House of Blues-Gospel Brunch

I enjoyed a wonderful Sunday brunch today. I met up with a dear friend that I only get to see once or twice a year. We always joke that no matter how long it's been, we can always pick up right were we left off, as if we see each other every day. That's a good friendship.

Every time we get together we try and make it a special day by doing something different. This time, I suggested we check out the Gospel Brunch at the House of Blues on Sunset Boulevard. I can tell you it's well worth the ticket price.  You get an abundance of great food and fabulous music.

The group featured today was an all female gospel group called, "Clara Ward". Those six ladies were amazing! They all had great voices and gave a show-stopping performance for each song.  One of the best parts of the show was the way they involved the audience. Many times we were all on our feet, singing and swaying along with the group.

There was also a time when they brought several audience members on stage to share a quick mention of what they were thankful for.  It made for an intimate and heartfelt moment hearing from people who shared their gratitude for being cancer free and no longer homeless. The audience bonded as we cheered for each of the inspiring people on stage.

Surprisingly, my friend was one of the people picked to go up on stage. She gave a sweet speech about being thankful for her husband, her children and for our friendship. She also added she was thankful that I suggested we attend a wonderful Gospel Brunch. LOL.

At times, it felt like we were all in church. Listening to great gospel music, singing, giving praise, and sharing thanks. My joy moment today was enjoying a great get-together with a dear friend.  It was a joyous day for us both.

Stay tuned :-)

The Temple Grandin Story

Rainy day in Southern California today. For a change the weathermen didn't lie, LOL.  At least it was Saturday and I could do what people always say they'd like to do on a rainy day... get under the covers and watch TV.   The longer it stormed, the longer I could pretend I wasn't being completely lazy.

I ended up catching a great movie on HBO, The Temple Grandin story.  The true story of a woman who was born with Autism yet was also incredibly brilliant.  When Temple was just four years old, the doctors told her mother that her daughter had a mental illness and recommended she commit her to an institution.  Her mother declined and refused to give up on her. Instead, she decided to get Temple all the resources she could and pushed her to go to school, which later helped reveal her amazing gifts.  Incredibly, with a condition that can be extremely limiting, Temple acquired a Masters Degree, a Doctorate and made incredible innovations in the area of animal science. 

Her story is amazing and inspirational. Claire Danes, the actress who plays Temple, does a great job of illustrating her story and difficult journey.  Julia Ormand, the woman who played her mother, gives a passionate portrayal of a mother who will do everything to make sure her daughter is not treated less than. 

It's a wonderful story of a mother's love and a young girl's battle against the odds.  One of the things that gave Temple strength was advice from a mentor that she find the courage to walk through each door because she never know what opportunities might be on the other side.  Watching her story and seeing how she found the courage to walk through doors, during many trying circumstances was moving.

Her story inspired me.  With all that she had to overcome, many would have given up, she never did. Watching her story, made me realize I should never even let the thought cross my mind.   If I ever slip up, I will now think of a great woman named Temple.

Great story, great message. Not bad for a rainy day!

Stay tuned. :-)

Friday Fun

Lately, it seems as though my lunch hour has become a mini retreat for me.  The last few days I've done everything but eat during my break-time.

Today a friend met me at work and we indulged in a manicure and pedicure at a nearby spa.  What a nice way to enjoy a Friday afternoon!  Non-stop chatter with a gal pal, a relaxing foot massage and cute, colorful hands and toosties to show off.

Ah, Girl time!   Gotta love it.

Happy Friday!

Stay tuned :-)

Bright Sunshiny Day

During lunch time today, I went outside, found a great place to sit in the sun and called up one of my close friends who lives out of town.  We enjoyed a nice, long chat with each other.  Our conversation was filled with lots of boisterous laughter, as we shared funny happenings and events in our lives.

We live three thousand miles apart.  She was inside watching the snowfall and I was outside sitting in the L.A. sun. But during our conversation, it felt like my high school buddy and I were teenage girls again, sitting side by side.

Joy for me today was soaking up the sun and enjoying great conversation with an old friend. Making it a bright, sunshiny day.  I know, I'm such a cornball.  LOL.

Stay tuned :-)

Gospel Hour

I've mentioned my long commute to work on this blog a few times. I drive almost 45 miles one way, and at times it can take an hour and a half to reach my destination.

It can be pretty tiring but I don't like to complain because I'm so thankful to be employed again. Barring a few road rage moments, I try to suck it up and deal because I know I'm very blessed to have a job.

During the rainy, drive home tonight I wanted to remember that and be thankful.  I listened to inspiring and uplifting gospel music during my drive.  I even sang along, loudly at times, enthralled in the lyrics and the messages. To my surprise, I found myself humming and singing the entire ride, and not once did I look at the clock or become anxious over the traffic jams.

My gospel hour enriched me spiritually and lifted me up. The songs helped me to get centered again and  remember what's really important.  They reminded me of all that I have to thankful for.

I was riding high.  A spiritual, natural high.  Good stuff.

Stay tuned :-)

Idol Time

Joy moment began when I arrived home after a long day, quickly changed into my PJ's, got into bed and started watching American Idol. It's the little things, people.

It was girl's night, as 12 young ladies sang their heart out for a chance to move a little closer to stardom. This year, AI has an eclectic group of talented women with amazing voices. I enjoyed listening to the array of unique styles and performances.

One of my favorite parts of the show is watching the background packages on the young hopefuls.   I'm a sucker for a touching story. Learning what they've each been through and how much this experience means to them will have you rooting for every one of them.

My joy tonight was watching my guilty pleasure and cheering on my favorites in the lineup... all from the comfort of my soft and warm bed.

Choice seating, indeed!

Stay tuned :-)

Mid-Day Massage!

It was a beautiful day today so I decided to go for a walk during my lunch hour. Something I rarely do.  I ended up stopping by a place that offered reflexology services and decided to treat myself to a 30 minute neck and back massage.  What a treat it was!  My masseuse, Hu, was amazing and had the hands of a god.  

It was very different from other massages I've had. I didn't have to change out my clothes and it wasn't done on a long massage table.   I actually just sat in a backless chair and Hu went to work.  It was the best thing that's happened during lunch, since the time our office received an afternoon delivery of cupcakes.  

Who knew that a good massage could change your whole attitude. Going in, I had a case of the Monday blues, which is why I decided to go out and get some fresh air.  At the end of the massage, I had some pep in my step and glide in my stride.  I walked back to work with a smile on my face and remained relaxed the rest of the afternoon. My mid-day massage was Mmmm, Mmmm good.  They can keep the cupcakes. LOL.

Stay Tuned :-)

Coming up...

My joy journey continues as we move into a new month. So far, so good. I've definitely been socializing more, have taken in several new events and have noticed my mood has been more upbeat.  I think I might be on to something, My dear Watson.

I just finished setting up a few after work events for this week. It looks like it will be a busy one.

I'm attending a play with one buddy, going to a birthday celebration for another one and checking out a gospel brunch with another friend on the weekend.  Not to mention a few work-out classes and a voice-over session are scheduled for this week, as well.  Whew, just writing it all down has tired me out. 

I don't usually have this many events during the week, but I'm looking forward to getting together with friends I haven't seen in a long time and enjoying fun activities with them.

I will definitely pace myself, because passing out during my "hunt for happy" does nothing for the cause. LOL.

Just kidding!  I'm excited and ready for what's ahead.

Stay tuned. :-)

Note-worthy Day

I received a late Valentine's Day card today from a good friend.

Inside, my friend wrote the nicest note encouraging me to make my writing dreams a reality. It's something we've discussed in the past and he was sending me a friendly (and humorous) note to remind me.

It was so thoughtful and sweet.   There is nothing like a good friend.   Friends who do thoughtful things to let you know they're thinking of you. Friends who are encouraging and supportive.  Friends who are there for you just because they care.

The note made my day and made me take extra notice of our great friendship.

I sent him an email letting him know how much I appreciated his note and him.  Yes, we had a letter love-fest.  I'd say it was a pretty note-worthy day.

Stay tuned :-)

Funny Man

Very stressful day at work, then a crazy, long drive home... 2 hours!

By the time I arrived home I was tired and a little teed-off.

I turned on the TV to unwind and five minutes later I was laughing my head off.   Two words... a name actually, Lavelle  Crawford.   Extremely funny comedian.   He was just what I needed.

I forgot about all the stress from my crazy Friday.  Gone was my irritation over my excruciatingly slow drive home.  Lavelle's life observations were unique, over the top and hilarious.  I just happened to catch him.   Glad I did.

Lavelle made it to second place on the TV show, Last Comic Standing but he's number one in my book!

Now, I'm ready for the weekend.  Thanks, funny man.

Stay tuned :-)

Flattered

I was complimented today when an employee asked to borrow a work presentation template I set up.  I thought she would use it as a guide but she just about copied it.  I thought that was a bit odd, especially since we were going into the same meeting.  Now, my original design wouldn't appear so original, anymore.

Before I started to get miffed and second guess sharing my work, I stepped back and realized the action was more complimentary than anything else.  She did say it looked great, and I guess it was so good she wanted hers to look that way, too.   Plus, it was just the set-up that would be the same, our ideas would be different.

When I looked at it that way, as a compliment, the way it was probably intended, it made me feel good. Especially, since she'd been given another model to follow but preferred mine.

Later, another co-worker came across my layout and also remarked favorably about it and thought about doing hers the same way.

They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery... and who doesn't like to be flattered?  Insert, batting eyelashes here... LOL.

Stay tuned. :-)

A Good Day

Pretty good day today. Had a busy and productive day at work.  Went out to lunch with co-workers and shared some laughs.  After work, I pushed myself and made it to the gym... again. I took another killer class and lived.

On the way home, I found a radio station jamming great oldies that helped excel the long ride.  Later, I happened to catch a couple of uplifting and inspiring human interest stories on television.

Now, I'm wrapping up the night with some of my fav herbal tea.

It was a good day.  Happy. Grateful.

Stay tuned. :-)

Cardio Madness

I visited the gym again.  My third time in as many weeks.  The other two times weren't so hot.   This time I decided to take a kickboxing cardio class instead of fooling around with the "treadmill devil".

The instructor was a gray haired, older guy, at least 50 or 60. So, I thought, I can do this.  I should have known something was awry, when I noticed there wasn't anyone near his age in the class. This guy was no senior citizen... he was a madman.

This was my first time taking a class in YEARS!  I knew it would be difficult but I started to think there was a good chance I wouldn't make it out alive. This old guy was intense!  His reps were almost sadistic.  I'm not kidding, there were people in the room in amazing shape who were breathing hard and looked like they would pass out.  I could hear my inner critic laughing, "You don't stand a chance". Ten minutes into the class, a petite girl next to me, grabbed her bag and ran out the door.  I would have followed her but I caught a cramp.

I was convinced I wouldn't finish... but... I did!  I admit, I did take a couple of breaks here and there and a few times, I didn't perform his million set of reps, but I did complete the majority of the routine. I was so proud of myself!  "I am a machine!"  I wanted to scream.  An old,  outdated and rusty machine... but a machine, nonetheless!

This time, after my gym workout I felt exhilarated and proud.  I have to admit the instructor was actually very good. Throughout the class, he checked on everyone and was very encouraging.  I just didn't want to acknowledge that while I struggled to get oxygen into my lungs and my hair out of my mouth.

But he was great and gave the class an amazing workout. I felt lighter when I left. It could've been because I had sweat all the fluid out of my body, but who cares, I felt lighter!

That was my joy moment today.

I'll be back.  Bring it on, cardio dude!

Stay tuned :-)

Stay Positive!

Monday.  Although it was a holiday today, my office was open. I decided to look on the bright side and enjoy the perks...

First perk, there was no morning rush hour traffic. I was able to enjoy the drive and the hot, sunny weather on my way to work.  Another perk, the office garage had ample parking, so I had my pick of choice spaces.

Those may seem like trivial things but those little conveniences helped me maintain a positive attitude.

Surprise perk... The air conditioning wasn't turned on in our office building because of the holiday.  It got so hot in the office, the boss decided to let everyone out early.

Oh, the power of positive thinking!  LOL.

Stay positive!

... And Stay tuned.  :-)

Appreciation

It was a pretty subdued Sunday.  I spent a couple of hours working from home, then spent the rest of the day taking care of various things.

There was a moment today when a sense of peace came over me.   It's not that everything in my world is perfect but I was appreciative of the fact that it was an uneventful day, in a good way. I've certainly had days like this before but always managed to find something to stress about. Lately, I've been doing that a little less.

I think my joy journey is starting to have an affect on me.  I've had a few of these moments where I've become reflective on the new things I've experienced and excited about the stuff I have planned.  Then there are the wonderful moments like today, when I am content and appreciative of my life, as is.

Finding the joy in each day is becoming a good habit and is definitely affecting my outlook, mood and spirit.

Joy for me today was my moment of contentment and peace.

Moment by moment.  Taking it one day at a time.  The journey continues.

Stay tuned. :-)

"Unforgettable" Night

A friend and I went to see Natalie Cole in concert tonight. The night didn't start off too well.

On our way to the concert, we got caught in a huge traffic pile up. Then we got lost trying to find an alternate route. Then we got into argument.  By the time we arrived at the concert, over 45 minutes late, we were both pretty irritated. By this point, I thought the night was shot.

After another wait in the concert hall for a song break, we were finally led to our seats.  We sat down and upon seeing Ms. Cole and hearing her melodic voice singing a crowd fav, our irritation was immediately replaced by smiles.

"Unforgettable", This Will Be", and countless other classics... had us swaying, clapping and singing along with everyone in the intimate theater.  The 60-year-old songstress still had an amazing voice and looked stunning... even with her arm in a sling!

Oh, the power of great music... it soothes the savage beast... and the sulky, late patron.

It turned out to be a great night, thanks to an unforgettable lady.     Hat's off to Ms. Cole, a class act.

Stay Tuned :-)

It's The Thought That Counts

I had a little surprise waiting for me when I arrived home tonight.  My mother sent me a small package. It was unexpected.  I opened it to find thank you gifts from her and my grandmother for their stay with me over the holidays.

It was thoughtful and sweet.  I didn't expect anything from them, their two-week stay with me was truly a gift, in itself.

The cute trinkets and beautiful card were a nice treat.  But it was the gesture itself that meant the most to me. The gesture reiterating that they enjoyed their trip and wanted to show their appreciation.

That made me feel good and it made my night.   It really is the thought that counts. Big time! 

Stay tuned. :-)

Anticipation

I had my second voice over class today.  It was pretty intense.  My teacher is hard core and no nonsense.  I love it.

She threw a lot at me today.  It's intimidating but I'm looking forward to learning more and getting better.

It's funny, I get all giddy when I get to the studio.  Coming from a television production background, you would assume this type of environment would be old hat to me. But this is completely different territory, I'm not behind the scenes.  I'm the subject now, doing something completely new, learning a different area of the biz. There's something both nerve racking and exhilarating about the whole thing.

Joy for me today was walking through the studio door, stepping in front of the microphone, experiencing  nerves and anticipation as I started my lesson.

Testing... Testing...   LOL.

Stay tuned.  :-)

Shame, Pain, and Joy

I experienced all three of these emotions in the course of just one hour. I went to the gym.

As I walked through the fluorescent sweatshop, I passed an array of perfectly sculpted, glistening work-out gods. I kid you not, I was the only one there, dry and with a bad BMI.  I'm not grossly overweight but next to the skeletons, I looked like a sumo wrestler.  "Where is the fat section?" I almost asked, because I was obviously among the "after picture" crowd. Hence, the shame.

I got on the treadmill and wondered what masochist thought up this machine. When do we ever walk or run at a 25 inch incline? Correction, when do I every walk or run at a 25 inch incline? One guy next to me had the incline so high I thought he'd tip over.  I was glad when he left, but my glee was short lived when I realized I was the only one not running in a long row of treadmills.  My sweaty hand gripped the handle bar and held on for dear life, as I reluctantly increased the treadmill speed. It's not a race you say? Tell that to the girl next to me who kept sneaking peeks at my pace number.  I increased the speed again.  Bring on the pain.

After enduring 45 minutes of self-induced torture, I slowly got off the "treadmill devil". Did I feel victorious and renewed because I completed a solid workout?  No. Was I tired and hungry? Yes.

So where does the joy come in?  When I realized I could still walk out of the gym without assistance. When I got home and found the Ben Gay in the medicine cabinet. When I resisted the incredible urge to burn my gym membership card and the workout clothes I was wearing.

Yes, I will live another day and I will return to the gym.

Tiny, subdued, yet satisfying joy.

Stay tuned. :-)

Balance

Better day at work.  It's been stressful but it was a little calmer today.  The difference?  A little interaction with co-workers.

The day went quickly, as I got a lot of work done and some things accomplished.  I even shared a few laughs with my co-workers, for the first time.

I work hard and it can get crazy at times, but I enjoy what I do and always want to do an amazing job.  Yet, it's nice when you can break up the day with some fun banter with your work peeps. 

Balance does a a body good... and may even up your productivity.  Who knew? 

Stay tuned. :-)

Inspiration

Tonight, I got a pep talk.  Very unexpected.  Not requested. Out of the blue.

I just finished watching a movie with my dear friend.  I  was reading the credits, and was surprised to see that the lead actor in the film also penned the script. He wasn't a big name actor, but he did have a role in a sitcom.  I shared this with my friend and he flatly said, "you could do that".

I tossed him a weak grin and continued watching TV.  Noticing, he said it again, "you could".  "You could create your own show or write a movie if you wanted".   At this point, I give him a bewildered look, trying to figure out where this is coming from, as this is a person who rarely speaks and is king of the one word answer.

He goes on and on about all the things I've done in the past, my skills, etc. I'm staring at him, half listening, mostly wondering if he's had too much caffeine or if I'm being punked.

He then said, "I believe in you and I don't even know all the things that you can do.  You should believe in yourself".  That one stuck... and nudged me out of my complacency.

I don't know what prompted him to tell me that.  He told me he didn't know either, but maybe it was something I needed to hear. "Perhaps God was trying to tell you something", he said.  I think he's right.  I  do believe God tries to tell us things and that He works in mysterious ways.

I hear you.  I'm going to get on it!

God bless the messenger.

Stay tuned. :-)

Superbowl Sunday

Superbowl Sunday!  For me that meant... Movie Marathon! LOL.

I watched an old Hitchcock movie, an independent film, and some shows taped on the DVR. Later on, I cheated and watched some of the popular commercials on the web.  Aren't they really the best part, anyway?  Okay, stop screaming.

At least, this year I knew who the competing teams were prior to the big day.  That was me trying to get involved in the Superbowl madness.... or me trying not to seem so oblivious. Take your pick.

Heard it was a good game.  Go Colts!  Kidding!  Yay Saints!   Maybe next time I'll watch.  Again... Kidding.  LOL.

And now back to my regular scheduled programming.

Stay tuned! :-)

Retail Therapy Goes Awry

Yay, Saturday! I decided to take in a little retail therapy today.  It's been awhile since I went shopping, so I decided to treat myself to a few outfits. I probably would've enjoyed the experience more if I wasn't 4000 pounds!

Yes, I'm exaggerating, but that's how I felt. The extra poundage I put on last year showed up, big time, in those unforgiving, dressing room mirrors.  Trying on clothes was like a bad contortionist act... and was just as painful. Is it me or is the clothing made smaller these days?  I know, I know, it's me!  Sigh!  I need to put down the fork and pick up some exercise classes.

Needless to say, trying on outfits wasn't much fun. Neither was the three-hour hunt for an item that didn't look like it should've been a bedspread or a couch cover.

My joy moment came when I was done shopping. I almost ran to the car, I was so happy it was over. I was also pleased that I managed to find a few things that actually fit.  Even happier when I returned home and could finally rest my very tired feet.  When I realized I didn't have anything else pressing to do and could just relax... I was elated!  Those moments are few and far between and I was appreciative.

Couch time trumps retail therapy... at least for today!   I'll take it.

Stay tuned. :-)

Action!

Tonight I attended "Wordplay",  a play where the performers share unique stories from their lives while a DJ adds songs and sound effects throughout their act.  It was different and fun.

Hearing the true stories of the performer's lives intertwined with humor, heart, sarcasm and song, was both entertaining and engaging.

I invited my friend, a former comedian, to come along.  Sometime during the show, she leaned over and told me she was glad that I suggested this event.  I smiled to myself because I had a feeling she would enjoy it. We both had a good time and afterwards, shared reviews of the show and ways we would have done it.  No surprise, of course, from two producer gals. LOL.

My "joy moment" tonight was hanging out with a friend, sharing some laughs and experiencing something new.  I'd say that's a pretty good Friday night.

Stay tuned. :-)

Mic Check!

Today I took my first ever voice over class.  It was so much fun!  And...  I'm getting one on one instructions from one of the veteran performers in the biz.

She's a no nonsense teacher and a pro.  I'm happy to have found her.  It was also nice to hear her say my voice was unique and could do well in animation.

After she downloaded me with a lot of introductory information, I had a chance to go into the booth for the first time and do a very quick voice over. It was funny hearing my own voice booming in my ears as she played my tracks back to me.  I was pretty suprised at how natural some of it was coming to me. I seemed to be implementing her directions very quickly.

It was truly the highlight of my day! First, because I was experiencing something that I've always wanted to try. Second, I knew I'd researched and found a great teacher who would help me build skills in this arena. Lastly, I could tell this would be loads of fun and possibly (waaaay down the line, of course) financially rewarding.  For right now, I just want to learn all I can and enjoy the process.

I must rest now... and nurture my instrument!  LOL!  

Stay tuned! :-)

Ha!

Comedy. One of the best stress relievers, ever!  It's amazing how a really good joke or funny story can lift your spirits or turn your mood around.

A funny show on television had me laughing out loud tonight... repeatedly!    All the crazy stress from the day was released and I was left feeling better and renewed. It was definitely my joy moment for today.

Added bonus... it was free and Au Natural.  End result, calm and peace. Laughter really is the best medicine.  No kidding!  LOL.

Stay tuned.  :-)

In This Moment...

My joy moments today were simple and sweet. Joy for me was driving home in relatively light traffic, enjoying a pretty good dinner and watching my fav Tuesday shows on the Telly.

Later, I purchased tickets to a play for a friend and myself  for Friday night.  I'm looking forward to it because it combines three things I enjoy, original writings, comedy and music. I think my friend, a former comedian and fellow producer, will enjoy it, too.

Now, I plan to wrap up the evening with a cup of my favorite chamomile tea before calling it a night... by midnight... a little earlier for a change.

Happy, Happy.  Joy, Joy.  That's me.  Right now.  In this moment... And grateful.


Stay tuned :-)

Wake Up Call

Out of the blue, I got a call from my mother telling me how talented I am.  You're probably thinking that's what mother's do. But this call was a little different.

She told me she was watching a professional woman being honored for her work on an awards program and thought of me.  She said, although I am doing fairly well, I have not reached my full potential.  She then said I had so much talent that was not being fulfilled.  Say what?!  She's never said that to me before... she's always been a proud and boastful mama.  Proud of my somewhat steady career in television production and that someone thought a few my scribbled stories were good enough to be published.

But what I found most surprising about what she said is that I'd been feeling the exact same way, lately. That I'm supposed to be doing more. That I'm capable of much more. That I'm not living my life's full purpose. There are many things I've put off, never completed or avoided altogether.  The time is now. I have felt this way for awhile but just haven't acted on it.  She said a lot more during that conversation and every bit of it was what I've been feeling or thinking... but never told anyone.

I needed that wake up call. I needed to hear it out loud and not just as a nagging whisper in my private thoughts.  I have to stop procrastinating and follow through on my dreams and goals.  I need to work on the things that will hopefully, take me to the next level and and allow me to live the life that I dream about.

I think this is part of the journey that I'm on with this blog.  We'll see.

Stay tuned :-)