It's curtain time, and away we go!

I'm tired. Exhausted. Long, long, loooooooooooooong weekend! Three performances. A lot of trying to relax. A lot of expending of energy. A lot of being cold.

I hate my body temperature, I just want this known. It can literally be 80 degrees, and I'll be freezing. I cannot get warm in any indoor venue at the moment, even though it's been mid-seventies. No, I am actually freezing. Wearing my sweaters, pants, shoes, socks, jackets; everything I can think of. Sadly I'm shivering 90% of the time.

The show this weekend was . . . an experience. Opening Night was the performance where I knew people. My parents came. Janina came. Uncle Jacque and Aunt Laurie came. Kirsten and Shonna came. And I sucked. I'm not kidding. Every dance had to be screwed up by me in some way. Literally, every single person's hands would be down, and I would put them up. For "Stiff Upper Lip" there was a section where everyone onstage was moving, and I was looking around like a moron. I looked over my shoulder at one point in that song, and saw Andie and Marcus staring at me like "Lynette, what's wrong with you?" I realized it was the last "Fight, fight, fight, fight, fight!" We punch our fists out in a very definitive fighting manner. Andie and Marcus told me that they always watched me at that point because I knew what I was doing. Obviously, not on Opening!!!! I thought it was funny when Dave was pretending to vacuum, and Lynne and Mandy had to tell him to turn it off. The vacuum didn't come on at all, so their yelling, "Everett, turn that thing off!!!!" didn't make sense. I asked Bob if the vacuum's noise was one of those high pitched noises that only dogs and people in a musical theatre show could hear.

Our second performance went really well. Well, at the end of the show that all went kaput! The dancers were dancing and a curtain came down too early. It hit some of the dancers in the head!!!! The fly rail techies, whom we all assumed must have been drunk, were bringing curtains up and down like crazy. We did well with the rest of the finale. Then, at the end, the curtain was coming down and stopped. It went back up and wouldn't shut! The audience kept applauding and we had no idea what to do (it's not so easy to do an encore bow in this show). Some of our cast members started to stand and kneeled back down. The audience rose to their feet. We all kept the grins plastered to our faces and muttered, "Bring the stupid curtain down!" The audience began to stand, still applauding. One of the dancers began to wave at the audience. The entire cast heaved a sigh of relief--someone was being smart! We waved and the curtain down. We were determined to get a standing ovation, even if the audience wouldn't get to leave so we could get one!

So, that was this week's adventure. Time will tell what next week will bring. EEK!

The song lyrics come from "Another Openin', Another Show," from Kiss Me Kate.

Tonight's the Night!

Opening night is here. Wow. I'm thrilled. Beyond belief. Actually the show is looking really good now. And the other night, Gina was walking by me and said, "Lynette, you looked good tonight in 'I've Got Rhythm.' I think you're really getting it." HUZZAH!!!!!!!!!!! I am a semi-strong weak link!

Tonight everyone is coming, too. My mom, dad, Janina, Aunt Laurie, Chris, Kirsten, Shonna, Dave, and his wife (I teach with the unfamiliar names). I'm expecting some serious cheering for THIS random showgirl (that's how I'm listed in the program!). Let's hope I fake it enough to impress them! :)

I ran to Reno after school for a last costume addition. I wanted long evening gloves and clips for my hair for the NYC scene. I've decided that there must be an International Motorcyclist Convention there, because that 90% of the traffic I saw on my way up. Tres bizarre and tres obnoxious! I hit every red light possible and was truly annoyed at the fact that I didn't get back sooner. Sigh.

The title of the post comes from the song of the same title, and it's used in Crazy For You. It's sung in the "dressing room scene" before the quintessential Mickey and Judy movie ploy, when we "put on a show!" I gave myself a prop and am eating Cracker Jacks during that whole song; which is heck of fun! Break a leg, cast!

I'm dancing and I can't be bothered now!

Well, the honeymoon period at OHS is over. I kind of relieved, though. I knew I was going to have to start seeing true colors very soon, and I figured they'd all come at once. Well, it wasn't quite that bad, but there were tons this week. I was told to "F--- off!" several times (Yeah, prove to me you can say that while you're on the way to the principal. That just adds more writing for me on your referral and more punishment for you. Brilliant!). I had a kid throw papers at me. I had a kid get upset with all three of us, because he doesn't feel like he'll be prepared to go back to the high school. Well, the thing is, you actually have to pass your classes before you can! Good luck at going back there, buddy. We had kids quit a lot during the middle of assignments or activities. Sigh. It's been a long week.

Next week will be longer, though. We're having tech and dress rehearsals for Crazy for You all week long. And the best part about that is the fact that we'll be having the orchestra there on Wednesday night, Thursday night, and all of our performances. We've only practiced with them once, and of course it was sloppy. The live orchestra actually does sound different from the CDs we practice with normally. This time, it had more of a ragtime feel than the CD. Just ducky.

And I'm still the very remedial dancer in most numbers. I've tried working with Jen Haddix at various CFY and Fiddler rehearsals. We can never spare enough time, though. I hate being so unprepared. Seriously. I told Gina a couple of weeks ago that I was sorry that I am the weak link in the show, but I intended to work hard to be the strongest weak link possible. She and Lynn laughed at me. How silly to not take me seriously. So, next week I will not allow myself to breathe between breaks. I will be "dancing" my tail off so I'm not the one who is the obvious bad part of the number.

The title comes from the song, "I Can't be Bothered Now." It is used in Crazy for You. I actually have a recording with Fred Astaire singing it, which is fun.

I'm still hurting

It was four years ago. Four years ago.

I was in college. It was my senior year. I remember that I'd got to my Literature in Secondary Schools class at 7:30 that morning. Vicki Scaggs walked in and said, "Some planes hit the Twin Towers. I just heard it on the radio."

I thought, "Huh. That doesn't sound too good. That's too bad."

Class went on as usual. None of us suspected that while we were discussing the lesson plans we'd written for To Kill a Mockingbird, lifestyles were being changed for good. Forever. That we'd feel the waves of sadness and anger all the way in Nampa, Idaho.

At 9:00 I left my class from up by the rotunda in Wiley. I headed downstairs. I was passing Felter Lecture Hall, and there was a strange silence I wasn't used to. I glanced in the classroom through a door that was always closed during that class. The televisions were on and the class was filled. I saw. I SAW.

I stood in shock for a long time. I couldn't speak. I just watched, horrified. I remembered my first and second trips to NYC, and having not only seen them in real life, but having been inside one of the towers.

I e-mailed everybody I knew in New York, which thanks to my counselor stint at Camp Timber Tops, was not a small number. I got response after response back from my former campers. All of them were in 7th grade. It had been Amanda's first day of school, and she'd had to walk home in a chaotic city. Lindsey's best friend's dad had been a caterer who was in the building and died. Ari's neurosurgeon father and psychologist mother were volunteering all their time to help the efforts. I got so many questions back from them. Mostly from Amanda, the one who I would have expected the least reaction from. Maybe I was one of the few people who she could dump on, I don't know. I saw a lot of maturity in her from her previous e-mails to me.

It was four years ago. It's still hard for me to believe it happened. I've even been to Ground Zero since. I've read the messages on the fence surrounding it. I've seen the cross left from the building structure. I've shed my tears.

I know a lot of tragedy came from the event. I witnessed it. I also know a lot of good came from the event. I witnessed it. In a way I'm glad I lived with life I can recall before and after this date. It changed my thinking. It gave me new things to reflect upon. It changed my perspective about many things. It gave me a hope and made me stronger.

God bless America.

The title comes from the song "I'm Still Hurting" from The Last Five Years.

And you'll knock 'em dead at dinner if your gown just drips with fringe!

More trauma with CFY costumes. I have tried on my "Faux Follies Filly" costume (I was calling it "Faux Follies Female" which Bob laughed at, and then changed to this name, which I like a lot more!), and I cringe at the fringe! Actually, I suppose it's not THAT bad, and I should be grateful that I don't have to wear my cropped sailor outfit anymore. Try this for an alternative: A crushed velvet white leotard, with silver sequins all over it, and a double layer of fringe for my skirt. Oh, and lest we forget, I also have silver wristbands, a silver collar, a hat with feathers taller than my 5"5" self, and silver stillettos. And the best part? As I wear that at the end, I get to stand with my arms extended and I get to bevel. For approximately 7 minutes. That's right; seven. Without much (if any) movement. Lordy, I'm excited!!!!!!

Here's the fun part; Gina said, "Lynette, do you have a padded bra? Because you'll need one in that outfit." No! No! I do NOT own a padded bra! I realize I look like a 12 year old kid in that costume! I don't want a padded bra! However, I have to get one. Hmph.

This rivals the time in high school when I came out for our first performance of Phantom having not buttoned my waitress dress at all, and was gaping in all my white and bra-ish glory. I realized it and remedied the situation quickly before many people noticed, but my choir teacher who did said, "Lynette! I couldn't believe it! Of all the people to come out unbuttoned! At least you're not very well endowed!" Thank you Mrs. Johnson. The experience wasn't humiliating enough without that added dig. Sigh. That was 8 years ago. You'd think I'd be able to move on with life, but people have to bring you back, huh?

School is still going well. Only one kid seems to be even remotely what I was expecting behavior-wise. Huzzah! I can feel them relaxing a bit, so I've got to stay firm. But it's nice to know that these kids will accept it.

The title comes from the song "Beautiful Girls" used in my favorite of classic movie musicals, Singin' in the Rain. Good times.

This irresistable, Paris original!

A quick jotting of a blog. Simply because I can, and I thought it was funny.

When I went to Europe for the first time, four summers ago (YIKES!!!!!!), I bought a scarf in Montpelier, France. I loved it. I still do. It kind of got me to fall in love with scarves of all sorts. I have since purchased a couple of them for the sole purpose of accessorizing.

Today I woke up at 6:25--needing to be at school at 7 a.m.! It's the latest I've slept in, and I was rushing this morning. I plotted what would be an easy outfit for today whilst showering. I settled on my khaki pants, a pink camisole, a blouse with purple and pink stripes (tres chic!), and my brown loafers. At the last minute, I caught sight of my purple scarf with stripes that compliments the blouse fairly well. Professional, yet simple. I put my scarf on as a tie, grabbed my purple rubber bracelet (the profits went to asthma research), and called it good.

The kids and some of the other staff could not seem to get a handle on the fact that I was wearing "a tie". I got so many quizzical looks and a plethora of questions regarding this "fashion statement". It wasn't that big of a deal in my mind, but apparently I'm in the minority.

So I'll put the question out in the open. Is a female wearing a tie (real or not) that strange? Worthy of a day of incessent mentionings? It's professional, right? It matched my attire, right? Why would this raise so many eyebrows? Hmm . . .

The title comes from the song "Paris Original" from How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying. Rosemary is trying to impress J. Pierpont Finch so she spends a heck-of-a-lot of money on a sexy dress from Paris to catch his eye. I wasn't trying to catch any eyes, but I certainly did make an impression--just like Rosemary.

Am I drunk? Or maybe I'm dreaming . . .

Well, I meant to post sooner, believe me I did. Bri helped remind me of that with her comment, so thanks, Bri! Sorry I haven't been able to talk to you much at CFY rehearsals yet. We're Phase 10ing it backstage again, and you can feel free to join us if you want (Unless we bring Uno, or Skip-Bo, or something else. Then you can play that with us!).

So, my first day of school entailed a 4 hour meeting. Woo-hoo. We herded all 17 of the 27 enrolled who were present into Dave's room and bombarded them with the Carson High handbook as well as our rules and regulations. Since I teach at the alternative high school, we teach three classes a day, and are done at 12:15. So, that was it for that day. The next day I went over rules and procedures for my class. Day three launched my classes into the material: Nouns for English III/IV, and reading assesments for my Reading class. The three of us teachers at Opp HS teach the third period together. This quarter, it's Life Skills. We've begun an Orienteering Unit, which has proved fun thus far. Today, I furthered delving into the noun unit, did a newspaper project with my Reading class. Orienteering has been popular thus far.

I'm stunned at how well behaved the kids are so far. I'm not so naiive as to think it'll last much longer, but for now I'm enjoying it. The kids actually behave better than the kids did at CCS on the first days of school. Maybe it's my past experiences I've learned from, or maybe it's something else. Whatever it is, I'm not complaining!

The International Independent Film Festival was, in a word, awesome!!!!!!!!! At the kick-off party (that Chris insisted we dress up for, only to find that ironed jeans were the next nicest clothes!), I got to meet a few of the directors of the films. I rubbed elbows with Andy Dick (eh), AND (drum roll inserted here) Dave Barry!!!!!!! I actually didn't feel comfortable talking to either of them without a real purpose, but they were at the same small party with me, and I KNOW they both saw me. It was a lot of fun. Also, because I was "with" Chris at this party, I got a Celebrity badge (For free! It normally cost a few hundred dollars), which got me into any of the events and films for free! I took advantage of it!

I left rehearsal early on Friday night (9 pm) to see a movie in Incline (part of Tahoe). It started late, so they let us ride to a party across the street for the director . . . in a limousine! I've never ridden in one before, so that was cool. The funny thing was, there were 8 of us squished in this thing, and I only knew Chris. And for the knee slapper? I had to sit on the floor! Oh well, it makes for a good story! Well, this time, we were both kind of underdressed. And even though they were serving free drinks, neither of us are really drinkers--occasionally a glass of wine or something, but even that's pushing it for me. So we walked back to the theater.

We caught a short film that I would suggest everyone see if they get a chance. It's called Final Sale and it's about the funniest thing ever! It's about two best friends in a boutique somewhere who get into a fight over a dress (which there's only one of), and they break into some serious martial arts! I laughed so hard! Then, we saw another short called Dear Sweet Emma. It was funny, but in a VERY black humor sort of way. Then they began to play the feature for the evening, which was why we were there, My Big, Fat, Independent Film. The premise? They were combining several Independent blockbusters into one film and making fun of them. Sounds entertaining, no? Yeah, well, we left less than an hour into it because it was so lousy, cliche', and I was personally getting a little disturbed at some of the material. There were some funny things, but not enough to make it worth my time. I'm also glad we left early, because at the end was a Q and A with the director . . . something I would have not really cared to listen to.

On Saturday I saw the short films Little Red Jiving Hood (absurd, but hilarious), AdCorps (about the group of people that would have named a store Bed, Bath, and Beyond. Hysterical!), and Cold War (a little dissatisfying, but remeniscent of Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner). But, the really cool thing I did that night? I got to see Mickey Rooney perform LIVE!!!!!!!!!! He was in a film at the festival (which I still want to see even though I couldn't that night). He sang. He danced. He played piano. He told jokes. He imitated rap singers!!!!!!!!! His wife was performing with him, and the two were absolutely adorable. He spent a lot of time giving some of his history. I didn't know Ava Gardner was his first wife! He did a beautiful segment to Judy Garland, too. Oh, and did I mention that I was in the front row? Yeah, 10 feet away from the legend! By far, one of the coolest experiences of my life!

On Sunday I saw a documentary called Shakespeare Behind Bars which was very moving! It's an educational program for prisoners in Kentucky (and maybe other places, too). These men work almost a whole year on a Shakespeare production to perform for their fellow inmates, family and friends, and sometimes they tour other prisons. It was absolutely fascinating. I'm going to see about getting the DVD of it, so I can possibly show it to classes when I teach Shakespeare. These men were not light criminals, either. One of them even had a double life sentence! The group they focused on was putting on The Tempest that season. I really enjoyed this documentary!

So, I guess that's about it. This last week has felt quite surreal because of all of these experiences. I've really enjoyed myself! The title comes from the song "Jimmy" from Thoroughly Modern Millie. I must admit, I can fully understand how Millie Dillmount is feeling at that moment!

To go to a fancy nightclub and stay out after ten!

Tomorrow is the first day of school. EEEK!!!!!!!!!!! I'm so very nervous. Excited. Ready for the challenge. Wishing I were an ostrich who could bury my head in the sand. Sigh.

I also get to go to a VIP party-thing for the Tahoe Independent Film Festival! For free! The BAC is showing some of the films, so Chris got tickets. Ooh . . . I get to rub elbows with the independent elite. All I know is that if John Heder (sp?) is there, I'll be thrilled and probably follow him around quoting Napoleon Dynamite all night. Well, for the two hours the event lasts, but I'll brag about it during Fiddler rehearsal tomorrow evening.

Umm . . . I joined a gym today. My first time ever. I decided that I need to tone up a bit, particularly with my sliver of a piece of fabric for a costume(s) in Crazy for You. What is Bob thinking?????????? So I may get . . . something? Ah, I'll be in better shape. My clothes will fit better (not that there's much of a problem or anything). Taking care of God's temple and all that jazz.

The song lyrics are from "How Lovely to be a Woman" from Bye Bye Birdie. Kim MacAfee has just been "pinned" by her first boyfriend, and is dreaming of all the new experiences it will bring with it. I suppose since everything in this post is a first for me somehow, I feel it works.

There are times I am not sure of what I absolutely know

Phew! It's amazing how one's life can change in the course of a week. I was hopping around in circles and singing for joy last week at this time, because I'd just learned that day that I had a job. Today, I'm up to my ears in insurance papers, binders with papers about The Framework for Teaching (which, thanks to NNU, I feel very familiar with), Carson City School District's policies, handbooks, Opportunity High School's policies, 3x5 notecards with various information, etc., etc., etc. (to quote Yul Brynner in The King and I).

I've been getting nervous about this position ever since the reality of it hit me. I just hope and pray that I have the strength and wisdom to do this job well. I've been praying about it a lot. I do think that it's what God wants me to do, but I can't help but realize how tough this will be. I think it'll be good, too, though. I will only be teaching about 4 1/2 hours a day, and the rest of time will be lunch and prep. I'm getting a signing bonus for the district and the state! I'll also be getting paid extra for doing detentions once every three weeks. I try not to be money obsessed, but considering that this is quite a leap up for me, I cannot seem to help it. The Lord is truly good!

We have finally begun real rehearsals for Fiddler. I'm excited for it. Jen and Rachel are such fun girls, and I do feel an older sister inclination towards the two of them (practice, perhaps?). Peter-Pedro (as I and several others call him) makes me laugh, and I think it'll be fun to play opposite of him. Lots of fun people are in the show with me. Yeah for fun shows!!!!!!!!

The title of this post comes from the song "A Puzzlement" from The King and I. It mirrors how I feel about this upcoming teaching position. Stand firm and strong, Lynette!

Then the job is yours and Hudson's Floor Wax really doesn't matter!

Aaaahhhhhhhhhhh sweet mystery of life at last I found thee! I got a job! I'm teaching English this year! At the alternative high school in Carson. I'll be "in" the district! I'll have much better pay! I'll have benefits! I must admit that I'm overly ecstatic about this. Delirious with relief. Huzzah!!!!!!!!!!!!! Blogger won't let me enter to skip lines, so I'll end it here. The title is also from "The Speed Test" from Thoroughly Modern Millie.

One week, will it ever be right? Then out of the hat, it's that big first night!

The Taming of the Shrew opened on Friday. We've had two performances. We have one tonight. Then, there are only 6 more to go, with at least one pick-up rehearsal. Huzzah!

Actually, I think the show's been going about as well as it could be. Most people have memorized all of their lines and have been delivering them quite well. There are just three people whom it's hard to trust to know cues, and even some of their lines. I've been told of some changes to scenes right before I go on stage for that scene--thank you director. Oh well.

I still haven't heard anything from the school, so I suppose I'll hear tomorrow. I really hope so. Denise, the costumer for all of the WNMTC shows I've done so far, has called me and told me that there are still openings in the Carson City District. She's very nice, even though I know people who try to say otherwise. I've never had any trouble with her; just the opposite, in fact.

The title of this post comes from "Another Openin', Another Show" from Cole Porter's Kiss Me Kate. Supposedly, the writer got the idea for the show while working with Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontanne in a show together! A great couple in the theatre who worked well together on stage. On stage, during the rehearsal process, was an entirely different story.

Tell me where my desk is, when we eat lunch, how much I'll be paid . . .

I just got back from my interview at PHS/Opportunity High School. This is the first teaching interview of the summer where I have felt good about how I did. I don't think I did poorly at the other two, but this one felt different. I am hoping that that is a sign of some sort. I was able to tell them of some of my proud teaching moments--6th graders "doing" verbs, The Odyssey and The Iliad plays, the Anne Frank "grounding"--all of which they seemed impressed with. They asked me if I had to teach Health and English at the same time, how I might tie the two together. Literature! Literature is the answer! I said I could possibly pull in a Dickens novel, and study the two together, and have them do a project with both of the subjects. I hope they were impressed with me. I really need a job.

Dev, that dream sounds DREADFUL!!!! I'm sure your English Comp class will be nothing but top-notch teaching and preparation. :) I've had two weird dreams this week. On Saturday, I dreamt that I died. I died in bed. I was able to see initial responses from people, which was kind of cool. I also saw a bit of my funeral. Talk about creepy, huh? The other dream involved me posing as a teacher, but really being a spy. I was in Washington D.C. with two college friends whom I deduced were actually enemy spies. I was able to outswaggle them and escape their evil plot to kill me. Jennifer Garner has nothing on me!!!!!! :)

I fell last night during Shrew rehearsal. Let me rephrase that. I BIFFED IT at rehearsal last night!!!!!! I always wipe my face off after one scene where Michelle (Katherina) pours water on my head and powdered sugar in my face. I was running towards a house we use, and there was some rolled up carpet on the ground. I, of course, did not see it. I tripped and would have fallen face first if the stairs hadn't broken my fall. I landed on my left thumb, stubbed both of my big toes, hurt my left leg, skinned my right knee, skinned and bruised my right hip, skinned my right elbow, and seriously bruised my upper right arm (which now hurts if I lift something or move it upwards). I'm such a klutz!!!!!!

The title of this post is in my earnest hope that it will happen. The lyrics are taken from the song "The Speed Test" from Thoroughly Modern Millie

I'm a maid who would marry!

So we had our first Shrew dress rehearsal AND run-through last night. And I survived. YEAH!!!!!!! Actually, it wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it might be. As of now it's a 3 1/2 hour show. That's with notes, no assigned scene changes, people taking longer with costume changes, etc. I think we'll survive. According to Michelle, we're getting paid for this show. Not just paid, though. We're supposed to get paid by the minute we're onstage. Huh? It's not like we punch in and out or anything. I don't know who determines it, but oh well. They feed me. They're paying me. And I have the three greatest costumes I've ever had in any show EVER!!!!!!! I feel quite pretty in them (something that doesn't happen very often to be sure). My wedding dress is the greatest thing! I'm not a fan of any of my headpieces, but oh well.

I have an interview with Pioneer High School on Wednesday. I was feeling good about it, because the principal called me about it. But then again, look what happened last time. Plus, my mom works with a lady who also applied for CHS and did her student teaching there (but wasn't the one who got the job). She has called PHS about their English position. I would feel infinitely more confident if I didn't know of any other competion. Plus, she still has a job with FIS (where my mom teaches). I know it's a long drive, but at least she has a carpool. I don't have a job. I NEED a job. All the energy in my prayers lately seem devoted to this one specific topic. There's also the fact that I promised Stephanie D. I'd go with her to Utah to visit Merci in a couple of weeks if I get the job. I need to get OUTTA Nevada; at least for a short time!

I went to Tahoe with Kristen last Monday, and it looks like we're going again this Monday. Yeah! The only problem were my selected places of sunburnage. I forgot the back of my knees. My left shoulder had some issues--now it looks as though I was in a scratching fight. It's kind of funny the way they streak in a close area! I'll remember these spots NEXT time.

I might see Macbeth at Tahoe on Sunday as well. I think it'll be very different from Comedy of Errors (no dance break for Thriller, or farting, etc.), so I am interested in seeing it. Tonight I'm going to see Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I hope it's good.

The lyrics for this post come from the song Tom, Dick, or Harry from Kiss Me Kate. I selected it because it's what the Bianca character sings in the show, and I'm attempting to delve further into the role.

Tonight, old boy [gal], you did it!

Thank you Chris! Thank you Devon! You two are phenomenal when it comes to computer/internet stuff. Very wonderful, unlike myself. Dev gave me some wonderful tips of how to fix my issues. Chris took the image, made it smaller and e-mailed it to me. HUZZAH!!!! Anne and the lucious Gilbert shall serve as my profile image! Thanks, you two, for helping me.

I had another rehearsal with Gary, Stephanie, and Jim today. For the same scene. It went well. I like what we've got now. On Friday, we took pictures for the poster. It will have Jim, Stephanie, myself, Rachel (Hodel), and Jen (Chava). I'm excited to see how they turn out. I'll post the picture (or the link if it is such a hassle) when I can.

I called the Douglas County School District today. I've called the school, and e-mailed the principal. I figured she was on vacation, so I'd be proactive about my suspense. Apparently they've hired someone for the position. Now, that's great. I wish it was me, simply so I'd have a job, but I'm sure the other person is going to do well. What bothers me is the fact that no one called me, nor did I receive a letter, e-mail, notification of any kind. So, I've been sitting on pins and needles for a month now, and they couldn't just let me know. Isn't there a law of some sort that would hold employers responsible for notifying applicants as to whether or not they will be hired? Seriously! I hope Pioneer High School works out, but I've not been able to contact that principal to see how it's going. I've decided to apply to the state as well. Carson City Library needs an Assistant Librarian. I may not have a lot of library experience, but I think that's what I want to get my Masters in so I can be a school librarian. I've helped my mom out throughout the years, so maybe that'll count for something? Sigh.

I'm driving my mom into her surgery tomorrow. I hope that goes well.

I'm also going to be housesitting for my aunt and uncle next week. Uncle Jacque is starting a new job, and will be living in the Sacramento area during the week and here on the weekends. Laurie is going to San Francisco with Aunt Susan, Uncle Scott, Katie, and Zach for Katie's next brain surgery. Jolly good fun!

Chris is thinking of directing The Taming of the Shrew in March at the BAC. Our production is sort of leaving us (Chris, Warren, Leoney, and myself) disappointed, so he wants to do it right. The BAC Stage Kids will be doing a Western farce on this show called The Taming of LaRue as kind of a pre-show for that. Chris has asked me to direct it. I'm definitely mulling over the possibility. I do enjoy directing, that's for sure. We'll see . . .

The title of this post is dedicated to both Dev and Chris. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The lyrics come from the song "You Did It" from My Fair Lady.

I hope I get it!

GAAAAH!!!!!!!! In my attempt to improve my blog, I thought this picture would be PERFECT for my profile (which I could display on the sidebar). But . . . noooooooooooooo! It won't work! Help, please? Anyone? Anyone? Bueller? Bueller?

Warren, Chris and I went up to Sand Harbor (part of Lake Tahoe for all of ye unfamiliar with where I live) to watch the production of A Comedy of Errors tonight. It was well performed and such. Even amusing at points. I just found the "humor" of the direction a bit overdone and certainly repetetive. Sigh. I've never read or seen this particular Shakespeare play. It (I deduced) had to be the inspiration for the 1980s film Big Business, with Lily Tomlin and Bette Midler. As for the other aspect of the night, we taught Warren how to play Phase 10 (an excellent card game). He was amusing to go with, because he kind of acted like a kid at the circus. He rented a chair. He had one of the staff use the shovel to dig a "ditch" for the chair, so it was more comfortable (this after we'd witnessed it being done for another and mocked it together). He bought a box dinner. He bought a program. He bought the juggling kit from the pre-show. He bought himself, Chris, and I each a deck of Shakespeare playing cards! Thanks, Warren! It was a fun evening.

And tomorrow? I'm probably going to Tahoe again, but with Kristen this time. Perhaps Christa who also goes to our church with us. Yeah! I love living so close to such an amazing place!

This lyric is from the song by the same title from the musical A Chorus Line. I selected it to show how much I hope I "get it" (figure it out), regarding my profile pic. I am not like the characters singing the song, hoping they'll be chosen for the chorus line of that particular Broadway musical.

And when someone needs a makeover, I simply have to take over!

Clearly I have changed the look of my blog. I've been toying with the idea for awhile, actually. This is the 4th change since I started the blog in April of 2004. Hmmm . . . Too much viewing of Trading Spaces, perhaps? :) Actually, I wanted to add links and such. I would read about how to do it on blogger.com, but every time I did what it said to do in order to make these additions, it just didn't happen! I was probably not doing something right. I intend to fiddle with the color and the font as well. Seeing as I am a big fan of quotes, I have also decided to find a quote I like at least once a week, and put it on the side. Am I taking this whole blog thing way out of proportion? You be the judge!

Oh, family health, just in case you're curious. Grandpa's surgery to remove his cancerous growth went successfully. I was able to visit him a couple of times in the hospital. Kelsey's went okay, they discovered some cysts and such, and (I believe) a tumor which they were able to remove. Katie's brain surgery for which she had to be awake went well, and she claims to not be in any pain--this is the same surgery she had when she was 7 (she's 14 now), and it hurt her head so much that they couldn't brush her hair for a month. She has 3 more of these surgeries in the next month (they only got to do 15% of it this time). On Tuesday, my dad collapsed while at lunch with my mom. That shook me up more than the others, because my dad always seems to be in good health and he's so . . . solid. Even dads are succeptible to scaring you with health issues I suppose. Apparently he has some kidney stone problems again, and he's seeing a doctor about it on Wednesday. Yup, the same day as my mom's surgery for her stomach things she's been dealing with for the last year or so. It's a good time to be a part of the Brown/Smith family alright! I'm glad that my prayers have been answered the way I'd like them to be right now, but I'm still nervous, to be sure.

Oh, and something as of last night that I'm not entirely thrilled about for Crazy for You. We were doing some costume things at rehearsal. I kept having to try on hideous 1980's outfits that are supposed to pass for the 1940s. Umm, sure . . . I don't know if I'll get to keep the one that I ended up with, but it wasn't as bad as many of the others. But the part that I am seriously disturbed about. I apparently have to be a "Follies Girl" for a bit. Yeah, not only that, but I have to dance with them (HA!) and wear the "sailor" costume for "Zangler's Follies". This costume is an incredibly short skort, and a cropped "sailor" top. I have to show my torso? I might have to dance in this atrocity? I may have to don fishnets! I really wish I could throw up. I'm really not the sort who enjoys people to view her ghostly white and not-so-fit stomach. Sigh.

The title of this post is in honor of my new look. It comes from the song "Popular" from Wicked. Let me know what you think of this new look!

Who can tell what's waiting on the journey?

I'm sure all of you readers out there have no fingernails left. The anticipation of the next installment of the high-drama life I lead has kept you nibbling those nails, huh? And, as I have waited 1 1/2 weeks to provide the next segment, you've all started on your toenails. Deep apologies, I am a slacker and I know it.

Well, I had a call from CHS prior to actually writing that last post, but since I was at Jacque and Laurie's, I didn't know for a bit. I went home soon after writing that, so I could grab some warmer clothes. Admittedly, I was really going home to check my messages. There was a call from the head of the English department at CHS requesting I call her at home. Immediately, I called. No answer, so I left a message. I waited all night for her to call, and she never did. I went back to the reunion for a couple of hours, and then I went home again. No message. I called back. On the 4th agonizing ring, there was an answer.

She told me that there were several of us who interviewed. I guess they were impressed with me, and the decision boiled down to two of us. They went with the other girl; she'd done her student teaching at CHS. However, she said that Pioneer High School (the "last chance high school") was looking for an English teacher and she had told the principal about me!!!! I talked to the principal at this high school, and it looks like I might be interviewing later this week for that position.

I've called Pau-Wa-Lu. I've e-mailed. No answer. Tomorrow I'm calling the school district to see what's going on. Perhaps people are on vacation???

I had a photo shoot for Carson Magazine on Friday!!!! No, no autographs. You must write to my agent if you'd even want a shot at one. I understand that sending $20 to him is helpful in this request . . . :) They wanted to do some publicity for Fiddler. Stephanie called me to include me in this "elite" group. The three of us who will appear are Jim (Tevye), Stephanie (director/Golde), and myself. We were to meet at 7:20 in full makeup. I've been fitted for all my costumes for the show. They settled on one for the photo, which needed the hem let down. I assumed it would be brought, so I chose to not bring another costume with me. Yes, even Lynette Brown can do dolt-like things on occasion. We caravanned to the setting of out photo. Luckily, it was about a minute from my house. I flew home, threw the costume on over my clothes, crammed my feet into the boots without tying them, and searched for a kerchief like thing for my hair. Grabbing a sheer white scarf with black trim, I zoomed back to the place. I managed to tie the scarf in my hair at the red light, and tied my shoes there. We took several pictures with the three of us. Then we took several individuals whilst singing songs from the show. I did a bit from "Matchmaker." Tomorrow afternoon, I have my second rehearsal for the show--with an acting coach! Gary Aldrich, whose fame in the area is as a vocal coach, apparently will be giving Jim, Stephanie and myself tips for the scene we already blocked. Stephanie wants to do this because as the director as well, she cannot watch her scenes. I feel so . . . special? Whatever. I'm not paying for it, so I have no complaints. Just the drive in my hotter than Hades vehicle (My car was a college graduation gift from my folks. As nice as that was, I've no air conditioning. My apartment hasn't any, either. I HATE the summer heat!!!!!!! I step outside in 106 degree weather saying, "AAAH! So cool!").

So, I was thinking (HELLO ABSTRACT RANDOM!) about this. My family is very entertaining. We cannot stand to be even remotely normal in any aspect of life. Some families get together and play tennis. Others will camp together. Ours does both, but our latest thing is to go "under the knife" together. Brianna was first. She just turned 1 year old last month, still not crawling, but advancing quickly toward the walking bit. She had heart surgery in April. Grandpa had surgery today to remove a cancerous growth. Kelsey (cousin) is having surgery soon. My cousin Katie had a brain surgery a couple of weeks ago (they kept her awake!), and has to continue going to San Francisco throughout August for about five more brain surgery procedures (it's something they've been dealing with since she was about four). My mom is having surgery next week. WHAT IS WRONG WITH US??????????

So the title comes from the song "Into the Woods" from the show of the same title. Since life in general is pretty unpredictable and there are all sorts of surgeries going on in my family right now, I guess this is appropriate. Sigh.

Well I just heard . . .

Well, another week has gone by. Here I am--alive. I am actually at my Uncle Jacque and Aunt Laurie's house. Why you ask? I'll tell you . . . FAMILY REUNION!!!! I know some people dread them like the plague, but ours were always a blast when I was a kid. They're okay now. I am currently watching Snow White with my niece, cousin Zach, and Grandma Smith. My Grandpa (both sets are here now) Smith and I creamed my mom and Uncle Scott in Skip-Bo. Leigha, Cousin Kelsey and I had a ball dancing and singing along with Wicked. And I've only been here two hours.

So I had an interview today at Carson High School for an English position. It took about an hour. It was a panel interview. The head of the English department, one English teacher, and a Dean of Students interviewed me. I feel okay about this one as well. Still haven't heard from Pau-Wa-Lu yet, though. I should know more about Carson either later today or Monday. Fingers crossed, s'il vous plait! I do have one strike against me. My face.

My face has gone through a lot this year. Let's just say I've gone out a very little this week because I have a fear of children running away from me, traumatized for life, at the sight of me. An allergic reaction, blisters, sunburn, dry face, 2 canker sores . . . Yup, I am a sight hideous to behold. The Phantom has nothing on me! It also has the added bonus of being overly painful!!!! It has gone down quite a bit now.

I was in a parade at Virginia City on the 4th to promote Shrew. I forgot to wear sunscreen. But, it was fun to wear my costume. I felt quite pretty in it! I had to wear a cheap tiara with it. I decided that for the show, if I'm to wear the tiara, I want a sash that reads "Miss Padua, 1563" and that my platform will be the benefits of good hygiene--At least 3 baths a year! Fun times.

I had my first Fiddler rehearsal on Tuesday. It was just Jim (Tevye), Stephanie (Golde), and myself. I felt pretty good about it. I also have not one but all my costumes for the show--FOUR OF THEM!!!!!!!!!! When we did it at NNU (back in the day when it was still NNC; the last year it was), the only ones who had more than one costume were Motel and Tzeitel. They had a second costume each for their wedding. Certainly different than this production! The three of us are going to be in a publicity photo for Carson Magazine to promote the show. Maybe all that Miss Padua experience will help me out! :)

Leigha just told me something I don't want to forget.

"I'm the only special person in Colorado!"

"But your family is moving to Kansas right now. You don't live in Colorado anymore."

"But I'm still the only special one."

"Uh-huh."

Seriously, 5 year olds should be mentally examined!

So that's the news in Carson City from the perspective of Lynette. At least in my life. Lots o' fun! The title comes from lyrics from the song "The Rumor" from Fiddler on the Roof.

How to apply for a job!

I'm so weary of applications. I'm tired of waiting. I'm sick of drooling over school district websites at the hint of any English positions. In short, I'm sick of unemployment! Ugh. The Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School, I should know next week whether or not I'm moving forward in the interview process (it's taken longer than the principal anticipated). I've filled out information. I've had to reveal my g.p.a.'s from high school, college, and those of my parents and grandparents, and . . . I've written essays. I've gathered transcripts, letters of intent, resumes, letters of recommendation, test scores, etc. I'm so ready to be done with this crap. Why doesn't some infinitely wealthy person decide to set me up for life, knowing that I'd be responsible with the money? I would continue to work, but just doing stuff I always have wanted to do. Teach. Be an actress, singer, travel agent, historian, author, etc.

So, let's see . . . oh! Here's a bit of possible excitement. I found out through Juliana (Belle) something that I may be VERY keen on. She's going to AMDA in August (the American Musical and Dramatic Academy in NYC), but she's kept tabs on this area theatre-wise. I'm going to e-mail the guy and find out more, but apparently someone is trying to do Les Miserables here! In December. I would love to do it, but with Taming of the Shrew being in August, Crazy For You in late September/early October, The Last Five Years in October (Chris is doing it; I'd love to help seeing as that show is AWESOME!), and Fiddler on the Roof in November, I don't know how feasible this is. Like I said, I'll learn more.

And, since I've been in this mopey, emotionally icky phase of late, I'm trying to remain upbeat and positive. One way to do this is to thank friends who have stood out in significant ways to me lately.

*Diane, Crissi, Chris S., Linda, Don--Each of these people attend my church. Each of them touched me in some way this weekend at or after the service. The teaching this week really hit home, and I was blubbering by the end. A dam broke, and I could not regain control. It was pretty bad. Diane and Crissi prayed and talked with me in very encouraging ways. Crissi didn't seem to notice my party-pooper attitude at her surprise birthday party on Friday. Chris and Linda both reached out to me in their own unique ways. Don was just . . . Don. I love each of these people. I am so fortunate to attend a church with people like them in the congregation!

*Stephanie--She's willing to spend long periods of time either talking to me or IMing me. She's even willing to make the both of us laugh, despite her cold which makes it painful to do so. She's also willing to be patient with me as we slowly evolve this plan to visit Merci in Utah soon.

*Leoney--For being my 4th Lucentio, but being the one who will stick it out! Thanks, buddy! He's also encouraging me a lot. It means a lot to me, fraternal initial twin!

*Kelly--Loved your postcard! I adore getting "real mail" and it was fun to get a snippet of what was going on in you life then!

*Esther--Who keeps trying to entice me to move to Boston to be her roommate through postcards. The poem was hysterical, and my immense jealousy at her being so close to PEI recently has made me really consider taking the plunge and being a travel companion.

*Chris W.--Always encouraging, positive, and supportive of me. For being okay with me drenching your shoulder with my tears. For making me laugh and feel good about myself. For always telling me the truth, even when it sucks. For listening to the truth, even when it sucks. For spending time with me. For reading with me. For never losing faith in me.

*God--For sending me rough patches that force me to grow spiritually, emotionally, in character, and in maturity. For giving me so many amazing friends; I know I'm blessed and don't deserve them. For allowing me to lean on Him any time of the day or night. For reassuring me that I will be taken care of. For loving me, unconditionally. For comforting me.

Now that I'm done with sounding like a book dedication, I shall reveal what you're all dying to know. The title of this post comes from the song "How to Succeed" from the musical How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying.

Summertime and the livin' is easy

Mmmm . . . I felt so drained from school, that last week's relaxing has thoroughly refreshed me. Unfortunately it cannot last, but for now . . . mmmm. I love taking walks. Reading. Napping. Not worrying about school.

Although I had to go in and do yearbook stuff in addition to my cleaning the classroom. That's all done, though! Woo-hoo pour moi!

I've got all of my stuff turned in to both the Carson City School District and the Douglas County School District. Yup, I'm going public, baby! To be paid more (provided I get a job) would be a wonderful thing indeed. To recieve benefits would be a wonder beyond imagination. To get paid extra for extracurricular activites would be divine.

And, I've got a good lead! Last week, I got a voicemail from the principal at Pau-Wa-Lu Middle School in Minden! She pulled my application out from their files (I applied to the district when I first moved here) and apparently liked what she saw. Her Drama teacher is leaving, and so she screened the applications, choosing 3 candidates for the position--and I was one of them! I went to the school yesterday and they interviewed me then (though I wasn't expecting it!). The current drama teacher showed me around the stage briefly as well as the classroom. I'll find out at the end of the week whether or not I'll move on in the interview process. I feel okay about how I did. I'm hoping I did well. I don't feel like I loused anything up, though. The interview itself lasted about an hour and a half or so. I was there for 2 hours. They also may need me to teach summer school this year. We shall see . . . I must say, I hope it works out, though.

So that is all that is happening in my life to date. Lovely laziness. Interviews. Shrew rehearsals. My internet being the slowest, most frustrating thing ever since I came back from the Jesse's. It took me 20 minutes to find out I had no e-mails the other day. Urgh!

The title of this post comes from the song "Summertime" from the only opera the Gershwin brothers wrote, Porgy and Bess.