This week has been quite wonderful! As you all are probably aware, my very first national commercial began to air this past Monday. I was working all day and hadn't caught the commercial in the morning before I went to work so I was eager to get home and watch it! When I got home, I not only had that to look forward to, but also came home to find my cheque for the Luxury Mattress Infomercial waiting for me! It's not a bad day when I get paid for one commercial on the same day another one airs!
My experience of first seeing myself in the commercial was definitely surreal and as you may imagine, I picked it apart and absolutely hated everything about me in it the first time around. My head looked shrunken on my shoulders; my voice didn't sound like my own, etc., etc. I was not surprised by this reaction; its not every day my face pops up on t.v! However, I enjoyed the commercial more and more each time I saw it!
What was most special to me about that day, however, were all the phone calls, texts, emails and facebook messages I got from all my family and friends who were so excited to have seen it. To know that there were so many people in their living rooms anxiously awaiting to see me in a commercial made me feel more grateful than I can express. In that moment, I felt lifted and completely supported and that is a truly special and wonderful thing!
So, to you I say thank you for your excitement, for your eagerness, for your constant encouragement...thank you!
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Saturday, September 17, 2011
My KitchenAid Commercial with Anna Olson
On September 19, 2011, just 2 days away, my first ever Canadian National Commercial will air and I am pretty excited! What's cool about this, other than the obvious (it's a national spot; features a local celebrity; it's a well-know brand; I got paid, etc...), is that when I first was sent the script from my agent for the audition, I loved the spot and knew I was perfect for it! I went to the audition feeling nervous as always but left feeling like I nailed it and that is such a rare feeling for me after an audition.
At the audition, I knew the clients (from KitchenAid) were in the other room watching on a monitor. I was relieved that they weren't in the actual audition room because that many bodies in the room is always intimidating. The audition went really well! I was so grateful to the casting assistants (thank you Fade to Black!) as their direction was perfect and extremely helpful. At the end of the final take, I heard an eruption of laughter from the other room; perfectly timed with the "punch line" of the spot. I was so thrilled that I got a laugh, I was on cloud nine. Then, as I was leaving, still on my high, I thought, "Wait, the laughter came from a different room; it may not have been for me at all!!" Which just made me laugh!. Regardless, I left the audition feeling that for the first time, I did everything I could do to nail the audition and I did enough to get the part; if some one else walked in and did something else that they like more, so be it! I went and I did my job and that felt pretty great! And, even more so, when I booked the job!
We shot a few weeks ago and it was great. The commercial features just the lovely Anna Olson and I. I actually have lines and am featured and everything!!
Though I am very excited, I can't help but be a bit nervous that for some reason the commercial will not feature me well or I worry that for some reason they've decided not to air it after all. I guess, it just feels to good to be true to consider that perhaps my acting career just might amount to something after all. Of course, it is too soon to tell, but I think that's the fear that's holding me back from being too excited and what's putting some negative thoughts into my head instead.
My hope is that this commercial will amount to something; that because of it, I will book more and more and so on. But, what if that doesn't happen? Am I no further along then? Of course, I can't worry about it. I have to celebrate it for what it is, enjoy the moment and keep moving forward! And, I intend to! With a bit more of a bounce in my step than before! Heck, why not!?
So, keep an eye out, September 19 on The Food Network, HGTV, Slice and Global (although Global might just be featuring Anna's bit).
Oh, and if you're the type of person who stays up late to catch all the latest infomercials, keep an eye out for one for a luxury mattress brand called "Dormeo." I booked that a few months ago and have yet to catch it. So, if you do, let me know!!
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Making the Cut!
In May, I finally embarked on a 30 day challenge issued to me by the fierce eyes of Jillian Michael's (of the Biggest Loser) staring up at me from the cover of her book "Making The Cut" as it sat on my kitchen table for months, after borrowing it from a friend.
I originally borrowed it with the intention of checking out the recipes, as I have become quite the hoarder of healthy, but yummy, dishes to make. One day, however, I noticed that the promise she makes on the cover is that her book will help you lose that last 10 to 20 stubborn pounds!
Friends, I have spent over the last 10 years of my life figuring this weight thing out. For as long as I can remember, I've struggled to maintain a steady exercise regime, but always faltered in and out of my commitment levels at some point. Eventually, the nutrition of trying to eat better came into play and when I focused on both together, I have had great results. However, I feel like I've always lost weight to a certain point, always just short of my goal and then, again, my commitment level falters and inevitably, I would gain some of the weight back; never all of it...but some. Keeping me always just shy of my goal weight.
I have always been fine with this to be honest; to some degree at least. As much as I could count on my commitment level dropping, I too knew I could count on it picking back up again! In the last little while, however, I became annoyed that something inside of me stopped me from truly seeing this through to my goal. This is a common theme in my life and I wanted to tackle this goal once and for all!
After months of mental preparation, in May, I tackled the 30 day Making the Cut challenge ...and quite frankly I kicked some butt! Or, at least kicked some of the weight off my own...! But not all of i! Bums need some meat on them...this is fact!
Essentially, for 30 days, I followed her exercise and meal plan exactly. I had absolutely no alcohol, no treats, very little complex carbs and definitely never for dinner. In 30 days, I lost just under 12 lbs and just under 12 inches overall and I have never felt better!
Most importantly, though, I was amazed by how my mindset changed around food. Portion sizing has always been an issue for me. I'm Italian, after all; I had a new portion in my plate before my first one was done! Some of the portions on her plan seemed minuscule and almost laughable, but you know, I spent very little time feeling hungry in those 30 days. It was amazing to me how I no longer experienced those spikes of feeling really hungry and then really full. I ate in time for my body to not get hungry and just enough, so that I would stay satiated throughout the day, but never bloated! My body remained on this even keel and it made me realize that I don't need that much food to feel satisfied for the day!
The reason I felt that this was an important venture for me; other than my own personal desire to look the way I want, was that as an actor, there are so few things in your control when you walk into an audition. One of the things I wanted to maintain control of is my weight; meaning, I wanted to take it off the table as being an issue; I wanted to remove it as a factor they would keep in mind when considering casting me for a project. I am aware of how shallow this sounds and in the back of my mind I hear a quiet little voice saying it shouldn't matter how I look; real people have all different kinds of body types, and this is true!
If I'm being honest though, I wanted it for me AND I chose this career and I can't pretend to not know that this industry can often be a shallow one and if I want to play in it, I will do whatever it takes to better my chances! Besides, I have done nothing drastic and feel healthier and more fit than I ever have.
Now that the 30 days are over, I have continued to exercise regularly which doesn't feel like a chore and I have maintained a lot of the same eating habits, especially the portion sizing and keeping complex carbs out of my dinners for the most part. I've discovered that I really do have a passion for finding delicious and healthy recipes! And, that can never be a bad thing! In fact, I've not only maintained the weight, but lost another 2 lbs on my own!
My next battle?? Continuing to tone! Oh, why do you elude me so...
I originally borrowed it with the intention of checking out the recipes, as I have become quite the hoarder of healthy, but yummy, dishes to make. One day, however, I noticed that the promise she makes on the cover is that her book will help you lose that last 10 to 20 stubborn pounds!
Friends, I have spent over the last 10 years of my life figuring this weight thing out. For as long as I can remember, I've struggled to maintain a steady exercise regime, but always faltered in and out of my commitment levels at some point. Eventually, the nutrition of trying to eat better came into play and when I focused on both together, I have had great results. However, I feel like I've always lost weight to a certain point, always just short of my goal and then, again, my commitment level falters and inevitably, I would gain some of the weight back; never all of it...but some. Keeping me always just shy of my goal weight.
I have always been fine with this to be honest; to some degree at least. As much as I could count on my commitment level dropping, I too knew I could count on it picking back up again! In the last little while, however, I became annoyed that something inside of me stopped me from truly seeing this through to my goal. This is a common theme in my life and I wanted to tackle this goal once and for all!
After months of mental preparation, in May, I tackled the 30 day Making the Cut challenge ...and quite frankly I kicked some butt! Or, at least kicked some of the weight off my own...! But not all of i! Bums need some meat on them...this is fact!
Essentially, for 30 days, I followed her exercise and meal plan exactly. I had absolutely no alcohol, no treats, very little complex carbs and definitely never for dinner. In 30 days, I lost just under 12 lbs and just under 12 inches overall and I have never felt better!
Most importantly, though, I was amazed by how my mindset changed around food. Portion sizing has always been an issue for me. I'm Italian, after all; I had a new portion in my plate before my first one was done! Some of the portions on her plan seemed minuscule and almost laughable, but you know, I spent very little time feeling hungry in those 30 days. It was amazing to me how I no longer experienced those spikes of feeling really hungry and then really full. I ate in time for my body to not get hungry and just enough, so that I would stay satiated throughout the day, but never bloated! My body remained on this even keel and it made me realize that I don't need that much food to feel satisfied for the day!
The reason I felt that this was an important venture for me; other than my own personal desire to look the way I want, was that as an actor, there are so few things in your control when you walk into an audition. One of the things I wanted to maintain control of is my weight; meaning, I wanted to take it off the table as being an issue; I wanted to remove it as a factor they would keep in mind when considering casting me for a project. I am aware of how shallow this sounds and in the back of my mind I hear a quiet little voice saying it shouldn't matter how I look; real people have all different kinds of body types, and this is true!
If I'm being honest though, I wanted it for me AND I chose this career and I can't pretend to not know that this industry can often be a shallow one and if I want to play in it, I will do whatever it takes to better my chances! Besides, I have done nothing drastic and feel healthier and more fit than I ever have.
Now that the 30 days are over, I have continued to exercise regularly which doesn't feel like a chore and I have maintained a lot of the same eating habits, especially the portion sizing and keeping complex carbs out of my dinners for the most part. I've discovered that I really do have a passion for finding delicious and healthy recipes! And, that can never be a bad thing! In fact, I've not only maintained the weight, but lost another 2 lbs on my own!
My next battle?? Continuing to tone! Oh, why do you elude me so...
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
The Void
Well, once again, as you can see, I have gone away into a Voice Class bubble...or better yet into the Void, which has been a quite the key word from class for the last few days. All that is possible in the void. What inspires you in the void to speak. Sorry if this doesn't make any sense to anyone, but perhaps writing that down is just for myself. Perhaps not?
In any case, the void has been in part, as a result of me choosing to specifically focus on my voice practice in the last few months by taking two sessions of Voice Class in a row. To say I am excited by the discoveries and connections I have learned would be an understatement! And, I am thrilled by what is to come. For the first time, next session I will be taking both voice class and acting class at the same time and I eagerly await the possibilities that will unfold. I hope to share with you more consistently in the next few months about this part of my journey.
A few other things have also occurred in the last few months that have kept me busy.
In April, I went to New York City and had a wonderful visit with my friend Meghan of megiswriting. Meghan had just moved to Park Slope in Brooklyn which I had come to know quite well when I lived in NYC because I babysat in that neighbourhood often. To spend 5 days then in Brooklyn when it appeared Spring was truly blossoming all over, with all the girly time my little heart could desire was just so special. If I figure out how to transfer my pics from my iTouch to my laptop, I will post those for you soon.
Also, at the end of April, Whitney and I went to visit friends in Edmonton for a few days and had such a beautiful, relaxing visit. It was only a few days, but it left such an impression on me. Our friends were such wonderful hosts, who just happened to have a beautiful little boy who I may or may not have fell in love with instantly and tried to sneak into my luggage!
As an aside, this was the farthest west in Canada I had ever been...isn't that crazy? Vancouver is calling me next I tell ya!
Next comes May. In my next post, I will tell you all about what I spent all my focus on in May. Truly a life altering month for me. Details coming soon...
In any case, the void has been in part, as a result of me choosing to specifically focus on my voice practice in the last few months by taking two sessions of Voice Class in a row. To say I am excited by the discoveries and connections I have learned would be an understatement! And, I am thrilled by what is to come. For the first time, next session I will be taking both voice class and acting class at the same time and I eagerly await the possibilities that will unfold. I hope to share with you more consistently in the next few months about this part of my journey.
A few other things have also occurred in the last few months that have kept me busy.
In April, I went to New York City and had a wonderful visit with my friend Meghan of megiswriting. Meghan had just moved to Park Slope in Brooklyn which I had come to know quite well when I lived in NYC because I babysat in that neighbourhood often. To spend 5 days then in Brooklyn when it appeared Spring was truly blossoming all over, with all the girly time my little heart could desire was just so special. If I figure out how to transfer my pics from my iTouch to my laptop, I will post those for you soon.
Also, at the end of April, Whitney and I went to visit friends in Edmonton for a few days and had such a beautiful, relaxing visit. It was only a few days, but it left such an impression on me. Our friends were such wonderful hosts, who just happened to have a beautiful little boy who I may or may not have fell in love with instantly and tried to sneak into my luggage!
As an aside, this was the farthest west in Canada I had ever been...isn't that crazy? Vancouver is calling me next I tell ya!
Next comes May. In my next post, I will tell you all about what I spent all my focus on in May. Truly a life altering month for me. Details coming soon...
Monday, March 28, 2011
A Shout Out
Even though, no one in my Voice class is a reader of this blog, I couldn't resist giving them a shout out after what I witnessed in today's class. It's not easy to venture into the depths of your emotion and then choose to wade through it in front of strangers. Of course, it is made a tad easier by the fact that those strangers are like-minded individuals that are going through the same process and want nothing more than to support one another. Which is always great.
As my teacher said, it is such an honour to witness people come alive; to connect to their inner life and to own their space in the world and claim it proudly! Well, it's not exactly what she said, but its where I sit with it right now. It's funny because though I have always been respectful of the journey the other people in class are on I have really only focused on my own. Today ,watching the journey of a few of my classmates unfold before me, it made me so proud to be on this collective journey to be more present in the world and well, like I said, I wanted to give them a shout out for their brave work today. It only inspires me to be braver in my own work and reminds me that perhaps I'm not so alone when I feel like I just might be down in the depths of my own emotion.
Thank you!
As my teacher said, it is such an honour to witness people come alive; to connect to their inner life and to own their space in the world and claim it proudly! Well, it's not exactly what she said, but its where I sit with it right now. It's funny because though I have always been respectful of the journey the other people in class are on I have really only focused on my own. Today ,watching the journey of a few of my classmates unfold before me, it made me so proud to be on this collective journey to be more present in the world and well, like I said, I wanted to give them a shout out for their brave work today. It only inspires me to be braver in my own work and reminds me that perhaps I'm not so alone when I feel like I just might be down in the depths of my own emotion.
Thank you!
Friday, March 18, 2011
I don't even know what to call this post...
It's been an interesting week. Late on Tuesday, I found out that I got cast in a commercial or a "webisode" to air online that was shooting on Wednesday. Not the greatest pay, but hey, it was a step in the right direction. I didn't even have to audition; the commercial was just cast from our headshots. I was quite excited. I mean this will only lead to bigger and better things right? I was already polishing up my acceptance speeches.
Well, long story short, because I don't want to dwell on this, I show up for my 8am call and soon I'm getting my make up done. Me and the four other women who are a part of the morning spot are called on to set a few times to figure out our placement on set. During one "on set" visit, we were being shuffled around the counter in the kitchen where the scene took place. At one point, I was told to step off to the side as the shuffling continued. Turns out, it looked too crowded around the counter, so I was cut from the spot. Disappointing? Sure. But, I was supposed to be in an afternoon spot as well and not all the other girls were, so I thought perhaps it made sense to cut me and not one of them. They gave me the morning off, but I ended up hanging out instead, and in fact, I had a great day. The coolest part of it being the craft truck that had everything my little heart could desire! Guys, they had Nutella!! I mean, I didn't have any but how cool is it that they had it?!
Anyway, time comes to prepare for the 2nd spot and my make up gets touched up; my hair is curled and my wardrobe is approved by the client. I'm all set to go. In fact, all seven of the actors being used for this spot are ready and waiting. By this point, it's 5pm. I mysteriously get called into the other room and in about 10 seconds, this hopeful day turns out to represent quite the opposite when I'm told I've been cut from the 2nd spot as well. Turns out they wanted the 2nd spot to be couples only, and there was one extra female and seeing as I was the only one who didn't get established in the first spot (because they ended up keeping most of the girls from the morning), I was out. This is the explanation I was given.
I tried to handle it as graciously as possible and be as understanding as I could muster, because the poor messenger did truly feel awful about it, and I didn't want to hinder any connections I had made. But, of course, my mind went to a million different reasons as to why I was not put in the commercial. Some of them rational and some of them less kind and more self deprecating. I won't go into those reasons here...I'm sure you can all use your own imagination.
I do believe everything happens for a reason, however, I have gained no insight into this day yet. Yesterday, I woke up still feeling quite disappointed and was second guessing my life choices and whether I have what it takes to do this. Today, I'm choosing to just leave this odd experience behind and try to focus on what will come. The fact that I have an audition on Monday helps a bit.
And, that's all I have to say about that.
What would you have called this post?
Well, long story short, because I don't want to dwell on this, I show up for my 8am call and soon I'm getting my make up done. Me and the four other women who are a part of the morning spot are called on to set a few times to figure out our placement on set. During one "on set" visit, we were being shuffled around the counter in the kitchen where the scene took place. At one point, I was told to step off to the side as the shuffling continued. Turns out, it looked too crowded around the counter, so I was cut from the spot. Disappointing? Sure. But, I was supposed to be in an afternoon spot as well and not all the other girls were, so I thought perhaps it made sense to cut me and not one of them. They gave me the morning off, but I ended up hanging out instead, and in fact, I had a great day. The coolest part of it being the craft truck that had everything my little heart could desire! Guys, they had Nutella!! I mean, I didn't have any but how cool is it that they had it?!
Anyway, time comes to prepare for the 2nd spot and my make up gets touched up; my hair is curled and my wardrobe is approved by the client. I'm all set to go. In fact, all seven of the actors being used for this spot are ready and waiting. By this point, it's 5pm. I mysteriously get called into the other room and in about 10 seconds, this hopeful day turns out to represent quite the opposite when I'm told I've been cut from the 2nd spot as well. Turns out they wanted the 2nd spot to be couples only, and there was one extra female and seeing as I was the only one who didn't get established in the first spot (because they ended up keeping most of the girls from the morning), I was out. This is the explanation I was given.
I tried to handle it as graciously as possible and be as understanding as I could muster, because the poor messenger did truly feel awful about it, and I didn't want to hinder any connections I had made. But, of course, my mind went to a million different reasons as to why I was not put in the commercial. Some of them rational and some of them less kind and more self deprecating. I won't go into those reasons here...I'm sure you can all use your own imagination.
I do believe everything happens for a reason, however, I have gained no insight into this day yet. Yesterday, I woke up still feeling quite disappointed and was second guessing my life choices and whether I have what it takes to do this. Today, I'm choosing to just leave this odd experience behind and try to focus on what will come. The fact that I have an audition on Monday helps a bit.
And, that's all I have to say about that.
What would you have called this post?
Monday, March 14, 2011
My Biggest Fear
So, I've just started another session of Voice Classes and I couldn't have been more apprehensive about it. I know that at this moment in time, it is absolutely the best thing for me and now that I've started auditioning more regularly, my work will only be better off for it. But you know that part of us that really likes to check out and not be tuned in to what's really going on around us, or, more importantly what's going on inside of us? Well, voice class makes that "stuff" hard to ignore, which is essentially why this class is so crucial to an actor. As I've shared previously on this blog, ignoring that "stuff" is precisely what gets in the way of my acting.
The other day I was thinking that, in my mind, actors who have really devoted themselves to this craft, make a huge sacrifice to be actors. They sacrifice because by a mere result of their practice they spend a lot of time in a state of consciousness that most people don't; a lot of people don't even realize that there are different states of consciousness; and I by no means am claiming to be an expert. (However, if you are perhaps questioning what I am talking about, without judgement, I strongly recommend you read "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho). With this state of consciousness, I believe, comes a responsibility, because you can't just be in tune to what's going on around you and inside of you and continue to ignore it. However, doing something about it is easier said that done, so its a constant struggle. Especially, when those around you have no idea that you find yourself in this state often; seeing things that perhaps they don't. It can feel lonely. And, it's hard to explain... and perhaps not worth explaining... when people don't know this experience for themselves. I wouldn't trade this state of consciousness for the world, because I truly believe it can lead to some amazing and beautiful experiences in both my work and my life. But, by the mere fact that you know it exists, means you can't just use it in your work, you have to incorporate it into your life. And, with that comes huge responsibility and a lot of tough decisions are forced upon you.
A long time ago, someone asked me what my greatest fear in life was. At the time I didn't have an answer; I had never thought about it. So, I thought about it and very soon I knew that more than anything, my biggest fear was not to ever reach my full potential in life. I absolutely feel I am meant to do great things; they might not be great to anyone else, but in my mind to think of all these "great things" excites me. However, I know that having allowed myself to live in a state of unconsciousness for so long, I have failed to reach any sort of greatness in my life; I really do believe this. I'm not saying that I don't have great things in my life...I do, but I don't feel like I personally have achieved anything great. This hurts me more than I can explain. I feel like I want to do so much and somewhere along the way I always find a way to get in my own way. For example, knowing I need to practice every day to even begin to call myself a devoted actor, I still let my daily practice fall along the wayside long ago (another reason, quite frankly, starting voice class scared me). Even now, I'm so tempted to write down excuses, but these are simply what gets in my way.
So, instead, I will write some of the "great" things I want to do...
I want to feel inspired on a regular basis
I want to inspire
I want to volunteer and make a difference in this life
I want to tell important stories through my acting
I want to act, regardless of the story
I want to write a play for myself to perform
I want to blog every day
I want to exercise every day
I want to find a way to put myself to bed early enough so that I can wake up early enough to do all the things I want to do in a day and still be able to function properly
I don't want to have a "day" job
I want to get outside every day and truly appreciate the beauty of nature; that's right... I want to hug trees!
I want to be a mom and every day I postpone getting to the all of the above makes me feel like I'm not ready to be the type of mom I want to be
I'm afraid this life will pass me by and I will not have done any of this
It's possible, you know...if I allow myself to live in a state of unconsciousness.
Oh, goodness, this voice class is going to mess me up. If I'm in a funk for the next 2 months, you all know why.
What is your biggest fear?
The other day I was thinking that, in my mind, actors who have really devoted themselves to this craft, make a huge sacrifice to be actors. They sacrifice because by a mere result of their practice they spend a lot of time in a state of consciousness that most people don't; a lot of people don't even realize that there are different states of consciousness; and I by no means am claiming to be an expert. (However, if you are perhaps questioning what I am talking about, without judgement, I strongly recommend you read "The Alchemist" by Paulo Coelho). With this state of consciousness, I believe, comes a responsibility, because you can't just be in tune to what's going on around you and inside of you and continue to ignore it. However, doing something about it is easier said that done, so its a constant struggle. Especially, when those around you have no idea that you find yourself in this state often; seeing things that perhaps they don't. It can feel lonely. And, it's hard to explain... and perhaps not worth explaining... when people don't know this experience for themselves. I wouldn't trade this state of consciousness for the world, because I truly believe it can lead to some amazing and beautiful experiences in both my work and my life. But, by the mere fact that you know it exists, means you can't just use it in your work, you have to incorporate it into your life. And, with that comes huge responsibility and a lot of tough decisions are forced upon you.
A long time ago, someone asked me what my greatest fear in life was. At the time I didn't have an answer; I had never thought about it. So, I thought about it and very soon I knew that more than anything, my biggest fear was not to ever reach my full potential in life. I absolutely feel I am meant to do great things; they might not be great to anyone else, but in my mind to think of all these "great things" excites me. However, I know that having allowed myself to live in a state of unconsciousness for so long, I have failed to reach any sort of greatness in my life; I really do believe this. I'm not saying that I don't have great things in my life...I do, but I don't feel like I personally have achieved anything great. This hurts me more than I can explain. I feel like I want to do so much and somewhere along the way I always find a way to get in my own way. For example, knowing I need to practice every day to even begin to call myself a devoted actor, I still let my daily practice fall along the wayside long ago (another reason, quite frankly, starting voice class scared me). Even now, I'm so tempted to write down excuses, but these are simply what gets in my way.
So, instead, I will write some of the "great" things I want to do...
I want to feel inspired on a regular basis
I want to inspire
I want to volunteer and make a difference in this life
I want to tell important stories through my acting
I want to act, regardless of the story
I want to write a play for myself to perform
I want to blog every day
I want to exercise every day
I want to find a way to put myself to bed early enough so that I can wake up early enough to do all the things I want to do in a day and still be able to function properly
I don't want to have a "day" job
I want to get outside every day and truly appreciate the beauty of nature; that's right... I want to hug trees!
I want to be a mom and every day I postpone getting to the all of the above makes me feel like I'm not ready to be the type of mom I want to be
I'm afraid this life will pass me by and I will not have done any of this
It's possible, you know...if I allow myself to live in a state of unconsciousness.
Oh, goodness, this voice class is going to mess me up. If I'm in a funk for the next 2 months, you all know why.
What is your biggest fear?
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Woe is me...
I had a "woe is me" moment that I feel a bit silly about today, but only because the day is over and not because I feel the moment wasn't justified...
On Monday, I found out I got a call back for an audition I went to last Thursday; an SOC (Silent on Camera; aka no lines) for an Egg Commercial. Well, I thought that the audition went horribly. I find these auditions so awkward. They are just taping my reactions; and again without a script I feel like I can never really guage how the audition went. So, needless to say, I was quite shocked and pleasantly surprised when I found out I had been called back. Officially, making it one call back per month for the last 2 months by the way...hey, I'm going to celebrate any success here!
The "woe is me" moment came yesterday morning when I woke up with a freakin cold sore!! I was just so annoyed and I know there are worse things in life, but really... are there worse things than being put on film for a call back with a big honking cold sore on your lip?? I don't know if there is! I did end up nursing it all day yesterday and luckily, this morning it is almost gone! A record for how short a cold sore has lasted and if anyone wants to know how, let me know, I'm all about sharing these tips. Us cold sore sufferers have to stick together!
Anyway, back to the call back. I feel like it went alright and now I'm really hopeful that I get it; even despite my aesthetic woes! With that hope, today I woke up feeling quite greatful and excited. Without really knowing why, I'm going to enjoy the rest of the day feeling this way! I even have dinner plans tonight with my sweets, so the feeling will reign on!
On Monday, I found out I got a call back for an audition I went to last Thursday; an SOC (Silent on Camera; aka no lines) for an Egg Commercial. Well, I thought that the audition went horribly. I find these auditions so awkward. They are just taping my reactions; and again without a script I feel like I can never really guage how the audition went. So, needless to say, I was quite shocked and pleasantly surprised when I found out I had been called back. Officially, making it one call back per month for the last 2 months by the way...hey, I'm going to celebrate any success here!
The "woe is me" moment came yesterday morning when I woke up with a freakin cold sore!! I was just so annoyed and I know there are worse things in life, but really... are there worse things than being put on film for a call back with a big honking cold sore on your lip?? I don't know if there is! I did end up nursing it all day yesterday and luckily, this morning it is almost gone! A record for how short a cold sore has lasted and if anyone wants to know how, let me know, I'm all about sharing these tips. Us cold sore sufferers have to stick together!
Anyway, back to the call back. I feel like it went alright and now I'm really hopeful that I get it; even despite my aesthetic woes! With that hope, today I woke up feeling quite greatful and excited. Without really knowing why, I'm going to enjoy the rest of the day feeling this way! I even have dinner plans tonight with my sweets, so the feeling will reign on!
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
I'm a Yogi!
Well, perhaps I am exaggerating, seeing as today was only my second Bikram Yoga class. For those of you who may not know, this is a 90 minute yoga class conducted in 40 degree temperatures. I had been mentally preparing myself for how tough it was going to be to get through it, and well, it certainly was pretty gruelling. However, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that my voice practice actually helped me with the work in class.
Because of my voice work, I was able to bring to class my ability to be still and clear my thoughts and focus on just exactly how I am feeling in that moment, and then to let it go. I brought the ability to take deeper breaths supported by my whole being and therefore in some stretches, take deeper stretches. After making these links between my voice work and my yoga class, I was not surprised when today, in class, certain deep stretches invoked some emotional release. The cool thing about Bikram is that any tears that may have come up were camouflaged by all the sweat, so it was all good! And, better yet, momentary and fleeting. I acknowledged the emotion and then let it go!
I think that these two components of my life will compliment each other quite nicely and I'm looking forward to the eventual benefits that regular practice in both disciplines will bring. Do you practice yoga? Any tips? Any discoveries? I would love to hear about it!
Because of my voice work, I was able to bring to class my ability to be still and clear my thoughts and focus on just exactly how I am feeling in that moment, and then to let it go. I brought the ability to take deeper breaths supported by my whole being and therefore in some stretches, take deeper stretches. After making these links between my voice work and my yoga class, I was not surprised when today, in class, certain deep stretches invoked some emotional release. The cool thing about Bikram is that any tears that may have come up were camouflaged by all the sweat, so it was all good! And, better yet, momentary and fleeting. I acknowledged the emotion and then let it go!
I think that these two components of my life will compliment each other quite nicely and I'm looking forward to the eventual benefits that regular practice in both disciplines will bring. Do you practice yoga? Any tips? Any discoveries? I would love to hear about it!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Anticipation
I started this year off with much anticipation of what was in store for me. I felt inspired to harness that rekindling anew and forge ahead with my new(ish) career as a working (aka auditioning) actor! It's amazing how one full week back at work at my full time job, however, has the power to dim my spirits some.
I've been booking more regular auditions which is great, however, it means leaving work in the middle of the day and then making up the hours I've missed. This is on top of the hours I'm making up for having my one day off a week to attend class, and to use as a general business day towards my acting career (something that this full time job has allowed, which I am soo greatful for!). This can sometimes mean, as will be case tomorrow, that I will have to be at work by 7am and stay till 7pm, because I had to leave work early for an audition yesterday and will have to dash away from the office tomorrow for 2 hours or more to go to another one. The amount of auditions is great but I'm finding that I have to be really careful not to feel burdened by how an audition effects my schedule, causing me to have to stay at the office later or come in earlier...or both.
And, yes, of course, I will deal. Trying to fit auditions in to my schedule is a good "burden" to have. I'm noticing, however, how I can sometimes turn this positive "problem" into something negative, like feeling burdened by going to an audition because it means I have to work later, etc. It's this type of negative thinking that I know I have let take hold of me in the past; and is probably not so attractive on me once I get to the audition ..." Yes, hi, please hire me...just do it quickly please!"
So, I just have to be extra careful this time around to be thankful that I have this so called "problem." and rejoice in the fact that I am capable of sorting it out. When I first started the rekindling, there was a huge awareness of how this had to happen now...while I had a window in my life where I have a schedule that allows for flexibility. Now, I myself have to practice being as flexible as my schedule allows.
Oh, and speaking of auditions, yesterday's was pretty funny! Nothing like being surrounded by model types to get your confidence up in time for an audition. It was an audition for a print ad and well, it was just humorous...let's just leave it at that! Well, with that said, I'm off to the gym! Lol...
I've been booking more regular auditions which is great, however, it means leaving work in the middle of the day and then making up the hours I've missed. This is on top of the hours I'm making up for having my one day off a week to attend class, and to use as a general business day towards my acting career (something that this full time job has allowed, which I am soo greatful for!). This can sometimes mean, as will be case tomorrow, that I will have to be at work by 7am and stay till 7pm, because I had to leave work early for an audition yesterday and will have to dash away from the office tomorrow for 2 hours or more to go to another one. The amount of auditions is great but I'm finding that I have to be really careful not to feel burdened by how an audition effects my schedule, causing me to have to stay at the office later or come in earlier...or both.
And, yes, of course, I will deal. Trying to fit auditions in to my schedule is a good "burden" to have. I'm noticing, however, how I can sometimes turn this positive "problem" into something negative, like feeling burdened by going to an audition because it means I have to work later, etc. It's this type of negative thinking that I know I have let take hold of me in the past; and is probably not so attractive on me once I get to the audition ..." Yes, hi, please hire me...just do it quickly please!"
So, I just have to be extra careful this time around to be thankful that I have this so called "problem." and rejoice in the fact that I am capable of sorting it out. When I first started the rekindling, there was a huge awareness of how this had to happen now...while I had a window in my life where I have a schedule that allows for flexibility. Now, I myself have to practice being as flexible as my schedule allows.
Oh, and speaking of auditions, yesterday's was pretty funny! Nothing like being surrounded by model types to get your confidence up in time for an audition. It was an audition for a print ad and well, it was just humorous...let's just leave it at that! Well, with that said, I'm off to the gym! Lol...
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
A Call Back
Happy New Year everyone! This year, I hope to blog more regularly in order to get closer to the original intention of why I started it in the first place. To share my journey and by doing so, stay accountable and focused!
Last year was an important one for me. I was determined to take my acting career more seriously and really give it an honest go. I arranged my life in a way that would make this more feasible; I got back into regular classes; I found an agent that I am very happy about and; I got new head shots, which have actually helped me to book a lot of auditions almost immediately, so that's great!
I feel like all of this renewed focus has been paying off, so it was great to end the year with my first ever professional commercial call back! I went for an audition mid December for a breakfast cereal and it was one of a few auditions where I came out of it feeling like it went well. Most of the time, I come out of auditions not having a feeling about it one way or the other. This time, however, there was a script, which always helps. It's something to explore and get into. And, to be honest, in the case of commercials, just have fun with and not take it too seriously (the script not the audition, of course). I left feeling excited, which was good, because this was my first audition with the casting director that connected me to my agent and I really just wanted to make a good impression.
Sooo, when I got a call back, I felt like that's exactly what I had done and it felt like all of my work this past year has paid off. It was like an affirmation of sorts telling me that I'm on the right track and it has all been worth it. As the commercial is shooting today, I don't believe I've booked it...but I'm choosing to look at this experience as a victory all the same!
Here's hoping that this year continues to bring positive affirmations to encourage us along our path of rekindling and realizing our dreams!
I would love to hear about any of your experiences of : 1) rekindling your dream; 2) positive affirmations you've received along the way; 3) inspiration that has kept you going.
Here's wishing you all a year of rekindling and inspiration!
Last year was an important one for me. I was determined to take my acting career more seriously and really give it an honest go. I arranged my life in a way that would make this more feasible; I got back into regular classes; I found an agent that I am very happy about and; I got new head shots, which have actually helped me to book a lot of auditions almost immediately, so that's great!
I feel like all of this renewed focus has been paying off, so it was great to end the year with my first ever professional commercial call back! I went for an audition mid December for a breakfast cereal and it was one of a few auditions where I came out of it feeling like it went well. Most of the time, I come out of auditions not having a feeling about it one way or the other. This time, however, there was a script, which always helps. It's something to explore and get into. And, to be honest, in the case of commercials, just have fun with and not take it too seriously (the script not the audition, of course). I left feeling excited, which was good, because this was my first audition with the casting director that connected me to my agent and I really just wanted to make a good impression.
Sooo, when I got a call back, I felt like that's exactly what I had done and it felt like all of my work this past year has paid off. It was like an affirmation of sorts telling me that I'm on the right track and it has all been worth it. As the commercial is shooting today, I don't believe I've booked it...but I'm choosing to look at this experience as a victory all the same!
Here's hoping that this year continues to bring positive affirmations to encourage us along our path of rekindling and realizing our dreams!
I would love to hear about any of your experiences of : 1) rekindling your dream; 2) positive affirmations you've received along the way; 3) inspiration that has kept you going.
Here's wishing you all a year of rekindling and inspiration!
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