Happy Easter everyone! I love this holiday! I love the reason for the holiday (obviously). I love the special church events. I love the family gatherings (even if I am getting orphaned). I love the spring-themed things. I love the food. Everything seems lovelier around Easter.
I did something today which I have not willingly done for the duration of my memorable life. I bought an Easter dress today (which isn't the unusual thing). It is quite pretty, a sage dress with cream ribbons and flowers on it (not as babyish as it may sound), an empire waist and knee length. Due to this loss of weight, I'm back to the size I was in high school--yeah! Anyway, I bought the dress at Maurice's. I like clothes from Maurice's, but some of their clothes are a bit more, ahem, revealing than I care to expose. I bought a cardigan with the dress, so I wouldn't feel quite as exposed at church tonight in my slip dress.
The cardigan is the the unusual thing. It is a pink cardigan. Rather, it is coral. I do not wear pink. However, I've been told it looks okay on me, and people were not inclined to puke at the sight of my red hair against the pink. I was given compliments for it, so I guess there are shades of pink that I can wear. Who'd have thunk it? :) Kristen went with me for our Easter dress shopping, and was about to burst with excitement at the thought of me in pink. She dragged me to every soul in church and said, "LOOK! Lynette's in PINK!!!!!!!!!" Wow. My parents were in San Diego, so it will be a shock for them, I'm sure. Well, my mom anyway. The shock will be if my dad even notices.
Spring Break has started officially, and I am glad. Kids were getting back to some pretty stupid and immature behavior. Moreso than usual. It ranged from jr. highers stealing eggs with candy from the Kindergartners to sneaking off campus and taking a cat from someone's house! I couldn't believe the true stupidity of their actions. Yes, the teachers could tell that the break was very close by!
So, I should wrap up this post. I'm very tired. I am getting over my hindering cold, which was annoying. I am awfully glad that it is almost over. The title comes from the song "Easter Parade," which was written by Irving Berlin. I believe it was used in a Follies show, but it was also used in the movie I'm watching as I type this: Easter Parade. It stars Fred Astaire, Judy Garland, Ann Miller, and Peter Lawford. It's fluff, but cute. Right now, it's in the "We're a Couple of Swells" number, which is actually kinda funny. Judy Garland may be known for her singing, but I have to say that she was actually a decent dancer in everything I've seen her in. Just an observation for the woman who was exploding with talent (Very funny if you watch her facial expressions and comedic timing. A good actress, if you get her in some of her non-cheesy musicals. Brilliant singer.), who (and this is a fact) couldn't read a note of music when MGM signed her to a contract at the age of 14. Happy Easter! Christ is risen, He's risen indeed!
March 22, 2005
Have you heard, it's in the stars/next July we collide with Mars
Happy Tuesday to all. I am ill, but at school. Drat! Actually, I think I'll be taking tomorrow off. I went to Barnes again on Sunday (Four trips to Reno in one week! Not a normal week, to be sure). I was enjoying a book I was starting about the Adams family--not the television show! John, Abigail, John Quincy, Charles, etc. For some reason, they fascinate me as a family. Anyway, I could feel a sore throat coming on. Yesterday was terrible. I was going to call in sick, but I had a girl in first period who was supposed to give a speech. That classs just finished their fourth of five debates today, and this girl missed one. As an alternative assignment, I told her to take her topic and present a five minute persuasive speech on her side of the issue. Imagine my ire when I told her yesterday that it was time to present it, and she said, "No, I don't want to." When I asked why, she had the gall to tell me that she simply didn't want to do it, so she wasn't going to. And my sole purpose of getting out of bed was for her?????????? I was pretty ticked. I'm taking tomorrow off, because I won't be missing anything big--debates, quizzes, tests, etc.
But I am excited today, too! I have the Discipleship class I'm taking at church tonight, which has been a joy for me. I love being a student again! The light homework, and fresh perspective on things in the Bible, epiphanies, etc. It's a great deal of fun. I've decided that on my way there or back, I will purchase the ever-great film Finding Neverland. I loved this movie. Of course, J.M. Barrie is one of my favorite authors in his lifestyle (and I am always charmed when I reread Peter Pan). Then, there's the added benefit of a great script, filming, and plot. And last, but most certainly NOT in the least, fine performances from both Kate Winslet and Johnny Depp. The moment I left the theater in Reno with Janina after we saw it during our orphaned Christmas, I proclaimed my intention to buy it asap. That would be today! Huzzah!
Oh, and here's another thing: I'm getting orphaned again for Easter! :( Dad called on Saturday to see if I wanted to fly down with them to San Diego this Saturday. My parents are buying my grandparents well used 5th wheel and truck. I have decided not to go for three reasons: 1) Money. I need to take about 8 tests to be a fully licensed teacher in Nevada. I'm signing up to take the bulk of them now. 2) I'm ending my grading period this Friday (which is a 1/2 day) for the quarter, and want to finish all of it prior to 3) On Tuesday, I'm headed to L.A. with Ann and Kyrie for about 3 1/2 days. My parents are driving back on Tuesday. I'd be willing to meet them in L.A. were it not for the other two factors. L.A. should be fun! I'll see my dear cousins, play at Disneyland, and Halley has said she'll cut my hair (she's currently attending a beauty/fashion design school down there)! Many adventures will be had, of this I"m certain.
Seeing Jenifer (who is no longer Brasuell) was awesome! I got to meet her husband, daughter and stepdaughter. It was neat to see what she's been up to, how she's matured, and everything else. I also got caught up on a lot of class gossip--the class I began Kindergarten with. Wow. Things seem pretty different in Exeter, CA, that's for sure!
This lyric comes from the Cole Porter classic "Well Did You Evah?" from Dubarry was a Lady, and later used in the hilarious film High Society with Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, Celeste Holm, and the ever-glamorous Grace Kelly. I would highly recommend seeing this film if you've not yet. It's based on The Philadelphia Story (which stars Cary Grant, Katherine Hepburn, and Jimmy Stewart). Speaking of which, that recently came out on DVD, too . . . hmm. Perhaps my shopping basket will need to have another addition soon . . .
But I am excited today, too! I have the Discipleship class I'm taking at church tonight, which has been a joy for me. I love being a student again! The light homework, and fresh perspective on things in the Bible, epiphanies, etc. It's a great deal of fun. I've decided that on my way there or back, I will purchase the ever-great film Finding Neverland. I loved this movie. Of course, J.M. Barrie is one of my favorite authors in his lifestyle (and I am always charmed when I reread Peter Pan). Then, there's the added benefit of a great script, filming, and plot. And last, but most certainly NOT in the least, fine performances from both Kate Winslet and Johnny Depp. The moment I left the theater in Reno with Janina after we saw it during our orphaned Christmas, I proclaimed my intention to buy it asap. That would be today! Huzzah!
Oh, and here's another thing: I'm getting orphaned again for Easter! :( Dad called on Saturday to see if I wanted to fly down with them to San Diego this Saturday. My parents are buying my grandparents well used 5th wheel and truck. I have decided not to go for three reasons: 1) Money. I need to take about 8 tests to be a fully licensed teacher in Nevada. I'm signing up to take the bulk of them now. 2) I'm ending my grading period this Friday (which is a 1/2 day) for the quarter, and want to finish all of it prior to 3) On Tuesday, I'm headed to L.A. with Ann and Kyrie for about 3 1/2 days. My parents are driving back on Tuesday. I'd be willing to meet them in L.A. were it not for the other two factors. L.A. should be fun! I'll see my dear cousins, play at Disneyland, and Halley has said she'll cut my hair (she's currently attending a beauty/fashion design school down there)! Many adventures will be had, of this I"m certain.
Seeing Jenifer (who is no longer Brasuell) was awesome! I got to meet her husband, daughter and stepdaughter. It was neat to see what she's been up to, how she's matured, and everything else. I also got caught up on a lot of class gossip--the class I began Kindergarten with. Wow. Things seem pretty different in Exeter, CA, that's for sure!
This lyric comes from the Cole Porter classic "Well Did You Evah?" from Dubarry was a Lady, and later used in the hilarious film High Society with Bing Crosby, Frank Sinatra, Louis Armstrong, Celeste Holm, and the ever-glamorous Grace Kelly. I would highly recommend seeing this film if you've not yet. It's based on The Philadelphia Story (which stars Cary Grant, Katherine Hepburn, and Jimmy Stewart). Speaking of which, that recently came out on DVD, too . . . hmm. Perhaps my shopping basket will need to have another addition soon . . .
March 17, 2005
My pretty Irish Girl!
In honor of the ancestors I most resemble in look, I am writing my St. Patrick's Day post in green. Yeah for the Irish! One of my Irish ancestors immigrated to America when he was four. Who was he, you ask? The great Matthew Thornton! He was one of those wonderful Rennaissance type men during the colonial period of America. He actually was the governor of New Hampshire, and (our family's crowning glory) signed the Declaration of Independence. If you ever look at the document, or a copy of it, his is the last name you'll see, in the bottom right-hand corner. I'm related to him through my maternal grandmother, and am the first in 5 generation on that side to even have red hair or green eyes.
Last night was The Merry Widow in Reno. It was pretty good--go Nevada Opera Company! I thought it was well sung/performed; particularly considering that it was a dress rehearsal (and the performers weren't necessarily singing at 100% level to save their voices for this weekend when they have the performances). I thought it was very funny. I must admit, though, the secondary female lead (whose name starts with a V, but escapes me right now) was an obnoxious character. I felt the character was portrayed well, just an annoying character. "Flirt with the widow, because I want to be a virtuous wife." Then, she'd turn around the moment her love interest did this very thing, and be very jealous. Ummm, okay. The English translation (which we saw, sadly) was written by a couple from Reno, and the wife was at our performance. Kinda cool.
Tonight, I'm seeing The Fantasticks again--also for free (certainly an added benefit of doing theatre is getting into various shows for free!). Yeah! But, before that and after tutoring my Dutch student today, I have a bit of excitement that I've just learned and agreed to. I had a good friend as a child in Exeter, named Jenifer Brasuell. She was one of my best friends all the way through high school when I moved to Colorado, and one of the friends who wrote me fairly consistently. She "found" me and sent me an e-mail in December, and we've written back and forth. She called me a couple of weeks ago, during rehearsal and I couldn't talk to her. I called her last weekend, and that was great fun. She called me today, and she's in Reno for the night! I'm going to meet them for dinner--how cool is that? I haven't seen her since Exeter High School's graduation in 1998 (we went back so I could see my class graduate). Been awhile! Yeah for old friends!
This title is from a song by the same title. It's from the 1959 Disney classic, Darby O'Gill and the Little People. I don't know that I would thoroughly classify this as a musical, but it's not exactly a non-musical. A happy medium, perhaps. I liked it when I was a kid, and we used to rent it every St. Patrick's Day. The Banshee and her death carriage always used to freak me out, but it is still enjoyable. Plus, it was Sean Connery's American movie debut!
Last night was The Merry Widow in Reno. It was pretty good--go Nevada Opera Company! I thought it was well sung/performed; particularly considering that it was a dress rehearsal (and the performers weren't necessarily singing at 100% level to save their voices for this weekend when they have the performances). I thought it was very funny. I must admit, though, the secondary female lead (whose name starts with a V, but escapes me right now) was an obnoxious character. I felt the character was portrayed well, just an annoying character. "Flirt with the widow, because I want to be a virtuous wife." Then, she'd turn around the moment her love interest did this very thing, and be very jealous. Ummm, okay. The English translation (which we saw, sadly) was written by a couple from Reno, and the wife was at our performance. Kinda cool.
Tonight, I'm seeing The Fantasticks again--also for free (certainly an added benefit of doing theatre is getting into various shows for free!). Yeah! But, before that and after tutoring my Dutch student today, I have a bit of excitement that I've just learned and agreed to. I had a good friend as a child in Exeter, named Jenifer Brasuell. She was one of my best friends all the way through high school when I moved to Colorado, and one of the friends who wrote me fairly consistently. She "found" me and sent me an e-mail in December, and we've written back and forth. She called me a couple of weeks ago, during rehearsal and I couldn't talk to her. I called her last weekend, and that was great fun. She called me today, and she's in Reno for the night! I'm going to meet them for dinner--how cool is that? I haven't seen her since Exeter High School's graduation in 1998 (we went back so I could see my class graduate). Been awhile! Yeah for old friends!
This title is from a song by the same title. It's from the 1959 Disney classic, Darby O'Gill and the Little People. I don't know that I would thoroughly classify this as a musical, but it's not exactly a non-musical. A happy medium, perhaps. I liked it when I was a kid, and we used to rent it every St. Patrick's Day. The Banshee and her death carriage always used to freak me out, but it is still enjoyable. Plus, it was Sean Connery's American movie debut!
March 13, 2005
Crazy World
And so I sally forth in my journal writing obsession to make yet another entry. I've determined that I have too many journals (at the moment, including this one, I have 5 . . . though each serves a different purpose!). Very strange, I know. But, it's therepeutic, rewarding, and once my writing spurt ends for a bit, I can relax a little. I've been on a writing spree since August, with no end in sight. What I should be doing is writing a book with all this excess writing energy. I'd be willing to bet, though, that if I did, I'd lose all desire to write at all. So, to one of my five journals I'll go.
The Fantasticks was just that--fantastic! I had never seen it before, nor had I heard most of the music from it. But I did enjoy both the plot and music; particularly the Rape song (hysterical!). Good stuff. Bob did a good job with this show. I think that out of the shows I've seen WNMTC do, I tend to like Bob's work more than Stephanie A.'s. At any rate, it was good, and I might go again on Thursday because Stephanie (meaning Dixon) gave me a comp ticket. May as well go for free!
After, I went to dinner with Chris, Bob, Stephanie, and several cast members. Now, those of you who have heard or seen the great loathing which Josh seemed to have for me may be shocked at this: I don't think he does anymore! Huh. He went to dinner with us, and not only looked at me (more than once), but he also included me in conversations, and laughed at my sarcasm when it was appropriate, and was even willing to fill in some background information which I was not privy to before regarding certain conversational topics. I could have fallen off my stool, but I didn't. Go figure. Anyway, I also learned that Bob is writing a musical called Nicholas and Alexandra about the last Czar (or T-zar as Ed Scott's character, Mortimer, said in The Fantasticks!) and his family's downfall. He said, "I have perfect parts in it for Josh, Chris, and Lynette." We'll see if that ever happens. How awesome would it be to be in an original production, though?
So, I had a pampering day for myself. I was going to see Bride and Prejudice today with a couple of friends, but as of last night and this morning, neither of them could go. Being the independant person I am, I went by myself. I went to Reno, to Barnes and Noble first. I like Barnes ever so much more than Borders. Sadly, I didn't use my giftcard, but I did make some wonderful purchases. I am now in the midst of reading The Woman in White, The Eyre Affair which has been recommended to me by many people (and the fact that the "memo" on the first page is from Milon de Flosse certainly added to the credibility of their statement that I would enjoy the book), Tender is the Night, and Brave New World.
I did, in fact, see Bride and Prejudice, but I'm still making up my mind as to what I thought. It was . . . bizarre. Granted, I figured that the Bollywood answer to Austen may be a little strange, but this exceeded my expectations. It was directed by the guy who directed Bend it Like Beckham (Which, I must admit, I thoroughly enjoyed. Absolute cheese, but sometimes you need that!). It was also a MUSICAL!!!! That, I was not expecting at all! And it wasn't even great music, I was laughing at it more than anything (which may have been the idea). But, when the lyrics will say, "I want a man who looks at my eyes and not my rack," I don't know how anyone could respond any differently! I think I did enjoy it. At any rate, I laughed a lot, and enjoyed a look into the Indian culture (which I am becoming more obsessed with). So there you have it. Jane Austen's characters, set in 2005, India, with Busby Burkley-esque musical numbers (and Will Darcy never sang in them!)--I don't know that I'd highly recommend it. Perhaps as a rental, after a tough day or week, and you just need a fluff movie which makes you laugh. Wow.
This posts title comes from the song of the same title from Victor/Victoria. Another strange musical in which a woman portrays a man pretending to be a woman. It has it's moments, I'll give it that. Plus, it's Julie Andrews, so some things can be forgiven. I have been known to laugh at this as well.
The Fantasticks was just that--fantastic! I had never seen it before, nor had I heard most of the music from it. But I did enjoy both the plot and music; particularly the Rape song (hysterical!). Good stuff. Bob did a good job with this show. I think that out of the shows I've seen WNMTC do, I tend to like Bob's work more than Stephanie A.'s. At any rate, it was good, and I might go again on Thursday because Stephanie (meaning Dixon) gave me a comp ticket. May as well go for free!
After, I went to dinner with Chris, Bob, Stephanie, and several cast members. Now, those of you who have heard or seen the great loathing which Josh seemed to have for me may be shocked at this: I don't think he does anymore! Huh. He went to dinner with us, and not only looked at me (more than once), but he also included me in conversations, and laughed at my sarcasm when it was appropriate, and was even willing to fill in some background information which I was not privy to before regarding certain conversational topics. I could have fallen off my stool, but I didn't. Go figure. Anyway, I also learned that Bob is writing a musical called Nicholas and Alexandra about the last Czar (or T-zar as Ed Scott's character, Mortimer, said in The Fantasticks!) and his family's downfall. He said, "I have perfect parts in it for Josh, Chris, and Lynette." We'll see if that ever happens. How awesome would it be to be in an original production, though?
So, I had a pampering day for myself. I was going to see Bride and Prejudice today with a couple of friends, but as of last night and this morning, neither of them could go. Being the independant person I am, I went by myself. I went to Reno, to Barnes and Noble first. I like Barnes ever so much more than Borders. Sadly, I didn't use my giftcard, but I did make some wonderful purchases. I am now in the midst of reading The Woman in White, The Eyre Affair which has been recommended to me by many people (and the fact that the "memo" on the first page is from Milon de Flosse certainly added to the credibility of their statement that I would enjoy the book), Tender is the Night, and Brave New World.
I did, in fact, see Bride and Prejudice, but I'm still making up my mind as to what I thought. It was . . . bizarre. Granted, I figured that the Bollywood answer to Austen may be a little strange, but this exceeded my expectations. It was directed by the guy who directed Bend it Like Beckham (Which, I must admit, I thoroughly enjoyed. Absolute cheese, but sometimes you need that!). It was also a MUSICAL!!!! That, I was not expecting at all! And it wasn't even great music, I was laughing at it more than anything (which may have been the idea). But, when the lyrics will say, "I want a man who looks at my eyes and not my rack," I don't know how anyone could respond any differently! I think I did enjoy it. At any rate, I laughed a lot, and enjoyed a look into the Indian culture (which I am becoming more obsessed with). So there you have it. Jane Austen's characters, set in 2005, India, with Busby Burkley-esque musical numbers (and Will Darcy never sang in them!)--I don't know that I'd highly recommend it. Perhaps as a rental, after a tough day or week, and you just need a fluff movie which makes you laugh. Wow.
This posts title comes from the song of the same title from Victor/Victoria. Another strange musical in which a woman portrays a man pretending to be a woman. It has it's moments, I'll give it that. Plus, it's Julie Andrews, so some things can be forgiven. I have been known to laugh at this as well.
March 10, 2005
Tell me more! Tell me more!
Yeah for Fridays! I love 'em. Truth be told, I'd like to shake hands with the person who established that two days off from work was how the country should be run. Yessir, I'd like to shake their hand and thank them personally. Brilliant, sheer brilliance!
So, as you can see, I'm looking forward to tomorrow. I like Fridays. For one thing, it's a more casual day for teachers. I can wear jeans if I like! For another thing, 9 times out of 10, whoever does devotions that week provides breakfast for the rest of us. Not your usual, grab a dozen or so donuts and call it good, either. Nope! Egg creations have been overly popular this year--which I've certainly enjoyed. Then there's the fact that I can look forward to sleeping in the next two days. I'll often times be a little more lenient with my lesson plans (tomorrow goes like this: 1st period--10th graders working on debates. 2nd period--9th grade study session for the Monday To Kill a Mockingbird test, after a vocab quiz. 3rd period--11th/12th grade watching more of Pride and Prejudice. 4th period--8th grade free read after their research papers are turned in. Bible--Ch. 14 test, prayer groups. 5th period--prep. 6th period--7th graders take a vocabulary quiz, and we'll read more from the book their doing now, Cheaper by the Dozen). The two drawbacks to tomorrow are the rushing to get 7th/8th grades grades in their folders, and the fact that I have to stay until 4:30 to tutor my Dutch 8th grade boy. However, starting next week, he'll be tutored on Tues. and Thurs. . . . now that the basketball season is over (boys--undefeated, girls--lost every game). Huzzah!
This weekend, I'm seeing The Fantasticks. Yeah, the show where I was thoroughly embarrassed by my callback singing. They could hear that one of the notes was out of my range--they all flinched! Yet they had me do it again and go even higher? Talk about humiliations galore! Particularly since Josh was there, and he hates me for some reason unbeknownst to myself. If I'm going to be awful, I'd prefer to do it within a group of people who I know are supporting me, thank you! I hope it'll be good. I've been getting daily reports from Ann, who is the Assistant Director of it (along with Stephanie).
We had rehearsal tonight and went over "The Mob Song," "Belle," and the finale. We blocked most of "The Mob Song." I think it'll be a fun number, particularly since it is so different from any other number in the show. Actually, none of them are really the same. In "Belle," I gossip about everyone (particularly Belle). In "Be Our Guest," I am an overly cheerful table (they announced it wrong when they said we were napkins). In "Gaston," I get to be a drunk wench. We've not gone over "The Battle" yet, but I'm in that and eager to see what I do. Anyway, I've decided that it would be a blast to do the whole "Mob Song" while brandishing a wooden spoon with cake batter on it. I hope they'll let me! I don't know. Gina and Stephanie A. tend to just laugh at me when I suggest things like this. Actually, tonight Gina was laughing at me a lot, so I guess I amuse our British choreographer. Since she makes me laugh a lot, it's nice to know that there's a mutual amusement being shared.
Oooh! And the best part of rehearsal? After it was over! We had to be in a different room, the one near Stephanie A.'s office. We were by all the various posters and collages of the shows WNMTC has put on. I found the poster of their 1997 production of The Wizard of Oz, and found my wonderful cousin Kelsey! I showed Chris after (along with Hana's picture, since she was in it, too, and had showed me earlier) once we were dismissed. Stephanie A. announced that we could go to see the Nevada Opera put on their final dress rehearsal for The Merry Widow next Wednesday for free! Woo-hoo! Chris and I got Stephanie to put us down as very interested. Operas are great, especially when all you're paying for is the gas to Reno, and food if you get it! ;)
The title, you can probably guess, comes from the song "Summer Loving" from the ever popular, ever fluff musical Grease. I realized that next month, I'll have been blogging a year. And, while I didn't necessarily start with my musical lyrics as titles, it soon became a common practice. The best part? I've not yet repeated any! Some lyrics come from the same songs, but never the same set of lyrics. I don't know whether to be proud, or to be analyzed for this quirk.
So, as you can see, I'm looking forward to tomorrow. I like Fridays. For one thing, it's a more casual day for teachers. I can wear jeans if I like! For another thing, 9 times out of 10, whoever does devotions that week provides breakfast for the rest of us. Not your usual, grab a dozen or so donuts and call it good, either. Nope! Egg creations have been overly popular this year--which I've certainly enjoyed. Then there's the fact that I can look forward to sleeping in the next two days. I'll often times be a little more lenient with my lesson plans (tomorrow goes like this: 1st period--10th graders working on debates. 2nd period--9th grade study session for the Monday To Kill a Mockingbird test, after a vocab quiz. 3rd period--11th/12th grade watching more of Pride and Prejudice. 4th period--8th grade free read after their research papers are turned in. Bible--Ch. 14 test, prayer groups. 5th period--prep. 6th period--7th graders take a vocabulary quiz, and we'll read more from the book their doing now, Cheaper by the Dozen). The two drawbacks to tomorrow are the rushing to get 7th/8th grades grades in their folders, and the fact that I have to stay until 4:30 to tutor my Dutch 8th grade boy. However, starting next week, he'll be tutored on Tues. and Thurs. . . . now that the basketball season is over (boys--undefeated, girls--lost every game). Huzzah!
This weekend, I'm seeing The Fantasticks. Yeah, the show where I was thoroughly embarrassed by my callback singing. They could hear that one of the notes was out of my range--they all flinched! Yet they had me do it again and go even higher? Talk about humiliations galore! Particularly since Josh was there, and he hates me for some reason unbeknownst to myself. If I'm going to be awful, I'd prefer to do it within a group of people who I know are supporting me, thank you! I hope it'll be good. I've been getting daily reports from Ann, who is the Assistant Director of it (along with Stephanie).
We had rehearsal tonight and went over "The Mob Song," "Belle," and the finale. We blocked most of "The Mob Song." I think it'll be a fun number, particularly since it is so different from any other number in the show. Actually, none of them are really the same. In "Belle," I gossip about everyone (particularly Belle). In "Be Our Guest," I am an overly cheerful table (they announced it wrong when they said we were napkins). In "Gaston," I get to be a drunk wench. We've not gone over "The Battle" yet, but I'm in that and eager to see what I do. Anyway, I've decided that it would be a blast to do the whole "Mob Song" while brandishing a wooden spoon with cake batter on it. I hope they'll let me! I don't know. Gina and Stephanie A. tend to just laugh at me when I suggest things like this. Actually, tonight Gina was laughing at me a lot, so I guess I amuse our British choreographer. Since she makes me laugh a lot, it's nice to know that there's a mutual amusement being shared.
Oooh! And the best part of rehearsal? After it was over! We had to be in a different room, the one near Stephanie A.'s office. We were by all the various posters and collages of the shows WNMTC has put on. I found the poster of their 1997 production of The Wizard of Oz, and found my wonderful cousin Kelsey! I showed Chris after (along with Hana's picture, since she was in it, too, and had showed me earlier) once we were dismissed. Stephanie A. announced that we could go to see the Nevada Opera put on their final dress rehearsal for The Merry Widow next Wednesday for free! Woo-hoo! Chris and I got Stephanie to put us down as very interested. Operas are great, especially when all you're paying for is the gas to Reno, and food if you get it! ;)
The title, you can probably guess, comes from the song "Summer Loving" from the ever popular, ever fluff musical Grease. I realized that next month, I'll have been blogging a year. And, while I didn't necessarily start with my musical lyrics as titles, it soon became a common practice. The best part? I've not yet repeated any! Some lyrics come from the same songs, but never the same set of lyrics. I don't know whether to be proud, or to be analyzed for this quirk.
March 08, 2005
Oh the things you can think!
Understandably, I did just write an entry yesterday, but so many things have been said since that I feel compelled to share them with anyone and everyone. All student related, of course. My life without students would certainly be more bland than it is at present, that's all I have to say!
1) Yesterday, I got my second marriage proposal of my life. The first one I got was when I was 16, from Andrew Dickenson--a10 year old I was in shows with. I said yes to him, because he gave me a hatful of money (if anyone wants the explanation, I'd be happy to share, but it is quite irrelevant beyond this point of my story). Anyway, yesterday, the 7th graders came in. Andrew said, "Ms. Brown? Have I told you today that I love you?"
"Why, no Andrew, you haven't. Thank you."
"Ms. Brown, I think we should get married. Will you marry me?"
"No, I don't think so."
"But I think we'd be great together!"
"I disagree. Sorry."
2) Students answers on their Bible tests from last Friday. We're currently studying chapter 14, the second part of chapter 13; all about Sampson. Last week it was about his being a Nazarite, his strength, and his first engagement to a Philistine. This week is Delilah. Anyway, I was grading Bible tests today and died laughing several times. Here are some examples:
Question: How was Sampson's birth announced?
Student Answer: Through an intercom?
Question: What was unique about this announcement?
Student Answer: Intercoms hadn't been invented yet.
Question: What can we learn from this chapter?
Student Answers (I've put in my three favorites): Don't ever trust girls. Don't believe your fiancee. Never marry a Philistine.
3) Ann just finished teaching Much Ado About Nothing to the the 8th graders. On one of her quizzes, she recently put on the question: "What was Dogberry's first question?" One of our students put, "Wazzup?" He's going to be a professor of English Literature, with his emphasis being Shakespeare, I just know it!
The title of today's post comes from a song of the same title from Suessical the Musical. I've not seen it, but the music I've heard is adorable.
1) Yesterday, I got my second marriage proposal of my life. The first one I got was when I was 16, from Andrew Dickenson--a10 year old I was in shows with. I said yes to him, because he gave me a hatful of money (if anyone wants the explanation, I'd be happy to share, but it is quite irrelevant beyond this point of my story). Anyway, yesterday, the 7th graders came in. Andrew said, "Ms. Brown? Have I told you today that I love you?"
"Why, no Andrew, you haven't. Thank you."
"Ms. Brown, I think we should get married. Will you marry me?"
"No, I don't think so."
"But I think we'd be great together!"
"I disagree. Sorry."
2) Students answers on their Bible tests from last Friday. We're currently studying chapter 14, the second part of chapter 13; all about Sampson. Last week it was about his being a Nazarite, his strength, and his first engagement to a Philistine. This week is Delilah. Anyway, I was grading Bible tests today and died laughing several times. Here are some examples:
Question: How was Sampson's birth announced?
Student Answer: Through an intercom?
Question: What was unique about this announcement?
Student Answer: Intercoms hadn't been invented yet.
Question: What can we learn from this chapter?
Student Answers (I've put in my three favorites): Don't ever trust girls. Don't believe your fiancee. Never marry a Philistine.
3) Ann just finished teaching Much Ado About Nothing to the the 8th graders. On one of her quizzes, she recently put on the question: "What was Dogberry's first question?" One of our students put, "Wazzup?" He's going to be a professor of English Literature, with his emphasis being Shakespeare, I just know it!
The title of today's post comes from a song of the same title from Suessical the Musical. I've not seen it, but the music I've heard is adorable.
March 07, 2005
A Mouthful of Cheer!
So, yesterday I saw South Lake Tahoe High School's production of Noises Off. I loved it! This show is one of my absolute favorite comedies. I'm sure many people could say so, but if you've done any theatre at all (or are as obsessed with it as I), it is about 1,000x more hysterical. I saw it first while in high school. The Picketwire Players in La Junta (one of the local community theatre groups) put it on, and we knew several cast members. My entire family saw it, and could not stop laughing! We talked to T.V. Hagenah (who played Selsdon in that show) and he mentioned something about the movie. That weekend we rented it, and laughed all over again. It had a good cast: Carol Burnett, John Ritter, Michael Caine, Christopher Reeves, Marilu Henner to name a few. Anyway, in London, Devon and I were going to see it. We agreed to see it after one weekend when she traveled. I was poring over my theatre guide, and learned of a travesty--the show was closing that weekend!!!!! I took myself down, bought a student ticket for the night before they closed. It was amazing.
So, SLTHS did a fine job, and Drake built an amazing set! Bubba was great as Freddy. Josh played a great Tim. I talked to him afterwards, only to learn he'd taken over the part on Sunday! Bri was the stage manager (which has got to be crazy with this show) and the assistant director to Nanette. Oh, I loved it. And the set was great--revolving between acts with the help of many cast and techies. Good times.
After, Chris and I decided to get something to eat. The weird guy has gone back to his vegetarian state, after a little stint with poultry. Go figure. Anyway, he used to live in Tahoe, and apparently discovered a great Vegetarian Resturant there. We went; it was literally called the Sprouts Cafe! Oh my. I ordered a Hummus Melt--which was AWESOME!!!!!!!!!! I think I'll have to make these on occasion to please my already spoiled taste buds. It was a bagel, lots of hummus, avacado, red and green onions, jack cheese with a little bit of pepper on top--heated up. MMMM. I couldn't finish it there, so I brought the second half home. I heated it up for lunch today, and bragged of my delicious lunch to everyone I found, which ranged from Mr. Libby to one of my students making up her test for me. I'm certain everyone else was immensly jealous of my great meal. If Jen Hill or Kara ever come out, I'll have to take them there for a meal, knowing their obsession with hummus. They used to make up impromptu songs about how amazing hummus is. They actually introduced me to it, which I have been grateful for since! I may like meat too much to become a vegetarian, but things like that are certainly a credit to vegetarians!
The title comes from the musical and movie Chitty Chitty Bang Bang from the song "Toot Sweet." Charming film, and show. Fun number. The hummus melt filled my mouth with cheer.
So, SLTHS did a fine job, and Drake built an amazing set! Bubba was great as Freddy. Josh played a great Tim. I talked to him afterwards, only to learn he'd taken over the part on Sunday! Bri was the stage manager (which has got to be crazy with this show) and the assistant director to Nanette. Oh, I loved it. And the set was great--revolving between acts with the help of many cast and techies. Good times.
After, Chris and I decided to get something to eat. The weird guy has gone back to his vegetarian state, after a little stint with poultry. Go figure. Anyway, he used to live in Tahoe, and apparently discovered a great Vegetarian Resturant there. We went; it was literally called the Sprouts Cafe! Oh my. I ordered a Hummus Melt--which was AWESOME!!!!!!!!!! I think I'll have to make these on occasion to please my already spoiled taste buds. It was a bagel, lots of hummus, avacado, red and green onions, jack cheese with a little bit of pepper on top--heated up. MMMM. I couldn't finish it there, so I brought the second half home. I heated it up for lunch today, and bragged of my delicious lunch to everyone I found, which ranged from Mr. Libby to one of my students making up her test for me. I'm certain everyone else was immensly jealous of my great meal. If Jen Hill or Kara ever come out, I'll have to take them there for a meal, knowing their obsession with hummus. They used to make up impromptu songs about how amazing hummus is. They actually introduced me to it, which I have been grateful for since! I may like meat too much to become a vegetarian, but things like that are certainly a credit to vegetarians!
The title comes from the musical and movie Chitty Chitty Bang Bang from the song "Toot Sweet." Charming film, and show. Fun number. The hummus melt filled my mouth with cheer.
March 02, 2005
When the dawn comes, tonight will be a memory too, and a new day will begin
This post is dedicated to my sister Jessica. Jessica, Jessica, Jessica. She is the sister who is the hardest for me to get along with (and, consequently, the hardest person I've ever known for me to get along with). She is married, and has two daughters. She lives in the Denver area (can't seem to leave Colorado). And today, today she is 23. How time does fly.
She is actually the very first memory I have, that I know of. I had been 2 years old for 10 days when she was born. I believe she was brought home soon after her birth. I remember looking out of the window of our mobile home (I lived in it until the age 4 1/2), and seeing my parents climb the stairs with a bundle of blankets in my mom's arms. My Grandma Brown leaned down to me and said, "That's your sister Jessica Dawn." I remember that both sets of my grandparents were there, taking care of me, which of course made me feel like the luckiest girl in the world! That image is so clear in my mind that once my mom and I had a dispute about it. I recalled the memory, and she said, "Grandma Brown wasn't there!"
"Yes she was!"
"My parents were there, but not the Browns."
"Yes they were."
"Hmmm . . . you know, now that I think about it, they were."
So, Happy Birthday sister o'mine. I don't think she reads my blog, but I've got to cover my bases, right?
In other news, Carson City is getting a whiff of spring lately. HUZZAH!!!!!!!!!! I cannot wait until it's the full blown impact of spring. Up until last Friday, it's been bitter cold. There wasn't even the slightest hint of sunlight for about a full two weeks. Slowly, and surely, I'm seeing the spring take over. Grass is looking a tad bit greener. Sunshine is prevailing (when it isn't raining; infinitely preferable to the snow imho). In the late morning until the early evening, I can take a jacket or leave it! After Charlie Brown on Saturday, both Chris and I turned to get our coats after we stood, and were pleased to see them missing--because we hadn't brought them!
If you cannot tell, spring is my favorite of all seasons. I love the renewal of color and warmth that hits. I love all the energy that fills me up and makes me want to go on bike rides, or jump rope, or take long walks, or . . . I love how instantly the entire world seems to be a better place and everyone seems to be in a better mood. I watch the grass for the moment when it goes to a complete, thorough, emerald green--and I always miss it! The brilliance of the green when I first notice it always shocks me as it thrills me. I long for the moment when I feel like wearing my summery/spring dresses to work again, along with my open toed shoes. I find myself walking with a lighter step and suppressing the urge to break into song less in the springtime. I think some of the magic of the spring is that it comes directly after winter. I'm always ready for spring about November or so. The patience I must endure makes the spring even more of a miraculous occurence.
So, the title is for Jessica. It's from the song "Memory" from CATS. I really can't stand that musical, but it is her favorite, and this is her favorite song from it (possibly even her favorite song, period). I will set aside my loathing of the show for my sister on her birthday. Happy Birthday, Jess! I love you!
She is actually the very first memory I have, that I know of. I had been 2 years old for 10 days when she was born. I believe she was brought home soon after her birth. I remember looking out of the window of our mobile home (I lived in it until the age 4 1/2), and seeing my parents climb the stairs with a bundle of blankets in my mom's arms. My Grandma Brown leaned down to me and said, "That's your sister Jessica Dawn." I remember that both sets of my grandparents were there, taking care of me, which of course made me feel like the luckiest girl in the world! That image is so clear in my mind that once my mom and I had a dispute about it. I recalled the memory, and she said, "Grandma Brown wasn't there!"
"Yes she was!"
"My parents were there, but not the Browns."
"Yes they were."
"Hmmm . . . you know, now that I think about it, they were."
So, Happy Birthday sister o'mine. I don't think she reads my blog, but I've got to cover my bases, right?
In other news, Carson City is getting a whiff of spring lately. HUZZAH!!!!!!!!!! I cannot wait until it's the full blown impact of spring. Up until last Friday, it's been bitter cold. There wasn't even the slightest hint of sunlight for about a full two weeks. Slowly, and surely, I'm seeing the spring take over. Grass is looking a tad bit greener. Sunshine is prevailing (when it isn't raining; infinitely preferable to the snow imho). In the late morning until the early evening, I can take a jacket or leave it! After Charlie Brown on Saturday, both Chris and I turned to get our coats after we stood, and were pleased to see them missing--because we hadn't brought them!
If you cannot tell, spring is my favorite of all seasons. I love the renewal of color and warmth that hits. I love all the energy that fills me up and makes me want to go on bike rides, or jump rope, or take long walks, or . . . I love how instantly the entire world seems to be a better place and everyone seems to be in a better mood. I watch the grass for the moment when it goes to a complete, thorough, emerald green--and I always miss it! The brilliance of the green when I first notice it always shocks me as it thrills me. I long for the moment when I feel like wearing my summery/spring dresses to work again, along with my open toed shoes. I find myself walking with a lighter step and suppressing the urge to break into song less in the springtime. I think some of the magic of the spring is that it comes directly after winter. I'm always ready for spring about November or so. The patience I must endure makes the spring even more of a miraculous occurence.
So, the title is for Jessica. It's from the song "Memory" from CATS. I really can't stand that musical, but it is her favorite, and this is her favorite song from it (possibly even her favorite song, period). I will set aside my loathing of the show for my sister on her birthday. Happy Birthday, Jess! I love you!
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