIRGO - The Perfectionist
Dominant in relationships. Conservative. Always wants the last word. Argumentative. Worries. Very smart. Dislikes noise and chaos. Eager. Hardworking. Loyal. Beautiful. Easy to talk to. Hard to please. Harsh. Practical and very fussy. Often shy. Pessimistic.
SCORPIO - The Intense One
Very energetic. Intelligent. Can be ! jealous and/or possessive. Hardworking. Great kisser. Can become obsessive or secretive. Holds grudges. Attractive. Determined. Loves being in long relationships. Talkative. Romantic. Can be self-centered at times. Passionate and Emotional.
LIBRA - The Harmonizer
Nice to everyone they meet. Can't make up their mind. Have own unique appeal. Creative, energetic, and very social. Hates to be alone. Peaceful, generous. Very loving and beautiful. Flirtatious. Give in too easily. Procrastinators. Very gullible.
ARIES - The Daredevil
Energetic. Adventurous and spontaneous. Confident and enthusiastic. Fun. Loves a challenge. EXTREMELY impatient. Sometimes selfish. Short fuse. (easily angered.) Lively, passionate, and sharp wit. Outgoing. Lose interest quickly - easily bored. Egotistical. Courageous and assertive. Tends to be physical and athletic.
AQUARIUS - The Sweetheart
Optimistic and honest. Sweet personality. Very independent. Inventive and intelligent. Friendly and loyal. Can seem unemotional. Can be a bit rebellious. Very stubborn, but original and unique. Attractive on the inside and out. Eccentric personality.
GEMINI - The Chatterbox
Smart and witty. Outgoing, very chatty. Lively, energetic. Adaptable but needs to express themselves. Argumentative and outspoken. Likes change. Versatile. Busy, sometimes nervous and tense. Gossips. May seem superficial or inconsistent, But is only changeable. Beautiful physically and mentally.
LEO - The Boss
Very organized. Need order in their lives - like being in control. Like boundaries. Tend to take over everything. Bossy. Like to help others. Social and outgoing. Extroverted. Generous, warm-hearted. Sensitive. Creative energy. Full of themselves Loving. Doing the right thing is important to Leos. Attractive.
CANCER - The Protector
Moody, emotional. May be shy. Very loving and caring. Pretty/handsome. Excellent partners for life. Protective. Inventive and imaginative. Cautious. Touchy-feely kind of person. Needs love from others. Easily hurt, but sympathetic.
PISCES - The Dreamer
Generous, kind, and thoughtful. Very creative and imaginative. May become secretive and vague. Sensitive. Don't like details. Dreamy and unrealistic. Sympathetic and loving. Kind. Unselfish. Good kisser. Beautiful .
CAPRICORN - The Go-Getter
Patient and wise. Practical and rigid. Ambitious. Tends to be good-looking. Humorous and funny. Can be a bit shy and reserved. Often pessimists. Capricorns tend to act before they think and can be unfriendly at times. Hold grudges. Like competition. Get what they want.
TAURUS - The Enduring One
Charming but aggressive. Can come off as boring, but they are not. Hard workers. Warm-hearted. Strong, has endurance. Solid beings who are stable and secure in their ways. Not looking for shortcuts. Take pride in their beauty. Patient and reliable. Make great friends and give good advice. Loving and kind. Loves hard - passionate Express themselves emotionally. Prone to ferocious temper-tantrums. Determined. Indulge themselves often. Very generous.
SAGITTARIUS - The Happy-Go-Lucky One
Good-natured optimist. Doesn't want to grow up (Peter Pan Syndrome). Indulges self. Boastful. Likes luxuries and gambling. Social and outgoing. Doesn't like responsibilities. Often fantasizes. Impatient. Fun to be around. Having lots of friends. Flirtatious. Doesn't like rules. Sometimes hypocritical. Dislikes being confined - tight spaces or even tight clothes. Doesn't like being doubted. Beautiful inside and out.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
The Senate, The Playground
Yay! I am now an official member of The Senate. The Senate was just voted in on Saturday to be a Pilot Team at The Playground.
Three high-kicks and a double fist pump!
Someday my face will actual appear here.
Three high-kicks and a double fist pump!
Someday my face will actual appear here.
Same Time Last Year
Last year at this time I was here, here and here.
Two years ago around this time I was here.
This time this year it's shaping up to be more like this.
I know you feel real sorry for me.
Happy vacationing to Erin, Chris and Archer as they are soaking up the sun and sipping pina coladas in Cabo San Lucas with the Tuttles. And good luck to my parents who are watching Connor for the week.
Two years ago around this time I was here.
This time this year it's shaping up to be more like this.
I know you feel real sorry for me.
Happy vacationing to Erin, Chris and Archer as they are soaking up the sun and sipping pina coladas in Cabo San Lucas with the Tuttles. And good luck to my parents who are watching Connor for the week.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Labels
I'm creating "labels" for most of my posts. That way those of you who say, "Hey, I really like Katy's waxing stories, I wish she had all of them available with one click of the mouse." And I can now respond, "All your dreams have come true!"
Be patient, I have around 550 posts to label. It's a good winter project.
Be patient, I have around 550 posts to label. It's a good winter project.
RIP Cowboys
One Word: Penalties
Two Words: Jessica Simpson
Three Words: Cabo San Lucas
Four Words: Rest In Peace Cowboys
I know it's not Jessica Simpson's fault. But it sure is easy to point the finger that direction. Well, maybe it's more towards Tony Romo's direction. I'm not going to go there, it was a team effort. blah. It's a sad day for Cowboys fans.
On the brighter side - they had a great season and made football fun again for me. America's Team. I don't care what you say, it's true.
Two Words: Jessica Simpson
Three Words: Cabo San Lucas
Four Words: Rest In Peace Cowboys
I know it's not Jessica Simpson's fault. But it sure is easy to point the finger that direction. Well, maybe it's more towards Tony Romo's direction. I'm not going to go there, it was a team effort. blah. It's a sad day for Cowboys fans.
On the brighter side - they had a great season and made football fun again for me. America's Team. I don't care what you say, it's true.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Wax On, Wax Off
Yesterday I got my eyebrows waxed. Again, little red spots are left as traces of evidence. But I don't look like I was beat up this time. When I was laying on the table I asked one of my "inane" questions: "Have you ever dropped a glob of wax in someone's hair? I mean, how would you get it out?" She hadn't and I didn't want to be the first.
Walking back to work I began laughing to myself as I remembered a funny story one of my extended relatives told me about herself and a bad waxing situation. She decided to try a do-it-yourself wax..for her nether-regions...never a good idea. She put the wax on her skin...AND IT WOULDN'T COME OFF! She even called my mom for moral support and any wax-removal ideas. She was afraid she would rip off her skin so she had a brilliant idea of getting into a bathtub of warm water to melt the wax so she could wipe it off. The wax did come off, but she didn't immediately realize that she was laying in what had become a tub of wax. Everything was sticky. Her towel stuck to her. The door knobs, the phone, the floor, the tub...all were sticky. Bless her heart. If this isn't a recommendation for professional waxing, I don't know what is.
Walking back to work I began laughing to myself as I remembered a funny story one of my extended relatives told me about herself and a bad waxing situation. She decided to try a do-it-yourself wax..for her nether-regions...never a good idea. She put the wax on her skin...AND IT WOULDN'T COME OFF! She even called my mom for moral support and any wax-removal ideas. She was afraid she would rip off her skin so she had a brilliant idea of getting into a bathtub of warm water to melt the wax so she could wipe it off. The wax did come off, but she didn't immediately realize that she was laying in what had become a tub of wax. Everything was sticky. Her towel stuck to her. The door knobs, the phone, the floor, the tub...all were sticky. Bless her heart. If this isn't a recommendation for professional waxing, I don't know what is.
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
It's a Show!
I'm sitting in on the uber-talented improv team The Senate. We're performing tomorrow night, as in Wednesday night, at The Playground (Belmont & Halsted) at 8:00 p.m. BYOB. BTOBS (Be There Or Be Square).
Bar Fight
I almost got in a bar fight Saturday night. I'm not even kidding. Kelly and I met Alyson at Mad River for her sister's going away party. The place was so crowded. We weren't even there 20 minutes when I had had enough of being bumped into and pushed so people could move past you. I'm sure having a "honky tonk badonkadonk" didn't help. Then feelings of claustrophobia began settling in. I needed to leave the place ASAP.
I squeezed my way through the crowd and almost reached the door when three little 22 year-old girls wearing bleached hair and their skinny jeans shove right into me so they can get through the crowd. Oh no you didn't! I raise my arms and gave them my best jazz hands with a "WHAT WAS THAT?" face. The last girl stopped in her tracks and looks at me with a "WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?" face. THAT'S IT! It was all I could do to not start something right there. All I said yelling over the crowd was, "Oh you'll see when you've been here longer than five seconds AND ARE ABOUT 10 YEARS OLDER!" Oh snap. I showed her! I didn't come off sounding old at all.
Goodbye Mad River. I will never step foot in your doors again. I'm "of age" to drink and therefore too old to enter your establishment.
I squeezed my way through the crowd and almost reached the door when three little 22 year-old girls wearing bleached hair and their skinny jeans shove right into me so they can get through the crowd. Oh no you didn't! I raise my arms and gave them my best jazz hands with a "WHAT WAS THAT?" face. The last girl stopped in her tracks and looks at me with a "WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?" face. THAT'S IT! It was all I could do to not start something right there. All I said yelling over the crowd was, "Oh you'll see when you've been here longer than five seconds AND ARE ABOUT 10 YEARS OLDER!" Oh snap. I showed her! I didn't come off sounding old at all.
Goodbye Mad River. I will never step foot in your doors again. I'm "of age" to drink and therefore too old to enter your establishment.
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Gina's Farewell Party
Recipe for a great farewell party:
1)Fun bar with no smoking (I am so happy about the no-smoking laws that went into effect last week!).
2)Brilliant soundtrack that's sing-a-long friendly.
3)A woodchuck cider.
4)Your favorite carpool members.
5)Man muffs.
MAN MUFFS? Yes, Man Muffs. They are a great crowd-pleaser/ice-breaker.
1)Fun bar with no smoking (I am so happy about the no-smoking laws that went into effect last week!).
2)Brilliant soundtrack that's sing-a-long friendly.
3)A woodchuck cider.
4)Your favorite carpool members.
5)Man muffs.
MAN MUFFS? Yes, Man Muffs. They are a great crowd-pleaser/ice-breaker.
Friday, January 04, 2008
Vote Early, Vote Often
The word "caucus" makes me think of loci (plural for locus) and cicadas. I know it's where people in Iowa enter a room and stand next to a piece of paper vowing their allegiance to a presidential candidate; then they try and convince the people across the room, who don't have as many on their side, to see the light and join them. Doesn't that sound a bit like childish playground games?
And it has begun ladies and gentlemen - the next 11 months will be filled with extremism, bickering, finger-pointing and assumptions. I'm already overwhelmed with anxious feelings. Conservatives hate Liberals and Liberals hate Conservatives. People who have read a headline from a newspaper suddenly become experts on the subject and begin touting to anyone who will listen that this is the best way and whatever you think is stupid and sucks. Like-minded groups of people get together and have passionate discussions crescendoing with congratulations to themselves for being right and all-knowing. It happens on both sides. I see it. (I'm a Texan who lives in Chicago) Remember this: no matter how passionate and "right" you are about a political party, an issue or a viewpoint, someone is just as passionate and "right" about those topics on the other side. You're probably saying, "I know that Katy, but HOW CAN THEY BELIEVE AND SUPPORT THAT?" Give each other a break! Politics brings out such ugly self-righteousness in people. But don't be afraid to take a stand on something that is really important to you. Let me warn you though, some will hail you and others will loathe you.
I wish I had a solution to make people give each other respect. Assumptions about people who think differently than you are dangerous. Assume = makes and ASS out of U and ME.
Quit with the hateration already. My peacemaker obsession is going to give me an ulcer by the end of the presidential race. This whole post makes me sound self-righteous. I just don't like the fighting. I already want to buy stock in alka-seltzer.
And it has begun ladies and gentlemen - the next 11 months will be filled with extremism, bickering, finger-pointing and assumptions. I'm already overwhelmed with anxious feelings. Conservatives hate Liberals and Liberals hate Conservatives. People who have read a headline from a newspaper suddenly become experts on the subject and begin touting to anyone who will listen that this is the best way and whatever you think is stupid and sucks. Like-minded groups of people get together and have passionate discussions crescendoing with congratulations to themselves for being right and all-knowing. It happens on both sides. I see it. (I'm a Texan who lives in Chicago) Remember this: no matter how passionate and "right" you are about a political party, an issue or a viewpoint, someone is just as passionate and "right" about those topics on the other side. You're probably saying, "I know that Katy, but HOW CAN THEY BELIEVE AND SUPPORT THAT?" Give each other a break! Politics brings out such ugly self-righteousness in people. But don't be afraid to take a stand on something that is really important to you. Let me warn you though, some will hail you and others will loathe you.
I wish I had a solution to make people give each other respect. Assumptions about people who think differently than you are dangerous. Assume = makes and ASS out of U and ME.
Quit with the hateration already. My peacemaker obsession is going to give me an ulcer by the end of the presidential race. This whole post makes me sound self-righteous. I just don't like the fighting. I already want to buy stock in alka-seltzer.
Thursday, January 03, 2008
Musings
What do Jessica Simpson and I have in common? Nothing.
Don't you think that wearing your puffy coat because the office is so cold constitutes the office needing to be closed? Me too.
Thank God I started my period today. My boobs were killing me.
I forgot my book today. I'm wondering how I'll survive the commute home. I may actually have to spend time thinking.
Is there something about me that says "Frosty Lipstick"? The lady at the Chanel counter thought so.
Project Runway.
Spin Class tonight? God help me, I need to go.
My friend, Gina, is moving to Iowa this weekend. She just stopped by the office to say goodbye to everyone. Boohoo. She gave me her calendar of inspirational quotes. I thought this week's was fitting for her. "I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year, 'Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.' And he replied, 'Go out into the darkness and put your hand in the hand of God. That shall be to you better than a light and safer than a known way.'" M. Louise Haskins
Don't you think that wearing your puffy coat because the office is so cold constitutes the office needing to be closed? Me too.
Thank God I started my period today. My boobs were killing me.
I forgot my book today. I'm wondering how I'll survive the commute home. I may actually have to spend time thinking.
Is there something about me that says "Frosty Lipstick"? The lady at the Chanel counter thought so.
Project Runway.
Spin Class tonight? God help me, I need to go.
My friend, Gina, is moving to Iowa this weekend. She just stopped by the office to say goodbye to everyone. Boohoo. She gave me her calendar of inspirational quotes. I thought this week's was fitting for her. "I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year, 'Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown.' And he replied, 'Go out into the darkness and put your hand in the hand of God. That shall be to you better than a light and safer than a known way.'" M. Louise Haskins
Wednesday, January 02, 2008
New Year, New You!
Happy New Year! Hello 2008. I have a feeling we're going to get along nicely.
I am so glad I'm over the whole "New Year's Eve has to be exciting, fun and last well into the early morn." I've wasted some New Year's trying to make it "all that and a bag of chips." I've matured....obviously because Becky, Russ & I were the youngest amongst the grey-haired at the movies on New Year's Eve. We had a lovely dinner and then went to see Charlie Wilson's War (a fabulous movie that I highly recommend...and not just because you get to see Tom Hank's toosh). We were back at their house by 11:45 pm and welcomed in the New Year by saying sleepily, "Happy New Year!" Then their welsh corgie, Fatty Lumpkins, gave me a kiss. It is indeed going to be a wonderful year.
I'm also rebelling against the get fit craze that begins on January 1st. I'm never one to go along with the crowds, unless it involves stylish shoes or a good meal, so I'm going to wait until most people have quit their resolutions before I begin. Too much pressure at the beginning to be perfect and succeed, so I'm going to wait a couple of months to be perfect and successful.
I just ate a Milky Way Carmel mini-bar. Take that society!
Of course I do have some goals for 2008. I am my father's daughter after all.
1. Get an agent: I'm going to get on this PRONTO!
2. Run two half-marathons: I love them, I can't help it.
3. Do a triathlon: Another love/hate relationship.
4. Cook a nice meal once a week: Scratch that, too much pressure, so little joy.
5. Write my own show.
6. Get to a place where I can quit my job and act full-time.
7. Volunteer consistently.
8. Pray for my family consistently.
Those are 8 for 2008.
Anyone have goals they want to achieve? Feel free to share. I wish you the best of luck. Don't get down because it's January 2nd and you've already failed with one of your goals. Start again tomorrow.
I am so glad I'm over the whole "New Year's Eve has to be exciting, fun and last well into the early morn." I've wasted some New Year's trying to make it "all that and a bag of chips." I've matured....obviously because Becky, Russ & I were the youngest amongst the grey-haired at the movies on New Year's Eve. We had a lovely dinner and then went to see Charlie Wilson's War (a fabulous movie that I highly recommend...and not just because you get to see Tom Hank's toosh). We were back at their house by 11:45 pm and welcomed in the New Year by saying sleepily, "Happy New Year!" Then their welsh corgie, Fatty Lumpkins, gave me a kiss. It is indeed going to be a wonderful year.
I'm also rebelling against the get fit craze that begins on January 1st. I'm never one to go along with the crowds, unless it involves stylish shoes or a good meal, so I'm going to wait until most people have quit their resolutions before I begin. Too much pressure at the beginning to be perfect and succeed, so I'm going to wait a couple of months to be perfect and successful.
I just ate a Milky Way Carmel mini-bar. Take that society!
Of course I do have some goals for 2008. I am my father's daughter after all.
1. Get an agent: I'm going to get on this PRONTO!
2. Run two half-marathons: I love them, I can't help it.
3. Do a triathlon: Another love/hate relationship.
4. Cook a nice meal once a week: Scratch that, too much pressure, so little joy.
5. Write my own show.
6. Get to a place where I can quit my job and act full-time.
7. Volunteer consistently.
8. Pray for my family consistently.
Those are 8 for 2008.
Anyone have goals they want to achieve? Feel free to share. I wish you the best of luck. Don't get down because it's January 2nd and you've already failed with one of your goals. Start again tomorrow.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Surprise Wedding
No it's not my surprise wedding. That indeed would have been a surprise.
Today one of my closest and dearest friends from growing up got married! Courtney and her now husband, Jeferson, decided a week ago to forget the big wedding and just get on with life! So at a Texas Courthouse, Courtney & Jeferson and 35 of their closest friends and family gathered together to watch them say their "I Do's." I was so happy to be able to be home for the event. It was also fun to see friends I hadn't seen in a while.
Here are some pics from the blessed event. She looked beautiful and he is just adorable.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Back On the Air
Sorry for the lack of updates recently. You know how I get when I'm home with my family. This week at home has consisted of babies, babies and more babies. Liam constantly makes me laugh with his giggles and smiles. Connor has me running around like crazy chasing after him. And Archer has given me some of the best smiles a two month old can give. Seriously, he has the cutest little dimple just to the left of his smile. I wish I could capture it on my camera but I'm too busy staring at him in awe. He's grown so much these past two months. He's only a couple of pounds lighter than Liam. Wonders never cease.
Andrew and I had a date night the other night. Mi Cocina and Once made for a fun night. Then all of us, except the McCroskeys, headed to the lake for a couple of nights. I shot skeet and actually hit a couple this time. We played tennis and I sweated while only wearing pants and a t-shirt. I love Texas winters. We watched movies and worked on an insanely difficult puzzle. Drewby brought his cute girlfriend to the lake. So we were no longer the odd-man out together. I had to hold the torch on my own. Good times.
All in all it has been a fantastic week. I won't bore you with any more details other than I got a big fat big new t.v. for Christmas. Now I can watch Planet Earth on HD-TV.
Enjoy some of the pictures from this past week. Have a safe and wonderful New Years!
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
Friday, December 21, 2007
With Love, From Texas
I think my family called a "family meeting" recently to come up with ways to make me feel loved and to let me know that they can't wait for me to come home for Christmas. Seriously, I have been inundated with loving text messages, fun emails and phone calls. On the bus this morning I looked out at frozen Lake Michigan and just thought "God, you placed me in the most perfect family for me! You are so good to me!" I also thanked God by saying, "Thank you for making us all so good looking!"
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Christmas in Lakeview
Christmas is one of my favorite times of year. We obviously love it in our apartment.I mean, just look, I'm hugging a tree!
We recently celebrated our roommate Christmas. Janell cooked us up a fantabulous dinner (served, of course, on my Christmas plates!). Here's how the night played out:
Janell: "You two are just such fabulous roommates. I want to wish you both a Merry Christmas and Happy New Years! Cheers!"
Me: "I know exactly what you mean Janell. We have been so blessed. I have so many deep thoughts in my head. Can't you tell just by looking at my face? I'm about to say something really profound. Get out your pen and paper y'all. You're going to want to write this down."
Jessie: "Deep schmeep! Let's keep it light and fun! It's Christmas! I just got my hair done so I no longer have roots! Let's open our presents and God bless us everyone!"
Katy: "I need a nap first. I ate too much. When are we having dessert? I smell chocolate."(feet shuffling into the living room)
Katy: "Janell! Anthropologie?! You are like a mind reader!"
Janell: "And I'm looking HAWT in my new necklace. Horseshoes are for luck girls. Watch out world, 2008 is going to RAWK!"
Jessie: "And I am really hip you guys. Not only do I have really hip platinum blonde hair and a cool cut, but now I have hip makeup and an ipod alarm clock to go with it. I'll give you guys makeovers after Christmas. I could do so much with your look."From our home to yours, Merry Christmas!
Christmas Tots
My dad sent these photos from his phone to remind me of yet three (four if you count my sister...and she counts!) more reasons it will be good to be home for the holidays. I can't wait to hold them all...on my lap...all at once (especially you Erin!). It could be like trying to manage a three-ringed circus.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Making a Scene
Thank God I don't get migraine headache's often! I feel sorry for anyone who has to go through that. Monday night I had a headache that just kept getting worse and worse. Finally, all I could do was go to bed, close my eyes and pray that I would stop feeling sick. I woke up Tuesday morning, still feeling sick and like I had been hit by a truck. I stayed home and slept and slept and slept. Then I woke up and watched the only thing on in the middle of the day - another horrible Lifetime Christmas movie. I've never watched the Lifetime channel until the past two weeks. What is it with me and Lifetime these days? Oh, and I watched the opening two minutes of Days of Our Lives. Marlena still looks the same age and I pretty much didn't recognize anyone else. When did teenagers take over the show?
Anywho, I was trying to psych myself up for an audition later in the day. It was for Chekhov scenes to be performed in late February and early March. I did my usual monologue, then they asked if I had prepared anything else, say classical. "Uh, what? Ummm, not so much. I mean, I do have a classical piece but I haven't done it in seven months and my recollection of all the words is, ummm, pitiful." "What is it?" "Shakespeare's Corialanus. I play Volumnia." (I actually really love this monologue) "Well, do it for us anyway, don't worry about the words." My thoughts - so you want me to make grunts and gesture? Okay, I'll just make it up. "Okay, here it goes...." I said probably half of the words. I remembered the beginning, a line from the middle and the very end. At the end I just raised my arms and said, "That's all I remember" and gave them the cutest smile I could muster. They actually asked me to stay and do a cold reading! I need to remember to forget my lines more often!
Lesson learned: ALWAYS prepare multiple pieces in case they ask you to perform something else. And, do whatever they ask, no matter how stupid you feel, it shows you're brave...and are willing to try anything. (within reason people).
Anywho, I was trying to psych myself up for an audition later in the day. It was for Chekhov scenes to be performed in late February and early March. I did my usual monologue, then they asked if I had prepared anything else, say classical. "Uh, what? Ummm, not so much. I mean, I do have a classical piece but I haven't done it in seven months and my recollection of all the words is, ummm, pitiful." "What is it?" "Shakespeare's Corialanus. I play Volumnia." (I actually really love this monologue) "Well, do it for us anyway, don't worry about the words." My thoughts - so you want me to make grunts and gesture? Okay, I'll just make it up. "Okay, here it goes...." I said probably half of the words. I remembered the beginning, a line from the middle and the very end. At the end I just raised my arms and said, "That's all I remember" and gave them the cutest smile I could muster. They actually asked me to stay and do a cold reading! I need to remember to forget my lines more often!
Lesson learned: ALWAYS prepare multiple pieces in case they ask you to perform something else. And, do whatever they ask, no matter how stupid you feel, it shows you're brave...and are willing to try anything. (within reason people).
Wisdom From a 17 Year Old
Yet another amazing post from my 17 year old brother, Andrew. His insights blow me away. And I too have chased the dogs around the yard in the dark trying to entice them with treats to get them inside the house. It's a right of passage at our house.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Sigh
Jessica Simpson, WHAT DID YOU DO TO THE COWBOYS?!! Take off that #9 jersey right now before you curse it.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Christmas Countdown
The snow turned this city upside down yesterday and it was fantastic! It was perfect for putting me in the Christmas spirit. Quiet snowfall, Christmas lights, dinner party with friends and Christmas music combine for a perfect holiday night.
Here's a little peek at our apartment decorated for Christmas. See the red bows? I made them! I did crafts!
I even have these adorable dish towels with embroidered Christmas trees, ornaments and Rudolph. Can someone please tell me why all dishtowels are terrible for drying dishes? Has anyone found the perfect dishtowel?
Here's the perfect winter meal I served, perhaps imperfectly, last night. Baked Macaroni and Cheese with roasted asparagus, wine and chocolate chip cookies hot out of the oven. It was even better served on my Christmas plates. I finally got to use them!
Another question: Why do recipes insist on using terms like "temper the egg" while explaining how to make something? I'm as uneducated as they come when it involves cooking. I kept my laptop in the kitchen to help me with terms that left me stumped.
The kid in me also came out on Saturday night. We braved the snow after dinner to play laser tag at a friend's birthday party. I'm usually a stellar player but found my score ranging around -725. I still claim that my gun wasn't working properly! Then Fernando and I found an open field of snow and pumped up by a U2 song, we sprinted across it, threw a few snowballs. A few moments later we realized it's FREEZING! But how often do you get to do something like that? You've got to embrace it while you can.
I hope you all had a wonderful weekend of Holiday parties, chocolate and being with friends.
Here's a little peek at our apartment decorated for Christmas. See the red bows? I made them! I did crafts!
I even have these adorable dish towels with embroidered Christmas trees, ornaments and Rudolph. Can someone please tell me why all dishtowels are terrible for drying dishes? Has anyone found the perfect dishtowel?
Here's the perfect winter meal I served, perhaps imperfectly, last night. Baked Macaroni and Cheese with roasted asparagus, wine and chocolate chip cookies hot out of the oven. It was even better served on my Christmas plates. I finally got to use them!
Another question: Why do recipes insist on using terms like "temper the egg" while explaining how to make something? I'm as uneducated as they come when it involves cooking. I kept my laptop in the kitchen to help me with terms that left me stumped.
The kid in me also came out on Saturday night. We braved the snow after dinner to play laser tag at a friend's birthday party. I'm usually a stellar player but found my score ranging around -725. I still claim that my gun wasn't working properly! Then Fernando and I found an open field of snow and pumped up by a U2 song, we sprinted across it, threw a few snowballs. A few moments later we realized it's FREEZING! But how often do you get to do something like that? You've got to embrace it while you can.
I hope you all had a wonderful weekend of Holiday parties, chocolate and being with friends.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Rah Rah Rass, Kick Them in the Other Knee
Cheerleading is a sport y'all! And it looks like I wasn't the only one sporting a short skirt, pom pons and a mega phone. Check out this article I saw on Yahoo's main page. I had no idea Aaron Spelling went to SMU.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
The Martian Chronicles
I'm currently reading a book I never expected to find myself reading. I believe it's actually a collection of writings in newspapers and magazines. It's The Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury. It's quite intriguing and a little weird, but then again, it is Ray Bradbury. Science Fiction fans have probably already read it. I have an audition for the play on Saturday. I'm not quite sure how they turn this book into a play but I'm sure it'll be interesting. I hope I get to the cold reading part of the audition. It'd be a boost of self-esteem.
Heroes4Heroes
Heroes4Heroes just got a mention on the national USA Today culture website, PopCandy! Congrats Chris!
Check out the Heroes4Heroes website to see the live art created at a recent fundraiser. Wish I were that talented!
Check out the Heroes4Heroes website to see the live art created at a recent fundraiser. Wish I were that talented!
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Under My Umbrella...Ella...Ella
Walking around a corner today I accidentally hit a man in the chest with my umbrella. I'm pretty sure he's my future husband.
Designers, Make It Work!
I not only have funny friends, but I also have very creative friends. Visit any of these websites to find gifts for friends and loved ones. You can't go wrong with any of these!
Robinson Lane: My friend from college, Christy Bourns, is incredibly talented! I just bought a present for someone who shall remain nameless in case they are reading my blog. They'd better be!
W.E. Giggle: Whitney Eoff is another one of my precious friends from college. Arkansas cranks out some talent y'all! She's got fabulous gift cards, holiday cards, stationary, etc. Check it out!
Virginia Bead: Ginny Mooney lives in Arkansas. Imagine that! She makes beautiful jewelry and has a heart of gold! She also made this necklace for her son, Eliot, who passed away. You can read more about their story, here.
Robinson Lane: My friend from college, Christy Bourns, is incredibly talented! I just bought a present for someone who shall remain nameless in case they are reading my blog. They'd better be!
W.E. Giggle: Whitney Eoff is another one of my precious friends from college. Arkansas cranks out some talent y'all! She's got fabulous gift cards, holiday cards, stationary, etc. Check it out!
Virginia Bead: Ginny Mooney lives in Arkansas. Imagine that! She makes beautiful jewelry and has a heart of gold! She also made this necklace for her son, Eliot, who passed away. You can read more about their story, here.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Fa La La La La...La La...La...La
This post is in honor of my sister, Erin, who would kick a cute puppy as long as she never had to hear Bruce Springstein's Santa Claus is Coming to Town ever again. It makes the Top 12 List of the worst Christmas songs ever. Justice served!
Click here to read the rest (thanks to Pop Candy). Is your favorite song on the list?
We're a Johnny Mathis Christmas Album family. I know others have Christmas Albums that bring back family memories. Anyone here a Tender Tennesse Christmas fan? Amy Grant? Anyone? I love that song. It brings me back. Mariah Carey's Christmas Album takes me back to my sophomore year of college and living with Elizabeth Lewis. All I Want for Christmas is You just doesn't get old. It had a nice revival a few years ago in the movie Love Actually. I can't help but watch that movie and want to run out and tell everyone I love them.
Click here to read the rest (thanks to Pop Candy). Is your favorite song on the list?
We're a Johnny Mathis Christmas Album family. I know others have Christmas Albums that bring back family memories. Anyone here a Tender Tennesse Christmas fan? Amy Grant? Anyone? I love that song. It brings me back. Mariah Carey's Christmas Album takes me back to my sophomore year of college and living with Elizabeth Lewis. All I Want for Christmas is You just doesn't get old. It had a nice revival a few years ago in the movie Love Actually. I can't help but watch that movie and want to run out and tell everyone I love them.
Christmas Delights
'Tis the season for really cheesy Christmas movies on Liftime and ABC Family. Most of the movies have something to do with Santa being ill or missing and unable to fulfill his duties, so his wayward child takes over and learns a life lesson which inevitably makes them a better person. Can I get a side of hot cocoa with that?
Last night Janell and I sat upon the couch next to the lit Christmas tree and proceeded to watch Mario Lopez and Melissa Joan Hart in Holiday in Handcuffs. Oh yes we did watch it! I'll be honest, I forced Janell to watch it with me. It was predictably cute. And predictably, Mario Lopez had a scene in which he happened to be without a shirt. Merry Christmas to me! A.C. Slater is in fine form. Dancing with the Stars treated you right! A note to the readers: I did NOT shed a tear.
Last night Janell and I sat upon the couch next to the lit Christmas tree and proceeded to watch Mario Lopez and Melissa Joan Hart in Holiday in Handcuffs. Oh yes we did watch it! I'll be honest, I forced Janell to watch it with me. It was predictably cute. And predictably, Mario Lopez had a scene in which he happened to be without a shirt. Merry Christmas to me! A.C. Slater is in fine form. Dancing with the Stars treated you right! A note to the readers: I did NOT shed a tear.
Friday, December 07, 2007
Katy's Headshots
Here they are ladies and gentlemen! The moment you've all been waiting for....
I have to say that my favorite is the third one because it just looks most like me - laughing at myself. I think the photographer had just asked me to say the word "douche." WHAT?! EW! NO! Doesn't the fourth one just want to make you say, "Oooooh, she's so mysterious...and slightly scary. I'm afraid she'll hurt me"? I love the blue background. It's an old garage in the photographer's neighborhood and I was sitting on greasy cement. Soooo sexy! I had to use it. Go ahead, admit it, the second one tempts you to stroke my head while saying, "Pretty bird. Pretty bird."
I think I have a few different looks to work with in these shots. Now onto getting an agent...
I have to say that my favorite is the third one because it just looks most like me - laughing at myself. I think the photographer had just asked me to say the word "douche." WHAT?! EW! NO! Doesn't the fourth one just want to make you say, "Oooooh, she's so mysterious...and slightly scary. I'm afraid she'll hurt me"? I love the blue background. It's an old garage in the photographer's neighborhood and I was sitting on greasy cement. Soooo sexy! I had to use it. Go ahead, admit it, the second one tempts you to stroke my head while saying, "Pretty bird. Pretty bird."
I think I have a few different looks to work with in these shots. Now onto getting an agent...
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
I Have Funny Friends
This is an email I received this morning from a dear friend of mine. I absolutely love the honesty and visual pictures (and yes, I did get her permission...and no it isn't Becky). The funny parts are bolded for those of you who are lazy or may have a boss lurking around your cube:
Things are well and I am ready for some downtime. I just need to get through the next two weeks and then I am home free until January 3rd, 2008!! Uhhhhh...just the sheer thought makes me want to tee tee in my Snow White panties!! I am sitting in St. Louis wasting yet more of life in an airport. I have done quite a few things this morning that have made me quite productive. I am sitting close to the Starbucks in a booth and getting the smells of yum coffee and the sounds of great tunes. For free too! Apparently the booth phone tells me it is 72 degrees in here.
I beg to differ and if that's the outside temperature, someone needs to exchange the 7 for a 3. Not pretty out there. Luckily my plane is coming in from PHX, so no worries about weather delays there. I am headed to Orlando until Friday.
Someone just ordered a gran-day. That was painful, kind of like when smart people would order fa-gi-das from me. Uhhhhh, they are not relatives to the VA-gina. (sometimes I crack myself up...or it may just be the lack of sleep that has put me over the edge...and that I need to spend some one on one time with me a potty, but don't feel I have the privacy I need.)
I had a disruptive booger this morning. I mean, paralyzing booger this morning that made me stop mid make up application in the public bathroom and search out a Puffs. It was quickly resolved. But I was concerned to see so much blood, which always takes me back to the episode of Little House on the Prarie where the cousin had bloody noses all the time and they determined he had an inoperable brain tumor (like they weren't ALL inoperable back in the those days!) So I've always associated bloody noses with brain tumors since that life changing episode. It disturbed me inards.
Only true friends will tell you about their boogs.
Things are well and I am ready for some downtime. I just need to get through the next two weeks and then I am home free until January 3rd, 2008!! Uhhhhh...just the sheer thought makes me want to tee tee in my Snow White panties!! I am sitting in St. Louis wasting yet more of life in an airport. I have done quite a few things this morning that have made me quite productive. I am sitting close to the Starbucks in a booth and getting the smells of yum coffee and the sounds of great tunes. For free too! Apparently the booth phone tells me it is 72 degrees in here.
I beg to differ and if that's the outside temperature, someone needs to exchange the 7 for a 3. Not pretty out there. Luckily my plane is coming in from PHX, so no worries about weather delays there. I am headed to Orlando until Friday.
Someone just ordered a gran-day. That was painful, kind of like when smart people would order fa-gi-das from me. Uhhhhh, they are not relatives to the VA-gina. (sometimes I crack myself up...or it may just be the lack of sleep that has put me over the edge...and that I need to spend some one on one time with me a potty, but don't feel I have the privacy I need.)
I had a disruptive booger this morning. I mean, paralyzing booger this morning that made me stop mid make up application in the public bathroom and search out a Puffs. It was quickly resolved. But I was concerned to see so much blood, which always takes me back to the episode of Little House on the Prarie where the cousin had bloody noses all the time and they determined he had an inoperable brain tumor (like they weren't ALL inoperable back in the those days!) So I've always associated bloody noses with brain tumors since that life changing episode. It disturbed me inards.
Only true friends will tell you about their boogs.
The Marathon Doesn't End at 26.2 Miles
For anyone who has ever run a marathon and can relate:
My favorite is the very last scene. Thanks Beck!
My favorite is the very last scene. Thanks Beck!
Tuesday, December 04, 2007
On Camera Class
Last night was my first On Camera class at The Acting Studio. It was a small class of six people and our teacher was fun, knowledgeable and a little wacky (he said so himself). He began by telling us some rules of the business: be on time, always call your agent back ASAP (I'm going to get me one of those), get colored headshots (check!) and don't take yourself too seriously (Oh, okay). As any good student would do, I took furious notes, nodded my head and smiled at the teacher. All was going well until about one hour into the class.
He had each one of us stand in front of the video camera, one at a time, and interviewed us for a few minutes. We had to stare into the camera while he talked to us from afar. Not only is it awkward to talk to a camera and not a person, but the entire class was staring at your face in television. My horror ended as soon as it began. I immediately felt comfortable when I began talking. I sat down. No harm done. Easy as pie. I allowed a second for my armpits and upperlip to dry off. Next thing I know our teacher rewinds the video and has us WATCH OURSELVES! That's like taking a steak knife and stabbing me in the eye and then pouring alcohol in it. Not only do we have to WATCH OURSELVES! but everyone has a piece of paper where they judge you and write down things about you and scrutinize every little bit of who you are as a person and characters you might represent. Here are some of the questions:
1. Name that would suit this person?
2. Age?
3. Gay/Straight?
4. Married/Single/Divorced
5. What magazines do they read?
6. What is their occupation?
7. How much do they make?
8. Education?
9. What roles would suit this person? (girl next door, jock, etc.)
10. What actors are they similar to?
11. Give a line of dialogue that this person's character might say.
For a perfectionist, being judged is just about the worst thing that can happen.
I lived folks. I am here yet another day.
Some celebs I resemble according to my classmates: Kristin Davis (Charlotte from Sex and the City),
Don't I look exactly like her?
Sandra Bullock (my teacher asked the person who made this suggestion, "where?" Thanks teach.) and Juliette Lewis (I'm not a punk rocker but I still think she's a great actress).
She's incredibly versatile and I need to tap into that side of me. I should also start wearing canary yellow unitards.
One person wrote for a line of dialogue for me: "I hope I get this right." Have they been talking to my therapist?
He had each one of us stand in front of the video camera, one at a time, and interviewed us for a few minutes. We had to stare into the camera while he talked to us from afar. Not only is it awkward to talk to a camera and not a person, but the entire class was staring at your face in television. My horror ended as soon as it began. I immediately felt comfortable when I began talking. I sat down. No harm done. Easy as pie. I allowed a second for my armpits and upperlip to dry off. Next thing I know our teacher rewinds the video and has us WATCH OURSELVES! That's like taking a steak knife and stabbing me in the eye and then pouring alcohol in it. Not only do we have to WATCH OURSELVES! but everyone has a piece of paper where they judge you and write down things about you and scrutinize every little bit of who you are as a person and characters you might represent. Here are some of the questions:
1. Name that would suit this person?
2. Age?
3. Gay/Straight?
4. Married/Single/Divorced
5. What magazines do they read?
6. What is their occupation?
7. How much do they make?
8. Education?
9. What roles would suit this person? (girl next door, jock, etc.)
10. What actors are they similar to?
11. Give a line of dialogue that this person's character might say.
For a perfectionist, being judged is just about the worst thing that can happen.
I lived folks. I am here yet another day.
Some celebs I resemble according to my classmates: Kristin Davis (Charlotte from Sex and the City),
Don't I look exactly like her?
Sandra Bullock (my teacher asked the person who made this suggestion, "where?" Thanks teach.) and Juliette Lewis (I'm not a punk rocker but I still think she's a great actress).
She's incredibly versatile and I need to tap into that side of me. I should also start wearing canary yellow unitards.
One person wrote for a line of dialogue for me: "I hope I get this right." Have they been talking to my therapist?
Chit Chat
I would like to thank Megan for having a birthday work celebration yesterday because it gave me yet ANOTHER opportunity to stuff my face with birthday cake.
Quote of the day:
"I'd kick a baby if they tickled me."
That quote was made by me. Let that be a warning to all you babies who like to tickle people. I turn VIOLENT! Don't say I didn't warn you.
Quote of the day:
"I'd kick a baby if they tickled me."
That quote was made by me. Let that be a warning to all you babies who like to tickle people. I turn VIOLENT! Don't say I didn't warn you.
Monday, December 03, 2007
Braces Please
Will someone please do me a favor? Wire my mouth shut!
It's nearly impossible to eat right this time of year. Someone's always having a birthday and naturally that involves birthday cake. Someone makes you cookies and you can't turn down a gift...or cookies. You want to drink hot chocolate from your cute Christmas mug. A friend invites you to a steak house...for FREE...and you have to eat your weight in creamy mashed potatoes and carrot cake. I drink decaf coffee afterwards because that's what those skinny europeans do, at least I think they do. I'm assuming and praying that it will help with the metabolism. It isn't helping.
It's time for an intervention. You know what goes nicely with an intervention? Creme Brulee.
It's nearly impossible to eat right this time of year. Someone's always having a birthday and naturally that involves birthday cake. Someone makes you cookies and you can't turn down a gift...or cookies. You want to drink hot chocolate from your cute Christmas mug. A friend invites you to a steak house...for FREE...and you have to eat your weight in creamy mashed potatoes and carrot cake. I drink decaf coffee afterwards because that's what those skinny europeans do, at least I think they do. I'm assuming and praying that it will help with the metabolism. It isn't helping.
It's time for an intervention. You know what goes nicely with an intervention? Creme Brulee.
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