The Start to an Adventure

A little over two months ago I received an email from a theatre company in Dallas. At the beginning of summer, I had applied for a directing internship. Almost three months later, they finally replied. Only, they didn't want me for an internship, they wanted to give me a job. An assistant stage manager job to be exact. I, of course, was ecstatic to be getting my first paid gig, but here's the catch: rehearsals started in a week and they needed an answer ASAP. So I had about a day of soul searching, and decided to take the leap, pack up my life, and a week later I was waving goodbye to New Mexico (at least, temporarily). I was lucky enough to have family in Dallas, but this was a big step to move away, even for a short amount of time, from my parents, my dog, and my friends. I left my comfort zone, and I have no regrets! This was a wonderful experience where I met beautiful people. The show I ended up working on was Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra. On closing night, just two nights ago, I snapped a few pictures to remember this fun experience:

Waiting for the start of the show

Cleopatra and Antony's entourage

Dancing for the camera

Our lovely dressers

Cleo's men, or waiters in a Brazilian restaurant? You decide!

I think we have a photobomber...

The backstage puppy (I mean, look at that face!)

Last scene...

I loved working with this eclectic and fun group of people, and I hope it's not the last time! I am grateful for the opportunity that will hopefully be the first of many wonderful theatre jobs to come!

September Favorites

As September is coming to a close, here are a few of my favorite things from the last month:

1. My TV Favorites: The first is Chuck. And yes, this show has been around for awhile; but thanks to my cousin, I'm officially hooked. It's been hard not to binge-watch as all five seasons are on Netflix, but some days, my self-control is weak! Second is Brooklyn Nine-Nine. The season premiere for season two was just last night, and it was fabulous. The sarcastic tone, and crazy mix of characters make this show unique, but still accessible. And finally, Face Off. When asked to describe this show, I always say American Idol for makeup artists. However, I don't think that truly encapsulates the talent these artists have. I don't watch too many competition shows, but this one is a must see!

2. Books: Unfortunately, this month has been a slow one in the reading department. I find I go through phases of burning my way through books, and then follow with a slow meander. I have, though, been making my way through The Maze Runner Series. This is a post-apocalyptic series that shares some similarities with The Hunger Games, and, though I've never read it, I have been told Divergent, as well. With the new movie of the first book just released, I new I had to read it. I will have to say, The Maze Runner is a great, exciting read.

3. Shakespeare: For the last month, I've been working on Antony and Cleopatra. Before my first rehearsal, I was actually not familiar with this play at all. However, after working on this show, it is, in my very biased opinion, a shame this play is not performed more often.

4. These recipes: The first being for a tasty tortellini soup (perfect for the upcoming cold weather). It was a hit between my aunt and I, so I believe it will be a repeat. The second is a german chocolate pie. I'm a bit of a fanatic about coconut, so if I can have a pie that has a coconut crust, I'm in heaven. I will have to say, if this recipe is to be attempted again, I would let it chill longer than an hour, as suggested by the instructions.

Here's to the lovely things of September, and the upcoming pumpkin spice of October!

To Start Things Off:

I've never been one to last very long when I get the crazy idea to start a journal. I suppose it has quite a bit to do with the cringe-factor of rereading my mindless ramblings or terrible whining. Or my lack of details when writing only for myself. I'm one to ponder within, and if I keep my thoughts private, I don't express well on paper. However, as I am beginning, somewhat, a new chapter in my life, it might be nice for friends and family (and maybe even future Michelle) to keep up on what goes on in my daily adventures. And this will make it easier for me to get those pesky details out of my head and down on paper, or internet page, as it were. I would like to take this opportunity to express my deepest apologies to future Michelle reading this if there is a cringe-factor, I promise I'm not doing it on purpose!

And so, without further ado, welcome!