Another Op'nin, Another Show!

Yes, all my dear dedicated readers, the show has opened. My week has been insane.

I walked into school Monday with a lovely cold. Each day before school, we have either a meeting or devotions. I found Mr. Libby beforehand and declared, "I have the distinct feeling I will be sick on Friday." He seemed a tad amused by this foretelling of the future, probably because he had no idea I had this gift. I explained how I was already feeling miserable, and it was tech week. He simply responded, "Let me know on Thursday." Understanding principals are the greatest! I only had that one half of a sick day last year, so I feel fine about taking it.

Rehearsals have been interesting, to say the least. Since my cold kicked in, my natural tendency to not eat for lack of hunger has started. Well, I'm trying to eat, to keep my strength up. However, it seems that anytime I have more than a Saltine, I begin to feel quesy. And my cold seems to be dispersing, so I'm not sure what the deal is. Icky. Well, back to the rehearsals, I've felt gross every night. Lovely.

Our Opening Night was Friday. There were a couple of mishaps, as is to be expected. However, the worst thing ever happened! Stephanie had been given new blocking for the part where she falls over the wall into the moat. We were all to crowd around the door as she fell onto some of the mattresses. Yeah, it didn't happen. Somebody moved the mattresses, and she hit the stage. Hard. She continued with the show, though.

Last night, I talked to her beforehand. We've been swapping sick stories, since it's affecting both of us. Apparently, her pain has been incessant and everything hurts. She wasn't sure she could sing loud! What would happen to "Shy?" "Happily Ever After?" How was she supposed to dance "The Spanish Panic?" I did some serious praying for the girl. Guess what? I've never seen her do any of the show better than last night! What a pro!

My insomnia has caught up with me. Wonderful. Why can't I be normal in any way????? So, I've decided to work on my grading. After all, I only accomplished 4 1/2 papers by Thursday. I worked all day Friday on grading. I worked yesterday on grading and creating two literature tests. If I work diligently, perhaps I will finish what I have now! One can hope, anyway!

The title is taken from the song from Kiss Me Kate. Fun number, but (much in the style of Cole Porter), too long and too repetetive. I don't think the guy knew when to stop after he had a hit! At least, with his catchy numbers anyway.

What do you do with a B.A. in English?

Hello all!

I want to devote this entry to Stephanie Dixon. She is doing a great job as our Princess Winnifred. I've enjoyed getting to know her a lot. But best of all, she burned me a copy of the Avenue Q CD!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Not only am I thrilled to finally have a copy, but I've needed something else to listen to.

I've been listening to Mattress practically incessantly in my car so I can practice my chorus parts! Ick. I've memorized not only the songs, but I know that I must pay attention to track 3, 6, 9, 11, 13, and 21. Ack! It's a mad disease which is threatening to consume my entire being! I am decidedly annoyed with the music now. It plays in my dreams. The music worms its way into my head during teaching (though how it manages to work with The Iliad I long to know). The music is my new and unwelcomed stalker! I just keep reminding myself, "In 7 days we open. In 16 days we close. You can do it!" As a cast, we are quickly infecting each other with illnesses and comparing exhaustion stories. Needless to say, it's not the most upbeat cast I've been in. Brittany reduced herself to entertaining with a sock hand puppet which is nothing more than a white sock. No face like decorations. No character whatsoever. Just a sock. That's the deep end I feel like I am rapidly approaching. It is still fun, but I've liked Carousel more since the start, so I am quite eager to be completely focus on that one!

For those of you who are Christians, have you ever felt like God was trying to tell you something by bombarding you with a particular scripture? For some reason, I feel like this about a couple of encounters with the scripture. It's all dealing with the body of Christ. Our place. Our spiritual gifts. Not longing to be something else. I don't quite know why I'm getting this. Just something that's popped up a few times in the last week. I try to pay attention when these things occur, but I'm certain I'm one of the most daft when it comes to picking up on things God tries to clue me in on. Just thought I'd mention it.

The title is a songtitle from Avenue Q. I thought it was funny, and oh so true! :) I'm proud of that degree of mine! Too bad I couldn't be as idealistic with my second degree; nope, I had to be a marketable sell out! So, I'll leave you to ponder just what it is you do with a B.A. in English!

Sillohetted by the blue . . .

Esther left last night, as did another fellow NNU alumnus, Kari Bray. Esther and I had fun in Virginia City. I finally went into the "Castle" (a.k.a. the Victorian Mansion). Awesome! Oh, and I also did another first up there--I gambled for the first time ever! I mean, not "I'll match your starburst, and raise you a snickers," like we cousins used to do while playing Poker at the family reunions. Gosh I miss those days! Anyway, I used the legitimate slot machines in the Bucket of Blood Saloon in V.C.

We had Coldstone after church on Saturday with my parents and Nina. Oh, and about 7 of my students! I was literally attacked! It was funny. They met my parents and made themselves at home at our table. Once they learned that Mr. Jordan was at my mom's school, they flipped!

On Monday, I went up to Tahoe to spend the day with Kari and Esther (who were camping). I went kayaking for the first time ever! It was a ball. I always forget how much the lake has to offer. It was warm and wonderful. I'd like to go again. Perhaps Parasailing and jet skiing is not to far behind.

We are finally in the theatre for rehearsals of Once Upon a Matress. I'm only about a ten minute walk from home now--Yipee! Tons of fun. I showed Stephanie and Hanna pictures that my 11th and 12th graders drew for The Iliad (they're hysterical). Helen is a complete tramp (starting the entire Trojan War by leaving her husband for Prince Paris and all) in the picture! :) I called Hanna "slutty Helen" after something she did, and Chris (Dauntless) looked stunned! I had to therefore go back and explain. His expression was priceless!

School is going well. The 10th graders are in love with the play Medea as I knew they would be. Hah! I made them like school! I made them like my English class! Got 'em, huh? Skepticism should not be so prominent when a teachers promises "You'll love this play!" After all, I know these kids. I wouldn't choose something that I found boring.

The title, what you've all been waiting for, huh? It comes from a song called "Our Children" from the wonderful Ragtime. It reminded me of my lovely kayaking experience.

Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart

I must admit; I worry a LOT about my new 8th grade class. I don't think I've ever seen a more chatty class before. Seriously! Last year was tough with them, since they were a 7/8 combo. One of the 8th grade girls has admitted to me that she wishes the class was still a 7/8 combo! Does she not see the disastrous effect this would have on the class as a whole? Apparently not. This is the only class I've actually had to raise my voice with, assign extra homework to a selected few, have a seating chart, or hold after class--IT'S ONLY THE FIRST WEEK!!!!!!!!!!! What is with them????????? I do like them, but they're harder for me than my bloodthirsty 10th graders (seriously, when drawing characters from Medea today, one of them drew Glauce dying a bloody death which happened to also expose her intestines! I don't THINK so!), and that's saying something!

I got a brochure today from one of the places where I think I'd like to go to grad school. This is a program in alliance with the Denver Center for the Performing Arts. I highly doubt I'll ever be accepted, seeing how only 8 students a year are. I can dream though, right? This school offers an MFA in Theatre Arts. They focus more on the classical training of a performer. Each of the class requirements sound fascinating to me, particularly the one where you watch plays on film. HELLO! I love that! I own two copies of Hugh Jackmen's Oklahoma (I believe to be the definitive version), Pirates of Penzance, Kiss Me Kate (the one we saw in London, Dev! Same people and everything!), Crazy for You, Romeo and Juliet (set in the 1920's, with Meagan Follows!), The Taming of the Shrew, Crazy for You, and Charley's Aunt. I would love to add more to this growing collection. Ooh! This school also offers a three year, full ride scholarship and living stipend for all of its students! And the final drool-worthy detail, at the end of the three years, I would get my Actor's Equity Card! How perfect is this?

I've become very intrigued in the way of Carousel and where it is going now. Bob separates people by ages and then groups them accordingly. I have five daughters! Amanda, Julie, Katie, Jackie and Taner. They change depending on the scene. They range from 8-15. I feel like Mrs. Bennett (though, I hope, far more sensible)! This is particularly funny to me, considering I now have a part with a name in the show. I'm playing Arminy, who has only been married a year! Clearly, I've been a little busy since the age of 8, myself! :)

ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International) will be having our area's convention the weekend after Mattress. It's in Sacramento. Guess what? Hairspray will be playing that same week there! I could not convince Mr. Libby that it was a worthy teacher outing, so I must pay for my own ticket. I guess it was worth a shot, right? I'm stoked!

Esther is coming the day after tomorrow! Woo-Hoo!

I really really really hope that on Big Brother 5, Drew steps into his position as one who will not back down from his own true feelings. I think that Diane needs to leave! She's far to manipulative and I hate that she really has all the power in the house. She kind of controls everybody and it's sickening. I don't think Drew will eliminate her, but I'm hoping so.

Congrats to Nina--She is the Duchess in UNR's Gondoliers. It's not one of their operas with which I am familiar, but I like all that I've seen (Pirates, The Mikado, HMS Pinafore, Patience). She gets to be a snob which should be a great deal of fun.

Congrats to Devon--your apartment sounds great! When do you start school again?

These lyrics are taken from one of the most beautiful songs that Rodgers and Hammerstein wrote, "You'll Never Walk Alone." It was sung at my 8th grade graduation, at the time my adoration of Carousel really peaked. I know I might sound a bit batty, but I feel it is a true honor to be singing it with the rest of the cast in the show. I love the message of the song. I love the music of the song. I love the harmony in the song. I don't think I'll get tired of it. When we're doing it for real, I wonder if I'll be able to keep the tears from escaping my eyes. Gorgeous!

It's a maze this garden, it's a maze of ways . . .

School begins on Tuesday. The question is: will my classrooms be ready? In the style of Mr. Collins from the A&E film of Pride and Prejudice "I say classrooms, for there are a couple." No, I will not launch my writing to brag about a fireplace which cost 800 pounds, shelves in a closet (happy thought indeed), or anything else to praise Lady Catherine DeBourgh.

They had to really change things around this year. All of the high school classes, with the exception of Sciences, are to be held in the church. The new history teacher and I share both the church classroom and my own. She will also be teaching Bible in the Science classroom! I think it'll be okay, just a little odd at first.

I'm completely thrilled at beginning with The Iliad, Medea, Antigone, and The Odyssey for the high school classes. And I do mean thrilled! I'm a tad nervous, since I've never taught them before, but I think it'll be great. They are interesting enough that if they are taught correctly, I think my students will like them as well. YEAH!

Rehearsals for both shows continue on and are fun. I've been working hard on my Alto harmony for Carousel, since I've never done that show before. Plus, it's just more fun to sing that harmony. Last night, the acid test was given, and I think I passed it! Bob had each of us blocked for the the last scene, the graduation ceremony. I'm sitting in the front row with Maria (Julie), Nanette (Nettie), and Taner (who is supposedly my 13 yr old daughter in that scene!). Both Nanette and Maria have very beautiful, strong, almost operatic soprano voices. As we were going through it, I was attempting to concentrate on my harmony (and sing it as loud as possible since we are the minority), Nanette turned and told me I had a beautiful singing voice! YEAH!

I'm loving the people I'm meeting, and having an all around great time. I wonder how it is that people cannot enjoy doing theatre? We're almost always labled "strange" and such, but it's so much fun! We need more guys in both shows, but particularly Carousel. I know it may not be ethical, but I keep thinking it would be amusing to tell all of my high school boys that the grade earned will reflect whether or not they joined the cast. I know I won't, but it would be funny.

This post's title is both representing the quest to make it to my classroom (prepared) for my classes, and how I feel from running everywhere this week. It's been insane, and I haven't felt completely 100% healthy as a result. However, almost everything has now been accomplished and it's ready to go. These lyrics are from the very awesome musical The Secret Garden. It's high on my lists of things to see. I adore the music in it, so it's one of my favorites not yet seen. If you get a chance to see it or hear it, please do! It will not be something you'll regret!

My melody de Paris!

Yesterday, an unusual and lovely thing happened. I found Paris; in the guise of Sacramento! Who knew??????? My mom and I had tickets, as you know, for The Scarlet Pimpernel. This was only part of the French day.

We left early. I had spent the night in Dayton, in Janina's room, since she has since moved back into Manzanita Hall for her sophomore year (and may I just add the largest dorm room I have ever seen in my lifetime!). We stopped by my apartment to drop off my car, and so I could run in and grab my binnoculars. I knew we were sitting in row U, and I'd never been to this theatre. Plus, I cannot afford to get new contacts until I start getting my paychecks from CCS. Therefore, I have reverted back to wearing my glasses from college, which are also a couple of perscriptions old. Wonderful. Anyway, after my apartment, we had to go to Manzanita Hall to give some software to Janina since her computer has crashed. ***Kelsey and Halley--I think you should call her. She could really use some cheering up and support right now.***

We officially began our trip to the California State capitol from the Nevada State Capitol (if you begin where we left my apartment that is) after seeing Nina. We talked the whole way. I love spending time with my mom when it is just the two of us. I hope everyone can reach that point someday, because it is such an awesome thing.

We found the theatre with great ease. We checked out the parking structure right across the street, but thought we might be able to do better. We looked at the parking meters, but eventually found a parking structure where we could park for a $6 flat rate. It was under the Bank of Lodi and next door to the theatre where I saw Thoroughly Modern Millie. We went into the bank in order to use the rest room. We were told by the parking attendant that there would be a guard who could direct us. After going in the elevator up to the bank, we saw no one. We searched and found the bathroom. When leaving, my mom was about to head out the door. I mentioned that since we were possibly the only two people in the bank, we might set off an alarm. Luckily, I spotted three well-dressed people who approached the door and unlocked it with their ID cards! We exited through that door.

We wandered around a bit, and discovered a place called The Melting Pot, a fondue resturant. It didn't open until 4 pm. So, we continued to search for a place to eat lunch. We decided to go to The Melting Pot after the show. We stumbled across a place called Cafe La Bou. It didn't look French inside, but it did look promising. We both had a Spinich Citrus Salad and Frazo Iced Tea Freeze. MMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Both were delicious!!!!!!!! Apparently it's a chain in California, so do try to come across it if you can!

We walked around a bit, and found a wedding which was about to begin in the rose garden of the park where the State Capitol Building is. It looked lavish. A stringed quartet and harpist were entertaining the guests. Everyone was dressed to the nines, moreso than I was used to; even for a wedding. The flower girl was wearing her lavendar dress--which had irridescent wings on the back. I don't know if this fully describes how adorable it was, but trust me, it was charming. We visited the Vietnam Memorial which was there. They had several scenes with men representing various things. My mom saw one and stopped. "He looks like Will. He looks just like Will does, Lynette." Will is my cousin fighting in Iraq.

We walked back to the theatre, and on the way passed the bride sitting in a horse drawn carriage. I wished I could have been at that wedding, since it looked so beautiful. I wondered how many strings had to get pulled in order to have the wedding there.

The show was awesome!!!!!!!!! It was my first experience at a theatre in the round. The set was very simple. The guillotine was set up in the aisle when needed. My favorite scene was where Percy came into the garden where Chauvelin and Marguerite were talking. Brad Little played Percy, and he was such a great fop! I was dying! "How you do creep up on a person! You should wear a bell around your neck. We'll make it black!" Hysterical. By far, the funniest song was "The Creation of Man." With their scarves, walking sticks and outrageous outfits how could it not be? I still loved "The Riddle" the most, though. I think it perfectly sums up each character and where they are at that point in the story. It was funny to me that I could hum most of the songs, yet I couldn't sing the words if I'd wanted to. I didn't realize how much Wildhorn revamped the show when he did.

During the intermission, my mom called The Melting Pot to make reservations for us. Apparently they were booked until 9 pm, but told my mom since it was just the two of us, it would be okay. We had a Yin-Yang (dark and white chocolate) fondue. MMM! It was good! It reminded me of going to the Mona Lisa in Nampa the two times that I did. Fondue is fun and extraordinarily yummy. I had a good time.

And that, my friends was the end of my day of Paris in Sacramento. We came home. My mom should really listen to me when I offer driving directions, because every time we got lost, I was right. However, it didn't take us forever to get back on track, so my frustration didn't rise as much as it would have otherwise. I watched some of the Olympics with Kristen. I wanted to watch some of the new Pride and Prejudice with her, but I couldn't keep my eyes open. I hadn't slept really the night before, so I crashed.

Did you guess the title? It is a little bit harder, since it is not a big musical like many of the others I've used. This is from the song "Melody de Paris" in Phantom, the Maury Yeston version. I was in it in high school, it was fun. Maury Yeston also wrote the musicals Titanic, Nine, and Grand Hotel. Good stuff!

They seek him here, they seek him there . . .

YEAH!!!!!!!!! Tomorrow is my one and only true "vacation" of the summer! I got the day off at work, and my mom and I are heading down to Sacramento for the day. Why? Why to seek for the Scarlet Pimpernel, of course! The musical is playing at Music Circus of Sacramento, and we've had tickets since the beginning of the summer. I love Frank Wildhorn's music, yet have never seen any of his shows. This will be my first. :)

Teacher orientation begins on Monday. It looks like Mrs. Merritt (one of our kindergarten teachers) , Mr. Squires (5th grade) and I are the only full-time teaching alumni to return. Wow! I'm excited, though. Mr. Libby's daughter, Ann, will be with us. Let me just say how much fun that girl is! Kristen always says that I remind her of Ann (this being before I met the girl). She is funny, loves musicals, the Rat Pack, reading (majored in Theatre, minored in English, just the opposite of me!), music, and is a redhead! It'll be a blast to teach with her in the upper grades as well!

I'm sad to state that I will not be able to attend any of the Tahoe Shakespeare's productions of Much Ado About Nothing, or As You Like It! Living life on so little money does not allow me to do many of the things I love and long to do. However, I'm budgeting my money so as to make grad school more of a reality in the near future. I think the sacrifice will be worth it.

Oh, and "Go USA!" I love the Olympics! They're so dramatic and entertaining. I've been enthralled, as usual, with the whole ordeal. In Carousel, I have a little girl named Amanda who plays my daughter in the beginning, during "The Carousel Waltz." While we've been rehearsing, she mentioned to me that she had a friend who is in the show, but on vacation. Amanda said "Lynette, when she gets back from Greece, can she be my sister?" I replied, "As long as she tells me all about the Olympics, yes." I believe that Amanda thought I was joking. I remember how much fun I had going to the SLC Olympics during my senior year, and truly wish I had the money to spend in order to go to these. I mean, I got to see the very drunk/happy Hockey team singing "Oh Canada!" after a win, eat at the same time and Wendy's as the German Hockey team, meet Todd Eldredge, stand and cheer with at least 150 other Americans watching one of our teams win a gold, and so much more. It was incredible!

Anyway, I'll let you all know what I think of (to quote more of the song) "That demned, illusive, Pimpernel!" after I've seen it.

Follow your heart

Well Tiff and I had a good time when she was up here. I took her to see Virginia City, and Kristen and I took her to see The Princess Diaries 2. Thoroughly enjoyable film. Fluff, nothing like the books, but still fun. It would've been nice if she could have stayed longer. She seemed to really enjoy this country we call Nevada. We even both took our first old time photograph. Refined ladies in the bar holding a parasol and liquor (me), and a fan and a revolver (Tiffany).

Rehearsals have begun for both shows. I think I'm going to adore these experiences if they continue as the initial week has. I feel very fresh and completely alive when I'm there. Theatre breathes into me a spirit which allows me to feel more independent and free. I don't know that I can fully explain what it does to me, for words do not feel sufficient.

I'm very excited to start school again. I loved teaching more than I thought, and I miss my students. It will feel great to be back in my classroom.

This title is a phrase in the song "Follow Your Heart," from Urinetown. I suppose in a small way, I feel like I am. It feels . . . right. Liberating. Fun.

Oh, and a happy 25th birthday congrats to Kristen and 24th birthday to Esther. I gave Kristen a Glenbrooke basket, which is a series written by Robin Jones Gunn. Fun to read, though it lacks the challenge I usually select when picking my literature. I need a break every now and then and settle solely on fun.

Because I was afraid to speak when I was just a lad . . .

Just pondering on something . . . Kristen has turned me onto (yes, I'm admitting it publicly, with little shame) the reality show Big Brother 5. How sad am I? At any rate, I was dying on Saturday night when I watched the episode. First off--kudos to Nakomis! She did the smartest nomination as the HOH that I've yet seen. Good for her! Playing the game intelligently is so rarely seen.

What I was laughing at was Michael not being able to speak. What they showed was so funny to me! The fact that he tried approximately 45 times to say "Maclintock" (the John Wayne movie) and never could, and later said "Lonesome Dove" was his favorite movie. How funny!

Which got me thinking: what do I say wrong? The word reprise is something I never say correctly. I always say "repreese" as opposed to reprise. Why do I do this? The spelling should tell me something. Another word which I always have to consciously think of as I'm saying is the word chipmunk. When I was a little girl, I always said "chickmunk." I didn't realize this until someone pointed it out to me in about Junior High. If I'm not thinking of the right pronounciation, I definitely say it incorrectly. I suppose we each have our idiosyncrasies. Mine do amuse me.

Tiffany Brush is coming out to visit this week! In early September, Esther Heath may be coming for a visit. Huzzah for wonderful friends!

I'm as busy as a spider spinning daydreams . . .

First things first: I must send special wishes to both my friend Devon and my cousin Jennifer. Devon is now 22 (as of the 31st). HAPPY BIRTHDAY DEV!! I sent a card to your NNU mailbox, since I didn't have your address as of late. I figured they would forward it to wherever you are, so it should be coming soon. My cousin Jennifer recently had her first baby (on the 29th) named Kayla Bethany. I don't know if she knows, but my very first best friend (being 2 at the time) was named Kayla. We're still friends today! Anyway, Jennifer and Kayla are apparently doing very well, and my Brown grandparents have 3 sons, 6 grandaughters, 1 grandson, and 3 great-grandaughters. Hee hee!

So, in regards to this title, I've never seen a spider spin a daydream, as (I'm sure) not many other people have. However, if a spider were to spin a daydream, would it be busy? Well, if I were a spider (yes, this is an abstract stretch, but bear with me here), I imagine these daydreams would be magnificent webs of imagination in no time. I am a self-professed expert daydreamer. If it were an Olympic event, I would certainly be a strong contender for the gold! Back to the point: I'm very busy this week.

I'm actually very excited about this week, as well. Hilltop Community Church (where I faithfully attend because it is very relaxed and stimulating--a wonderful combination of qualities) is having its VBS. I'm helping with the Drama all week. Woo-hoo!

My very first rehearsal for both shows is this week. Let me get a tad sidetracked and just announce to the world that I could live for rehearsals and performing! I am INFATUATED with both of these brilliant uses of time. To the point where once (in middle school) I had an argument with my parents as I often did in those days. It escalated to such a point to where my parents decided to punish me . . . by grounding me for one rehearsal! I was livid! It certainly didn't help that my sister Jessica (who was also in the show) was the one to tell our director why I wasn't present. Apparently, she told him that I couldn't come because of "Family Matters." The whole cast heard, and everyone assumed that I had stayed home to watch that utterly pathetic sitcom! So, she had to further explain. Now, I'm not sure why Chris (the director of the show) had thought that, seeing as I had already been in a show under his direction. He knew I was dedicated to the show and would not skip a chance to rehearse in order to watch any show, let alone a really insipid one! I also have a costume fitting for both shows tomorrow! :)

Some time this week, I need to go talk to Mr. Libby, our principal. While at work, parents of some of my students have reported to me that Mr. Jordan is not returning as planned. I'm more than a little upset about that. This will mean, that not only will I not be able to work with my favorite teacher in the upper grades--the one who (I felt) was my strongest mentor this past year, but I will be the only full-time teacher returning to the upper grades! ACK! I truly hope this doesn't mean that I will be the equivelent of Department Head or something. I don't feel ready for that, nor do I think I will have the sufficient time! I suppose I shouldn't worry about that until the time approaches, but being as busy as a spider spinning daydreams, do I have much choice? Worrying does make a person feel infinitely more stressed and busy.

So, I shall hopefully be able to fall asleep now. I couldn't earlier, and I really don't have much more time to sleep. If not, I'll just read some more from Wicked, which I'm really enjoying. Work is crazy (but I get an extra dollar an hour on Sundays, so that is fine with me), so this just adds to my well stocked log of obligations this week.

Oh, and the title is a lyric from yet another Rodgers and Hammerstein song. It is titled "It Might as Well Be Spring" from State Fair. This was the only one that was a movie first and then a stage show (in the early 1990s. It flopped despite having an amazing cast and the Rodgers and Hammerstein tag attatched to it). This song won them their first Academy Award for best song.

No one mourns the Wicked!

Now I must take a moment to thoughtfully appreciate the blessed inventions which are known to the masses as gift cards, but to myself, a golden token of beauty (or, as in the Fandango commercial which never fails to strike me as most amusing--"My happiness is a golden poem!"  "I'll get the popcorn.").  Shouts of appreciation must be blared to my lovely aunt and uncle (Jacque and Laurie) and to my wonderful student, Brianna Smith!  Yes, to many Smiths to thank, so little time . . .

Brianna gave me a gift card to Target on the last day of school, of which I was more than infinitely fond of.  I pored over the store one afternoon in the wee days of summer--prior to attaining summer employment.   I found a pair of sunglasses which I loved and reminded me of Audrey Hepburn.  This correlation instantly tugged at my heart, and I decided I must own them.  However I still had money left on my card.  So today, more than a month later, I made my second and final purchase on this card.  I am now the smitten owner of the De-Lovely soundtrack.  It is fun to listen to, and (for the most part) I was mildly surpised at how well the pop stars of today could sing these hits of yore.

I then traversed to Borders.  Jacque and Laurie gave me a gift card for house sitting for them.  I bought the book Wicked, which I have not yet read.  I'm completely thrilled about the prospect of indulging in this novel; particularly since I am now obsessed with the musical!  Kristin Chenowith is awesome as Galinda/Glinda (though she is no longer playing the role on Broadway.  Don't be sad, Kelsey!  She has been replaced by Jennifer Laura Thompson--the original Broadway Hope Cladwell!  Go Urinetown!).  Idina Menzel is one of my new favorites as Elphaba, my newest coveted role.  This is claiming a lot, since any exposed epidermus must be covered with green make up! ICK!

I had some money left on that card.  What did I do?  I purchased the DVD of the 1980 Broadway staging of The Pirates of Penzance!  OH YEAH!  Kevin Kline, Linda Rondstadt, Patricia Routledge and the fabulous Rex Smith.  The movie that Johanna Hamilton and I howled at in the days of NNU of this staging (replacing Routledge with Angela Lansbury) is not yet out on DVD.  I like my version, but since it's on an actual stage, the filming does some strange things.  Still hysterical, though.  What is my obsession with Pirates?  I love them all! In Peter Pan, Pirates of the Caribean, Pirates of Penzance, etc.  Somewhat like my obsession with Vikings ever since Dr. Marshman's World History class my freshmen year.  I must need therapy.

The title clearly is the threaded theme throughout (how's that for a brief string of alliteration?) this post.  Cole Porter wrote some "wicked" music (yes, I have Boston on the brain ever since I've begun to look into Grad schools), and performed some truly atrocious acts of self indulgence.  The Wicked Witch of the West and her story.  The "wicked" reputation of any and all pirates, even the ones who let orphans go free!  :)

No one mourns the Wicked!  (Thank you to Stephen Schwartz, the composer and lyricist of this awesome new musical!)

Fare thee well.

Well did you evah? What a swell party this is!

Hello those outside of Carson City! As I am a newspaper hog at work during my break (I'm starving for something to read during those precious 15 minutes and don't have anywhere to put my books while working!), I have become much more aware of what's been going on with the fire. Apparently, over 8,000 acres burned, and the fire became contained around 6 pm on Tuesday night.

So, just to prove how ridiculous the Americans can be, I want to share something with you all. I read that on Tuesday, around noon, there is going to be a local gathering to show Carson's appreciation for all those who worked on stopping the fire. Yes, at the lawn of the Capital building there is to be (I couldn't believe it) a BARBEQUE!!!!!!!!!!!! How sick are the pople around here? I'm not sure who gave birth to the "brilliant" idea, but clearly the irony escaped their notice.

Oh, congratulations are to be extended to Chris and Stephanie Tiner. The two recently gave birth to a girl--Kadee Joy Tiner. She is named after her aunt Kadee, and (I believe) Joy Lindner. However, Kara Lyons was convinced that Joy was for her! :) Okay, maybe not, but she did not fail to notice the Joy connection.

So, the title comes from a song called "Well Did You Evah?" by Cole Porter. This song was used in the musical "Dubarry Was a Lady," which starred Jimmy Durante and Ethel Merman. Fun fact: The agents got into an argument over who should get the top billing at the theatre. The producers came up with a solution that had never and has not since been used. The criss crossed the names above the title on the marquee. The things you learn! Anyway, it was also used in the movie "High Society" and sung by the "drunk" Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby. The song is hilarious. I must admit, I was inspired after seeing the movie De-Lovely this evening. The theater was filled with older people and myself, but I had a grand time and frequently had to stifle my urges to sing along--especially with the songs from "Anything Goes." At the end of the movie, I did sing along with "It's De-Lovely" from "Red, Hot and Blue" which was later put in the version of "Anything Goes" which I was in 9 years ago. I used this title in reference to the Carson City and the fabulous idea of the barbeque!

On a clear day, you can see forever . . .

Things are much better out here in our significantly darker part of Nevada. It was so smoky that my roommate literally could not stay here for more than about 15 minutes to about an hour. Kristen developed a heart condition in junior high, and she could not breathe without severe difficulty.

I drove home one night and was mesmerized by the sight that met my eye. The time was about 10:30 pm and pitch black. There are hills that normally one cannot see during the night were sillouheted by a line of a bright red, orange, yellow brightness. I had a tough time driving home that night. I was torn between the horrific reality of what this light really was, and the sheer beauty of what I was seeing. At any rate, it was not the easiest thing to concentrate on the memorized road home. During the day, it was easier to watch the road, because the billowing masses of smoke. When I was out of my car, I kept seeing the flakes of ash meander through the air, as though they were snowflakes.

I was wheezing all weekend because of the contaminated air. It was so miserable to be in my area of Carson. I was advised by the news, other people and my own good instinct to keep the windows shut. This action did not really make life any better at the Brown/Joyner apartment with our lack of air conditioning. Last I heard, the fire was estimated to be contained by today. I haven't really heard anything since, but I feel safe opening my windows again. I can breathe deeply while out of doors now. Over 2,000 acres burned. The hills just behind Carson St. (Applebees, and the like) are completely blackened. Not that the dead grass was all that attractive, but it definitely is more depressing to see now.

I hope everyone reading is well. Take time to appreciate the things and security you have. I know that I will . . . nor will I take for granted the sheer wonderful blessing that is smoke-free CO2. This quote from the title number of the musical by the same name felt like the perfect description for my newfound appreciation.

Into the fire we go!

Quick note all, and not nearly as cool as the musical The Scarlet Pimpernel would lead us to believe. Pray for me right now. I'm at my parent's home. After work, I went to their house for dinner. I even forgot to go to my house to pick up the laundry I was planning on bringing. I cannot go back to my apartment tonight. If you've been paying attention to the news tonight, you'll realize that, basically, Carson City has become what the library announced a few years ago during the summer when the C fell off the sign (ARSON CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY). Yes, my town is ablaze, possibly begun by teenagers partying at 2 am. Our city is full of smoke, ash and flames. I literally cannot drive to my own house right now, as the roads are blocked off. I may not be able to go to work tomorrow. A family in my church just moved from Dayton to Carson City in the last month. Their house was apparently the first one that burned down. An auto shop was demolished and there are chemical fumes floating about in our densly polluted air at the moment. When my roommate was driving down Carson St. (which is also Hwy 395, and our main st.), she could not only see the flames from the opposite side of the road, she could feel the heat! Scary stuff. Pray for the people in the danger zones. Pray that our house remains. Pray for the evacuees staying at Carson High School.

Clearly, Carson is a hopping town now. What with our armed thief fleeing from the police yesterday to Tahoe and having the road from Carson to Tahoe closed for over 12 hours yesterday and our fires in Yosemite and Carson City today--we're a great place for tourism! Come and visit; I'm sure we're only going to be infiltrated by angry UFO's next!

Into the Woods/Wild Wild West

Yes, a strange blend of Sondheim and the old MGM musicals--however, both serve quite sufficiently for yesterday. Leigha is here and as crazy and moody as usual. I house-sat last weekend for Uncle Jacque and Aunt Laurie (they went to Fort Brag, Raven travelled down to So. Cali to visit fam, and Cody is still in Tennessee). Leigha spent Saturday night with me there. We watched the new Peter Pan twice (which we are both still obsessed with), had popcorn (I also had an artichoke. MMM!), IBC root beer from the bottle (Leigha thought it was the greatest thing ever), read Pamela's First Musical (Ooh dahling!), talked, sang, danced, played with Paas and both cats. One set of busy 12 hours!

Yesterday, my parents picked the both of us up after church. We bought ourselves some dandy picnicking foods and headed up to the Lake (Aunt Susan said people in Louisiana call it Lake Tahooie!). We had lunch at Spooner lake and hiked around a bit. Then, we headed where no Brown has gone before. Yes indeedy, folks, we headed to the Ponderosa Ranch, pardners; home of the famous Western television show and the first entirely filmed in color--BONANZA! Dunh dunh dunh dunh da da da DU! Dunh dunh dunh da du da da da!

We saw ourselves some fancy rope trickin', standin' right on a steed, whip lashin', a gunfight filled with comedy, the set of Bonanza, Stinky Pete's prison, the Ponderosa Bible Church (where you can git hitched), ole fasheoned automobeels, lyesince plates datin' back to the 1910s, and much much more. It's almost enough the make a rooster crow, fer a pig ta holler, and a grown man ta up and cry! All in all, it was a fun day.

Kudos to Nina who now has her driver's license--5 days shy of turning 20. Good job Janina! On her first try, too!

Figure out the title yet? "Into the Woods" is clearly from Stephen Sondheim's musical by the same name (an excellent and hilarious musical). "Wild Wild West?" Not the movie or the show. Nope! It's from an old MGM musical known as . . . The Harvey Girls (which I now own on DVD). Cheesy? Absolutely, yet it does have Judy Garland, Ray Bolger, Cyd Charisse and a very young Angela Lansbury as a saloon girl. And the defining great moment of the film is Garland singing "The Atchins, the Topeka and the Santa Fe." Good times to be had. And now, a quote from the great Peter Pan movie, "To live is an awfully big adventure!"

Oh what a beautiful day!

Congratulations must be offered to my lovely parents. On this day, 26 years ago (1978 for all of you to lazy to do the math), my father and mother married. They remain married, still get a kick out of each other, and still enjoy kissing in front of their three daughters (who pretend to be disgusted, as opposed to 16 years ago, when it really was gross). May the two of you continually grow in your love for each other, family, and God.

That sentimental mushiness being done with, I would like to mention a rare find in Reno, Nevada today. Aunt Laurie called me up on Monday to invite me to go patio-furniture shopping with her yesterday (Wed). Seeing as she is an absolute hoot and Janina was coming along, I readily agreed. It was a very good day.

Together, the three of us searched to find Aunt Laurie's neighbor's furniture place. Alas, it was not to be found. We explored two rather posh places (next to the Audi/Porsche/$$$ car dealership) before throwing the towel in. Aunt Laurie and I were starved. We had lunch at the Macaroni Grill. MMM. Feed me Italian any day!

Aunt Laurie thought she had seen some thrift stores along 4th St. Janina and I laughed together as we "educated" Aunt Laurie. Now, I know 4th St. has many other "goods to sell," but it also happens to be the known (shall I say shopping center) for Prostitutes in the evenings. Laurie did not know this. She did not seem so keen on looking in the thrift stores then. We mutually agreed that Laurie must have been on another street when seeing this plethora of thrift stores, because we did not see many at all.

So, we headed down Virginia St. I now must pause and share my enthusiasm for serendipidious discoveries. By sheer luck (or Providence), we discovered a most amazing gem; a vintage clothing shop. This particular shop seemed to focus most on clothing from the 1920s-1960s. It was heavenly bliss. I tried on several terrific hats as I admired the clothing. Once again I questioned God as to why I was born in the 1980s. I was clearly meant to be born around 1935 or so. Perhaps this is a reason I love drama to the extent I do. It gives me a chance to "live" in another era, even for a little while.

We moved on to an Antique mall which was not far down the street. I pawed through the books, furniture,pictures and artifacts, wishing I had an unlimited well of money which would allow me to purchase some of the treasure I unearthed. Since this was not to be, I settled on a fun picture of the members of the Rat Pack and (I ask that the reader stands in reverence) a Playbill for the original company of Bye Bye Birdie! Yes, it's true. The 1960 musical which starred Chita Rivera, Susan Watson, and Dick Van Dyke prior to his famous show, Mary Poppins or Chitty Chitty Bang Bang performance. What are the odds? It is in mint condition and a pleasure to own.

The three of us headed to Sparks in order go to the Ben and Jerry's store afterwards. I had a Dublin Mudslide sundae which was amazing. Do try it; you will NOT regret it, and your tastebuds will thank you. We headed home after, and were able to talk to both Kelsey and Halley on the phone. I had to tease Halley on her Disneyland training. She is to be on the janitorial staff, just like Kelsey, at DCA (Disney California Adventure). Apparently, she has three weekends of training--the final being "Advance Sweeping!" I thought that was one of the most amusing things I'd heard in a long while!

In the evening, I went to see Spiderman 2 with Kristen, her four younger brothers, and two of their friends. It was great! I can't wait for the third to come out; although then they will be done! :(

Now, it is time to relax with a great novel and hope today will be as rewarding as yesterday. Oh, and if you're puzzled as to my title, just think of Oklahoma! Two quick fun facts about the movie: 1) They wanted to film it in Oklahoma, but it was impossible to find a great spot without oil machines to ruin the shots. It was filmed in Arizona, and the govenors of Oklahoma and Arizona agreed that for the duration of the filming, that bit of Arizona was an honorary section of Oklahoma! 2) Because Curly sings "The corn is as high as an elephant's eye," the director wanted tall stalks of corn. He turned to a particular group of science students at a nearby university for help. They managed to genetically enhance the corn, so that it was over 8 ft. tall! Not only did Gordan MacRae have to ride his horse, they had to have the horse walk on a platform to make it look natural!

Well, now that I have thoroughly entertained you (and wished my mother a happy birthday on the 5th if I don't blog until then), I hope you have a beautiful morning, a beautiful day, a beautiful feeling, and that everything is going your way!

Starting out so foolishly small, it's hard to believe you will grow at all!

I realize that it may seem as though I'm in a blogging frenzy at the moment, but I promise to cool it. However I have BIG news that I must share. I'm an aunt again!

Last night, at 9:12 Colorado time, my sister Jessica gave birth to her second daughter and child. I would have written about this last night, but my brother-in-law and sister are a tad strange in the naming department. They didn't name my niece (the famous Leigha Anne Robins) until 12 or so hours after she was born. This was the case with my new niece Brianna Morgan Robins. Apparently they want to see their babies to see "what name fits." Whatever. Anyway, she was 8 lbs. 4 oz., has blue eyes, chubby cheeks, long fingers and toes, and dark hair that looked curly last night.

My sister had a tough delivery (over nine hours!), had to be put on oxegyn and given an epideral. She's exhausted, so I didn't get to talk to her today when I called to learn the baby's name. Leigha talked to me and told me she loved her sister, that she was more fun out of her mommy's tummy than in. Good! Leigha's 4 1/2 now, and had a huge range of feelings about the baby. She was the only grandchild on either side of her families. She wanted a boy (named either Johnny Depp or Peter Pan), and was mad for a long time when she learned the baby was a girl (which she wanted to name Cutie Pie). She learned she'd have to "share her grandma" which I believe almost pushed her over the edge. Now she is excited, so I'm glad.

That's all. Enjoy your days, and the title's lyrics from "I've Seen it Happen Before," from the odd Greek-theatre type musical Allegro by Rodgers and Hammerstein. I have another niece! :)

And ooh what luck! Cause here . . . it . . .is !

Well, the results are in. I made both of the shows. In Carousel I will be singing/dancing/acting in the chorus. Yeah! In Once Upon a Mattress I will be playing . . . Princess #12. The princess who tries to win the hand of Dauntless just prior to Winnifred. I don't know if I get to be in the chorus, but I hope so. After all, my role is on for about 10 minutes in the beginning--and that is all. I will be sad if I don't get to sing onstage at all. :(

Who's the girl who's gettin' the wows? Who's the girl who's the girl who's takin' the bows?

Once again, this is a later lyric from "It's Me!" from Me and Juliet. I don't know if it needs to be said, but I felt great after tonight's callback. I don't know if I'll get Winnifred, but I performed at my best, so I don't have to regret anything.

I joined with the dance audition at 6 pm. It was fairly simple (the same as last night), and I got it. I realized later I wasn't smiling as much as I normally would, so I felt a tad stupid about that.

I wasn't alone tonight! Laura, a lady I've sung in the choir with at church, was there! I love that lady. We sat together. She was there for the role of Queen Aggravain (the role Katie Nicklos played). She was hysterical. I really think she was the best, so I hope she gets it. She said that she wasn't intending to stay in the show if she didn't, just because of the time commitment.

I read for Winnifred three times. There were only four of us who did. There were about 8 of us who were called back for Winnifred. One of the girls, Mercy, I liked her voice, but I think it may have been too "operatic" for the role. I tried to come off as physically rough girl, because Princess Winnifred grew up in a swamp. She's a tomboy. I felt good about singing "Shy." Yeah!

Lady Larken was a joke. I didn't read for her at all! They called us up to sing for her two separate times, about 2 hours apart from each other. I hate singing high, since I really don't feel comfortable doing it. I warmed up all day, and practiced with my tape that my wonderful father plunked out for me. I wasn't as satisfied with it as I was with "Shy," but I felt that I hit the notes pretty well. The second time we went up, the girl who was next to me (who I think may have played Anita when they did West Side Story), said "I don't want to be at the end like last time." Then she looked at me, "I don't think I want to go after her, either!" I was surprised, but felt that I had received a compliment.

I find out tomorrow afternoon. I'll keep you posted!

I'll be Seeing You . . .

This title was made popular by WWII, but actually came from a musical in the 1930s, and later used in SWING! (which I saw the summer of 2000--front row and grinning like and idiot until a guy in the cast winked at me and I realized it!).

This title seemed appropriate for me tonight. Round 1 of callbacks are completed! Huzzah! I had my callback for Carousel tonight. I was there for more than three hours. I read once for Carrie, sang part of "June is Bustin' Out All Over," with everyone twice, "Mr. Snow" three times; twice with the 6 others called back for Carrie, and once by myself. Ooh! and I also got to stand in several lines so that they could compare heights of people. Sound crazy, no? I wished I could have read for the other Carrie scene, since I had some definite ideas of how it should be read and no one read the way I would have. How sad. Each one who read for Carrie only read once, so I felt good about that.

Tomorrow night I will be attending the callback for Once Upon a Mattress. I think I have a better shot of getting a lead in that show, but I really couldn't say that with much confidence. After all, I'm new. Plus, the director came up to me and said, "Did you realize that you put down that you played Dolly Tate in Hello Dolly?" She seemed amused. I was mortified. How could I mix that show up with Annie Get Your Gun? I know the mind's the first thing to kaput (according to every getting old joke), but who knew it began at 24? I'm pathetic.

Cast list goes up on Friday. I'll post tomorrow, and then the results! Cross your fingers and toes!