A Clear Channel - Day 225

I have always admired the career of Cicely Tyson. I had the opportunity to meet her on one of my stand-in jobs. I watched her rehearse and when she was finished, I decided to introduce myself in the hopes of getting some words of wisdom from this legendary artist. I walked up to her, "Ms. Tyson?". She turned toward me very attentively and I continued, "I'm nobody important but I just wanted to say....." She instantly cut me off, "Baby, never ever say you're nobody. You ARE somebody important and don't you ever forget it." I tried to laugh it off and continue, "Oh I know but..." She turned her head and went on about her business. She was through with me. Words of wisdom is what I wanted and words of wisdom is what I got even though it wasn't in the way I had imagined. And I WILL never forget it. Lesson? Words have power, you are what you speak, Be A Star Where You Are.

A Clear Channel - Day 224

One of my favorite movies of all time is Slingblade. The first time I saw it at screening, I was blown away by the story and particularly the brilliant work of the then unknown Billy Bob Thornton. To this day, I can watch that film over and over again and have become quite a BBT fan. Love him in Bad Santa!!
One day, not too long ago I was hanging out at Barnes and Noble at The Grove and some guy bumped into me. I turned around ready to give attitude and found myself nose to nose with Billy Bob himself. All of a sudden I was the one who said excuse me and he replied with a twinkle in his eye and the sexiest smile on his face, "I'm sorry darlin'".
That guy in Slingblade is creepy but the real Billy Bob Thornton is fine!!! He can bump into me any time.

A Clear Channel - Day 223

Someone once said everyone has a six degrees of Kevin Bacon story so here's mine: I worked on The Closer with his wife Kyra Sedgwick and their daughter shopped for the clothes I wore on the show. She has great taste and did an excellent job.
That's it. Short and sweet. The end.

A Clear Channel - Day 222

Sunday I visited the UP Church in Inglewood, CA where Della Reese is the pastor. I had been wanting to go there for a long time and since I am currently without a church home, I feel a bit of a void in that area of my life. I prefer to have a spiritual institution to give my tithes to. Not to mention that the service there starts at 1PM. Now that's my kind of church!
As I sat in the congregation, I was reminded of the time when I was a professional game show contestant. I worked for various production companies trying out developer's ideas in "run-throughs" all over town. Sometimes we would even get to the pilot stage where you could really make a little money. One show I worked on was based on the premise of trying to identify the true relationships of the guests. A celebrity guest had one person on either side of them. One person was who they said they were and the other was an imposter. Della Reese had recently married Franklin Lett. Asking us a series of questions, the contestants were supposed to figure out which was true, was I her daughter or was Franklin Lett her husband? One of the questions asked of Mr. Lett was, "Where did you take your wife on your honeymoon?" He had to think about it for a minute which led the contestants to believe that I was actually Della's daughter. Later we found out that Franklin had to take that long pause because they travel so much he couldn't remember which trip was the honeymoon. Niiiice. Anyway, I asked Mr. Lett in church on Sunday if he remembered that and he said no, so even though I plan to visit the UP church again I don't think I will bother to tell Rev. Della that I was (only for a brief moment) known as, Carlease Reese.

A Clear Channel - Day 221

Back in the day, I was a traffic co-ordinator at J. Walter Thompson Advertising. I was in my early 20's and loved all the perks that came along with the long hours and hard work. Two hour lunches,limo rides, parties, Christmas bonuses, amazing gifts from vendors and the occasional glimpse of a celebrity. One day I was getting into the elevator at 420 Lexington Avenue with my friend Ellen Bonta and we were being silly as usual. When the doors opened there stood Ossie Davis. Filling up the whole elevator. I stopped dead in my tracks, "Ossie Davis." He looked down at me and said in the deepest voice with crisp articulation, "Is it permitted to speak in the elevator?" Ding. The elevators doors opened and Ellen & I ran out giggling like little school girls. That must have made quite an impression on Mr. Davis. Or maybe he was used to it.

A Clear Channel - Day 220

During the rehearsal period of the one of The Academy Award shows I worked on, I was roaming around as usual checking out the surroundings. One of my favorites places to hang out is the green room. It's always so nicely decorated, has the best food and all the stars come through there at one time or another. So there I am strolling through the backstage area on my way to the green room and I see this tall Black man walking toward me. Nobody else was around. As we get closer to one another I see that it's Sidney Poiter. Now I'm not usually star-struck but I think at that moment I gasped internally and held my breath. While still walking toward him, I started to veer away from him on a diagonal. He started to diagonally walk directly towards me. I thought, "What is he doing?" Now, I'm almost up against the wall and he stops right in front of me, extends his hand and says, "Hi, I'm Sidney." I looked up at him, opened my mouth and all that air I was holding in came bursting out. "Hiiiiiiiiiiiii" was all I could say. And that was my Sidney Poiter moment.

A Clear Channel - Day 219

Before I was a stand-in on award shows, I was a talent escort. Once. A talent escort is a volunteer position and duties include being assigned to an artist and making sure he, she or they are in the right place at the right time. You greet them when they arrive at the venue, give them their credentials and take them on a walk through to show them their dressing rooms, where their assigned seat is in the audience, the backstage area, press room etc. Basically you're a baby sitter. At The Soul Train Awards in the late '90's, once the show got started talent, escorts and all sorts of people were scrambling all over the place to make the magic happen. At one point Quincy Jones had won a award, went up on stage to accept it and was supposed to immediately go to the press room for photos and interviews. Someone noticed he didn't have his escort with him and he was briskly walking in the wrong direction. I was told to grab him and lead him the right way, so I briskly hurried after him. "Mr. Jones, Mr. Jones, I have to take to to press." He stopped, turned around and said (nicely), "Can I pee pee first?" I looked up and we were right in front of the mens room at The Shrine Auditorium. So there I stood waiting for Quincy Jones to pee pee. When he came out of the restroom, I didn't have the nerve to ask him if he had washed his hands, but I did check his fly.

A Clear Channel - Day 218

Lately I have been enjoying the work of Diane Ladd. I've been studying her range throughout about 3 decades. A homework assignment I had was to watch Ellen Burstyn in Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore, but I found Diane Ladd's work more interesting. Then I watched her in Rambling Rose....Loved it!! Her daughter, Laura Dern was in both of those films....really nice work in Rambling Rose from the both of them. I can't help but wonder what it's like to come from an acting family and actually get to work together. Now I'm watching a Stephen King series called Kingdom Hospital which I don't remember on TV but all 15 episodes can be rented through Netflix. Here is Ms. Ladd's work about 30 years after Alice.... She is a psychic in this show and still just as charming and solid as ever. This is also my favorite genre being a Stephen King fan and all....the series is dark and humorous all at the same time. For me, the lesson here is sustainability. Even though we are not in the limelight all the time, we are always working. You never know when we will resurface, but the point is to stay in the game. When you're good, there's a place in this business at every age.
I've got about 4 more episodes to watch til the end of the series and then I'll probably go looking for more lessons from my Big Sis Diane Ladd.

A Clear Channel - Day 217

Well Tyler Perry finally has my attention. I've been aware of his movies (even seen a few of them), his plays (never wanted to see one of them) and his TV shows. Tonight I saw For Colored Girls based on Ntozake Shange's work, For Colored Girls Who Have Considered Suicide When The Rainbow Is Enuf. I saw that piece on Broadway back in the '70's and performed in 2 productions here in Los Angeles in the '80's. What Tyler Perry has done with this work is nothing short of brilliant, masterful, magic. I love the way he took it apart and put it back together seamlessly. Even though the actresses in the film still represented one particular color, no one had one whole monologue exactly the way Ntozake wrote it and that worked for me. Director Charlie Hall did something like that in the version I did at West Coast Ensemble. He passed away from AIDS in 1995 while I was riding my bicycle 573 miles in the CA AIDS Ride. I bring this up because Mr. Perry incorporated story lines to connect the pieces that included brothers on the down-low, HIV, abortion, domestic violence, rape and murder. Not very pretty subjects but extremely relevent topics.
The relationships between the women were so clear and the performances were breath-taking to say the least. It made my heart sing to watch Tessa Thompson (Nyla/lady in purple) in this film. I was the Nurse to her Juliet at Theatre @ Boston Court when she was fresh out of high school. I knew then that she was destined for great things in this business. She is one of the sweetest people I know, extremely talented and so grounded for someone her age. It showed as she put on her big girl pants and held her own with this A list cast of Blacktresses. It literally brought tears to my eyes, not just because of her work, but I am so happy for her.
I also thought it was very clever to give some of the poetry to the men and even knowing the poems as well as I do, the placement of them were not predictable.
So Mr. Perry, I would never beg you for a role in one of your projects, but I certainly won't turn it down if you'd ask me. It will be interesting to see where your career goes from here.

A Clear Channel - Day 216

Watched two Ellen Burstyn films: Alice Doesn't Live Here Anymore and Resurrection. Even though she won the Oscar, for Alice..., I felt more connected to the Flo character played by Diane Ladd. I liked Ellen's work in Resurrection much more. The role was extremely challenging and I thought she did a brilliant job. It is the type of role I look forward to adding to my body of work. Ellen was flawless in my opinion. She is like a beautiful, soft-spoken, seemingly shy 2nd cousin that everybody likes until you really get to know her. The cousin you see at family reunions and gush over but as soon as they walk away the gossip starts. And Lord, when you start peeling back the layers of that onion.... Diane Ladd, on the other hand is like that "tell-it-like-it-is" older sister I never had. Nothing phony about her, she's gonna give it to you straight. She would be a big sister that would teach you the ropes. I'm anxious to see her work in Rambling Rose.

A Clear Channel - Day 215

It's been said that one way to become successful at achieving your dreams is to hang around people who are already where you want to be. Sometimes that's not possible because some of the greatest lessons can be learned from people who have passed on. Thank God for books, recordings and movies. I have been asked by my mentor to study actresses that have gone before me who have brought to the table the same qualities I possess. One of these actresses is Melina Mercouri, the Greek actress who gives a brilliant performance in Never On Sunday. She plays a prostitute with such style and grace the men not only respect her, they fall in love with her. The first thing you notice about Melina is her eyes. Very large and dramatic to say the least and she know how to work them.
Her story is a fascinating one. She was married to the director of Never On Sunday, Jules Dassin. He built his career around her. She worked in seven films of his until she retired to go into politics.
Never On Sunday released in 1960, was film noir, in black and white. I also watched A Dream of Passion (1978) where Melina worked with another one of my archetypes, Ellen Burstyn. She too has amazing eyes, but more on her later. Melina has been quoted as saying that she did not enjoy working with Ms. Burstyn and my mentor did mention in class that Ellen Burstyn was not a particularly nice person. Interesting...since I found so many aspects of her life fascinating.
Anyway, back to Melina Mercouri. She was 40 years old when she did Never On Sunday and 58 when she did A Dream of Passion. Greeks like Black people must age very well because she looked the same to me and ...Passion was in color! She's a stong and powerful performer although I enjoyed her more in NOS. Passion was a little over the top for me, but then again it was probably directed that way. Her husband was screenwriter, producer and director on that one.
Melina is also a singer and has a remarkable scene in Never On Sunday where she laments the life she about to give up. This may be the way I return to singing professionally...in one of the roles I book as an actress as well.
Ilya, Melina's character in Never On Sunday, holds her own, does things her way, empowers others and has fun doing it. She is loved and respected by all. That's what I bring to table.

A Clear Channel - Day 214

Two words. Russell Simmons. We grew up in the same neighborhood (Hollis, Queens), went to the same college and rode the same train to CCNY up in Harlem. It was on one of those old rickety E trains that I remember sitting with him and my friend Carmen and he said something I will never forget as long as I live.
Russell has risen above his seemingly dismal circumstances to become one of the richest men in show business. He parties with the rich and famous in the Hamptons, always has a beautiful woman on his arm and gives money away to help others. Yet he still wears a baseball cap. If you saw him in the street and didn't know who he was, you probably wouldn't even look twice.
We hung out big time in Finley Hall on the campus of CCNY, basically just partying. He's always been a nice guy. I've only seen him a couple of times out here on the west coast and never mentioned his comment to me. But I can't let it go. I need to have a meeting with him.
This is what he said to me on that rickety E train back in the day: "Stick with me Carlease, I'll make you a star." Carmen and I looked at each other and chuckled. Damn. What did I learn from that? Words are powerful. So are intentions and when a person believes in themselves they can make anything happen. Russell knew what he wanted and was not afraid to go after his dreams. He fearlessly connected with the people he wanted to emulate and learned from them. And they helped make him a star. He now helps people all over the world with his philanthropy which is one of the things I admire about him the most. That is definitely a goal of mine as well. But first, I need someone to get me Russell Simmons on the line so that I can find out if the statue of limitations is still open on that comment he made to me on that old rickety E train back in the day.

A Clear Channel - Day 213

Let me introduce you to another actress friend of mine. Do you remember the TV show ROC with Charles Dutton? His wife was played by the fabulous Ella Joyce. I know Ella from New York and when we met, she had an entirely different name. No, you won't get it out of me, I've been sworn to secrecy. Ella Joyce is one fierce sista. There were about four of us NY actresses that all came out to LA around the same time and ironically got married around that same time also. Phyllis Yvonne Stickney, Vanessa Bell Calloway, Ella and me. Phyllis, Vanessa and I all worked on a play called STRIVER'S ROW at the New Heritage Theater in Harlem. It was there that I saw Ella Joyce in another play and enjoyed her work immensely. We became friends and almost did a play together at Black Spectrum in Queens but I didn't accept the role because I was moving out to L.A. Ella moved out a little bit later but she had lived here before. Out of the four of us, Ella and Vanessa are still married, Phyllis is with husband #2 and I'm working on husband #2.
Ella's husband, the talented and handsome Dan Martin, directed the 20 minute version of my solo show, FIFTY! It Doesn't Look This Good On Everybody. We've all remained friends over the years. They are always on my guest list for parties and shows and have been extremely supportive.
As an actress, Ella is a joy to watch. Her work is impeccable. Every single detail is well thought out, she doesn't miss a thing. She has written a solo show about Rosa Parks called A ROSE AMONG THORNS and it is brilliant. She has created a piece she can perform for the rest of her life. She's always popping up on my TV screen.
The lesson I have learned from her is tenacity, being in this business for the long haul. Always creating and knowing your worth as an artist. She is a strong and powerful sista. Definitely a force to be reckoned with on stage and off!!

A Clear Channel - Day 212

You know you have made it in Hollywood when people stop you on the street because they recognize your work. This is happening to me more and more lately. So much so, I had to do a bit about it in my comedy act. I talk about the person who came up to me and said, "I know you, you're an actress. I just saw your commercial. Aren't you the Pine Sol Lady?" When the audience stops laughing, I say, "That's right baby. It's the Power of Pine Sol." More laughter. What most people don't know is, the Pine Sol Lady (Diane Amos) is a very good friend of mine. We met at the Phoenix airport about 10 years ago when we were both scheduled to work as comics at a resort in Sonora Bay, Mexico. We hung out together for that whole week and have been buddies ever since. She actually lives in San Francisco, but comes to Los Angeles frequently to do Pine Sol spots and other work. Every time she's in town I feel like I'm on vacation. We do all my favorite things: hang out at hotels, eat, shop, laugh and play cards. She likes this card game called Slick which nobody else I know plays and I've been trying to beat her at it for years now. We always get together with her other girlfriends and we just have the best time. Diane is one of the most grounded and for real sistas I know. With all of her celebrity status she is never phony or pretentious. When we're together we talk about real life stuff: our families, some politics, current events or whatever is going on in the moment. We hardly ever talk about the business, toot our own horns and we definitely don't name drop or gossip. It's so refreshing to have a friend like that in this industry. I always know where I stand with her. This sista does not play.
What I learn from Diane is that you can make it in this industry and live a centered life. She is very sure about who she is: a wife, a mother, an actress, a good friend and so much more.
I am grateful to be a part of her sisterhood. Now that's the Power of Pine Sol baby.

A Clear Channel - Day 211

There is one person I know who probably doesn't have the same Whoopi Goldberg stories that I have and that person is my dear friend Sherri Shepherd. She and Whoopi work together on The View. I met Sherri in a stand-up comedy class when she was still working in a law firm a loooooong time ago. I cannot tell you how proud and happy I am for all of her accomplishments. I remember when she didn't know stage left from stage right and now, after many series regular roles, and hours of stand up comedy here she is co-hosting The View. Most actresses would love to have that opportunity and would be very satisfied, but Sherri has more energy than anyone I know. She can simultaneously work on The View, do a play a night or host a Game Show or even tape her own sitcom and hold it down as a mother as well. She is amazing and I admire that fearless quality about her. I was so blessed to get a role in the pilot episode of the Sherri show. It was a very special surreal type moment for both of us especially since the show was about her life. We were not acting in our scene...it was the real deal.
Sherri is very unique and deserves all of her success. She has a way of making everyone feel special. She's tough & fearless yet soft & sexy all at the same time. And funny! It seems like nothing ever gets her down. And I know she loves the Lord. When we met, she was a Jehovah's Witness and I think she had her first Thanksgiving dinner with me and some friends.
She has come a long way and I know there's more to come.
SHERRI SHEPHERD, I Love You Girl!

A Clear Channel - Day 210

There were less than a handful of celebrities that I thought I would love to meet. I've never really been star struck, but there is one star I always wanted to have 10 minutes of quality time with. She is smart, funny, famous and rich. I would simply ask her how she got started and if she had any words of wisdom for an up and coming actress like myself. This person was Whoopi Goldberg. I got way more than 10 minutes of her time when I stood in for her on a season of Hollywood Squares and on at least 2 Academy Award shows. I worked with her for so many days I've lost count and yet I've never had a meaningful conversation with her. She barely acknowledged my presence except for a few rude remarks for no apparent reason.
Here are my highlights of working with Ms. Goldberg:
~ One day while sitting in her center square during rehearsal (which was my job) the host asked me to do my best Whoopi Goldberg impersonation. I just laughed it off. He said, come on...why not? I then heard a voice come from the darkness say, "She's scared." Sh*t. That was Whoopi's voice. No Whoopi, I thought, I'm an actress not an impressionist.
~ At an Academy Award rehearsal during the time she was dating Frank Langella, I had to step off the stage so that Whoopi could rehearse her opening monologue. I was sitting in the front row and Frank was sitting next to me. He was so friendly. We were chatting...about Whoppi mostly and he made me laugh out loud. Whoopi glanced down at us. Sh*t again. That's all I needed...to get my butt beat by Whoopi Goldberg thinking I was trying to steal her man.
~ The one and only time Whoopi warmly acknowledged me was at her book signing at Book Soup. (I have the picture and the book to prove it). The next time I saw her at work she was talking to a friend of mine so I approached her to say thank you and she turned to me and said in a very nasty tone, "Can I help you with something?"
You know what Whoopi, maybe you're right. People who are not nice do scare me because I don't trust them.

A Clear Channel - Day 209

I've been blogging for the past few days about being a stand in on award shows and I suddenly realized that some of you may not know what that is. A stand in is a union actor who is hired to replace the stars of the show in rehearsal for lighting, sound and blocking purposes. This is not be confused with a seat filler. Those people just fill the seats of celebrities during the show so that on camera the viewing audience never sees an empty seat. Seat fillers are used when a celebrity has to present an award, after they accept an award or when they are performing. The problem is, sometimes those seat fillers don't want to give the celebrity their seats back!!
A stand in's job can be very grueling. That's why the celebrities don't do all the rehearsals. Award show rehearsals usually go on for a week before the live taping. Celebrity presenters come in once to read the monitor, learn their entrances & exits and where to stand to deliver their lines. The musical acts usually rehearse all on one day with a couple of other musical acts in the show. The stand ins are utilized all throughout these rehearsals wherever needed or sometimes we are assigned a specific celebrity for that particular show.
I started doing stand in in work because it was fun to be behind the scenes and to meet a bunch of celebrities. Just a couple of negative aspects in my opinion: stand ins are not treated very nicely by the production staff and some of the stand ins actually believed they were the stars they were standing in for. Yikes.
I said I would stop when it ceased to be fun. I can't remember the last time I worked as a stand in.

A Clear Channel - Day 208

I heard Dave Ramsey say on his radio program recently, that if you really admire a particular celebrity, you probably shouldn't meet them because you will most likely be disappointed. Enter Luther Vandross. I was working as a stand-in on the Soul Train Awards and Patti LaBelle, Luther Vandross and Gladys Knight were the hosts. I was standing in for Patti, so at one point all four of us were backstage in a little tiny curtained off area about the size of a small closet. Gladys and I chatted about how the old school artists where nicer than young newbies on the music scene and I enjoyed the banter between the three of them. Sharing stories, laughing, having a good time. Wow. At one point, Gladys was out on the stage rehearsing and Patti got called to hair and make-up so it was just me and Luther sitting there. With the ladies absent, it got quiet suddenly. But not for long. Anyone that knows me knows that I cannot be in the presence of another human being and not at least attempt to have a conversation with them. I was not in the presence of just any human being, this was Luther Vandross I was sharing an armrest with! So I politely turned to him and said, "You must be lonely now that Patti left." He then turned to me and said in a very condescending manner, "Are you talking to me or are you asking me a question?" all the while staring at me with his lips pursed as if waiting for an answer. I just stood up and walked away. Of course that bothered me for the rest of the day. After all, I had every one of his albums since Never Too Much on vinyl and CD. His newest one was about to drop soon so when I saw him later, I mustered up a smile and told him I was anxiously awaiting the release. He then said, "Good. I can order that new carpet now." Nice try Luther but I can't get that first comment out of my mind. I pictured a very different scenario for our first meeting.
I did buy that next CD but haven't been as much of a fan as I once was. Luther was an amazing talent with a one of a kind voice. I've heard he can be difficult to work with and I've seen him go off on a stage manager a couple of times so I sincerely hope he is resting in peace. He's left quite a legacy. As my tribute to him, I sing a little bit of Dance With My Father in my solo show.

A Clear Channel - Day 207

Went to see FELA on Broadway with Patti LaBelle last night. As I watched her in her scene stealing performance, I was reminded of the other time I saw her on Broadway in YOUR ARM'S TOO SHORT TO BOX WITH GOD with Al Green. It was so funny when Al's mic went out and Patti, being the giving performer that she is, grabbed his head and pulled it toward her chest so he could be heard through her mic. What a sight to see Al Green singing the title song into Patti LaBelle's right boob. A bouncing right boob at that since Patti was expressively jumping up and down in the spirit.
Many years later when I was working as a stand-in on awards shows, I had several opportunities to meet and work with her in rehearsals. One of the things that most impressed me is that on the morning before hosting a major award show she would throw down in the kitchen. Patti could cook anywhere. She didn't need to be in her own kitchen. She would cook in the morning and then bring it to the Shrine auditorium and invite us to her dressing room for a taste. Long before she wrote her cookbooks, we would ask her to teach us how to make that famous potato salad. I'm sure one of my friends has the original napkin we wrote the recipe on. I used to ask her how she could cook like that in the morning, rehearse in the afternoon and host the show that night. She told me she just loves to cook and was so proud to say that she gave Luther Vandross his first set of pots. I also asked her how she looked so fabulous all the time. Patti LaBelle is always camera ready. She admitted she loves to dress. She said if I ever saw her in a jogging suit I would know she had snapped.
The last time I worked with her was at Long Beach Pride. She did a Friday night solo concert and I was the emcee. We all know Patti loves to kick off her shoes, so when I went on after her to close the show, there was one of her shoes just laying there in the middle of the stage. I tried to steal it but she busted me so I had to give it back.
Patti LaBelle is an amazing talent, a true DIVA and a really nice lady.

A Clear Channel - Day 206

On Saturday night, I went to Black Spectrum to see Melba Moore in concert. It was a very significant evening for me since Black Spectrum Theatre is where I began my acting career. That's right. Right here in St. Albans, Queens on Linden Blvd. I originally went there to take an acting class but immediately started to get cast in productions. One of these shows became a big hit and ran Off Broadway for about nine months. The play was called Deadwood Dick, Legend of the West. It was a delightful musical about actual Black cowboys. Now, about 32 years later, I was so grateful to be able to give something back. Carl Clay, artistic director and founder of the theatre has written a book about its history and I got my autographed copy on Saturday. A little birdie told me that he said some really nice things about me in it.
Melba Moore put on quite a show the other night. It was more than a concert, it was a one woman show with story, music, characters and more. It was so nice to finally get a chance to tell her she is one of the reasons I became a professional actress. After my parents took me to see Purlie on Broadway back in the day, I came home, bought the album and learned every song verbatim so that I could sing along at the top of my lungs over and over and over again. I was Lutiebelle Etta Mae Jenkins until my parents (and the neighbors) just couldn't take it anymore. I later did a scene from Purlie in the only college acting class I ever took and I sang I Got Love in a Valentine's Day cabaret this year. I've been doing that song for auditions for years now. Melba Moore is an amazing talent. It was an honor to see her up close and personal in my theatrical home.

A Clear Channel - Day 205

Been so caught up these last couple of days I haven't had a chance to blog and I'm not too happy about that but I'm about to flip the script anyway. The title of this 365 blog experiment is called A Clear Channel, but there's more. I went to a year end career coaching session in December where we created my personal theme called, A Clear Channel To A Household Name. Hope you enjoy the ride.

A Clear Channel - Day 204

Another pouring rain storm in the middle of the night in Hollis Queens. I love it!
Had an interesting day yesterday. A family friend who was doing my Mom and I a favor, said something to me that hurt my little feelings. I felt she was out of line. Although I've love to get this off my chest and move on, I realize I don't want to get into this now because anyone can read this blog. I'm starting to censor what I say here and I don't like that feeling. Originally, I didn't care who was reading it but I'm changing my mind. I still have a goal of 365 blogs. Let's see if I make it.

A Clear Channel - Day 203

Danny and I have been playing house for about a week now, but last night we cooked our first meal together. That was interesting. I really need to work on my collaboration skills in the kitchen. I kinda wanted to do it my way. I'm used to either cooking for myself or having someone cook for me. When he wanted to add more paprika and sliced onion to my baked chicken, I had a bit of an attitude. That's not how my Mama did it. That's not like MY baked chicken recipe. What a brat I am. That chicken was slammin'!! And so was the brown rice, the corn, the roasted veggies and the salad. Now that I got over that hurdle, it will be better next time although I noticed we haven't made dinner plans for tonight yet. Let's see what happens. I also feel a little torn between two households but that's another story. All I know is my Beloved didn't request any biscuits with his meal last night. Whew!

A Clear Channel - Day 202

I just realized I haven't checked my email since I've been here in New York. That's one week! Yikes. That's one of the reasons I bought this laptop. Obviously, I've been making time to blog, check out facebook and look up a couple of addresses on mapquest. This week, I've really got to get down to business with my Mom. With Danny being off from work last week I split my time between the two of them more than I thought I would. My Mom is not into the "one big happy family" concept so some activities have to be separate. Danny and I did take Mom to church yesterday. She looked beautiful!! All three of us saw people we hadn't seen in years. Very nice. I think I found the place where I will send my tithes until I find a church home in L.A. In the meantime New Jerusalem Baptist Church feels like home to me.
After church Danny and I went into the city to a jazz club. My friend Andrea Meyerson was in town from L.A. working on a documentary. She's been working on this project for a while and I wanted to support her. Besides, we had never hung out in New York together and I wanted her to meet Danny. Andrea and her partner Maureen gave him the thumbs up and that means a lot to me. The reviews are in...he's an all around good guy...but I knew that already.
I was pretty tired after all that, but there was one more stop. We had to drive to Brooklyn to pick up my lost wallet. We met Adrienne and her lovely family at their home, chatted a bit and was on our way. I hope we will keep in touch. Adrienne is my new best friend. Now I'm going to go put my wallet back together or probably throw most of the contents away. I know I'm going to be wondering from now on....what do the contents of a person's wallet reveal to a perfect stranger? Hmmmmmm?

A Clear Channel - Day 201

What a day. God is good. So I experienced Coney Island with my Beloved. I could blog about how I was only there to support him because I really didn't feel like I fit in with these people dancing in a trance like state to house music I didn't recognize. I really wanted to get into it and join them but I just wasn't feeling it. Danny was totally enjoying himself as usual (he talks about going to Coney Island every weekend) and I certainly didn't want to sit there with my lips all poked out. The last thing I wanted was to ruin his fun time with his friends. And then.....we took a walk on the beach to watch the sunset, then he asked one of the drummers if I could play his djembe, then we hustled together just like back in the day. He did everything to make the evening enjoyable for me. I don't consider myself high maintenance but I know I can be a little grumpy at times. I'm so thankful my sweetie brings out the best in me. We really had a good time. On the walk to the car, I just had to get some popcorn so we stopped a little place right down the street from Nathans were I just had to get a hot dog a few hours earlier. We get the popcorn, walk to the car and drive off. About half way home I discover I had lost my wallet. We drove all the way back to the popcorn place, retraced our steps....nothing. Fortunately, it wasn't the wallet with all the important stuff. Whoever found it would get some money, my SAG card, insurance cards and a bunch of junk I should have thrown away a long time ago. Oh well, I was really working on letting go even though I had a fantasy of getting a facebook message from some nice person who found my wallet. My phone seemed to have a lot of activity going on so I checked my messages just the keep my mind off my missing stuff and the first message was from an angel. Her name is Adrienne. She found my wallet!! On the corner at Nathans. She and her family were coming from dinner. She googled me and called about three different numbers after finding my webpage. It was so cute because the first thing she said was..."don't get too excited, there's no ID, drivers license or credit cards". After explaining to her that those items were in a different wallet, she asked me if anyone from Hot Java had called me. (Lord this is a long story). My friend Jack had called because he got a call in California that my wallet had just been found in Brooklyn and he thought I had gotten mugged. So ironic, I had texted Jack some pics of Nathans earlier just to make his mouth water.
I will be meeting Adrienne tomorrow or during the week. Oh, did I tell you she read yesterday's blog so she knew the number she was calling was indeed attached to me cause I blogged about going to Coney Island. It's so nice to know there are decent, honest people in the world.
So how was Coney Island? Awesome. Between texting, google, blogs and mobile phones social networking took on a whole new meaning for me tonight.
Thanks Adrienne!!!

A Clear Channel - Day 200

Day 200. Wow. Only 165 blogs to go (details later). I wish I could say it was 200 consecutive days, but I've missed a few especially lately. My ritual had been to blog every night before bed but here in New York staying with my sweetie pie it just hasn't happened that way. Hmmmmm, I wonder why...
Just had lunch with my Mom and my god brother. What a god send he has been. We had a little business to take care of and now I'm off to Coney Island with Danny. He is crazy about Coney Island and so proud to be a Coney Island dancer. I'll probably have a good time, but I'm really not as excited about it as he is. I don't know why that is, I haven't been to Coney Island in years....it's a landmark. Maybe after today I will feel differently. I'll let you know.
Yesterday, we had a real family day. Danny took me and my Mom grocery shopping and then I came home to fix dinner for the three of us. My Mom requested my potato salad and I also made roasted veggies and a slammin' meatloaf. I totally miscalculated the timing of the meatloaf. It was still raw inside when I served the rest of the meal, so we pretended to be vegetarians last night. Every thing was delicious and we'll have meatloaf sandwiches tomorrow.
I'm feeling more and more optimistic about my Mom's situation every day. No matter what, everthing's gonna be alright.
Off to Coney Island to do the hustle....do do do do do de do do do...do the hustle...

A Clear Channel - Day 199

What a fun day. Caught up on some phone calls and set up some meetings for my Mom.
Tonight I went to the first rehearsal of the Brooklyn Interdenominational Choir. My beloved Danny has been excited about this choir for months. After sitting in the back of tonight's rehearsal I can see why. There were about 100 singers there (mostly sopranos) and the choir director (Pastor Frank Haye) wants it to be 200 strong. There was such great energy in the room and I love Pastor Haye's style. It promises to be a blessing to the entire city of New York. They will be doing TV appearances, traveling and going into the studio to record. I can tell you right now, if I were here in the NYC I would totally be a member of this choir. They learned three songs tonight and I was singing all the parts! (Quietly). I felt like I had been to church.
Hmmmm...I think I miss singing.

A Clear Channel - Day 198

Did you miss me? It's been a couple of days since I've let you in on the not so secret life of Carlease. I've been traveling, visiting and getting massages.
I'm here in New York with my Mom and my man and things are going quite well. My Mom is running around like she never had knee surgery but I am still concerned about some things. I'm learning to take it one day at a time. I have a wonderful support team and we are working it all out. It was fun to accompany my Mom to her hair appointment yesterday. I've got my eye on her big time.
Last night, I treated Danny to a massage. No, I did not give him one, I took him to a professional!! My dear friend Donna M. Webb (google her on the web) retired from her first profession at an early age and has been studying massage therapy which seems to be leading her into other healing arts. She is amazing and I am so proud of her. You know you've had a good massage when you fall asleep on the table and then go home and fall out again. Unbeknownst to me, this was Danny's first professional massage and he was not disappointed. How lucky is he to be right here in Queens near Donna. Me? I'm trying to figure how to move her out to L.A.!!! She even gave us tips so we can give each other massages. She taught us just enough but not too much. We know where we have to go to get the real deal. In either case, ya'll must check her out and tell all your friends in the New York area. She has a beautiful set-up in Jamaica, Queens and so worth it. She's able to target your problems areas and make the proper adjustment without even saying a word.
Donna, your hands are like magic and I will be back so you can work on my back!! Danny thanks you too!
Make your appointment ya'll....Donna M. Webb, Licensed Massage Therapist (Google her NOW!)

A Clear Channel - Day 197

Now that I've gotten some important business out of the way, I am relaxed and ready to go to New York to see my Mom and my man!! I just finished producing, hosting and headlining my comedy show last night and found out that I don't really need to wear all three hats. I usually just host and produce but there were a couple of requests for me to headline one night. I never had the urge to do that and now I know why. It's like working on a 9 - 5 job all week then coming in on Saturday for free. That doesn't make much sense does it? For those of you who were at the show, I hope you enjoyed it cause it probably won't happen again. I also had a two day workshop that I've blogged about before. It was the third and final part in a series of workshops intended to help actors discover their brand. I wasn't overjoyed with the first two workshops but knew that what I wanted was in this last one. I'm sure the series was designed that way intentionally. I have a tendency to finish what I start no matter how painful, but this time I was not disappointed. Now only did I get a wealth of information but I can continue to do this work on my own and can already see its value in other areas of my life. It's even connected to my relationship with my mother and my mentor gave me some parting words that made quite an impact on me. I will not be posting them here....for my eyes only. Also had a conversation with my Hawaiian Goddess friend Ayin who really brought it all home for me. That's going in my personal journal as well. Bottom line, I'm excited to get to be with my Mom AND to spend time with my Beloved.

A Clear Channel - Day 196

I'm trying not to get to freaked out about my trip to New York. I feel like I'm under a lot of pressure and not quite sure if I can handle it all. I'm trying to take care of myself while I'm here at home because in New York it's going to be harder to do. At times like this I tend to get moody and very sensitive. I just want to shut down and be left alone but I know I can't do that. I have responsibilities. Some have been placed upon me and some I have placed upon myself. I could also be feeling pressure because I have a huge weekend coming up. A two day seminar and my show tomorrow night. I heavily promoted a headliner that I was more than excited about having in the show and she canceled today. As my mother would say, "One monkey don't stop no show!!" Amen to that. My fellow comics and fans of Laugh-A-Latte have been very supportive, upbeat and positive. So has my Danny. Unfortunately he had a car accident today. In New York City. At rush hour. With a bus. Fortunately he wasn't hurt and like my mother, has GEICO insurance. "Really?" I'll find out more details tomorrow. Enough with the car accidents already. "Unbelievable."

A Clear Channel - Day 195

Went to another locktician today recommended by my friend Kimberly. Although the shop was cute, I had an enjoyable time and the price was right, I now have another "handle" coming out of the side of my head. These braided styles just don't work for me but the only way to achieve my "look" is to leave the locks braided for about a day or two. Unlike my experience in New York a few months ago, I will go back to Terri and we will figure this out. The idea is to take the hair down in stages and have about three different looks along the way. We may have to experiment a bit to get that first style to look as cute as the end result. At least I know I can do it myself but the professionals do add a little something extra and my hair stays neater longer. Either way, the braids are not the most attractive look for me in my opinion.
I think I made a little progress as far as getting a heads up on my Mom's situation. Don't want to speak too soon. As she would say, "let's just wait and see what happens." Wonder what it will take for me to adopt that philosophy?

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Laugh-A-Latte.html?soid=1101692051272&aid=Ud0VYpIHCO0

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Laugh-A-Latte.html?soid=1101692051272&aid=Ud0VYpIHCO0

A Clear Channel - Day 194

Due to technical difficulties, there was no blog from me last night. With two computers one would think I would have back-up but noooooo. I don't know enough to figure this all out. My friend Tree has graciously offered to help, but I think the desktop will be fixed by Friday. Computer guy #1 is coming back and I have a plan B. We'll see what happens.
So I'm feeling a little anxious as my trip to New York approaches. I don't know what I'm going to find and I'm not quite sure what to do with whatever that may be. It all seems so right here in LA, on paper, in conversations with people but it changes when I share it with Flo.
When I'm stressed or confused, I tend to retreat and I could feel that happening today. I made a few calls, did a little reading and went to my djembe class. That really helped. Before class I had forgotten that I hadn't worked on my ezine and decided to just forget about it but after drumming I was re-energized. I came home and got it all done. You can read all about when I post it here tomorrow.

A Clear Channel - Day 193

OK, so I called computer guy #2 and he suggested that I call computer guy #1 back since he and my computer have history. I guess that makes sense. A couple of people have suggested that I might have to remove/erase/take away??? everything and put it all back together again. Isn't that like Humpty Dumpty? So I've got a call out to #1 but this is getting very annoying. I have things to do that are so much more convenient to do on my desktop than on this Mac. I don't have all my important stuff on here yet which is a whole 'nother project! Lord, me and my projects. As I've blogged before, my sweetie is always asking me what my plans are for the day and lately it seems like I am always balancing a checkbook. He is an accountant who deals with a ton of money for the City of New York so he's probably wondering, "How long does it take to balance a checkbook" or "My girl must be loaded!!" The truth is, about three years ago (trying to help someone as usual) I hired a woman to do the prep work before getting my taxes done. It's quite a job, but I had been doing it myself. Well, it was a mess. I might as well have done it myself and she was not cheap! Here we go again with me paying someone for sub-standard results. We haven't even been in touch since then. Anyway, I couldn't figure out how to reconcile my accounts so I did nothing. Now, here I am becoming a care giver for my mother, entering Big Girl unknown territory, so I'm really concerned about getting my shyte in order. I'm going back three years to try and fix this! Record keeping when it comes to money has never been my strength. I know how to make it and I know how to spend it, I can't wait to have Danny around to take care of the rest. Just thinking about it is making me tired. Goodnight.

A Clear Channel - Day 192

I can't believe my computer is stuck. Again. I think it's time for a second opinion. For some reason, I had wanted to try a new computer guy, but my neighbor gave me the wrong number before she went out of the country so I called the old computer guy. Even though he has definitely made some improvements and gave me a really cool game, he can't seem to figure how why it just gets stuck. Part of me wants to call him again and part of me wants to call the new guy. After all, there was a reason I wanted someone new in the first place. Only thing is, I can't expect the new guy to fix an old problem for free whereas the old guy has to. I just want it to work correctly. I'm leaning toward calling the new guy (who is right here in the neighborhood by the way) tomorrow. I'll sleep on it and ask for the answer when I wake up.
Today my Beloved and I started on the journey of A Purpose Driven Life. I don't know how many of you know this but I am a self-help junkie. It all started back in the day. While still living at home with my parents I was drawn to Wayne Dyer's "Pulling Your Own Strings" and I was hooked. All these years, I've read book after book graduating to CD's and seminars and have always done the exercises by myself. I can't believe I now have someone in my life who is as interested in self improvement as I am. What a blessing. I'm so not used to this. In the past, the people I have chosen to enter my inner circle have not only been disinterested in making a better life for themselves, but have worked very hard at trying to prevent me from acheiving my goals. Danny and I had an amazing discussion about Chapter One of A Purpose Driven Life today. I look forward to this 40 day journey (and beyond) with him. He is not playin'. "Be careful what you wish for."

A Clear Channel - Day 191

As I said so many times before, care giving can be a beatch!! I have been working very diligently to put some things in place for my Mom's care and thought I had it all figured out. Then I shared it with her and she opposed. Now I feel like all that work was in vain and I had a moment of feeling unappreciated. My Mom is not acting out of character. You would think I would be used to it by now. The good news is, maybe she's getting better. It's hard to tell over the phone, I'll know more when I'm there in person. I have to let her come to some decisions in her way at her own pace at this point. I can't dictate, control or take her dignity away from her. In the words of my program..."don't dominate, nag, scold or complain." I've been advised by one of the members of my team to "Go with the Flo". Brilliant!! My mother's name is Florence, Flo for short. All in all, I just want what's best for her.
I'm just so grateful for my extended family who has stepped up to the plate to help us both.

A Clear Channel - Day 190

My computer guy had to come back today to see why the computer has been freezing up for the past 2 or 3 days. The print and colors still seem light to me but so far no freezing. That's the good news. The bad (not really) news is that he downloaded a game that I absolutely love to play and avoided because I know it will turn me into a vegetable. I don't want to say what it is in case he put on illegally. I've already missed phone calls because I was in the middle of a game and I have a vision of friends and neighbors doing an intervention. There is probably a 12 step group for _______ addiction out there somewhere. Obviously I pulled myself away to do this blog but will I be able to go to bed without playing again? Yikes. That's all I need.
I had a long conversation today that put my mind at ease as to my mother's care. I'm putting some things into place that I feel will help a great deal. I don't want to overwhelm her so I will proceed with caution.
My friend Diane was in town for a commercial audition today and we got to hang at the Sugar Shack. The Sugar Shack is a very unique living space. It's a communal arts colony. Being an only child, I'm so not use to sharing anything but it's kinda cool to vibe on so many people sharing the same space and making it all work. It was actually quite laid back. It's a cross between Woodstock and The Michigan Womyn's (you must spell it with a "y") Music Festival I love being around creative artsy people anyway so it was fun to watch adults and kids living, working and playing simultaneously. Diane's friend has that place so organized. It's amazing. I must take my Beloved there when he comes to visit. I don't think he's seen anything like it. We'll have lots to chat about on the way home from the Sugar Shack.

A Clear Channel - Day 189

It's official!! My Beloved and I are leaving for Maui the day after Christmas. I feel so blessed and grateful to be able to do this. Dec. 30th will be a milestone birthday for me and my original intention was to go to Europe. By myself. Then this year turned upside down. My mother had a car accident in May and I've used all the frequent flyer miles I had saved for my trip to go back and forth to New York. Somehow I've managed to work in between which lets me know that my work is all a part of God's plan. I was ready to give it all up and move in with my Mom but circumstances caused me to put on the brakes. Then Danny and I started dating (also in the middle of all this; never saw that coming) and now he's flying out to spend Christmas and my birthday with me. He hasn't been out to L.A. in over 20 years!! We were just friends back then. This time it will be so different. We are both very excited about our trip and time together. It's been a very challenging year. I'm so looking forward to just chillin' with my sweetie. I don't believe I've ever had a vacation like the one we're planning. Every time I've traveled, it's been to see family or I'm working. All in all it's a blessing and I'm so very grateful.

A Clear Channel - Day 188

I got some great news a couple of days ago...my sweetie has stopped smoking!! Wow. He didn't tell me for two days. I am so proud of him. Two days is more than half way there for the poison to get out of your body. It takes three. Now I think he has about 5 smoke free days. I'm noticing that we bring out the best in each other. Now that we are in this relationship, I've been observing that we are making changes in our lives in order to be better individuals. I believe this will make our relationship even stronger. The changes we are making are coming from within, not because the other party wants it. Our health and longevity have taken on new meaning. How awesome is that? For me, I have been making and keeping doctors appointments that I have put off in general and since my Mom has been ill. I've been so busy trying to control her doctor's visits I've neglected mine. That has got to stop. So off to bed I go...early dentist appointment tomorrow.

A Clear Channel - Day 187

I'm back on my desktop and it is running faster than it has for a long time. So much so, I could hardly pull myself away from it today. I was back on Outlook and it felt great to manage my contacts and emails the way I used to. I've noticed a couple of possible glitches, but we'll see what happens. For one, the print and colors on the screen seem a bit washed out to me. I'll be looking for a way to change that setting somehow.
I did get off the computer and out of the house long enough to work on my demo reel of my solo show. Thanks to Ron Gilmore of Gilmo Media I now have excerpts on a DVD and on YouTube. Like you've heard so many times before, as soon as I figure out how to connect that link here, you will be the first to know. I've very pleased with the results. Now I have to contact my graphic artist and start working on the postcard. I'm working on a checklist for the college circuit but it will be good to have for anyone who wants to book the show.
Ron also showed me all this cool stuff that my new phone does. Tonight I used it to navigate my way home. Time for bed...

A Clear Channel - Day 186

Two. Two. Two blogs in one. I was too tired to blog after getting in from Palm Springs last night. My intention was to check in this morning but I got all caught up in preparing for my computer guy to come a fix my computer. My desktop was running extremely slow, colors were fading and I was so fed up I just stopped using it. Fortunately, I have this Mac so I could keep up as much as possible. But here I am tonight typing on that Mac because my desktop is stuck on a defragmenting page. I'll have to call the computer guy again in the morning to find out what's up.
So let's catch up. Yesterday's trip to Palm Springs was fun as far as hanging out with the girls on the ride down there and being a part of my friend Kimberly winning her very first Bid Whist trophy. I was her partner. She's so new at the game she didn't even want to play cause she thought she would "bring me down." Believe me after the way that tournament was run, it really didn't matter it was all for fun. We ended up tying for second place so we had to share the two trophies with another team. I let Kimberly take ours to her home. She had the biggest smile on her face!!! The event was a bit lame, food not so great but it was good seeing faces I hadn't seen in a while. I'm really not a "group" or "cliche" kinda chick, but every now and then I like to check in. Like I said, the most fun was in the car talking smack and the card game. I wanted to get out of town for minute since it was Labor Day weekend so I continued with that game plan in mind for today. After my computer guy left, I drove to Thousand Oaks to check out some drums. I knew on the way up there that I would probably buy a djembe today and sure enough I did. It took so long to get there and I was anxious to christen my new drum so I decided to follow my teachers to their Monday night class. I thought it was right there in T.O. but we ended up in Ventura. So now I'm a hour outside of L.A.
I hope I don't sound ignorant with these next statements but I was surprised to find myself the only little brown face in class besides the master drummers. OK, I know we were in Ventura County, but I find that has been the norm. I have been in about 4 different drumming classes within the past 6 weeks although I expected to be in the minority as a woman I didn't expect to be in the minority as a Black person. Let me tell you those Ventura County people take their djembes very seriously. Everyone had their own drum so I fit right in with my brand new drum and case. You could tell they were a tight group, everyone knew each other and the master drummers were hustling around before class to get food, utensils, etc. for a birthday celebration for one of the students. It looked like they might be there for a while after class but I wanted to get on the road so I slipped out.
When we have class at Motherland in Culver City, we put our money on our teachers drum at the end of the session. Today, I was summoned into an office and asked to pay before class began. Malik (my teacher) worked that class like I've never seen. He would call out a songs/rhythms I can't even pronounce let alone spell and the students would simultaneously play...slap slap slap tone tone tone bass tone tone slap slap. These people were serious!! I could barely keep up. There'd better be a website with a glossary of terms and some mp3's to practice from. My Wednesday class feels like kindergarten now. Malik and I need to have a little chat.
Shout out to my Beloved for reminding me that I work hard and deserve to treat myself to something I do just for fun. Thank you honey...I Love You. My djembe is beautiful. Tone tone slap slap tone tone slap slap...

A Clear Channel - Day 185

It's amazing how quickly dreams can come true. Just a few short weeks ago I blogged about how I wanted to drum for African dancers. Today that dream became a reality. After drum class I hung out with the master drummers at Lulu Washington's Dance Studio. They invited me to sit in with them and drum. What an experience! And I thought drum class was fun. I caught a glimpse of myself in the studio mirror and thought, "I look pretty cool. I could get used to this." Wait til I get my own drum. Throughout the years I've always been attracted to percussion instruments but never really learned how to play any one of them. I really like the djembe. I was really getting into it at the dance studio and before I knew it, class was over. I will be back.
It's Labor Day weekend and I'm driving down to Palm Springs with some friends tomorrow. I've been so busy working and handling business for my mother, I want to feel like I've had a bit of a holiday.
Now I'm going to go do something girlie, like polish my nails. Goodnight.

A Clear Channel - Day 184

Whew! What a day. I started off with meditation and was feeling peaceful and optimistic about my day. Then I called my mother to check on the home attendant and that peace was disrupted. I found it hard to get it back for the rest of the day. I realize that I may lose this home attendant before I fire her...either way her time is about to come to an end. So I need to kick it into high gear to once again get some things in place before I get to NY into order to return home knowing my mother is being taken care of. I've been doing so much research and talking to so many people. The ideas and advice sound great in theory, but in reality it's a different story. I cannot implement anything if my mother doesn't cooperate. And who am I to think that I know what's best for her? This is so confusing. I can't just leave her alone. Everywhere I go for help there's a price tag attached but no one seems to really care. As my sweetie pointed out, what happened to the days when churches would have a committee to check on the "sick and shut-in". Members of the church would come by the house with a pot of food, ask the member if they needed anything, pick them up to take them to service or even give communion. My mother hasn't been to church since May at least and no one has been over to see her in an official capacity. A couple of her friends call and stop by but that's it. They are elderly themselves and can only do so much.
You know, I got on my sweetie's case this morning because he told me he posted something on his niece's facebook wall that I thought was private. He said it was the only way he could get her attention and actually it worked because he got a call from her. That incident made me think about this blog and how public it is. Although I never intended to put anyone on blast here, I realize that the very family members that I have issues with could be reading this every day. Here I am thinking they don't know what's going on with my mother and don't really care, but in actuality any information they need is right here. Sadly, that makes it even worse because I have been sharing my feelings, my frustrations, my confusion and my pain for weeks now. If they know that and still have not called then shame on them. I can't even bring myself to call them because I don't know what to say. I reached out for help and got nothing. When I get nothing, I give nothing.
This feels like a very melodramatic entry tonight but this is my space and I can say anything I want. Whoever has a problem with it can stop reading or leave a comment. Let's see who's got moxie.

A Clear Channel - Day 183

I was what they call a "picture wrap" on the Disney film today. This is the first project I have worked on that used that term. I was in hair and make-up way longer than I was on camera but Rhoda (my character) looked beautiful for the prom. As a matter of fact everyone did. Even the director was wearing a prom dress over his T-shirt and shorts! Too funny. I had so much fun working on this film and I look forward to doing more work where I feel like a member of the family. Usually as a guest star, co-star or day player an actor feels like a visitor when he/she shows up on set. Everyone who has been working daily gets to establish relationships and form bounds (or not) with their co-workers. I anxiously await the days when I get to say, "I look forward to going to work everyday." By work, let's be specific...I mean TV and film acting primarily but it could also be hosting, comedy, stage or producing. Just putting all my gifts out on the table. So today it was a picture wrap for me. Now I get to concentrate on my trips to Hawaii for my birthday and New York to handle some business with my Mom.
I'm a little sleepy so for tonight, that's a wrap.

A Clear Channel - Day 182

Well I'm still up and haven't received a call time for tomorrow yet. (My last day on the film PROM). Got an email about the wrap party but no email about work tomorrow. That must mean they are working late which means I will have a late call time. That also means I might be able to make it to the two auditions my people have for me in the morning. Both at 11:00 in two different places. It's often a shuffle board game in this business. Let's see who can reschedule so that it works for all of us. One project shoots in New Orleans. Wouldn't mind going back there. I actually like NOLA and have been thinking about it a lot lately. Probably due to Spike Lee's Part II..."And Da Creek Don't Rise", a discussion about it on the Front Page and the fact that Marcia Wall's birthday is coming up. I should probably go to bed so I can get up early not only for work but because I have some more care management to take care of. Tonight I find out that our home attendant spoke to someone who advised her to stop driving my Mom around in her car because of liability concerns. I absolutely agree. That is why I need professional help when I return to NY. I'm worried about my mother's social network and I don't mean online. She's never been one to ask for help (now I know where I get that from) but she really needs to now. She told me today that her friends have offered to take her places etc., but she feels like she's bothering them. I don't see what's wrong with asking one of her girlfriends if she can tag along when they go grocery shopping. Everyone has to eat right? Isn't that what little old ladies do...go shopping together? Even the doctor asked her about her activities and she told him she goes to church three times a week. HUH? How is the church lady sitting up in the doctor's office lying about going to church? Now you know there needs to be an intervention. She's starting to convince me she's OK on the phone but I gotta get back there to see for myself. There will be some people coming over to the house. I ain't afraid to ask for help no mo'!!

A Clear Channel - Day 181

Spent a lot of time on the phone attempting to set up appointments for when I return to NY to handle business for my Mom. I learned some new info today as I entered the world of geriatric care managers. One of the things that struck me was how a case manager assured me that she could find ways of taking care of my Mom without us having to use our own money and without losing all of our assets yet the cost for this is astronomical. There is a price to pay for living longer. I'm not saying that we shouldn't try to live as long as possible, but at what point does one get to enjoy all that they have worked for and not have to worry about people taking advantage of them? I hope I'm making sense because this is quite confusing to me. I wish my Mom had a family that was willing to work together to help take care of her. They say it takes a village but our village has a very small population. Except for my beloved Danny and my godbrother Harvey every one else expects payment for their services. And this little home attendant I hired is taking us for a ride too. I called my mother's house today, they were at the doctor's and the answering machine wasn't even on. That may sound petty, but for what I am paying her, that phone should never go unanswered. People had been over to the house yet no one has seen her. If I cut her pay like I want to, she needs to work for the next three weeks and not expect a check from me. When I get back to NY, I'll take it from there. This is just a rant tonight people....a stream of consciousness.
Wanted to wash my hair for my big prom scene on Thurs. but now I have two auditions tomorrow (you know I'm grateful). As some of you know, the hair thing is a two day event. Now I will just have to tighten up the front and hopefully pile it all up on top of my head.

A Clear Channel - Day 180

Ooooo my feet are killing me! That's what happens where you have an 11 1/2 hour day on set. I am not complaining...I love my work. I've been working on the film PROM for about six weeks now and even though I have not worked every day I truly feel like a member of this family. Everyone has been wonderful and I'm so excited about this project. Some may say I have a small role, but my character has a very strong presence even though she may not say much. When she does speak, it's powerful. Underneath she has a heart of gold and a great sense of humor. I can't wait to see what Disney has in store for the promotion of this film. Shhh, I can't talk about it yet. Just keep your eyes and ears open.
On a not so happy note, I realized today that I have been bamboozled by my mother's home attendant. I have been paying her for hours she has not been working and she knows it. I however, have to take responsibility for not paying attention and saying anything sooner. This is all new to me as I've said before and I refuse to beat myself up for making a mistake. As my godbrother said this evening..."time to re-negiotate". So tomorrow the home attendant and I will have a little talk and her hours and pay will be cut. I will also have to check up on her more often. Every day, every hour, every 5 minutes if I have to. It's so sad. I always want to believe that people want to do the right thing. It's time to start adding more professionals to the team to help me figure this stuff out. I did what I had to do at the time. After I finish working on this film, we take this caregiving thing to the next level.
On a happier note, my mother seems to be more willing to prepare for the future and she appears to be do doing much better. She doesn't have to go back to the doctor for her knee for another 3 months. It's all good and it's all God. Right Boo?

A Clear Channel - Day 179

A beautiful relaxing Sunday. Preparing for work on the Disney film tomorrow. 6AM call in Northridge. Looks like we will be working on one scene all day. Almost all of the main characters are in this scene and I'm sure it will be quite exciting. It's day 26 out of 30 which means the film will be wrapping up on Friday. I may have one or two more days of work this week. It's been a fun project and I can't wait for all the hype to begin.
I must get a copy of The Back-Up Plan so I can add it to my new demo reel. Projects, projects...always projects. New demo reel, website updates, promo material for college gigs, etc. It never stops and I love it!!

A Clear Channel - Day 178

I love being at the center of creativity. At LATC today I was right there in the vortex. It's a great feeling to be around so many talented artists and really get to enjoy the work, the process, the energy. I didn't have be in performer mode, I just got relax and take it all in. One of the highlights of the day was seeing the 10 minute plays two of which were written by Arthur French III. I know him from New York where I worked with his father. I remember Arthur III as a young boy. Now he's a grown *ss man and a playwright following in his father's footsteps. I love that! It was so inspiring I feel like I want to write a 10 minute play to submit for next year. Yeah right, like I need another project. Well now that I've put it out there, let's see what happens.
In two separate conversations, I chatted with my Beloved and our Hawaiian Paradise Goddess Ayin about our trip to Maui in December. It will be the vacation of a lifetime. I've done a ton of traveling but most of the time it was to visit family or to perform (which makes it a job. a fun job, but work nonetheless). This will be a long overdue vacation for me and my Boo. I wanted this birthday to be special but it's becoming more than I could ever dream of. GOD is good.

A Clear Channel - Day 177

No, I didn't meditate before I went to bed last night, but I did say a prayer before I went into my audition this afternoon. Sometimes I think I need to stay away from this new agey stuff. Yesterday my chakra healing revealed that my third eye and crown chakras were closed indicating that my intuition and connection with God needed some work. So of course I spent all day thinking about this. I am not the kind of person who needs to hear that I'm not doing enough of something. I know my connection to God is open. I pray through music, my thoughts, other people, CDs/DVDs, quiet time, books, etc on the daily. And if all I need is faith the size of a mustard seed to move mountains, I've got that and more. I think what could be shut down is my willingness or ability to Let Go and Let God. I tend to feel overly responsible for things that are out of my control and so I try to fix whatever I think is broken. I need to pray for faith in God's will and then move out of the way. It's difficult, but I'm gonna work on that.
I do miss having a church home and singing in a choir has been coming up a lot lately...hmmmm...God's will? I will be still and know.

A Clear Channel - Day 176

Living my life like it's golden. Auditioned for the role of a doctor today. I actually felt like I could get this one. Usually I'm the nurse and until now that felt right. There's been a shift in my perception and I feel like I'm moving on up! Of course I will book it because the shoot dates conflict with my trip to New York. We'll see what happens.
Drove down to Long Beach for a chakra healing. That was interesting. Discovered that I could use some work on my connection with God. I know I often forget to pray although I meditate but inconsistently. I do feel a little lost without a church home and I'm unsettled about what to do with my tithes in the interim. I'll work on that. Thank God I have a praying man in my life. Without getting on my case, he reminds me to pray. He leads by example and for that I am grateful.
After my chakra healing, I met with my friends Jack and Eric and we had cuban food, then went to Hot Java for coffee and dessert. It was fun to hang out there and not have to do a show. A lot of the locals know me from hosting Laugh-A-Latte and it was nice to be able to sit, chat and get to know them for a change.
Maybe I'll meditate before I go to bed. Tomorrow I'll let you know if I did.

A Clear Channel - Day 175

I was having such a wonderfully relaxing day at home I decided to blow off my drum class and going to play cards. I took care of stuff that I knew I wouldn't get done if I wasn't at home. I paid some bills, balanced my checkbook (partially), prepared for my audition, and made a special compilation of itunes for me and my sweetie. After that and a steamy little conversation with him I booked a flight to New York. (hearing Oleta Adams' "GET HERE" in my head)

A Clear Channel - Day 174

Nice relaxing Tuesday. My intention was to go to hoop class this morning, but I just have trouble making it to that 10AM class. Danny called me twice to wake me up and finally suggested I just go take a walk when I get up. That's exactly what I did. Took a nice long walk to downtown Santa Monica, came home and got ready to go have dinner with my dear friend and brother Chris. We always have a nice time together and it was fun telling him all about my new love. I'm so proud of Chris. He just graduated with his Masters Degree and is officially a therapist! He got a great job that he loves just after graduation. Awesome! He deserves it. Now we just have to find him a partner. I want to see him with someone special. I hope my Danny story was inspirational. You just never know when and where love will appear. I'm so grateful I was ready. I think that's the key. God will give you what you need when you're ready.
Just finished reading a film script for an audition on Thursday. This would be a great supporting role as a doctor. OK Lord, I'm ready.

A Clear Channel - Day 173

I have a bit in my act about people mistaking me for the Pine Sol Lady. What they don't know is that she is a good friend of mine. She lives in San Francisco and whenever she's in town it's like a holiday. I always look forward to getting together with her cause we do all my favorite things: eat great food, tell great stories, laugh and play cards. Her name is Diane and she was here shooting a pilot for what I pray is a huge boost to her already successful career.
All this newness about caregiving for my mother is encouraging me to take a look at getting my papers in order, so today I had someone come over from a long term care insurance company so I oculd ask him some questions. Of course he had some questions of his own and I applied for the insurance. In the event that my Beloved and I get married, I even inquired about us too.
So this is what being grown-up is all about.

A Clear Channel - Day 172

Why do I think I need to keep taking workshops that I believe will accelerate my show business career to the next level only to be disappointed time and time again? What is that all about? Yesterday I took part 2 of a workshop that I swore I would not attend. I was disappointed, angry even when it was all over yet I want to take part 3. Somehow I think the answer to my question is there. In the meantime I feel that the workshop leader is a scam artist and is just taking people's money for some "theory" he made up. And there I am....drinking the koolaid. Unbelievable.
All I can say is, I know when I do my comedy workshops I make sure I deliver on my promise. So far, no one has been disappointed and I have a waiting list for my next session. I need to stop giving away my money to people who can't help me. It's time to give back and I won't take advantage of people.
Last night I hosted Laugh-A-Latte for the first time in 3 months and boy did it feel good to be home. The energy was high, comics were great and the audience appreciative. Part of me feels the need to expand it, take it to another level and part of me is happy with the show the way it is. Think I'll let spirit guide me on this one.

A Clear Channel - Day 171

What a beautiful day. I worked on a side project for the Disney film. Sorry I can't reveal any details but I love the way they are including my character as much as possible. I'm very excited to be a part of this movie. Now let me shut up before I say too much. After my shoot, I stopped to get some ahi tuna for dinner then went home, prepped for Laugh-A-Latte and sorta rushed to prepare my food so that I could go meditate. So there I am on a Friday evening sitting in traffic in a car facing AWAY from the ocean feeling a little stressed because I might be late. I had to have a little chat with my self. Why was I willing to drive across town, in traffic, on a Friday and pay for a meditation and channeling session? I know I have a full day tomorrow with an all day acting workshop and hosting my comedy show in the evening. It took me exactly one exit to decide to turn around and come back home where I have all the peace and serenity I need right here. I have enough new age/soundscapes music to open a store and didn't I just share the other day that I joined Deepak Chopra's 21 Day Meditation Challenge? Oh, but first I took that $20 I was going to give to the channeler and put it in my gas tank.
Having another little chat with myself..."Girl, light that candle and start chanting." OOOOOOOMMMMM....

A Clear Channel - Day 170

Had a voice over audition this afternoon. What a mouth full! Lots of dialogue that had to fit into 30 seconds. Booth director was nice enough to give me 5 takes. He'll edit the best parts of each and I will sound fabulous!! One thing I learned...I don't like the headsets. It distracts me to listen to myself while I'm talking. It may work for some roles, but not for this one. Figured that out on take #5. Whew!
Then I headed home making a couple of stops along the way. Found myself in a jewelry store inquiring about what size I ring I wear just in case someone wants to buy me one. In case that someone is reading this....I wear a size 8.

A Clear Channel - Day 169

Spent the morning washing and braiding all this hair. Running out to a voice over audition. I called my voice over agent yesterday because I hadn't heard from them in a while and wanted to let them know I was in town "just in case" they forgot. Come to find out I had this audition waiting in my email before I even called. So now I'm going to this audition with all these braids in my hair but it's cool cause I won't be on camera. Tomorrow I will though. Disney has called me in do to some new media stuff for the film I'm working on. I'm so grateful that they are including me in on all the extras. Now, let me go get some mo' work!!

Laugh-A-Latte via @constantcontact

Laugh-A-Latte via @constantcontact

A Clear Channel - Day 168

A productive day at home. Got some laundry done, fixed an awesome lunch, prepped my Comedy Show, made some important phone calls. My buddy Ron came over to help me with my presentation for the colleges and introduced me to a great raw food restaurant right here in my hood of South Central Santa Monica. I always pay him in food for helping me then I get to find out where the healthy places are. Time for me to start making some substitutions.
I just got an email from my friend Kimberly telling me that Dr. Laura is quitting her radio show because "she is tired of not being able to speak her mind without being attacked." Dr. Laura please. You used the word nigger (yeah I said it) repeatedly to a Black caller for no apparent reason, then went on to question her about why it's OK for Black people to use the word but others (white people) can't. That's just the way it is. No one has been able to explain it...it just is. So quit Dr. Laura. You're supposed to be so tough, so big and bad. You didn't even help the caller with her problem (she was in an interracial marriage and wanted to know what to do when her husband's friends make racist comments), you magnified it. You can't stand the heat so get out of the kitchen.

A Clear Channel - Day 167

In my morning prayer and meditation today I realized that "A Clear Channel" is only 1/2 of my theme for this year. I don't wish to disclose the other half but I realize that I only have a little over 4 months to make it happen. I still feel like I'm moving in the right direction, but I've had so many huge & unexpected events happen that could throw me completely off track if I'm not careful. So I'm stepping up my game. I must make a stronger effort to commune with God on a daily basis...just special time with him, not all mixed up in my day. Music is prayer for me but I feel I need to use my own words. Praise Him, express my gratitude and ask Him for what I need. My beloved is so good at that and reminds me on a daily basis when I start trippin'.
I found myself in Culver City today with time to kill and all of a sudden I felt a calling from my dear friend Nell Carter. She passed away in Jan. of 2003 (I can't believe it's been that long) and even though I was at her funeral, I never saw where her body was laid to rest. I had a strong urge to visit her today so I did. There she was at a Jewish cemetery, in a mausoleum on top of a six person stack. I couldn't help but comment, "Leave it to you Nell to have us looking up at you. There's nobody higher but God." I thanked her for her friendship and for helping me out of a major jam just before she passed away. She told me to never mention it and today I declared us even. She is definitely one of my angels and I asked her for a special blessing.
I then took myself on a little shopping spree. Gotta keep up with my sweetie. He dresses his *ss off and loves to go out so I gotta keep up. See, my fashion strategy has always been go lots of different places but with lots of different people so I could recycle the same outfits over and over again. Back in New York I could never get away with that. I was always buying something new for the next event. I'm starting to like dressing up again. It's a good thing.
Went to my first Caregiver Support Group at Leeza's Place. I got to share my story and got confirmation that I am doing the right thing. I'm doing all I can and the best I can. That's what makes it right.
At home, I prepared a couple of recipes for the week and ended the day by signing up for Deepak Chopra's 21-Day Meditation Challenge. The message I keep getting is that I must take care of myself more than ever at this stage of my life and that's exactly what I plan to do.

A Clear Channel - Day 166

Nice casual Sunday. Peaceful before the work week begins. By work I mean unexpected auditions and dealing with the rest of the world who have had the weekend off. We don't have weekends in show business. As a matter of fact as a live performer the weekends are our work days, during the week is for rehearsals and pounding the pavement.
Today I did a reading for a screenwriter. Hadn't done one of those in awhile. As you know, I enjoy being a part of the creative process at any point along the way from start to finish. It was cool to see several members of Bill Duke's bootcamp. Hard to believe it was a year ago when we all met and worked together in class. Thank you Aaron for the email blast.
Came home and cooked a delicious salmon and roasted veggie dinner, prepared some stuff to be mailed tomorrow and totally got my praise on with Pandora Radio. That's the internet music site I told ya'll about. I played my gospel station tonight and loved every single song they played!! I had to make myself turn it off to get some work done. I even ordered a CD from amazon.com.
I want to get started early in the morning so I'd better get some sleep. Zzzzzzzzz.

A Clear Channel - Day 165

Got up early to meet with my walking group. We went to Descanso Gardens. What a disappointment. It was more of a walk than I thought it would be and far less of a garden. Apparently this was "off season" which makes no sense because all around town I see flowers and beautiful gardens everywhere I look. A staff member told us that the flowers are really pretty in the spring. Does that mean they stop watering in the summer? Couldn't they at least remove the dead roses from the bushes? And the cobwebs? They have some nerve even charging people admission. Well at least I can say I've been there. The camaraderie of the sistahs is always fun.
No drumming class today. There was a special event happening at Motherland Music but it hadn't started when my friend Kimberly and I got there so we went to eat 'cause we were hungry after roaming around among the dead foliage. Won't tell you what we had. Not very healthy but oh so good.
After a little nap, I read a very interesting script that I will be reading for the screenwriter tomorrow. Now I'll go get familiar with my characters, prepare my script and go to sleep thinking about how much I miss my beloved.

A Clear Channel - Day 164

Friday the 13th and it was a good Friday. Took my dear friend David J. out to lunch for his birthday. I was proud of myself for two reasons; I had a nice healthy, delicious salad, and I never mentioned my solo show once (he's my director). It was not a business lunch, although we couldn't help chatting about our acting careers, after all this is Hollywood. We chatted about real life stuff like relationships, elder care and the transition of our beloved pets. Well we are baby boomers. David J. is one of the most awesome people I know and I'm so grateful for our friendship.
Then I went to a commercial audition in valley followed by bid whist with "the girls". After having mediore hands all night, Kimberly and I ran a Boston (my bid) on the last hand. Yeah!

A Clear Channel - Day 163

Started reading the book on proprioceptive writing before I went to sleep last night and ended up tossing and turning for what seemed like hours. I originally thought it would be something I could incorporate into this blog, but it is not. It's a very deep, spiritual, therapeutic type of writing which should remain private and not placed in a position where it can be judged. Obviously this blog is anything less than private. Despite the fact that there are hardly any comments (I wish there were more) I know people are reading. I know who's lurking in the shadows but there are also strangers who check in from time to time. Either way, I know some of you are judging what I write, how I write etc. and I have no problem with that. Believe me, I will never post anything here that I don't want people to know. Or judge. Or comment on. However, if I go the proprioceptive route, I would not be able to be completely honest with myself or anyone else. I would too conscious of my "audience". So I will continue to read the book and save those "writes" for my journal.
Speaking of an audience. I did stand-up tonight for the first time in a while. I did a couple of elder care jokes followed by some tried and true material. I had a good set, nice audience up there in Ventura County and had fun doing some improv, but I must say the best part was hanging out with my buddy Jason Dudey. We enjoyed our road trip. It was long overdue. Thanks Jennie McNulty for the gig!

A Clear Channel - Day 162

My beloved was having a bad day today and as he was telling me all about it, I started bombarding him with questions asking for all the details. He got more upset than he already was and hung up on me. Then I got upset, called him back to let him know that and apologized for aggravating him at the same time. We spend the rest of the day apologizing to each other which was kinda funny. See, neither one of us likes drama and we're not ones to wallow in negativity. I'm so grateful we can talk about these moments and get past them in a relatively short amount of time. What I've learned is that I really need to keep my mouth shut. Sometimes it's best to just listen. It may not be easy for me, but I will certainly be more conscious of that in the future.
Then I drove 30 miles to a city I'm not familiar with called Lakewood for a business meeting and the person I was meeting never showed up. I waited 45 minutes. No phone call, no text, nothing. No worries, I got back in my car, drove home and hired someone else to do the job he was going to do. Once again, I was trying to help someone out and they blew it. That seems to be a pattern in my life. I look at it as a sign that he was not the one to do this job. It will get done.
After those events I was more than ready for my drumming class. I almost didn't go because I got so comfortable in my home, but I'm glad I did. I played the best ever! I sometimes lost the beat and some of the combinations were kinda tricky, but I hung in there. I think I may finally have a hobby, something I do just for sheer enjoyment.

A Clear Channel - Day 161

I've fallen off the wagon a bit regarding exercise and healthy eating. I was doing so well up until May. I know I have to get back on track. I think part of the problem is, I'm thinking of too many things, too many ways to exercise so I end up doing nothing or taking one class here and there. Maybe I need to just commit to one thing and one thing only. When I was driving up the coast to the beach party on Saturday I saw groups of bikers out early in all their biking regalia and I felt a longing to get on my bike again. I will always remember training for the AIDS ride back in 1995. I was in the best shape of my life. Unfortunately, I was also going through one of the roughest times in my life personally and I think that might be holding me back. I am committed to get over that and get back out there and ride!! Out of all the things I could do to get this body moving, I must say cycling is my favorite. So what's stopping me? The good thing is I'm not gaining any weight, but I'm not losing either. Being the self-help junkie that I am, I just bought a CD called What's Holding You Back? (or something like that). I'm going to check it out tonight before I go to sleep. And I think I'd better join my walking group on Saturday.
D, you are my inspiration.

A Clear Channel - Day 160

This evening I went to a meeting of a fellowship I've been a member of for 6 years. I felt the principles discussed at these meetings could help me with my current situation with my mother: reminding me to take care of myself first, accepting that I am powerless over certain things, turning my will & life over to God, etc. These principles do apply to all areas of my life, but after tonight's meeting I feel I should go to a support group that specifically speaks to my needs as a caregiver. There was one share that I could identify with but overall the atmosphere was a bit depressing. It was a small, dingy room on the P1 level of a parking structure. No windows, no color, and too much air conditioning. I saw some familiar faces and that was nice, but I still left early. I had had enough and I don't want to mention what I had to pay for parking but that was my own fault. I had heard about this meeting many times and always wanted to go. Now I can cross it off my list.

A Clear Channel - Day 159

What a relaxing weekend. Yesterday was spent at Paradise Cove in Malibu for my friend Jane's birthday. She is an amazing woman who honored so many more people than just herself. She celebrated her father-in-law with American flags for his service to our country, her husband for his birthday, her parents for their 50 year marriage , her widowed mother-in-law for 85 years of life. She even had acknowledgments for them from The White House signed by Barack and Michelle Obama!! We had a meditation service and a sound healer. We learned the Hip Hop Hula choreographed by Reggie Thornton and lots of other activities. Too much fun. Paradise Cove is cute and apparently a Malibu hot spot but it did get a little crowded. I had a good time people watching as usual.
Today I just chilled at home and added some more music to my Pandora account. Cleaned off my table/desk....what a difference. Now I feel like I have a place eat/work. When you live in a tiny space, a sister has to do what a sister has to do! Next, I'll be clearing off this desk because I started reading my book on Proprioceptive Writing. It's meditation, creativity, spirituality and therapy combined so there can't be any clutter.
I promised my beloved that I would watch last week's So You Think You Can Dance so off I go before I get sleepy...

A Clear Channel - Day 158

Everybody's talking about Pandora.com. The first person to tell me about it was my sweetie. He has it on his phone. Then I heard about it from one of my hoop instructors, now today I read that it's all the rage with the kids. I'm still old school, so I want my phone to just be a phone but I registered with pandora on my desktop and it is so cool!! Thanks sweetie! Pandora is an internet radio station where you can create your own station(s) with only music you like. You put in an artist or a song and they create a playlist with similar music. The only thing is, I thought I would be able to listen while blogging, but I can't.
I got my book today on proprioceptive writing, so it's about to get deep up in here. I've been trying to keep things light and fluffy...let's see how deep I am willing to go.
Didn't blog last night so I didn't get to tell ya'll that I went to see Young Frankenstein at The Pantages with my friend Rob. It was a cute show. I enjoyed it. Went for a drink after and Rob and I caught up a bit. Hadn't seen him in a while, it was good spend time with him.
Today I had a couple of auditions and now I'm preparing for a day at the beach tomorrow. I plan to just a have a day of fun and celebration. It's my friend Jane's 50th birthday. Welcome to the club girl!!!

A Clear Channel - Day 157

Just finished reading a movie script for an audition I have on Friday. I love it when my manager sends scripts because it gives me a real feel for the character within the context of the project. It also gives me something to talk about at the audition. It's a sign of respect when an actor takes the time to learn and understand the story. For me, it gives me even more to work with.
Earlier this evening I had my second drumming class with the teacher I really like. The class was smaller this evening but still fun. It's a challenge, still can't master all of the beats but it gives me something to strive for. I'm going to buy my own drum soon.
Went shopping at Dewberries, Jackie Kennedy's hip and fun boutique on Pico near Fairfax. Bought a really cute dress, some matching jewelry and a gift for my friend Jane. I really like Jackie. She's smart, fun and confident. I will be going back...it's a feel good place.
And my first stop this morning was a Comcast audition. Felt really good. I just know I will be at those callbacks next week. My GEICO commercial is getting plenty of airtime. Check it out on YouTube. It's called A Bird in the Hand. Thank you God!!!

A Clear Channel - Day 156

Today I managed to get the hula hoop around my waist for more than one or two revolutions. I actually waist hooped until I was out of breath. I used the DVD that came with the hoop I bought oh so many months ago. The DVD is a better teacher than the live person I took class with last week. I kept my head and torso up, tucked my pelvis in and before I knew it that hoop was spinning around my waist. I did notice that when I put my left foot out front I had more power than when I lead with my right foot. I would think that my right side was stronger but I did discover in that skills assessment test I had back in May that my left side could very well be dominant. Interesting.
Another piece of good news, I am now officially an artist represented by Adilah Barnes Productions for taking my solo show, FIFTY! It Doesn't Look This Good On Everybody into colleges throughout the United States. I am so ready to do this at this point of my life and career. I've already made an appointment to work on my promotional material next week. Let's do this!!

A Clear Channel - Day 155

Had a wonderful 11 1/2 hour day on the set of PROM today. I didn't work on the actual film but was honored to be a part of a special DVD bonus written specifically for one of the main characters. An adorable, 6'6" tall, young actor named Nick. For someone his age he is quite focused on his craft and extremely confidant. It was a joy to work with him and chat between takes. He was reading a book on acting that I had to immediately order from Amazon. I haven't read a book on acting in years!!
The book I brought on set with me today was The Complete Elder Care Planner, so you know where my head is at. I am determined to approach this elder care assignment with as much grace, peace, serenity and balance as possible. One of the things I read in my book is something I totally plan to look into. It's a writing technique called "proprioceptive writing" that facilitates emotional health, spiritual awakening and creative breakthroughs. I believe I may have already started this process through blogging every night, but I wish to go deeper so get ready....you're going with me.