To Live Is To Love

You all know I am a lover of Broadway shows. I’ve blogged about my obsession with Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical and the Jack Kelly debate that I ... once and for all ... put to rest in my Newsies blog. If you follow me on Twitter you know I loved Murder Ballad and ...well ... would have killed to have been able to see it for a third time. You know what though? I’m anti-violence, so I fell in love this week with Once. 

Yes. I finally went to this Tony-winning musical. For months my parents have been like, “Can you stop seeing the same musicals over-and-over again and go see Once? It’s supposed to be good!” First off ... I don’t think “good” is a word to even describe this show. I think I used the words “breathtakingly beautiful” in a Tweet I posted. 

I really did fall in love with Once. I really did get that excited, pit in the stomach feeling you get when you’re falling in love with someone. Okay, yes ... y’all are rolling your eyes and calling me “weirdo.” That’s okay. I’m used to people calling me weird. But seriously ... who doesn’t like a bar that’s on stage??! That was the first sign I knew I was in for a good evening. Since I was sitting in the mezzanine I didn’t have the time to venture on stage for my whiskey sour. I got to the theatre just in time for the curtain to rise. When that curtain did go up (figuratively speaking cause there isn’t one) I found myself enjoying the simplicity of this show and in awe of its very talented cast. I can only imagine what a rush it must be for them to not only be able to act, but play their instruments. Steve Kazee just left me speechless. It was just awe-inspiring to watch him as Guy.  It wasn’t just Steve. The entire cast was just incredible. There were moments that just took my breath away like no other musical had done before. As Act I ended, I really was “Falling Slowly” in love with the story being told on stage. At the end of the show I was a puddle of tears. What Guy says is true. “To live you have to love.” 

After two weeks of working on stories about the tragedy in Newtown and the mall shooting in Oregon ... you just need to breathe ... and remember to love. As I worked tonight, I tried to sprinkle some love into my lineup and find some stories in the U.S. about love. It’s one of the things I enjoy the most about my job ... the ability to find those happy stories and the opportunity to share them with people across the country. Because despite all the tragedy ... there is love that comes from tragedy. I saw it in the girl who held a school-wide toy drive for the students of Sandy Hook Elementary School. I saw it in all the #SIP pics tweeted last weekend from casts of shows on Broadway. I see it every day in the little things people do for one another. 

So, as we begin this holiday weekend (Merry Christmas to those of you celebrate) ... remember to smile ... live ... and love. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cb6-HdfvWZQ

The Gift Of Giving

Tis the season for giving. The air is crisp, fairy lights twinkle brightly, the sound of Salvation Army bell ringers echo across the country. It’s the holidays ... a typically celebratory time of year. That’s not always true though. For some, the holidays are reminders of people they’ve lost. For others, it’s a reminder of what they don’t have. They watch the people shopping and are reminded of the home they can’t fill because they don’t have one. Maybe it was taken by Hurricane Sandy. Maybe tough times forced them to foreclose. That’s why it’s important ... not just during the holidays ... but all year ... to remember to give. It doesn’t have to be in money. You can give in so many more ways than with cash donations. It can be by giving that sad looking child on the corner a smile. Maybe you have leftover food you know that will just sit in the fridge but could sit comfortably in the stomach of someone who is hungry. Maybe your gift of giving is in the conversation you have with a stranger you’d usually rush by to get to work. Maybe your gift is the time you give to the charity you love or the people you love. Maybe your gift is one you share with an audience in a theatre. Every day we can share a gift. Sometimes the best gift you can give is free. The gift of friendship, I for one, am always thankful for. 

It’s been just over one year since I moved here. I am thankful for many things. The opportunities I’ve come across, the people I’ve met, the new friends I’ve made ... the doors that have opened ... the ones that have shut. The gift to just be able to live in this amazing city. I am also thankful for you. Those of you who read this blog. I know a lot of you are my friends or family. But some of you may not be. So thank you everyone for allowing me to share my sometimes coo coo stories. I leave you with a link to one story I wrote just before I moved here. No, it’s not “Pantyhose vs Tights.” That blog did make me laugh and was inspired by one of you ... but .... 

http://theworldaccordingtojaz.blogspot.com/2011/11/footprints-in-sand.html

Once and for All

Okay, here I go. My first Newsies blog! I figured since I’ve seen the show 4 times ... I need to blog about it. I mean Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical still has my heart, but most of my friends know I’m a big Fansie of Newsies too. 

So tonight, I’m going to blog about competing with yourself and not comparing yourself to others. I had an incident last week that just made my blood boil. It’s taken me nearly a week ... this musical ... and a friend ... to remind me that your competition is with yourself. Stop comparing yourself to others! I mean who doesn’t compare themselves (at some point) to other girls, co-workers, etc. In this case I’m talking about actors. The talented Jeremy Jordan and Corey Cott. They play Jack Kelly in the musical. Okay. First off ... don’t crumple up your New York World’s or Journal’s in preparation to throw them at me. This isn’t “The World Will Know!” I think the world already knows how fantastically fabulous the cast of Newsies is. However, I did find myself comparing the two Jack Kelly’s when Corey took over for Jeremy. I mean, how could you not? I only saw Jeremy in one performance before he left the show. His rendition of “Santa Fe” had me in tears. Needless to say, I had high expectations of Corey when the torch was passed to him. I was impressed, but found myself immediately comparing him to Jeremy. I know, I know! I shouldn’t have done that. It’s not fair. But how can you not?! Afterwards, someone asked me who was better. I answered what was my opinion at the time. I love them both, but Jeremy just won me over with “Santa Fe.”

I’ve seen Corey three times now as Jack Kelly. He’s won me over as well. Both Jeremy and Corey bring different things to the character of Jack. So, “Once and for All” I’m putting this subject to rest. I love them both. Corey was brilliant today. The whole cast was. They always are. They always leave the audience with “Something to Believe In.” 

“The Bottom Line” is that while it’s natural to compare ourselves to others ... it’s what we bring to the table that matters. We all have at least one story to tell. For example, we all can tell a story about our first day of school. However, we all tell it differently. We all bring something unique to the story. The story begins with us all getting on a school bus and ends with everyone getting off of it. It’s what we tell in-between ... and how we tell it ... that makes each story special.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-J_89Suw1yE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJak1ekcndE&feature=related

Turning On The Light

“She knows who she is. She just forgot for a while.” -- Donald Miller

 As I sit home, sick, I’ve had time to think today. My week began with some much very needed days off in Nebraska. I was visiting my best friend. One of a few friends that has seen me on my craptastic days and on my best days. The days where I’ve lost my way on the path of life. I’ve never been really great at directions. Just ask anyone ... especially my parents. They’ve never forgotten the one time I got lost in Evanston. I was driving and had gotten to the lake and couldn’t figure out where to go next. So I call them up on the cell and tell them I’m at the lake and ask where to go next. They’re answer, “Turn around. You can’t go any farther.”

But I’m diverting. I’ve been home resting and found a video I made of my apartment. I’ve been in New York, in this apartment, for nearly a year. It was a video I made to show my parents and close friends my new place. Let’s just say my closet was a lot emptier. It’s a bit more ... umm, what’s the word I’m looking for? Fuller? As I looked into my closet I reflected on the past year. The closet is full of work clothes I brought with me from Chicago, comfy clothes I bought at boutiques around Brooklyn, and a couple of Priscilla Queen of the Desert t-shirts. 

If you’ve read my very early blog posts ... my journey to New York hit a few snags. I’ve made some pit stops on my way here. My first attempt at trying to get to New York three years ago had failed. Since I wasn’t moving to New York I moved to Chicago to my family and to a wonderful job at WGN. The path to New York had been blocked, but another path had opened up and led me back home.  While I was blessed to have a job I really enjoyed with great people ... and thankful to be closer to my family ... I often felt like I was in a cave that first year in Chicago. I felt that I'd lost my way on the path of life ... that I wasn’t being the best version of me. I still feel that way every now and again. I’m sure some of you do too. When I didn’t make it to New York ... I forgot what my purpose was. I don’t mean my purpose as my fate, or my destiny, or the part that’s been created by some greater being. I mean a purpose I create for myself. A life that I want to lead and the person I want to be at the end of it. Every now and again I wake up in a darkened room and can’t quite see the direction I’m supposed to be heading. Deep down I know who I am and I know where I’m supposed to be ... but because I didn’t see the light right when I woke up ... I feel like I have to spend the rest of the day stumbling about in the dark trying to find a way to flip it back on. Sometimes I find it, but sometimes it takes someone else or something else to turn it back on. 

So thank you to everyone who have flipped my switch on over the years. From my parents, my grandma, my oldest and dearest friends, to my bestest friend ... to new friends ... to those who have touched my life just by being you.

I think it’s safe to say I know who I am. I just forgot for a little while. And maybe one day ... I can flip your switch back on... just like you have mine.

Are You Ready, Boots?

“Congratulations! The next few months will bring you all sorts of good fortune and opportunities. Your only problem will be spotting such goodies when they come along and knowing what to do with them. Be prepared to take risks, to accept the challenges that come along and to take a philosophical approach to whatever life brings you. The coming year will be quite an eye-opener!”

That was one of my horoscope’s this week. Yeah, I’m one of those people. I don’t really believe in them. I do think they’re fun to read. I also like to see if anything it brings up comes true. If anyone is curious, I’m an Aquarius.

Anyway, it’s been a week of reflecting for me. This is the time of year in the Jewish calendar for atoning, celebrating, and reflecting as we begin a New Year.  It’s been a busy, but good year. It’s been challenging, but challenges teach us things about ourselves. I’m still wondering what the part about goodies and what to do with them will mean. However, the horoscope wraps up the past couple of months for me. The challenges. The good fortune. The opportunities. 

I’m getting a couple of amazing opportunities in October. One is work related. The other is happening today. I’m flying to Chicago for (30 hours) because I won a contest! First off ... I don’t really win contests. I’ve won one other. I wasn’t picked to play Bozo’s Buckets when I was little. I never win scratch-off tickets. I haven’t won any lotteries for Broadway shows. But, I felt like I won the jackpot when I won the contest to go see the final dress rehearsal of Kinky Boots The Musical! My friend, Alicia, was with me when I got the good news via Twitter. I think she thought I was a bit coo-coo for cocoa puffs when I started jumping up and down and repeatedly saying, “Oh my god! Oh my god!” She was good sport about it and it was nice to share good news with someone in person and not electronically. If you haven’t noticed from past blogs I’m a bit of a Broadway fan. Kinky Boots The Musical always was a show I planned to see. In addition, former Priscilla Queen of the Desert cast member and the seriously talented Ellyn Marie Marsh is in it! So a special shout-out and BIG thank you to her and Kinky Boots for giving Broadway lovers the chance to go see the final dress rehearsal for the show before it opens up in Chicago this week. I can’t tell you how excited I am to see my parents, meet a Tweep of mine, meet Ellyn and everyone ...and be one of the first people to see this show. 

I may be running on fumes after a night of work. I’ll be coming home Monday morning to a long, 14 hour work day ... but this is just one opportunity that wasn’t meant to be passed up. I mean my horoscope was right about the opportunities. #Blessed. So I’ll be putting on my boots (sorry, they’re not kinky boots, just Uggs)and hopping a plane for a fast trip home in an hour or so. See you in Chicago! 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cUmw5qn-AI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1BlejP2oeT0

A Practically Perfect Day

Hello everyone! It’s another late night/early morning blog. I’m sensing an unhealthy trend here. LOL Anyway, I was going to spend my afternoon seeing one musical ... which I did ... but wound up seeing two!  I made it a Disney Day! I mean, I do work for Mickey Mouse! I did, indeed, pass Mickey on the way to see Newsies. Let me tell you. My headline for that show would be, “A Cast With Wicked Talent,” or “The Best Dancing On Broadway.” I mean wow!! I mean wow! Did I say, wow? I mean everyone was amazing and Jeremy Jordan ... well what a performer. What an uber talented guy. He brings just such great heart to the role of Jack Kelly. Anyway, if you live in New York go see it. I mean you know I love my Priscilla Queen of the Desert... but Newsies nearly ties with Priscilla for being my favorite show. 

Speaking of Priscilla, I figured I’d go home after the matinee and rest after what was a long an emotionally taxing week. But, I thought to myself, “Why not make it a Disney Day and go see Mary Poppins and former Priscilla cast member Jeff Metzler! I’ve seen Mary Poppins before. I had second row seats two years ago. Everyone was like, “With all the Broadway shows, that’s what you picked!??” Whatever! I love it! It holds a special place in my heart. It was during that trip to New York I started thinking about finally just going after my dreams and moving here. Two songs in that show touched me that night. “Feed The Birds” and “Anything Can Happen.” The lyrics to both those songs just spoke to me. They still do. When I heard them again tonight it brought me back to two years ago .... and to the hard decision to try, for the umpteenth time, to move to NY. 

This week was a rough one for me. It was an emotional roller coaster rider. My car fell off the tracks a couple of times, but luckily I was belted in. Teachings from Mary Poppins was just what I needed to regain a bit of perspective. While I didn’t have a Spoon Full of Sugar during the show, I did have a bag full of sugar-filled candy corn. I munched on the sugary treat and watched Mary Poppins and remembered ... anything can happen if you let it.

I’ve included links to the two songs below. If you haven’t seen Mary Poppins the Musical and want to see a show ... see it. It’s not just on Broadway! Mary is dropping in on cities all across the U.S. as part of the National Tour. While Mary is taking flight all over ... you can only see Jeff Metzler here. Jeff, if you are reading this ... you were Practically Perfect. ;)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pzgf4HDeCXI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0adpbKfIp0I

**For those of you reading my blog for the first time “The Yellow Brick Road” entry I wrote last year talks more about me and me decision to move to The Big Apple.

Cancer, Caring and Hope

Well everyone. I should be sleeping but am unable to. So, when I moan and groan about my long days and how tired I am ... this is partially why. I typically don’t go out on nights before I work 14 hour days. However, this was for a good cause and I actually wasn’t working. I attended Cancers Expensive: A Benefit. It was a fundraiser for Broadway star, Carly Jibson’s, mother.  Carly’s mother has cancer but no insurance.

The night was full of amazing music, stories and hope. I’ve written about hope and loneliness before. Tonight was a reminder that we truly are not alone and that there is always hope. That a group of people who may not know each other can do some good. That there are people who care. Strangers that will lend a helping hand ... and people to walk beside you when things get rough. 

I work in news. There’s a lot of bad news out there. It’s depressing. It’s usually sad. This benefit was a reminder (to me) that while there is sad news, that frown can be turned upside-down when people take a moment to think of someone other than themselves. Think of that homeless man you walk by who said “hi” to you, but for some reason you just ignored. Think to slow down in the revolving door instead of pushing it faster because some older man is shuffling through too slowly. To think of the people who really have bigger fish to fry than agonizing over what to wear for that day or that their toilet is clogged. To just think of the power that one selfless act can have another person ... even just for a moment.

I went up to Carly afterwards. I don’t know her personally. What I can tell you is that she’s a pretty awesome, strong and talented lady. I just introduced myself ... let her know she and her family were in my thoughts and prayers. I didn’t get much out before I started to get all teary and had to turn away. LOL. I’m a pretty emotional girl. 

Speaking of meeting people ... I met Nick Adams too! He was one of the amazingly talented performers who sang at the benefit. Yes, I was a big dork. My horoscope did say to keep my mouth shut as my words would come out wrong. Well ... whatever. We all know I can be dorky. That is just who I am. One of my former sorority sisters saw the pic I posted on FB and responded with, “And you NEVER are dorky (CB). :)” 

CB was a KU basketball player that I was a bit coo-coo for cocoa puffs for back in my day. No, I never met him. People were always like, “Out of all the KU basketball players, you gush over a walk-on who never plays!” Whatever! My sorority sisters supported me in my love for him anyway!  One even knocked on his door and asked him to sign a KU basketball for me for my Birthday. I literally died. I think I freaked out and ran around the room and jumped around like I won the lottery. I have no clue where that ball is today. The memory of getting it though is with me forever.

So will the memory of this night. As I finally disconnect and go to bed... I wish everyone a happy, healthy night. And I hope for you a Monday of good things.

The Tortoise and the Hare

It’s a nice Saturday here in Brooklyn but I wouldn’t know it because I went to PT then returned to the comforts of my cozy bed. Let’s just say I’m being reminded today that I am no longer a 20-something gal who can stay out until 4:30 a.m. 

This is why. I went out after work last night to a club in Manhattan called Turtle Bay. Those of you who know me are probably like, “OMG She went out after work!” My hours aren’t exactly bankers hours and I am a homebody. I mean I like going out ... but I typically don’t go to clubs or do anything after work because it’s late. I also like my sleep. So, needless to say, my co-workers .... who have been trying to get me to go out with them for months ... jumped for joy when I said I’d come out of my shell and play with them. You like that? Shell. Turtle. Okay, I digress.

First off. I’ve never been anywhere where you have to wait in a line to get into. This was the first sign that A) I’m old and B) this was going to be fun. I was “creeped” on waiting in line by some Jersey Shore looking guy! Seriously. I think he walked off the MTV show and into the line. I was warned of the “creeping” so I was prepared for it. Let’s just say the guy really was creepy. Once inside Turtle Bay, we had a fab time. Sticky floors, good music, drinks, dancing, people on the bar ... all good things. There were moments where I had flashbacks to my college years going to The Granada in Lawrence, Kansas. We all need nights like that every so often. Nights to remember that it’s okay to just have fun and not worry about work and stuff. AND (yes, mom I’m starting a sentence with “and”) it was really nice to be able to do a little dancing. My leg is hurting today, but it held up as we all Shook Our Groove Thing. Okay, digressing to Priscilla Queen of the Desert again. I didn’t get creeped on too much once we were inside. I was asked my age. I definitely don’t look like a 30-something-year-old. People’s jaws usually drop when I tell them how old I am. So it was nice to hear, “You look amazing.” It was nice to get out and do something that’s out of the box for me. 

However, today, I’m back in my shell and moving slow like a turtle. So thanks Turtle Bay and my friends for reminding me to be Hare. Gosh, that was a good book. “The Tortoise and the Hare."

Time to go get a manicure/pedicure. And there I am ... digressing again. Happy Saturday everyone.

"Everyone is someone's friend, even when they think they are all alone."

It’s amazing that in a city of more than 8 million people that you can feel lonely .... but I think a city highlights one’s loneliness. I base that belief on my experiences living in all different parts of the country. I live alone, and typically don’t feel alone. I have a small group of friends and family that are always a Skype session, text, or phone call away. So, I don’t know if what I’ve been feeling is loneliness or isolation. I know I’m on orders to be off the feet and “resting,” but it’s just kinda ... well lonely ... especially in a fairly new city. I’m an only child so I don’t mind doing things alone or being alone, but it’s times like this ... where in a city of more than 8 million people ... there are moments you just feel alone. Whether it’s the cute couple sitting at the table next to you or if you’re sitting at the park watching a family picnic. We have all those moments. They’re normal to have. 

I never really felt lonely growing up. As an only child I had to be creative. When I felt alone I’d tape record a radio show with my Cabbage Patch Kids. OMG the tapes! Where are they? You would laugh your booty off if you heard them. Let’s just say my “shows” were hilarious, and a bit weird. I had voices for my Cabbage Patch Kids! I was also a “spy.” I had a neighbor with, like, 8 kids. I used to take out binoculars and “spy” on them. Yeah, it sounds creepy but it was harmless. Let’s just say I was big into Harriet The Spy books. I did read a lot. I also did a lot of dancing in the basement of our duplex to keep occupied. 

As I’ve gotten older I’ve found it more difficult to deal with my moments of loneliness ... especially when it’s hard to do something on your own about it. The things I typically would do to kick my butt out of the “stop feeling mopey, lonely ” moments I am unable to do right now. I’m stuck indoors, for the most part, trying my hardest to do what I’m asked by doctors and physical therapists, before a much anticipated and much needed mini vacation that luckily will require me to do a lot of nothing. I’ve been doing a lot of “RICE:” Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. I’d rather be at work, dance, pilates or just outside living life. I miss the subway. It’s not normal for me to be in a car ABOVE ground. It reminds me that I’m temporarily sidelined. I miss living life in general. 

Those who know me know I always try to find the positive in things. So here it is. On the upside ... being sidelined has allowed me to be grateful and more appreciative of the every day activities that I may sometimes complain about. I now understand how Facebook and Twitter can make someone jealous of other people’s lives. I mean I love seeing how you all are doing, but it also reminds me of what I’m unable to temporarily do. However, it also reminds me that life is waiting for me to get back on the roller coaster of work, dating, subway riding, dance, pilates classes, Broadway-show-going, symphony listening “normal” life. That this is just a temporary blip. I'm going to leave y'all with a favorite movie song of mine. It reminds me the sun will come out ...  that you're never fully dressed without a smile ... and that I have to buy tickets to the musical. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFKFE_fsbb4

http://anniethemusical.com/?gclid=CI7O3N7a1LECFYfe4AodVCkAsQ

Snap! Crackle! Pop!

Michael Jordan once said, “My body could stand the crutches but my mind couldn’t stand the sideline.” That couldn’t be more true! Let’s just say I hurt myself last night. If you follow me on Twitter you probably saw the annoying number of Tweets about what happened and “What should I do?” My poor friend Heidi had to deal with my texts too. Let’s just say I’m not the best patient. I hate being sidelined. I had hope for my Monday to be a great, busy day. A start of something new and back to work after a very relaxing weekend. It all came to an end though when I heard “Snap, Crackle, Pop!” Nope. It wasn’t one of my favorite cereals calling out to me to eat. It was something in my calf that had me crumble to the ground! Seriously ... this is not the kind of pain I would wish on anyone. I couldn’t move! Needless to say I wasn’t prepared for this little medical mishap. My ABC Emergency kit doesn’t include ice. Everyone was telling me to go to the hospital, but I really could not move. I really did try. I really did fail to do so. So, I woke up able to hobble and went to the ER bright and early this morning. The doctors sidelined me and told me to call an orthopedic surgeon in a few days if things are the same. I hate just sitting. I never used to mind it, but on days where I have plans or have places to be it kills me. The doctors told me to stay home for at least two days. I called out for at least one. Being the stubborn optomist that I am ... I’m hoping to able to be out and about tomorrow with my crutches (that I still am learning how to handle). However, everyone keeps telling me that that is a very bad idea. That I should stay home at least one more day.

So Monday was a start of something new for me. A temporary life with my crutches. LOL Let’s just say I am not enjoying them and am glad this is just a temporary dilemma.  I have a new found respect for those with disabilities. 

So for now, no dance for me. No pilates. I’ll have to find some new creative ways to stay fit. Maybe I’ll buy Richard Simmons “Reach for Fitness-A Special Video of Excercises for the Physically Challenged.” It’s ... oh heck no! $30 and VHS!!  Hmmm .... I’ll find some other way to keep fit as my injury heals.

In the meantime, a special “thank you” to all who have inquired about how I’m doing and have offered words of wisdom. A special thank you to my landlord and his wife for all their help as well. It’s nice to know that even though you are all alone in your apartment ... you are not truly alone. Now I’m going to practice what the guy in the video below is able to do with his crutches. AMAZING! I like all the kung-fu type moves in the beginning. I can use them as ways to ward off the crazies on the train! 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OasVtpPcjWg

In Full Bloom

Well hello “Fuck Yeah Nick Adams,” Nick, and those who read my blog. This is a special blog entry for a very special cause. The “In Full Bloom” A Benefit Concert For The Wishing Kids Foundation is August 6 at the Birdland in NYC. I had thought I’d be able to go to support this great organization and see some amazing performances (Go Nick!). So, I purchased tickets. Then I learned I’d have to work the night of the event. That’s how the gluten-free cookie crumbles sometimes. So I turned my frown upside-down and turned my disappointment into something positive.

I’m not allowed to send in a video for the Biggest Fan Contest that “Fuck Yeah Nick Adams” is having ...well, they know why.  However, it’s fun watching the entries come in! So far there are only two. They look fab! For those who are on the fence and are a bit shy about submitting a video about why they’re Nick’s biggest fan ...well, I get it. I just had a flashback to my Bat Mitzvah video ... when the videographer (who looked like Jack Wagner) asked me to say something about the day. Um, let’s just say I was one big dork! I laugh hysterically at myself and the things I did and said when I watch the video. I remember doing some weird chicken dance, talking about my “ditto blaster,” and saying words like “cool.” I also remember my dress. It had a Priscilla hot pink bottom that poofed out. However, being a little dorky at times is who I am. That’s what I celebrate the most about Nick.

I wouldn’t say I’m Nick’s biggest fan because I’m sure his mom is. I moved to New York in December, so I’m a bit behind on supporting Nick through his career. I never got to see some of the shows he’s been in, like Chicago and Guys and Dolls. I didn't live here. I am a Nick fan though. Being who you are is something that I think makes Nick, Nick. I haven’t met him yet, and hopefully one day will. But through his vlogs and stories I’ve read  ... he seems like a guy who inspires people to just celebrate who they are ... someone who has worked hard to be where he his ... and someone who is very grateful to those who support him and have helped him on his journey through life .. and someone who gives back.

Okay, that was cheesy. Yes, I am one to celebrate my cheesy-ness. Just ask my friends. I don’t care how cheesy I am. It’s what makes me, me. We all express who we are in different ways. Some of us do it on camera. Some of us put it in writing. Some do it in front of hundreds of people on Broadway or in an orchestra hall.  Some people do it in the way they give back to their community or to charities they donate to.

The “In Full Bloom” A Benefit Concert For The Wishing Kids Foundation is just around the corner. The Wishing Kids Foundation is an organization that provides a sense of comfort and support (financially, etc) for those fighting cancer or other terminal illnesses. I know cancer has, unfortunately, been part of many people’s lives in some way, shape or form. Together, we can help fight cancer ... and help make the lives better for those battling illness and their families. No, this isn’t a pitch to go donate to this organization. This is just a little blog in honor of a great organization ... and to Nick ... and to people like him who have touched people’s lives in one way, shape or form.

So... “Fuck Yeah Nick Adams” followers .... go make your video! As Madonna would say, “Express Yourself.”

The Call

It’s 3:30am and I should be going to bed after what was a long day. However, I figured I’d check email quickly. I found a cute link a friend of mine had e-mailed me. It was of this little girl calling 9-1-1. Her dad was having chest pains. Don’t worry. The dad lives and the kid is too cute! I finished watching it and had a huge smile on my face. Then YouTube had listed a bunch of videos from September 11, 2001. The smile quickly faded. The videos included 9-1-1 calls of people who died in the Twin Towers that horrific day.

I knew I didn’t want to click and listen to these calls, but I was interested and wanted to hear a recording. So I hit the first call and listened to the man’s ... this father’s ... this husband’s final moments. I thought about his family and the dispatcher on the other end of the line. It just broke my heart into a million pieces. Then I realized. I’ll be here on September 11th. I haven’t been to the 9/11 Memorial yet. No real reason. I know I will go at some point to pay my respects to the heroes and to the fallen. Then I thought it was weird that I haven’t been. Then I thought, “weird.” I was on the train coming home this morning and was sitting across from a guy. He had an odd, cylinder-like bag, with a lock on it that I found a bit unusual. What was weird was the first thing I thought. I thought, “What's in that bag and will it go off?” It’s the first time since I lived here that I thought about terrorism in New York City. I mean we hear it on the subway all the time ... the announcement about keeping our eyes open for suspicious activity and reporting it.  I looked at the bag and watched this guy’s behavior (which was nothing unusual). Then, I noticed something. The guy next to him was watching him too!  After a few minutes the guy sitting next to him went back to listening to his music and I went back to watching the time pass. 

Time ... time that many of us take for granted at some point in our lives. Time, that we should remember ... could run out at any moment ... for any one of us. So as I wrap up this somber blog entry ... let’s remember not to take for granted the things in life ... the people in our lives  ... the time. For me. It’s time to go to bed ... and time to say a prayer for all the angels watching over us.

"Time is passing. Yet, for the United States of America, there will be no forgetting September the 11th. We will remember every rescuer who died in honor. We will remember every family that lives in grief. We will remember the fire and ash, the last phone calls, the funerals of the children." -President George W. Bush, November 11, 2001

"Even the smallest act of service, the simplest act of kindness, is a way to honor those we lost, a way to reclaim that spirit of unity that followed 9/11." -President Barack Obama

"9/11 was a reminder that the bonds of family can be severed in an instant. They are essential, crucial, valuable, fragile." -Peter Jennings, late news anchor of ABC's World News Tonight

The Eleventh Of September
Written by Roger J. Robicheau ©2002
The Poetic Plumber www.thepoeticplumber.com

We mourn their loss this day this year
Those now with God, no danger near

So many loved ones left do stand
Confronting loss throughout our land

My heart goes out to those who do
No one can fathom what they view

I firmly pray for peace of mind
Dear God please help each one to find

And to our soldiers now at war
God guide above, at sea, on shore

They are the best, I have no doubt
Our country’s pride, complete, devout

The finest force you’ll ever see
All freedom grown through liberty

One final thought comes clear to me
For what must live in infamy

Absolutely - We’ll Remember
The Eleventh - Of September

I Will Survive

The confetti has dropped, the glitter is gone, the Mac Red has been wiped off everyone’s lips ... but the memories will stay put forever. No number of wipes can wipe those away!

I think most of my friends and family will be happy to hear me not constantly talk about, or post links, and photos about the show and its cast. Anyway, I was tempted to go see a Broadway show tonight. However, I’m having some Priscilla withdrawal. I was told not to go see a show and to just relax. So, what have I been doing instead on this rainy day? I’ve been on Twitter way too much. I’ve been Tweeting about how the bus will be making a pit-stop in The Windy City! I’ve told my friends and family there that I’ll throw a Jimmy Choo at them if they don’t go see it! I’m sure Priscilla will also “Go West” and colour everyones world out there too. Everyone knows it for sure “Colour(ed) My World.”  

In any case ... the show was “Hot Stuff” last night and everyone shook their groove thing. For us Priscilla fans ... we will survive! We will continue to support the fabulously talented cast as they take on new projects.  And, while us fans screamed “Don’t Leave Us This Way ...” the memories, music and message of Priscilla will always be on our minds.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AI2JaaLOBUw&list=HL1340674876&feature=mh_lolz

Queen Of The Desert

Hello! It’s 11:34 p.m. and I am home from seeing Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical for the 4th time in less than two weeks. Okay. I’m pausing for reaction ... of any kind ...as I know there has been a wide variety from my friends.  I’m at the point of not caring if you think I’m wasting money or should be doing other things. At the moment ... this musical makes me smile. 

As I took the “Q” train home to Brooklyn ... I remembered, the last musical that impacted me this much was Les Miserables. I was in high school and it was the song “Stars” that for some reason ...  touched me. I can’t explain. I wish I kept a copy of the my entrance essay to Boston University as to why that song shaped my essay. More than 10 years later I can’t answer that. I do know that that musical ...  and song ... hold a special place in my heart.

So as I settled into my fourth seat at The Palace Theatre ... I was surrounded by tourists who were quite fun! I sat the closest to the stage I have ever sat before as well! It was truly a good time!  The four people behind me were mostly from London. Two had gotten married in Australia and the rest were just family who were like, “Hey! Let’s go to the U.S.! It’s been too long!” 

The couple next to me had a daughter that wasn’t able to come to the show because she had a migraine. That made me sad. All asked me if I had seen the show. Naturally, I said yes. That it was my 4th time and that the musical just was a great show. The actors/singers/dancers are magnificent!  The fact that for one of the stars ... it’s their first leading role ... makes it even more grand! Plus, it's just a show with real heart. Plus, it makes me very happy to see someone reach a goal of theirs. To be able to witness that part of someone’s life ... in some small way ... is fun and inspirational to watch.

People always ask me, “Why do you get so excited when you talk about Broadway? You’ve seen national tours of shows in Chicago.” Yes.  I have seen some great shows in Chicago full of talented people. I have my parents to thank for that. They took me to see some fab show growing up. But, for me ... seeing a show on Broadway makes me tingle with excitement for those on the stage. There is a different kind of energy. And ...for those who know me ... I suck at acting. You know that. I hate being in front of any camera! I did news on the radio because I could hide behind a microphone!  So I’ve always admired anyone who could get their booty on stage in front of people and “Shake Their Groove Thing” or do anything.

So for me ...seeing these actors on Broadway ... it’s hard to explain. You can see it. You can feel that they LOVE what they do. That inspires me. Not because I don’t love what I do. I am happy and grateful to be where I am. I don’t always love my job. I can’t name one person who has always loved their job. But ... for me ... you can see these men and women are truly grateful for where they are. They got to where they are after years of training and hard work. I couldn’t be prouder of them. 

AND ... I couldn't’ be prouder to say I am going to the closing of Priscilla on the 24th of June.  So thank you to my parents. They were coming to town in the last weekend of May and suggested seeing the show. The Book of Mormon was too expensive (Yes. I do want to see that musical at some point). Thanks mom and dad for introducing me to yet another fantabulous musical. I couldn’t feel anymore privileged or lucky to be able to see a show on Broadway that has meant so much to me. I know some haven’t had the opportunity to even see any show on Broadway. So, I don’t take it lightely when I say it’ll be 5 times I get to see th original Priscilla cast on Broadway! I have never done that for a show before. So ... to the cast and crew of Priscilla Queen of the Desert The Musical ... thank you! Thank you ... Nick, Tony and Will ... and everyone involved in the production. As the Londoner’s behind me kept tapping my shoulder and saying, “Brilliant! Just brilliant!”

  

Single In The City

There are days like today when I get that warm, fuzzy feeling ... that, “Gosh. I’m in New York” feeling. I stepped off the Subway at 14th Street and just got that feeling. It’s hard to explain, but it’s a feeling I only get in New York. It’s also a feeling that when I get it, I enjoy it. 

What I also enjoyed today was brunch. I had fun reading and watching everyone walk by ... until it started raining and I had to move inside. Here’s the part which makes being single in the city kinda sting. Nearly everyone around me (and this was a big restaurant) was with a boyfriend or on double dates!

Now, as most of my friends and family know ... “I” would like to be a “we.” I don’t want to be an “I” forever. Though the letter “i” does kick off the word “independent.”  (Insert me winking here).

Well, I have been on a number of dates since moving here. Some have been good and some have been bad. People are always like “You’re too picky. Why aren’t you married? You’re in a city with thousands of people! What’s your problem? You waited too long and now all the good ones are off the market!” For those of you who are off the market ... finding love has become something equivalent to becoming a Jedi Knight. I bet you didn’t know there are years of psychological and physical training (i.e.: going to the gym and shopping for that perfect date outfit). Anyway, sometimes I wish I had a light-saber! 

So, I’m going to try and change my tactics a bit and start doing more activities. These are activities where I can also meet new people while not looking like I’m looking. Did that make sense? It did to me so .... 

Granted, my work hours mean most evenings are out of the question for me ... but that’s typically been the case. The hours present a different kind of challenge. However, I’m in the city that never sleeps. I have no excuse. In New York, if it’s night there’s a nightlife, and when there’s life ... as optimists like me will be happy to tell you ... there’s always hope. I guess that’s a big part of being single. Hope. Friends. And making sure you get out of your apartment!

Happy Mother's Day!

Roses are Red.

Violets are Blue.

My Mother is the Best

Out of all the Rest.

I’m sure I must have written that in a Mother’s Day card for my mom when I was a kid. We all think our mother is the best. All Mom’s are special to their children ... but my mom ... while she sometimes drives me coo coo (like all mom’s do to their children at some point) ... is truly one of the most selfless people I know. 

She’s never once told me not to do something and has always had faith in me. She’s passed down her love of reading, her passion for quirky things, her card sending, her strength, her love of shopping and her ability to love. Growing up, she (and my dad) repeatedly told me how hard you try and work is what really counts. My mom was always at my school assemblies during the day ... helping set up for school dances ...  or driving me places. She has always left me “welcome home” messages on my answering machine. We've even road tripped from city to city as I moved about the country from Kansas to Albuquerque, to Green Bay and Palm Springs.

When I think of my mom and favorite memories of her during my childhood ... I think of the following.

1. Her baking banana nut bread for the crossing guard and mailman
2. Going to Crown Books to pick up Cliff Notes, Sweet Valley High and Satin Slippers books
3. My first manicure
4. Hebrew School
5. Smurfs and Cabbage Patch Kids
6. Quick Beef Buns
7. Going to Market Days
8. Doing homework as she graded papers
9. Listening to “Hooked On Classics” and “The Oldies” in the car
10. Going to Taco Bell for tacos and Pinto’s in Cheese

All the above are just some of the memories that stick out of me and my mother when I was growing up in Skokie.

So mom, thank you for everything you do. I’ll always be your best girl ... your “baby.” No matter what you think, you are always in my thoughts and in my heart ...  no matter where I am.  

Thank you, Mom’s everywhere, for all you do. While dad may be a super hero .. you are Wonder Woman.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=17dP0QvjsOU

Bedrooms and Bugs in The Big Apple

“Hurt no living thing: Ladybird, nor butterfly, Nor moth with dusty wing”

- Christina Georgina Rossetti

Sorry, Christina ... but I am ignoring that quote. It’s 3am on Saturday morning. I thought I’d be asleep, dreaming about martini’s ... beaches... or who knows what. Instead, I’m sitting up in bed after murdering a centipede.  Those of you who know me know I am not a bug girl. I don’t like camping. I don’t like bees, roaches, ants and have a horrifying fear of spiders. I know they have just as much right to be here as you and I. However, can they please stay outside! 

When I moved to New York I realized that I would have to make some adjustments to my lifestyle. I knew bugs, like cockroaches, are a fact of life living in New York. I haven’t run into them yet (knock on wood). However, over the past few weeks ants and centipedes have decided to make my home their home. I didn’t invite them so I think it’s just rude! I think I’ve handled the uninvited pests pretty well. So what if I call my mom and have her listen to me scream as I drown a nasty centipede or kill a spider! So what if I use three tissues to pick up a dead roly-poly! I think I’ve been pretty good! I’ve even named the light-colored spider in the basement “Charlotte” (though I think I may have sprayed her to death last week as a preventative measure).  I can handle the tiny bugs ... the tiny centipedes. I can’t handle the big ones. I  mean they freak me out! I mean the one in the basement I drowned last week was just blechy!

I digress. To make a very long story short: I couldn’t sleep. I woke up  around 2am to go watch some tv. I flip on the lights and nearly step on a scurrying, BIG, centipede. As the quick moving critter scurried over my freshly cleaned wood floor ... I grabbed my weapon (drum roll) ... my ant/roach spray. I randomly spray under the dresser as that’s where I saw it run. I don’t see anything though and think, “Okay. Jess. You won’t sleep if you don’t kill it.” At that moment I see something under my neatly rolled up pilates mat and take action and spray the crap out of it. The critter jumps onto my weights and under the dresser as I continually spray it (and half my stuff with it). Right now I can hear my dad worrying about my furniture and asking ‘is the spray ruining it?’ To answer your question, “Dad, I cleaned the furniture.” 

In the end the centipede is dead. So I’m sorry Christina Georgina Rossetti. I have hurt a living thing ... but it wasn’t a Ladybird, nor butterfly, Nor moth with dusty wing.”  I hope now I can get some sleep. Please centipede... don’t haunt in my dream. And I am sorry I had to kill you, but I didn’t invite you into my home. 

PS One of my favorite children's books is "A Cricket In Times Square." I highly recommend it and have a copy of it in my apartment.

Homeless, But Not Hopeless

More than 300 million people live in the United States. New York City is home to more than 8 million of those people. Some of those people are homeless. I found an article from 2010 that said 3,111 people were homeless in New York. That was in addition to the nearly 38,000 people who live in shelters. Let me say that again ... 38,000. Does that number bother you? It should. Because everyone should have someone or some place to call home.

I’ve lived in cities and in more suburban areas and the homeless are people I always notice and try to acknowledge ... be it with some food or some money ... or a McDonald’s gift card. But there are people down on their luck for some reason or another. Maybe they lost their job. Maybe they’re back from the war and are just lost. Maybe they were sick and had a lot of medical bills to pay and got evicted. Every homeless person has a story. I always wonder what those stories are. I never really inquire because it’s really none of my business. I smile and ask how they are and move on. 

The one homeless man I saw today didn’t seem “in the right place.” I kinda slithered pass him ... as he cursed and threw punches in the air. But he is a person.. and it bothered me as a guy in front of me pushing a double stroller muttered something under his breath at the homeless man and shook his head. I mean who are we to judge other people’s circumstances. Our lives aren’t perfect. Nobody is perfect. The fact that this man just walked away in such a matter bothered me. It’s like he didn’t care about another human being.

A friend of mine saw a homeless person the other day and it affected her as well. I think the fact that she acknowledged this person’s existence was a good thing ... because it’s when people start not acknowledging those down on their luck that one become de-sensitized. 

A homeless guy I gave a health bar to the other day told me “Homelessness is a state of mind. Homeless is a state of being.” Interesting, I thought.  Then ... as I walked further down the block I passed the same woman I had passed a month ago near work. She had been sitting in front of Starbucks with a sign saying “Homeless, But Not Hopeless.”  This time her sign said, “Homeless But Not Hopeless. I’m waiting to hear back from a job interview.” I hope she got that job. :)