Pure, Unadulterated Joy

@BBC on Bush's Visit to England in 2003, Calendar Girls, @NYTimes on David Mamet's "The Secret Knowledge: On the Dismantling of American Culture," Ringo and @SEIU

By Joy A. Kennelly

May I say how much I love the BBC reporting? It's always fair, balanced, factual, and where you can simply learn the news, rather than political posturing on either side of the parties as is so often the case here in America.

Leave it to the Brits to be dry and to the point! LOL

I love the British, can you tell?:) In fact, I'm watching Calendar Girls again starring Helen Mirren (one of my favorite actresses) and Julie Walters, a darling talented actress I was able to meet at some DGA function years past. 

  "A very British story, with a very British heart, CALENDAR GIRLS is based on an uplifting and very inspiring true story that is quirky, poignant and hilarious." Remember that film? I'm watching it again because I love the story and acting so much.

Here's the original women's site to allow you to know the actual backstory of this true story: http://www.seecalendargirls.com/ Apparently, you can still see the play performed by much younger fully nude women now in England.

Leave it to the British!:) 

Back to my original point about the BBC and Bush. After I posted that article about Obama's visit to England I discovered the BBC had written a very interesting comparison between the two President's visits which I would like to share with you for your reading pleasure in the effort to be balanced because I will always admit when I'm wrong.

Unlike some politicians we know...:)

Obama v Bush: A tale of two state visits

By Vanessa Barford BBC News

 "Barack Obama has completed his three-day state visit to the UK. But how did it compare with the last state visit by a US president, when George Bush came to the country eight years ago in 2003?"

You must read the full comparison here because it's great: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-13508572

The journalist who wrote this review on Mamet's book apparently doesn't live in Los Angeles, or only reports his opinion, rather than facts:

"Much of 'The Secret Knowledge' serves as an intellectual riposte to the words and deeds of militant leftists who are dead, repentant, or irrelevant. And while Mamet justly indicts the tri-pronged scourge of political radicalism, economic socialism, and ideological totalitarianism, he identifies this phenomenon not with the regimes of Venezuela, Iran, Libya, or even North Korea, but with mainstream American liberals."

Now obviously, this journalist wasn't aware of this recent communist activity here in our very own Downtown Los Angeles, or he wouldn't have written what he wrote. If he is clueless, perhaps others might not be aware either.

If you can prove this is wrong, please do, but unfortunately, I believe this is accurate. I didn't write it, merely reposting it here for your reading (dis)pleasure courtesy of someone who goes by the name Ringo...

 

"While we slept  ....... Pictures taken downtown Los Angeles on May Day co sponsored by the SEIU and various Communist groups

Look at the pictures below…were they taken in Cuba? Venezuela? Bolivia? Ecuador, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Argentina, maybe Puerto Rico?

Nope…Los Angeles, USA just 4 days ago…this is what happened while we slept…while we went to school, went to work, while we raised our families. While we watched CNN or CBS, ABC or NBC or listened to NPR or read the New York Times and never saw, read or heard a minute of coverage of this travesty…while we let our guard down and we let the Marxist/Socialist/Communist Left and Progressives creep into our schools, the unions, the media and our government…banners and posters with the images of Ernesto “Che” Guevara (Castro’s executioner) and Lenin would make Fidel Castro, Joe Stalin or Karl Marx proud to be an American!

A May Day rally in Los Angeles, co-sponsored by the SEIU and various communist groups, as well as other unions, reflected yet another step in the normalization of self-identified communist and socialist ideologies in the Obama era. Not only did the SEIU help to organize the rally in conjunction with communists, they marched side-by-side with communists, while union members carried communist flags, communists carried union signs, and altogether there was no real way to tell the two apart.

Southern California citizen journalist and photographer “Ringo” was on hand to record the day’s events, and posted a full-length photo essay on his site Ringo’s Pictures. To bring this important photo essay to a wider audience, I present here a small selection of Ringo’s May Day pictures; visit his site to see dozens more photos from the rally.

Photo Credit: Ringo

When I tell people that public political rallies are more and more being led by communists and socialists, most folks simply don’t believe me. Aw, come on, you’re just giving decent protesters an extreme label, they say. No, actually, I’m not: The communists freely and proudly declare their affiliation.

And the SEIU has no problem marching arm-in-arm with them.

“Smash Capitalism” is a slogan the SEIU apparently endorses — or at least doesn’t mind marching behind.

Photo Credit: Ringo

In case you think the SEIU is some peripheral out-of-the-mainstream organization:

The SEIU devoted $28 million to Obama’s campaign, making the SEIU “the organization that spent the most to help Barack Obama get elected president.” Furthermore, who is Obama’s favorite White House guest and one of his closest confidants?

The individual who has visited the Obama White House the most: SEIU President Andy Stern, who has visited 53 times.

Obama is closely linked with the SEIU.

The SEIU is closely linked with communists.

You do the math.

Note how the Communists that day (like the women on the right in this photo) carried solid red flags symbolizing their ideology. Keep that in mind as you view the next photo…

Photo Credit: Ringo

Photo Credit: Ringo

One of the SEIU leaders picked up a Communist flag and led a contingent of rank-and-file SEIU members. Everyone was OK with that.

The way you can identify the SEIU members in all these pictures: They’re the ones in purple t-shirts carrying blue-and-yellow signs.

So, as you can see, the communists and the union members intermingled as the march progressed.

In case you were wondering what the SEIU was saying during all of this, the SEIU chanted “Legalization or REVOLUTION!” Clear enough?

And it wasn’t just the SEIU at the march — other “normal” unions like the AFL-CIO were on hand as well.

Photo Credit: Ringo

Photo Credit: Ringo

Photo Credit: Ringo

Until recently, the average American has regarded fascists and communists as equally noxious and equally malignant. As well they should have. But the drive these days by the left side of the spectrum is to make communism and socialism somewhat less remarkable and more palatable. For two years they angrily denied the Tea Party accusation that Obama’s policies and supporters had a socialist bent.

But in recent months, as the accusation had started to gain traction, the new leftist tactic has become: 'What’s so bad about socialism after all? You’re demonizing a very popular and respectable ideology!'”

Now do you see why I agree with this reviewer's take on his book: "

Famed playwright and screenwriter David Mamet came out of the ideological closet three years ago as a newly minted conservative.

The Secret Knowledge: On the Dismantling of American Culture lets Mamet smash the liberal groupthink he blindly called his own for too long.

The book, a scattershot series of essays unified by Mamet’s striking prose, doesn’t read like a typical conservative manifesto. Would Sean Hannity or Ann Coulter expound on the id, the ego, and the superego in explaining how liberals brush aside inconvenient facts?"

You can read the full article here: David Mamet Demolishes the Left’s Sacred Cows

I especially enjoyed reading the NY Times review where the reviewer states: "While reading your new book, “The Secret Knowledge,” I thought, My God, in crucifying liberals, this guy is going to infuriate a huge chunk of the people who pay money to see plays. Are you concerned that you’re alienating your public?" 

 And David Mamet's answer...

"I’ve been alienating my public since I was 20 years old. When “American Buffalo” came out on Broadway, people would storm out and say, “How dare he use that kind of language!” Of course I’m alienating the public! That’s what they pay me for."

Read more here: David Mamet Explains His Shift to the Right By ANDREW GOLDMAN Published: May 27, 2011

 

Because folks, maybe that's why you read me too. LOL

Don't worry. I won't be covering any more deep topics for a little bit. About to become very busy and don't want to offend too many people for too long because that can become a bit boring, don't you agree?:)

Hope you enjoyed your weekend. I sure did! 

Happy 4th of July everyone! Hollywood Bowl, Vince Gill, Fireworks & pool party for me!

I'm looking forward to this long holiday weekend, aren't you? I hope whatever you end up doing you remember what we're celebrating, and why, and the men and women who are putting their lives on the line to serve this great country too (while you're enjoying your favorite cold beverage, hot dogs, hamburgers and the beach.:)

I'm hitting my friend's BBQ/Pool/Bday party & then the Hollywood Bowl to see their amazing fireworks display, clap along to patriotic music and hear a little Vince Gill myself. I like these two songs of his - the first, because I like to sing along, and the second, because Eliza Jane is my niece's name.:)

Don't you love the 80's hair? I especially love the shimmy, shimmy dancing myself.:) Happy Fourth of July y'all! Don't blow your fingers off! LOL More importantly, don't drink and drive - I want to see you again real soon, ya hear?

#Hermosa Beach green, Mayor Michael DiVirgilio & Parolee caught

By Joy A. Kennelly

Just thought you might like to read the excellent coverage The Beach Reporter gave to the Upper Pier Ave project and PCH/Aviation which explains exactly what's going on in the City of Hermosa Beach and the reasons why the streets are torn up in case you weren't aware.

So happy to see the PR company the city council hired has done a great job of focusing on getting the message out which will hopefully help business owners gain more business now that the project's benefits have been adequately explained.

Also happy to read there will now be a ribbon cutting ceremony to start educating the public on accomplishments to date and to provide a more realistic completion date for the entire project.

Here's a blurb from last week's paper:

"Work on the Strand Infiltration Trench portion recently finished up and a ribbon-cutting will take place to commemorate it April 22 at 11 a.m. Meanwhile, the Pier Avenue Storm Drain project is currently being worked on and will be acknowledged at the completion of the Upper Pier Avenue renovation, now scheduled for August due to weather and various minor delays in construction."

This is one of a few articles on the greening of Hermosa Beach which Mayor Michael DiVirgilio is pontificating on, City glows green with eco-friendly Strand infiltration trench and storm drain projects

Click on the link and you will be lead to all the other articles too. Probably helps that Michael comes from a PR background and is using this position as a stepping stone to greater political ambitions which is why his name is mentioned out of everyone on the city council, but then again, he is the Mayor...

Wonder if his boss, Rep. Jane Harmon, will be participating in President Obama's visit to Los Angeles, CA tomorrow to support Barbara Boxer. I would assume so. Will be interesting to see if Michael manages to get a photo op there too.:)

Sorry Michael, but I love teasing you (if you're reading.) You do love the spotlight and having represented celebrities in the past I can see one in training in you.

Just saying... That said, congratulations. It's a huge accomplishment and I wish all of you all the best. May it be timely, cost-effective, not ruin local small businesses and ultimately bring new business to Hermosa Beach to rival that of the bar traffic.

And I'll close with this because there might be other crime victims who need to hear this guy has been caught and are unaware of this story: BREAKING NEWS: Parolee arrested in Hermosa Beach robbery, kidnapping

TED, Seth Godin, Criminal Minds, Emily Dickinson - what do they have in common?

By Joy A. Kennelly

TED

In case you're curious where I might have written about my experience with TEDxMB, please go to my professional blog: www.thejoywriter.typepad.com/thejoywriterpr and here: #TEDxMB's "Creating the 10K" by Body Glove President/MB Resident, Russ Lesser for the first two installments. 

Seth Godin

One of the brilliant marketing minds, Seth Godin's recent musings has been inspiring me on days when I'm not inspired which I've been dying to share with you. Here's a highlight of Seth Godin's blog entitled "Phoning It in":

"I know doctors, lawyers, waiters and insurance brokers who are honestly and truly passionate about what they do. They view it as an art form, a calling, and an important (no, an essential) thing worth doing.

In fact, I don't think there's a relationship between what you do and how important you think the work is. I think there's a relationship between who you are and how important you think the work is.

Life's too short to phone it in."

That's the way I feel about everything I do in case you haven't noticed. I live and work and love passionately. I believe what I do makes a difference, even if it's just to me.

I encourage you to live your life with passion. If you don't like your job or you're bored - Get out of it, Stop living in the past, Be grateful, or Change your attitude. It will make all the difference in the world to someone, even if it's just yourself.

Life's too short to phone it in.

I have to admit I've been a wee bit busy and not in the mood to blog much since I write a lot otherwise.

Criminal Minds

A poem I heard at the end of the show I was watching tonight, Criminal Minds, (which featured my friend, Richard Clarke Larsen as a man with five kids as a possible suspect in a child abduction case) prompted me to blog tonight however.

I'll admit, I don't like these shows normally, but Shemar Moore is so easy on the eyes I can overlook the sick depravity once in a while. "I only made one baby, but I sure made a pretty baby."  See why I, Ellen and his mama think this is true in the video.:)

And if he's still single, please tell him so am I baby. So am I.:)

I like Criminal Minds every so often, because there's always some type of heartwarming ending due to the nice blonde actress, A.J. Cook, who seems so out-of-place cuz she's so sweet. And I like the quirky research character, Kirsten Vangsness, (does every crime show need one of those - NCSI anyone - or are women who research just odd?:)) and the quirky doctor played by Matthew Gray Gubler who always reminds me of his role in 500 Days of Summer whenever I see him on this show.

Nice to see in his bio he was raised with good values.:) I enjoy the other characters too, but sometimes they can be a little intense. It's especially hard to see Dharma's husband (Thomas Gibson) in a serious role without wondering when Dharma's going to pop out.:

Emily Dickinson

Tonight's episode ended with the following poem by Emily Dickinson which actually inspired me to write this blog in the first place. The sentiment was so beautiful I just wanted to share it with the world.

And I normally don't like poetry...

I'll close with this because I think we can all use a little more hope in this day and age:

Hope     

Hope is the thing with feathers
That perches in the soul,
And sings the tune--without the words,
And never stops at all,

And sweetest in the gale is heard;
And sore must be the storm
That could abash the little bird
That kept so many warm.

I've heard it in the chillest land,
And on the strangest sea;
Yet, never, in extremity,
It asked a crumb of me.

Good night everyone. Have a good one.

Today was a productive day

By Joy A. Kennelly

I enjoyed swimming this morning because it finally loosened up my hip muscle that has been hurting over a week now. The side stroke is my favorite because it really stretches my entire body and hit exactly where I needed it.

I then enjoyed a leisurely nap after reading a very funny book. I would tell you the title, but some people might not understand my sense of humor.:) Ask me privately and I'll tell you. After that, spent the majority of the day writing and catching up on stuff.

Tonight, catching up on my FirstPlace4Health homework which I need someone to help me interpret because some of it is confusing to figure out on my own.

So happy my month-long fast from events is over and I can go out again. I think I'll be more picky going forward though because I got so much more done not going out as often.

Have a good one!
Sent via BlackBerry from T-Mobile

Posted via email from joydacious's posterous

This year's Bucket List and resolution reflections

By Joy A. Kennelly

Reposting my bucket list from last year because I need the reminder and it's fun to look back to see what I've done and still want to do. Enjoy! 

What is yours?

Let's see, in no particular order, here's my spur of the moment, off the top of my head "bucket list" (from last year) -

1. visit Tahiti
2. see healing of family relationships - (starting.)
3. finish my PR certificate at UCLA Extension (may give up on this one, but we'll see. Not that important to me now.)
4. fall madly and deeply in love with the man I'm to marry and spend the rest of my life with. (Hmmm.:))
5. get my hormones balanced out once and for all - (Hmmm.)
6. lose 15 or 20 more pounds (lost 12 so far!) and keep it off (eating better and joined a gym!)
7. travel the world to exotic places I've never been like Thailand, Fiji, Bangkok, Australia, New Zealand (still want to do this. Better get cracking!)
8. go back to Africa and visit everywhere we lived and traveled to when I was young (love Africa and can't wait to do this.)
9. write my book on my open adoption experience and have it turned into a movie (maybe this is the year? Must join a writing group to organize my current book proposal!)
10. have a syndicated column writing like I do for my blog on whatever I feel like (need to pursue this seriously.)
11. make a difference in my community that changes its course of history forever (well, I guess you could say I've done this indirectly by helping my guys get into office and blocking the decision by the last city council to legalize alcohol on the beach.)
12. be a good role model to my nieces and son and children who are like family to me (trying.)
13. paint more (man, haven't done this at all and need to!)
14. love more (feel like I have done this and can always do more.)
15. share more (getting better at this too.)
16. volunteer more (need to do this more.)
17. trust more (learning...)
18. laugh more (always!)
19. bitch less (okay...!)
20. Enjoy life to the fullest in whatever I'm doing, with whoever I'm doing it with (Done and done!)
21. See The Oprah Show and The Ellen Show live to see great guests and receive great gifts (A girl can dream can't she?!)
22. See loved ones I've been praying for come to know Jesus as their personal Lord and savior (keeping this on the list.)
23.  Be a better friend in a deeper way to people in my life I care about (Believe I've done this, but will have to ask them.)
24. Have my life count for something bigger than myself (still trying to determine exactly what that is, but enjoying the process.)
25. balance my life better (now that I've closed my business, it seems to be happening naturally.)

Trying to decide if there's anything new for this year... Oh yes, here's some new ones...

26. Become more financially savvy is always good. 

27. Find my new career passion. 

28. See my sister and her family in CO

29. Resolve issues with the adoptive family once and for all.

30. Attend the Pebble Beach Food & Wine Festival and others I enjoyed last year (with or without a Chef this time.)

31. Get more involved with national politics on issues I care deeply about.

32. Create a group of like-minded women who will be supportive and encouraging to pursue our goals together.

33. Get more involved in business-oriented groups (online and offline - WITI, Women in Gaming, Art Lewin's groups, etc)

34. Check out doing voice-overs again.:)

35. Start writing articles for publications I enjoy reading myself. This time for reals.

36. Save up to buy a higher quality camera and take a photography class to better learn how to adjust the lighting etc.

37. Make quality time for friends and family (even when I get busy again.)

38. Start sewing again.

39. Wear more red, blue, pink and colors I look good in rather than black all the time.:) 

40. Write more frequently. Just because.

41. Go to my new gym at a minimum of two times a week. (Buy new gym clothes to make me want to go!)

42. Learn to cook and have more dinner gatherings to showcase new recipes.

43. Find a political campaign I can work or volunteer on for CA's upcoming elections. (Preferably paid.)

44. Create photo albums rather than just keep everything online and share/gift with friends and family.

45. Become a more Godly woman. Find a Bible Study that will challenge me spiritually and stick to it. 

46. Find a nice place to live that is great for entertaining and comfy.

47. Pitch spas and write about my experiences.

48. Take a photoshop class.

49.  Treat my Mom and Dad to nice things more.

50. Enjoy the process of life and let it happen as it may. Enjoy more "Come What May" days.:)

What I've learned from this experience

By Joy A. Kennelly

Today is the first day I can sit up and not feel like I'm rolling around on a ship from the dizzyness. I finally feel like everything is going to be ok and it's finally okay to cry over the trauma I've experienced. I don't cry easily, but I'm learning it's ok and helps in the healing process.

Caught up on the missed final episodes of Desperate Housewives and Grey's Anatomy which always pulls my emotions out (Grey's more than Desperate). I realize that my accident could have been so much worse. I could have not had the help I received almost immediately. I could have been hurt much worse, but I'm not.

Doesn't make the pain lessen, or the loss of time spent with friends come back, but at least today I can take a shower, put on clothes, put on my new sunglasses purchased to hide the hideous black eye and bruising on the left side of my face, and go out into the world to catch the tail end of this holiday weekend.

Perhaps live a little normally for a few hours, enjoy BBQ corn and other things everyone else has this weekend. This experience has taught me how vulnerable I really am and even though I'm very strong, I still need people to encourage and support me just like anyone else.

I'm also going to need help doing things I'm responsible for professionally if I'm to accomplish them in a timely fashion. That's the hardest part - asking for help, but it's necessary. I'll keep you posted.

I'm just very grateful I'm not hurt worse, for the people who were there to take care of, my parents who have been watching and helping me these last few days as only your parents know how, and all the good wishes and prayers offered on my behalf.

Thank you. It meant a lot and I believe has helped me heal faster.

Now to get back to my life. I miss it.

Thank you to everyone who helped me after my bike accident!

By Joy A. Kennelly

Life has a funny way of slowing you down when you're doing too much. I didn't think I'd be off the tread mill so quickly, but when you flip off a bike over the handlebars going full-speed because my bag hit the spokes, then it's time to take it easy.

I'm very grateful to the woman who called 911 and stayed to make sure I was ok, the HB Fire Captain (whose name escapes me because I was so out of it when he stopped to help me who was on his way to his daughter's graduation and stopped out of the goodness of his heart), Lifeguard Mike Miller for staying with me until the ambulance came and then taking care of my bike so I didn't have to worry about it afterwards, and all the kind EMT's and hospital nurses and doctor who helped me immediately after at Little Company of Mary.

Especially Nurse Ruth for that pain killer shot - what a relief! and Rolando with all the tats who might have scared me in another situation, but was so kind and caring I really appreciated him. And my parents who are caring for me now. The left side of my face and eye is extremely swollen and I look like Igor from some horror movie, but other than intense back pain and overall soreness, no broken bones or serious injury.

God is good! That's all I have to say. Now hopefully everyone who knows my real age won't blab it around. If anyone asks, I'm in my thirties. LOL

Now to get back in bed - I need to continue icing everything. So happy my parents are taking good care of me because I'm not supposed to be sleeping alone for the first 24 hours to make sure I don't have anything else more serious. Wish it was a boyfriend taking care of me instead, but...lol

Happy Memorial Day everyone! Don't do what I did and be safe out there!

Sad news, but happier times soon. Mark 5/21 on your calendars!

By Joy A. Kennelly

For those of you who are interested in the latest news regarding all the cool projects and people I'm working with on a freelance basis, check out my professional blog: www.thejoywriter.typepad.com/thejoywriterpr

I haven't written such a good long one in a long time so please feel free to leave a comment and tell me what you think ok?:)

Today has been kind of gloomy day and as a result I have been a little down. Doesn't help that earlier I was reading the book, The Girls Who Went Away: The Hidden History of Women Who Surrendered Children for Adoption in the Decades Before Roe v. Wade (Hardcover) which brought up emotions because I could relate to so many of these women's stories despite my adoption being open and  a totally different experience.

I think loss is loss not matter how you slice it. Sometimes it just hits a little harder than others.

Speaking of which, just learned that someone I enjoyed parrying with on our local This is Hermosa forum, Gary Mallette, died on May 7, 2009 which is very sad news.

Here's a link to his obituary - Gary M. Mallette.

If you knew him, please consider clicking through to the www.lafuneral.com link and leaving a condolence message for his family. I'm sure they'd appreciate it. A memorial service is planned later this summer.

Now just because generally I'm a happy person, here's an article to ponder: Happiness Is ... Being Old, Male and Republican

How do you like them apples LV? I guess one out of three aint bad. lol

Moving right along. Here's a link with news on who and what to vote for on Tuesday, May 19th special election (Vote for Teresa Hernandez!) and I quote from the www.socalgop.com site:

The Southern California Republican Coalition is taking the lead in the grassroots opposition to Proposition 1A.

The Governor may want to increase your taxes....  The California legislature's Democrats may want to increase your taxes....  The California Republican Party and its Chairman may not be willing to take a position....  The Chairman of the Republican Party of Los Angeles County may not be willing to take a position....

But make no mistake grassroots Republicans know a HUGE TAX INCREASE when they see one -- and so does the Southern California Republican Coalition.  The SCRC emphatically OPPOSES Proposition 1A.  It is a tax increase disguised as a spending cap that has not teeth.  The public employee unions may love it, but every tax payer in this state knows better.  The SCRC is leading an advertising campaign against 1A - Please click to donate today online.

"Prop 1A is a huge tax increase disguised as a shame, weak spending cap. The voters are not as ill-informed as legislative and party leaders may wish them to be.  The tax payers of California are not buying their lies.  The Democrats lied, and the Economy Died - and we refuse to go along to get along!" says Southern California Republican Coalition Chairman, James Crean.

"We oppose raising taxes for so many reasons.  We are in a serious economic downturn and increased taxes means there is less money to spend to spur the economy which is needed to lead to real job growth.

"The legislature just increased our taxes by $42 Billion dollars and now they want to add another $16B in tax increases.  That will do only one thing - cause everyone who pays taxes to look at moving out of California, especially those that run businesses in order to lower their product costs in order to stay competitive when prices are dropping across the country," says Crean.

There were no real cuts made in the legislature's prior budget, nearly all cuts were shame cuts in job positions with no one in the job or they were reductions in the year to year growth without any real decrease.  The Democrat legislature does not have any backbone for real cuts and the more taxes we give them, the more ways they will find to grow government and continue to pay off the public employee unions, such as the California Prison Guards union, the California Teachers Association union, and the Service Employees International Union.

In a time when real citizen's 401K and retirement savings accounts values are dropping, the unions are bankrupting the state with enormous retirement benefits that often lead to union employees earning more in retirement than when they were employed by the state of California.  Yet the unions are making no concessions, preferring to raise everyone else's taxes to pay their addiction to tax payer's money.

"The only informed vote on Proposition 1A is NO," says SCRC Chairman Crean, "and we are taking a lead position with grassroots voters to inform voters to vote NO on 1A along with NO on the other propositions.  I hope folks will go to www.SoCalGOP.com and make even a small contribution to save us from more tax increases."

CLICK HERE TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE SCRC NO ON 1A CAMPAIGN

If you want to hear a great speaker, consider putting this on your list of things to do for Thursday, May 21:

Beach Cities Republican Club Next Meeting

Club President: Peter Kesterson

Next Regular Meeting: Thursday May 21st, 6PM Dinner (no host), 7PM Speaker

Speaker: Ron Prentice, CEO, California Family Council

Topic: Ron Prentice is the CEO of California Family Council, formally associated with Focus on the Family and also working alongside Family Research Council.  California Family Council (CFC) was formed in 2003 with Ron as the founding director.  With offices in Southern California and Sacramento, CFC’s mission is to protect and promote Judeo-Christian principles in California’s culture.  They do so by communicating the analysis of current legislation, creating pastor and grassroots coalitions, and educating the general population on the issues of the day.  Ron also serves as the Chairman of the ProtectMarriage.com – Yes on 8 Coalition, working with dozens of national, state, and local groups to bring about a victory for traditional marriage in California.

Location: Sizzler Torrance, 2880 Sepulveda Bl. (Between Crenshaw & Hawthorne).  NOTE: we now have the full meeting room due to the large monthly turnouts.  No more standing room only!

All are welcome - Members and non-members alike! This event is Free

Click Here for Membership Information

And for those of you interested in making positive changes in your life, don't forget to sign up for the Standup Leadership seminar entitled Leading Change at www.leaderyou.com which will feature Coach Lori Ketkar and distinguished Naval officers, CAPT Luke and First Brigade Commander, Juliane, at The Shore Restaurant and Lounge from 5:30pm - 8:30pm.

Here's a link to a recent teleseminar so you have a taste of what to expect from this amazing evening: http://www.audioacrobat.com/play/WKfRv16Q

Lastly, for those who want to learn more about our upcoming TLC Empowerment Group which starts June 3, 2009 at TLC Pharmacy, join Business and Life Coach Sherry Marshall, TLC Pharmacists' Annabell and Mindy, me and Perfect Body from 4pm - 6pm at Luna G located at 323 Pier Ave in Hermosa Beach, CA that same Thursday night, May 21.

Check out Luna G's latest designer clothing for men and women and unique gifts, taste GoChi Juice and TAIslim, meet Perfect Body trainers and the rest of us and have fun mixing and mingling.

Just think? Two great events on the same night! Hermosa Beach is the place to be Thursday night!

Back to your regularly scheduled Sunday.

I've been enjoying mine since I rode my neighbor's bike to the Healthy Living Festival in Manhattan Beach at the Metlox Plaza and blogging. 

Time to go home and get ready to go out for drinks at that new Redondo Beach restaurant named Maison Riz.

That's my kind of place if you're taking notes. :) Gotta run!

Doesn't music just lift your spirits? GRAMMY'S BABY! And other stuff.

By Joy A. Kennellly

Very busy day today. Started out hitting my former church, Bay Cities Community, because they had an 8am service and I needed to be in Hollywood by 11am. I just loved being there. It was like old home week, or going home to see the parents. Very warm and cozy feeling. Very welcoming.

I enjoyed being there, but also realized Church of the Beach Cities is really my new church home. However, will continue visiting here until after the Oscars due to my schedule. Plus, it's nice to see old friends.

My good friend, Dr. James Gambrell, invited me to attend his upcoming concert, "On The Battlefield For Our Lord," in observance of Black History Month. Tribute to Black Christian Music - An Evening of Spirituals and Hymns, on Friday, February 20, 2009 from 7:00pm - 8:30pm at Baycities Lomita Campus 2043 Lomita Blvd, Lomita, CA.

Come early and enjoy Southern style food and drinks from 6:00pm - 7:00pm. Sounds like a great evening. Gospel music always moves me. You?

I have so many good African American friends who are accomplished and at ease with who they are and race isn't an issue at all between us. That's why it always surprises me to meet people who use their race to play victim.

That same Dem who has no worries about all the tax evaders and lobbyists Obama has been selecting, was totally trying to say that I was responsible for the evil history of African Americans today when we were debating politics.

Huh?

He obviously doesn't know who I am, who my friends are, nor the fact that I have a son who is half-black. What a victim! Get a life and stop blaming others. I thought Obama was supposed to wipe out this type victimhood, but I guess not. Maybe this guy needs some NLP reprograming. lol

In any case, had to dash off to Hollywood for training to be a press escort for the Oscars. It's super top secret so that's all I can say about that. Totally going to be amazing if today was any indication. Life is good!

Then dashed home and have been working on writing the press release and press kit materials for MB City Council Candidate, Kathleen Paralusz, ever since. She is extremely accomplished and I believe will really help Manhattan Beach, which is one of the cities I grew up in.

Hours later I'm finally done, but I'm oddly energized. Then again watching the Grammy's while I write surely helped. Music tonight was amazing!YEAH COLDPLAY! LOVE Adele too. Lovely Jennifer Hudson and oh so many more... Whassup with Chris Brown and Rhiana?

Okay, that's all because my hands are tired and I have a 7am meeting tomorrow.

I need my beauty sleep.:)

Have fun!

Highlights from DC Trip for the Inauguration - in no particular order

By Joy A. Kennelly

First art I saw in DC by Artist, GA Gardner.

That one painting of Obama reminded me of a cross between Bill Cosby and Obama.:)

 

More to come soon. Have a good one.

Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.

By Joy A. Kennelly

Isn't this verse encouraging? Psalm 30:5b "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning."

So true, so true. Nothing like a good cry to clear out the toxins and the blues. I have some very loving friends who really comforted me and I'm very grateful to them. One invited me to have a glass of red wine with her and spill my guts which surprisingly was very helpful.

Who knew if it was the chance to chat, or simply the wine, but I felt so much better afterward I'm tempted to include red wine every time I get the blues!:) What a sweetie Greycie is to so many!

She runs Luna G and offers the most wonderful designer clothing for men and women right here in Hermosa Beach. I promised to give her a proper write up soon, but wanted to give her a shout out now in the meantime.

Then, my Thai neighbor Lotus gave me a professional mani/pedi in the comfort of her home rather than her salon while we watched the stupid film, Van Wilder. I forgot how crass it was, but it felt good to laugh at the stupidity. I love bulldogs! LOL

Lotus is available to come to your home too if you're local! Shoot me an email and I'll hook you up (if you're good.lol) I feel so pretty now - nothing beats a great mani/pedi to feel pampered I always say.

Today, another good friend, Angelique, came over to help me organize my piles of paperwork that have been overwhelming me forever. What a sense of accomplishment and peace to be so organized once again.

Thank you Angelique aka my angel. She's an excellent Executive Assistant who was recently downsized and is available for personal assistant work if you need some help. Let me know and I'll shoot over her resume.

Like my friend Georgine says, she's using this time to get ready and it's all about your attitude. I totally agree. Keep a Positive Mental Attitude like my former PE teacher from 8th grade always used to say. I also always get a great boost from attending my Business Networking International Beach Cities Professional group - motivated, positive, encouraging, supportive people.

Thanks BCP colleagues and friends! I needed you all in my life!

In any case, hope you had a great day today too.

Be Inspired......Nick Vujicic (life without limbs) - amazing story

By Joy A. Kennelly

This young man is absolutely amazing. I've been wrestling with what to share about this week and my struggles and sickness when I stumbled across this man's life changing story and just had to share it with you now.

Everything else pales in comparison.

Click here to watch: Be Inspired......Nick Vujicic (life without limbs)

Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

Watch and be inspired.

It's good to get out of the Hood! (Hermosa Beach hood that is...)

By Joy A. Kennelly

My back has been out of commission for so long I haven't been able to leave Hermosa Beach or the South Bay for weeks. Never realized how important the escape was until this past week.

Ventured down to the Santa Monica Pier to catch their free concerts on the pier, but just wasn't feeling the music. Some Italian woman was singing soulful, sad sounding songs by the time we got there. We enjoyed the rasta band playing in Rusty's Surf Ranch on the Pier so much more!

Even the armless guy playing guitar with his toes begging for money on the sidewalk was better in our minds. Sad, but true.

I had grabbed a friend for company and we ended up taking quite a nice little tour of Santa Monica Pier. Here's me on the beach.
It had been so long since I'd been to the pier, I didn't even know there was a Bubba Gump Shrimp restaurant there!

That was fun to check out. I bought a t-shirt for my son (who lives with his adoptive parents in DC) and then we flitted in and out of a couple places to check out the scene. Loved the bathroom mosaic tilework at Shutters Hotel on the Beach.

Here's us goofing around inside. What's the guys bathroom like? 

Also, the decorations at Casa Del Mar - two of my absolute favorite places in Santa Monica to hang out, meet people for drinks, enjoy a nice meal and conversation, or just read. 

 
 

I love nice hotels even when I don't stay there, but just visit. We really felt like we were on vacation because we'd both been cooped up for a bit - her with a cold and me with my back.

Good to get out is all I have to say.

Then my friend/client, Arlene, was very sweet and treated me to high tea at my favorite Beverly Hills hotel - The Four Seasons on Doheny. Recognize these stars? lol We did see an actor there, but everyone's famous in BH, so who cares right? Just kidding. I don't know what it is about that place, but it's my favorite hang. Plus, their high tea is really, really wonderful. We had a great time catching up and she was busting a gut at some of my recent pix which made me happy.

Isn't the elevator tilework pretty? I'm a sucker for good artistry.

Popped over to visit my married Cougar friend Shana afterwards for a quick minute who informed me this morning after going out last night with her friends some 27 year old is after her now. We crack each other up with our young guy tales. She's very happily married and I just like to have fun with the whole concept.

My friend Adrienne keeps telling me I should pitch a cougar reality show, but I figure if I'm that interesting, people will find me. Plus, do I really want superficial, sex-driven, go nowhere relationships showcased on TV? Not really. I just like goofing around and being silly. Helps break up the stress of real life. LOL I'm ready for my close-up Mr. DeMille!
Okay, that's all the fun recap for now.

Please pray for my friend Deborah's dad who's in surgery today from 12-5pm. It's extremely serious and he could die. Sorry for the downer, but sometimes life interrupts and requires a quiet moment, or two. Thanks for your prayers. She's very scared for him. Me too.

Now this really is good day.

Enjoy yourselves! And pray for Deborah's dad!

Girls just want to have fun (including Kathy Griffin...)

By Joy A. Kennelly

I don't know what those Greeks put in my iced coffee today, but it's 4:30am and I'm wide awake! It's the only thing I can think of. Just teasing. Or am I? That, plus the fact that I totally overdid my fun today and my back is telling me so in no uncertain terms. I'm waiting for the two Ibuprofen to kick in to put me to sleep.

Backs are so weird. When you're feeling good and not injured, you never know it's there. However, once you're hurt, then it feels like a hot burning rod that says, Here I am. Don't sit there. Wait, don't lie like that. No, that's not right either. Stop it. You're hurting me! OUCH! OUCH!

OY VEY!!!

Fortunately, I will have relief in the morning when I visit the doctor's office. Oh wait, it is morning. I don't think I've ever in my life stayed up this late except for..., oh let's not go there. Memories, like the corners of my mind. Is that the verse? I think I'm becoming delirious. Just kidding.

What totally cracked me up, is here it was 3:30am in the morning and since I'm not sleeping I think, let's see what all the other insomniacs watch. Lots and lots of informercials, but then, I flip to Bravo and guess who was on?

My new best friend, Kathy Griffin! I can not even believe it. I can't get away from that redhead. She was just what the doctor ordered. She's my Oprah. You know how other people turn on Oprah to escape their life? Well, I'm watching Kathy to escape my pain. Thank you Ms. Kathy Griffin.

Thank you too, for bleeping out the bad words. Although I have to admit, I did swear during a recent Hermosa Beach Planning Commission meeting which was televised, so I'm not innocent either. However, it's much more pleasant to watch your show sans the F bombs. Now if you could only teach Chris Rock to clean up his act too.

Wouldn't it be funny if someone washed out all the celebrities mouth's who swore on TV? Think of all the lives that could be changed by cleaner airwaves - young kids growing up realizing that the F word isn't an adjective. Teen-age boys realizing that the F word doesn't signify making love. 20 somethings the same thing. 30 somethings same thing. 40 somethings I don't know. Our whole world might have an expanded vocabulary!

I AM SO TIRED! Why can't I sleep? I'm telling you. Don't order Greek iced coffees if any one ever offers you one ok? Trust me, it's murder. My body is so tired, but my mind is racing a 100 mph. TURN OFF PLEASE! Generally whenever I've not been able to sleep before, I blog and then my mind goes calm and I can sleep.

So, back to Kathy. So, here I am, 3:30am in the morning watching Kathy go to a Bear convention. Now when I first heard the news, I thought it was for people who get off dressing up in bear costumes which is funny and weird as it is, but it's not that. It's gay men who look like bears.

Now that really is Life on the D list. Too funny.

Now what was so hilarious about this one is that Steve Woz, her beau (you know, the guy who created Apple Computers with the other Steve), actually looks like a bear himself and the bear gays were into him! Woz is such a crack-up because he's so brilliant and yet so naive it's really endearing. She kept calling him the Billionaire bear. Wouldn't you like to take him home with you?

I now see why Kathy likes him and vice versa. She's very smart. He's very smart. He's not phased by her act. She's not phased by his wealth. He accepts her for who she is. She accepts him for who he is. Isn't that what we all really want after all? They're adorable together.

I also learned why Tom, her male assistant, always looks so odd. He plucks out his top eyelashes! No wonder! I thought it was because he just looks bug eyed, but now that I know this... Makes total sense. Nothing against you Tom. You're a good man, but you have to know this isn't helping your appearance.

I should talk. I pull hairs out of my eyebrows just for the hell of it when I'm too lazy to do it properly. I figure I'm so blonde no one can really tell what my brows look like anyway, but every so often there's these little gaps that show up when I put color on them.

Stop looking at me! It's really not that noticeable, but since Tom shared his beauty secret, I felt I should share mine too. I'm bonding. Don't try this at home.

Now if these stupid Ibuprofen I just took would only kick in. I've been trying not to take any drugs because I find when I do, then I really over do it because I don't know when I'm hurting my back as easily. When I'm not, then I do. However, I'm trying to sleep so hopefully this will kick in soon. I really must get some Motrin and GoChi Juice asap.

GoChi Juice is a natural anti-inflammatory and also helps your sleep. When I was drinking it before I felt really good and slept really well. Now, without it. OUCH! Insomnia! However, I'm trying not to complain because who wants to hear someone going on and on about this? I don't. I bet you don't either.

But if it bugs you so much, stop reading ok? I'm not paying you right? Sorry, feeling a little grouchy. Meow. Hiss...

Okay, I think that's all I wanted to say. I just really wanted to have some fun today because I'm so tired of not being able to live my normal life since this accident. Guess I really need to baby myself which I don't like doing.

Oh, and nothing against the Greeks. I'm just teasing. I'm also just teasing when I refer to my friend as a Desperate Housewife. She laughed so so should you ok? Life's easier when you can laugh at yourself. Right Kathy?

Okay, time to try to sleep again. Opa!

It's official...

By Joy A. Kennelly

I have bronchitis according to my doc, or else a peculiar case of pneumonia. Now that I know what it is I feel better. She said it probably wasn't Valley Fever because I was hacking up a lung and feeling very weak even before going to AZ.

However, if the antibiotics don't kick this then we'll see what else we can find. OY! At least I know for now though. Makes me feel good to know it's not allergies and there's a cure in sight. I hope...:)

My Bible Study group are praying hard for me which might explain why I felt a little stronger today. Ever since Friday night I've been so whipped it's all I could do to get out of bed and function. So nice to have my brain back too. Got to have my energy for tomorrow night's big mixer and Sunday afternoon's event too!

Lots of good stuff rolling along. I'll share more later, but know it's all good.

Hope you're having a good one. Try to pop by my event even if just for a bit. We think we're going to have a real fun crowd because Sharkeez has invited their crowd and we've invited a ton of people too.

Take care of yourself!

God is good.

All the time. God is good. Did your Presbyterian church ever say that? I love that saying. Today it's so true! God is an awesome God is all I have to say.

More later, but right now The Riches is on. I would have written more sooner, but cable's been out for the past bunch of days. Kind of nice with no internet access - made me actually make phone calls!:)

Okay, it's back on.

Have a good one!

Cambria is wonderful and love Big Sur too!

By Joy A. Kennelly

Had a really wonderful vacation - more later. Life is just really great right now.

Thanks for popping by!

One of the bravest men I've heard in a long time...

By Joy A. Kennelly

A good friend just sent me this video and it's so beautiful, I really hope you'll take the time to watch it. I don't know how to imbed the video, but please click here to review.

What an amazing testimony to the world and to life.

Check it out and tell me what you think...

Small Claims Court info in case you need it too.

By Joy A. Kennelly

I just love my Ladies Who Brunch group. Every time I need something, someone has posted the information. Like this link for Small Claims Court. What a great resource.

Happy suing everyone!:)

9 Things You Simply Must Do to Succeed in Love and Life and other thoughts...

By Joy A. Kennelly

Sometimes you just need a good friend to tell it like it is and remind you that God is in control, not you. I keep saying I'm turning my life over to His will and His leading in my life, but deep down inside I keep thinking that means I'll still get to play in Hollywood with all my friends I've known for years and years.

Not so. I was reminded tonight by my good friend that when one door closes, another opens. Right now it seems like God is closing the door for me to do more personal publicity for actors and it's very sad to me. I LOVE that kind of work. I love helping people brand themselves and create business and opportunities from that identity.

I LOVE IT! It makes me very happy and I think I'm good at it. Others do too, but they can't afford my services (at least the ones I'm meeting. Maybe I need to meet more better ones. Ya think?)

For whatever reason though, it's just not happening right now and I have to accept that fact as a fact and stop living in denial. Maybe I'll go back to doing it down the road, but for now... Not happening. I'm beginning to realize I don't really know what God wants for my life anymore.

That's why my friend telling me she knows I have a gift for publicity and that maybe God wants to use my talents in representing the South Bay is a little overwhelming, but also encouraging. Maybe this is the right direction to take.

I have to admit though. When I think about living AND working down here I feel like I'm going to be bored out of my skull! What is going on at night other than bars and happy hours? Will someone please tell me? Lots of stuff to do on the weekends and during the day, but nights? WHAT IS THERE TO DO - ESPECIALLY IF YOU'RE SINGLE???

Maybe I need to start planning some parties and get some events going or something. I don't know, but I do know that if I am going to stay down here I need to entertain myself. I can't deal with the thought that the highlight of my night is going to be meeting a friend of mine down at Barnes & Nobles and seeing what the latest mags are. I'll shrivel up and die! Not that there's anything wrong with it, but not all the time!

No wonder people drink so much down here. LOL. They're bored! I'm bored! Oh well. I need to stop ragging on my little home town and start doing something to make it more fun. I'm sure there's other people like me who would love to do stuff at night too.

I can only hit Java Man so often too. Love that place, but have to say, the customer service with some of the guys working there has gotten kind of bad. I don't know why. I'm not tipping any different than I have in the past. I am ordering the same stuff. I don't know. Just an fyi, mr. owner guy. Especially the Sunday closing crew. What's up their butt?

I was so bored I threw an impromptu night BBQ on Tuesday and all nine people I invited showed up. That was with two hours notice. I think they're bored too. This community needs something pulling the singles and those without children of the town together outside of bars. Just a thought.

I'm tired. Just felt like blogging. It's been awhile because I've been busy and other stuff taking up my time, but I miss sharing. Maybe it's a little too personal, but I always hope that perhaps other people will relate to what I've written and will be comforted or encouraged to know they're not alone feeling the way they do.

One of the things the former shrink from the Women of Faith conference I attended last weekend said is, "When we reveal, then we heal." (This was a very fun conference, but kind of Christian lite so you had to be there which is why I'm not covering it. Check out the link for more details. It's good, just not what I expected. Laughed a lot though!)

Back to my original thought - "When we reveal, we heal." I know, trite phrase, but it was also echoed in this book I bought that weekend by Christian clinical psychologist, Dr. Henry Cloud, entitled 9 Things You Simply Must Do to Succeed in Love and Life.

I kept trying to read bits and pieces of the book over the breaks because it had such an intriguing title and he's such a great author on numerous topics. I almost didn't get it because I still have a gift card from the women's retreat I attended and was going to get it later, but then I read his counseling of an overweight patient about how to effectively lose weight - one pound at a time, one week at a time (more details in the book - read it! It's really great. This is my 2nd time reading it now.) which was a concept I hadn't really grasped because I'm the "I want it now and if I can't have it right now why bother" type person.

However, that idea really resonated with me and since reading the book I've joined a gym again. Time to hit the ground running so to speak. Maybe I'll eat more salads now too. Maybe Weight Watchers is next? Who knows? :)

Back to the book though, I digress. What Dr. Cloud explains is that there are 9 certain traits and characteristics of successful people that he was able to analyze after meeting so many "de ja vu" people.
He calls them that because he kept meeting people who reminded him of other people and he thought maybe he'd met them before because there were so many similarities, but then he realized these people all addressed life in the same successful  way. That's the genesis of the book. I highly, highly recommend it. It's easy to read, lots of examples with real people not celebrities which would make you think you can't attain that life, and very informative.

There's a little study guide that goes along with it and if you bought the two together at the conference I was attending you got a discount - I bought both.:) Now I'm starting to read the daily step by step guide to changing your life in 30 days. It's very scriptural so if that's not your thing don't bother. But if you are interested in hearing God's perspective on you and your dreams, then get it. I'm enjoying reading it too.

Speaking of goal setting... A few of my friends and I are going to start the Goal Gals back up again real soon. (It's something I created back in the mid-90's which my friend Cynthia named when she was part of it where I get groups of people together to accomplish goals in three month increments.)

I'm excited about starting again because I always get so much support in groups like this and accomplish so much more than I would by myself. It's a good time to start too because pretty soon I'm going to be very busy again. I'm very excited that my producer/writer/mentor friend, Marcia, is going to help me create my adoption doc because I'm just way too close to be objective. Should be interesting...at least I hope!

I'm also looking forward to taking Chris Howard's seminar again next weekend. He takes everything that's taught on goal setting and just kicks it up to a whole other level. I was so inspired last time I attended can't wait to attend this one. I think you can still sign up for free. Check it out. If you're a conference attender like I am!:)

I'm still loving working with my artist client, Gali Rotstein. She's creating some really cool new art pieces and is busy in the studio. I'm busy pitching her to more and more galleries. We have some pending, but until things are confirmed I can't really discuss them here. Just know as soon as we know, you will know. There's also a very cool women's magazine (one of my favorites actually) interested in her story too and if I get her that hit, it will be major! Say a prayer!:)

Otherwise, wrapped the car gig last week (although they're not done, but I was - HA HA) and have been busy catching up on things this week as a result. I don't know how people work 9am - 5pm. I really don't. It's so machine like. But the money's nice I guess. However, according to my Henry Cloud book, it's more important to do something that makes your heart sing.

So, I'm off to read more and learn what's going to make my heart sing! Have a good one all.

Don't be a stranger.

Enjoy the read.

South Bay Sorrow - Al Anon & Alcohol Anonymous support

By Joy A. Kennelly

I'm beginning to accept the things I can not change, the courage to change the things I can and praying for the wisdom to know the difference. It still deeply, deeply, deeply, saddens me that the South Bay is so over-run with rampant, flagrant alcohol abuse on our public parks and beaches.

I couldn't stop from crying today as I shared my past few weeks with my Al Anon group because it just breaks my heart that my city is so blind to the legacy of drinking we're leaving generations to come unless we make some changes now.

Here's some information to help those of you curious what I'm talking about to understand the nature of this disease. Those who suffer from it can find information on Alcoholic Anonymous at the end. Thanks for reading. My prayers and thoughts are with the city and those who still suffer.

May we see ourselves as we are and decide how we want to live. One day at a time.

Al-Anon Family Groups Backgrounder         

In the U.S. and Canada, there are more than 18 million people with a drinking problem, and only 10 percent of them will ever get help. according to some estimates, every individual with a drinking problem disrupts the lives of at least four other people through business and financial responsibilities neglected or the child who loses a parent due to a drunken driving accident, careers ruined and marriages destroyed by problem drinking. Of the estimated 80 million Americans and Canadians affected by someone else's drinking, most will not get help for themselves and many will never even realize that they could have benefited from some insight into the problems caused by another person's drinking.

Al-Anon Family Groups was the first of many mutual support groups to adapt AA's Twelve Step Program. It is well-known, but still not widely understood. Al-Anon focuses only on providing confidential help to people in need. There are no celebrity spokespeople; the confidentiality and anonymity of members is strictly protected.

Al-Anon Family Groups (which includes Alateen for younger family members) is a pioneer in the concept of "family recovery" from alcoholism, which holds that one person's drinking problem adversely affects the lives of close friends and family, and that friends and family who are able to recover from these adverse affects are able to improve their lives, as well as the problem drinker's chances for recovery.

There are 26,000 autonomous Al-Anon/Alateen groups in 131 countries, with groups now starting in Cuba, Iran and Romania.

Al-Anon Family Groups is supported by members' contributions and sale of its literature. The group declines contributions from non-members, and accepts no outside funding from government, foundations, or other agencies.

Al-Anon has helped millions of people over 55 years, and sold about 13 million books, including the inspirational daily readers One Day at a Time in Al-Anon and Courage to Change. There are more than 100 Al-Anon/Alateen books and pamphlets. A range of materials are available in more than 30 languages.

Information on A.A.

Alcoholics Anonymous® is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for AA membership; we are self-supporting through our own contributions. AA is not allied with any sect, denomination, politics, organization or institution; does not wish to engage in any controversy, neither endorses nor opposes any causes. Our primary purpose is to stay sober and help other alcoholics to achieve sobriety.

Donny's fans, Portofino Hotel & Yacht Club in Redondo Beach

By Joy A. Kennelly

I'm absolutely wiped out tonight - too many meetings all week long. Hoping to have more next week, but tonight I'm kickin' it.

Just had to comment though that Donny Deutsch seems to have a lot of fans! Most people who've found my blog this week are because of my writing about his Big Idea show...LOL.

In any case, had an amazing dinner and drinks with Ewa and Gary over at the Portofino Hotel & Yacht Club in Redondo Beach the other night. I didn't even recognize the property since it's been completely renovated - it was absolutely stunning.

If you haven't gone there in a few years, it's definitely worth taking a date you want to impress to their Baleen restaurant since it's extremely romantic with subdued lighting, candlelight at the table, the boats gently rocking in the harbor, a cool sea breeze coming in the open windows, and amazing food!

Here's the official description of the restaurant according to one travel site I found:

Baleen Los Angeles

"Nationally renowned for its serious food and whimsical mood, the all-new Baleen Redondo Beach brings an eclectic fine dining experience to The Portofino Hotel & Yacht Club, with the Pacific Ocean offering the perfect backdrop. For outside dining, the patio overlooks the marina with dramatic drapery and firepits. Inside, the motif is balanced with dark wood flooring and accents. The upstairs bar offers a cosmopolitan-lounge vibe, with fireside sofas and chairs."

I'm not a foodie so I can't do the food justice, but trust me it was really, really good. The entire place is like this hidden jewel of the South Bay. Shhh, don't tell anyone because I want it to be my private hide-a-way when I need to get away from the world.

Very sophisticated, charming, resort-feel to this sea-side location. I just loved it and loved the company of that night. If you look at the web site you will be blown away with the renovation of the place. Very elegant - definitely my kind of hotel.

We three met at the big chamber mixer over in El Segundo and had originally planned to just get together for drinks, but pretty soon, drinks lead to appetizers which lead to me enjoying filet mignon encrusted in Roquefort on a bed of sliced short rib pieces with a side of mashed potatoes and artichoke and a caprese salad. Wonderful.

I had been so tired from driving all day to various meetings when we first met at 7:00pm I had to have two cokes to wake up. By the time we left the restaurant it  must have been around 10:30pm we were all having such a fun time getting to know each other. That was a pure dining experience.

Ewa, the controller of the hotel, is so entertaining and interesting. Gary is my new ad/marketing bud who runs Tiburon Design. Very gifted, talented guy with a great company. Highly recommend him and his work. I must say, that evening was one of my more memorable South Bay experiences to date.

Okay, that's all for now. I'm too tired.

Time to hit the hay. Have fun out there.

Remember - don't drink and drive!:)

AICP Awards Show, X Bar, The Liquid Muse and the Independent Television Festival,

By Joy A. Kennelly

Just returned from attending the Association of Independent Commercial Producers Awards Show tonight over at the LACMA with an actress friend. I like working the door of the show because then the rest of the night we can mix and mingle and enjoy.

Here's a link to the show in case you're curious to see which commercials won. I love this this stuff because I love cutting edge creativity which I believe the advertising industry creates over and over again. What was interesting was to discuss the state of this business since it's turned upside down right now. I never realized how many advertising events I go to till tonight.

Even though I'm in public relations, I appreciate good advertising. The ability to tell a story in 60 seconds is brilliant. That's why I think there's many talented commercial directors who move into creating amazing features as a result. I don't think it ever works the other way around though.:)

Here's a few of my favorites from tonight - watch them and you'll see why (They're all good, but these stood out the most to me.)

1. Vaseline "Sea of Skin" by Smuggler's Director Ivan Zacharis - brilliant talent - check out his reel on their site. This commercial is so artistic and all nude so it was only shown in Europe. It may offend some of you, but I love it. I think it's actually orchestrated by a famous artist, but I'm not sure. This company picked up 7 awards I believe.

2. JC Penny Crazy Beautiful - fun to watch, but you've probably seen it already. It was cute to see again.

3. Nike Zoom LeBron IV "Pool" by Epoch Films Inc's Director Stacy Wall. This one is so funny if you watch nothing else you must see this one.

There's others, but I'm tired and have a meeting with the Hermosa Beach City Manager in the morning and other meetings the rest of the day. Yes, I'm doing it. Going to see what we can do to help stop the public drunken madness one city official at a time. I'll keep you posted.

Oh yeah, the other day was interesting - here's one anecdote which should make you LOL as it did me. Met up with my new English actor friend and a group of his model, musician, director, actor friends at the Belmont again. He shared that he'd bumped into the Hotel Rwanda director at Les Deux the other night and he was wearing a t-shirt that said, "If you see the police - (then the logo) Warner bros (get it? Warn-a-brother?)

I have had such a kick sharing that with all my friends. I think it's especially ironic since it was that particular director wearing it! Too funny. Spent some time catching up with my good friend/mentor Marcia immediately after since she lives right around the corner and we rarely see each other any more, but talk on the phone all the time. Ended up borrowing a skirt from her since mine was linen and horribly wrinkled. Thanks Marcia!

The rest of the day was filled with a lunch meeting with Robin from LA Inc to discuss future media opportunities with them. While eating bumped into my technology friend Natalie Farsi who I only see when I'm dining out every few months or so - it's just uncanny how that happens.

Then dashed up to Shana's to see her since we rarely see each other any more since I'm living in the South Bay and she's still in Hollywood. Drove back down to the South Bay for a doctor's appointment which I missed so took a quick swim to cool down and mellow out before running back to Century City to the new X Bar in the Hyatt Regency in Century City to hear my other friend Natalie aka The Liquid Muse teach  a class on how to make 4 different cocktails which was very entertaining and yummy.

Ironic, eh? However, I like to support my friend's endeavors and she personally invited me to attend so... I was just careful to soak up all the alcohol with lots of delicious appetizers.:)

Met the Hyatt hotel's amazing publicist, Jennifer Barry of The Barry Group, who I'd worked with on the hotel press release for the Los Angeles Convention & Visitors Bureau aka LA Inc. We happened to sit at the same little table and enjoyed noshing all class long. A little too spicy for me at times, but yummy nonetheless.

I really must have a mixer there soon because the outdoor patio is really, really lovely - outdoor firepit, huge comfy chairs, cool, summer breezes, and nice music playing. There was a girl laughing rather obnoxiously, but otherwise, it was very quiet overall. Extremely enjoyable. This hotel is where a lot of high-end Hollywood events are held so if you're looking for a convention location - check it out.

Then, once that was over dashed cross town to Hollywood again to Raleigh Studios (where I held one of my last festivals) for the Opening Night Gala of The Independent Television Festival and the LA TV Fest with a live performance by Biz Markie who was awesome! I had no idea what to expect and the friend I had invited bailed at the last minute leaving me to attend alone.

To be honest it was really nice to be free to do what I wanted and I actually had a great time - better than I expected! The backlot was absolutely packed with young, aspiring filmmakers. There was an energy in the air I've not experienced that often at most Hollywood events - it was like they were all expecting great things to happen and the world was their oyster. That was a great vibe to be part of.

Bumped into my Actress friend Esther and her girlfriend who I learned had been finalists that night which was great for them. Gave them a little boost and got them on the red carpet which was thrilling for them. Made me happy to help. We had fun creating fun pictures in their picture booth area.

Also bumped into a friend I haven't seen in maybe 7 years and had fun catching up with her until this weirdo guy who'd been bothering me all night came up and interrupted. For some reason my friend thought I'd want to talk to him and bowed out. I quickly gave him the cold shoulder and he finally got the hint. ICKY! Not my type AT ALL.

Now Shemar Moore, the actor, he is totally more my type and he was there. Yes girls, I gave him the flirty eye, but he had a beautiful blonde bombshell with him so I left them alone. However, later on I could swear I saw him looking at me. Isn't that so silly? Give a girl a break ok? It's been too long since a handsome black man has paid me some attention and I'm taking that to the bank.

I had to wonder if he'd read my blog from awhile back when I was cooing about how adorable he was and maybe he was wondering if it was me or not. No, Mr. Moore, I am not a stalker. Just an admirer of all that's hot and sexy and that night it was you babe. Bring it on!

Whoa, be still my beating heart. Okay, enough of the silly. What I really appreciated about that night was how multi-cultural it was. Years back when I was producing my film festival I always made sure to have representation of minorities. A filmmaker friend of mine didn't think it was that big a deal until I warned him he'd see it when he went to accept an award at the Kodak building.

When he walked in, he was the only black filmmaker there. His first name is Marshall and we both thought maybe since his film wasn't like a John Singleton ghetto film, maybe the judges thought he was white and he was there by mistake. I wonder what ever happened to him? He was extremely talented and I used to have the biggest crush on him. It was just nice to see that now at least at this festival we've come a long way baby.

Oh, I just remembered that tonight I not only enjoyed a great meal prepared by Patina, but I also bumped into my Redondo Beach editor friend, Nelson Brann, who edited the PSA I did a few years back for the Tsunami Relief Benefit I helped promote.

I didn't recognize him, but he recognized me and gave me a big hug hello. I said I know your voice and I know your face, but I can't remember your name. Then it all came rushing back. He's grown his hair out and looks completely different now! It was fun to catch up with him and his wife.

I also met the Publisher of the Creative Handbook, David Shapiro - great guy. We were having a nice chat, but I was distracted because I saw another friend, Sylvia Kahn, who I hadn't seen in more than 8 years walking towards me. She was part of my film festival days before I had my son.

She remembered me too! We met when I interviewed with the production company she had been working at at the time and we stayed friends for quite awhile afterwards. Sometimes I think I go out on interviews just to make new friends! LOL!

She's now working at Technicolor and we're going to "do lunch" soon. She's got this amazing new position and maybe there's some fun stuff for us to do together again. We'll see. You just never know who you'll bump into going out which is why I love Hollywood.

Now that my back is officially well as determined by my chiro I'm back to my usual hobnobbing in a big way which I just love. Met an Executive Producer tonight who wants to talk biz. Who knows - could start repping a post house which would be very cool. I love good creative work which is why I ran my film festival for so long despite the low pay. Not no mores though - you pay, or you don't play.

Okay, this is really all. I think the coffee I drank is finally wearing off and I'm tired enough to sleep. All in all, these past two days were a lot of fun and very good for meeting new people and catching up with old friends. Lovin' the variety!

Now to see what tomorrow (or should I say today since it is almost 2am) brings... Sleep well!

Simpson's Movie, Fritelli's Donuts, Gali Rotstein, The Counter restaurant, Paige Premium Denim

By Joy A. Kennelly

The Simpson's Movie cel art party was so cute. Here's a pic of me with the characters. I wanted to take
them home with me they were so cute. I love animation. I used to market the World Animation Celebration that 50,000 people would attend. As a result, I knew all the coolest animation and animators. Amazing talent in that field.

This party was in celebration of the upcoming Simpson's Movie and the walls were filled with cel art from the TV show, Family Guy, and other famous animation from all eras. They served Fritelli's Gourmet Donuts which were quite yummy. I didn't try a Flamin' Moe martini, but those looked good too. There was a lady giving make-up tattoos that the kids just loved. Joe Montagna, Fred Willard and Tom Arnold were some of the celebrities in attendance.

My client, Artist Gali Rotstein, came, as well as, Interior Designer, Leslie Sachs and Graphic Designer, Cynthia Combs. Gali showed me the completed press kits and they're just stunning. It's really amazing what a difference good design makes. I LOVE IT! Now to get the approval or whatever I need to start pitching her.

I was rather bummed that I was too late to benefit from my EPPS mixer so to comfort myself went to The Counter restaurant by myself. A friend had taken me there before, but we had arrived when they were closing so I wasn't able to experience it then. Just reading the review on the place - no wonder it's so crowded! Oprah AND GQ Magazine say they're the best burgers! GQ even went so far as to call it one of "The 20 Hamburgers You Must Eat Before You Die."

I wasn't terribly hungry having tried a donut earlier and skipped ordering the "Build Your Own Burger" which they're known for. I sat at the counter and was joined by a very interesting South African Graphic Designer who works for Paige Premium Denim. We had a great chat and when his burger came it was definitely a concoction all his own! No wonder the place was packed with men. What a great burger joint!

My veggie burger paled in comparison, but it was delicious nonetheless. It was fun to go out for dinner alone and have a nice conversation with someone unexpected. Just what I needed to get me out of my funk for missing my mixer.

Oh well, I've decided to start a professional networking mixer for PR/marketing/design/event people since we all collaborate anyway. Should be interesting to see who attends. Looking forward to it. Last night's MB Chamber Mixer was interesting. Bumped into my sister's childhood friend there and promptly re-connected them via the phone which was fun.

Schmoozed around with my new designer friend, Gary Evans of Tiburon Design, who is extremely talented. We met at the Torrance Chamber lunch. He's one of the people I'm considering starting this mixer with. Also some of my Beach Writer friends too. It's time all of different disciplines had a mixer to support each other as a whole!

So, that's all for now. We'll see what tomorrow brings! Have a good one!

Here's an encouraging word...

A friend just sent me this and I had to share. Enjoy the read!
 

OUR CAREFUL UNBELIEF

"...do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink;  nor about your body, what you will put on"

--Matthew 6:25

Jesus summed up commonsense carefulness in the life of a disciple as unbelief. If we have received the Spirit of God, He will squeeze right through our lives, as if to ask, “Now where do I come into this relationship, this vacation you have planned, or these new books you want to read?” And He always presses the point until we learn to make Him our first consideration. Whenever we put other things first, there is confusion.

“...do not worry about your life....” Don’t take the pressure of your provision upon yourself. It is not only wrong to worry, it is unbelief; worrying means we do not believe that God can look after the practical details of our lives, and it is never anything but those details that worry us. Have you ever noticed what Jesus said would choke the Word He puts in us? Is it the devil? No--”the cares of this world” (Matthew 13:22). It is always our little worries. We say, “I will not trust when I cannot see”--and that is where unbelief begins. The only cure for unbelief is obedience to the Spirit.

The greatest word of Jesus to His disciples is abandon.

Matthew 6:25-34 (The Message)

25"If you decide for God, living a life of God-worship, it follows that you don't fuss about what's on the table at mealtimes or whether the clothes in your closet are in fashion. There is far more to your life than the food you put in your stomach, more to your outer appearance than the clothes you hang on your body. 26Look at the birds, free and unfettered, not tied down to a job description, careless in the care of God. And you count far more to him than birds.

27"Has anyone by fussing in front of the mirror ever gotten taller by so much as an inch? 28All this time and money wasted on fashion--do you think it makes that much difference? Instead of looking at the fashions, walk out into the fields and look at the wildflowers. They never primp or shop, 29but have you ever seen color and design quite like it? The ten best--dressed men and women in the country look shabby alongside them.

30"If God gives such attention to the appearance of wildflowers--most of which are never even seen--don't you think he'll attend to you, take pride in you, do his best for you? 31What I'm trying to do here is to get you to relax, to not be so preoccupied with getting, so you can respond to God's giving. 32People who don't know God and the way he works fuss over these things, but you know both God and how he works. 33Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don't worry about missing out. You'll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.

34"Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.

I'm in love with Ari & other thoughts

I love Entourage's Ari because no matter how badly he wants something he still has integrity and is willing to be the man and protect what matters most to him (at least he did that in tonight's episode for little 'ole American Chinese Lloyd.)

Speaking of Lloyd's, my old SPI friend Lloyd found me on Yahoo personals and sent me a hello. He's the one who came up with the name of my old film festival since we worked at Sony together. I haven't officially joined yahoo personals yet so can't respond. If you're reading this Lloyd - thanks for tracking me down! Nice to see you and hope to hear from you soon!

I have some really good guy buds in my life (and one that is pissing me off right now because he won't do what he said he would, but we won't go there - at least not tonight. Let's dwell on the good ones and I'm starting to realize I have quite a few good ones. Thanks David!)

I was pleasantly surprised to hear another guy bud tell me he loved me tonight (in a brotherly kind of way) and not to let the docs cut open my head. I really don't think my brain scan will lead to that, but it was just so nice to know that someone cares about me. Thanks Chris. That was very thoughtful and loving of you to say.

I have had a very mixed emotion day. Started out fine, despite a small headache. Then dashed off (late again - oy!) to church to catch the sermon which ironically enough was on death today. Genesis 5 (the lineage of Noah I believe. I was really hurting then so opted to cut out during the scripture reading to pop a painkiller - look it up on Bible.com if you're curious.)

Anyway, the main point that Pastor John was trying to make is that eventually we're all going to die. It's how we live our lives until then that matter and that having God in our lives helps (I'm horribly paraphrasing, but forgive me, it's been a long day.) What was comforting to me was the reading of Matt. 5:4 - Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

Today was Perry, my friend Alexandra's best friend's memorial, held at the Renaissance Faire. That's where she met him and where he spent many, many years helping put it on and having fun with all the people there -- it was a natural choice.

I'd never been, but like to support friends and chose to go even though it meant going alone since my friend who had said she'd go had to work after all. Irwindale is actually only an hour away and it's very pretty out there.

I had no idea what to expect because I always thought it was just a bunch of people who loved medieval times dressing up and getting drunk together. I didn't realize that regular people would attend this like an event. I liken it to the civil war re-enactments in the South - we're on the west coast so this is our version of an adult fantasy land. Wouldn't you agree?

When I got there I received a call from my friend John F. who is producing the Los Feliz Street Fair and when he heard I was there he decided to join me since he thought there might be vendors there who would be interested in his fair and it sounded like a fun way to spend a Sunday. Run on sentence - shoot me now!

I told him it was a memorial for Perry too, but assured him he wouldn't have to attend since he didn't know anyone, but it was good for him to meet Alexandra since she might have some tech pr work for him. That's his specialty - check out his site on my PR Friends link.

We have collaborated on many, many projects over the years and he's very tech savvy too. We always talk shop about stuff and I'm glad he's my friend. We worked on the Tsunami charity benefit in Beverly Hills as our last big project together.

Back to the fair. I've never, ever, ever, ever seen so much boobage in my life! If you're a boob man, you'd be in 7th heaven. It really made me realize that I will never, ever, ever showcase my breasts like that ever and it made me feel good to realize that once and for all. Sorry to those who wished otherwise, but I'm just not that kind of girl. At least in public. (That was the 2 cosmos speaking the other night. :)

One lady was kind of gross about it because it seemed like her boobs were going to fall out they were so huge and falling out of her top, but she assured me that her double I's (yes, that's E, F, G, H, IIIIII!) were still so large, that only a portion were showing and the corset was actually helping her keep her balance. OY VEY! I had to laugh when she told me that with one of the guys sitting near me. He couldn't get over it either.

Needless to say, I called one of my friend's and told him he had to come down there because this event was so him. It's so not me, but it's so him. I am leading this young man down the path of sin and degradation - forgive me God. :)

Okay, enough of the boobage. Everyone was dressed in costume - some even came as pirates, ninja people, cave people, and one was channeling Madonna with big silver cones with nipples - I'm sorry, I regress, but give me a break you might have been a little shocked too if you'd been there. But then again, maybe not. I don't know you!:)

What I found most interesting is that you dress in costume according to being peasants, middle class and upper class. People actually chose peasant costumes - what does that say about their self esteem? Just had to ask - I mean really. If you're given the option of choosing where you're born, wouldn't you choose to be well-off? I would. There were all kinds of people there - old, young, black, white, hispanic, you name it... Very eclectic which surprised me also. Cool don't you think?

Anyway, it was a huge fairground with lots and lots of interesting booths with jewelry, costumes, food (entire turkey legs were quite the hit as were chocolate dipped cheesecake on a stick), fun stages - my favorite was the Bold and Stupid men stage.

As I watched, a bunch of men were told what to do by two men dressed in full costume in order to win the hand of a fair maiden in the audience. Stand up straight, stick out your chest, raise your arms to show off your muscles, swagger, bow and then raise up your "sword" with a flare. To see normal dressed men being told what to do and actually doing it by two very bawdy leaders dressed in hose and funny diaper like pants was quite funny.

It was a very entertaining day. We watched a jousting match between England, France, Italy and another country I couldn't hear. The four men were on horseback and did tricks before the "Queen." She is an actress and has played this role for 10 years. That's the thing about this event. For some people, it's a way of life and like a family. Quite interesting.

As we walked to the jousting arena, Alexandra sprinkled Perry's ashes along the way. Don't tell, but he's now strewn all across the fairgrounds. He would have wanted it that way. We all met at 5pm for the memorial service which Alexandra lead. She's doing very well and only breaks down occasionally now. Thanks for praying if you did. This was a big day for her filled with lots of memories.

I don't know why, since I'd only met Perry two times very briefly, but I was crying for him by the end of her speech. It wasn't even a sad speech, but just to know he was gone and how much he meant to so many was very sad to me.

This has been my first funeral since my grandparents died back in high school. Others got up to speak and they were crying too, even men, which only made me cry more. I always cry when other people cry because I empathize so much.

John F. was still out enjoying the fair and when he called me to connect I told him I couldn't stay any longer because I was so sad and was going to head home now that the memorial was over.  I haven't cried in a long time and I think I was grieving a lot of things at once. I don't know what or why, but I've been sad most of the weekend. It was a very sad evening.

I hit one of my 12-step meetings just to allow myself to feel these feelings with other people around. What was so ironic was that one of my friends shared the book he was reading for his psychology class and it was on living and dying. Today has just been a day of death. I couldn't escape it.

However, watching Entourage was an escape. I really needed it too! That's why I say I love Ari. Despite everything this character is and does, there's just a goodness that supersedes his seaminess that I just love. It makes me think that all the people in Hollywood that I know who are nasty and whatever (not that many, but they're out there), really do have a side to them that is lovable and good. I may not be the one to see it, but someone does.

It also helped when the guys left for Cabo because I've been feeling the need to escape there every single day lately. I just need a mental and physical break!

Anyway, today was an interesting day in more ways than one. I'm just glad it's almost over.

Sleep well everyone. May your dreams be filled with love and good thoughts. May your death not come for a long time. I've had enough for awhile. Enough....

Oy vey! I'm having a sugar hangover

Does anyone else eat when they're totally feeling overwhelmed? If I was still having sex I would be doing that instead of eating, but since I'm not... Oy Vey! Someone kill me now.

I am juggling so many things right now all I want to do is get through this week and then hibernate for a week on a beach, but I'm too busy to even call and set up my Cabo trip - plus, I doubt I could get them to turn it around that quickly.

So, onward and upward. Getting wireless tomorrow - I can't take it anymore! I need my internet when I want it, where I want it, how I want it. At least my UCLA classes are almost over and I've turned in all my papers and projects. Big load off my mind. This Wednesday is going to be cool though with all the great guest speakers. I think some of us are going to go out afterwards too.

What's so funny about working for yourself is that you never really experience holidays like everyone else. You basically make your own schedule and so today I worked because I had a lot to get done.

Yesterday did a lot for my singles group Soul Support too - pitching all the local media via   hard copy mailings at the airport and spreading the word that way. We'll see! We launch this Friday which should be relaxing. It's always the first meeting that stresses me out, but then everyone loves it and it's all good.

A few new people I've never met have signed up which is exciting. I also found a woman to lead music which is great. I just love Pastor John and Cindy and hope others meet them too. They're lots of fun, young spirits, very Godly. Just the way I want to be when I'm their age.

In any case, caught Because I Said So over the weekend - cute, but predictable, but nice escape. Plus, the one guy was great eye candy. I had written a better review earlier, but then lost everything - oy vey! Just watch it ok? If you're a girl...

Okay, hope you're having fun and staying out of trouble. This week should be fun if everything I've pitched for the Oscars gets confirmed. Fortunately, my clients are very mellow having been famous internationally and don't really care either way. Just the way I like 'em. It's the ones who are so eager to be famous that drive me crazy. Take your time, do it right, be professional and polite and your career will last a lot longer (in my opinion.)

So, that's all for now. So glad I'm going to do my pilates with Shana tomorrow - maybe then I'll stop eating all the sugary stuff in the house. :) She's great and has modified the exercises to accommodate all my injuries which gives me great hope for success this time in working out.

So, sweet dreams....

I'm feeling a bit low today

This usually happens after I've had a huge event, or lots of work so I'm not surprised. Plus, I'm still waking up at odd hours and not being able to sleep which deeply affects me. However, good stuff has happened today which has brightened my spirits so no complaints here.

I was told by the casting person himself that I have been selected to be the housewife in the music video I auditioned for last Friday- still waiting to hear from my agent to confirm. It's a late night shoot so it shouldn't interfere with my day work. Then, unexpectedly, a good friend popped by the house and we went to lunch together. I needed that visit.

Then, a large entertainment company I worked with when I was at Sony Pictures Imageworks just called me to inquire about my doing PR for them. I think God is moving because I sent out a prayer request to some friends and today is rather unusual for me.

So, that's all folks. Sorry I've been so quiet, but I had that all-day Build your PR business class on Sat. which wiped me out. Then on Sunday hit the LGB Travel Show and pitched numerous companies on my travel writing trips to Tahiti, Fiji and Los Cabos. It was nice to meet the people face-to-face because then it will be easier to make all the arrangements necessary.

Then, facilitated my Blogging group up in Hollywood for a few hours which was extremely informative and a lot of fun. Phil Gomes is a great guy who holds a very high up position at Edelman PR Agency. It was very nice of him to take time out of his busy schedule to speak to all of us (especially since he was packing all day and moves in a week!)

I learned how to showcase some other people's websites here on typepad which is fun. I haven't added everyone, but have been really burnt out due to lack of sleep. I'm also a little bummed my partner in crime in my blogging group has had to step down due to medical issues of her partner. Very sad and hard to hear about. Please pray for Alexandra and Perry if you think about them. Cancer is awful.

I will add all my other friends, Dharmashanti ,  John Pieplow , and Diamond Kut Entertainment, I promise. As to the question of who are my clients, one is Italian Actor, Domiziano Arcangeli, and the other is an Actress named Lejla (who you will see via her website soon.) She has an extremely unusual last name which is why we're going for the single name promotion. We'll see how it works!

Now off to do more stuff. Thanks for checking in. I promise to get back on track and be more interesting soon.:)

Still busy, but enjoy this encouragement

Psalm 23 - - EXPLAINED  This is an eye opener... Some probably never thought nor looked  at this  Psalm   in this way... Even though they say it over and over again.   The Lord is my Shepherd That's Relationship!       I shall not want That's Supply!     He maketh me to lie down in green pastures. That's Rest!       He leadeth me beside the still waters. That's Refreshment!       He restoreth my soul That's Healing!       He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness. That's Guidance!       For His name sake That's Purpose!       Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death. That's Testing!       I will fear no evil. That's Protection!       For Thou art with me That's Faithfulness!       Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me, That's Protection!       Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of my enemies. That's Hope!       Thou anointest my head with oil, That's Consecration!     My cup runneth over. That's Abundance!       Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. That's Blessing!       And I will dwell in the house of the Lord. That's Security! Forever That's Eternity!       Face it, the Lord and I think you are special.  Send this to the people you think are special. I thought this was pretty special, just like YOU!!! What is most valuable, is not what we have in our lives; But WHO we have in our lives.

 

If God brings you to it, He will bring you through it.

This is so true I just had to share it with you ladies

Hi everyone, I just recently signed up for this Christian newsletter from Crosswalk and really like how real it is. Check it out and may it encourage you as much as it has me.

I'm looking forward to starting a new Bible Study with a bunch of new ladies this Thursday as we study "Grace" (Ironic huh since that's my sister's name?) and felt like this devotional couldn't have come at a better time. Although, I usually have really good female friends, but this is good anyway. Enjoy the read!

 

January 31, 2007

 

Women: Friend or Foe?

By Rachel Olsen

 

  “I'm a friend and companion of all who fear you, of those committed to living by your rules.” Psalm 119:63 (MSG)   

 

Devotion:

Not long ago I would’ve told you that I don’t much like women. I counted a few as friends, but the rest of the gender I dismissed categorically as too much trouble!  Never a “tomboy” by any stretch of the imagination, I just found guys so much easier to be friends with.  They generally say what they mean, let you know where you stand, and never size you up to determine who has the better haircut. 

 

I didn’t want to distrust women, but the majority of females in my life at the time evoked that response. They were catty, competitive, and conniving.  They gossiped, backstabbed and manipulated. I have to readily admit that I often acted in kind. I like drama in movie plots, unpredictability in novel endings, and rivalry in sports arenas. But I decided I wanted stability and camaraderie in my relationships.

 

Isn’t it strange how addictive relational drama can be?  I’m told you can put a frog in a pot of cold water on the stove and gradually turn up the heat, and it will stay in the pot until it reaches a fatal boil without attempting escape.  Evidently the frog doesn’t realize how unhealthy the situation is slowly becoming. I can’t vouch for the accuracy of that fable - I’d never boil a frog - but I’ve been in a few friendships that were like that.  I stayed way too long in the pot before I realized this isn’t healthy for me, and I got burned.

 

So what lead me to flip-flop my position on having girlfriends? First, I began to worship Jesus – I became a Christian.  That brought about many beneficial changes in my mind and spirit.  Where I had become cynical and guarded, God’s love penetrated and softened my heart.  I learned the meaning of Proverbs 18:24, “There are friends who pretend to be friends, but there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother” (RSV). Christ was now my forever friend who could be completely trusted.

 

I also made changes in my choice of girlfriends.  With the help of the Holy Spirit and the lessons on character from the Bible, I learned to recognize which people and relational patterns were unhealthy for me.  The Bible teaches, “He who walks with the wise grows wise” (Proverbs

13:20

, NIV).   I wanted to walk with wise women through life.  So most of my friendships ran their course and dissolved.  A few I deliberately phased out because my own character wasn’t strong enough yet to remain Christ-like in their company.  Meanwhile, I prayed for quality friendships with women of faith. God heard my prayers, just as the Bible promises He does.  Fun-loving, God-loving, gracious women at my church sought me out and invited me out.  And I made the choice to trust them and invest. 

 

Over time, God birthed in me a huge compassion for females.  I began seeing women through His eyes and not just the lens of my own hurtful past.  I realized that not all women are like those I had encountered. I learned to forgive those who had hurt me. With empathy, I could now understand and reach out to women who feel lonely, insecure or betrayed.  That’s a rough place to be emotionally, and as the Bible says, “one should be kind to a fainting friend” (Job

6:14

, NLT). Today I can finally say, “I love women!”

 

What about you … do you find yourself entangled in an unhealthy relationship?  Are you in emotional hiding after being burned?  Maybe you’ve written off an entire gender because of the “bad eggs” you know.  Take that to God and ask Him to work restoration in your heart and life.  Study the Bible and learn the traits of trustworthy character so you can develop them yourself and recognize them in others.  Ask God to send wise, emotionally healthy women of faith into your life.  Then muster up the courage to respond and befriend them.

 

Neither gender is categorically a foe – but I count myself happy to be sipping Starbucks, playing dominos, and sharing my dreams with sisters of the fairer sex.  Won’t you join us? 

 

Dear Lord, I want to have good friends, and to be a good friend. Help me to develop godly friendships, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 

Related Resources:

 

Traveling Together: Thoughts on Women, Friendship and Journey of Faith by Karla Worley

 

Get Over it and On With It by Michelle McKinney

 

Listen to Today's Radio Show

 

Application Steps:

Read through the book of Proverbs in the Bible for guidance in wise character.

 

Reflections:

What is the current state of your friendships?

 

What is the current state of your heart?

 

Power Verses:

James

2:23

, “And the scripture was fulfilled that says, ‘Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness,’ and he was called God's friend.” (NIV)

 

Proverbs 22:11, “If you love purity of heart and graciousness of speech, the king will be your friend.” (GNT)

 

Proverbs 31 Ministries

616-G,

Matthews-Mint Hill Road

Matthews, NC 28105

www.Proverbs31.org

Memories, & condo shopping

The palm of my hand itches - doesn't that mean you're coming into money? I would love that! In any case, finally nailed down a couple places for my bday parties. Yes, for someone who doesn't generally celebrate, I'm throwing myself two. That way those on the westside and the south bay can hit the one closest to them and those who live in Hollywood can hit the one closest to them. I just want to see as many friends as possible. I told everyone they didn't need to give me presents (although I love presents!:) and would be happy with a funny birthday card because I usually don't get cards. We shall see!

Otherwise, enjoyed my work-out class last night. Felt like a big dork in the back trying to keep up with the instructor whose music seemed to be on speed. It was fun and man did I work up a sweat! I didn't hurt today which is a good sign - just real horny for whatever reason. Maybe got my blood flowing again. HA!

Moving right along... Checked out a bunch of condos today and saw one I really liked, but need to make sure it doesn't have mold since I'm highly allergic. Otherwise, it's perfect as far as I can tell. I asked my parents to review all the listings and they agreed with me on that particular one which was nice.

Good 'ole Dad has been buying and selling real estate for years and knows just what to ask and what to look for. I'm glad he's still around to give me advice. My realtor is great and has sorted everything into neighborhoods to give us a clearer idea of what we're looking at when. I'm taking tomorrow off from checking to do some personal stuff, but we're going out again on Sunday. I'm starting to get a good idea of what's out there and what I can afford which is good.

Otherwise, not much new to report.  Dad did tell me a funny story about one of our old neighbors growing up though. You have to remember, Dad always wanted boys which is why we did a lot of yard work and other boy tasks that little girls wouldn't normally be asked to do. We played with legos, blocks, and mattel toy cars rather than Barbie dolls and were socialized to be very independent.

As a result, all of my sisters  and me are very strong-willed, opinionated and independent which is a good thing in some scenarios and not so good in others!:) We're learning...:) So, back to my story. Apparently, the across the street neighbor boy, Mark, was a problem child and when we would play with him he would beat up on Glori, my youngest sister. Dad didn't like that and told me and Grace, my middle sister, to go beat him up. Now you don't tell girls to beat up some boy, but I guess we didn't know any better because we did according to my Dad!

That didn't sit well with Mark's grandpa, Leonard, who was raising him because Dad told me that Leonard came over to talk to Dad to tell him to make us not hurt Mark because Leonard was beating up on him too to make him change and didn't need the extra help. I just had to laugh out loud at that one because I had totally forgotten about that one. I do remember Glori getting beat up a lot and Grace and me going to protect her, but that particular incident I don't remember.

I remember one time in elementary school a kid in my grade wanted to fight me, but I was so tall (I was always the tallest one in all my classes) that I just put my hand on his head and held him away from me as he was slugging away at the air between us. I remember getting into a lot of fights with my sisters when we were little too, but fortunately we outgrew fist fighting and now it's just verbal or the silent treatment. Oh well, I think every family has a little bit of dysfunctionality right?

So, that's all for now. Still raspy voiced, but feeling so much better and people can finally hear me which is a relief. My medicine is really working and I'm so glad I have it especially with all the wind we've been having lately. My poor realtor is really suffering from his allergies, but other than a very dry mouth, I'm fine. YEAH! It's so good to feel good! Don't you agree?

Have a good one - I'm having a low-key night and wish you one too (if that's what you want.)

Happy, Happy, Joy, Joy

Even though the weather is absolutely grey outside, I feel very happy today. I allowed myself to get bumped last night off my flight home and now have a free trip anywhere in the lower 48 on United Airlines. Yeah! Met a real nice fun guy and decided to throw myself a birthday party - rarely do it, but I'm in the mood to socialize and my birthday is as good a reason as any right?

Now to nail down the location, invite everybody, and have fun! My myspace buddy's were so nice and left me lots of kind birthday wishes. I rarely get any cards or presents because of mine falling on New Years Eve, but hey, I'm not complaining, just happy this year is different!

Here's some fun pix from my trip for your viewing pleasure. There's not too many of me because my face is so swollen due to my allergies and I don't like them. However, here's some I do like (repeating some from my myspace page - but what the heck!):

You know Christmas is over in LA, when... This was my neighbor who must have had about 5 big blow-up dolls on his roof.  Oy vey! 

Now I don't know if you can read this one, but it's the note my son left out for Santa. I thought it was just too cute!  We had a wonderful visit.

Here we are together on their porch. He's getting so big!

This is me in the Denver airport wearing my new winter jacket and boots. I wasn't going to buy them before the trip because my friends assured me they were having such what warm weather, but it was really cold by the time I flew out. Thank you Lisa and Linda for the shopping advice - I was very warm!

This is another picture from my visit with Eli - isn't winter just gorgeous out there? All we get in CA is ugly greyness, but this starkness is beautiful to me.

This is the view from my sister, Glori's Breckenridge cabin the day I arrived. By the next day a lot of it had already melted. I just love changes in season like this, but I'm also loving the fact I don't live in it!:)

This is me and the adorable mountain kids we got to babysit while their daddy fixed the roof. Little Kyle and Fancy Beth - yes, that's her real name - wait till you see some close-ups of her - she's a cutie!
Maybe she looks like she's had a hard night, but check out the next one - awake and alert!
They were such good babies.
Almost made me want to have some of my own... Almost...
This is me on my bday surrounded by my lovely neices and the cute cards they all made for me on the table. They're extremely creative and loving. Just love them so much! This is their loving parents - my sister Glori and her very funny husband, Dwayne. I call him Dwayno for fun. He's like the brother I never had.
I shared my singles ministry struggles with both of them and they had some great insights into what worked for them when they were starting a new group too.

Glori is a great sister to me and I love both of them to pieces. I really needed this trip because I felt so depleted before I left - emotionally, spiritually, relationally, and otherwise. Now, I'm in a much better place period.

Now, back here in LA, I feel so much better! It's really amazing the difference feeling good and feeling loved can make in your life.

So, I'm off to my step class at my new gym. Only went that once before and then had no car to go, but realize after seeing some of these pix, I really need to exercise and get back into shape. It's time to take control of my health! Onward and upward as they say. Talk at ya later!