Not for the Life of Me--Bo-do-di-oh!

To love another person is to see the face of God

2011-10-30T17:34:00.001-07:00

Wow it's been a long time! Certainly this was not my intent. I just . . . ah, who even knows. So I'm back for now. Hopefully this time will be better.

I've been going through a lot of hard changes in my life this year, but they've been directly affecting other people and I'm a casualty of said hard changes (for the most part). I don't like it at all. I hate seeing people I love and who mean a lot to me going through so much pain. I don't like that I go through so much pain along with them. This rough wave has been hitting me pretty hard lately in terms of my perception. It's been getting pretty sour and I'm not going to lie, I'm not handling it altogether that well Prayer has been what gets me through these things.

One of the weirdest side effects is the fact that every time I go to church anymore I seem to cry. Or I feel like crying. I'm not sure what it is about church that gets my waterworks going but there it is. I've been making sure that when I go I can sit with family, Natalee, or Kristen. I don't always love going by myself, but I have in the past. Now I can't seem to do it. I wish I knew what the reason was because I'm fine everywhere else. Usually. Even at home I seem to do okay, for the most part. I can't say I'm loving this newfound sensitivity. Perhaps I'm literally crying out to God. I don't know, but I feel weird doing it. Not because I feel uncomfortable crying in church, but because it's all the time!

So here I sit, trying to make sense of my newest quirk. I can tell you that it's not endearing. It's awkward. I hoped seeing it typed out would help, but apparently it's not going to.

The title comes from the song "Confession" from Les Miserables, and it is perhaps my favorite line in the show.

The hills (mall) are alive with the sound of music

2010-04-26T20:21:00.000-07:00

You probably cannot spot me, but I'm in the big crowd! :) It was a fun random thing to do on a Sunday in Reno . . . betcha wish you'd been there to watch or join in, huh? We also hit up the airport earlier in the afternoon.

I haven't seen a crocus or a rosebud

2010-04-06T00:12:00.000-07:00

It's the beginning of my spring break. Wa-Hoo!!! However, I've been going over the schedule for the week. It is just as busy and filled as any other week. It's only devoid of mandatory work (though I intend to go in and gradegradegrade). I think if I ever slow down I would truly die. Like, that's the end of life as I know it, and no that's not a joke.

My show is next week. I'm enjoying it, but scared about how strong I am on my lines. Playing 14 roles. Transitions within the scenes that do not seem to be logical at all. However it is a powerful show. Despite all the controversy surrounding it I honestly think it's one that everyone who sees it will agree and disagree with various sections. I truly appreciate the cast. I laugh a lot and cause a lot of laughter as well. All in all, it's a good experience. I haven't done anything this heavy since . . . perhaps it's the heaviest play I've ever participated in. I can appreciate the love and ease of a comedy, but a drama touches the soul and is what can change lives.

I'm going prom dress shopping this week. Yes you read that correctly. I am going to be chaperoning this year's prom. At 30, I'm going to my first prom. The amusement I find myself noticing over this situation seems to know no end. Feel free to chuckle along with me.

The title of this post is lifted from the lyrics of "It Might as Well be Spring" from State Fair. I'm incredibly sick of our ridiculous weather we have here. I hate that we never have a spring. I hate that the weather teases me with a week of decent weather and then slams me with snow and freezing rain. Ugh. I miss Exeter. I really felt there was a magic in the spring there. Nevada SUCKS!!!!!!!!!

The sun has gone to bed and so must I

2010-03-22T21:51:00.000-07:00

I can't promise how much better I'll be at blogging, but I think I'll already beat last year's pathetic attempt, or close to it with this one. I just kind of feel like writing.

I've decided that I am truly going to pursue my wish to teach overseas on army bases. I'm done working on a master's, still single, and (no offense) feeling a bit stagnant in Carson City. Why not? I have no idea what will happen, but I'm excited for the process. My first choice would be England which would be a two year commitment. How fantastic to live there for two years! I know God will do what He wants, and I'm certainly looking for that guidance. However He placed this thrill of travel in my spirit. I don't think it will be completely off base to attempt this adventure.

On another note, I'm still adjusting to this ridiculous time change. It seems worse this year, and I don't know why. I think my hatred of mornings grows with age. I'm finding that I am rolling out of bed later and later with each day. It seems pretty harsh.

I'm enjoying spending time with my friends in the reinstatement of Glee night. We're watching Flight of the Conchords and Firefly. I already knew I loved the former. I've never seen the latter before and the jury is still out on it. I'm told I have to give it a few episodes. One of the highlights is getting a chance to play with Eden, Warren and Nicole's daughter. She likes to pull my hair, play with my face, and talk with me. Hi-lar-ious!

I need to head off to bed to fight my battle with morning. Ugh. The title is probably one you've guessed. From "So Long, Farewell" from The Sound of Music. Good night John-Boy!

Granny dear, mother mine, old and gray at 29, not for the life of me!

2010-02-16T20:21:00.000-08:00

I turn 30 on Saturday, and the funk has begun. I hate getting older. Truly, I loathe it. I didn't like it when I was a kid either, so it's not new. I don't know why I personally have always been youth obsessed, but apparently that's my schtick. Around Valentine's day is when it gets icky, and this year proved to follow in that very pattern. I mean, I'm grateful for the show I was a part of as it served to distract me (for the most part) from my glumness. I have been sick and without a regular voice for about 10 days now, which is certainly not helping the situation. That along with the fact that I've recently had a friendship change considerably, and not for the better of which I was acutely aware throughout the show, this year isn't a great one for perky optimism. I seriously believe I suffer from seasonal depressions, but not necessarily every year. It's not fun. I don't like falling into that abyss which eats at me and makes me feel like a failure with no direction in life. It's certainly not the worst case I've suffered, nor is it a mild case.

Anyway, I have been absent from this blog for quite awhile, but I think that the completion of grad classes will help. I've missed writing for this online journal.I highly doubt I have any readers and that is more than okay. That's not why I do this.

And now . . . for the one consistent . . . the birthday list!

30 movies I would highly recommend to others:

1) Gone With the Wind
2) Much Ado About Nothing
3) A&E's Pride and Prejudice
4) Dead Poet's Society
5) All About Eve
6) Anne of Green Gables
7) Singing in the Rain
8) That Thing You Do
9) The Reluctant Debutante
10) Newsies
11) Darby O'Gill and the Little People
12) Sleeping Beauty
13) Enchanted
14) Charade
15) Sense and Sensibility (Emma Thompson's script and acting)
16) You've Got Mail
17) White Christmas
18) Stranger than Fiction
19) Laura
20) Meet Me in St. Louis
21) Ballet Shoes
22) The Parent Trap(Haley Mills)
23) Mean Girls
24) Up
25) Gentleman's Agreement
26) What's Up Doc?
27) Return to Me
28) Waiting for Guffman
29) Across the Universe
30) The Muppets Take Manhatten

All movies I have enjoyed for a variety of reasons. I may be the only person who enjoys each of them as a list, but I do enjoy them. For some reason, this list was easier to write than the others! I have more to recommend, no doubt, but these certainly came to mind (and, in some cases, sight) today. I dare someone to watch them all and not find one they enjoy. Really. I DARE you! :)

The title of today's post was lifted from lyrics from the song "Not for the Life of Me" from Thoroughly Modern Millie.

Empty Chairs at Empty Tables

2009-05-12T20:30:00.000-07:00

I've recently come into some bad news regarding school, and it has absolutely nothing to do with the economy. I've learned that two students I've had have died within the last few weeks. One I had while I taught at Opp. One I had up (literally) until last week.

Tlaloc came to Opp as a squirrely, but funny freshmen. He seemed to get along with most of the students, was not gang affiliated (at the time), and was the sort who I would laugh about after school because of the crazy things he'd say. The next year he came to school with a major chip on his shoulder. Something happened over the summer and it made him an angry, angsty kid. We eventually put him into afternoon school because of the problems he was creating. His behavior, when he came, was horrible. Finally it was decided mom or dad would come with him. It did not improve for anybody. Then the summer came and I moved onto CHS. Every now and then I'd hear about him. It sounded like he was getting better. On Friday, I learned he died. He was being chased on foot by the police in Reno and took a crazy leap (from what I understand) which took his life.

The other student died on Sunday--that's right, Mother's Day. He'd been missing a lot of school and finally withdrew so he could attend Adult Ed. and get his GED. From what I understand he had been really going off into the deep end with drugs and such. When he was coming pretty regularly he made me laugh. He had an enthusiasm and was a leader in my off-beat, close-knit Media class. He would volunteer to read the part of Steve when we read Walter Dean Myer's novel Monster. His story was odd. The detectives are still working out the bugs. He was shoved out of his car on the highway in Washoe on the way to Reno. It sounds like Rene was shot prior to being pushed out of the car. He died. A man pulled over to see if he could help since he thought the car had broken down--this man is the father of a student I had last year. The murderer shot him in the leg (which did some damage) and took off. He pulled off the highway as soon as he could and began taking off his clothes as the police pursued him. Not only that, but he was throwing money away in the field as well (quite a bit, too). They found him naked in the bushes. This is what I know, fact wise.

Emotionally-wise, I'm stunned. Truly, utterly stunned. Things like this happen in the movies. Not here. Not to people I know. Not to people whom I am so connected to. It's all anyone can talk about as new information is still coming out. I feel so, well, I don't know. I'm upset. I'm angry. I'm sympathetic. I'm scared. I'm concerned. I'm optimistic. I don't know what to do. I want to offer help in a practical way but I'm at a loss as to what to do. I want to be available to my students in every possible way. The surreal events have cast a gloom over the doors of our high school for many while others seem completely unaware of anything. I wish things like this could make sense right away. I'm sure that would help in the grieving process. Perhaps that's a part of it. The grieving process is relieved in the search for a higher purpose to such seemingly pointless violence that touches so many.

The lyrics are from the song with the same title from Les Miserables.

There was a time my feet were so solidly planted

2009-03-15T15:06:00.000-07:00

Has it really been since October? Yikes! A quick recap of the last few months:

~My bank account was hacked into and cleared out. In December. Yeah, good timing. It finally all seems to be okay now, but it's really as of this week that that is completely the case.

~I submitted my ARP proposal in December. And heard that it was accepted last week. I begin working with the kids the week after next.

~I was teacher of the month in February. Make that Rookie teacher of the month (at the high school less than 5 years).

~I was nominated for and won the Albert Award for Best Actress of the year award for my performance as Ariel in The Tempest.

~I spent my 29th birthday at DISNEYLAND with my cousin Brad (whose in the navy) and my sister Janina. Twas a fun time had by moi!

~I was in a production of A Grand Night For Singing, and had a lovely time. I somehow think I was the only one who really did, but oh well.

~I'm rehearsing for a show called Laundry and Bourban which opens on Wednesday and plays Wednesday nights until the end of April.

~I visited Southern California for Thanksgiving and saw the majority of my relatives. I figured out that in 2008, I saw all but 4 of my cousins (out of 15), and one of my aunts (out of five) from my extended family. Yes, I saw five uncles, four grandparents, four aunts, 11 cousins, two sisters, one brother-in-law, and two nieces in the course of one year. Considering how spread out the family is now, that's quite a feat!

~I performed in Sweet Sounds and did a special number--"The Most Wonderful Time of the Year" for teachers. Natalee and I wrote the lyrics. Twas funny!

~I survived another round of Senior Project Teacher Drafts (only 48 this year!), and the majority of my students have passed now. HUZZAH!!!

~I've written 16 pages of my ARP paper so far.

Plus the every day, run-of-the-mill news, those are the biggies since October. I look over the list and wonder how it's possible.

And because I was so late, here's my birthday list:

29 things I'm proud of:

1) I am a hard worker.
2) I can memorize quickly.
3) Even working fulltime as an English teacher, and doing a play a semester (or so), I maintain As in my grad classes.
4) I can make my nieces laugh. Both of them.
5) I do not sit around waiting for life to happen--I MAKE it happen.
6) I have a wonderful circle of friends and family.
7) I have learned to love my own company. Perhaps too much, but I don't need others to entertain me.
8) I know a lot about areas that interest me.
9) I can surprise myself with my own abilities.
10) I a strong moral center which helps keep my life in check.
11) Many friends over the years have learned that I can be trusted with confidential feelings, news, etc. Even some acquaintances have learned this.
12) I have a healthy appreciation for classic literature.
13) I have been able to play some wonderful Shakespeare females in plays.
14) I love life! I find those who don't to be fairly bland people.
15) I can sing a variety of musical genres which I enjoy!
16) When I am in a play or show I can be counted on to be prepared and ready to go early on. In my high school theatre days, my director/teacher often would give me something new the last week of the show (lines, songs, etc.) when others would flake out on her.
17) I have a relationship with Jesus Christ.
18) While I am a picky eater, I do try to take risks when I eat new foods; I often surprise myself with how much I like.
19) I can have well-informed and insightful conversations about the show Lost.
20) I have the ability to touch the lives of adolescents 180 days of the year (at minimum!).
21) I have kept a journal since I was 12. They're pretty funny to look back on now.
22) I think the majority of people who know me have nice things to say about me.
23) I have built up a reputation for being good at theatre--to the point where people are asking me to be in shows, no audition required!
24) I try to improve upon my teaching every year.
25) I still get excited about teaching!
26) I'm a pretty good speller. A love of language strengthens this natural ability.
27) I have a fairly dependable job and tenure--that helps!
28) I have a unique name which I like.
29) I am comfortable with my life and where I am.

The title comes from the song "Back to Before" from Ragtime. Phenomenal song. Particularly when sung by Marin Mazzie. What a talented woman!

Let's run away to Atlantic City

2008-10-25T13:21:00.000-07:00

While I sadly have no plans to visit anywhere soon, even New Jersey, I am thrilled with the fact that I get a full two week break from grad school. Nothing hangs over my head. I don't mentally need to prepare for anything. It's almost making me giddy! :) I have not had a real two week break since the program began. I mean, I get two weeks off for Christmas, but that was in the middle of a class, so it didn't really count! I have enjoyed week one, so it's time to salvage what I have left and get 'r done!

I sometimes wonder if the program I'm in is worth it. I'm not particularly passionate about the subject. I signed on for it when I still taught at the alternative high school, and it was much more pertinent, applicable, and my time was much more available. But then I remind myself it's only a little more than 14 months away, and I've spent all this money, etc. I just don't know if it's worth it to me. Perhaps a program I cared more about, yes, but I don't know if this is it. I should figure it out soon, because if not, I'm stressing a TON about an Action Research Project and paper that is due at the end of the spring. I don't like the idea of quitting, nor do I like the idea of having spent all this money on books and tuition, etc. However if I feel somewhat apathetic about the whole ordeal, that's making the process harder too, and possibly not worth the trouble. Please send me advice, those of you with grad school experience. I really am stuck and don't know what to do. At all. It sucks!!!

I keep planning out things I want to do; after grad school is over. Things like teaching overseas. Doing more plays. Reading for long lengths of time because I can. Sigh. Well, here's an example: Last summer when I spent my 10 hours in NYC I had a ball. I love New York so much! Anyway, my friends said, "Why don't you spend the summer here? You could get a job working at a theatre as an usher, or a dresser or something. We'd help, and you could stay with us!" I'm still dazzled by this idea and really want to do it! I want to go out there and just live. I get paid through the summer. Perhaps I could FINALLY make it up to PEI and visit all of Anne's haunting grounds. I looked at my summer class schedule and it looks like it's a doozy. Is it worth it? I mean really. I honestly don't know if I could really get a chance to experience living in New York over the summer if I'm tied down with tons of classes that honestly do not sound even remotely interesting to me.

So I throw this question out to the masses. Should I bother? Really and truly bother with the rest of this program that really doesn't stir any excitement up in me anymore. I mean, it's interesting, but I don't know if my stubbornness to continue in such a program for the sake of not being a quitter really cuts it for me. But then what? When do I get a masters? Are all programs like this? HELP!!!

The title comes from the song "Atlantic City" from Ragtime, which (along with Les Miserables) is my favorite musical.

Everything was beautiful at the ballet

2008-09-18T19:01:00.000-07:00

As I'm sure you guessed, I'm a movie fanatic. Old, new, foreign, indie; I'm all over them. I love a good story whether it teaches me something, makes me cry, makes me want to get up and dance, or makes me laugh until my sides hurt. I use my discretion to screen those I'd be interested in and those I would not.

I also love books. I have always loved books. I, again, love a good story. Classics, contemporary, childrens, foreign, etc. Reading allows me to go anywhere, any time, and meet some of the greatest characters a person could ever hope to return to.

When the two are paired, I've learned that it can go one of two ways: fantastic or a dismal failure. I always hope for the best, but alas it cannot always be the case. I always get excited when I hear of one of my favorite books is being turned into a film.

Around last December I turned to a childhood favorite. Well, actually, three of my childhood favorites. Noel Streatfield's classics: Ballet Shoes, Theatre Shoes, and Dancing Shoes. I've always been charmed by these stories. I love the British factor, the history factor, the performance factor, and the charm factor. There is something that will always endear me toward these stories.

After I read them, I decided to look them up on Amazon to see if they were films. There was one made of Ballet Shoes made many years ago. And then . . . there was one to be playing on the BBC on Boxing Day last year, which had a fantastic cast. I was so excited! Emilia Fox! Gemma Jones! Harriet Walters! Richard Griffiths! Emma Watson! HUZZAH! Sadly, it was not on a DVD which had the ability to be played on American DVD players.

So on Thursday I had a rotten time at UNR. I went to Barnes and Noble to calm down enough to drive safely. And to wait to see if Dana was still interested in our tenative dinner plans. I was browsing many areas within the wonderful two story building filled to the brim with information and imagination. I meandered toward the films. They were playing an ad for Ballet Shoes--the version I'd been dying to see! I went on the rampage searching for it to see if they actually had the movie. To my delight--they did! So I bought it.

It was charming. Not completely like the book (the girls were older, for one), but still lovely. One thing cracked me up like no other. It was rated PG. Why? Because there was one scene where two of the adults smoked (gasp!). It lasted all of maybe two minutes. And Emilia Fox (Garnie) coughed as a result of her attempt at it. Hilarious!

The title comes from a song called "At the Ballet" from A Chorus Line. It seemed fitting.

Keep it Positive!

2008-08-24T15:27:00.000-07:00

So, yeah, school begins tomorrow. Lordy! How did it get here so fast? I've been to the school everyday since August 11. It's been jam-packed with LinkCrewFreshmenOrientationTeacherInservices. This time can also be known as many meetings, no real school prep time allotted. So I've been staying until 4-5 again. Anyway, I rearranged my classroom to fit some different things I want to try and I must say I like it a lot. It seems roomier and more aesthetic to me. I'm also able to fit more students in (which is good since my biggest class so far is 32 students, my smallest is 24). Yay moi!

In a couple of weeks I'm heading up to Seattle--possibly my favorite city on the West Coast. Why? To visit Esther again. This time, I think Fin (or Kristina for those who didn't know Kara really well) will be joining us. 'Twill be fun. Particularly since we're going to be seeing Shrek. No, not the movie sillies! The stage production which begins in Seattle before heading to Broadway. It stars many of my favorites, including Sutton Foster. And Brian d'Arcy James (Who is involved in a personal story of mine which lends itself to much humiliation on my part from when I was a teenager--I love telling the story, but I don't particularly feel like writing it out now).

So, here's to teachers who are in my boat. I am sure we all feel the same way. Nervous, unprepared, and gearing ourselves up for exhaustion and great hunger (at least, I always feel like I'm eating so much more at the beginning of the year than later). Good luck--08/09 will be a great year for all (I hope!).

The title comes from the song with the same title from Legally Blonde the musical. I won't necessarily suggest that "It's positively time to shake your junk!", but it would be good to keep a positive attitude in the fall and throughout the year.

In the good old Summertime!

2008-08-12T12:08:00.000-07:00

Yeah, so it's been years since my last post. Well, so it feels to moi! It has been one jam-packed summer, let me tell you!

Okay, June: We had to stay awhile after the kids went home. The teachers got a raise, and that was how the union helped us get that (since the state was adding it this coming year anyway). So I took off that Monday after we were done, and flew to LA to visit with Nina and my cousin Kelsey. Janina and I spent time at Disneyland/DCA, the adorable town of Fullerton, and a day in Hollywood. Twas fun. However, my phone rang non-stop while on this vacation.

Why? Well, I had signed up to teach summer school, and I was only supposed to teach afternoon. It did not happen. These phone calls went as follows: Carson Middle school needed a summer school teacher and were willing to let me do two days a week, the high school had a lot of students sign up late for summer school (thanks to the arrival of report cards, no doubt) and needed me to teach a morning session as well (so there would be two morning sessions--myself and my friend Lori). Basically, it felt like a tug-of-war, and I ultimately made the choice to teach morning so I could make more money for my vacation. It was nice to earn that money, but I don't know that I'd do two sessions again. Especially not with over 60 students and 35 minutes of break within those two sessions.

I was in a production of The Tempest. Actually, it was part Shakespeare, part Cameron Crain (our director, Ferdinand, and president of the Nevada Shakespeare Company). They marketed it as The Tempest, Kinda a freely adapted script. I played Ariel. My hair was Cyndi Lauper from the 80s huge, with green face makeup and glitter (which I'm still trying to get off from Saturday--our last show). It was a very silly production. You know, I have to say that it worked though. The audience up there prefers that. And while I like the show enough to read, I imagine it's hard to sit through all those monologues. Gotta say, it's not my favorite Shakespeare.

Because of the show, though, I could not attend my 10 year reunion from high school. I have to admit I was curious, but it didn't work out. I did make it out East though. I took a five day vacation (since I don't have a full free week this summer) to the opposite coast. I left Reno at midnight after our first Saturday show and flew to Houston, then Baltimore. Jen (Hill) Boutz picked me up and we went off to visit Mount Vernon. Because of the time that we got there and the line, we decided against going into the house. We, instead, visited his farm and such. The last time I was there I was 11 (when the Queen of Norway was there and said hello to us!). Most of what I saw wasn't there in 1991. It was actually very ingenious, some of the stuff he created and did. From there, we were going to visit old town Alexandria, but I called my oousin who works in Alexandria. Jen and I met with Marissa at the movie theater she works at and had dinner with her at Panera (a place we need out here!). I haven't seen her in about 8 years, so that was fun. She then let us into the movie theater for free where we saw the X-Files movie. Watching it with Jen was fun--it was like being in college again! :) The next day I went into D.C. on my own since Jen and her husband both had work and study plans. I took myself to the Library of Congress. It was awesome! I definitely saw the Gutenberg Bible, but many of the other displays I was interested in were closed down. :( Luckily, the Bob Hope vaudeville and career exhibit was open and fascinating. I got to see Eddie Foy's tap shoes! I got to see Houdini's handcuffs and shackles! Everything I saw was fascinating to me. His career was really impressive (which I knew, but to see his stuff was awesome!). Then I took myself to see the Holocaust museum. I didn't have a lot of time, but I saw the David exhibit (the kid's perspective) and I saw the special exhibit--the 1936 Berlin Olympics. Oi! I learned so many fascinating things. I felt ignorant in the fact that the only Olympian I recognized was Jesse Owens. Hitler was able to spread a lot of his propaganda. So many countries considered not attending in protest, but ultimately decided against it. It was interesting to see the way that seemed to encourage the Nazi movement.

In the late afternoon, I took myself to the train station and hopped a train for Princeton. I was met there by Kara Lyons-Pardue. I had dinner with she and her husband Charlie. The next day I explored Princeton while Kara studied and tutored. The campus was amazing. I visited the chapel and what I could of the library (only students can use it, but they have displays the public can visit). The children's section of the library was wonderful! They had pillows and books everywhere, but they also had "play places". Houses, a well, a tree with a treehouse--all of which were for the kids to read in. It's hard to explain, but so cool! I then went in and saw a display that had an amazing collection of 1st edition books donated by many alumni, and a rare coin collection (some coins dating back to 300 something B.C.! I checked out the art museum, some of the theatre stuff, and I tried to sneak into a dorm, but alas, access was denied. :( In the afternoon Charlie picked the two of us up and we three headed to Philadelphia! Why? Oh, just to visit the Franklin Museum and to visit National Geographic's Pirate exhibit! It was so awesome! They'd brought up artifacts from a Pirate ship that sank. It was interesting to see the various things they used and what it taught today's people (such as weapons they did not know had existed). Based on what I learned, it confirmed my impression: had I lived in those times, I would have wanted to be a pirate! :D We actually got to touch pirate treasure, too!

The next day, I had some stupid train fiascos on both ways, but I headed into NYC. I was able to meet up with my Nevada friend, Marcus. The two of us went to the Met and saw some of the cool displays and exhibits. One special one was superhero costumes and how they've inspired fashion designers for runway outfits. It was really interesting to not only see it, but to learn some of the subtext the clothing suggests. Last time I was at that museum, I was 17 and didn't actually see a lot. This time I didn't have a ton of time, but I visited a couple of places (including one of the displays of furniture which reminded me of From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler, which I loved as a kid). Marcus and I left to eat an Irish pub on 46th street with some friends of mine. The name of the pub? The Pig and Whistle! The friends? Ashleigh (from Tahoe) and Katie (from high school). The three of them got along famously. It was so much fun, and I had an EXCELLENT shepard's pie! :) Marcus and I then saw Young Frankenstein
with the original cast (sans one of my favorites, Sutton Foster!). I think I laughed through about 95% of the show. They did some truly amazing things and it was hi-larious!!!!!!!!! I got home uber late thanks to train delays. I felt incredibly bad, because I had an early flight out of Philly.

The next day I had to leave, which was an adventure, but nothing too notable.

The rest of my summer has included seeing many plays (Richard III, Cambio, Midsummer, The Complete Works of William Shakepeare Abriged,another Midsummer, scenes from the LTSF kids camp, etc.), grad school (three more classes done, one started yesterday), family time, reading, and more. My time back at CHS started yesterday, even though school doesn't start until the 25th. Link Crew runs freshmen orientation, so we're gearing up for that. Tonight I'm auditioning for South Pacific. And there you have it!

The title is an old song, but it was used in the musical film In the Good Old Summertime with Van Johnson and Judy Garland. It's based on the movie The Shop Around the Corner. Funnily enough that film inspired the musical already mentioned, a Broadway musical called She Loves Me, and the film You've Got Mail!

It's a Most Unusual Day

2008-06-08T10:56:00.000-07:00

Okay, so yesterday I had a typical "Lynette's Catastrophe" day. Nothing too bad; just a string of very strange occurrences. This used to happen to me a lot. It's been awhile since. I almost forgot that I did this. Until yesterday.

Okay, so yesterday was the CHS graduation. I wanted to get there around 9 since it started at 10 and parking goes insane. Well, I had my house keys and had to get my car keys from the jacket I'd worn on Friday when I went to Reno. Yeah, my house keys totally disappeared in the process. So I used my other key, put the laundry in my car to take to my parents' house after the ceremony, and drove off to Starbucks for chai before going to the football field (I got off later than I wanted). The line was long and I got out later than I wanted--I didn't get to the high school until about 9:30.

I had to park behind the soccer field that's behind the school. The gate to the field on my side was open. I asked if the cop there I could cross the field and he said okay. I started making my way there and the head of security at CHS, Orlando, came up and said I couldn't because the other side was probably locked. I walked all the way around. Then I headed towards the big gym where the graduates were contained. I joined the teachers in the cheering tunnel for the graduates as they walked onto the field. Then Beci, Jackie and I sat in the chairs for teachers which are behind the graduates. The ceremony was okay.

Afterwards, I congratulated several of my students and headed to the administration conference room for the food they left for the teachers. A few of us stayed out there for awhile to let the traffic die down. On my way back to the car, I thought I'd see if the gate was locked on the far side of my car; if not, I could cross the soccer field. It was open! I walked across and . . . they'd locked the side that was open when I came in!!!!!!!!!! GR! I decided that rather than walk around and take an extra 15-20 minutes, I would climb the chain link fence. Yup, in my new white sundress with blue green flowers, I climbed the fence.

So I drove out to Dayton. I realized that I'd forgotten my cell phone at home, so I couldn't call my parents (who were on their way to Sacramento to see Phantom of the Opera) to see if they had a spare key somewhere (and after the event on my birthday, Lord knows they should). I figured I'd just open the gate to the backyard, walk to the garage and enter the house from the entrance in the garage. Nice plan, right?

Had it worked. Oh, if only it had! No, the door to the garage was locked, as was the rest of their house. I figured my one shot was the doggie door. I reached in (after I removed the board to block the doggie door), and while I could touch the door handle, I could not turn or unlock it. Fortunately for me, I was actually able to fit inside the doggie door. Unfortunately for my dress and white elbow length shrug, it was muddy. So my first load was the dress and sweater.

I had a rehearsal at three. It was about 1:30ish when I got to Dayton. I washed the dress and sweater. Then I ran them quickly through the dryer on a quick air-dry cycle. Still damp. I ran them through a quick heated cycle. I had to do this until they were "dry enough" to wear. I left the house about 2:50. I zoomed up to Gold Hill and regaled them with my late excuse (which they loved). Then we rehearsed.

The rest of the day was event-free. And when I went home, I found my house keys . . . in my bathroom. I really don't know what to do with myself at times.

The title comes from a song with the same title. It's from a "B" movie musical from the 1940s called A Date With Judy. It's fun. It has Jane Powell and Elizabeth Taylor as teenagers.

Life's not worth a damn till you can shout "Hey World--I am what I am!"

2008-05-20T22:30:00.000-07:00

Yes, apologies are in order since I have shamefully neglected this blog. I just haven't been feeling "it" lately. That, combined with a never-ending schedule, seem to be my major downfalls. Sorry.

Anyway, in the last month or so:

Romeo and Juliet ended up going pretty darned well. I never killed myself in the swordfights. We had great audiences and the ending had the cast crying every single night--I kid you not! We went for raw emotion, and I think the effect was beautiful.

I auditioned for The Tempest with Nevada Shakespeare Company/Gold Hill. I will be spending a good portion of the summer portraying Ariel! Goodness! Never really pictured myself playing that part, but I'm excited to give it a go.

I decided to turn down the opportunity to perform in A Midsummer Night's Dream because I looked at my finances. It wasn't feasible financially, so I changed plans and I'll be teaching Summer School until mid-July. Eh. It won't be too bad.

I'm testifying to the Education Committee of the Nevada State Legislature with a few other people on Thursday. YIKES!!!! Not only do I have to miss teaching my absolute favorite class (seriously, it's fun content and I adore these students), but I know I'll feel nervous. I'm talking about Link Crew and Fresh Start.

Fresh Start is a new program at CHS next year that I am going to be developing and teaching. I was asked to do it because of my "strong background in differentiated instruction". I was surprised by that. Anyway, I'll be working with at-risk freshmen and teaching skills to help the transition to high school be easier. I'm actually pretty stoked, because I think it'll be an interesting challenge. I'll teach two sections of that next year.

Speaking of changes to my teaching schedule, I'm also going to be teaching a section of Beginning Drama next year! Huzzah for moi!!!!! I am only going to teach 2 sections of American Literature (which is a fun class to teach). Next year looks like fun!

I am trying to plan a trip out East this summer. Anyone want to be a travel companion? I want to visit my friends Marcus and Ashleigh in NYC, Kelly in PA, Kara at Princeton, Jen in D.C. Laurissa in Baltimore. I also want to visit PEI to see Anne Shirley's place, but so far no one else can go with me. We'll see. If I can swing my 10 year high school reunion in La Junta, CO as well, I'll do it. I can't believe it's been so long, and I have to admit I'm really curious about it.

Anyway, there's my life in a nutshell at the moment. Always more, but I'm tired and about to hit the hay. The title of the post comes from the song "I Am What I Am" from La Cage Aux Folles. I felt I could identify with it, because I've been a lazy blogger of late. Sorry if the swearing was offensive, but it really does need to be there for the impact of the lyrics, imho.

I Wanna Be Where the People Are . . .

2008-03-19T22:37:00.000-07:00

Crazy! A new Anne book? I'm intrigued and nervous at the same time. Let's hope it stays truer to the stories than Scarlett did to Gone With the Wind. Check this article out: http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20080319/lf_nm_life/book_anne_dc

I also got a book today that makes me excited. A Choose Your Own Adventure style book for Jane Austen!!!!!!!!! I can't wait to get started and see if my Elizabeth Bennett choices actually get her with Darcy or Mr. Knightly or . . .

Next week is Spring Break. I'm heading to Ashland! Woo-hoo!!!!!! I'm seeing Midsummer, The Clay Cart, and Fences. Fun times!

Yes, the song is "Part of Your World" from The Little Mermaid. It recently opened on Broadway and some of my NYC friends have seen it. Oh so jealous am I!

Dancing through Life!

2008-02-17T11:47:00.000-08:00

Funny coincidence about this particular post. It's my 220th! Funny since my birthdate is 2/20. Very strange happening.

Okay, so, for my birthday list. Apparently I always post it 3 days before my birthday, so I'm just following tradition. So here it is--28 accomplishments in (almost) 28 years:

1) Learning to read (age 4 or 5)
2) Learning to ride a bike (age 9--seriously!)
3) Performing in my first play--Church Nativity Play (age 4)
4) Performing in my first ballet--Cinderella--Garland Girl (age 8)
5) Performing in my first musical--You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown--Patty (age 13)
6) First award that meant something real to me--A Humanitarian Award from 8th grade graduation (age 14)
7) First read a chapter book (age 6 or 7)
8) Learned to swim (age 6)
9) First team sport joined and played--Basketball (age 8)
10) First G.A.T.E. class--Sign Language (age 6)
11) First time on television--Journalism trip to the local News Station in Fresno (age 13)
12) Graduated from high school (age 18)
13) Graduated from college (age 22)
14) First traveled out of the country--France, Germany, and Italy on a Choir Tour (age 21)
15) First Shakespearean Play read and performed in--A Midsummer Night Dream--Titania (age 13)
16) First college show--Fiddler on the Roof--Chorus (age 18-19)
17) First state Forensics Meet--Columbine High School, Columbine, CO (age 16)
18) First solo song in a show--Church Play (age 9)
19) First tap show (age 26)
20) First graduate class (age 27)
21) First baby-sitting job (age 11)
22) Becoming an aunt (age 19)
23) Becoming a big sister (age 2)
24) Becoming a licensed driver (age 16)
25) First travel to New York City (age 17)
26) First "independent" trip--London (age 22)
27) First teaching job (age 23)
28) First true "home" after I moved away from my parents (age 23)

The title of the post comes from a song with the same title from Wicked.

Snow, snow, snow, snow, SNOW!!!

2008-02-05T17:09:00.000-08:00

Irving Berlin and I are putting our heads together, and still no go. We had snow--lots of it--every night for about 2 1/2 weeks. Serious I-can't-see-more-than-a-foot-in-front-of-me snow. It reminded me of going "light speed" on Star Tours. Church was cancelled, but school? Not even a 30 minute delay. I have been jealous of my Oregon, Idaho, etc. friends who have had the luxury of sleeping in and such. Must be nice.

Or it would be nice to live in S. Carolina like Kristen. 73 degrees. Remind me why I live in NV. It's cold, dry, tacky. Well, I do like Tahoe's proximity. I like being close to family. I like the "small town" feel of the area. Okay, so there are good points.

Forbidden Broadway was a lot of fun. The lady who did the Carol Channing impression said, "You laugh really loud sweetie!" to me. It was fantastic. Our entire two rows cracked up at that. Particularly since I'd told them all at dinner about my dad advising me to not laugh so loudly that other people had a hard time hearing the show. Hysterical!

It looks like I will be working with Nevada Shakespeare Company again this summer, with the Young Shakespeare program they do in conjunction with LTSF. Michelle Calhoun-Fitts is directing it and the show is . . . A Midsummer Night's Dream. FUN!!

So the title of the song is the same as this post. The song is used in wonderful White Christmas.

What has happened to the theatre?

2008-01-20T23:29:00.000-08:00

This week has been quite busy! How do I get so overcommitted so quickly? Sigh.

I'm so excited. I went to Barnes and Noble today, which requires a trip to Reno. I like it because it's the biggest bookstore in the area. I'm all about multi-levels when it comes to books. I wish it was like The Tattered Cover in Denver (a beautiful four story glorious bookstore--four stories!), but I can live with it. I bought a couple of books and a DVD. One of the books made me very happy. It was a copy of Anna Karenina(which I've never read before). It came with a copy of the movie with Vivien Leigh (whom I adore). And for the low price of $5.98. I'm all about a good deal!

I'm also slightly disappointed. I did not get a callback for the initial LTSF callback. I was okay with this, because I got an e-mail saying I was still under consideration and they'd call me if they needed to see me. However, all of my friends seemed to have gotten callbacks--Chris, Dana, Joe, Dan, Cameron, Michelle . . . :( I wish I could have even been considered for this first round. I was only able to audition for the Artistic Director, and the director of A Midsummer Night's Dream was at the callbacks. I don't know. I felt pretty good about the initial audition. I am not as disappointed as I would be if it were something around here in the community theatre realm, but it's kind of embarrassing for me. Perhaps it shouldn't be. It's just hard to know that the odds of my getting into Midsummer are now so very slim, and the chances of my getting in have decreased considerably. I heard that they loved Joe, which is no surprise. It's also weird knowing that many of my friends may not be able to do the shows, even if they make it, because of the work with the touring companies of the kids programs. I just really don't think I stand a chance.

I also went to a reading for The Tempest tonight for Nevada Shakespeare/Gold Hill tonight. They're doing it this summer. I, in no way, am not interested in playing Miranda. Ariel didn't seem that appealing. The part of Sebastian is to be changed to a female called Stefani, and that seemed somewhat interesting. I also was enjoying it when I read for the drunk Stephano in the scene where he meets Caliban. However, when Dana and I were leaving we talked all the way home. She revealed that many of the parts were pre-cast. And they said the reading was the audition--only after I asked when that stuff was going to happen. And Stephano was my favorite thing I read and that part is pretty much pre-cast. Why? Why didn't they tell us if some of the parts were pre-cast (and Dan and Michael told us what parts they're playing this summer)? I don't know. I just left disheartened.

Theatre sucks. It truly does.

The title comes from the song "Choreography" which was used in White Christmas.

Juliet and her Romeo

2008-01-10T16:20:00.000-08:00

Okay, I do apologize for my absence. The last month I was fearing I may die before I finished all I needed to do. It was not a pleasant thought. After school was out I was able to have fun and relax a bit. My sister Jessica, the nieces, and the brother-in-law all came out. The girls made me laugh. Leigha was jealous every moment that I was not spending sole time with her (including telling me that adults were boring and I should play with her instead of talking to everyone). Bri is a hyper runner whose favorite phrase varied between, "Nope, not today!" or "Nope, not tonight!" It made me laugh.

I saw plenty of films too. Wonderful films. I loved it--Enchanted, National Treasure 2, Across the Universe, The Great Debaters, P.S. I Love You, Charlie Wilson's War, The Water Horse. Did I mention I love movies? I don't know that it can be said enough. My aunt and uncle gave their daughter and I tickets to the new movie theater in Carson so we can see Sweeney Todd (which opens tomorrow here). HUZZAH for good movies!

My parents and I went to Anaheim to visit Janina. We had fun. Ate at The House of Blues. Spent not one, but two days at DCA (Disneyland was having blackout days so Nina couldn't get us in). We had fun though; even on Friday when the rain was pouring insanely all day in CA. We did come home at the height of crazy snowing on Saturday.

School has started again--both grad and CHS. So far so good. I'm having fun knowing that the semester ended before Christmas and that I do not have such a grading burden.

I auditioned for Romeo and Juliet with PPI on Monday night. Chris is directing. I was cast as Benvolio!--Woo! I'm so excited for this show. A) Tiny cast (12 people). B) I know and love 8 of the 14; Leoney, Sarah, Nicole, Warren, Corey, Dana, Dan, Jody, Jeff. Go talent and comaraderie! It's like all three of my theatre venues in NV are coming together (WNCC, Gold Hill, Love's Labour's Lost)--twill be a blast if I'm asked. I cannot wait for the readthrough!

The title comes from the song "Brush Up Your Shakespeare" from Kiss Me Kate.

And then I'd sit and think some more!

2007-11-26T20:12:00.000-08:00

1.Does anyone know your password to your MySpace besides yourself?:
My mom. She gets on it now and then to see pictures of the nieces.

2. What was the last thing you ordered at McDonalds?:
A coke and fries like a year ago. I had the weirdest craving!

3. Are you an emotional person?
Some would say yes. Some would say, "Nope. She's a drama queen!"

4. Do you like your middle name?
I guess. It's very old-fashioned. I like the sound of it with my first name.

5. Do you believe in love at first sight?:
No way!

6. Does the person you like know that you like them?:
I have no real crush right now. For some reason, Josh Groban has been missing my not-so-subtle declarations . . .

7. What was the last thing you did?:
Changed clothes

8. Ever been in love?:
Yes

9. Who was the last person you ate with?:
My parents, Karl, and Karl's son Nick

10. What song are you listening to now?
Whatever's in my head at the moment. "Jingle Bell Rock," but probably because I'm singing it for Sweet Sounds next week.

11. How's the weather right now?:
Getting cold and overcast.

12. Last person who called you?:
Caitlin to see if she could bring me the soup she made for me to feel better with!

13. Last lie you told?
"I want to play Romeo! It's my dream role. I can't wait to play that whiny guy!" (Chris and I were talking about his R&J auditions in January and how I'm probably going to audition early with Dana).

14. Last song you sang?
"Silent Night"--Harmony, of course.

15. Do you love anyone?:
Many, many people!

16. Lost a friendship over something stupid?:
Probably.

17. Last thing you drank?:
Dr. Pepper

18. Last thing you ate?:
The grilled steak quesadilla from Q-Doba

19. Where do you wish you were?
London

20. Faked being sick to miss school?:
No

21. What time did you wake up today?:
5 a.m.

22. Last person you talked to?:
Chris

23. Last person that made you laugh?:
Dad

24. What are you wearing right now?
socks, underwear, slippers, and my wonderful robe.

26. What is the first thing you notice about the opposite sex?
hair

27. Where are you right now?:
couch of my apartment

28. What day and date is it?
Monday, November 26

31. What else are you doing today?
Grading!

32. Are you watching TV?:
Yeah.

33. Are you mature or immature?:
Usually mature I hope.

34. Are you closer to your mom or dad?
Mom

36. What school do you go to?:
NNU grad program, WNC for tap, CHS for teaching

37. What's the most annoying thing people say to you?:
"Ms. Brown, I need a printout of my grade today." (Of course, this always happens DURING class without warning!).

38. Do you like music?:
Oh yes indeedy!

39. Do you want to get married?:
Some days. Other days no.

41. Where did you go on vacation last summer?:
Ashland.

42. Would you bungee jump?:
Not anytime soon.

43. Do you like rollercoasters?
Oh yeah!

44. Is there anything you wish for every summer?:
fun.

45. Do you use chopsticks?:
Not well.

46. What's your favorite meal of the day?:
Depends on what I'm in the mood for. Probably dinner because it's usually the least rushed.

47. Thinking of someone right now?:
Yeah

48. Concerned about life right now?:
Never having enough time and being stuck in a rut.

49 Have you ever tripped going up the stairs?:
I've even tripped on walls!

50. What are you looking forward to this spring?
Learning if I got into LTSF!

The title is probably pretty familiar. It's from "If I Only Had a Brain" from The Wizard of Oz.

When the authors make me say words that make me wittier

2007-11-12T15:16:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I've been keeping something under wraps. Something BIG for me, small in the scheme of things I am certain. However I feel like it was a good step for me and I'm glad I did it no matter the outcome. It was something that freaked me out, but the closer I got to it, the calmer I became. This made me feel good. So what did I do?

I auditioned for my first professional company. I tried out for the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival. I've never been overly impressed with what I've seen there. I learned this summer that this coming summer could be quite different (though I was not privy to any reason for that. I interpreted correctly--HUZZAH!). There is a new Artistic Director from Oregon.

We each had 8 minutes for the audition (which is quite generous) by appointment only. In order to audition, you had to do a Shakesperean monologue in verse, a contrasting contemporary monologue, and 16 bars of singing. So I did a monologue from Love's Labour's Lost. I did a portion of the monologue "Twirler" from the play Talking With. I used that as my Forensics piece my junior year of high school (It took me to the state competition in Colorado, so no complaints! I remembered a surprising amount of it too!). I sang the intro and first verse of "Honey Bun" from South Pacific.

How did it go? Pretty well, I felt. I did not embarrass myself (to my knowledge) which was nice. After I performed the three things, she had me do a portion of "Twirler" again, but "As a Gothic teenager". She also had me sing the song bigger. I felt pretty comfortable actually which was nice. I had fun too! What a concept!!! I am expecting absolutely nothing in this scenario. Saturday was the day of local auditions. She's flying all over the country for more auditions as well. I just figured it would be a good thing to try. I won't know anything until March. They're not even planning on having callbacks of any sort as far as I've been told. So let's hope I did well! They're doing Richard III and A Midsummer Night's Dream. They're also doing an original musical based on The Hunchback of Notre Dame. I'm guessing that this will be my best bet for getting in. I feel like I can "sell" my singing more than my acting. Another reason is because they're casting only non-union performers in that one! Crazy stuff.

The title comes from a song called "It's Me" from Me and Juliet. Good lyrics and music Mr. Richard Rogers and Mr. Oscar Hammerstein II.

Round one . . .

2007-10-28T11:41:00.000-07:00

Okay so life has been absolutely crazy this month. Insane. I think I've blinked twice in the course of the month. It's been that busy and demanding. I have:

~Gone to Anaheim/Disneyland
~Finished the first quarter of grading
~Finished another Grad class (with another A--yay!)
~Graded, graded, graded, graded
~Seen Across the Universe, The Nightmare Before Christmas (in 3D), and The Jane Austen Book Club
~Gone to Apple Hill
~Planned a trip to Nampa for next weekend
~Approved multiple Letters of Intent for the Senior Project
~Been asked to be in a couple of shows
~Been offered a job to teach Voice Lessons to kids at the college in Carson City
~Taught Saturday Night School at church
~Written a paper and created a lesson for the week for grad school
~Continued singing in choir and tapping
~Gone to more meetings than I can count
~Memorized most of the passages in Hamlet that deal with Ophelia's madness for performances tonight and Tuesday night
~Sold, ordered, recieved, and delivered my first Mary Kay order
~Joined my first book club and went to the first meeting
~Watched Legally Blonde the musical (And it made me smile and laugh a lot!)

There are other things as well, but it's obviously been filled. Hence my absence. Time to grade again.

The title comes from the song "I Can Hear the Bells" from Hairspray.

First ever technical support

2007-10-04T17:56:00.001-07:00

I Wish I Could Go Back to College

2007-09-26T16:23:00.000-07:00

So I am having some weird experiences of late.
1) I got asked for a hallpass the other day in school.
2) I am getting to help plan a theatrical season. It's fun.
3) I've been getting to work between 6:15-6:30 in the morning more often than not.
4) I seem to be getting in touch with all of my friends from different aspects of my life in the area of late. And those friends are beginning to merge . . .
5) I seem to have students liking me again and I see them everywhere.

All interesting, and (with the exception of early morning rising) good. Crazy crazy.

I'm also taking some big trips here soon. I am headed to Anaheim in a couple of weeks to hang out with Nina and Kelsey. I also get to see Jayme from college (I wrote about her son last month)! Yay!!!!!!!!!

I also bought my ticket for the NNU Homecoming. I am SOOOOOOOO stoked! I can't wait to see my college friends again. It's weird that it's been 5 years, I can say that for sure! At any rate, I'm excited to see everyone who will show up. It will be weird to be back walking around on campus. I used to know it so well. The last time I "drove around" it was last year. There were a lot of changes. The saddest change was the lack of Morrison in favor of another parking lot. :( I loved Morrison! Many good memories that I can no longer wander around the halls and recall.

The title of the post comes from the same song from Avenue Q. I don't know that I'd want to go through all of my college life again, but certain elements I do miss. Mostly my close friends who were available (literally) every hour of any day of the week.

Times have changed

2007-09-06T20:22:00.000-07:00

Why am I so surprised at the beginning of the school year how quickly it gets going? I feel like I've been there a month (though I finally got my key to the building today). I have meetings almost every day after school already. I am behind on my grading. How? How is't possible?

A bonus today. I received in the mail something I ordered from amazon.com. "What is it?" you may be asking yourself. Allow me to enlightent you about the process behind ordering what I feel may indeed be a wonderful addition to my film collection. While I was in Much Ado, I continued with my tradition of doing show research. Some of this time was spent on youtube.com. I wanted to see other interpretations and such. I came across clips from a modernized BBC production. It was fun to watch. Benedick and Beatrice are rival news anchors. I hunted online until, by George, I found it! It's in a set of DVDs called Shakespeare Retold. There's a modern version of Much Ado, A Midsummer Night's Dream, Taming of the Shrew, and Macbeth. I ordered it. I just finished watching the Much Ado one and it was what I predicted, fun! I liked how much of the dialogue from the play was left in. I liked the incorporation of Sonnet 116. I definitely liked how Hero was a meatier character and was willing to fight for herself (granted, that's not Shakespeare, but it has the Lynette Stamp of Approval anyway). We shall see how the other ones fare, but it's off to a good start. Yay!

I made a powerpoint today to show my American Lit classes starting tomorrow. It was to introduce the students to the Puritans. I forgot how fascinating they can be. The fact that England went over 100 years without the monarchy ruling? The fact that the Separatists founded Harvard University? Their reasonings against drama, erotic poetry and music (even IN church!). It really is quite riveting. I may have gotten carried away, but there it is. A good powerpoint of which I'm proud. I'm even excited to start it tomorrow.

The title of the post comes from the song "Anything Goes" from the fun Cole Porter extravaganza Anything Goes. Seriously, the show includes great classics like "It's De-Lovely," "I Get a Kick Out of You," "All Through the Night," and of course the classic title song. Anyway, the reference is to how life is in fast forward mode since school began! Oi!

Learn Everything!

2007-08-29T22:18:00.000-07:00

Dana as Hero just before the wedding.

Beatrice for Act II.

Act I Beatrice. Mark, the guy who took the photo, said, "Okay, give me a look for Beatrice. She's sweet, right?" to which I answered, "No! She's sassy!"

Alex as Ursula, Eric as Don John, and and Joe as Benedick.

Dan as Leonato, Duffy as Dogberry, and Alex again.

Brian ready to revel it up as Don Pedro!

Emma as Verges.

Josh as Claudio.

All the pictures were taken during intermission, so I apolgize about the "relaxed" look of them. We set the show in the 1860s (Brian even rode his horse onto the stage for his entrance!).

So I am balancing school, teaching, and life in general. We'll see how this goes. I am nervous to tell you the truth, but I think once I get the hang of it it'll be fine.

School started on Monday. So far so good. I'm enjoying the fact that everyday there is a variety of classes I teach. We have "A" days and "B" days at CHS, and I'm lucky enough to not teach the same classes on the same days. I prefer that myself, because I like a bit of variety and keeping things different. I had a bit of trouble my first two days with some of the classes when it came to pacing. 103 minutes for each class period is a bit ridiculous. Today (my "second" day) went much smoother with no extra time left in my classes. Hopefully I'll be able to keep THIS up!

Our play ended on Saturday. I'm sad. I know I'm going to really miss the cast; it was a great group of people. I'm going to try and stay in touch with people, but that is always skechy. Thespians! If only they could be normal people! :)

The pictures are from

My title comes from the musical of Anne of Green Gables. The song is called "Open a Window". I kind of feel like I'm in learning overload, so it seemed appropriate.

Why I love my church so much!

2007-08-20T22:34:00.001-07:00

Our Saturday night pastor is hilarious! He finds the most random things that lead into the night's teaching.

Anyway, I've had to miss the last two Saturdays due to the play and we have a different pastor on Sundays. However, they follow the same passages. Recently it's been on Singles. This is hilarious!

God on high hear my prayer

2007-08-20T18:56:00.001-07:00

Everybody who prays PLEASE pray for this little guy.

My college friends Jayme and Keegan had a little boy last summer. As a boy, Keegan had a form of cancer that dealt with his eyes. Joncee inherited the same cancer and they were able to catch it early (13 days after he was born). The chemo seemed to be working for awhile but I guess it came back. Recently Jayme and Keegan had to make the decision to have the "bad eye" removed rather than have more treatment done. Apparently there was leukemia found. He's been given a 40-50% chance of survival. He is Jayme and Keegan's only child so far and I know this must be so hard on them.

Keep praying for the Lenker family. They really could use as much support as possible.

2007-08-15T15:04:00.000-07:00

Create your own Friend Quiz here

A little bit of this; a little bit of that

2007-08-05T18:08:00.000-07:00

Ah, the power of words. They have such an immense strength. It's one of the few things that has the power to change a life. Wow!

Where has my recent awe come from? Good question. I have obviously recently been hit by the re-realization of how amazing words are. And how much I love them. Last night words brought up the past to my great amusement.

I began journaling in 7th grade. See, I wanted nothing more to be selected for the Journalism class when I hit junior high. My 6th grade teacher did not recommend me for the honor, so there was no way I could possibly get in. I decided to do two things about my frustration. 1) I would start a journal because it would last longer than any newspaper (I even wrote that in my first entry--that was a direct quote from my 12 year old self). 2) Every time the newspaper would come out, I would hunt for all the editorial mistakes to prove to myself I COULD be on the staff, and possibly do a better job of it than those who were on the staff. These two things combined may or may not have contributed to the fact that in 8th grade, I was selected for the Journalism class. Woo-hoo for moi!

So last night I was trying to remember something from my 16 year old self. I looked up my journals from the past years. Let me tell you, I was so very amused. My 8th grade crushes were hilarious. I am embarrassed to admit that I would write the word "love" with a heart instead of an o anytime I wrote about my crushes. I commented on the social shallowness of people when I was in college (asking about how a person is doing in passing does not truly require caring). The arguments I would have with my folks as an 8th grader ("My mom is an alien hypocrite!!!!!" I have no idea where that one came from.).

I browsed through them for about an hour. It was so very entertaining! Things that were brought up within the journals ranged from a conversation over lunch in France which dealt with chest hair (Alysha always made the topics of discussion more interesting) to my Scotish pen pal from elementary school named Fiona to Katie's Drooling Buddies (our dog used to drool quite a bit on my friends Joey, Troy, Amanda, Rita, and Nicole). I was completely entertained. I must admit that I may never have the most fascinating life, but it's nice to know that I can look back and giggle.

The title of this post comes from the song "Anatevka" from Fiddler on the Roof.

Defying Gravity - Eden Espinosa and Megan Hilty in LA

2007-08-01T15:44:00.001-07:00

Eden and Megan performing "Defying Gravity".

One Short Day in the Emerald City

2007-08-01T14:47:00.000-07:00

So I got back yesterday from a trip to Anaheim. I visited Janina and our cousin Kelsey. However, I was not the only guest. My cousin Halley and her friend/roommate Vicky, Jessica, Jason, Leigha and Briana were there. Oi! I went on Friday and came back last night (and had to dash off to rehearsal asap).

Twas a good trip. I got the brilliant idea of attempting to see Wicked on Saturday using the Wicked Lottery. See about 2 1/2 hours to 2 hours prior to a performance you can go to the ticket booth and put your name on a slip and mark whether you want 1 or 2 tickets. After that you put the slip into a container. 2 hours before the show they draw about 15-20 names. If your name is drawn, you get an "I won the Wicked lottery!" button, and you pay $25 for a front row seat ticket. So I thought it would be fun to try for. Janina was the only one who wanted to go with me. We got there about 2 minutes before the drawing and I won!!!!!!! Janina and I got to see the phenomenal show of Wicked with Eden Espinosa and Megan Hilty (I saw her in Seattle). We also saw people who played significant roles in Gilmore Girls, and Sabrina the Teenage Witch. Oh, and Carol Kane who played Miracle Max's wife in The Princess Bride. Huzzah!

The next day I got went to DCA with Nina, Kelsey, Jess, Jason, Leigha and Briana. We had a good time (and got free Mickey ears!). It was crazy. Good times. On Monday we did something, but it's a surprise that cannot yet reveal. Eventually I will, but not yet.

And so, I have about a week before we open Much Ado About Nothing. It's coming really well. I love this cast. It's a good group of people and we get along really well! I am having a lot of fun with it.

The title of the post comes from a song with the same title from Wicked.

I can hear the bells . . .

2007-07-20T21:55:00.000-07:00

Tonight has been a pretty good. I saw Hairspray in the theater. I am now drinking chai, eating a grilled roast beef and cheese sandwich on sourdough with garlic salt, watching Judy Garland, Gene Kelly, and George Murphy in For Me and My Gal. I'll be getting my final installment of Harry Potter tomorrow from Amazon.com. Yeah, life is good.

Just so you know, please don't expect another post from me until the book is finished. Not that I'm completely regular about blogging, but just in case any of my "devoted fans" will miss me I wanted to let you know what was up.

The title comes from the song of the same title from Hairspray. See it, it was a lot of fun! It had me dancing in my seat the whole time.

A Little Fall of Rain

2007-07-09T11:24:00.000-07:00

That's it. All we need is one tiny drop of rain. I am soooooo tired of the fires. Tahoe, Markleeville, Reno, Hills up to Virginia City. Ugh. It also is upsetting that some of my friends' homes were completely burned to the ground in the Tahoe fire. I feel like I should have been able to help prevent it, but I can think of nothing. Perhaps I should perform a few thousand rain dances to prevent the fires for the rest of the summer. I'm sure it would also help with the heat . . .

Leigha's here for a week and has been here a week. It's so funny to have her around. She is a queen at making goofy faces, telling funny stories, dancing around and singing. When she spent the night with me last week one of the things we did was to watch The Sound of Music which she'd never seen before. She liked it a lot, but there seemed to be something she didn' t understand. As she watched, she kept saying "Oh, look at all the Jews!" Apparently she and my mom started reading about Anne Frank the night before. I laughed.

Janina's coming home this week for a few days. Yay!!!!!!!!! It's sad that I don't get to hang out with her whenever I'd like (not that I was always able to, but it's harder when she's in Anaheim).

I'm excited about seeing Harry Potter on Wednesday. It's Nicole's birthday so we're all going out to eat and then to see it. It's my least favorite of the books in some ways (Harry's stupid angst and whining gets really old quickly). However it has some fantastic events! What am I looking forward to more? The book coming out!!!!! It is sad that it'll be the last of the books. And I do believe Harry is going to die. I think he has to. I do believe he's one of the horcruxes.

Anyway, I should get back to memorizing lines. It needs to be complete by tomorrow night! EEK!!!!!!!! I've put off too much of it this week by rereading all of the Harry Potter books. Bad Lynette!

The title of the post comes from the song with the same title. It's from Les Miserables. I think this may be one of my favorite parts in the whole show.

When I'm sittin' bidin' my time

2007-06-28T14:39:00.000-07:00

1. Were you named after anyone? Yup. Her name was Lynnette Cherry. She was a friend of my mom's from college who died. Weirdly enough, my name was supposed to be spelled the same way, but my parents had been going back and forth on one n or two, and my dad forgot when he was getting my birth certificate done!

2. When was the last time you cried? Recently, this last weekend. I am soooooooooo frustrated with my sensative skin!!!!!!! CHAPSTICK SHOULD NOT GIVE PEOPLE RASHES THAT LAST FOR MORE THAN A WEEK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It itches like mad and hurts like crazy (but not as bad as this last weekend!).

3. Do you like your handwriting? Yeah, it's fun. I often get compliments on it.

4. What is your favorite lunch meat? Roast beef.

5. Do you have kids? Nada. Thank God! I don't want any right now, if ever.

6. If you were another person, would you be friends with you? I certainly hope I would be. It depends on the person.

7. Do you use sarcasm? Absolutely. I'm all for it!!!

8. Do you still have your tonsils? Yup.

9. Would you bungee jump? No way Jose!

10. What is your favorite cereal? Frosted mini-wheats

11. Do you untie your shoes when you take them off? Not if I can help it!

12. Do you think you are strong? Yeah, yeah . . . I can hear you laughing from here!

13. What is your favorite ice cream? New York Super Fudge Chunk.

14. What is the first thing you notice about people? Eyes and hair

15. Red or Pink? Pink.

16. What is the least favorite thing about yourself? That I wasn't a scaredy cat!

17. Who do you miss the most? Too many to mention.

18. What color pants and shoes are you wearing? Black capris and my bare feet with the magenta toenail polish from Kristen's wedding!

19. What was the last thing you ate? Whoopie-pie from Alicia's Bakery from yesterday at the Farmer's Market. Mmmmm . . . I love visiting her booth every Wednesday. And yesterday she had her Raspberry Mint Punch again; divine!

20. What are you listening to right now? My blinds hitting the window because of the wind.

21. If you where a crayon, what color would you be? Purple, I hope.

22. What are your favorite smells? Lilacs and Roses

23. Who was the last person you talked to on the phone? Kristen (now Schnorbus!)

24. Do you like the person who sent this to you? Yes.

25. Favorite sports to watch? Gymnastics, swimming sports, Figure Skating, and Speed Skating (like the Olympics much?)

26. Hair color? Fl.aming Red. I heard a new description of it a couple of weeks ago that was new to me, "Your hair is like a SPOTLIGHT!"

27. Eye color? Green

28. Do you wear contacts? Yes, but at the moment I'm wearing my glasses.

29. Favorite food? Popcorn.

30. Scary movies or happy endings? Depends on my mood. I like the ones where they learn something that they can grow from.

31. Last movie you watched? Easter Parade. Gotta love Judy and Fred together!

32. What color shirt are your wearing? Cream. I love this blouse! It looks like something a 1930's movie star would wear with cape sleeves and everything!

33. Summer or winter? Spring.

34. Hugs or kisses? Chocolate or physical?

35. Favorite dessert? A good cheesecake

36. What books are you reading right now? Tis, Harry Potter Series, Salem Falls, The Waves, and Persuasion

37. What is on your mousepad? My finger. Loving the laptops!

38. What did you watch on TV last night? Nothing, I was at rehearsal and then I hung out with Joe and Dana for about three hours.

39. Favorite sound? Josh Groban singing, rain, an overture to a show, etc.

40. Rolling Stones or Beatles? Definitely the Beatles!

41. Where is the farthest you have been from home? Firenze, or for the folks at home, Florence. Ooh, see The Light on the Piazza if you can!!!!!!!!!! It takes place there and is SOOOOOOOO BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!!!!

42. Do you have a special talent? Eh. Not really.

43. Where were you born? Bishop, CA
____________________________________________________________________

Now for my post. Yes I'm Beatrice--HUZZAH!!!!!!! I'm being extremely lazy this summer.

Yes I have a rash all around my mouth from Chapstick. It's from camping last week with Leoney, Caitlin, Marcus, James, Maria, and a guy who I'd never met but is friends with Caitlin, Josh (prefers to be called Ooah). We camped in Markleeville. Caitlin, Marcus and I took a long hike on Friday. We went on a trail that was supposed to lead us to a lake. We climbed a whole mountain and guess what? THE LAKE WAS NOT THERE AND THE TRAIL DISAPPEARED!!! We weren't too thrilled. I left on Friday so I could be at my tap rehearsal for the recital on Saturday. Good thing too. The rest had to evacuate on Saturday morning because of the fires.

Yup, it's summer, and the fires are back. The worst has been in Tahoe, and supposedly it's the 4th worst fire the U.S. has ever seen (and it's not over yet!). I know families who have lost their homes. My friend Stephanie's family literally were able to save the clothes on their backs and their pets! Not a good situation at all!

Anyway, not much else to report now. Sorry my life is that slow! I'm okay with it right now though.

The title of the post comes from a song called "Bidin' My Time" from Gershwin's Girl Crazy.

This is the moment!

2007-06-14T13:49:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I've not wanted to blog until I knew "officially" about some things, but I can't wait. I'm 100% certain about one of them, and about 95% certain of the other. So here we go.

I am no longer a teacher at Opportunity High School. I feel mixed about it. I will miss so many things, but there are other things that I just cannot believe I "put up with" for two years. I began to feel very cynical and was becoming burnt out very quickly there. I am not saying that teaching is the profession I will have for the next 30+ years, but if it is I want it to be something I'll enjoy. So I put in for a transfer to Carson High School. I got one of the English positions there! Not only that, but Cheryl (the head of the department) really gave me some choice classes. I'll be teaching two classes of English III, one class of Proficiency English, and two classes of AP American Literature (which will be seniors). HUZZAH!!!!!!!!!!! I've already got some of the curriculum and am getting ready for August. I am sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo excited. I'll get to work with a staff of other English teachers (fancy that)! I'll be teaching five classes, but only have 3 preps! I'll be working with students who are more motivated, and perhaps not so paranoid. This is a very good thing!

Second, I had my callback for Much Ado About Nothing last night. I was expecting it to be a typical callback. I figured I was still vying for the role of either Beatrice or Hero. Apparently not. I was the only one to read for Beatrice, and she was the only part I read! I still need to be officially told, but I kinda think it's in the bag. This is a part I've wanted since my freshman year of high school when I first saw the Kenneth Branaugh version at our school's one and only celebration of Shakespeare's Birthday (it was a fantastic day and I was sorry that LJHS never did it again). I loved everything, the music, the location, the costumes, the acting, the plot; all of it. Emma Thompson--oh to play a part that she has played. I ask for little else. She is one of my favorite (if not utter favorite) actresses.

After the callback, I went up to get a drink with the other three who look as though they'll be playing Benedick, Claudio, and Hero. Joe (he's from England!), Josh (whom I know and we've had an interesting relationship, though it seems to be on the mend), and Dana (a really interesting woman). If last night is any indication, I'm totally excited about working with these people. Michelle (who was Kate when I did Taming of the Shrew) is assistant director, and Cameron of the Nevada Shakespeare Company (the only professional theatre company in Northern Nevada) is directing. Yes indeedy, I believe it will be great. I'm hoping so! At any rate, I had a ball talking to Joe, Josh, and Dana about theatre. Discussing poorly done and greatly done Shakespeare. Having a heated debate about the great American and British playwrites. Discussing shows we've done. Seeing how professional theatre is different in England than it is here. It was great. It was also very refreshing to get to know some new people. I forgot how fun that can be!

The song title is the same as the title of the post. The song is from Jekyll and Hyde by Frank Wildhorn. Fabulous music!

Love Changes Everything

2007-05-30T03:30:00.001-07:00

I love this song and Michael Ball!!!!!!!!! It's from Aspects of Love.

2007-05-18T23:15:00.001-07:00

Like me as I'm about to be sent to prison? I'm in the purple--it's my favorite costume in the show!

A Dress has always been my strongest suit!

2007-05-12T15:47:00.000-07:00

Can you find me? My dad couldn't! It's Thoroughly Modern Millie folks, and I play Gloria! I'm the one on the far left with the black wig!

The title comes from the song of the same title from Aida (Elton John's, not Puccini's). It's sung by the Princess. Sherie Rene Scott played her originally, as well as Kathy in The Last Five Years. She will soon be seen as Ursula in The Little Mermaid on Broadway. Listen to any of these CDs, for she will blow you away!

Jenny made her mind up when she was three

2007-04-26T20:14:00.000-07:00

It's my birthday! I was born three years ago when this redhead became intrigued in a blog by her friend Devon was writing. Lynette (my author) decided to "give it a go" and thus was I born.

She has made me amusing. Boring. Depressing. Joyful. Excited. Sad. Mad. And she has allowed me to pretty much replace her regular journals (for she had more than one). Not bad for a three year old.

I look to the future. I see shows, grad school, teaching, friends, frustrations . . . all within the next year. As Bette Davis claimed in All About Eve, "Fasten your seatbelts; it's going to be a bumpy night."

Oh, and Lynette also wanted me to throw a congratulations to her cousin Shane and his wife Toni. As of today, they are parents of Dannon Kedrick Destiny Smith. A boy has really got to live up to a name like that!!!

The title comes from a song called "The Saga of Jenny" which Julie Andrews sang in the film Star! The song is older than that, but poor Lynette is not near her resource which would tell her the title of the show (though it's from the first half of the 20th Century) it was originally from. She used it because the word "three" is used in reference to an age.

Dear old Shiz . . .

2007-04-21T20:07:00.000-07:00

Yayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!!! I got accepted into the grad program I wanted and I begin this summer!!!!!! Actually, seeing as it's an online one through NNU (Masters of Reading Endorsement), I was not overly worried, but still.

It's nice that my life seems to have a purpose/goal again. I've missed that.

And I got an invitation to Kara Lyon's wedding. I'm hoping to go, but it's the day after Kristen's (which I'm in) and two days before I have to give the first of two day's worth of finals. :( Why does everyone get married the FIRST weekend in June? Well, I'm looking regardless!!!

I have a new cell phone. And though you may laugh, the ringtone is my happy song: "I Think I Love You" as sung by David Cassidy and the cast of the Partridge Family. I understand that it is completely absurd, but it's one of those songs that no matter how I feel, I feel happier after listening to it. So I will proudly let that retro ringtone play for all to hear!

The title of this post comes from the alma mater song from Wicked. It seemed appropriate.

I got to Kansas City . . .

2007-04-06T22:29:00.000-07:00

Okay, technically I'll be there tomorrow. Not a problem. The title just states what I will be doing.

Yes, tomorrow my folks and I are driving to Sacramento to catch a Frontier airplane to Denver. From Denver, we will head to Kansas City. We will be seeing my sister and her family. We will also be seeing my best friend from La Junta High School, Kinna! She works with elephants at the Wichita Zoo, so we'll be visiting there! I'm a tad on the stoked side.

So, that's really all. The title comes from "Kansas City" from Oklahoma.

Why does this always happen, I should be outside playing

2007-03-24T12:55:00.000-07:00

So I'm stressed again. I know, big news, so what Lynette? It's been a particularly bad couple of weeks. Last week was the end of a grading period for us. We change classes literally each quarter, and we don't get a break between 3rd and 4th quarter. So in addition to getting the finals prepared, final grades tallied, and getting the the grades in (without a minimum day, I might add), we also have to be prepped for new classes the Monday following. Icky yes?

Yes. It is. Particularly when the week had this handicap in the mix. I was the only teacher who was in attendance each day for the full time. Dave's wife had their sixth baby (finally a boy!) on Monday, so he took the whole week off. Since their girls are homeschooled, this was a very wise decision. Sue's mom had a stroke and Sue's sister is recovering from pneumonia as well. She was either gone or left extremely early every day this week. And since there are three teachers at our school, guess who was left with this? Dealing with the kids panicking about the fact that they have about one more week of free dress before we begin the uniforms. Scheduling the differences of classes since next week is proficiencies. Getting all the kids entered for the MAP tests in about a month (it had to be in by Monday). When you consider the fact that I also have had my SIOP class all day on Saturdays the last two weeks (and my last one is next week, this week we had a break), I imagine it would be obvious that I'm exhausted. Not sleeping well for the last two weeks hasn't helped, either.

But wait, there's more!

I've had to get the ball rolling for Kristen's wedding shower in a couple of weeks, since I'm the only local bridesmaid. And I'm taking Spanish, choir, tap, and Millie. Oh, and I've had to get the dress, I need a wig for Millie, and and and . . . I need a month long vacation. Spring Break is in two weeks. And I'm taking this Friday as a mental health/eye examination day.

How does all of this happen? I really couldn't say.

As a result, I've been missing a lot of the fantastic weather we've been having of late. It's supposed to get colder for a week or so. It's been toying with us lately. I think it was Wednesday when we had some snow in the morning, and it was back up to 65 in the afternoon. Sigh.

Well, sorry for this whiner of a post. I need to get it off my chest. I've had my crying breakdowns, and I know this will help too. The title comes from "Book Report" from You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown. I like that Charlie Brown is a procrastinator, claiming he works best under pressure. I feel like I can identify with that. At least all my grad school stuff is in right now!

Ah sweet mystery of life at last I've found thee!

2007-03-09T20:41:00.000-08:00

My shoulders hurt. No, scratch that. My upper back hurts. For the second time in two weeks. Last week my thighs also hurt. Why is this you ask? Oh, merely the evilness that is EXERCISE!!!!!!!!!

I admit it, I'm not much in favor of it. I'd rather read. Or nap. Or watch a movie. Or chat with a good friend. Or go to the library. Or, or, or . . .

I don't quite know why this is. I feel good when I exercise. I tend to be pretty energetic afterwards. I like the fact that I'm not just letting life happen to my body, but I am taking control over it--well, I like the idea of that at any rate. I just have a hard time with the motivation. Whether I do it by myself, with a friend, whatever! It's pathetic I know.

I think I may have found something that can have a stronger pull for my appeal. The New York City Ballet Workout Volume I. I have always loved dance (a huge reason for me to enjoy doing musicals; to improve this!). This workout DVD is actually many of the workout routines that the NYC ballet company does daily! So that is a really cool thing in my eyes. Another reason I think I can like it is it seems to be pretty ballet based. I mean, I'm doing plies, degages, relleves (sp?), first-fifth positions. That helps. And I can do it when I want, and NO ONE IS WATCHING ME!!!!!!! Major bonus!

I just may by the 2nd volume to add some spice to what I do. I hope to keep it up, but I'll say it's stronger than my last few attempts at a workout routine!

The lyrics come from a song used in Millie called "I'm Falling in Love With Someone". Or in this case, a something!

But she won't discover that it's him till chapter three!

2007-02-17T18:05:00.000-08:00

Okay, the classic BIRTHDAY post!!!!!!!! Yay! This year, I've decided my list will include books throughout the years--I'm shooting for some from those actual years, but I may need to fudge some. However, from years 5 and up is pretty darned accurate.

1) Peter Rabbit
2) Christian Mother Goose
3) Green Eggs and Ham
4) The Berenstein Bears and Too Much TV
5) Wet Grass (one story I remember reading for myself in Kindergarten)
6) The Baby-sitters Club--Claudia and the Phantom Phone Caller (my first chapter book!)
7) The Story of Helen Keller
8) Ramona Forever
9) Anne of Green Gables
10) Little Women
11) Big Guy and Little Women (quite funny as I recall)
12) The President's Daughter
13) A Midsummer Night's Dream
14) Gone With the Wind
15) Death on the Nile
16) Pride and Prejudice
17) The Iliad
18) Macbeth
19) Medea
20) Jane Eyre
21) Roughing It
22) Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (the British version!)
23) To the Lighthouse
24) Cheaper by the Dozen
25) Murder on the Orient Express
26) Frankenstein
27) (One I'd like to read this year) The Turn of the Screw

The title comes from the song "Belle" from Beauty and the Beast. Hopefully my friends lunch at Olive Garden and then attending Bridge to Terabithia with a potential visit to the Nevada Art Museum for a cool exhibit tomorrow will make for a fun celebration. Happy birthday to me . . .

Those were the good old days

2007-02-10T10:32:00.000-08:00

I got to sing last night. It made me happy. I like singing. It was for our church Valentine's Banquet. The theme was "Sweetheart Salute to Veteren's". I was in a trio that sang "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy". I sang "Sentimental Journey" on my own.

Why wasn't I born in 1935 again?

The song title is the same as the title of this post. It's from Damn Yankees.

Shaking the Blues Away

2007-02-02T21:53:00.000-08:00

I understand that part of my moodiness of late is due to many circumstances; the illness that wanted to take me over, my slight accident (hitting the wall of the highway thanks to an unforseen patch of ice--thank goodness it was a day of bad snow so I was driving like an overcautious granny anyway), the fight, our testing fiasco, shows, etc. Yes circumstantial annoyances have certainly added to my moodiness. It drives me insane, but I'm trying to find that optimism I've hidden so well so I can move on in life.

It's tough.

I am not a fan of depression, wallowing, winter, and such so this ridiculous pesky mood that won't shake is really driving me nuts. Anyone have a good antidote for the blues? None of mine seem to be working, and I'm getting desperate. Okay, maybe not desperate, but irritated enough to truly want a way out of it (I'm an actress, and our emotions always seem to be amplified by 20).

So I'll listen very carefully to Irving Berlin's "Shaking the Blues Away" (which Ann Miller sang in the wonderfully fun Easter Parade) to see if one of America's most prolific songwriters has any good advice for me to follow in my quest to rid myself of the icky melancholy.

Life goes on

2007-01-24T20:13:00.000-08:00

So it's been a rough week emotionally and physically (and a certain time of the month hitting VERY hard has not been fun). I ended up getting a chorus part in Charlie Brown and one of the boarding house girls in Millie. It's time, I have felt bad about having three big parts in a row. I've been on the other side of that before, and I know that it's no fun. I did drop because there's a class through the district that I've been wanting to take (plus it pays a stipend and can count as graduate credit or a recertification credit) on the same days as two of the matinees. Tough call. :) I'm not thrilled with how they cast the shows for the most part, but hey, they have to live with what they cast. I just have to do my best tapping and singing and no stressing! Oh, and had I stayed in CB, I've since learned they would have used me as the little redheaded girl (which I would disapprove of, because you never see her in the comics). Good save Lynette!

In 3 1/2 yrs. of teaching, I've never had a fight in class. Until Monday. Two boys from opposing gangs (huge, too, I might add) broke into it out of nowhere that I could tell. One of the kids, W. (I'll call him), was there for his first day. The other, J., was about 45 minutes late (typical for him). J. was there for about 5 minutes before I released them for an assignment. I said they could work where they wanted. They were across the room from each other. W. got up and started walking to J. and I could tell they should NEVERNEVERNEVERNEVER be near each other. There was some major shoving, me yelling for teacher backup, calling of the office, etc. The two were arrested, I had to fill out a police report AND a citizen's arrest (first time for both), and they've both been suspended for 90 days. And I am now the sad teacher with a file cabinet drawer she cannot open because J. hit his head on it pretty hard as he fell to the ground. Not fun. Hopefully I won't have anything like that again.

But we get about 7 kids from the biggest fight CHS has seen in years on Monday. Oi vey!!!

So, instilling a "standardized attire" as we are attempting to do in March may not be as dreadful as the kids seem to think. At least I'd be seeing less MLC's, Lima St., Res Boys, Tokers, etc. flying their colors and could concentrate more on teaching than policing for dress code.

The title of today's post comes from the song "Snoopy" from You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown.

La post nasal drip!

2007-01-13T10:19:00.000-08:00

Has anyone else ever been beat to a bloody pulp by a cold? Where it doesn't feel like a normal illness, but that it wants to take revenge for all the colds you've avoided? I've only had two like this; before the one I've been battling for more than two weeks. I wasn't thrilled when it reared it's nasty head, but thought "Hey, I'm on vacation, maybe it'll be over by school!" Not likely. I've been taking two hour naps every day. I've been going to bed between 9-10 every night. I've avoided all liquids, save for water, tea (not even Chai, because I'm trying to avoid dairy with this thing), and my medicines (I was doing Dayquil and Nightquil. I've shifted to Theraflu. Also been using Chloraseptic and Airborne). I haven't been overly active. WHY WON'T IT LEAVE ME?????

Last Saturday, I went to Belle's Tea Cottage to catch up with Lissa and some of her friends/family whom I've met. Her mom is a pharmacist and asked me about the sore throat that is the 2nd worst part of this cold (we'll get to number one). I said it was more scratchy, and she said that was a result of post nasal drip. Fabulous.

Now, the worst part of this cold has been my voice for the last 4 1/2 days. It's not quite gone, but it's been affected. I don't want to talk to much, because I can feel it wanting to go. Normally I'm thrilled at this situation, because I love the new sound my voice takes on. However, with auditions for You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown and Thoroughly Modern Millie on Tuesday, and callbacks both Wednesday and Thursday, I'm not nearly as thrilled. I've already e-mailed the director and explained my plight and asked for suggestions. She gave me several, and said I didn't need to come to auditions if my voice is still weak.

Anyway, that's my whining post for the month of January (not that I intend to make this a monthly thing). The title of this post is from the song "Adelaide's Lament" from Guys and Dolls.

I resolve . . .

2007-01-05T00:10:00.000-08:00

According to my blog, it is now OFFICIALLY 2007! As is so wonderfully spoken in the 1951 version of Showboat by Captain Andy (played by hilarious Joe E. Brown), "HAP-PY NEW YEAR!!!!!!" So there it is, Lynette's last attempt at ringing in the new year. Twas tragic, but Lynette went to bed before the 10:00 bells rang on December 31. I have been fighting a cold since Brigadoon, and it's decided that it's New Year's Resolution is to kill me before I turn 27. Ugh.

I've been able to relax and spend time with family this break more than before. I turned down my tradition of traveling somewhere this vacation. Instead I spent time with my completely adorable nieces, fun sisters, wonderful parents, great brother-in-law, crazy cousins, fabulous aunts and uncles, and both sets of awesome grandparents. Oh, and of course all of my colorful friends here in Northern Nevada. I had a great time.

For this post, I turned to She Loves Me for my title. The song is called I Resolve. Clever, eh? Oh, and in case you're wondering (if anyone even reads this anymore), my New Year's Resolution is to not create a mess that I cannot clean up in 10 minutes. Here's hoping I can succeed! Happy New Year all.

Happy Holidays!

2006-12-26T12:10:00.000-08:00

I tried to blog yesterday, but the site wasn't letting me go further than the entry page. I'd be there for about a second, and then it would turn off! Boo.

Anyway, I had a wonderful Christmas, and I hope everyone else did too. It was perfectly marvelous! Family, good food (corned beef and cabbage this year--one of my favorites!), great music, films, etc. Twas loverly.

So a very Merry Christmas, happy Boxing Day today, and I wish you all a fabulous New Year's!

This title comes from the song with the same title by Irving Berlin. It was used in the Christmas classic Holiday Inn. It's worth your while to see Fred Astaire and Bing Crosby try to trick each other throughout the film--so funny!

Make the yuletide gay

2006-12-02T19:03:00.000-08:00

Just out of curiosity, did I miss the big beta parade? I must have, for everything seems to be going that way. And I missed it, so now I'm stuck playing catch up. GRR! Oh well, better than never, right? We have a teacher affiliated with our school who has yet to learn how to use his e-mail account, and is "doing" it this week. He's been in the district for awhile. We'll see. I guess I'm not as far behind as some and I can live with that. I even have my own website for school: http://www.teacherweb.com/NV/OpportunityHighSchool/MsBrown/

So it is December. Brigadoon seemed to go pretty well. A well-respected theatre person in this area (I certainly cannot understand how this person earned this reputation, but I certainly don't agree with it!) who is notorious for sharing the most truthful and ripping opinion possible at all times even said it was beautiful. Yay! I don't think highly of this person's opinion about theatre, but I know it meant a lot to our director and other members within the cast.

Some friends and I are doing one old Christmas movie a weekend throughout this month. I came up with the idea, and I find it absolutely genious. Okay, I just love nostalgia, there, you happy? Last weekend it was White Christmas. This weekend's marquee is reading, Miracle on 34th Street (which was originally released in JULY of 1946! Can you believe it?). I love these old movies. Particularly with friends. It's better with hot drinks to go around (Chai has my vote). It's immensely improved with the serving of a soup of your choice in a bread bowl. If you have not tried this night in, I highly recommend it. If Christmas songs are sung or lights are looked at, it's improved even more. Sigh.

There are 14 school days left for us, but I'm okay with getting out on December 21. I love not having to go back until January 8!!!!!!! It doesn't feel as rushed. It gives me time to truly appreciate a good vacation. Especially since the semester ends prior to this break. Huzzah!

I've seen a couple of good movies lately. I liked The Prestige (but found it predictable). I laughed enough to lose 5 pounds in For Your Consideration. And I found that even Will Farrell's appeal can grow when he's working in a film with my favorite actress, Emma Thompson in Stranger than Fiction. Good times.

I spent Thanksgiving with about 24 or so people, most of whom I am related to. It was weird. We spent it at my aunt and uncle's place in Sparks (just outside of Reno). Their oldest, Bradley, went to Chicago on Monday with the family (this week) to start his training for the Navy. That's the third of my cousins, and I'll bet I have a couple more soon. It's so weird. Each of them is younger than me, and still can seem childlike in my eyes. I love them so much, and wish them all the safety possible. So, it was good, but it was bittersweet.

The song comes from "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" from Meet Me in St. Louis.

Everything was beautiful at the ballet

2006-11-04T11:51:00.000-08:00

Tonight we open Brigadoon. Yay for us! I feel more prepared to open this show than I have in about a year. I mean, I'm usually ready but the show isn't. Until now! I think it'll be good. They've poured on the cheesy and I'm laughing up a storm during the whole show. We have some classic lines like, "Where do I get a passport to disappear?" Ah, Broadway shows of the 1940s!

Seriously, though, the show is going well. Our dancers are well prepared. One of my favorites is Alice who was one of my younger sisters in Fiddler. She is an exquisite dancer and is mesmerizing to match in her dance with AJ, and then the mourning dance when Harry is found dead (AJ plays Harry, Alice is Maggie). I know I'm watching something very special, and I love that I get to be onstage watching the mourning dance. If any of you see the show, you'll know what I'm talking about.

The show has been fun. It's been a rare treat since there are absolutely no egos in the show. It has been so long since I was in a show like that. It greatly reduces the drama, and it's so relaxing.

So, if you're around, come see the show. Yes it's a shameless plug, but it's my blog and I'll write what I want to! :)

The title of this post comes from the song "At the Ballet" from A Chorus Line. It's one of my favorite numbers in the show.

When she knows as much as we know, she'll be on her way to Reno . . .

2006-10-12T19:47:00.000-07:00

I've never claimed to like Nevada too well. I like living close to family. I like many of the people here. But Nevada itself, with the exception of our half of Tahoe, is BLECH!!!!!! However, today seemed pleasant to me, and I liked it. Go figure.

I had to do a workshop today regarding how to interpret the info for the ALTs. It wasn't too bad. Well, my mom asked me earlier this week if I wanted to do this thing called Dream Dinners with her. I agreed because it sounded intriguing, and let's face it, my mom's fun to do things with. She gets very excited about things and pretty much hilarious to watch. At any rate, we had to be there at 4:30. The workshop ended at 3:30. Rather than go home, I decided to drop off my Voter Registration form that changed my address.

I had thought that I needed to drop off the form near the Capitol building. It was actually 6 blocks away. I walked because it was such a pleasant afternoon. I love 70 degree weather. I love the green grass littered with scarlet and gold gems. It was a great walk. I extended it by walking around the Capitol building and the Nevada Supreme Court building. I paid my respects to John Curry, Kit Carson, and the memorial to police killed in the line of duty. I walked reverently over the letters forming the Preamble to the Nevada Constitution. I lingered at the memorial to children from Nevada killed at the hand of another human being. I proudly gazed at the Memorial to the U.S.S. Nevada, and those who have served their country.

I realize that sometimes Nevada's laid back pace does not always agree with me. I wish we had fewer "hicks" and more urban sophistication. But we don't; at least not overall. We have our share, but they do not shape NV so much as these other people. However, when I am in such a great mood with such a perfect afternoon, I appreciate my home's relaxed approach to life. I like walking down the street and smiling at perfect strangers without them thinking I should be locked up. I like the enthusiasm with which this state capital has decided to approach the "Think Pink" campaign. I embraced it all.

The title comes from the song, "Shuffle off to Buffalo" from 42nd Street. Not quite CC, but it will do.

One short day in the Emerald City

2006-09-30T17:10:00.000-07:00

Okay so I ADORED Wicked!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Paint me green now, and start calling me Elphaba ! Good show, good music, good energy, good costumes, lousy dancing but eh! There's no such thing as a perfect show, and the dancing not being overly impressive is fine by me because that means there's a chance I could perform in it. Huzzah!!!!!!!

I also got to see many of my college friends. Christi, Megan, Esther, Sara, Tiffany, Andrea--it was so refreshing. I miss having friends my age and moral value. I don't know. I never seem to have a good balance of friends. I have either all Christian or all non-Christian. I don't mind having friends from both beliefs; in fact, I prefer it. But that just doesn't seem to work out for me. I don't know why. Anyway, that rant is over. It's just something I've been thinking about lately.

We took the kids to the ropes course again and had a good time again. I did the Zip Line for the first time and had a good time. It's fun to scare myself with heights. They used to totally freak me out, but I can push myself to do it.

I'm also administering the ALTs for both Pioneer and Opportunity. Kind of crazy. I'm working madly on the bubbling in and whatnot for the tests on Wed and Thur.

Beth, one of my former students, got married today. I was there and it was weird. I knew a lot of the teenagers and made a lot of small talk with people I don't know. I guess it was fine. The wedding was adorable. I guess I just am not much for weddings myself. They seem pretty anti-climatic to me.

The title comes from the song with the same title from Wicked.

Dit dit dah dit dah dit . . .

2006-09-11T15:48:00.000-07:00

Sooooooooo, life is busy but not at the same time, if that's even possible. I guess what I should REALLY say is that life is busy and stress-free. Therefore, it doesn't necessarily FEEL busy. I'm taking tap again after the summer healing of the over-sensative ankle. I've rejoined the church choir for the Christmas production. I'm contemplating being a stage manager for Bugsy Malone Jr. at the BAC. I've got about 2 rehearsals a week. I'm taking a class on SMART Boards. I've joined a gym and am attempting to go every day. I've got a MaryKay party on Saturday afternoon, so I'm cleaning house. I've got two weddings coming up here in the next month. My trip to Seattle in about a week and a half (friends and Wicked! Delightful to look forward to!). I've got plays to see for the people I know in them. Oh yeah, and a little thing I like to call work! :)

I don't mind teaching at the school I'm in. But I think I'm attempting a move next year to . . . SOMEWHERE! I know I don't want to make my life in Carson, and therefore don't want to become too settled. I'm looking at the New England area, Washington, Oregon, or (maybe) teaching overseas next year. I just, I don't know. I guess I've become a little restless out here. It's funny. When I was a kid, I loved Exeter. I truly did. I bawled buckets from September until January over that move. I never wanted to leave it. Now I want to live everywhere and experience everything. Not that Carson's all that bad, certainly not the worst place I've lived. I like having access to so much so easily. But I don't feel a strong desire (outside of my own fear of this risk) to stick around. I love my family and all, but I've never felt the need to live so close to them.

Anyway, just some thoughts on my mind. I figure if I work at it now, I'll be a little more prepared for it later! We'll see.

The lyrics come from the song, "The Night was Alive" from Titanic. The guy is singing about Marconi's telegraph and how it changed his life. I couldn't think of anything better, so I apologize.

I've been spinning round in a dizzy spell

2006-08-19T12:57:00.000-07:00

Yes it's been awhile since I've posted. I need to get some internet at my new apartment, and I just keep up my lazy approach: sitting back and hoping it magically appears. At the moment there is no luck, but I'll keep you posted! :)

So I love, LOVE my new apartment! I'll have to get some pictures up sometime. It's adorable. It's comfortable. It's ME! It's the first time I can honestly and completely say that. I'm happy. I just need to finish unpacking.

So as far as Brigadoon is concerned, I am encoring the part I played my senior year of college. I will be playing Meg Brockie again! HUZZAH! It's a fun part, and I get to play her uncensored this time around. She's a bit of a tart, to be sure. When NNU did the play, I just referred to kissing a lot of guys. We sure cleaned her up a lot. My beloved alma mater had done the play before on a few occasions, but here's the humorous part: I was the first person to perform the role at NNU!!! They'd always cut her out because of her "controversial" lifestyle. I think that's pretty funny. Anyway, this time around Stephanie has promised there will be no toning down lyrics or lines (not to say they're horrible, but just a little much by the Crusaders' standards). Ha ha! I'm excited. Chris has the lead, Sarah is Fiona (I love her!), and Kirk will be playing Jeff. I don't know him that well, but he's a nice guy. Once again I will be playing a "romantic" opposite someone my parents' age. Weird, but whatever. Meg pursues and Jeff gives sarcastic denial. It'll be fun.

School starts on Thursday, and our inservices begin on Tuesday. I'm a little nervous. Kirsten may not be back, meaning we'd need a new Science/Math teacher on our site. We also don't have a Sp. Ed. teacher--and we probably have the greatest need in the district for one. Pioneer will have a new Math teacher and we also have a new counselor. Should be interesting. I really hope we still have Kirsten. She's interviewed for a position where she would be training teachers in the district. They'd have to be daft not to hire her, but the three of us gel so well, and we've planned for next year with some exciting stuff . . . Plus, she's the one who "runs things" for us (credit counts, scheduling, district mentoring, etc.).

The lyrics come from the song "All Choked Up" from Grease. We cut it out of our production and went with the movie's "You're the One that I Want". I like the other song better. Well, I should now unpack, lesson plan, work on a Scotish accent, learn lines, or work on harmonies. Adieu!

There is a brotherhood of man . . .

2006-08-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

So I've been watching the two younger boys of a family from church since Friday night. Tomorrow night is when their parents get home. Kevin and Lynda farmed out the other three children. They asked me to watch these two because they've begun football practice in Dayton. Benji (9) and Jonathan (7) had their first practice yesterday.

Now, I've never been around football that much. I was the oldest of three girls. And while we each played sports here and there whilst growing up in lovely Exeter, we weren't what anyone would call jocks. We were MUSICIANS! We were THESPIANS! We were ARTISTS! And that was how we liked it. Jessica readily admits that she had two reasons for playing T-ball and softball: A) For the snacks that came after the games and B) If she played the catcher, she could look for bugs during the games. We weren't completely prissy, and we actually have pretty good capabilities when it comes to atheletics (when we put our minds to it) thanks to the Smith side of the family. But rough, tackling, pig-skin throwing, dirty, helmeted girls we were not. I enjoyed playing touch football in middle school for P.E., but that's where my involvement with the game ended.

Until now. On Saturday I went with the boys to pick up their gear. Helmets, pads, pants, shoulder pads, and jerseys were all on the agenda. The coach of Benji's team seemed to understand my completely baffled look and instructed me (partially) how to get them ready for the first practice on Monday evening. Crazy!

Last night I dropped the boys off. I believe it was the first time I was ever at a kids event where I saw more fathers than mothers. Many big guys hanging around a fence talking about their glory days as a high school player were to be seen and heard. All the moms seemed to be wearing a uniform of atheletic skirts/shorts, a visor, a sleeveless shirt, tennis shoes (sans visible socks), sunglasses and a whistle. A stark contrast to my jeans, t-shirt and flip-flops. I came back around the time the practice ended. Jonathan's team looked like it was ending first, so I hung out by them. I now understand why football players pat each other's butts! The mystery has been solved! The coach told them it was a way to encourage someone. I never quite figured out how that worked, but whatever.

I have come to the conclusion that I would not have made a good boy. Obviously. My Uncle Jacque teases me often by saying, "Lynette, you're a gay man trapped in a woman's body." When the boys were trying on their helmets for size, it was difficult to get them on. The coach encouraged them by yelling his insistence that they keep trying. Now I would have broken down into tears at that point if I were them, but they didn't. I liked the way I was handled gently by teachers and coaches and ballet instructors. I thrived under that sort of encouragement. If I'd been yelled at that way (though, all "encouraging"), I would have quit with the helmet stuck on my head and walked out (returning the helmet via my parents). I'm sure glad I wasn't a boy . . .

The title comes from the song "Brotherhood of Man" from the musical How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. Speaking of musicals, I'm auditioning for Brigadoon tonight. We'll see how that goes.

It's too darn hot!

2006-07-23T10:41:00.000-07:00

I leave for Oregon tomorrow! Yay for vacation! Yay for roadtrips! Yay for the friends I'll see! Yay for the Shakespeare plays I'm seeing! Yay for a mom who'll go with me!!!!!!!!

Here's the deal though. I get back Thursday. I move in as much as I can within a few precious hours on Friday. From Friday night until Wednesday night I watch Benji and Jonathan. Tuesday night I'm auditioning for Brigadoon and Wednesday night is the callback for this play. Am I overbooking myself? Hard to tell . . .

So this is a short post, and I apologize. I'm just tired. Tired and hot. My car is boiling with no a/c. My apartment (not for long!!!) is hot. Even when it cools down at night the furniture retains the heat. I've taken to spraying water on the bedspread on top of which I sleep. That's just so I can fall asleep. I bought a bike tonight for three great reasons: 1) Fun 2) Excercise 3) To cool off. I'm hoping I can take it with me to Oregon.

The title of the post comes from the song titled the same. It's from Kiss Me Kate.

Till your dreams come true, you'll live on Avenue Q!

2006-07-18T03:03:00.001-07:00

So, the big news must come out. I am moving. Across town. To a nice apartment complex. One with airconditioning, a pool, a gym, covered parking, a barbeque, a beautiful grassy park-like setting, a playground--a real gem of an apartment. I will be rooming with Lissa. This is the good news. The bad news is the fact that I have to pack everything and be finished in less than a week (ideally). Ugh. There are fewer things I hate more!

I am weeding through my stuff like crazy, and I hate it. I have a lot of crap and I hate to be reminded of the fact. I go through it, but my stupid sentimental side keeps getting in the way of practicality. I normally embrace this nostalgia-loving-weeping part of myself, because I truly like this aspect of myself. Unfortunately it's just become such an irritation. I wonder if I could call in Rosie from The Jetsons to help me with this dilemma, because as a robot who doesn't know me she would certainly be an asset in this painful chore.

Why do I need to be done in a week? Well, the powers that be at this loverly residence have required a 10 day holding fee, which we paid today. I'm probably not getting back until late on the 27th from Oregon. Normally, I would not care for such a triviality. However, from the 29th-2nd I am housesitting/babysitting for some friends from church. I am also spending the night on the 28th since Lynda and Kevin will be flying out early on the 29th (we're talking pre-sunrise departure to get to Reno ontime!). ACK!!!!!!! This too shall pass, according the the Bible, and I'm clinging to that. Where has my summer flown to?

Today, 22 years ago, my darling sister Janina was born. We celebrated with our mother by seeing The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Abriged at the Lake Tahoe Shakespeare Festival this evening. It was probably the best thing I've seen up there, but I expected it to be so. The style in which their comedies are performed gave me the impression that that would be the perfect show for them to do. I laughed a lot, along with the rest of the audience. I shouted, "Cut the crap Hamlet! My biological clock is ticking and I want babies now!" with the best of them. Good times.

I found a DVD of Middlemarch at the library. I read the book over 3 years ago, and enjoyed it. Plus many good Brits are in it. What is it about Robert Hardy that just makes me grin all the time? Even when he plays a scummy character, I can't help but fall in love with that adorable old man; at least a little bit!

The title of the song is the same as that which is the show: Avenue Q.

We'll go down south, and see your people

2006-07-12T12:36:00.000-07:00

Hello all! It's my last week of summer school. Oh darn! :) Like I said earlier, it's not been too bad at all. Cake compared to Opp (though I expect to see some of these kids again).

On Monday I was able to visit the kickoff to the Tahoe Shakespeare Festival at the Broadway Under the Stars concert. I was soooooo stoked! I have long been a fan of Rebecca Luker (I think she was the third person who starred as Christine in Phantom of the Opera). I went up with the church choir (Grandpa Smith went) and a couple of my older friends from the theatre (meaning age, but spiritwise at least my age, if not younger). Twas fun! They encouraged us to sing. Never one to pass up a good showtune, I was belting all night long! The guy was pretty amazing--like watching Gene Kelly or something.

So either tomorrow I am going to the Family Reunion in Mammoth. I'm just going up for the weekend--not the diehard like others in the Smith clan. It began last weekend. I did get to see my sister, brother-in-law, and lovely nieces for lunch the last couple of days. Brianna seems to really be warming up to me; even knows me by sight now! Leigha was her crazy self. This time around she told me that she is " . . . so going to move to Carson City when I grow up. I'll live next door to grandma and have a tunnel from my room to your house, Aunt Lynette!"

I saw Pirates of the Caribbean; The Dead Man's Curse. I liked it, but not so well as the first one. I cannot, however, wait for the third one! I also took my mom to see The Devil Wears Prada for her birthday, which we both enjoyed. It was quite different from the book, but still good!

The title of this post comes from the song, "Wheels of a Dream" from Ragtime. I love this show. This song, when sung by Audra McDonald and Brian Stokes Mitchell, is amazing. Sigh.

The poet people call The Bard of Stratford-on-Avon

2006-07-02T09:44:00.000-07:00

To all of my Oregonian friends:

I will be in Oregon from the 24-27 of this month. My mom and I are going to visit your fair state to witness the Ashland exprience, aka The Oregon Shakespeare Festival! Yay! We will be staying with my mom's best friend since grade school. We will be seeing King John, and Two Gentleman of Verona. I'm sooooooooooo excited! If you want to make arrangements to visit, call or e-mail moi!

See your state soon!

The title comes from the song "Brush Up Your Shakespeare" from Kiss Me Kate.

Those magic changes . . .

2006-06-29T18:52:00.000-07:00

Week 3 of summer school is over now. 2 to go--and only 7 days! Woot-woot!!!! I'm loving this four day a week, 5 hour schedule. I love that school is out at 12:30, because then I have the rest of my day for moi! Plenty o' time! I should petition with the powers that be to instate this policy year round . . .

So I might be becoming a Mary Kay consultant. I'm considering it anyway. It's kind of . . . weird. We'll see how I do. It would be a very part time 2nd job. I mean VERY part time. We shall see . . .

I had an unfortunate experience the other day. It was on Monday, and my mother and I had gone to Reno together. We went to see me sister and me da. We went to Newman's Deli (where Nina works) to eat lunch. My mom ordered a sandwich but could only eat half of it. Janina had been able to spend part of her break with us, and mom sent the sandwich with Janina to be wrapped up. Another girl came out to bring it out to my mom. "Which one of you is Janina's mother?" WHAT??????????? I was mistaken for the 51 year old mother???????? About an hour before that I'd been mistaken for a high schooler!!!!! I ask you, how does this happen???

The title comes from Grease and a song called "Magic Changes". I found it fitting, because it seemed to deal with each of these topics. BTW, my foot was just sprained! It hurts because of the bruising, but not too much!

You're standing on my toe . . .

2006-06-21T14:29:00.000-07:00

So I am determined to be a better blogger again. One of my summer resolutions. Along with keeping my apartment cleaner, adding more to my grad school fund, enjoying the time off, traveling, prepping for next year . . . Oi!

LLL has one more weekend. I am somewhat saddened by this revelation because it has been the best cast I've worked with since . . . I dunno, college? YIKES! Four years ago! It's been fun, though I'm still finding areas to feel more comfortable in such a daunting role. Maybe I'll grasp command of it by Saturday, our last show! :)

So on Sunday I went hiking at Tahoe. I fell on some rocks and literally could have killed myself. I might read this and think "Wow! Lynette's reached a new level of exaggeration!" Don't. I. Wish. I was falling head first. There was a slide of rocks that I was falling towards face first. For some reason I my fall was stopped short. I hurt my ankle again--the same one I've hurt twice in the last 5 weeks pretty badly, and I scratched both of my arms. GRR!!!!!!!!! I'm headed to the doctor's soon, though. Sigh.

The song title is "The Song that Goes Like This" from Spamalot. It was the closest I could think of to about hurting a foot. Maybe I'll get to see it in NYC if Esther and I fall through with our plans to visit next month . . . :)

2006-06-14T14:28:00.000-07:00

Newlyweds! Congrats to Tara and Chad!

2006-06-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

Caitlin, myself, Ashleigh, and Jen hook pinkies for the "secret Pink Ladies handshake".

2006-06-14T14:20:00.000-07:00

Frenchy lets her Teen Angel give her good advice.

2006-06-14T14:13:00.000-07:00

Don't the guys look cool during Greased Lightening?

Everything's as if we never said goodbye!

2006-06-14T14:09:00.001-07:00

So sorry for this ridiculously long absence. There actually have been times when I was attempting to write or send photos, but it just didn't work out. GRR! So, Grease went REALLY WELL. It was somewhat shocking. I rolled the ankle that I'd twisted about two weeks before during one of our dances, but what do you do? All I know is that I was very glad it was the last show at that point so I didn't really have to continue dancing like a weirdo. Umm, I went to Tara's wedding in Nampa. It was weird to go back since I haven't been there since 2003. I drove through the campus and just kind of took it all in. Oh, and I flew there. Yup. Rented my first vehicle. I ordered a compact car. I got a free upgrade. Yup. I was sporting in a grey minivan!!!!!!!! Oi vey! School ended, and ended well. I am teaching summer school--8th grade English at CMS. This was day 3--not too bad. Love's Labour's Lost--well everyone else was doing well. I've sucked to an embarrassing degree (starting with me going "Bleh!" onstage with my tongue hanging out on Opening Night. Leoney was there that night and said he liked it--and he'd expected the Theatre gods to strike me dead), but hopefully the next two weekends are better. I need to wrap this up at the moment. The song comes from the same title from Sunset Boulevard. Oh! And Happy Flag Day!

2006-06-14T14:09:00.000-07:00

Ashleigh, myself, Jessica, Caitlin, and Katie dance our way through Grease!

3 weeks and it couldn't be worse!

2006-04-26T15:12:00.000-07:00

Yay!!!!!! I've grown up in blog years to the age of 2 now! Who'd have thought it'd last this long, huh? I don't journal as much anymore, but whatevah. I have an ONLINE journal!!! However, I have made it a point to not get overly personal here. After all, I will reserve some good judgement and distrust of the Internet so I don't end up having one of those creepy Urban Legend like stories of my own. *I really should avoid using my personal computer for blogging as it seems very shy of separating paragraphs. I'm not quite sure why, but as an English teacher this truly annoys me! *So Grease is going somewhere, but I'm not sure I can quite see the direction. Truthfully if I could I'm not that certain I'd be all that satisfied wither it goes. After all the hard work I've put in, and the fact that I show up to rehearsals always I'd hate to know that we do indeed suck. I've gone when very sick. When I've visited my dying great-grandmother (though I'm fortunate in that she lives in Reno). When I've been tired, irritated, in pain, snow, sleet, rain, etc. I'm just getting annoyed that we're now 2 1/2 weeks away and that people still don't take it seriously. I like doing the hard work during rehearsals. I don't expect everyone to feel the way I do, but it's gotten to the point of ridiculous! GRR!!!!!!!!!!! *The title comes from "Another Openin', Another Show" from Kiss Me Kate. Sorry my 2 year anniversary wasn't as cheery as last year. I guess I should be honest, though.

It's the hard-knock life for us!

2006-04-19T11:08:00.000-07:00

Sooooooooo, it is finally SPRING BREAK!!!!!!!!!!! YAY!!!!!!! We went from my birthday (Feb. 20) to April 17 with no break. It was long. Hard. But it's now here!!!!!!!! After this, I just have to make it to Memorial Day, and then to June 6th. Huzzah!

Some sad news on the homefront. My great-grandmother has really taken a turn for the worse. I was able to leave school about 12:30 on Friday to go spend time with her. The doctors didn't give her a week to live. So we've all kind of gone up to spend time with her and whatnot.

Grease is opening in less than a month. I feel prepared. I think I'm the only one who knows lines. I know the dances, so I'm just trying to make them look good now.

This break has been all about cleaning for me. Sleeping and cleaning. Oi! I wish I wasn't such a messy person, and I wish that messes truly did bother me. I try to be neat, but I think I go to about a month and a half at the longest. What is wrong with me?

So the song comes from Annie when all the girls are trying to clean the orphanage. I may not have a Miss Hannigan on my tail, but I know how they feel!

Drop that Name!

2006-03-28T20:14:00.000-08:00

So, do you ever find yourself in situations that you just have a hard time believing, even if you know there's no way you could possibly be dreaming? I do. Very occasionally. This weekend was one of those situations. It was great. *Blogger is so dumb on my laptop, so I apologize for the lack of paragraph breaks.* First things first: I auditioned for Love's Labour's Lost last Wednesday. On Friday I found out that I'm playing the part of . . . the Princess of France! Yay! It's going great cast, and Chris is directing. It'll be in June, so if you're in the Reno area at that time, be sure to see it! *We also had a great weekend for theatre. WNMTC opened Forever Plaid, which I saw on Thursday during the final dress rehearsal. I also got to be a PART of the show and helped Stephanie make something look like fog. Carson High School put on Suessicle the Musical which opened this weekend. I actually thoroughly enjoyed it! Very colorful and fun. This weekend also had a professional opening; A Couple of Blaguards, the touring show, opened at the BAC. Frank and Malachy McCourt wrote the show based on some of their own experiences. *So I got to hang out at Adele's (a world renowned resturant in CC, which has amazing food at posh/swanky prices) for FREE with John and Chris (who both work at the BAC). Oh, and did I mention Howard Platt, Mickey Kelly, and Steve McGraw were there? Because they were. Howard and Mickey were the actors in the great 2 man show, and Steve is the producer. All of them know the McCourt brothers personally (Mickey's been in the show with Malachy, Howard was the best man at Frank's wedding . . .!) and told fabulous stories about them. Steve also owns the theatre where Forever Plaid opened; Forbidden Broadway also plays there, and HE HELPED START IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I don't know if I can possibly express how incredibly amazing this experience has been for me. I mean it, they are such great people. It's also been so fascinating to hear about the experiences of professionals and such. Like the time Mickey was performing in Ireland with Malachy, and Malachy literally left the stage during the show to use the restroom and didn't tell Mickey. Or working with famous actors in films and shows. Mickey's experiences growing up in Ireland. I just loved the whole thing! I'm looking forward to this next weekend when I get to do it again. *The title of this post comes from the song with the same title from Bells are Ringing. It's a very funny number.

2006-03-19T10:13:00.000-08:00

Leigha loves spending the night at my place!

2006-03-19T10:09:00.000-08:00

Janina and I with our 91 year old Great- Grandmother, Evelyn.

2006-03-19T10:06:00.000-08:00

Tea with my Grandma, Lissa, myself, Janina, and my mom for my birthday!

2006-03-19T10:00:00.000-08:00

Turning 26 isn't so bad, right?

How we gonna pay last year's rent?

2006-03-15T16:15:00.000-08:00

Did I mention this yet? I can't remember. My roommate has decided that living closer to work would be wise. While I certainly cannot disagree with her, I must admit the financial bind could make things a tad tighter. Ugh. I hate budgeting and blah blah blah. I suppose that's what comes of growing up and what not. I can't say I'm too upset. I'll miss her, yes, but Jeanne and I have this phenomenal way of missing each other 90% of the time. I frequently get home after she's in bed, and I have to leave for work prior to her arousel in the morning. I'm sort of looking for another place, but I figure I really want it to be worth my while, so I am working it out. We'll see what becomes of this.

Next week we have NO REHEARSAL!!!!!!!!! I am excited, I must admit. I love rehearsing, but it'll be nice to have a week off. Hopefully by the time we resume Spring will have peered her teasing head for good, and all will be lovely. I'm sick of the cold, the snow, the ice, etc. It's icky.

Monday we start a new quarter at school. The LAST ONE!!!!!!! I'm having a hard time believing it. I love that I get paid through the summer, too. Huzzah! I'm not forced to work this summer. I'll only do it if I want to! I may select to do so simply to help myself out financially, but tis not a necessity.

Happy Ides of March, people! My best friend from Wilson Middle School, Tracie, text messaged me with that today. I texted back, "Don't befriend anyone named Brutus today." She texted back, "Et tu Brute?" Ah yes, I believe we'd still be friends today. She's funny.

Well, I must be off to thaw out my wonderfully freezing fingers. May your Friday be filled with blarney, pots o'gold, luck of the shamrock, and many Irish blessings. I intend to watch Darby O'Gill and the Little People (Which was Sean Connery's first American Film!) and The Quiet Man starring wonderful John Wayne and Maureen O'Hara.

The title comes from lyrics from the song Rent from the show Rent.

Gotta Dance!

2006-03-03T11:24:00.000-08:00

So . . . I've been fighting a losing battle for the duration of this week, and gave in yesterday in the late morning. I am sick. It sucks to feel so bad and have a burning throat, achy head, incessant exhaustion, etc. I'm home today jiggity-jig. I feel bad because Kirsten is gone today, so Dave is the only "normal" teacher at OHS. Not a day I envy. I left yesterday so I would hopefully be well enough today to work and not leave the school in a lurch. I felt so bad, however, I called in sick. Apparently the district wasn't able to get subs for Kirsten OR me! Talk about guilt! (Bear with me, blogger isn't letting me separate paragraphs). *I decided to go to rehearsal last night anyway because I love rehearsing (though I didn't feel very up to it), and because we were learning something new; the dance for "Shaking at the High School Hop." Dance not being my forte was the reason I chose to go. I loved it! I get to do a lot of lifts in the dance--flying in the air is so gratifying! [Admittedly, this is part of the reason I want to play Elphaba; though the music and meaty role is also very enticing] I also get to BE a lifter! There is this move where the guys hook arms with the girls, the guys bend over and kind of roll the girls over their backs. Well, I dance with Adam (aka, "Doody") who is not supposed to be a dancer. Our dance looks ridiculous compared to everyone else. He'll just stand there while I move around. So, I get to "be the man" and Adam gets to be lifted. I feel so buff! *Anyway, last night I was leaving Gina's sauna, er, dance studio, and Stephanie was walking by me. She said, "So Lynette, it looks like you're becoming a dancer. I'm witnessing it happening!" Yay!!!!!!!!! I've always loved dance and adored it when I was taking lessons as a kid. The year I was five, I was so engrossed with the Mikhail Baryshnikov version of The Nutcracker, that I was barely able to be torn away from the television to help decorate the Christmas Tree. I remember being mesmerized by the grace and beauty. I was truly obsessed. Maybe I ended my chances along this line by dropping dance. I missed my calling! :( *The title of this post comes from the classic movie musical, Singin' in the Rain.

Oh one last kiss!

2006-02-28T14:10:00.000-08:00

This weekend will be slightly on the insane side as surely all my weekends will be for awhile. My great-grandmother, Nana, is turning 91 this week. She is one of the two-and-a-half great-grandparents I've known (two great-grandmothers, and a step-great-grandpa), and the only one still alive. No one is really expecting her to live much longer, which is sad, but a darned good reason to celebrate a live that began in 1915! She tells us stories of getting her hair dipped in inkwells during school, and other forms of old fashioned elementary school flirtations. It's great.

Sunday, I must admit, I'm NOT looking forward to. Oh, the Oscars I am excited about, don't get me wrong. I loved Good Night, and Good Luck, Capote, and I thought Munich was very well done. I loved some of the performances I saw and agree with Reese Witherspoon, Joaquin Phoenix, Philip Seymour Hoffman, David Straithairn, Paul Giamatti, Keira Knightly, Catherine Keener . . . the list grows with the more I see. Yessiree, I love the Oscars!

However, there is a dreaded awards ceremony for that same day. One I feel obligated to attend, but not so excited for. The Albert Awards. Never heard of them? Oh! Neither had I until January. Drat! Remember the summer of Shakespeare I had? Well, stressful as the summer was; for as much drama as there was, I guess I had some good experiences. Meeting new people and all.

Well, this troupe has an awards ceremony that frankly strikes me as silly. I was okay with being nominated for Best Supporting Actress originally. They sent us two ballots for nominations. I was gone from the second one. However, I have learned that Leoney and I are probably winning an award for (get this) best kiss!!!!!!! Ick. Embarrassing. I don't want to go. But I probably will to support the others getting awards. Ugh.

The title of this post comes from a song by the same name from Bye Bye Birdie.

Getting to know you!

2006-02-20T20:01:00.000-08:00

Okay, another birthday post. Yikes!!!!!!!! Today I am 26. Yup. By the time my parents were my age, both myself and Jessica were born. I have a sneaking suspicion that my 26th year will be different than theirs.

To my post! I'll try to post pictures later, but technology is still kicking my butt, so I make no guarantees. I'll explain if I can post. In the meantime:

26 Things I've Learned in 26 Years

1) My attitude sets the tone for my dealings with everything. Religion, work, friendships, hobbies . . .

2) Learning to appreciate your own company is about the best investment of time you can make.

3) Traveling is the greatest of learning.

4) Kindred spirits can be found anywhere. Keeping your eyes and mind open helps the process immensely.

5) You are often the most inaccurate or accurate in evaluating yourself. It's rare that there is a happy medium.

6) Reading will give you some of the most satisfying relationships (both real and not) you can ever have.

7) To be yourself not only makes life easier on you, it makes it more fun!

8) A creative outlet is a fantastic way to deal with life's hardships.

9) Laughing is not only great exercise; it's a great way to make memories.

10) Work is ever so much more endurable when you enjoy what you do.

11) Attempting to live life with as few regrets as possible makes the past easier to face and the future brighter.

12) Families are to be cherished.

13) Follow your heart, it knows you better than your mind.

14) Technology is overrated.

15) Friendships should cross age barriers.

16) Have role models, and be a role model.

17) Never allow yourself to give into boredom.

18) Love others.

19) Indulging in whims once in awhile is healthy.

20) There is such a thing as good debt. It is worthwhile to make sacrifices because of it, too.

21) A playful spirit and a touch of innocence keeps one young.

22) You may as well spend time with music, films, literature and art that is of a high standard. It's educational and a good use of time. But leave room for some guilty pleasures. If for no other reason than this; it reminds you of what good quality is.

23) Trust is not an easy thing to earn and therefore should not be taken lightly.

24) If exercise is necessary for health, make sure it's fun as well.

25) Money saved is a good thing that can be invested in a future pleasure.

26) Singing for fun should not stop at the age of 5.

The title of the post comes from the song of the same title. It's from The King and I. Happy Birthday to moi!

Beauty School Dropout

2006-02-01T16:04:00.000-08:00

So internet access has been the most ridiculous hassle of late. Wanting to blog, and having obstacle after obstacle is truly a curse of sorts. Perhaps I've angered the technology gods by shaking my fist at computers one too many times or something. At any rate, someone is laughing at my technological inadequecies and idiocy. At least someone can enjoy it, even if it's not me.

Anyway I have a wonderful life that I'd like to keep going. Wonderful.

I'm taking TAP DANCING and it's fun!!!!!!! Gina is the instructor. That woman is about as great as they come. Not only is she a blast to be around, but I'm being taught by a British lady who used to dance at the Moulin Rouge. Not too shabby. I seem to amuse her, so that makes life fun, too. I walked into class last week, and even though she knew I was in her class, I got a "LYNETTE!!!!!!!" as a greeting. It's nice to feel like people want you around.

I auditioned for Grease with the company I've worked with the most out here. I'm playing Frenchy, the high school and beauty school dropout. Ironically, I'm the only teacher of the 4 Pink Ladies AND (I believe) the only one with a Bachelor's of any sort. I got to laugh at that one. I've also been told to work on my voice as I come across as too intelligent. So I'm hamming it up, and it seems to be working. I'm looking for any clueless moment available. Though it's no Into the Woods like Steph gets to do (How fun!), I am already having a blast.

I'm singing at our Valentine's Banquet at church in a few weeks, too. Kristen claims to be mad at me because the two of us made a point to miss it each year and celebrated our "Anti-Valentine's Date" instead. Well, she's gone and she has a boyfriend, so I say we're even!

School is making me want to go insane, but hopefully it'll get better because of some measures we're trying to take now. I don't know if I can teach at a regular school now, because I've become quite accustomed to kicking out the students who refuse to do their work. It's nice to have an alternative that is supported, I guess. The students in one of my classes have a new trick now. Yep. They like to make popping noises with their mouths so I can't figure out who's doing it. It's like teaching 3rd grade. Ugh.

Well, the title is from that song from Grease. I'll post more when I can!

The seven deadly virtues, those ghastly little traps!

2006-01-13T18:21:00.000-08:00

I got this meme from Devon. I thought it was fun, and so I have slowly been doing it throughout the week. Enjoy!

Seven things to do before I die:
1. Live abroad.
2. Teach a strictly literature class.
3. Travel to Prince Edward Island.
4. Write a published book of some sort.
5. Do a lead that I'd love (coughEPONINEcough) in a great and professional-like musical production.
6. Be involved in some political campaign of merit.
7. Dance with grace, style, and skill.

Seven things I cannot do
1. Dive
2. Read music
3. Understand how Hilary Duff ever became famous or popular
4. Speak Italian
5. Drive a stick shift
6. See well without glasses or contacts when driving
7. Realize the appeal of running for fun

Seven things I say most often:
1. Sarcastic answers to questions for the purpose of making people laugh.
2. Guess what my students did today?
3. Oy vey! (I used it a lot during Fiddler, and it just won’t leave my vocabulary!)
4. Here’s the thing . . .
5. Quotes from Shakespeare, Anne of Green Gables, Jane Austen, Gilmore Girls, various movies . . .
6. Carson City is full of hicks!
7. I can’t, I have rehearsal.

Seven books I love:
1. Pride and Prejudice
2. Anne of Green Gables
3. Jane Eyre
4. The Chronicles of Narnia
5. Shakespeare’s plays (there are several I read over and over)
6. The Princess Diaries series (hilarious!)
7. Agatha Christie mysteries

(Okay, I realize I wasn’t completely staying true to the requirements of the section, but there are far too many to choose from! Reducing it this much was a hassle.)

Seven movies I watch over and over again:
1. Pride and Prejudice
2. Anne of Green Gables
3. Much Ado About Nothing
4. Meet Me in St. Louis
5. Roman Holiday
6. Emma (with Gwenyth Paltrow)
7. Love Actually

My seven most vivid memories
1. At my 8^th grade graduation was when the school decided to give us the awards that weren’t academic. The academic awards and student of the month awards were given at an all school ceremony the last week of school. I had been proud to get my award for Straight A’s, honor roll, Top 20 in Science, History, blah, blah, blah. Anyway, that was all I pretty much expected to have happen. The awards at Graduation were for Lion’s Club, or Valedictorian, or whatever. I planned to kick back and talk with the guys I was sitting between. I gave a half-hearted attempt to listen to the school nurse, who presented the first award. It was the Shirley Baker Humanitarian Award (she’d been a school nurse who had died midway through my 5^th grade year). They announced the winner—it was me! I don’t know if I’ve ever been so shocked or honored in my life! I’ve won other awards in my life, but that one has meant the most to me, because it was an award for my character, not my achievements.

2. The first speech meet of my junior year of high school was such a crazy day! I’d competed on the LJHS speech team my sophomore year and had done okay; not great, but okay. My junior year, I chose a piece very different from my piece my sophomore year. I competed in Drama Interpretation. I felt okay about my piece, but not totally enthused—it was about a baton twirler. Anyway, our first meet was at Wasson High School, in or near Colorado Springs. The meet, in fine Wasson tradition, was running about four hours off schedule. This meant I never bought any lunch, because our next round was supposed to start before our last one let out, and I wasn’t sure that I’d get to really have time to eat before competing. I didn’t want to leave my lunch if I had to go to another round, because A) Cold pizza which isn’t great to start with tastes nastier at a high school event. B) There was a chance that it would not be found in a sea of backpacks, coats, files, etc. C) I liked to eat afterward as kind of reward for my hard work in three rounds. When I came out of my third round, the food had been sold out and was gone. No worries. It was Jenny Jones’s birthday, and we had a cake. Not enough to fill me up, but enough to tide me over. Anyway, they posted the competitors for the final round. I went up to check, because that’s what we would do, but I didn’t expect to see my code. But there it was! And Julie Checketts, another girl from my school, was in it, too! We hurried to the room, because the round tended to start once everyone was there. We each competed, and I did the best I could, considering the stress. I was in with “the best”. Julie, Sean, Kourtney, Juliet, Katie . . . all of us were there. At about 9:30, they started the awards ceremony. I ended up getting 4^th place, I think. Yay! When we tried to go home, we couldn’t. Our bus driver had left around 4, and only told one of the kids, James. Apparently there were mechanical problems, and he was trying to get them fixed. We were all starving, cold, and exhausted. The people running the Wasson meet had to get a van to shuttle us to a Denny’s where we waited for our bus. We didn’t get home until 3 a.m. on Sunday. Oddly enough, the next year, Mrs. Smith didn’t have us go to the Wasson meet . . .

3. During my sophomore year of college, I did what any normal kid does on a Friday night; I was having fun with my friends. When I got back to the dorm, I had a voice mail . . . from my parents. This was odd, since we usually talked on Sunday nights. I could also tell from the tone of my father’s voice that something was genuinely wrong. I called immediately after I woke up fearing for whatever it was that I was going to hear. All semester long, I knew something huge and hard was going to happen to my family. Do you ever get that feeling? You just know something isn’t right, but you don’t know why? Well, I in all my imaginative glory pictured my entire family dying in a car wreck. Hearing my dad’s voice was reassuring. It was November. My parents answered and I asked what was wrong right away. My dad asked how I knew, and my mom said, “Lynette can always tell.” My 17 year old sister was pregnant and due in January. She had just told them that week (though she’d been showing for awhile). They also told me in the same phone call that they intended to move somewhere in the summer—either Arizona or Nevada! Needless to say, both of these pieces of news changed my life in a dramatic way.

4. This event also took place during my sophomore year of college (it was probably the biggest year ever). I was in the Junior Class Play, which was The Night of January 16^th by Ayn Rand. It was a courtroom drama/comedy, and it was such a fun cast to be a part of. Anyway, I played an old Swedish maid whose belief in religious justice could probably make Jonathon Edwards’s “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” look like the 23^rd psalm. I had been the maid of the murdered man. Anyway, my testimony during the play could “make or break” the case, and it was one of those shows where the jury is picked from the audience. Because I had so much information, I would often run lines during intermission with the two lawyers, Jen Hill and Cory Schmidt. Cory and I really made a point to do this, because my testimony helped with her case and I had so much evidence for the case. Our final performance had a dead audience, and I knew my character was funny enough to bring them to life. I asked Cory if she was ready to run lines, and she said, “Nah. We’ve done a pretty good job with it.” Okay by me! When it got to our scene, Cory didn’t say two words put together that were in the script!!!!!!!!! It was so thrilling and scary at the same time. It got so bad that she said, “So . . . January 16^th was the night he got married, right?” “NO! That the night he DIED!” There were even parts where I knew my testimony was crucial to later testimonies, so I had to say things like, “I want to tell you something,” all the while trying to get the poor girl back on track. My heart was literally pounding as I left the witness stand for that performance.

5. My senior year of college was quite an exciting year for me. I did deal with bouts of loneliness/feeling left out and plenty of self doubt as to whether I was cut out for this senior project thing or teaching thing. However, most of it had a golden ring around it. I remember at the end of the year being so excited about London, but knowing I had to make the most of every day because life was going to be vastly different soon. On one of my last days, we had the Dooley Banquet. I was a sophomore girl’s R.A. that year, and it was truly an amazing wing of girls I had. I was feeling sad because I was going to miss them a lot, and they ambushed me! The girls got together and got me some amazing gifts and a card which I’ve kept in a scrapbook I specifically created for my experience as an R.A. I loved those girls so much, and it surprised me how much I meant to them.

6. The third and final semester of my senior year of college, I was broke. I mean, the if-I-found-10- cents-on-the-ground,-I-considered-myself-fortunate kind of broke. I was trying to find a job at first, but then I got the massive piles of grading that squelched that plan. I literally would get home about 4:00, have a quick dinner, and sit until 10-11 at night grading. Weekends were great, because I didn’t have to go to school, and I could concentrate on teaching. I could sit and grade. On a good weekend, I would put in my 3 or so hours of time set painting for the Fall play (because I wanted to honor my drama scholarship requirements) as a break, and go to church as a break. If I could finish up on Saturday night, then I could do my homework for the classes we had to take on Mondays, and give myself a couple of free hours to play. On a good weekend. Anyway, I was broke, and my parents weren’t helping me out that semester for NNU. I had a couple of scholarships, but it wasn’t enough to pay for the semester. I remember doing some heavy duty praying and constantly e-mailing my Financial Aide advisor. I finally was able to go in (school had let out early, and I’d made a point to get to school earlier so I could leave earlier) and Wes and I got to work. I sat there for a good 1 ½-2 hours. He came up with THREE different scholarships for me, and was able to get my drama scholarship increased by $1,000!!!!!!!!! I didn’t owe a single penny for that semester. It was truly phenomenal. I will never forget that time, because it was a miracle I witnessed and realized at the time—something that rarely occurs in one’s life. My parents had been freaking out, but for some reason I remained calm. God takes care of people; no one can tell me otherwise!

7. During my freshmen year of college, I made a lot of friends. There was a girl who’d moved onto our Morrison wing from a Ford wing mid-way through the year. I got to be her friend—not a great friend, but friends nonetheless. She was quirky; one thing I won’t forget. She had a pet guinea pig that the school let her keep. She had a leash for it and would “walk” it around the dorm. It was quite hilarious to witness. The more I got to know her, the more I realized how different we were. She was kind of wild. Did the drugs, did the alcohol, did the sneaking out of the dorm, or sneaking guys into the dorm thing. I didn’t, because I’m a perpetual goody two-shoes. But we became friends. I learned that she’d been moved to our wing because she was friends with our R.A., and this girl had issues—she’d run into the middle of the street next to the school trying to commit suicide was the rumor; she told me it was a reaction to her anti-depressants. Anyway, we would talk late into the night quite a bit. One night, she looked straight at me and said, “I wish I were more like you.” Huh? She was popular. At that time I wasn’t. She had a ton of friends, I was still very introverted around my classmates (until the end of the year when I said, “I want to change!”). Why did she want to be like me? I asked her, and was surprised at her response. “Because you see the person. You don’t look at the drugs, or whatever. You get to know them, and befriend them. You don’t judge me. You don’t seem to judge others. I want to be like you.” That shook me up and it made me very aware of myself and how I wanted to be.

The title comes from the song, "The Seven Deadly Virtues" from the musical Camelot. Hope you enjoyed it!

Traveling all around

2006-01-03T15:15:00.000-08:00

Well, I love SEATTLE!!!!!!!!!! Particularly when it takes me away from Carson City in truly nasty weather. Apparently I missed some serious flooding, mudslides, and major snowing. I came back just in time for more "warm" weather. Couldn't have planned it better if I tried!

Esther and I had a grand time living it up in Seattle and Tacoma. I've never been to that part of Washington (I think the one year I was in Northwesterners was the one time they didn't go!) and I love it. I love being that close to the ocean and artsy things and green and the mountains and the shopping and the wonderful bookstore Esther took me to and the range of food and . . . sigh.

So the rest of my vacation is shaping up. I have three tests tomorrow morning that should take about 4 1/2 hours I'm told. One on Saturday that should be about two hours. I've mostly cleaned my room (It's a matter of trekking over to the other side of the parking lot to the dumpster) and realized yet again that I truly need another bookshelf but have nowhere to put one at the present. Drat!

I'm determined that part of my New Year's resolution will involve more travelling this year. I love it too much to quit! And now I can afford it a little easier.

The title comes from the pre-Broadway tour of Thoroughly Modern Millie from the song "Stumbling". Happy New Year 2006!!!!!

Happy Almost New Year . . .

2005-12-28T17:58:00.000-08:00

Sooooooooo Christmas was wonderful. I mean it! It was probably the best one I've had in years. It was better than feeling lousy and playing games at my parents' house with just Janina. It beat driving over ten hours both ways to get to San Diego, sitting in the back seat and feeling like a seven year old again. Yes, it was wonderful! I spent Christmas Eve at my parents' home. We went to church on Christmas Eve as opposed to getting up early on Christmas morning. We drove around looking at lights after dinner at El Charro's (unfortunately the waitress who seems to enjoy not charging me for my food wasn't our server). We opened our gifts.

On Christmas, we opened our stockings. We lounged around, and then we had dinner in Carson at Uncle Jacque and Aunt Laurie's. MMMMMMMM!!!!!!!!! Good food; I'm glad I'm blessed enough to be surrounded by family members who can cook!

All in all, Christmas was relaxing. That's my favorite type. Especially since school got out on the 21st (but we don't go back until the 9th!), and it was relatively hectic! I have no grading though--HUZZAH! I have an eye appointment tomorrow. I'm signed up for the three computer Praxis exams next Wednesday. I have the English pedagogy Praxis on the 7th. I'm visiting Seattle from tomorrow until Jan. 2nd. Yay! I've never been there! I'll be visiting another NNUite, Esther! The one who told me once, "Lynette, you have the best table dancing hair I've ever seen!" Uh, thanks? It's on my list of weird compliments, which I seem prone to getting.

Oh! Last night I saw The Producers! I laughed harder than I think I ever have in the movie theater before. Oh my goodness--anyone at all interested in theatre should see it! Uma Thurman's singing left much to be desired, but other than that everyone was wonderful! So funny, so very, very funny . . .

I hope everyone else had a good Christmas, and will have a great New Year's. The title comes from the song, "Merry Almost-Christmas," from A Year With Frog and Toad. Janina did that this month, and it's adorable, at TMCC. She's going to be Little Becky Two-Shoes in Urinetown with them in March. I can't wait!!!!!!!!!!

Oh what a show!

2005-12-20T17:46:00.000-08:00

So . . . . our play was a smash hit!!!!!!! HUZZAH!!!!!!!!! It’s been 2 years since I’ve directed something, and I was nervous. And to direct kids is an incredible feat; I challenge anyone to try it without tearing hair out. No, in actuality, we had a great cast who got along fairly well. We had our backstage drama (like the kid who was Ralph putting safety pins through his lip, tongue, etc. and making our Gladys feel queasy the rest of the night), but it was relatively minor.

And we had mostly full audiences. Friday we had about five seats left, Sat. afternoon, I took one, Sat. evening, about three, and Sunday matinee none! Sunday was the true miracle because we had a snowstorm and honestly considered canceling the show. I’m so glad we didn’t.

We had a great response from every audience, too. I mean GREAT!!!!!!!! Jessica and her family came from Kansas, and we were able to put Leigha (my 5 year old niece) into the show on Sat. night—she was so excited. She kept meeting people in the cast and saying, “I’m the new baby angel!” Anyway, back on track, I’ve done this show A LOT!!!!!! Our church in California did it every five years. When I was 13 our church did it AND my school did it; within a week of each other. Many of us were in both productions. So I’ve been in the show three times, and I’ve directed a scene from it before, too. You’d think I’d be sick of a play that I memorized 12 years ago and haven’t forgotten, but nope!

My dad was so funny. He told me that when he heard I was directing this, he thought, “Man, I have to see it again?” He told me when it was over that it was very funny and he enjoyed it. The thing is my dad will encourage me and support me all the time. But if he came up and said, “Good job kiddo!” that’s all I would have expected from him. The fact that he said it was funny and he enjoyed it was a true compliment.

And so now, since I’m feeling nostalgic about it, here are some highlights that I loved:

~Lissa Baker. Period. We threw her in as a nurse, and then asked her to play an angel during the “pageant” so she could help the kids we had sign “Silent Night” during the “pageant”. She stepped in as a fireperson, too. Every time she was onstage, I was cracking up. As the nurse, begging Mrs. Armstrong to take the pill and finally popping it herself, to being the fireperson saying, “Don’t worry; we’re professionals,” to her singing off-key and loud for the pageant! Thank you Lissa.

~Mikayla running up and hugging us with such enthusiasm all the time, and always remembering her lines—not everyone can do that at 6!

~Tessa and Emily for watching Mikayla and Charlie backstage, and for being so funny with their “twinness” and “crushes on Charlie (the character, not the 5 year old)”.

~My niece for being so dang cute and singing “Silent Night” with “Round young merciful and child,” instead of the actual lyrics. She was also very good backstage I heard.

~All the kids and adults for having fun with their characters and doing a good job at them.

~Dave Anderson for playing for the “pageant”.

~Ashlee never missing a line or cue, nor complaining about walking even though she had knee surgery in October—that girl was determined to do a good job, and she did! I also loved her line, “And arriving from the East, like my uncle from New Jersey, the wisemen . . .”

~Warren for being the “Hip Christian Father” and going all out for it. Leoney and Liz laughed when he walked onstage in his Christmas sweaters and khakis—It’s the first time I’ve seen him genuinely wear things like that. He’s the king of black pants, a Batman t-shirt, and a black vest. Yay Warren!

~Stephanie for doing the show even though it wasn’t up her alley.

Thank you cast, I love you!

The title comes from Evita from the song, "Oh What a Circus!"

You'll fall asleep, counting your blessings!

2005-12-08T15:30:00.000-08:00

Sorry, I guess I haven't felt much like writing. Plus I lacked the time. Plus my internet connection sucks!!!! Plus I didn't want to whine; which is probably what I would've been doing.

So, for a quick update (the icky stuff):
~I couldn't take the Nevada Constitution test on the day offered for $15, because I was on Vicodin. I didn't trust myself to drive it or to take it under the influence. Dumb absessed tooth!!!
~So now I have to take it for $65 instead (blech).
~My Praxis test started at 2:15 on Nov. 19. Our only Saturday Matinee was at 2:00 on the same day, and I found out a week and a half in advance. So,
~Our director asked her daughter to do it. Maria agreed, IF she could have another performance, too.
~I had to give up Friday the 18! :( I've never had to do this before, so I was more than a little upset by it, but I couldn't do anything else.
~The financial backers for The Best Christmas Pageant Ever decided they didn't like some things (easily fixable and minor in my eyes), so they backed out and we weren't sure we could put it on! Luckily, Chris and I were able to talk John (the Executive Director of the BAC) into it. Phew! It would have been awful, but having to tell 20 or so kids that all their work was in vain was my personal idea of Hell on earth. Can you imagine the looks? How crushed they'd be? I get shivers thinking of it. Forget about the work I've done, it would be murder on them, and some of them may never want to try it again!
~The kids at school have had a real turnaround for the worse at school. I am so exhausted/drained/etc. every day. I'm so glad I have other things to keep me going!

That's it in a short blip. These things all happened in less than a month. It felt like getting slammed from every direction. I'm recovering. Thank God for prayer, tears for stress relief, good friends, family, movies, music, and books! These pulled me through!

And now it's all about the Spice Chai, Christmas music, and warming devices! Speaking of which, I'm cold! I hope all of you are doing very well with a wonderfully relaxing break just around the corner!

The title is from Irving Berlin's "Count Your Blessings" song. I love it when Bing Crosby sings it to Rosemary Clooney in White Christmas. It's a happy thing!

The future wasn't bright.

2005-11-17T18:14:00.000-08:00

Sorry, once again, I'm sorry!!! It's not that I don't want to update, I promise. No, I just can't at work, and my internet at home is doing this ridiculously slow and never quite right thing. Gah!

Have you ever had a bad day? Have you ever had a bad day that turned into a week? Have you ever had a bad week turn into three? This isn't my first time, but it has been awhile. I've just had a lot of stressfull little things to deal with a lot lately, as well as some pretty big things coming my way since THE TOOTH!!!! Oi vey. Job stuff, friend stuff, financial stuff, theatre stuff, church stuff; you name it, I think I'm going through it.

But, there are positive things as well. Like my five year old niece Leigha, who's in her first play! The Missoula Children's Theatre is out in Kansas this week, and Leigha's one of the 40 some who made the show out of the 100+ kids there. That's my 5 year old niece for you! She got on the phone to tell me, "Aunt Lynette, I'm in a play and I'm a SKUNK!!!!!!!!" Those people have no idea what they're in for! She'll be great!

And then there's one of the 400 Kaitlyns in Fiddler with me. She asked me to answer some questions about Feminism for her (my opinion) for an English paper she's writing. It was fun! I wrote it out today. I think there were 10 questions, not necessarily long answers, but I took 5 pages to tell her what my thoughts were. I miss that intellectual stimulation I had in college. I should take classes just to keep my brain in gear for when I finally make it to grad school. Plus, I imagine the stress would be off if I could only do one class at a time.

And I saw Noises Off at UNR last night. I love that play! Hana was Brooke, the ditz, and Kirk was Freddy. They were both great! My advice to all readers: WATCH THE MOVIE OR THE PLAY ASAP!!!!!!!!! Even if you're not in theatre, it's about the funniest thing written. It's by Michael Frayn.

I chose the lyrics from the song "Good Morning," which is most famously used in Singing in the Rain. I keep hoping it is. The future I mean; I hope it's bright. Right now I could really use it.

You'll be a dentist!

2005-11-03T12:07:00.000-08:00

Sorry I haven't updated in awhile. I've incredibly busy and in considerable pain. Ugh. It's not my favorite feeling in the world, to be sure. Well, here it goes:

Disneyland was a blast. I would suggest to everyone that if you can get there this year, GO!!!!!!!! As always, DCA and Disneyland were fun. However, since it's the 50th year, it's really fun. They are selling golden Mickey ears. The castle is cool (I'll try to post my picture of it later). The Parade of Dreams was fun--Julie Andrews was the narrator for it. The fireworks were AMAZING!!!!!!!!! I've never been a big one for fireworks, but I'm glad I didn't miss these!

So we open on Saturday for Fiddler. And the pain I referred to earlier can actually pose a problem for then. Last weekend my face grew--on the same side and much the same way as it did when Weston punched my chin during BATB in May. Since Friday was the day Nevada Day was observed, I spent it with my family. My face was growing, and we thought it may be an absess (sp?) tooth.

I called my parents' dentist over the weekend and left a message. I've not been to a dentist in at least 5 years! My teeth are in horrendous condition. I was so nervous, for some reason dentists freak me out more than just about anything! I hadn't gone before because I had no good dental insurance through CCS (the beauty of a Christian school--no insurance). Now that I work in the Carson City School District, lucky me! I have benefits, so now I feel a little more at ease about going . . . but not much.

I couldn't get in until Tuesday. So I took off half a day on Tuesday to go. Yes, it was an absess tooth. No, the dentist could not do anything about it then, because it was so far gone. So she tried to get me into the oral surgeon on Tuesday as well. But he was busy. So, Dr. McElhany prescribed some penicillin for the infection, and I got an appointment for Wednesday.

I took yesterday off. When I learned that I wasn't getting in until the afternoon, I took Thursday and Friday off. I didn't know what painkillers I'd be on or anything.

The procedure yesterday took about 15 minutes . . . and they didn't have to do it through surgery!!! HUZZAH!!!!!!!!!!! It hurt like crazy, but hey, I've been through worse. I'm on vicodin. I hurt and feel a little icky. I can't drive because of the drowsy side effect.

People have been wonderful, and I was able to do okay at rehearsal last night. I was even able to adlib for people who weren't onstage! Go me.

So, that's what life is like at the moment. I'm exhausted and just got sick. I don't think I had anything substantial enough with my last vicodin. I wouldn't recommend it.

The title is from a song by the same title from Little Shop of Horrors.

Happiness is singing together when day is through, and happiness is those who sing with you!

2005-10-17T15:43:00.000-07:00

Life is good. School is good. Family is good. Friends are good. What more is there?

I'm getting to be at the end of the quarter/semester this week. My grades have to be in by Thursday. Why? 'Cause I'm going to Disneyland, and I'm staying with Kelsey and Halley. I love those two more than avacados. I'm sure they'd be flattered to know this, but it's true!!!!

I've also discovered a wonderful place to break my fast in the morning. I love the City Cafe' Bakery in Carson. Mmmm . . . good food and a relatively pleasant atmosphere. But, I've discovered that breakfast consisting of an apple croissant and their chai tea is about as close to heaven as one can get. MMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I had it this morning--it was well worth it! Come visit and I promise you a trip to this delicious place.

Caitlyn Papp and I are directing The Best Christmas Pageant Ever this December and we had auditions on Saturday morning. I am excited, for it shall be fun. We had a good group of people show up, too. Good times.

I am a happy camper. Yes indeedy, I am!

The lyrics come from "Happiness" from You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown.

I couldn't be happier

2005-10-08T12:48:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to post and declare to the world that Chris is about the nicest person in the world!!!!!!!!!!!!! He "owed" me a surprise (sometimes when we play games, we'll say, "Okay, if I win, you'll pay for a movie," or something. I owe him a ticket to see a show). I said it didn't have to be big, just something I'd like. It could have been anything; have a picnic, plan a fun day, a card he made, etc. I wasn't going to be picky. Just wanting a surprise.

I got it. Today. I'm still thrilled!!!!!!!

He got me something I've been drooling over for several months anytime I went to Borders in Carson (because why go to Borders in Reno? There's a Barnes and Noble, which I infinitely prefer!). Are you ready for this? Okay, here was my surprise: A complete set of an unabriged reading of The Chronicles of Narnia books--all 7 of them! Plus, they're read by amazing performers! Check this out: The Magician's Nephew performed by Kenneth Branaugh, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe performed by Michael York, The Horse and His Boy performed by Alex Jennings (who I saw as Professor Higgens in My Fair Lady in London and was AMAZING!!!!!!!!), Prince Caspian performed by Lynn Redgrave, The Voyage of the Dawn Treader performed by Derek Jacobi, The Silver Chair performed by Jeremy Northam, and The Last Battle performed by Patrick Stewart. I'M SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO EXCITED!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I began listening to The Magician's Nephew on my way to Dayton this morning, and am at the point about where Digory is about to follow Polly with the rings.

See why Chris is my favorite right now? I hope he got a good deal on them. I know that the cost is much cheaper than what it could be (it says so on the box), but I still hope he got a good deal on them.

Talk about a surprise! I like his surprises.

Oh, and if you're in the area, go see his production of The Last Five Years at the BAC. The music of this show is phenomenal (Even if you don't live around here, pick up a CD. Jason Robert Brown is such an incredible composer!). Yes this is a shameless plug, but I know the show's incredible, Andie and Josh are gifted, and Chris directed and produced it. Plus, it's helping to raise money for the BAC, so they can put on more great theatre, concerts, art exhibits, etc.

The title comes from the song "Thank Goodness" from Wicked.

The party's over . . .

2005-10-04T21:26:00.000-07:00

Well, CFY is over, and a heck of a lot of fun! I finally have a digital camera, folks! So, I've taken some pictures--not a ton, and certainly not all of my friends are in these pictures. I love you, cast!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! At some point, I hope to put them all in one post, but for now this will have to suffice! There are 13 pictures in all, and none of them come out as well on blogger as they do on the camera and my photo program on the computer. :( Enjoy them!

BTW, the title comes from the song "The Party's Over" from Bells are Ringing.

Josh is exhausted from tapping for 2 1/2 hours. We all deserved a break after the show!

2005-10-04T21:25:00.000-07:00

Chris hugs me after the show . . . and claims he's smiling! I beg to differ.

2005-10-04T21:24:00.000-07:00

Jessica is readying herself to be a stunning girl and dancer!

2005-10-04T21:23:00.000-07:00

Bubba loves the camera . . . and Avenue Q!!!

2005-10-04T21:22:00.000-07:00

Stephanie and I are all smiles after a fun show.

2005-10-04T21:21:00.000-07:00

Josh and I were going to enjoy a night on the town to Gershwin's Concerto in F.

2005-10-04T21:20:00.000-07:00

Uptown girls!

2005-10-04T21:19:00.000-07:00

Gonna slap that bass during "rehearsal" with the boys!

2005-10-04T21:18:00.000-07:00

I've Got Rhythm!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2005-10-04T21:08:00.000-07:00

Victoria (Lissa) and Vivian (me) love that Western scenery.