Funny People out there

I'm constantly amused that there are in fact some people with a sense of humor and that I can find humor in some of the most unfunny things as well.

This weeks humor:

A bumper sticker: My Border Collie is smarter than your honor student.

And stuck in the window of my sadly taped up jeep window, a polite suggestion: Business card for Rock Riders New and used Jeep parts and Accessories. Too funny.

Off to see more plays this weekend.

Stay safe and warm!

I like to move it, move it...

The short sound bytes first:

Moor like fog yesterday, dank and heavy, not so very cold but strangely dense and moist to a bone chilling degree. Would have been a nice night for a walk if I lived in a place where there were fields of heather, or meadows with crows, or maybe the East Foothills. AS it was I worked late and then watched the worst movie ever...

Worst movie ever...Sukiyaki Western Django.....snore. That is all I have to say on that.

BEST movie ever...Transporter 3. Although there was a bit of uneccessary character development present in the form of a romance, the stunt and humor and the Jason Statham were all very nice. Probably not worth all 5 RRD's on my scale, but I'm going to give it anyway becuase it was so damn fun and didn't een try to take itself seriously. Love a man in a suit.

Officially announced yesterday that I will take over Ron's job as the Local Marketing Director starting the first of the year. Well Technically the 5th, since my first thing to do is take a day (Friday the 2nd ) off as I have capped out all my vacation at 240 hours. I may even have to take a few days in March or April to keep racking it up for the trip to Africa in October. The job will be hard, and time consuming, but should be a great opportunity to learn which I've been lacking for a bit.




Melody has her own ad now and is officially up for adoption. She LOVES humans and food and tolerates Lincoln who I am convinced is in love with her and tries to be polite to Paxton. Paxton is a bit annoyed with her but Lincoln follows her around everywhere. That extra leg and all that color must be magic!

I think she ought to be called Houdini. Either her or her two friends are breaking her out of the bedroom each day. She's so not happy being left in the room by herself anymore and wants to cuddle and just sit at the window mostly. She's quiet and well behaved, just not content to be alone.




Thanksgiving was nice. Food, Family, played and drank with the family, lazed about, did the board game and video watching stuff. Dad had to work on Friday and I was maxed out and not feeling so great on Sat and Sun, but nice to have a decent break from work.

As the end of the year approaches, and I just don't know HOW that happened....I am looking to having a REAL New Year's Eve. Not one spent asleep, looking after other people, hosting an event, pining for an oversees boyfriend, moving, or dealing with anything "responsible". There will be an excess of expectations and responsibility in the coming months so I want the new year to be a real celebration of all that has been accomplished and the fun that can be had. And I'm drawing a total blank. So I am accepting applications....you may make your suggestion here and feel free to pass it on to anyone you think has good ideas....

HELP SUSANNAH DECIDE WHAT TO DO FOR NEW YEARS!!!!

New stripes on the street in downtown San Jose. All clean and reflecty. Nice.

And on that note, the halloween decorations are still up in the office...time for yet another clean...

Things I am Thankful For

The obvious, family, health and job are of course things to be thankful for, but among my list of things to be thankful that are less obvious would be:

Netflix...allowing me to be lazy and not miss out again on pop culture. Season 5 of Buffy the Vampire slayer is approaching shark jumping territory, but I still have hope. At least they haven't killed off Giles and Spike.

Transporter 3...for the tagline Do NOT Step AWAY from the VEHICLE alone. Very excited to see that this weekend sometime.

Wedding Magazines...This is my totally guilty pleasure. Pretty dress, happy looking peope, some of the best natural light photography and GREAT ideas for table setting, fundriasers, and gifts. Screw actually getting married, just enjoy the magazines. Plus reading one on a plane prevents any unneccessary unwanted flirting from strange men.

Lychee Martini's....making me "sophiticated" without being too much of a lush.

Guacamole....you can't ask for a better fruti unless it's mango or lychee.

Mango...making dessert nearly unneccessary

Smart people....making up for all the stupid ones out there.

Kitties...and all other cute animals, but snuggling with a kitty in the morning has got to be one of the greatest luxuries in life. Unconditional, fuzzy, love.

Music...for providing a soundtrack for my adventures through life and making driving to the store that much more "exciting."

Blankets...keeping my energy bill low, the earth healthier and my toes super snuggly.

Yellow... best color ever. My Jeep likes it too.

Animals that do art...from birds, to gorillas, to elephants, the fact that animals have artistic drives makes me smile a bit more and feel that much more connected.

Sub Woofer...having the ground shake a little when things explode on tv...makes me feel alive, kind of tingly, and superior. Is that wrong?


Have a great Thanksgiving people

Sing loud Melody!

Welcome to the house (until she is adopted) Melody!

She surpasses Paxton even in terms of being affectionate and though in the bedrooom under quarantine for a week I have no doubt she will get along with the boys when she is free to follow about the house. She is a sleek and feminie beauty with absolutely no pretentions. She is there to love. Full stop. This little girl, at under 9 pounds is just the epitome of sweetness. She was turned out on the street after her owner died in Contra Costa Countyand a bunch of ferel cats were beating her up but she is safe and warm and very happy now. She loves music, and being talked to, and will stare into your eyes and practice her scales on you. VERY cute.

Happy Endings and then Some

So much to do and so much to report and less time to do it due to the fact that I was in Houston for a National Arts Marketing Project Conference. Got to hang with the Houston relatives my first night which was great. Glad to be reminded that intense sarcasm and wit, along with intelligent conversation runs in the family, even if you have to live in Texas =].





Cousin Jody and me on the left and then my cousin Amy with her adorable family and Aunt Nancy on the far right in blue. This is my dad's side of the family.

The conference itself was interesting. Not a lot of new stuff for me, but a good sense of what we need to continue to implement, perfect, and educate others on. Some good food, nice people, but over all too much time away from the work that was piling up, and a school exam like schedule that was exhausting. My favorite discovery was the Southern Food and Beverage Museum, the Senior Curator Elizabeth was super nice. If you are ever in Lousiana, stop by her Museum.

Very well organized, and the Hilton Hotel was posh beyond belief, as someone who sleeps o a couch by a loud street with kitties needing attention periodically at night, I was impressed at how easy the first couple nights it was to sleep in a BED. I missed the kitties though and was so strung out on caffiene from the late nights and early mornings that last night wasn't as soothing.

Plane travel is made easy in some ways (I haven't been on a plane in over 2 1/2 years) I had forgetten how AWESOME the email early check in is, and the hotel even has a place you can print your boarding passes in their lobby before you go. It's those little technical advancements that totally kill me. The Dallas and Houston airports also have electronic device "Bet Buy" vending machines for iphones, ipods, bluetooth headsets and that kind of thing. What a disposable society. Luxury massage chairs and super quick cell phone charging stations line the concourse as well as free internet and flat screen Tv's. On the disappointing side, although the airport is more tech friendly, the 3 1/2 hour flight from SJ to Dallas was without music, tv, or movie. No screens, no place to plug in my earphones. So I read. Great story, good book about a barn owl raised from 4 days old. I'm sending it to my sister Brette next week to read. Moving on to Dewey the Library Cat. I'm in my animal and human story phase. The key to reading for me, as I'm SO slow, and its not my most favorite luxury activity is to find things I like. Animals, Dragons, Travel, something I can connect to or learn about.

In general flight reminds me how many people should not be allowed to be parents and how cell phones should be earned priveledges, not rights. The number of people talking ON the plane and having to be asked to turn their phones off so we could take off, and the amount of people yaking the SECOND the plane laned truely irritated me. Maybe I'm JUST not that important, or more patient than I thought that I don't find it necessary to tell someone I JUST landed. I don't want to hear you explain to people that it should be x amount of time for you to get to your car after baggage. I guess maybe I'm just not into stating the obvious in front of a packed plane. The great thing is there are screens at the airport and onine and phone updates on your plane...they probably know before you land that your plane is going to be diverted to SFO due to the SJ airport being closed due to fog. Yes. How jacked is that. It made for a long retunr and an expensive cab ride, but I finally made it back to the cats (who were excited to crawl into a box and shred papaer from an amazon.com delivery) after 1am. All in all a worthwhile exercise personally and somewhat professionally.


Upon arrival I learned that so far the adoption of Queen Victoria has been going well. I hope to talk to Merle this coming week and maybe even visit the pair to see how they are doing....and finish up the article I'm writing for them...




I love this photo because as affectionate as Queenie is, she was NOT a fan of being held, and of course the photo of Paxton and Hamish and I makes Paxton look less than pleased. As loveable as she was and as much as I felt a connection to Queenie this picture, the fact that she is in his arms, is really something. I'm super pleased it seems to be working out. He's very attentive to her, and she, being a Queen is happy to receive it and sleeps on his bed to reward him for his cottling.


For the Theatre Folks in the area, go see RTE's Mr. Marmalade. SO hilarious. I haven't laughed that hard in probably a year.

On the home front, for those just tuning in to the drama, Hamish and I have decided to extracate ourselves from our relatinship. Too many factors, too much distance, and ultimately it just wasn't going to even be what it needed to for us to be comfortable with Happily Ever After. And so, some space, some time alone, some focusing on work which will be very exciting and demanding starting the first of the year for many reasons, and I'll be back to my old self in no time. Learning the Banjo, how to cook Morrocan food, and maybe taking a class and doing some writing....oh and winning the lotto...a girl can dream, yes? In fact, it should be required.

Change we need...a change from change would be nice too!

change is huge as large amounts of happening go on in Susannah land, but none so important as the election...




So no matter who becomes the president we are in for some major change, which as I mentioned...definately coincides with the themes of change which have been thrust on me in the form of being newly single again, taking on some significant change at work, finishing up directing and moving back to writing, and getting ready for a Houston reunion as I head out to the National Arts Marketing Project Conference next week....

All that and a new president.

Don't forget to vote, or rather don't slack off and pretend it doesn't matter. Even if you are unthrilled at the Presidental selection, you gotta have an opinion on 8 and 4....mine happens to be no, but that's all you get help with!

Career Development Primate....

In my ever increasing efforts to learn more about all things, especially those things of the more tech variety, I have set up a simple survey using Survey Monkey. Feel free to take it as I will be compiling the results and publishing them using other technology tools that I am in the process of adding to my "skill set."


SURVEY OF AWESOME!!!



In other news, the adorable Queenie, Her Roundness of Fostercare Kitty Land, has been placed as a single cat to an 87 year old woman who lives by herself in San Jose. Although she is only a foster, I think this is EXACTLY where she belongs, and will stay I believe. I want to throw her an adoption party when it becomes official, but for now I feel like a big chapter in her life is closed and an even better one can start. WEEEEEE!!!

Crazy Crazy going on, more to report soon!

One of the Reasons I Love California

Middle of October and my mom's garden is still amazing!

I notice a lot more flying things, butterflies and such this year, not only here but in my apartment...

Roses are going strong

...and gardenia's smell lovely.

I even got a few rangpoor limes from a tree. The wind is picking up though and the nights are cool.

Missing Links...that are hot

Things I love today:

Virgin Shark Births - Hot.

Virtual Spending Sprees - Even Hotter.

Political Statements - NOT voting video. HOOOOTTTT.

Hats - Totally Hot.

If only I had more space this would be hot!

Queen for another Day

I had very high hopes on Friday (Despite the worst cramps and headache in AGES) that Queenie would be adopted. Sadly, although a kitty who needed a home very badly did get adopted by the very nice Angela Flowers, it was not the darling roundness Queen Victoria. After about an hour of being very sweet and purring and such, and chatting about Angela's other cat and past experiences with a cat with Heart Disease, it was ultimately down to trying to "sell" her as a hard cat to adopt. Despite her being socialized and well behaved, few people will take in an older cat, 9 yearsish with a known heart murmur....I don't know how much harder to adopt a cat could be to be honest, and not still be a really rewarding situation....but..I know I just take it personally.





The ultrasound ($450, bringing the total for Queenie so far to $627) not to mention, food, litter, transport, etc. showed a very MILD murmur and no solid identification of any disease. It's likely she will never develop anything, or it may be something and will most certainly be caught early enough if another ultra sound is done in the next 6-12 months. Medication is about $30 a month if she indeed does develop something but for now she's just a lovely round kitty, stuck with Elaine up in Oakland with 17 other cats. Very overwhelming for her apparently, but we will see. If things don't improve with the number of cats up there, I may take her back under my foster care again so she is calmer. I just don't have enough space at the moment to justify her and not enough time to look after a kitten so it's a bit of a challenge. I need to be saving and decluttering, not aquiring more fur.

I do believe she will have a very happy ending...just not as soon as I thought...we will see...

Tech week is stressful as usual...more so becuase I don't have a stage manger and there lots of food and props that are needed for this show and not staff to do it...the show will be great though, even if we are miming everything =]

Terrorism in a time of economic down spiral

It occured to me when I ran into this headline, how easy fear can be used as a tool, and fear, when funds are low, and bombs are scarce, is just as easy a WMD.

"Thousands of pilgrims panicked by false rumors of a bomb stampeded at a Hindu temple in western India on Tuesday, killing at least 168 people in the crush to escape, officials said.
More than 12,000 people gathered at the temple at dawn to celebrate a Hindu festival in the historic city of Jodhpur when the stampede occurred early Tuesday morning.
The temple floors were slick with coconut milk as thousands of devotees broke coconuts as religious offerings, causing pilgrims to slip and fall as they scrambled to escape, said Ramesh Vyas, a pilgrim who was standing in line."

Newman and Reflections on a Funeral

Another passing that is certainly being felt by a great many people...

Great video of Paul Newman speaking about the education that was obtained at Kenyon (My Alma Mater) and all things honorable http://www.kenyon.edu/x42610.xml
...if we had more selfless and innovative, forward thinking people...the world MIGHT be a better place. Said best from his daughter, ask yourself, What Would Paul Newman Do? http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/?rn=3906861&cl=9940819&ch=4226715&src=news


It's seems appropriate that in the wake of all the tributes and memorials it seems appropriate to add my recent observations from a friends mom's memorial....the humor cuts the heart in a way for anyone to lose someone that has such a positive influence on oneself and whose imfluence by the turn out and emotion in the church clearly impacted many.


I've been to many "celebrations of life" which are always packed with videos and songs, and a tribute to the passed in a very....broadway kind of way....I gues this comes from knowing lots of theatre people who die way too soon and it's just too painful to drape "the end" in the dark finality of a true memorial service. Although the celebration of life I think is a very valid way to do just that, celebrate their life, I've never personally been so convinced its always the best way to deal and cope with the actual death. That being said, I have less issue with death than many so I kind of am one of the exceptions to the rule. On this particular occasion this was a church and not a theatre, and though there were a few smiles, and a few songs, their was definately a difficult air of loss everyone couldn't help but acknowledge hanging about the short service.

Observation 1. I'm spiritual but not religious and I always have a challenge keeping my eyes from rolling when religion becomes the answer to all things. Across the front of the church in giant letters was "With God All Things Are Possible" Mathew something something. I of course read With DOG All Things Are Possible. This made much more sense to me. But you can't knock what gives people comfort, and actually the quote of a bible passage, or a hymn is actually comforting to me, NOT becuase I know that the afterlife is indeed a life, but becuase it immediately takes the emotion OUT of it for some reason. This warrant more study, as I wonder what I'm reacting to and why.

Observation 2. Color is the new black. I'm not sure when the trend changed, but many people at this service were in colors. Not like what I wear should be how I honor those that passed, but I'm not sure when people decided to not put thought into the whole respectiful black or dark colored attire.

Observation 3. I remember one of the reasons I don't like church. There's no clapping in Church. When someone speaks well, or sings through tears (more on that later) my hands would like to honor them by clapping. But you can't do this in church. And I still don't know why the poetry about someone's life when so aptly captured can not be acknowledged through applause. Let everyone know that there should be plenty of clapping insupport of everyone who is articulate at my funeral.

Observation 4. I always was amazed on American Idol that they vote you off and then make you sing. You are faced with being the most sucky that week, and losing your chance and fame and fortune and then you have to turn around and remember lyrics and sing on cue. This would be hell for me. Well that and door to door sales in someplace cold, but singing through tears would be a close second. So you can imagine if you have lost a close friend and fellow church memeber how difficult it would be to do them the honor of singing for them. And yet it was done amazingly well. And again, I can't clap. I know, it's not about THEM, but their tribute was appropriate, and moving, and it helped me to get to know the deceased better by hearing that song, that way.

Observation 5. This was the first service where a song on piano was played instead of making a comment. Not a song on the program, but when the mic was being passed around for people to share their stories and comments, words failed and a song was played instead. Very interesting and very moving indeed.

Observation 6. If you are an emotional person, bring tissue to a memorial service. No naming names here, but even I, the cold heartless bitch, knows to bring tissue just in case. I supplied additional people who were not prepared with tissue. Silly Rabbits.

Observation 7. A flask will always make it to a service. Always. I was amused, though not at all surprised to see a few familiar faces toasting to loved one, and taking a bit of the edge of an emotional week.

And there you have it. Goodbyes all around...and more to come I fear before the year is out. Be careful out there, and be good to each other!

Money Talks

Flag Day closed to a great Saturday crowd of 32 (responsive and appreciative and our biggest audience of the run) and a sad crowd of 6 people on Sunday, one of whom walked out after about 20 minutes. We struck the set, including the 800 pound half of a car in just about 2 hours. I got my paycheck and as a new and spontaneous, just made up rule (for today anyway) I will be donating 10% of my theatre checks to worthy causes.

Today's causes... $25 went to Renegade Theatre Experiement. Their last show was really a good one, and it's nice to see them being smart and committed again to the cause which with dwindlig funds and volunteer support can be the death of a non-profit and too often is. Their theatre is interesting and compelling and has greatly improved since they took a break to regroup, and I like that they are doing more to consisitantly engage the renegade supporters.

$15 went to Planned Parenthood in honor of Sarah Palin. I received the following and thought it was a GREAT way to make a political statement without having to make a contribution to a specific political campaign.

Instead of sending around emails about how horrible she is, let's all make a donation to Planned Parenthood. In Sarah Palin's name. And here's the good part: when you make a donation to PP in her name, they'll send her a card telling her that the donation has been made in her honor. Here's the link to the Planned Parenthood website:
https://secure.ga0.org/02/pp10000_inhonor
You'll need to fill in the address to let PP know where to send the "in Sarah Palin's honor" card.
I suggest you use the address for the McCain campaign headquarters, which is:
McCain for President
1235 S. Clark Street
1st Floor
Arlington , VA 22202

PS make sure you use that link above or choose the pulldown of Donate--Honorary or Memorial Donations, not the regular "Donate Online"

I can only hope that she at least recycles the thousands of notifications that PPH will receive on her behalf. It's viral campagining at it's savviest. Can I get a woot woot!?

And finally $20 went to Women in Recovery. A fellow actress I have directed before is heavily involved with this chemical dependency recovery group and in liu of being able to go to what looks like a really fascinating interactive fundraiser on drugs and alchohol in film, I decided that since today was apparently a giving day, I would do so for this group.

On the Queenie front, her roundness is being much braver or more forgetfull or perhaps getting bored of the scenery in the bedroom. She will follow me to the kitchen in the morning, or explore the hallway until Lincoln rushes/slinks over to investigate at which point Queenie decides she's been brave enough for one day. Paxton makes me laugh because he literally could care less. He's so mellow when it comes to other cats, he just barely notices her, sniffs a bit, but often time she'll hiss and freak out or just stare at him and he'll do his best to fully ignore her. Given time I think Queenie would tolerate the boys just fine (she doesn't hide under the bed, and even after a run in with them, she's very content to put and be pet by me), but hopefully she will find a good home where she ran follow her human around without the nuissance of running into other cats.

The vet said I can't be in there for the appointment for her ultra sound, (sad) but maybe that is for the best. I know she is pretty laid back, but it might not be so pretty for her to be pinned down and jellied up and ultrasounded. If I'm squeamish about giving her a bath, I can't imagine I'd bee too keen on watching her be manhandled...

Watch a couple of films over the weekend as I tried to sleep and couldn't (SJ State is back in full swing and it's even louder on the street at night than normal). Made of Honor...pretty dresses and kilts and scenery, but trite fluff of a story and acting. A good no brainer, 2 1/2 RRD's for me.
Harold and Kumar Escape From guantanamo Bay. I suppose it was what was expected. Rauncy as all get out, and i laughed out loud exactly once when someone called someone else an anus. Anus is a really funny word. I'll no doubt use that one this week. All in all, a pathetic 1 RRD from me. I should have heeded the sign when my first copy of it wouldn't work and I exchanged it for another. I'll know next time. And Misconception. I think becuase I just don't have that baby biological clock thing going for me that I just wasn't feeling it, but the premise was unique (young woman finds out she has 1 egg left and 4 days to get pregnant so her friends devise all sorts of plans to try to get her to have sex with random people, all of which fail while her recently ex boyfriend, a babyphobe, who she was with for 6 years is all she really can think of) so it gets 2 1/2 RRD's. I just wish they would cast real British Actors in it instead of Heather Grahm....her talent is not so brilliant that we need her. She's now Gwyneth Paltrow or Rene Zellweger. Season 3 of Buffy the Vampire Slayer is going well, still enjoying that...glad I don't have to wait to find out what happens on some of those cliff hanger episodes.

And there you have it..more soon...

Black, White, and Cute All Over

First an update from two of my favorites places in the world. Safari West not only welcomed this adorable baby Giraffe this month, but introduced a Rhino pair named Fred and Ginger to the sanctuary. I can't wait to get back there, not only for all the animals, but for the most comfortable bed ever!

The news from my other favorite place the Monterey Bay Aquarium is not as good. The amazing Jellyfish exhibit closed last week. I still haven't had time to get the skinny on why, but it was one of my most favorite places in the world.

Flag Day closes this weekend and as I've mentioned audiences have been WAY small, but the talkbacks have been amazing. Really surprising, and moving, and educational in every way I had hoped. I had in interesting experience, with and interview done for a podcast in regards to a bit of table turning. You can listen to it for yourself, but I found myself irritated that I was referred to as the White Director, and my color was called out several times. Now as a discussion on race, sure, it's relevant to call this out I suppose, but it really irritated me that it felt used in a completey non-descriptive way. It felt like it was intentiallay used to single me out, or to put a negative spin or explain "bias." If I had said "my black actors are doing a great job. I think my black actors have really hit the nail on the head. I think that as a black actor etc etc etc" I would been attacked, but somehow the interviewer felt it was needed, or maybe that was a tactic. He also mentions that he thought I was intimidated by him. Now kids...honestly, does anything intimidate me? But he also spells my name wrong, so we take it all with a grain of salt. But it's an interesting interview on the fly regardless, and if you haven't already been to the show, it's certainly worth it for the discussion you will have afterwards.

Fly paper still exists in case you were wondering. I have this weird mini investation of little tiny fly/gnat things that are really annoying. Since I am against sprays in a big way, especially with cats about, I actually got fly paper. It's improving the situation, but i'd say its not all together eliminating the problem, and I do have to say I don't like gnat carcus strewn paper hanging about my kitchen, but you do what you gotta do. After 2 glasses of wine were spoilt with half a dozen little buggers diving in (lush!) I had to remedy the situation. I don't honestly know where they came from, though I did notice them pop up in really hot weather and after I received some orchids from Elaine for the Cat's Pajamas. Who knows. They REALLY like wine though...

Although it doesn't quite feel like autumn the pumpkin spice lattes are back and it's like a cup full of fall. So yumy. Bones are aching too, so the weather must be changing. It's beena hot and dry summer and I'm acutally looking forward to a clensing rain and a nip in the air. Cats are WAY snuggly too with each other and with me. That's a cute and furry thing. Speaking of which, Queenie has her ultrasound heart appointment on Tuesday so I'll have more on that. Apparently I have to drop her off so probably no video...but I'll ask anyway....

Jeep engine light went on again. Bummer. I'll take it in on Monday, which will get me up early and riding 6 miles on the bike which I look forward too. I've been racing around, not eating very well or often, and sleeping even worse, so some exercise and good old fashioned sweat will be nice. If only my ipod weren't busted. The Luxeries you get used to. Sigh.

The New facebook sucks. Bad move. Just as well though, big time suck on weekends instead of working. Speaking of which, I'll be going to my first work trip to the National Arts Marketing Conference in Houston in early November. Should be interesting. I heard a good speaker at a marketing workshop deal yesterday on You tube. Good stuff. I remember what an academic I am at heart. I love information, particuarly when explained well and presented by an engaging speaker. And when you don't get graded.

Designer runthrough tonight for what's going to be a great show, Over the River and Through the Woods! Opens in 3 weeks...

I've made friends for life in this cast of amazing, intelligent, lively people, as well as felt like I've gotten closer to a couple of friends that were already in my life. It's a good thing and I think it will show on stage. We eat a LOT during rehearsal too...everyone brings cookies, candy, and treats...it's a very maternal cast =]

Anyway....Hope the weekend treats you well! Be safe!

Death in Numbers

Seems to be that time of year... several sad deaths in the extended family these days...

2 weeks age the mother of a swim team friend was hit by a drunk driver...

This week the mom of a close friend of my brothers passed of a heart attack...service next Friday in Palo Alto.

This is compounded by 2 dreams I've had about car accidents which I'm not sure is dues to Flag Day which certainly deals with a car accident victim, my own car engine light being on and slipping into my dreams, or maybe just that the street noise has seemed to be loud this week with SJ State back in session. No matter, I'm on alert...braced...bad things in threes and all....hoping my loved ones are safe.

Be careful out there....

that's a lot of cats!

You think I'm the cat lady...think again....trumped.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwM6f0liHpo

Flag Day

The 1st review is in...fromthe metro.... I'd disagree with her on the comedy part, there were plenty of laughs, but yes, the topics are intended to make you think, and to certainly make you think if you DO laugh, what are you laughing AT.... certainly the rest of the audience, who were discussion at intermission and days afterward were impacted by the piece... I do wish MORE people would be in the audience....stilll..we are doing what we should..making people think.

http://www.metroactive.com/metro/09.10.08/stage-flag-0837.html

Come see it Sat or Sun this week or next. I'm not there on Fridays, but go see it anyway if you can't come Sat....really worth it to see ....

Her Royal Roundness....Phase 2...

So, I've just been given the green light to arrange another vet visit, with a specialist for the darling foster cat Queeny. It's one of the risks you take I suppose in rescue, that the information you have on the cat is correct, that the cat is healthy and that the cat will be adopted, but as I mentioned before if you don't take it, you won't even know. MCA has taken on 13 kittens who are getting close to the non kitten phase (4-5 months) which make them almost as difficult to adopt out cats over 6 with special needs. There were over a dozen of these cats being fostered by another group in such a way that we had to step in. Just sitting in cages, with no attention to medical visits, and no real exposure to people to actually get adopted. The bills for these kitties was a big undertaking, which is why we had to wait to see if Queeny was going to get round two or if we would pass this unknown issue of the heart murmur onto a kind soul who would adopt with the means to explore treatment. The Vet will call in a cardiologist specialist for the ultasond and if I am aloud to video it I will. Until then, here is a peek at why we are going the extra mile for this sweetie. For a Queen she is certainly low maintenance. I'll also try to get a couple shots of Paxton and Lincoln's exploration as they SLOWLY are introduced to her. Prior to her vet visit next week sometime she will get a bath, a task I'm not looking forward to but I will be getting assistance from an expert (and will get video of that as well.)

Her Roundness' Vet Visit... Step 2 in the Adoption Process

So a trip the the vet. As I walked in a man was surrendering two kittens, maybe 8 weeks old, so CUTE, the vet tech had both of them just sitting on her chest/neck. Otherwise a small quiet office. Queenie was good, didn't meow, was content to just sit in her carrier until they were ready for her.

The good news: She was a total PRO, not at all phased by having her belly shaved to see her spaying scar, having her sanitary clip/trim done (think brazillian for kitties that are very fluffy so they are kept, uh...clean down there) , her nails clipped, and didn't peep at all when given her shots. No struggling at all and the 3 nurses that were handling her all commented she was very cool. I do not think this cat is unused to being handled a lot. She's just super mellow and trusting, not skittish at all. And round, did I mention ROUND. Cracks me up. No mites, no evidence of tapeworm, and the IH FELV/FIV test came back negative. They drew blood for a full function screening to make sure liver, kidneys and all her bits are working well.

The not as good news is, they feel she is closer to 9-10 years old not 6 due to some significant tartar build up on her teeth (which can be cleaned relatively easy, with out sedation even later on if need be) , and a random cyst on her head. It's not itchy, or painful to the touch and without testing it we wouldn't obviously know if it's something that would need to be removed. We can decide if that needs pursuing after we get the blood work back, they can take a needle sample of it to find out if it's something dangerous or not. Dogs and people get them when they get older, so it could be just a bump and she could have been born with it.

The Bad news is....she does have a heart murmur. Like a good "mom" I have been researching and as I'm sure you know, this can be bad and it can be pretty much nothing. Only further testing, an ultrasound by a cardiologist would be of any use down the road, but she could easily have been born with it and go on for several years withoutever developing a problem. The good news is she is not exhibiting ANY symptoms of it being heart disease extrenally. Very healthy appetite, she's playful and perky, not breathing shallow, or wheezing. She's really quite a little ball (and I do mean BALL) of hilarity. This is a call I don't have to make so much.

At the tune of $177 (with rescue discounts) so far (just ONE of Paxtons' ear visits mind you=])MCA would only recoup a little more than half that cost if someone adopted her with no further testing of anything. It's a good lessson in the finance of rescue for sure. There are risks when you save a kitty that they won't be healthy, that they may be expensive, or that no one will adopt them, but at the same time, I think the risk is greater if you don't take the chance. Queenie is delightful, she's just so amusing and funny, and she has no idea how comic she is. Regardless of the length of time left she has, she is going to make someone VERY happy. She's already taught me a ton about things I thought I already knew. She's a valuable mentor. A very ROUND mentor. =]

My fingers are crossed that everything else looks good for her... i'll try to get some video of her tonight!

Queen Victoria and the Path of Saving One Cat

So here's the very round kitty from the shelter. I can't reccommend going to the shelter. Very sad. Though the place is clean, and well run, it's disturbing to know that there are so many animals without homes. Not a job I could have. I've learned a lot though in the last 48 hours.

It takes someone like Jennifer at the shelter to contact someone like Elaine and Maine Coon Adoptions first off just to put a kitty, one of many, on the radar for saving. How the choices are made, who knows, but Queeny here is very affectionate, well beheaved, clean and of course very lovely to look at. There are probably hundreds of cats that don't get the chance, but she did. So after the email exchange, it takes someone who can stop what they are doing and go GET the cat. This time it was me, and it was surprisingly easy to pick her up. Saved. Just like that. True I'm not supposed to have more than 2 cats in the apartment, true I have 2 cats already, true I have tech week this week for a show, but still, a 20 minute round trip saved this kitty from being put down just a few hours later. So step one complete.

Now becuase she was in a shelter and only minimal tests and treatments were done, she has to be quarantined from my cats until she is deemed healthy. Easy too. I had extra litter box, food and stuff for her, and it was a great excuse to clean up the bedroom, and so there she goes. She is in there, had all she needs, a toy even to keep her amused.

So the next step is to take her to the vet to be checked for ear mites, fleas, tapeworm, other worms, FIV, she'll have all her shots, have a complete blood panel done to make sure all her organs are functioning and if she isn't spayed she'll ahve that done. She will be weighed and have her teeth checked and then if she is all in good shape at the end of that, we will micorchip her, and bath her ( a blog of it's own to be sure) and then she will be ready to go. That's a lot of time, money and attention on this kitty just to make sure she is totally healthy when some lucky person adopts her.

So more on the vet experience tomorrow...but this is certainly interesting, nice to know people care, nice to know all the work that goes into each cat to ensure thier safety!

The Things that Miff...

So I am conviced this will not just be a place for venting but here are a few of the things that miff me....they may be metaphors for my life...and then again...maybe it's just the stress building up....

1) Ipod not CHARGING. I need my life soundtrack. And it plug into my computer, but it won't actually CHARGE. Lame.

2) People who call my cell phone with work related business. Particularly when I hate my new phone...so...LAME. And did I mention lame.

3) High kill shelters. I think now that I have helped to raise $5000 for the kitties I have a false sense that that will actually solve all the problems. Got a request to post this girl, about 6 years old who'se 5 day "stray" hold (no collar, or microchip) expires tomorrow.

Put down if no one claims her as they don't have space at the shelter to even put her up for adoptions. GRRR. So I told MCA since she is described as VERY affectionate, has even fallen off her cage shelf making bread in the air, that I will foster her temporarily in order to save her as an emergency if no one else can step up in time. I may very well regret this. Sigh. But she's SO cute and has a sense of HUMOR. And has ALL four legs. Not that there is anything wrong with that.

She's just beautiful and I think she'd get along with the boys on a temporary basis. My limit is 3 though. At no time will i have more than 3. We do draw a line. I think. I hope.

Almost Friday. Looking for one more actor for Wednesdays' read through of Over the River and Through the Woods. I have the most ADORABLE CAST EVER. If you know of one more 65+ male who can pass for overbaring italian Grandparent..let me know...

Flag Day should be great. Edgey RTE type theatre, provacative and interesting. Topical and witty. Good performances and of course I love the space. i'll be working the bar...let me know when you are coming and I'll make sure I am on that night...

Cheers for now!

1 down, 2 to go....maybe 3..oh wait, 4....

Tons to catch up on. So after 1 attempt at a garage sale and making exactly $9, there was still to much of my stuff from storage that I couldn't justify schlepping about or making fit at the apartment or at work. So we tried again. Bigger signs, more craigslist posting, and later on Sunday so it was POST church. It was a HOT day, but I managed to make about $60 selling the weirdest stuff. Holloween decorations, my old mac classic II that doesn't even boot (I think someone was going to make some art out of it) an old 10-speed bike, which had to have been at least 15 years old, a VCR and a VHS player, candle holders, a small disco ball, a lamp, pillows, books, a polish language CD....who knew... very worthwhilse, gives me hope that if I REALLY wanted to clean out, I could. A neighbor of the woman whose house we used for the sale has a 10 year old redheaded daughter who loves drama, so I hooked her up not only with REALLY good books that I read around 11 or 12, but also gave them some info on theatre in the area that would be good for her. They then helped us take a bunch of stuff to GoodWill. Then my former roommate Justin helped me get the last couple truckloads to my apartment or to a dumpster. There's still a lot of stuff I could ebay, garage sale or craigslist, but at least there is no more storage unit. WE are on our way to a more clutter free environment... I think....

So the week leading up to the big fundriaser, the Cat's Pajamas was your typical stress heap! My computer got a NASTY virus the weekend I was planning to do all sorts of work for various projects, and the LCD on my phone when out on Monday. I could make calls and take calls but couldn't see who I was calling, couldn't access all my numbers and couldn't read texts. Long story short, the electronic warfare most certainly was caused by the electronic signals my stressed and sleep deprived body was sending out.

In the end, though in some regards I was way over my head, and certain things for the event were NOT up to my own person standard, folks came out of nowhereto save the day, the event went off wonderful and I realized I have a lot more stamina that I give myself credit for, and my instincts to hire/involve those that need very little direction ultimately saved the event in many ways. I am learning to delegate intelligently which is key. You don't have to delegate everything, or the big stuff, or the stuff you are good at, but thinking ahead of the kind of things that others can do well is a skill in and of itself. Well over $4,000 was made profit, from this event and I wouldn't be surprised if we get volunteers, fosters, repeat auction item donners, and much more benefits than we can really track as a direct result. I could not have done it without the help I had, but to the same token I do realize, this would NOT have happened with anyone currently in the organization but myself heading it up. I've done a good thing, and I feel great about it. This whole week, with me being gone so much, Ive felt so sad that I haven't been able to spend time with Paxton and Lincoln, and when I got home on Sat night after Midnight, having been gone since 6am, it was almost as if they KNEW I had been gone because I was helping kitties...they thanked me with snuggles, laughs and letting me sleep. I woke up to "the fox" one of Lincolns fetching toys right in front of my nose...sleep over...now play.

Two things that I thought about during the mad day of, were the amazing technology advances that both contributed to the chaos and the success of this event. Despite left and right technical difficulties, the USB Flash Drive was AMAZING. How cool are these things? Can not say how awesome it was to have this device around. Too cool. Along the same line, the microchip for cats(pets) is another invention that has to be among the most creative and useful. One of the cats that MCA adopted out last year escaped and was missing for 5 months, it was recently rescued off the street again and identified by the Mircochip. Pretty cool. On to theatre updates...

Flag Day is going well. I have such AMAZING stage managers (TWO!!!!) which is a blessing and our co-producer brings in amazing MEALS to our production meetings. Show is funny, dark, but funny, and I will be interested to see the audience turnout.

I had first rounds of auditions for Over the River and Through the Woods last night and though I was nervous I wouldn't have the over 65 crowd I needed, I think we are going to be fine! Some really fun, sweet, wonderful folks who are so excited to be retired and now getting to audition for things. Love it. Makes me happy that I have never had to put anything I love Art wise on HOLD. That I haven't done anything more practical or more lucrative and denied myself something/things that make me really happy. In some cases I've fallen BACK on the arts to get me through tough financial and emotional times. Pretty cool. Now to get back into a position to travel. Save and sell and plan....I have less than a year to make solid arrangements to get to Africa...

Raises this year were intended to be small...my was larger than expected, not as high as I would have liked, but with an additional opportunity with the incentive plan to make $12,000 before taxes as a lump sum it's certainly fair. All my professional goals this year hinge upon being able to cross train, delegate and document my job so that I can indeed not be missed for 5 weeks next fall for a proper vacation. Ona totally random note...

I finally experienced an attempted Craigslist scam. It amazed me. Was selling a $400 guitar and someone said they wanted it but was out of town. OKAY. If they can pay cashiers check or cash that's fine, you can pick it up next week. THEN there came an email about having a shipping company give ME a check for $1500 and taking the stuff, and I would deposti the check, keep $400 and then send him the difference. WTF? Or maybe not. The next guy that wanted it paid cash and send along FLicker photos of his 3 month old before picking it up. It amazes me though that people would try to scam others. There must be easier ways to make a dishonest buck and it would seem it would be so easy to track them down if you went through with it. Oh well. The guitar has a very good home, he promised to play it.

So there you go...a few of the things going on...still to come, pet photos, possible acting engagaments and a potential writing comission...

People on my to Shoot List

In reading up on the wildfires that are all over the place I spotted a line that disturbed me. Someone actually was evacuated and left her dog. She also left her goats and chickens, but her DOG? I'm sorry, if you can get your own ass in a car, your dog can come with you. And if you are given enough time to get out and you are assuming your entire house is going up, you have two choices with the Goats and chickens....1) find a place that will grab them in a trailer and evacuate them 2) WORST case scenario, wouldn't it be better to set them free, so they at least have a chance and not being burned alive. ... If at the end of the day you aren't going to have a house, and all your memories are burned to a crisp, I'd say the love and companionship of a Dog, or any animal would be some comfort.

I just don't GET it. You don't deserve a to have an animal in your life if you don't put their needs and feelings on the same level as a humans. Good grief. I put those people right against that wall along with those that think gay marriage is a bastardization of the definition. Don't even get me started.... and certainly not on a Monday...


In other news, I saw sexuality in its raw form work over the weekend. A black shiney new impala was parked in a green zone in front of Starbucks. This was I guess a 10 minute zone, with a meter. Meter wasn't fed. Young parking dude comes up and starts to write a ticket. Out from Starbucks bounces a young woman in barelythere hot pink shorts and a see through midrift white tank top. Stunned by the power of the damsel pleading no no no, but judging by his smile, more convinced by her..uh..skin...he did NOT give her a ticket....Quelle Suprise. What cracked me up though is that 2 minutes later her BOYFRIEND got into the drivers seat and she into the passenger. Her boyfriend was no dummy...if HE had gone out and asked to not get a ticket, I have no doubt that he would have failed to persuede the law, but clearly he is dating a woman who has used her body to her advantage before and he is okay with that. Good for him for pimping out his girl for good and not evil...

Bitch.

and

Dick.

=]

Jeepers Creepers

So the happy yellow jeep, could be a whole lot happier. I'll spare you the details, but my amazing 8 year old lovely who has been showing his age as of late, finally has had it with me. Since I moved downtown and now only drive him 10 miles a week on average, AND since he hasn't had his windows down or been on a road trip to speak of in months...he has thrown the ultimate tantrum. Fortunate that I don't require his services right now, but not coincidental that he needs $3000 of work including a new clutch being that I've not spent much on him in the last 5 years. Sigh. Poor thing. He's in love with my mountain Bike Poppy, and was so excited about the bike rack he had installed...and yet....since he clocked 100,000 miles in July last years, he's been...neglected. As was my ass after not riding Poppy for nearly 6 months. 6 miles from the dealership at 7am on Friday morning and I'm feeling it. In a good way though. I do miss the bike. Next time I'll make sure I put air in the tires....that should make it a bit easier to ride =]

I certainly am paying for not driving Jeep though. He's an in patient at the dealer this week while they order parts and I sort how exactly I will be paying for this, I may get him back as early as Thursday. And just as I start directing, work transitions and a fundriaser when I was so hoping that taking a day OFF of work to sort the car would magically make it to.

These are the days when I focus on this: VACATION SEPTEMBER 2009


It WILL happen, becuase it must, I'm over due. One day, one repair at a time. Looks like Ramen and Rice for the next 12 months.

Play With Your Food

This is not just a blog about the cats. There are other things. But I happened to take this video last night as there was a RACKET being made during "quiet time." Apparently Lincoln found the salad box to be a bit more than he could resist....

In other news, I'll be directing Northside's production of Over the River and Through the Woods back to back with Flag Day. Money won't turn up until November, but I may be in for a small raise at work anyway so eventually my car will get back into shape. He's looking very sad, and needs a serious clean and fix all around. Hasn't had a chance to have the windows down at ALL this summer due to Paxton's vet visit.

Cat's Pajamas is going well, we've had snag after snag, but I think it actually will be a great event. I'm taking a day off of work on Thursday just to be at home putting stamps and lables on the postcards, and accepting acution donation drop offs. I actully have really enjoyed the organization part of this project. My binder is all neat, and my forms are efficient. The challege is that everyone likes to do their own thing, and doesn't necessarily think someone else whose "job" it is to direct has thought of something. I've tried to explain I can handle 99% of it, and I only need some help on a few other tasks, but it's been a chore to get them to focus....I guess they just don't know me very well.

If you can make it to the event, get your tickets online quick as the capacity is only 150 and we are likely to sell out the week of the event if not before. You will see my handy work not only in the organization of the event, but in the writing, actual performance, and I've taught myself powerpoint so we can have a slide presentation on some great rescue cats. The Goal is $2000 raised but I wager we might actually raise twice that. Should be a great way to get some kitties adopted and some more foster families too.

So I had a cupon for the movie theatre, free pass, and so I saw Dark Knight. Now I ahted the Batman Begins movie. Was very disappointed for many reasons, and though not impressed with the trailer or a particular fan of Heath Ledger I went anyway. Aside from a silly dramatic "batman" voice, and the fact that the movies was so LONG, I was actually surprised by how much I liked it. And though it does pain me a tad to say it, Heath kind of steals the film. Really well thought out choices, some of the best dialouge of the movie and honestly very well done. A solid 3 out of 5 RRD's (Rutger, Rockwell, and D'onofrio) which I may actually have to update as Mr Friaser is coming out with TWO films this summer and he's really at the top of his game, never ceasing to amaze me and make me laugh.

Some interesting work related tidbits soon....now...back to your regularly scheduled program.

Music to my Ears

Love the voice, not a fan of Newton Faulkner's Hair. Point for the redhead thing, and yet....not a look I condone. Still, fanTASTIC songs, the radio play that Dream Catch me is getting is nice.

Also really enjoying The Spill Canvas.

Worked the bar (I had to think when the last time I stood up for 6 hours straight, and I'll have to think twice before I do it again, SORE) at the Theatre on San Pedro Square. The band playing was Shanna Gilfix and the Back Lit Boys. They did some great covers as well as originals. Folky rock, with some blues, harmonica, Cello, Djembe, and mandolin slapped in for good measure. Nice people, and nice to see the space filled to the brim. We ran out of beer, TWICE, and good thing Longs is near by and open late. Although this is the song that kind of got the viral thing going, it's actually in my opinion not the best that they do, nor is the quality good enough to really show off her vocal talent.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axV8DQ1nWNk&feature=related

But a really fun group of people (the band) and always enojoy new music.....

Back to the grind....

What the hell is a Brazillian Cherry?

To my knowledge they do not grow Apples in the Artic. And I do not know what a Brazillian Cherry is. Tango doesn't have a scent that one would rally WANT to sport, and I don't want to drink my deoderant so why would you call it Vanilla Chai... All this to say the marketing of the new line of Secret deoderant certainly is eye catching if not egnimatic. When it comes down to it, it's not really any different than lotion or perfume I suppose.. so why shouldn't it be somewhat mysterious. I woud have loved to be in the focus group for this. I think the kicker though, is the fact that they think the scent you choose is like some karmic portal, that you journey to your perfect scent...check out the interactive website.... I would have loved to see the salary of the person that came up with this shit. Get me THAT job....

http://www.secret-deodorant.com/ScentExpressionsProducts.do?productLineName=ScentExpressions

The Fall

Saw a film that was absolutely stunning on so many levels and sadly I think has had such under marketing many will miss this on the big screen which is a tragedy. Although I will have to buy this film and watch all the shots over and over for the amazing detail an nuance, the locations and images were just brilliant on the big screen. Vibrant Colors, FANTASTIC shots, so many WOW outloud moments. The acting was the best I have seen in ages. The costuming was phenomenal. This film does what film can do and should do, rousing every bit of imagination from script to soundtrack. If you have a chance to see it. Go.

THE FALL:

http://www.thefallthemovie.com/


http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0460791/

Bad dog, I mean..cat, I mean...

So, if you turn up the volume on this (and sorry for my loud, near camera mic voice) you will be able to hear Lincoln growl at me when I try to throw his toy before he is ready. It's not the best video, but it does show his impressive dexterity in his right paw when he flicks the toy from the floor to his mouth. He can throw toys around for days at a time. Yesterday I sat and played with him with a string for over an hour. He is tireless when it comes to playing. Paxton is going through an impatient phase with him...mostly just trys to stay out of reach so he can rest.

Terrible Two's?

So Lincoln, who turned arbitrarily 1 year old last week has apparently hit the cat terrible twos. Etiher that or he is part black lab, which I already think to be the case. My goal is to catch him playing his daily game of fetch (though often times it's JUST as I'm going to sleep) and his hilarious growl when he doesn't want me to throw it again, but rather just let him kill it fora bit. But this is the good and amusing part of Lincoln. He has presented me with some challenges as of late. And presented Paxton with some as well.

The desk has been an area of refuge for Paxton when he is done being attacked by Lincoln. It has also been the cat proofing staging area. Paxton like paper, but is mostly uninterested in cables, strings, and other human items. So it's safe to put things out of Lincolns reach up there.

Until last week when Little Cat discovered he was big enough and smart enough to get up there. Judging by some scrath marks (some hold on to dear life, this is slippery marks) I wager he missed a few times, but has now managed to master the climb and does so with pride. Each time he scales the mighty mountain he then proceeds to chew, scatter and swat at anything that moves (or doesn't move, I don't think it really matters). So I find cabinets, drawers and other places up higher and better hidden for such things like...gift ribbon. And why do I find other places. Because bless his heart, as sensitive and intelligent as he is, he things everything is food. and Gift ribbon, does not make good food. Particuarly 12 inches of it when a little cat eats it in one piece when I'm not looking, miraculously doesn't kill himself choking on it, and then refuses to digest it. Yes, I know now I could definately have kids, as I will probably do nothing so gross or horrifying as retrieve a foot of ribbon from a three legged cats rear. He's a handful to be sure.

Lincoln's other favorite game is jump on things like blankets, and act like you can't see him. He gives me very naughty looks when I look at him all flat and sly like and say "I see you". It's as if I am breaking the rules. He grow bigger and more mischievous but keeps Paxton well exercised and me laughing. hopefully I will succed in my video attempt later and be able to post.

Esay Being Green

Love this article, mostly becuase I loved Bill Nye, but also, I think this is what it's going to take in some circles to make beign responsible and green realistic....if it's a trend, or it's sexy....the masses will follow...sad byt true, and who says being responsible can't be fun!



http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080710/ap_en_ot/celebrity_green_off

Down and Dirty....

Alright,

Oh the life of Susannah, it's just never boring. Here are the highlights...

TV: As you may know, I don't pay for TV. Rather I use blockbuster and Netflix to supply myself with late night, shut your brain down, entertainment. DVD is the best thing that has happened to the impatient TV watcher though. I can watch an entire season of a show I missed, I don't have to wait, or remember what happened last week, or season, and it has no commercials. I grab me a beer or a glass of pinot noir, and I multitask (and rewind if I miss something) or totally curl up and immerse. I'm discovering that due to my over active childhood with theatre, swimming, school, family, jobs etc....I missed some great TV. Also, since I've never had cable for more than about a year, some of the cable shows are super. Sadly some of the most brilliant shows have just one season or were cancelled part way through, for one who like closure...it's a sad sad thing to grow attached and then have your TV Charactes break up with you. So far my favorite shows, though least favorite break ups have been:

Dead Like Me, Wonderland, Firefly, Deadwood(but only the first season, it got boring halfway through season 2), Rome (SO cheap and tawdry, but watch it with the feature that tells you what is historically acurate and what is total BS...makes it less of a guilty pleasure and more of a "educational process, " The Tudors (trashy, but better than watching Rock of Love, rights? Corsets make it so.) Dawson's Creek, (seriously, really well written), Bones and Supernatural.

On the last. Now you know I love me some horror. Flashback to my Friday the 13th themed birthday party in highschool where I found all of my friends in the kitchen talking to my parents while I watch April Fool's Day, and Nightmare on Elm Street. And my halloween parties are famous. But what I think is so great about this show, and separates it from say Medium and Ghost Whisperer (decent shows in their own right) is the attention to creating a niche. The car, the classic rock music, the sibling rivalry, the fact the pilot starts off a block from my parents home (Stanford, CA) and the great combination of urban legend and intelligent set up so you can believe and buy into some of the more difficult, unsubstantiated bits. It's just super. I may have to get TV so I can watch the current Season 3, as I just don't know if I can wait for it to come out on DVD. The boys are not hard to look at, and I'm glad for the most part (with a couple of exceptions, minor mistakes quickly remedied) they keep romance out of it. Boys in an Impala kicking demon ass across america to Iron Maiden. THAT'S what this show is and I'm loving it. Which I think explains partially a really MESSED up dream I had the other night...

In a nut shell I was cominbing life stress and some things that are going on with work, life, and finances with some SN episodes. in my dream not only did my dad stab me in the back (weird) and I died bleeding to death slowly, but not in pain, and all the while trying to remember to write down my various passwords so people could be notifed of my death and bills could get paid, but I then was brought back to life just in time t try to get into a college building to ask a professor for a donation for the Cat rescue auction, and then promptly drove Dean's cool Impala (from the show) into the pacific unintentionally. I was very embarrassed, sadly the car sank despite me thinking in the dream I could hold on to it with my feet and drag it up back to shore. Bizarre.

Reading: Finished Garth Stein's The Art of Racing in the Rain (written from the perspective of a 12 year old lab mix dog) which was brilliant but a total tear jerker, and you know coming from a tough chick like me, that's huge. Liked it so much I though I would read another book by him. How Evan Broke his head adn Other Secrets. Another great book. Currently reading a short book called Grayson about a baby whale that follows this girl swimming about in ocean until it can find it's mom. Gotta love animals. Speaking of animals...

Cat Rescue: The invitiation for the August 16th fundraiser I am organizing for Maine Coon Adoptions came today, and they look great. Dexter did a super design job and we got a printer to DONATE 1,000 color, double sided postcards. Lots to do still, got to finish the script, but it should be a lot of fun and should raise at least $2500 for homeless kitties.

Other Theatre: Agreed to Direct Flag Day, a DARK comedy by Lee Blessing, produced by Second Wind, playing Sept 5-25 in San Jose. Rehaersals are in San Francisco, but I have a carpool ride, so my poor little not so happy at the moment yellow jeep ( No gas and the engine light is on) can rest and I can replenish funds and get him taken care of properly. I'm itching for a road trip like you wouldn't believe. And so is Jeep. Just... have to find the time. I'm thinking visiting my sister and best friend up in Washington and then maybe ifI'm luck just spending a few days in Vancouver. Part of me thinks that's pushing it. While seeing bears and Orcas in the wild would be a great way to recoop, saving up for 6 weeks in Africa next September/October I think will benefit me better in the long run. Then again, I might be a flight risk and one day just decide to take off for South America for a few weeks. Who knows. Now that I have Lincoln and Paxton, 3 legged wonder cats, I find it harder to leave them out of love and amusement even when I have plenty of people who would take over the apartment and look after them at a moments notice. They do put a cramp in the old spontaneous Susannah. Agian, we will see.

New cell phone law is in effect. I still see idiots merging onto the free way with their phones to their ears. Although I agree the vast majority of folks can't drive while talking on the phone, I also believe the vast majority of people can't actually drive, period. They can't drive while smoking, talking, listening to music, appying makeup, or if there is anyone else on the road. But what are you going to do? I'm against a lot of restrictive laws, but this is one freedom I think folks can sacrafice for the common good. the cell phone companies are totally in cahoots though with the law, now they sell more merchandise....ah capatilism.

Anyway....more soon....

The Plan to Awesome...14 months, ready....go

Lots to come as I try once again to write more often, stay in touch, and get the ball rolling on some really important projects.... Change is in the air...

Stay tuned....