~ When attending Trivia at a super dive bar, white capris, a navy cardigan and pearls may not be appropriate attire - or so I've been informed.
~ Also, as open as I am to all sorts of people, it turns out I'm super judgey when it comes to the type of people that frequent dive bars and dive bars in general. And on an entirely different note, why, God, why would anyone eat the popcorn that's just sitting on the tables in baskets?
~ Finally a Shakespeare question, and it's on Romeo and Juliet? Ugh! My absolute least favorite and one the English teacher at the table hadn't read (how is that possible!?) This particular question lead to some conversation on whether Shakespeare is better when read or performed. It's obviously so much better when you see it live!
~ Questions on Basketball, Hockey and the geographic size of states seemed to be our downfall this evening. What is it about sports and geography that kills us every time?
~ In 1977 Ron Howard directed and starred in a movie called Grand Theft Auto. He was 23 at the time. How is that possible? I can't even direct my car half the time, and he was directing movies?
~ My Modern Family knowledge was better than my Friends knowledge this evening. Fizbo is so much easier to remember than knowing Elle Macpherson was Joey's roommate.
~ It's quite possible to remember all the words to American Pie even when the quiz-dude decides to play the Weird Al - Star Wars version of the song instead.
~ The quiz that I took today that determined my intelligence level was that of someone with a PhD (it's not) did not do too much for me this evening at trivia. However, I was able to reach the answer to a question on Toni Morrison's Beloved 2 seconds before the English teacher, so I'm calling that a win.
Wednesday, May 31, 2017
Tuesday, May 30, 2017
Cheap Eats in the City
This past weekend, I was once again in New York. We were there to see Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and also to do a few other things. Charlie was not as fabulous as I had hoped, but I still haven't decided what I didn't like about it, so I won't be writing about it quite yet. And the fleet week fun we had planned to have down at Pier 86 also didn't exactly work out as planned. So I won't be writing about that either.
What I will say is that we had the cheapest, and one of the best meals I've ever had in the city, thanks to one tiny discovery. I'm not sure why I never realized this, but on 46th street between 8th and 9th Avenues, lies Restaurant Row. The block is chock full of all types of restaurants. There's even a big light-up sign that says Restaurant Row, so I've decided I've been fairly blind this whole time.
Anyway, after ruling out Italian - thought I'll be back for Becco soon, we decided to have Dim Sum. Now I love the idea of Dim Sum, but I've never found a place near me that had it. After chatting with the waitress, we ordered everything she told us too. Honestly, I'm still not sure what we ate, but every last piece - other than the thing that may or may not have been tofu - was positively delicious! The only embarassing part was that I needed to use a fork unlike my friends who were capable of using chopsticks. Once I got razzed about that, I enjoyed the rest of the meal fully.
On top of this amazing meal, when we received the check, we were told that it was happy hour, which meant everything we ordered, including the beer one friend drank, was half price. For 3 of us to stuff ourselves on dumplings was a grand total of $33! How great is that!? The moral of the story is branching out of the comfort zone can be delicious and opening your eyes a little more can be quite helpful!
What I will say is that we had the cheapest, and one of the best meals I've ever had in the city, thanks to one tiny discovery. I'm not sure why I never realized this, but on 46th street between 8th and 9th Avenues, lies Restaurant Row. The block is chock full of all types of restaurants. There's even a big light-up sign that says Restaurant Row, so I've decided I've been fairly blind this whole time.
Anyway, after ruling out Italian - thought I'll be back for Becco soon, we decided to have Dim Sum. Now I love the idea of Dim Sum, but I've never found a place near me that had it. After chatting with the waitress, we ordered everything she told us too. Honestly, I'm still not sure what we ate, but every last piece - other than the thing that may or may not have been tofu - was positively delicious! The only embarassing part was that I needed to use a fork unlike my friends who were capable of using chopsticks. Once I got razzed about that, I enjoyed the rest of the meal fully.
On top of this amazing meal, when we received the check, we were told that it was happy hour, which meant everything we ordered, including the beer one friend drank, was half price. For 3 of us to stuff ourselves on dumplings was a grand total of $33! How great is that!? The moral of the story is branching out of the comfort zone can be delicious and opening your eyes a little more can be quite helpful!
Monday, May 29, 2017
Happy Memorial Day!
Spending the day remembering those that fought for our freedoms and way of life (especially the handsome guy above - my grandfather). Thank you to those that volunteered and to those that were drafted into service. May your sacrifices never be forgotten!
Sunday, May 28, 2017
Busy Week
So I'm beginning to see why so many people prefer Macs to PCs. The main reason I've been off my game on the writing is that my ridiculous laptop decides to have random issues at the most inopportune times. So writing on anything more than an iPad has been challenging.
The sad part is that this week has been chock full of fun things to talk about but telling and showing requires me to get my laptop working or finally break down and buy a keyboard for my iPad. Anyway, like I said earlier this week, I hope to be up and running again soon.
For now, have a lovely evening!
The sad part is that this week has been chock full of fun things to talk about but telling and showing requires me to get my laptop working or finally break down and buy a keyboard for my iPad. Anyway, like I said earlier this week, I hope to be up and running again soon.
For now, have a lovely evening!
Friday, May 26, 2017
Friday Five
1. It's been a rough week full of not feeling very well and lots of work stuff, but I'm hoping to get back on track now that we have a 3 day weekend. The fact that an 8 week course that we've been working on at work is finally over, and that Monday is Memorial Day and work is closed, makes me a very happy girl in deed! Bring on some relaxation and fun!
2. I love, love, love the idea of a Pretty Woman musical. I knew it was coming, but I didn't realize they were this far in the process. Hopefully, they'll cast it with amazing people though for the life of me I don't know who they should get. Based on their description of the Richard Gere part, I'd say David Tennant. Who else do you know that is quite so instantly likable? : )
3. This week in Tony coverage saw the Featured Actresses out for a group lunch at a lovely Midtown restaurant, and the Featured Actors posing for an epic selfie together at the luncheon. At what other award show do you ever see the nominees all pulling for each other like they do in the theatre? It's ridiculously fabulous and uplifting to see!
4. Yes I do know that the Keepers on Netflix is unbelievably disturbing, but I also know that it was ridiculously compelling. I was hooked after the first episode. I'm not sure I buy some of the things that were said, but the researchers really did their homework on this case. And since it doesn't look like the police are investigating, it's a good thing they've invested so much time into finding justice.
5. The fact that vacation is just about a month a way, is giving me everything I need to power through the next month. It's so close I can taste it, however there's so much to do between now and then. I'm just gonna put my head down and get things done, because London is definitely calling...
2. I love, love, love the idea of a Pretty Woman musical. I knew it was coming, but I didn't realize they were this far in the process. Hopefully, they'll cast it with amazing people though for the life of me I don't know who they should get. Based on their description of the Richard Gere part, I'd say David Tennant. Who else do you know that is quite so instantly likable? : )
3. This week in Tony coverage saw the Featured Actresses out for a group lunch at a lovely Midtown restaurant, and the Featured Actors posing for an epic selfie together at the luncheon. At what other award show do you ever see the nominees all pulling for each other like they do in the theatre? It's ridiculously fabulous and uplifting to see!
4. Yes I do know that the Keepers on Netflix is unbelievably disturbing, but I also know that it was ridiculously compelling. I was hooked after the first episode. I'm not sure I buy some of the things that were said, but the researchers really did their homework on this case. And since it doesn't look like the police are investigating, it's a good thing they've invested so much time into finding justice.
5. The fact that vacation is just about a month a way, is giving me everything I need to power through the next month. It's so close I can taste it, however there's so much to do between now and then. I'm just gonna put my head down and get things done, because London is definitely calling...
Monday, May 22, 2017
Stoop Storytelling Fun
This evening I attended the Stoop Storytelling event at Everyman Theatre, and I just have to say that it was funnier than I had even imagined it would be. The theme of the evening - since the Everyman is currently doing Noises Off - was The Show Must Go On. So all 8 performers told a story about doing live theatre. Some were actors, and some were crew but all 8 were hysterically funny.
During intermission, the organizers chose 2 volunteers and gave them 3 minutes to tell their own stories. In instances like this, these volunteers are often not so great. However, the 2 gentlemen that told their stories, were as funny as the performers themselves. They could not have been better chosen for the evening.
All in all, I came away in awe of these performers, and a little jealous that they have the nerve to do something like this while I do not. Even if I could overcome the massive amount of stage fright I have, I wouldn't have a clever story to tell. Maybe I'll work on that piece of the puzzle first. That seems a lot easier than overcoming the fear of people in general...
During intermission, the organizers chose 2 volunteers and gave them 3 minutes to tell their own stories. In instances like this, these volunteers are often not so great. However, the 2 gentlemen that told their stories, were as funny as the performers themselves. They could not have been better chosen for the evening.
All in all, I came away in awe of these performers, and a little jealous that they have the nerve to do something like this while I do not. Even if I could overcome the massive amount of stage fright I have, I wouldn't have a clever story to tell. Maybe I'll work on that piece of the puzzle first. That seems a lot easier than overcoming the fear of people in general...
Sunday, May 21, 2017
Stories - Telling
Tomorrow, I'll be attending a Stoop Storytelling Event. These events are sort of like the Mortified performances I've attended in the past. Regular people are given the microphone and tell a story on a particular topic. In the case of Stoop Storytelling, the participants audition and when they're chosen, they get to workshop their story with other artists first, to make it the best it can be. And then they're given 7 minutes to perform it in front of the audience.
This entire thing is so, so very interesting to me, while being equal parts terrifying. Never in a million years, would I be the kind of person that would say "I have a super interesting story, that you just have to listen to." Even if I was abducted by aliens and dropped on the planet Mars for a quick vacation - I'd still avoid telling my story in front of anyone. There are just so many unknowns to the whole thing. What if your story isn't as interesting you think it is? What if you forget the whole point to your story and you lose your train of thought? What if your story isn't finished when the buzzer hits 7 minutes? What if you say something completely embarrassing?
You see? Way too many things can go wrong in a situation like this. That's why I much prefer writing. I can read and re-read what I've written before anyone gets the chance to see it. I can make sure it's correct and I can take as long as I want to getting it right. And if it's not as interesting as I think it might be, readers can just stop reading, and most importantly, I'll never know. Writing is just a much better medium for someone as neurotic and crowd-shy as I am.
However, I give hundreds of points to Gryffindor for anyone that is willing to get up in front of a crowd and tell their stories. Because more often than not, the people willing to take that leap are so much more interesting than I could have hoped. And I love watching them do their thing!
This entire thing is so, so very interesting to me, while being equal parts terrifying. Never in a million years, would I be the kind of person that would say "I have a super interesting story, that you just have to listen to." Even if I was abducted by aliens and dropped on the planet Mars for a quick vacation - I'd still avoid telling my story in front of anyone. There are just so many unknowns to the whole thing. What if your story isn't as interesting you think it is? What if you forget the whole point to your story and you lose your train of thought? What if your story isn't finished when the buzzer hits 7 minutes? What if you say something completely embarrassing?
You see? Way too many things can go wrong in a situation like this. That's why I much prefer writing. I can read and re-read what I've written before anyone gets the chance to see it. I can make sure it's correct and I can take as long as I want to getting it right. And if it's not as interesting as I think it might be, readers can just stop reading, and most importantly, I'll never know. Writing is just a much better medium for someone as neurotic and crowd-shy as I am.
However, I give hundreds of points to Gryffindor for anyone that is willing to get up in front of a crowd and tell their stories. Because more often than not, the people willing to take that leap are so much more interesting than I could have hoped. And I love watching them do their thing!
Saturday, May 20, 2017
Too True Crime
I have a friend who's obsessed with true crime podcasts and Netflix documentaries. It's pretty much all she watches. I on the other hand prefer my entertainment fake. Real life is scary and sometimes cases aren't solved. At least with the fake stuff I can watch handsome actors solve the crimes and get the bad guys.
However, in the last few weeks I've listened to an admittedly strange podcast called S-Town about a real life case and started watching The Keepers on Netflix. And I gotta say, while they're still creepy as anything, they're pretty compelling. Don't get me wrong, the fact that these cases really happened is just such an odd thing. In the keepers, the murders of 2 women have gone completely unsolved for 40 years. How does something like that happen? It's terrifying to think what living with that - for their families and their murderer(s)? - could do to a person.
But nonetheless, I'm hooked. I don't plan on turning completely to the true crime dark side though. At the end of these shows, I still have no idea who or what did the crime. That just doesn't work for me. Like I said, at the end of my fake shows, the bad guys are behind bars. That's the way I like my entertainment, tied up with a bow. But a little unknowing should keep me busy for the summer, until the cute detectives are back in the fall.
However, in the last few weeks I've listened to an admittedly strange podcast called S-Town about a real life case and started watching The Keepers on Netflix. And I gotta say, while they're still creepy as anything, they're pretty compelling. Don't get me wrong, the fact that these cases really happened is just such an odd thing. In the keepers, the murders of 2 women have gone completely unsolved for 40 years. How does something like that happen? It's terrifying to think what living with that - for their families and their murderer(s)? - could do to a person.
But nonetheless, I'm hooked. I don't plan on turning completely to the true crime dark side though. At the end of these shows, I still have no idea who or what did the crime. That just doesn't work for me. Like I said, at the end of my fake shows, the bad guys are behind bars. That's the way I like my entertainment, tied up with a bow. But a little unknowing should keep me busy for the summer, until the cute detectives are back in the fall.
Friday, May 19, 2017
Friday Five
1. After 4 shows at 54 Below over the last year and just as many awkward encounters there, I've decided that it's my very favorite concert venue. I'm planning to avoid all other venues now in favor of this beautiful supper club : ) So fun!
2. Usually Melissa McCarthy doesn't really make me laugh. I'm sure she's a lovely person, but her brand of comedy isn't my thing. However, when does "Spicey", she makes me howl with laughter. It cracks me up! So when I saw that she was "casually driving around Midtown on a motorized podium dressed as Spicey" I could not stop laughing. Every time I see the little Instagram video, I start giggling.
3. I may sound like a broken record, but I've told everyone I know to watch the show Speechless because I'm just in awe of it. It's funny and sweet and most of all it handles disabilities respectfully. But they also realize that living with loved ones with issues is just a part of everyday life. Everything about this show is perfect and to see it get a second season, was such a happy surprise. It was the only new show I was worried about. None of the others have the same heart so I'm so happy that it'll be around for at least another year - though I have a suspicion it might be a bit longer.
4. Netflix is doing a 10 episode prequel of The Dark Crystal!! This is not a drill, people! I cannot wait to have more Froudian creatures on my screens. Now, once this show amazes and astounds, they'll just have to do a follow-up to Labyrinth, right?
5. Now that I've got the AC on and it's working well, I can finally say that I'm happy to see the sunshine and the super hot temps back again in Maryland. I hate the winter, and the 45 degree "spring" days were not my cup of tea. I'm liking the 80-90 degree days because it means summer is just around the corner. Thank goodness for that!
2. Usually Melissa McCarthy doesn't really make me laugh. I'm sure she's a lovely person, but her brand of comedy isn't my thing. However, when does "Spicey", she makes me howl with laughter. It cracks me up! So when I saw that she was "casually driving around Midtown on a motorized podium dressed as Spicey" I could not stop laughing. Every time I see the little Instagram video, I start giggling.
3. I may sound like a broken record, but I've told everyone I know to watch the show Speechless because I'm just in awe of it. It's funny and sweet and most of all it handles disabilities respectfully. But they also realize that living with loved ones with issues is just a part of everyday life. Everything about this show is perfect and to see it get a second season, was such a happy surprise. It was the only new show I was worried about. None of the others have the same heart so I'm so happy that it'll be around for at least another year - though I have a suspicion it might be a bit longer.
4. Netflix is doing a 10 episode prequel of The Dark Crystal!! This is not a drill, people! I cannot wait to have more Froudian creatures on my screens. Now, once this show amazes and astounds, they'll just have to do a follow-up to Labyrinth, right?
5. Now that I've got the AC on and it's working well, I can finally say that I'm happy to see the sunshine and the super hot temps back again in Maryland. I hate the winter, and the 45 degree "spring" days were not my cup of tea. I'm liking the 80-90 degree days because it means summer is just around the corner. Thank goodness for that!
Tuesday, May 16, 2017
So Many Things...
I have about 30 things to say this week however, technical difficulties are making it quite difficult to say them. For some reason, the computer that was fixed won't connect to wifi and is being a big old jerk. Luckily, I have working computers at work that allow me to stick around and use them after my day is done. So if you're hoping for something clever to read tonight, I'd suggest checking out scrappytravels.blogspot.com for a run down on how amazing Hello, Dolly is.
At least I was able to write at least one thing in a timely manner. Seeing as I'm tapping this out on my iPad, which is taking half a century, I think I'll sign off for the evening.
At least I was able to write at least one thing in a timely manner. Seeing as I'm tapping this out on my iPad, which is taking half a century, I think I'll sign off for the evening.
Monday, May 15, 2017
Trivia Monday
~ And so the traveling continues. Tonight's outing wasn't nearly as horrendous as I thought it might be. The bar was a neighborhood dive with a little too much Fox News for my liking, but aside from that, not too bad.
~ And honestly, how bad could it have been since we came in first place. Woohoo!
~ The half-time question was all about Jack's on television. On the very day when the Will & Grace trailer was released, not a single question was asked on Just Jack. I feel they missed a prime opportunity.
~ The bestie was apparently born in 1876 because she was the only person in the bar that answered Pollywog to a question, when we could have just said tadpole. The question-asker thought that was as ridiculous as we did but still got our 12 points, so yay for being born in 1876!
~ The KC Chiefs had an undefeated season but not before the Patriots also had one. There goes Tom Brady ruining things again...
~ My complete and undying love for the show Bones got us 2 answers correct tonight. Though not the question on an actual bone.
~ When a question is asked on the US State that ends with 3 vowels and the question-asker jokes that the answer is New Jerseeee, our team gets way too confused for a bunch of rather smart people. Jokes really aren't that funny when someone had to explain them to you.
~ When you don't have a clue, go with your first answer always. Don't scratch it out 10 times. It might not win you shots, but it could get you 2 points. (In this instance, we won neither...)
~ Something I did learn while ranging against Fox News was that a romphim is a romper for men. Though the boys confirm that no man or woman should be wearing romphims or hers.
~ Perhaps when the scorekeeper messes up the score 3 separate times, she should have score-keeping taken away. Not saying that this was me. I'm just saying math is hard : )
~ Movies can be so bad that they're actually good. The movie that was used to prove this point was "Mannequin."
~ And honestly, how bad could it have been since we came in first place. Woohoo!
~ The half-time question was all about Jack's on television. On the very day when the Will & Grace trailer was released, not a single question was asked on Just Jack. I feel they missed a prime opportunity.
~ The bestie was apparently born in 1876 because she was the only person in the bar that answered Pollywog to a question, when we could have just said tadpole. The question-asker thought that was as ridiculous as we did but still got our 12 points, so yay for being born in 1876!
~ The KC Chiefs had an undefeated season but not before the Patriots also had one. There goes Tom Brady ruining things again...
~ My complete and undying love for the show Bones got us 2 answers correct tonight. Though not the question on an actual bone.
~ When a question is asked on the US State that ends with 3 vowels and the question-asker jokes that the answer is New Jerseeee, our team gets way too confused for a bunch of rather smart people. Jokes really aren't that funny when someone had to explain them to you.
~ When you don't have a clue, go with your first answer always. Don't scratch it out 10 times. It might not win you shots, but it could get you 2 points. (In this instance, we won neither...)
~ Something I did learn while ranging against Fox News was that a romphim is a romper for men. Though the boys confirm that no man or woman should be wearing romphims or hers.
~ Perhaps when the scorekeeper messes up the score 3 separate times, she should have score-keeping taken away. Not saying that this was me. I'm just saying math is hard : )
~ Movies can be so bad that they're actually good. The movie that was used to prove this point was "Mannequin."
Friday, May 12, 2017
Thursday, May 11, 2017
Spring Theatre Preview
I have to say, the next 6 weeks or so are definitely the weeks of theater - in an already very busy theater year. Whether it's free BroadwayWorld shows that I'm reviewing or shows that I've purchased tickets for, it looks like I'll be quite busy. Of course, there are worse issues to have. So I thought I'd let you know what I'm seeing and why I'm seeing it and then check in after the fact to let you know how the shows were. Some I'm thrilled about while others I'm not so sure - those are usually the ones I'm being dragged to by my friend who, as she puts it "comes from a place of yes." : )
First up, Hello Dolly! with Bette Midler, Gavin Creel and David Hyde Pierce. Somehow, I've never seen this show, so I'm not entirely sure what it's about. However, this cast is full off of amazing people that I'm super excited to see. However, I'm reserving judgement because Im fairly certain this show is going to steal all the Tony's from my Falsettos and I'm none too thrilled about that.
~ Waitress is finally going to be seen. I really wanted to see this when it first opened. Then I saw the preview last year at the Tony's and wasn't really in love with it. It also helped that tickets were costing more than the usual $100 threshold so I was avoiding it. But the friend who comes from a place of yes, loves Sara Bareilles and I love Chris Diamontopolos so we finally decided to buy tickets. I feel like the pie at the concession stand is enough to make me love it.
~ Then it's on to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I have always loved this movie however, I've seen clips and I'm not exactly loving what I'm seeing. Keeping my fingers crossed that it's as good as I'm hoping.
~ Next up is the immersive production of Sweeney Todd, which is a show I've never seen before. Also, I'm terrified about the word "immersive" ever since I was forced to go to HT Darling's Interactive Museum Not sure what to expect but if they start to include me in the show, I'm out!
~ Then, an old favorite that I can't wait to see again - Jesus Christ Superstar at the Signature Theater in VA. This production looks so amazing, but I'm super biased when it comes to this show. Every production I've ever seen I've loved.
~ At some point, I'm seeing a show (one I'm being dragged to) called Laura Bush Killed a Guy. And for some reason, when these tickets were purchased we were asked to make some sort of cookie to bring with us, which has us confused and intrigued.
~ For BWW, I[m seeing Noises Off at Everyman (looks Phenomenal!), Stoop Storytelling at Everyman (super fun!) and See How they Run at Vagabond Players (Looks like a fun farce!)
~ And then in England, we're seeing Hamlet with Andrew Scott (Moriarty from Sherlock) which I'm keeping my hopes us is better than Benedict Cumberbatch's version.
~ There will also be a dabbling of opera in England unfortunately, because the only show that's playing at the Minnack Theatre in Cornwall when we're there is La Traviata.
And then I think July is still pretty open, with the return to NYC in August for a 2 show weekend. Unfortunately, one of those shows was going to be Amelie, but since that's closing, we'll need to find something else.
There you have it - quite a full schedule, but so fun! Can't wait to tell you the good, bad and ugly about them all soon!
First up, Hello Dolly! with Bette Midler, Gavin Creel and David Hyde Pierce. Somehow, I've never seen this show, so I'm not entirely sure what it's about. However, this cast is full off of amazing people that I'm super excited to see. However, I'm reserving judgement because Im fairly certain this show is going to steal all the Tony's from my Falsettos and I'm none too thrilled about that.
~ Waitress is finally going to be seen. I really wanted to see this when it first opened. Then I saw the preview last year at the Tony's and wasn't really in love with it. It also helped that tickets were costing more than the usual $100 threshold so I was avoiding it. But the friend who comes from a place of yes, loves Sara Bareilles and I love Chris Diamontopolos so we finally decided to buy tickets. I feel like the pie at the concession stand is enough to make me love it.
~ Then it's on to Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. I have always loved this movie however, I've seen clips and I'm not exactly loving what I'm seeing. Keeping my fingers crossed that it's as good as I'm hoping.
~ Next up is the immersive production of Sweeney Todd, which is a show I've never seen before. Also, I'm terrified about the word "immersive" ever since I was forced to go to HT Darling's Interactive Museum Not sure what to expect but if they start to include me in the show, I'm out!
~ Then, an old favorite that I can't wait to see again - Jesus Christ Superstar at the Signature Theater in VA. This production looks so amazing, but I'm super biased when it comes to this show. Every production I've ever seen I've loved.
~ At some point, I'm seeing a show (one I'm being dragged to) called Laura Bush Killed a Guy. And for some reason, when these tickets were purchased we were asked to make some sort of cookie to bring with us, which has us confused and intrigued.
~ For BWW, I[m seeing Noises Off at Everyman (looks Phenomenal!), Stoop Storytelling at Everyman (super fun!) and See How they Run at Vagabond Players (Looks like a fun farce!)
~ And then in England, we're seeing Hamlet with Andrew Scott (Moriarty from Sherlock) which I'm keeping my hopes us is better than Benedict Cumberbatch's version.
~ There will also be a dabbling of opera in England unfortunately, because the only show that's playing at the Minnack Theatre in Cornwall when we're there is La Traviata.
And then I think July is still pretty open, with the return to NYC in August for a 2 show weekend. Unfortunately, one of those shows was going to be Amelie, but since that's closing, we'll need to find something else.
There you have it - quite a full schedule, but so fun! Can't wait to tell you the good, bad and ugly about them all soon!
Wednesday, May 10, 2017
Trivia Wednesday
~ Tonight's outing was to a Pirate Bar - not such a fan. The food isn't terrible. However, the seating, while cute and in-theme - large kegs and barstools - isn't the greatest for sitting around for more than 2 hours. I could never quite figure out where to put my knees. Anyway, we vote No on this place, so I suppose it's off to find somewhere else.
~ With the new place, I swear either the questions got harder or I got dumber. One or the other because I knew exactly 2 answers this evening. And the others I didn't know, I couldn't have even made a logical guess. I had absolutely no clue.
~ LBD is apparently an acronym for Little Black Dress, which was popularized by Breakfast at Tiffany's and happened to be one of the 2 answers I knew. Why does one need an acronym for Little Black Dress? It's a pretty simple phrase to say : )
~ When the half time question is on Fake Doctors, it's a reason to get excited. When all of those fake doctors are stars of movies, it's a reason to get sad. Do you know how many hospital shows I've watched in my lifetime? A whole bunch! Do you know how many doctor movies I've watched? About 2.
~ There were questions on WNBA, NBA, and Wrestling. If we were playing Jeopardy, I'd say the theme for the evening was "Things Kristen knows nothing about..."
~ What does it say about me, that the only other answer I knew this evening was the words to "All the Single Ladies" by Beyonce?
~ The phrase "I Am Groot", while hilarious to pretty much everyone in the bar, was not the answer to a single question this evening, which is a shame : )
~ With the new place, I swear either the questions got harder or I got dumber. One or the other because I knew exactly 2 answers this evening. And the others I didn't know, I couldn't have even made a logical guess. I had absolutely no clue.
~ LBD is apparently an acronym for Little Black Dress, which was popularized by Breakfast at Tiffany's and happened to be one of the 2 answers I knew. Why does one need an acronym for Little Black Dress? It's a pretty simple phrase to say : )
~ When the half time question is on Fake Doctors, it's a reason to get excited. When all of those fake doctors are stars of movies, it's a reason to get sad. Do you know how many hospital shows I've watched in my lifetime? A whole bunch! Do you know how many doctor movies I've watched? About 2.
~ There were questions on WNBA, NBA, and Wrestling. If we were playing Jeopardy, I'd say the theme for the evening was "Things Kristen knows nothing about..."
~ What does it say about me, that the only other answer I knew this evening was the words to "All the Single Ladies" by Beyonce?
~ The phrase "I Am Groot", while hilarious to pretty much everyone in the bar, was not the answer to a single question this evening, which is a shame : )
Tuesday, May 9, 2017
Logically Speaking...
I have a hard time arguing my feelings because I find it difficult to speak logically when people are being awful. But I'm going to try to in this case, because either I'm really not understanding something or our President is an idiot. I've never been one to say that I know everything, but I'm leaning pretty sharply on the latter.
Now I know our government over the last few months has made multiple ill-advised, inappropriate and rash decisions on everything from appointees to passing bills. This news cycle has had its fill of these calls. Basically, the only business that's booming right now are the late night hosts that are being paid to make jokes about this administration. And thank goodness for them, because if we weren't laughing, we'd definitely be crying.
I've disagreed with every single thing that's ever come out of President Trump's mouth. I personally think he's a disgrace to humanity and a laughing-stock. Yet, I understand what he thinks he's doing most of the time. He hardly ever succeeds at it, but you can at least try to see the start of a thought - before it ultimately loses its thread from his brain to his mouth. But today, I'm having a hard time understanding any sort of logic behind firing FBI Director Comey. What does this gain?
By firing him, Trump has put himself on Comey's bad side. And based on tons of intel, Comey seems to know a lot about what's been going on in the White House. So, exactly why would President Trump give Director Comey a reason to spout off all of his information to a possible special prosecutor or a senate committee? Wouldn't it be better to let Comey keep his job and keep him happy? I'm just not understanding the reasoning.
But, in today's world, I'm getting pretty used to that...
Now I know our government over the last few months has made multiple ill-advised, inappropriate and rash decisions on everything from appointees to passing bills. This news cycle has had its fill of these calls. Basically, the only business that's booming right now are the late night hosts that are being paid to make jokes about this administration. And thank goodness for them, because if we weren't laughing, we'd definitely be crying.
I've disagreed with every single thing that's ever come out of President Trump's mouth. I personally think he's a disgrace to humanity and a laughing-stock. Yet, I understand what he thinks he's doing most of the time. He hardly ever succeeds at it, but you can at least try to see the start of a thought - before it ultimately loses its thread from his brain to his mouth. But today, I'm having a hard time understanding any sort of logic behind firing FBI Director Comey. What does this gain?
By firing him, Trump has put himself on Comey's bad side. And based on tons of intel, Comey seems to know a lot about what's been going on in the White House. So, exactly why would President Trump give Director Comey a reason to spout off all of his information to a possible special prosecutor or a senate committee? Wouldn't it be better to let Comey keep his job and keep him happy? I'm just not understanding the reasoning.
But, in today's world, I'm getting pretty used to that...
Monday, May 8, 2017
NYC Lessons Learned
~ The Amtrak train service is just so much more civilized than taking the bus. I had my own seat, with leg room, a table to lean on, and my own personal plug to charge my phone. I also had another seat empty next to me for most of the trip. It was so darn lovely. Of course, coming home, the train was late, delayed by about 35 minutes, and some crazy lady was having a fight with her boyfriend on her phone for about 3 hours. However, based on my last few experiences on MegaBus, it was still more civilized...
~ Story, the curated store I love so much in Chelsea, takes at least 2.5 weeks to turn over their store design. Because it was still not open this time around, even after I walked blocks and blocks to visit it.
~ It is quite possible to completely miss the actual restaurant part of Eataly in WTC. However, if you follow the signs that say Restaurant -> you may just discover it. Also, you'll be quite happy you did, because their Cacio y Pepe is to die for!
~ When dropping things in your wallet, pay attention to where you're going. The door you think you're walking through just may be a glass window.
~ Defiant Girl is still a super busy tourist attraction. However, she's surrounded by awesome ladies to chat with who are all striking the same pose as she is for photos, so the wait seems a bit easier.
~ Sitting in a coffee shop in the New York Times building for 2 hours isn't as enjoyable as one might think.
~ Sitting at a table by your self, on the same side as the famous people at 54 Below is so intimidating. So much so that you just might have a mini panic attack, and act thoroughly unhuman for the entire evening.
~ New York on a bright, sunshiny spring day is still pretty darn special!
Sunday, May 7, 2017
Viva Le France!
Somehow, France managed to do what England and the US couldn't - they managed to elect the saner of the 2 candidates they had to choose from. They didn't elect a laughing stock or someone who had no business being in power. Since I visited Paris, I've been less than thrilled with the country, however after the resounding victor of Macron, I have a growing respect for the country and the French people. Yay France!
What I was most surprised to learn, aside from who won, was that they do their voting on a Sunday instead of the Tuesday elections we have here. How much more civilized is that? No one's working so they have the time and energy to go vote. Here, it's such a pain to get to the polling places either before or after work, which is why our turnout is often so low. I read a statistic today that said that this year's French election turnout was "bad" for them, however it's higher than the US election turnout for the last 20 years. That's pretty crazy!
So I suppose, all of this is to say, maybe if we can switch our voting over to Sundays, we'll never again have to deal with a moronic administration like we have now? Maybe? A girl could hope anyway...
What I was most surprised to learn, aside from who won, was that they do their voting on a Sunday instead of the Tuesday elections we have here. How much more civilized is that? No one's working so they have the time and energy to go vote. Here, it's such a pain to get to the polling places either before or after work, which is why our turnout is often so low. I read a statistic today that said that this year's French election turnout was "bad" for them, however it's higher than the US election turnout for the last 20 years. That's pretty crazy!
So I suppose, all of this is to say, maybe if we can switch our voting over to Sundays, we'll never again have to deal with a moronic administration like we have now? Maybe? A girl could hope anyway...
Saturday, May 6, 2017
AVAM Fun
I've lived in Maryland my entire life, and sometimes I think I've been living under a rock this entire time. There are so many places in this state that I've just never explored. I'm hoping to change that this year. First up is the American Visionary Arts Museum. This super cool museum is located in downtown Baltimore and I'm thinking quirky would be the best way to describe its installations. I've only ever been inside once, but I honestly don't remember the outside being as awesome as it is. I was early meeting friends for a wine fest today, so I took a few minutes to wander around the museum's outdoor crafts and fell in love with all the art. Can't wait to get back and actually go inside this time!
 |
| Can you just imagine how cool this building would be in the sunlight rather than clouds? |
 |
| Obligatory AVAM Selfie |
 |
| Street Art! |
 |
| This is the inside of the glass tree above - so cool! |
Friday, May 5, 2017
Friday Five
1. Defiant Girl on Wall Street is pretty amazing! I loved getting the chance to see her and I loved that she's still standing tall in face of adversity - by the bull or from her critics!
2. First off, I respect the heck out of Jimmy Kimmel for coming forward and saying what he did about his son and the new healthcare bill. He's been through so much this past few weeks, but he was still able to be funny and impassioned. Secondly, I love that they booked Shaun White because of his ties to this same issue that Jimmy's son. Shaun White hasn't been in the news in a while, so I'm sure he wasn't earning Jimmy any ratings, but what a great way to reach out and have Shaun calm some of their fears!
3. I had the chance to see the songs of Lewis Flynn last night at 54 Below. Obviously, Andrew Rannells was the big draw. However, they premiered 3 songs from their new musical Robin Hood, and I'm hooked! The music and the cast are truly stellar. The show is premiering in Dallas but I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it does so well, it reaches Broadway, because this really is some beautiful music!
4. A few weeks ago, ex-Raven Todd Heap had a personal tragedy in his life when he accidentally hit his daughter (whom he didn't realize had followed him into the driveway) with his truck, and killed her. It's an awful story and I keep thinking about him and how truly tragic this is. However, this week his family and friends joined in to celebrate her life with #HugsforHolly day. Everyone was asked to wear pink (her favorite color) and do random acts of kindness. To see so many people get involved was amazing! Just look up the hashtag on Twitter, thousands of people joined in from ex-teammates to whole NFL organizations. It was a beautiful way for a little good to come out of this tragedy.
5. This makes me laugh because I'm pretty sure this would happen to me if I ever met Stephanie Block : )
2. First off, I respect the heck out of Jimmy Kimmel for coming forward and saying what he did about his son and the new healthcare bill. He's been through so much this past few weeks, but he was still able to be funny and impassioned. Secondly, I love that they booked Shaun White because of his ties to this same issue that Jimmy's son. Shaun White hasn't been in the news in a while, so I'm sure he wasn't earning Jimmy any ratings, but what a great way to reach out and have Shaun calm some of their fears!
3. I had the chance to see the songs of Lewis Flynn last night at 54 Below. Obviously, Andrew Rannells was the big draw. However, they premiered 3 songs from their new musical Robin Hood, and I'm hooked! The music and the cast are truly stellar. The show is premiering in Dallas but I'm keeping my fingers crossed that it does so well, it reaches Broadway, because this really is some beautiful music!
4. A few weeks ago, ex-Raven Todd Heap had a personal tragedy in his life when he accidentally hit his daughter (whom he didn't realize had followed him into the driveway) with his truck, and killed her. It's an awful story and I keep thinking about him and how truly tragic this is. However, this week his family and friends joined in to celebrate her life with #HugsforHolly day. Everyone was asked to wear pink (her favorite color) and do random acts of kindness. To see so many people get involved was amazing! Just look up the hashtag on Twitter, thousands of people joined in from ex-teammates to whole NFL organizations. It was a beautiful way for a little good to come out of this tragedy.
5. This makes me laugh because I'm pretty sure this would happen to me if I ever met Stephanie Block : )
When @StephanieJBlock met @Sally_Field at @TheTonyAwards junket— TheaterMania (@theatermania) May 3, 2017
vs. After @StephanieJBlock met @sally_field at @TheTonyAwards junket pic.twitter.com/1kF7SP4W0H
Wednesday, May 3, 2017
The Creative Process or Lack Thereof
Most writers or crafters or just about anyone go through a spell of writers block. They sit in front of a blank page or a canvas and just stare, not knowing where to begin. It happens to everyone. However, when it seems to happen to me, it's not just writer's block, it's everything block.
For instance, my usual process for anything - crafting, writing, scrapbooking, cooking - is to mull around some ideas in the back of my head, until something great takes shape. Sometimes it really is something great, and sometimes only I think it's great. But it works for me. Other times, like the time I find myself in now, absolutely nothing happens.
Tomorrow, I'll be in New York, for the last 4 days I've been trying to decide on what to wear. I literally stood in my closet this evening for 20 minutes trying to make this decision. This isn't rocket science people! I like shopping. I have plenty to wear. I just can't decide on what piece I want to wear. After the clothes debacle, I proceeded to stand in front of my bookshelf for another 10 minutes because I need a book to read on the bus, but the ones I haven't read yet all look unappealing. I bought them. Apparently, they were appealing at some point. But not now.
I started to write a post in my head yesterday on my way home and another before I left work. Neither seem like great ideas right now. I can't even figure out exactly what I'm doing in New York tomorrow. What's happening to my brain? It's mush! The creativity I was so proud of last week has seemingly gone out the window...
I really hope it's back soon, because really. If it continues to take me this long to decide to wear each morning, I'll never get to work!
For instance, my usual process for anything - crafting, writing, scrapbooking, cooking - is to mull around some ideas in the back of my head, until something great takes shape. Sometimes it really is something great, and sometimes only I think it's great. But it works for me. Other times, like the time I find myself in now, absolutely nothing happens.
Tomorrow, I'll be in New York, for the last 4 days I've been trying to decide on what to wear. I literally stood in my closet this evening for 20 minutes trying to make this decision. This isn't rocket science people! I like shopping. I have plenty to wear. I just can't decide on what piece I want to wear. After the clothes debacle, I proceeded to stand in front of my bookshelf for another 10 minutes because I need a book to read on the bus, but the ones I haven't read yet all look unappealing. I bought them. Apparently, they were appealing at some point. But not now.
I started to write a post in my head yesterday on my way home and another before I left work. Neither seem like great ideas right now. I can't even figure out exactly what I'm doing in New York tomorrow. What's happening to my brain? It's mush! The creativity I was so proud of last week has seemingly gone out the window...
I really hope it's back soon, because really. If it continues to take me this long to decide to wear each morning, I'll never get to work!
Tuesday, May 2, 2017
Tony Nomination Feelings
So the Tony Award nominations were announced today and I have to say, I have loads of feelings. I've been anxiously awaiting this day for a while, because there was a chance that lots of shows I've seen would be nominated. And that was definitely the case. All in all I've seen 4 of the shows nominated for some type of award, and I have tickets for this month to see a 5th and 6th. So I know personally just how wonderfully deserving these creatives are.
But there were 2 shows that I cared about so much more than the others so I've been keeping my fingers crossed that they'd receive the most love. And, as it turns out, I needn't have worried. Come From Away received 7 nominations and Falsettos received 5. Woohoo! These were the 2 shows that touched my heart more than any other in this season. I collectively love the cast (and really would like to be their friend) and adore the music. I listen to their cast albums on repeat constantly, and I tell everyone I meet to see each of them. In my eyes they deserved all of the awards, but I'll settle for the 12 nominations they received.
What's even more fun to watch than the nominations is the reactions from these people that are so deserving of the attention. It's been a non-stop love fest all day. I love that the nominees are throwing hugs and congrats to their fellow nominees. It seems everyone in the Broadway community is friends with everyone else in the Broadway community. So it seems each nominee is rooting for a friend who's also nominated. This is how award season should be done. The heck with that cutthroat bashing of competitors - love and fun all around!
The only part I didn't enjoy about today was the price of tickets to the show. I foolishly thought tickets wouldn't be too expensive so I was going to try to buy 2 for my friend and me. However the lowest price ticket was $381. That's insanity! So it looks like I'll be watching - what should be an awesome show - from the comfort of my cozy couch. There are worse ways to watch the Tonys...
But there were 2 shows that I cared about so much more than the others so I've been keeping my fingers crossed that they'd receive the most love. And, as it turns out, I needn't have worried. Come From Away received 7 nominations and Falsettos received 5. Woohoo! These were the 2 shows that touched my heart more than any other in this season. I collectively love the cast (and really would like to be their friend) and adore the music. I listen to their cast albums on repeat constantly, and I tell everyone I meet to see each of them. In my eyes they deserved all of the awards, but I'll settle for the 12 nominations they received.
What's even more fun to watch than the nominations is the reactions from these people that are so deserving of the attention. It's been a non-stop love fest all day. I love that the nominees are throwing hugs and congrats to their fellow nominees. It seems everyone in the Broadway community is friends with everyone else in the Broadway community. So it seems each nominee is rooting for a friend who's also nominated. This is how award season should be done. The heck with that cutthroat bashing of competitors - love and fun all around!
The only part I didn't enjoy about today was the price of tickets to the show. I foolishly thought tickets wouldn't be too expensive so I was going to try to buy 2 for my friend and me. However the lowest price ticket was $381. That's insanity! So it looks like I'll be watching - what should be an awesome show - from the comfort of my cozy couch. There are worse ways to watch the Tonys...
Monday, May 1, 2017
Met Gala: I Have Questions
Each year, I watch the Met Gala from afar and each year I ponder what in the world these people are thinking. It's a great concept for creativity - dress up based on a theme and then party the night away. I get it. Dressing up is fun, and raising money for the Met is a fabulous idea. This all sounds rather simple in theory. But when you see the outfits these A-listers where, it all sort of falls apart.
Now, I have to say, I have no idea what this year's theme actually is. I haven't been able to find that helpful piece of information yet. But based on what I'm seeing, the theme is based somewhere between fishnets and enormous outfits. Honestly, I see nothing tying these women's dresses together except the sheer size of the dresses themselves. The dresses are enormous - super long trains, big poofy sleeves, extra fabric everywhere. I'd first like to know how you're supposed to walk around and dance at a party with a train that's 4 feet long. I'd then like to know how these women even attempt to use the restroom without dunking that 4 foot train in the toilet.
It's a conundrum! I seem to only be picking on the girls, but I've seen a few of the guys get into the mix of craziness too. To them, I'd like to say what's wrong with a simple tuxedo? No man can go wrong in a tux. Pharrell Williams - I love you, but ripped jeans at a gala?!
After seeing the initial style of the red carpet, I'm quite curious to know how the couples decide on what to wear. Because it seems like a matching affair. I'm guessing the women are in charge of that particular aspect of the evening. And if it were me, I would rather just give my guy a nice tuxedo so I can be the star of the show in my giant dress. Doesn't that make sense? Or does that make me a bad person?
And lastly, my biggest question of the night. When all the dresses are made to be insane - how are some websites judging the best and worst looks of the night? They're all pretty cuckoo - it's impossible to have a bad look when the point is to be the most outrageous!
Now, I have to say, I have no idea what this year's theme actually is. I haven't been able to find that helpful piece of information yet. But based on what I'm seeing, the theme is based somewhere between fishnets and enormous outfits. Honestly, I see nothing tying these women's dresses together except the sheer size of the dresses themselves. The dresses are enormous - super long trains, big poofy sleeves, extra fabric everywhere. I'd first like to know how you're supposed to walk around and dance at a party with a train that's 4 feet long. I'd then like to know how these women even attempt to use the restroom without dunking that 4 foot train in the toilet.
It's a conundrum! I seem to only be picking on the girls, but I've seen a few of the guys get into the mix of craziness too. To them, I'd like to say what's wrong with a simple tuxedo? No man can go wrong in a tux. Pharrell Williams - I love you, but ripped jeans at a gala?!
After seeing the initial style of the red carpet, I'm quite curious to know how the couples decide on what to wear. Because it seems like a matching affair. I'm guessing the women are in charge of that particular aspect of the evening. And if it were me, I would rather just give my guy a nice tuxedo so I can be the star of the show in my giant dress. Doesn't that make sense? Or does that make me a bad person?
And lastly, my biggest question of the night. When all the dresses are made to be insane - how are some websites judging the best and worst looks of the night? They're all pretty cuckoo - it's impossible to have a bad look when the point is to be the most outrageous!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)