J(a)cosa: Joyful, merry or lighthearted

How about a happy post?

2010-01-20T01:00:00.007-05:00

Well, thanks for the kind words from friends and family- you guys are great!

Since someone's still reading, I'll share some of the main events for me last year:

1. I was a quarter finalist for the American Traditions Competition at the Savannah Music Festival. I've always wanted to go to Savannah, so this was a dream come true for me. I didn't make it any further in the competition, but I saw some amazing vocalists whose company I was honored to be in, and got to see a beautiful city!

2. I went to Turkey shortly after Savannah- yes, Turkey- with a group of teachers from the school where I teach. We went to begin work on an original production we are creating, with our students, in hopes of helping bridge the gap between east and west and opening some lines of communication. It was everything I could have hoped and more- Ephesus, the Virgin Mary's house, Istanbul, Aya Sofia... Truly one of the most amazing experiences of my life and, come to think of it, it deserves some serious blog time. Maybe that's one of my spring break projects... This is the Virgin Mary's house, near Ephesus. One of my favorite sites and a beautiful, sweet experience.

3. I turned 30! Yes, I own it. I actually didn't go through any freak-out when I hit 30. I was kind of psyched and really enjoyed celebrating with my friends and family, who threw me a fun party, to celebrate!

4. I redecorated my room- love it! It's great to have such a lovely place to come home to.

5. The 2nd Charter for Charity was held December 5th and was in celebration of women. It benefited an organization called Women for Women; they help women from war-torn countries rebuild their lives. The students did an amazing job and I was thrilled to have another successful fundraiser for such a great cause!

6. Last, but NOT least, I completed my Masters in Music Education, through Boston University! Rahooooooo! I'm SO thrilled to be done with school and REALLY looking forward to visiting Boston for the graduation!

It's alive... for now.

2010-01-19T03:11:00.002-05:00

Well, I've decided to revive the blog... for tonight. It's been more than a year since I posted and, to be really honest, I haven't really missed it. It was great when I was in Boston and away from so many friends and my family, but now it seems unnecessary. I don't even know if anyone checks it anymore- I even forgot the address and had to google my own blog! I guess lately, it seems like blogs are most useful for people who have some specific purpose, or people who have growing families to update far away friends and family on, neither of which I have.

Which brings me to my ramblings for the evening:

Generally, I am very happy. I have been blessed to complete several degrees, to find a career I enjoy and feel fulfilled by, and to have a great deal of travel and life experiences that have been amazing and wonderful. I suppose, once in a while, I have a hard time with being single- trying to figure out who to bring to the occasional wedding or party, watching a good romantic comedy, talking with a well meaning but sometimes insensitive married person who is trying to figure out what I'm doing wrong, that sort of thing. Still, at the end of the day, I remind myself that I live a very blessed life and know that I am open to marriage if and when the opportunity comes, but will continue to live a full, happy life in the meantime.

I don't know if I'm just in a mood but, tonight, it bothers me. It bothers me that, out of the millions of men in the world, I can't seem to find one single one who I think is great and who thinks I'm great and wants to move on to another phase in life together. Tomorrow, I'll get over it and all will be well again but, tonight, it bothers me.

Charter for Charity (continued)

2008-12-24T14:59:00.001-05:00

Here's a video someone posted of one of the performances I was in- enjoy!

Charter for Charity

2008-12-24T14:45:00.003-05:00

So, last Friday, my crazy schedule came to a screeching halt with the completion of Charter for Charity. Charter for Charity was an event I proposed earlier this year, where students and staff at Natomas Charter School would perform in a multi-media show. The profits would benefit the school as well as Bakiad, an organization dedicated to encouraging peace through cultural understanding.

Students and staff worked hard, preparing various dance numbers, a scene, narrations, choral, duet and solo pieces, and art work to be auctioned off during a silent auction before the show. Parents donated hundreds of dollars worth of food and decorations to help make the event beautiful and even more enjoyable. From the posters to the program to the auction to the actual show, I had my fingers in all of it but, even more than that, I had tremendous help from other staff, great students, and many parents. The show was a great success, raising a good amount of money, and offering an opportunity for students and staff to come together for the cause of peace and understanding. This presentation, which was shown near the end of the concert, was my way of tying everything I hoped to convey during our show into one short video. If you didn't get to see it, please check it out!

I'm sad.

2008-11-25T04:27:00.002-05:00

That about sums it up.

In the past few weeks, and as a result of everything with prop 8, horrible things have been done and said to people on both sides of the issue. Friendships have been damaged, churches and temples desecrated, violence, blacklisting and boycotting, the list goes on. I have loved ones, students, colleagues, friends on both sides of the issue and I don't know what to do or think or feel anymore. I wish we could move past it but everyone, including myself, is so personally invested. We've all been hurt and offended by so much, it's really hard to move forward and hard to know how to, when the passionate feelings about the issue still reside within all of us. I don't regret my actions, or the decisions I made, but it feels like a lot has changed and I don't know what to do with that, and I do regret all the hurt going around for everyone. I'm tired, really tired, and just sad about the whole thing.

We WON!

2008-11-05T20:26:00.003-05:00

Last night, some friends and I met for dinner and to watch the election results together. We sat on the edges of our seats as decision after decision was made and, although we were were dismayed with what, of course, seemed an inevitable presidential outcome, we were thrilled with the passing of Prop 8!

I realize many do not see it this way, but I see this as a great success for democracy, freedom, and the rights of everyone. That fact that four judges overturned the will of 61% of the people in the first place, and that activists then decided to go ahead and prepare curriculum teaching gay marriage to children of all ages in schools without consent of parents was in direct opposition to the ideals this country is supposed to stand for. Through civil unions, same-sex couples retain all of the legal rights married couples are entitled to but, with this victory, religious institutions are able to also retain their rights to free speech, freedom of religion, and parents have the right to teach their children according to their own values.

I'm aware that these activists will not quit and that, at some point in time, they may find a way to get the supreme court to undo our decision but, regardless, we have fought for our freedoms and the people's will was heard. I love this country and hope its citizens will recognize and be grateful for the many blessings we enjoy while living here!

God bless the USA!

Another can of worms...

2008-11-04T03:58:00.002-05:00

Opponents of prop 8 will air a new advertisement tomorrow, but have stooped to new lows with their current ad. As if it wasn't enough that supporters of prop 8 are being called bigots, evil, and comparable to racists during the civil rights movement, they have now posed a direct attack on The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

In what can only be summed up as hateful, desperate, slanderous and offensive, this advertisement shows two LDS missionaries invading a same-sex couple's home and laughing as they talk about what to ban next.

I'm not sure why I'm shocked, but I am. It never ceases to amaze me that an organization filled with people who are constantly striving to help others, while doing their best to meet high standards of love and kindness, are consistently attacked and labeled with hurtful and, often, blatantly untruthful names.

Perhaps, to some, it may be difficult to understand how a person could disagree with the way another lives, try to protect their children from ideals they see as incorrect and, at the same time, love that person and care very deeply for them and their happiness. I have some very dear friends who are homosexuals, and the thought that my participation in this campaign might be hurtful to them does make me sad, but it doesn't change what I believe is right. I do respect that other people disagree with me and I also respect their right to voice their opinion and to vote "no", and I don't believe they're evil because of it. I wish others could show me that same courtesy...

Prop 8

2008-10-10T03:30:00.002-05:00

Dear friends and family,

I haven't been blogging much lately, and I'm not sure how soon that will change (my schedule still seems to be swallowing me whole), but this is an issue which is pretty important to me and, even though I'm hesitant to speak out for fear of backlash, I can't be silent about something so important to me.

As I'm sure you all know, I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and, as such, believe marriage is ordained by God and is sacred. I believe families are central to our Heavenly Father's plan for His children and that His plan is one designed to bring about happiness, salvation, peace, and eternal life if we choose to live by God's laws. The gospel I believe in is, in large part, responsible for the person I am and want to be- it is the reason I strive to love and be patient with those whom I might otherwise treat unkindly. It is the reason I do my best to be honest, ethical, to serve others and tend to their needs. My beliefs are centered in love and I strive daily, despite my imperfections and inevitable failings, to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ- to love God and to love my fellow man.

Just a few years ago, 61% of the population of California voted to define marriage as specifically between one woman and one man. Recently, 4 judges overturned that decision and made same-sex marriage possible in California. As a result, Proposition 8 has been placed on the ballot for November. It is a proposition to amend the constitution to define marriage as between one man and one woman, and I am kindly requesting that you consider voting yes with me.

Now, let me be crystal clear. While I do not believe homosexual relationships to be part of God's plan for His children, and support strongly the idea of marriage between a man and a woman, I also do not believe, as many religion critics assume, that homosexuals are evil, destined for hell, or anything like this. Also, in reserving the term "marriage" for one man and one woman, same-sex couples do not lose any legal rights otherwise afforded by marriage. Under California law,it specifically states that “domestic partners shall have the same rights, protections, and benefits” as married spouses (Family Code § 297.5.). There are no exceptions and proposition 8 does not change this in any way.

If any of you would like more information on any of this, or have any questions or comments, I'm happy to hear them- you're welcome to email me (jlimutau@gmail.com) if you don't feel comfortable with this oh-so-public forum and I sincerely respect everyone's view point. This blog is meant to inform, and as a plea for you to simply consider voting yes. In these troubled times, I think the most important thing is that we each take the time to figure out what we believe in, what we stand for, and that we do our best to support those beliefs- I'm doing my best to do just that.

With love,
Jacosa

Yes, I know.

2008-09-12T04:40:00.002-05:00

It's been a LONG time since I blogged. There's no excuse, except that I've been busy. Busy, busy, busy. Nowadays, that's my answer for everything- Dinner tonight? Nope, busy. Finished your homework? Nope, busy. How's life? BUSY!

Tonight, I'm pretty frustrated, so blogging is in order (I thought my friends might not be so pleased if I called them at 3am to whine). After an extremely stressful couple of weeks, and a balancing act such as I have never performed, I feel like a failure.

My class at ARC has been canceled. This actually saves me a lot of work in the long run, but I nearly killed myself scrounging up enough people for the class (we started with 4, and needed 22- we got 21) and juggling rehearsal and performance dates between both schools to make everyone happy. More than anything, I feel like I've let people down and that's a terrible feeling.

I'm overwhelmed with my masters program. I want to quit SO bad, I've been on the verge almost every day for the past two weeks. Losing the class at ARC diminishes my desire pretty significantly. At this point, I'm sticking with it out of sheer stubbornness. I hate to quit.

We had back-to-school night tonight where 90% of the parents seemed really happy with my teaching, but the other 10% just wanted to know how their child could possibly be failing a vocal class- easy- they're not doing the work. But, of course, that's my fault. Still, I have this need-to-please-want-to-say-yes complex, and I feel like it IS my fault, when I know it's not. Sigh. Wanna go back to Mexico...

Actually, I need to blog about that. ;D More later!

The latest...

2008-06-15T11:51:00.003-05:00

After a LONG semester, I'm done! Two months off! I'm so excited, I can barely stand it! I have big plans for camping, kayaking, trips to the beach, hanging by the pool, reading, and even a trip to Mexico with some girlfriends to Dreams Los Cabos Suites Golf Resort and Spa- All-inclusive. Rahooooo!

My vacation will be somewhat less relaxing than planned, however, because I was just asked to head up the vocal department at Natomas Charter Performing and Fine Arts Academy, starting this fall. I'm overwhelmed at the work ahead of me, but very honored and excited that they would trust me with this job! I'm looking forward to the coming year!

I may be addicted

2008-06-02T04:03:00.003-05:00

to this.

When the summer months hit, I usually want nothing to do with most food and everything to do with soda, juice, smoothies, milkshakes, basically anything cold and flavored that I can get my hands on. But I have to say it's a whole different ball game when it comes to diet vanilla pepsi (don't be upset, coke lovers- I would probably be just as passionate about diet vanilla coke, were the coke people smart enough to keep it around). I'm aware that it's horrible for me and I don't care. This obsession is such that, after a bad day, drinking one of these can produce an audible sigh and feelings of euphoria that make me feel like all is good and right in the world.

Um, hello, my name is Jacosa... and I'm an addict.

Ouch! It hurts!!!

2008-05-25T01:56:00.002-05:00

I just spent an insane amount of money to repair the display on my Mac. I keep trying to tell myself that this repair has been coming for over two years, that it's a miracle the display lasted this long (I was a bad Mac owner in the beginning and dropped it three times!), that it's cheaper than a new one and I can't live without one, and that it actually cost me $500 less than I thought it would, but still... OUCH!

Meanwhile, go see Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian. Good stuff.

On the other hand, DO NOT rent PS I Love You. Cheap shots for serious tear-jerking and an all-around downer. Two thumbs down. PS I hated it.

Can I kick her now? Now? How about now?

2008-05-20T02:03:00.003-05:00

There's this chick I know and there are many things in her personality which I am not a fan of but I try really hard to be nice to her, despite my better judgment.

But, after tonight, we may be done.

We had a going away BBQ for our bishopric. One of my roommates was in charge, and asked me to sing a song that one of the members of the bishopric had asked me to sing months ago- you know, a last request of sorts. Now, let me be clear that I love to sing, and am always willing to do so, especially when it comes to church functions. However, I NEVER volunteer myself/beg/plead/request to be part of programs. In fact, sometimes it'd be nice to sit back and watch everybody else run around setting up sound equipment and making sure everything's all ready to go. Still, I happily started setting up the equipment for a few speakers lined up to speak, as well as another musical number in addition to mine.

The girl was standing right behind me and loudly and sarcastically said, "Oh, great, someone's singing again." It took pretty much everything in me not to whip her with a mic cord, but I restrained myself.

I'm angry but, more than anything, it hurts my feelings. I'm aware that not everyone has to like my music, but I was setting up equipment for more than just me, and singing for someone else, not to put the spotlight on myself.

Boo on her. Mean people are lame.

BTW

2008-05-16T04:03:00.002-05:00

I was boring myself with the layout and lack of tunes- enjoy the changes!

Per Francesca's request

2008-05-16T02:05:00.002-05:00

So, here's the latest:

I just finished the semester at ARC- not sure whether I'm coming back in the fall. Depends on whether they want me back, depends on how hectic my schedule ends up being, we'll see. But our final concert went really well and I'm very proud of my students' progress. They've really been wonderful to work with!

I have a break at BU until mid July- thank GOODNESS! This program is kicking my behind. Good for me, but oh-so-tedious and time-consuming. Makes my brain hurt- literally.

I love teaching at the charter school. I won't go into details, but there's been a lot of drama this semester, and I don't mean the theater department. Suffice it to say that changes have been/are being made and egos have been bruised but that, despite that, the students just completed a two week run of Fiddler On the Roof and are preparing for two more concerts before the school year ends. They're good kids and really enjoyable to work with!

I was just invited to be part of an advisory board which helps determine which shows will be put on in the new theater, which is quite an honor for me and thrills me more than I can say. There are some pretty exciting shows in the works, and we're trying to put together a great season for the community to come and be a part of next year.

Meanwhile, I've had a hankering for a tropical vacation like you would not believe. It won't go away. I may just have to make it happen. Hmmmm...

Bittersweet

2008-03-26T11:59:00.004-05:00

As of tonight, I will have two jobs, rather than three. The people I nanny for are in need of someone more full-time and permanent, and it's just a no-can-do for me. They were really considerate about it and have tried to move heaven and earth to work with my insane schedule, but it was bound to end sometime. They've found a great nanny to replace me and we'll be sure to keep in touch as well.

It's actually a great thing- my schedule has been insane, I feel like I'm barely hanging on in grad school, and I can't devote much time or attention to anything really. The money was nice, but mostly extra, and it will be great for the baby to have someone more long-term and consistent, so the only issue is me missing him. And, for that reason, I'm sad. I'll get over it and things really are for the best, but I'm sad...

Rahoooo!

2008-03-15T20:58:00.002-05:00

Two of my dear friends from Boston, Laurel and Cheryl, are living in Mountain View with their husbands, and I drove down to have lunch with them today. It was the PERFECT way to spend today. We had great conversation and Cheryl assured me that I'm not crazy or stupid because I can't figure out this lame article I have to write about. Laurel was cute as can be with her pregnant self, and it was really great to catch up with them. Lunch was great, the company was fabulous and I can't wait for the next time!

Thanks for the good times, girls! =D

I can't help but be entertained...

2008-02-25T06:46:00.002-05:00

So, some girlfriends and I got the brilliant idea to have a leap year party this Friday- any excuse to have a party, right? Well, we weren't sure exactly what you do at a leap year party, so I did some research...

Rewind a few hours and my roommates and I are sitting around discussing our day, while complaining about some of the commitment/matrimony-phobic men in our ward.

Now, for the good part. Here's what I found about leap year:
As the story goes, the tradition of women romantically pursuing men in leap years began in 5th century Ireland, when St. Bridget complained to St. Patrick about the fair sex having to wait for men to propose. Patrick finally relented and set February 29 aside as the day set aside allowing women the right to ask for a man's hand in marriage.

The tradition continued in Scotland, when Queen Margaret declared in 1288 that on February 29 a woman had the right to pop the question to any man she fancied. Menfolk who refused were faced with a fine in the form of a kiss, a silk dress, or a pair of gloves given to the rejected lady fair.

So wait, to be clear, what we're saying is that I could propose to Wentworth and, if rejected, at least get a free dress out of the deal? Or, perhaps better yet and definitely more realistic, my roommates and I could scare the begeebers out of some poor sap in the ward, under the guise of leap year tradition??? It's all too delicious.

Three cheers for leap year!

It's pathetic, really.

2008-02-19T02:05:00.003-05:00

It all started innocently enough.

I went to my friend, Heather's for a "Prison Break" marathon. Two seasons later, and only two weeks later, I'm hooked- on the story line, and on this man (Wentworth Miller aka Michael Scofield) and have already scouted out where to get my next fix from- iTunes has season 3! Bless you, iTunes!

Now, part 2- I've been sick and bed-ridden for a few days. This would have been painfully boring, except I remembered a book series my sister and some friends had been begging me to start for awhile now- Twilight. It's about a vampire and this ridiculously impossible love story and I couldn't imagine that I would fall prey to the obsession so many others seemed to have fallen into. Still, I started the series, using none other than Wentworth Miller for my hero/vampire- he's better than anything I could come up with.

Well, long story short, I have indeed joined the ranks. I'm not sure if it was Wentworth, or the story, or the lethal combination of the two, but I'm in. All in. Sign me up for the Can't-wait-for-the-next-book/movie/TV show/anything-to-do-with-Twilight-or-Wentworth club!

Sigh. This is embarrassing.

How things are going

2008-02-04T03:57:00.000-05:00

Quick update:

The nanny job is great- love the family I work for, love hanging out with a fun baby, all is well!

The charter school- LOOOOOVE it! Although it's slowly eating away at any free time I thought I'd have this semester, I really do love it! The kids are so great to work with. It's kind of the dream job I never dreamed of having.

ARC- Still going strong! Budget cuts made it so that, if enrollment was not high enough in my class, it would be cut. So far, we've got enough people and the ensemble is sounding wonderful and off to a great start!

Grad school- oh dear. What have I gotten myself into?! The class I'm taking right now is kicking my behind. Just have to make it through and pray the rest aren't like this!

All in all, it's crazy and wonderful and stressful and fabulous and everything in between! What can I say, it's the truth...

At the end of the day...

2008-01-28T20:32:00.000-05:00

...the ONE thing I wanted to accomplish today- my paper- is nowhere near being accomplished. I have managed to respond to several emails that needed tending to, prep for my classes this week, and even printed out a cleaning schedule (with illustrations!) for me and my roommates! Basically, I did everything I possibly could to avoid writing this blasted paper. And now it's come to this: blogging, my ultimate I'd-rather-do-anything-than-what-I'm-actually-supposed-to-be-doing activity.

I keep thinking, "Jacosa, just write the stupid paper and get it over with!", but then I remember- I really need to send out invites to that party... or paint my nails... or blog.

Ridiculous.

Merry (late) Christmas and HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2008-01-02T01:58:00.000-05:00

Dear loved ones,

Well, here's my sad little attempt at late New Years wishes, even later Christmas wishes and a bit of an update. If you've been keeping up with my blog, you're probably more up to date than you want to be! If not, here's a little summary of this past year:

The first part of 2007 brought about the addition of two new nieces, who are both a joy to be around!

Jada Aria:
Maile Mei:

My first cd release followed (shameless plug: it's available at cdbaby.com/cd/jacosa), as well as graduation from Berklee and, subsequently, the sad move from Boston.

I'm not sure I can fully express how much I LOVED living in Boston, the times I shared with very dear friends I met there, the things I learned and the things I got to see and experience while living there. Sometimes it feels like it was all a dream, but I've got pictures to prove it! Pictures of jam sessions late into the evening, beautiful fall and spring days, Lilac Sunday (as heavenly as it sounds), walking through Harvard square after church, watching the inspiring runners during the marathon, trips to Vermont, NY and the Berkshires, snowball fights, snow days where school or church was canceled, walks through the public gardens during all the seasons, duck tours, concerts, Sunday dinners, whale watching. I could go on forever and, with each memory, comes a little sadness that it's over and a lot of gratitude that I experienced it.

Here's a favorite picture with good friends, Jarrick and Melba. I miss the snow- even the 45 minute train ride and 15 minute walk to church don't sound so bad!

Fall and spring were gorgeous in Boston- really, breathtaking!

Here's a few girlfriends on a beautiful spring day- I think we were picnicking in between conference sessions, if I remember right.

The summer brought the move from Boston and a myriad of plans which included a move to Long Beach (to gig), a move to Utah (to teach), a serious consideration to run away to an island and quit everything, and finally settled on spending more time in Sacramento than anticipated. I was offered a job teaching at American River College as well as a nanny job and was soon accepted into Boston University's distance learning program, to work on a Master of Music Education.

Although my plans for gigging have not worked out for the time being, I find myself at peace with the plan changes and sure that I am where I need to be for now. I was recently hired to start teaching at the performing arts academy here and am loving each of the things I spend my time doing, as well as the added perk of having made some wonderful new friends in addition to the wonderful old friends I have here, and getting to spend a lot of time with my family.

The whole family, minus Kenji, hard worker that he is!

Now, for some accountability. Here are my resolutions/plans for 2008:
1. Continue my never-ending battle with nutrition and exercise. Slow and steady wins the race, right?
2. Learn to play the guitar- so much easier to carry around than a piano...
3. Travel somewhere I've always wanted to- my vote: Italy!
4. Keep plugging away at finding gigs as well as writing and arranging music.
5. Become a better person, in general, through service and scripture study.

I hereby give you all permission to harass me about accomplishing these things. Encouragement goes a long way... as does peer pressure!

I look forward to the upcoming year, and to seeing what additional twists and turns life has in store. I hope each of you are happy, healthy and that you enjoyed wonderful holidays with loved ones. Please know that I think of and pray for each of you, and that I am grateful for each one of you in my life.

With love,
Jacosa

If I hold it in, I may explode!

2007-12-27T06:06:00.000-05:00

Here's my rant for the day:

Tonight, as usual, I was "matched up" with the only Polynesian guy in my ward. I have no complaints against him. He seems like a nice enough guy.

And yet, this frustrates me.

Here's why: Other than our skin color, how does anyone know that we have anything in common? Furthermore, it may interest some readers to know that I have very little in common with a huge majority of the Polynesian men I meet. Nothing against them, or myself, for that matter, it just seems to be the way it goes. And yet, inevitably, every time there's a halfway decent, single, Polynesian guy around, people feel the need to match us up like a little card game, and never give a thought to matching me up with any other guy of any other ethnicity. This reminds me of a conversation with a girl one time, where she said, upon meeting me, "You're so beautiful! Most people think Polynesians are unattractive, but you're really pretty!" How do you respond to that? Is it a compliment, or an insult, or just a lovely mixture of the two? Is it completely impossible for a man of any other ethnicity to find me attractive, or for us to have something in common? Why can't it be about whether our personalities and goals and standards match, rather than our skin tones?

I know it's the way the world works, but sometimes this world is so very lame.

Like I said, it frustrates me. How's that for honesty?

Sheeeeeeesh!

2007-12-15T05:36:00.001-05:00

I hereby call upon everyone who knows ANYTHING about music or just knows how to hunt things down to find me this recording. I've loved this song for years (don't knock it!), and can't seem to find it anywhere but youtube. HELLLLLLP! (David, I know you can do it- pull out that handy dandy little iPhone and help your sister!) ;D

Cue applause

2007-12-15T02:25:00.000-05:00

OK, you don't really have to clap, I'm just excited because I've finished my first semester of grad school, my first semester teaching, and have secured another job, teaching at the Natomas Performing Arts Academy, starting in January!

I'm keeping the nanny job, mostly because I feel needed and I really like my job, but I'll be working less hours, which is great- the baby will get to spend more time with his mom, I'll have time to pursue some other things, and I'll still get to go on walks and play with an adorable baby a few times a week.

What I've discovered:

From teaching-
Teachers really do learn from their students, and teaching is HARD! The great thing: It's equally rewarding. The performing arts school will be a whole different ballgame, but I'm so excited, I can barely stand it!

From grad school-
Writing for five-part horns is hard and online schooling is weird and challenging.

From nannying-
When the time comes for me to have kids, I believe raising them will be the hardest, most joyful, most stressful, most wonderful thing I'll ever do.

From my life, this year-
Life takes twists and turns we never, ever thought it would. If we're trying to do our best and trust in a loving Heavenly Father, those twists and turns will turn out to be even more wonderful than we had hoped.

Well, if this isn't the sweetest...

2007-12-13T03:59:00.001-05:00

This kid called in to some Christian radio show and this is his conversation with the host, which was made into a video and posted on youtube. What a sweetie...

Okay, I ADMIT it!

2007-12-01T04:09:00.000-05:00

I'm SUCH a sucker for the holidays. I turned on the radio the other day (because my iPod is, once again, broken- for real this time, Ray, it's charged and everything!) and they were playing Christmas songs. If it's possible for a heart to leap, mine did. I rarely listen to Y92, but I can't drag myself away from all the Christmas music. So, there's my confession.

And there's more to it...

I watched the movie "White Christmas" while I was making the stuffing on Thanksgiving day. It's my philosophy that the holidays start on the day after Halloween, since Thanksgiving and Christmas are really all sort of wrapped up in one so, technically, Christmas music and movies are fair game after October 31st. Just go with it, the logic makes sense in my brain. Anyway, I'm all about Christmas carols, silly traditions, long drives to look at Christmas lights, holiday plays and concerts, getting your tree up the day after Thanksgiving, multiple showings of White Christmas and It's a Wonderful Life while baking holiday treats, I LOVE it all!

So I've been thinking about that and why it is that I love everything about Christmas, (including the shopping- I usually hate shopping! Go figure...) I think I've figured out what it is. I love that, for an entire month (two months, if you're like me), we celebrate, on a very large scale, a holiday that is completely centered on Christ. Of course, not everyone sees it that way, but I guess that's why it holds so much beauty for me. All these songs, all the decorations and gift giving and baking and charity, it's all literally in the name of Christ... or, if you like, Christmas.

I'm grateful for that.

I anticipated this week being a really difficult one because of a pretty hectic schedule but, with a little planning and a lot of prayer, it has turned out to be a very special and enjoyable week where I've learned a lot, taught a little, and have been enriched by many different people and experiences. So I hope each of you are also having a fabulous start to the holidays and that, at some point during this month, you take some time to reflect on the blessings in your life, whatever your faith, and give thanks and give back, in whatever capacity you're able.

Merry Christmas!

Thanksgiving

2007-11-26T01:27:00.000-05:00

I'm so behind in my blogging! I've gotten lazy about uploading pics and it's been downhill from there... I'll try to do better!

Thanksgiving was wonderful- my whole family was there for a big Thanksgiving feast at my parents'. Dinner was delicious and the company, of course, great as well. It's far from quiet, but we have a good time!

All the girls (minus a few) in the kitchen. Notice Jada's new cheesy smile. She loves the camera!
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The boys get dinner started. Our cousin, Steven, joined us as well!

Katrina and Maile share some smiles:

After dinner, it was movies and naps for all!

Fun day- good food and great to be with my family! I've been home for every Thanksgiving, even when I was living in Boston, but it was still special to be with them this year. My family is really a blessing in so many ways and just fun to be around. I still haven't figured out what in the world I'm doing here in Sac or how long I'll be here, but I'm really enjoying all the quality family time I get! I'll enjoy it while I can! Thankful for that!

If these aren't the cutest kids...

2007-11-17T04:25:00.000-05:00

Here's a pic of my darling nieces and nephews, on Halloween. A Wiggle (Greg???), a butterfly, Thomas the Train, a bee, and a cat. Why would I bother dressing up- who can compete???

To sway you more...

2007-10-30T23:44:00.001-05:00

Bella

2007-10-30T23:37:00.001-05:00

Go see this movie- so sweet...

Apple Hill

2007-10-13T02:13:00.000-05:00

These are pics from a recent trip to Apple Hill. It's a magical place where you find pretty much anything you could ever want made from apples- apple pie, turnovers, donuts, fritters, candied apples, carmel apples, apple empanadas... plus, there's lots of things to do and see- every year, my family always goes the day after Thanksgiving, to cut down Christmas trees- it's basically the best place ever! Heather, Rachel, Ang and I decided to kick off the fall with a drive up to apple hill and way too many treats!

Checking out the wolf they had there- just trust me- it's behind us, I swear!

In the apple tree grove (is that what it's called???)

Cute girls- Rachel, Ang and Heather enjoying the weather (I didn't even try to make that rhyme...)

It doesn't suck to BU (or me)...

2007-10-12T12:00:00.000-05:00

I've been accepted to Boston University's Master of Music Education distance learning program! No, unfortunately, it doesn't mean I'm coming back to Boston. :( All of the classes and work are online, in books, and at my teaching job at American River College. But it does mean I get to participate in an awesome program with amazing classes from a great school! It was the only program I wanted to get into, because their program incorporates African, American and Jazz music into their cirriculum- perfect for me and, of course, I can do it anywhere! I'm excited to start what will inevitably be a ridiculously crazy schedule, since I'm already working two jobs. But, as my mom always said, there's no rest for the wicked. ;D

Please Mr. Postman!

2007-09-26T16:25:00.000-05:00

EVERYDAY, right after I've gotten the baby to that stage of sleep that's not quite deep enough to be totally out, the mailman comes by and slams the mail through the mail slot (numerous times, since it can't all fit in at the same time), where it then drops on the hardwood floor, making a loud THUMP as it crashes and scatters about, waking up one tired little baby. I appreciate mail people (rain and sleet and snow and all that- I get it) and I appreciate mail, of course. It's the timing. Is there NO other time he can come??? Grrrr....

Random highlights from the summer...

2007-09-25T02:09:00.000-05:00

Kingston's first soccer game. If you've never seen a bunch of four-year-olds play soccer, you're missing out. Easily one of the cutest things I've ever seen!

Katrina, Maile and Jaycee on their way to an 80's party. Maile's rockin' the Olivia Newton-John "Physical" video look. Adorable!

Jaycee, Mariana, Jada and Ang took me to brunch for my birthday at Crepeville, one of my new favorite places! If I squint my eyes and have a good imagination, I can almost convince myself I'm in Boston when I'm there! ;D

This day was as perfect as it looks. Off to a rocky start, we had to change to a different beach at the last minute, but got lucky and found this little gem. The weather was gorgeous and it was the most relaxing, beautiful day I think I've experienced this summer.

A pic from my unfortunate tubing trip (refer to earlier blog), before the river chewed me up and spit me out on its bank. (OK, I'm being dramatic- it was slightly less traumatic than that... but only slightly.)

More later!

And another

2007-09-25T02:00:00.003-05:00

For Melba

2007-09-25T02:00:00.001-05:00

Here ya go...

We have a winner!

2007-09-21T02:56:00.000-05:00

I have been asked often (among many other random questions), by my dear friend, Melba, what I think the best love song is and I never have an answer. How can you choose something like that? It changes constantly and there are so many songs from so many genres to choose from. That's a hard question!

But tonight, I discovered it- the best love song. Or maybe it's just the best performer of love songs... I don't know- no matter. Point is, I finally have an answer: "Leaving/In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning" by Kurt Elling. He wrote poetry (not lyrics, poetry, my friends) to an improvised Keith Jarrett solo, then ingeniously combined it with "In the Wee Small Hours". It is musical perfection. A reviewer said this: Kurt’s poetry on this one is in a word; breathtaking. It speaks on the inevitable ending of things. The act of leaving. The hours before having to bid farewell to loved ones that, sadly, the more beautiful the moment is, the more deadly. Elling seamlessly mixes this with the curve of the Earth in all its dramatic, larger than any human life’s glory. But it is the ending of things that looms over all… no matter nature’s pageantry. Loss, consuming all moments as its own. As the intro’s ending fades into a linear blackness of bottom end chords accompanied by the unwaveringly single noted resign of Elling’s vocal, pianist, Laurence Hobgood begins this beautiful, skeletal version of “In The Wee Small Hours”. I’ve listened to this moment at least twenty times and have yet to make it through it without boo-hooing like a baby. Not only for the truth of it. It’s the sheer excellence of this historic accomplishment that moves me. To have crafted a moment in time so perfect.

He sings with such sensitivity, gentleness and emotion, it gives me chills and brings tears to my eyes. I often have to catch my breath after listening to one of his ballads, it's THAT good! Every note, every word, nothing is "throw-away". Lots of songs are pretty, even beautiful. But his ballads are gorgeous... Check him out, seriously.

Speaking of Kurt, my sweet friend, Ang, gave me tickets to his concert, for my birthday! I'm so excited, I can barely stand it!

Video of my most recent performance...

2007-09-18T03:00:00.000-05:00

I finally figured out how to compress this video and upload it to youtube... as you might guess, I'm not the most computer savvy person, so I'm feeling pretty accomplished at this late hour. Anyway, here it is- it features the amazing Joe Gilman on piano- enjoy!

NBC News covers the Jena 6 case

2007-09-15T11:55:00.001-05:00

This is important. I just learned of this case in Jena, Louisiana. The news actually does a pretty poor job of covering the facts, but you'll get the gist of it- I recommend you do your own research as well. This case harkens to the old cases involving racism in the south and it's appalling, at best. Please visit this website to add your voice to the many people outside of Jena who refuse to go back to the Jim Crow laws that make up an ugly part of our history: http://www.colorofchange.org/jena/?id=1802-373555

Incentive NOT to follow the crowd...

2007-09-03T02:27:00.001-05:00

BIG fun!

2007-09-01T05:27:00.000-05:00

Tonight, we went to the California State fair. I LOVE going to the fair! They do a spectacular job putting it on and it just seems to get better and better every year!

With the price of admission ($10) you also get to see the concerts they have on the big stage which, in the past, have been people like Boyz II Men, Kenny Loggins, Huey Lewis and the News, Chris Daughtry and, tonight, it was The Commodores. For those of you not up on your 70's music, they sing "Brick House", "Easy", "Sail On", "Still"... basically almost anything you think was sung by Lionel Richie. I mean, he sang it, but at the time, there was more than just Lionel, and the other guys are still around and kicking. Anyway, the point is that it's great!

First, we made the rounds in all the exhibits- artwork, "toytopia" and furs and feathers where we saw adorable, tiny little baby chicks. Then we made our way to the animals- I love to see the bulls- they scare me a little, though. The Lamas are cool too- goofy looking creatures- they make me laugh. After that, it was time for food in the haven that is the food avenue. Everything fried you could possibly ever want- Snickers, Oreos, artichokes, avocados (which sounds so disgusting, I can't even tell you...) I opted for Chinese food. We grabbed our food and headed for the hypnotist show. Now, I'm aware that most people don't believe in this but, I don't care what you say- it's real, and it's hilarious. It just is.

After that, we camped out on the lawn and watched The Commodores' show. Very cool!

Next, we looked at all the exhibits for the different counties in the state. In my New England nostalgia, I sometimes forget that California has some pretty cool places, too, so the displays were fun to see. We took pamphlets from all the booths, so we can plan out lots and lots of daytrips. Yahoooooo!

Finally, we stopped for dessert on the way out- Texas Donuts (you can probably guess- they're over-sized donuts- how could that EVER be bad?), and ended a night full of big fun!

Can't wait for next year! =D

Sweet success!

2007-08-28T14:59:00.001-05:00

As most of you know, I started a new nanny job a few weeks ago. Since then, the baby and I have been in a silent battle of sorts- he would like me to hold him while he sleeps and I would like to have my hands free for that hour.

It's not that it's not nice to hold him- he's sweet and there are few things I love more than holding a sleeping baby. But all day... ya know...

Anyway, he is now sleeping peacefully in his bed and I can't help but feel victorious in my own way. I'd probably do a cartwheel or shout congrats to myself, but there's no way I'm risking waking him. Instead, I'll just post my little accomplishment. I win!

Wait... he just woke up. Funny. Really funny. Fine, baby, you win.

They always do...

It's baaaaaack...

2007-08-24T04:28:00.000-05:00

I've had an ear infection for the last week. It hurt. Really, really bad. So I've been able to fall asleep (finally), I just couldn't stay asleep because I kept waking up in horrible pain.

Now the pain is gone. (Hoo. RAY!!!) I was excited to go to bed tonight and get one full, good night of rest, totally pain-free.

But now I can't sleep... again...

This is getting ridiculous.

Good day. Really good day...

2007-08-15T02:31:00.000-05:00

This...

is my new car! Well, new to me, anyway! I bought it today- it's perfect, to me. Good deal, drives well, plays my iPod, the color I wanted, I LOVE it!

Also, I got a job!!! I'll be nannying for a cute two-month old baby boy- decent pay and a great family to work for while I get through grad school. Awesome!

Lastly, I met with the dean at ARC today and got to see the newly remodeled theater and music department. Oh. Heaven. It's beautiful! Having the opporunity to work with faculty I think so highly of and get along so well with, in such a gorgeous place, and getting to make music all the while... it's like a dream!

These past few months have been a huge struggle- being jobless for months, worrying about bills, feeling like a failure and not knowing what to do with your life, all your plans changing constantly and not understanding why things aren't working out... it gets to you, you know? Letting go of my time in Boston was hard, too. I LOVED it there. I loved Berklee and I loved where I lived and the awesome experiences and friends I had. It was good for me in every way possible. So, coming from that, to a seemingly pointless, rootless, completely jobless existence- it was hard. Thankfully, I have a great family and some really wonderful friends who have been a strong support. They're priceless, those kinds of relationships. It's because of those people in my life that I am where I am, who I am, and that I made it through that tough time. All the kinks aren't yet worked out, but things are really looking up and coming along nicely.

So, tonight, even in my ongoing insomnia, I am feeling so very grateful for the people in my life. I believe Heavenly Father placed each one of them there to help me get through times like these (as well as to enjoy the good times together). I can only hope that I am half the strength to them that they are to me. Life is a gift and all the people in it, blessings. And THAT is something to be very, very grateful for... and I am.

*Fist in the air

2007-08-14T05:24:00.000-05:00

And the dogs barking and growling next door don't help.

What IS the deal?

2007-08-14T04:56:00.000-05:00

It's 3am and here I am, wide awake. I'm tired and my ear hurts. I don't know why.

I attempted to fall asleep right around midnight. That was 3, count them, one, two, three hours ago. I've spent the last three hours staring at the ceiling, trying to talk myself into unconsciousness. It's not working.

Saturday night, I was up until 5am. Same thing.

All I can say is, this is only gonna work for so long...

Another cool thing...

2007-08-12T04:27:00.000-05:00

I've just been asked to direct a vocal jazz ensemble at ARC, the community college I went to. Although I feel fairly confident, part of me feels like a child playing dress-up and that, at any moment, "Mom" will come home and scold me for trying to pretend to be more grown-up than I am and put me back in my place. It's weird, making the transition from student to professional...

Do you ever just look at your life and think, "How, HOW did I GET here???"

That's me. Right now.

How???

How cool is this???

2007-08-12T02:25:00.000-05:00

Megan gave me grief tonight about not updating my blog and this is definitely blog-worthy, so here goes...

Sally Deford is an LDS songwriter who is awesome enough to write beautiful songs and arrangements for soloists, choirs, etc. and puts them on her website for free downloading. I've always admired her work, the time she puts into the site, and often sing her songs when I'm asked to sing in church. Some favorites, for the record: My Grateful Spirit Sings, It Was for Me, I Have Not Seen Yet I Believe, My Father's Love For Me, Beautiful Savior (for SSA), and a piano solo that's name is escaping me at the moment. Shame.

Anyway, being a fan of her work, I emailed her for music advice. One thing lead to another and I wound up singing a few songs for her website. I still have to pinch myself every time I get an email from her...

So, the point of this blog- here's the site: http://www.defordmusic.com/new.htm. Hope you like the tracks!

Happy, Megan?

Tag, you're it!

2007-07-24T02:33:00.000-05:00

I got a comment from Katrina's neighbor, Jenn, tagging me- fun! It's taken me awhile but better late than never, right?

Here's what I have been "tagged" to do:
1. I have to post these rules before I give you the facts.
2. Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves.
3. People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight things and post these rules.
4. At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.
5. Don’t forget to leave them a comment telling them they have been tagged, and to read your blog.

Random Fact #1: I've never broken a bone, or been to the emergency room. (Knock on wood...)

Random Fact #2: I watch Father of the Bride II whenever I'm down. I usually fall asleep about 20 minutes in (it's not that great of a movie), but I love the opening credits. The music, the words, and especially all the "homey" scenes- a beautifully set dinner table with a home-cooked meal, family pictures everywhere, the hammock in the backyard and the beautiful white house on a quaint little street- it seems like that's what life should be like. Or at least what I wish it would be like sometimes...

Random Fact #3: I've always secretly wanted to be on Broadway. Characters I would LOVE to play: Eponine (Les Mis), Elphaba (Wicked), Millie (Thoroughly Modern Millie), Nala (Lion King), Sarah (Ragtime)

Random Fact #4: I smile when bad things happen. Must be a nervous reaction or something- I'm certainly not feeling happy, but the smile is there nonetheless. I used to get in trouble for it sometimes. Now it saves me on the stage...

Random Fact #5: I've never seen all the Star Wars movies OR Lord of the Rings. I have nothing against them, I just haven't felt a huge urge to watch them. Sue me.

Random Fact #6: I love watching BookTV on CSPAN2 and listening to talk radio. I love all the politics discussed. Sometimes I drive around for a few extra minutes after I've gotten to my destination just to hear the end of a radio show where there's a really good debate going on. Fight! Fight!! FIGHT!!! *raises fist in the air*

Random Fact #7: I hate gum. All the smacking and popping and chomping and when it's on the street or under a desk or chair. I don't like the smell, the taste, or what most people seem to do with it. Weird, huh?

Random Fact #8: Rats. I'm terrified of them. Mice are right up there too. I can handle spiders, snakes, but rats...can't do it. Disgusting little creatures.

Well, I hate to leave it on that less-than-desirable topic, but I'm all out of random facts for now. I'm gonna break the rules a little and just say that anyone who is reading this is now tagged.

Tag, YOU'RE IT!!!

Thanks, Jenn!

Ouch.

2007-07-23T02:29:00.000-05:00

We went tubing in Coloma on Saturday. Small tube + rapids = many bumps and bruises. My foot actually got caught between two rocks with my head partially under water in the middle of a rapid and, fearing death more than a broken ankle, I yanked my foot free, resulting in pain... pain in my ankle. It's bearable, and I can walk fine, I'm just whining because, really, none of my bruises are significant enough to get much sympathy.

But I hurt.

Everywhere.

It feels like my whole body got slammed against a wall, multiple times because, well, it did. Ouch.

One. Last. Post... for the night...

2007-07-14T05:08:00.001-05:00

These...

are some of my friends from my ward, growing up! Left to right: Rachel, Meghan, Stephanie, me and Ang. We hardly ever get to see each other anymore and I haven't seen Meghan for years, but we got together for dinner the other night and got to catch up. It was great to see them and I have many great memories with them all!

One of my favorites is that, once, we went and stayed at a ranch- it was so much fun- we danced and swam and rode horses and, of course, talked about all our boy drama. Teenagers! Anyway, I miss them and it was really nice to visit with them again... Hopefully we'll do it again soon!

Danalin's wedding

2007-07-14T04:57:00.000-05:00

My friends, Danalin and Mike, got married recently and I was lucky enough to witness the blessed event! =D It was at the Logan, UT temple and it was really beautiful!

Katie, Heather and me, waiting for the bride and groom to grace us with their presence:

Ta-da! In all their glory:

Me and Ang in the elevator, on the way to the reception. (What's she doing???)

My favorite picture of the day- doesn't she look lovely?!

Three cheers for Danalin and Mike! =D

Family Reunion

2007-07-14T04:42:00.000-05:00

I went to a family reunion a few weeks ago, in Idaho, which was lots of fun. My mom has 10 brothers and sisters, (if I'm counting right- it's late), so the whole affair is huge! Luckily, my grandparents live on a rather large farm with lots of running space for the kiddies and a river to play in too!

Friday night, we had a luau/talent show/program/karaoke party. I think it's safe to say good times were had by all...

Here's David, me, Katrina and Keva singing "In the Still of the Night", our old standby:

All the aunties attempting Tahitian dance. Thoroughly entertaining...

My cousin, Mapu, putting me to shame with his karaoke skills:

Grandma, Grandpa and my great Grandma saying goodnight. I think they're all pretty great!

Now this is just cute...

Change is good

2007-07-05T15:00:00.000-05:00

In what will likely be a vein attempt to make blogging more interesting for myself, I thought it was time for a change. We'll see if this one holds for awhile...

Maxine's Day

2007-07-05T11:29:00.000-05:00

I've been in Utah for a little over a week, for multiple things- I'm sure I'll blog about them all sooner or later. One of those things was for my cousin, Maxine's temple endowment. It was actually my first time meeting her in person and it was wonderful to be there for such a special occasion!

Outside the temple with Maxine, her mom (my aunt) and Maxine's friends:

Me and Maxine:

Maxine sings in the Divine Heritage choir, which is wonderful! They did a fireside Sunday night and had me sing right before them. It was an honor to sing at one of their performances and Melba and Nia came with me. Fun! We also ran into Alisha when we got there. Small world! =D

And the beat goes on...

2007-07-05T11:18:00.000-05:00

A few other goings-on:

This is Margaret. I do believe she's one of my favorite people in the entire world. Not only is she an amazing caterer, seamstress and mother, but she is one of the kindest, most giving people I know, TONS of fun to be around (because she's one of those people who just tells it like it is), and she even has a cool accent to go along with her cool personality. I haven't seen her for years and then, to my delight, I ran in to her at a reception last month. Hooray for getting back in touch with long-lost friends!

Here's a few pics from the graduation party Ang and my mom threw. It was lots of fun to see people I haven't for awhile and I got to sing a bit as well!

The display when people came in:

The spread: Yummmmmm....

Singin' (and the lovely centerpieces my mom put out):

My biggest patrons: (Lynne and Koki bought TEN cds! I think they're just taking pity on a struggling artist, but I'll take it... THANKS!)

More later...

Bored with blogging

2007-07-03T05:54:00.000-05:00

I think it all started as a silent rebellion against practicing and homework. Now that I don't have to (practice, that is- I mean, I need to but I don't have to), blogging has lost some of its appeal.

Also, I now live near most of the people who read my blog and just tell them in person. Takes the fun right out of it.

But most of all, when I read some others' blogs, it turns me off to the whole idea. I started mine mostly to keep family and friends updated, but hard-core bloggers make me insecure about my lamo little informational posts. They seem so intent on writing wannabe deep-thoughts while they brag about themselves and their self-declared brilliance. I'll admit, there are times I'm amused by it but, most of the time, it just annoys me. Sorry- it's the truth...

Still, I keep coming back and probably will, indefinitely.

Stay tuned for more posts. ;D

What I've been up to

2007-06-19T02:12:00.003-05:00

A little summary of the past month:

Graduation #4 for the year- Megan's (#1- Mine, #2 Melb's, #3 Syl's)

Graduation #5- Julie's

And last but surely not least, #6- James'

Congrats to all the graduates- what awesome friends and family I'm blessed to have!

The rest of my days have been filled with, (in addition to sending out resume after resume and scheduling interviews), leisurely days by the pool with friends (I know- I'm so picked on...), the Gladys Knight performance which was awesome (see entry below), parties, shopping, recently taking the CBEST test to begin working toward a teaching credential and, perhaps my very favorite, hanging with my family and playing with my cute nieces and nephews! Good times!

This Thursday, my family and Ang are throwing a graduation/cd release party and I'm so excited, I can barely stand it! Blog to follow...

OH. MY. GOODNESS!!!!!

2007-06-11T01:55:00.000-05:00

So, last night, Katrina, Ang, Lissette and I went to see Gladys Knight and her choir, at our church- FREE tickets to see GLADYS KNIGHT! Somehow, we got very lucky and landed in the center of the second row, right behind her! Oh heaven.

For some reason, I hadn't initially been all that excited about it, despite that- hello- she's a legend... But from the moment the band hit the first downbeat (yes, an actual band in an LDS chapel- fun!), I couldn't stop smiling! People of all different races and cultures gathered to hear songs testifying of Christ and, in a nutshell, love... beautiful. Cheesy, yes, but the feeling in the room- so joyful and uplifting- if you could bottle it, you'd make a fortune! It was fun being up close, too, because we could see her reactions to everything (especially when her husband spoke- funny man, very funny...) and hear her sing when she wasn't mic'd (sp?). She was everything she ought to be- graceful, charming, sincere, well-spoken, engaging and an effortless vocalist and performer. The student in me couldn't help analyzing her mic and vocal technique, how she achieved different effects with dynamics and pronunciation, the usual music nerd stuff. But the Gladys fan in me was just loving every moment of it!

So good. So, so, sooooo good!

At the end of the night, Ang and I commented that our cheeks hurt from smiling so much.

Good night! Good, good night!!!

A Birthday Dedication

2007-06-09T04:41:00.000-05:00

Yes, I realize this is my third blog for today, but it's been awhile and, looking at the date on the last one, I remembered that today is my sister, Katrina and her husband Kenji's birthday. They're the cute couple on the far left of the pic:

So, for this blog, I'll name some things I've noticed about them that I think are pretty cool.
1. Katrina is an amazing mom. Her children look at her with pure adoration, I'm not kidding. Just the look in their eyes makes it clear that they think the world of her. It's really sweet to see.
2. Kenji works hard- I mean really, really hard. I wish I had that kind of work ethic- I'd get so much done! He just does whatever he needs to, to provide for his family and I've never heard him complain. Amazing!
3. Their marriage is one that I really admire. Every time I see them, they speak to each other kindly, are considerate of the other's needs and support each other as partners and parents. If all marriages were like theirs, this world would be a lot better off!

Happy birthday, Katrina and Kenji! Love ya tons!

The Idiot's Guide to Talking to Single People

2007-06-09T04:07:00.000-05:00

After several run-ins with people from my past who's first and only question to me was, "Are you married yet?", followed by a look of disdain or disappointment with a hint of disgust following my answer, I've determined there ought to be a coffee table book on etiquette when talking to single people. This is pathetic, since we're just people and therefore should be talked to just like anyone else. We're not special cases, freaks of nature, less righteous, less attractive, intelligent, spiritual or normal than any married person. And yet, the need is there, my friends, it's there and it's real...

Things you should NOT say to a single person:
1. Why aren't you married yet?
2. You're still not married?
3. You're being too picky.
4. She got a degree because she wasn't married, so she had nothing better to do.
5. She put school in front of marriage, that's why she's single.
6. Ohhhhh, THAT'S why she's single! (Upon finding out something unfavorable about a single person)
7. Hurry up [and get married]!

What it all boils down to: LAY OFF! We know we're single- we're well aware of it and we don't need people picking us apart, analyzing what's wrong with us and sharing their disapproval of our life choices. Judge ye not...

Whew, OK, thanks for bearing with my rant for the day. =D Carry on...

Just for Bryce...

2007-06-09T04:02:00.000-05:00

Bryce- uhhhh, I don't have your email add, so blogging it is! Thanks for the congrats! FYI, the cd's back in stock on cdbaby. No worries about hanging out- things happen, ya know? I hope to visit Boston sometime in the not too distant future, so we'll all have to get together! =D

Cuteness

2007-06-01T12:33:00.001-05:00

Tell me this doesn't brighten your day...

Just because

2007-05-31T02:38:00.000-05:00

Because, even though it's fun being near my family and friends here, I miss my room, Boston, and my Boston friends (including Mike, of course)... and because this picture makes me happy:

That's all.

How to purchase my cd...

2007-05-28T02:47:00.000-05:00

Hello again!

For anyone who hasn't already gotten an email of some sort, my cd is available for purchase at http://cdbaby.com/cd/jacosa. Right now, it's out of stock, but it will soon be in stock and, until then, perhaps the samples on the website can tide you over. There's also a place to give your email address so they can email you when it's back in stock! Enjoy!

Cheers!!!

It's weird here.

2007-05-26T01:55:00.001-05:00

Ummmm... I'm not sure what to do with myself. I don't have a job yet and nothing, absolutely nothing about my situation is permanent. I'm here in Sac with my friend, Ang, who is kind enough to let me mooch off of her for an indefinite amount of time.

This is not a good feeling to me.

I don't like to mooch and I don't like sitting around. I'm one of those people who likes lists and schedules and checking things off my little lists and being busy from dawn 'til dusk. It brings me joy to look at my planner and see lots of little events and times scribbled throughout the month, but it's been sitting here, gathering dust, other than the occasional dinner or, as of late, graduation. The fact that I've seen soap operas this week disturbs me. I'm all caught up on American Idol, So You Think You Can Dance and Dancing With the Stars, even though I loathe that show... I've read a few books, done some pointless shopping, worked out and sent out about a billion resumes. This is my life right now.

It's weird.

P.S.

2007-05-19T07:53:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Melba and her Uncle Puna for the gorgeous leis! So, so beautiful! I got many, many compliments on them. Thank-you soooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much!

The big day

2007-05-18T23:38:00.001-05:00

Graduation was fun- surreal, but fun! My parents and good friend, Ang were in town for it and the whole thing was wonderful!

Andrew Hill, U2's The Edge and Gloria and Emilio Estefan were there to receive honorary doctorates. Gloria Estefan spoke and I really enjoyed hearing from her. She talked about following your heart and not letting other people tell you what you should do and it was exactly what I needed to hear. The Edge also spoke when he received his degree and talked about being brave enough to follow your own path and not everyone else's. It was great to hear! Good day...

In all my glory (with my parents), funny hat and all:

When all is said and done...

2007-05-18T23:16:00.000-05:00

I just got my grades- thankfully, I will indeed be getting an actual degree certificate to replace the lovely fake one in my pretty little Berklee certificate holder! Here's the final tally:

Conducting: A
Pop Song Transcription: A
Pop/Rock/Country Styles Lab: A
Vocal Sight Reading Techs: A
Advanced Vocal Performance Lab: A
Western Civ: A
Art History: A
Final Project Seminar: A
Private Instruction: A

Now, get this. Somatic Breathwork: B

I have beef. With my Somatic Breathwork professor. I'm convinced he reads this blog, and held my last entry against me.

Let me tell you why: In this class, we lay on the floor and listen to our own breathing, paying attention to different things the teacher says to. How, please tell me HOW you can get a B in a class such as this?!?! You lay there and BREATHE! I'm not trying to be egotistical or anything, but I'm really, really good at this. I do it often- every night, in fact. Now, I've never been one of those people who throws a fit about a B. But come on, I know how to breathe. Sheesh!

Anyway, bygones- I have my degree!

So.... I'm done?

2007-05-09T18:39:00.000-05:00

At 5pm today, I walked to my last class to turn in a paper. As I walked through downtown Boston, taking in the beautiful weather, my graduation gown in my bag, I thought of how anticlimactic the moment was...

The class I was heading to was one of my least favorite, where the teacher barely knows me, and the paper was a pretty heartless one, written to hurry up and finish a course I felt was basically a waste of my time. I felt such a high, leaving my last final a few hours before. I felt good about the paper I turned in, and I felt pretty confident about the in-class essay I wrote on some artwork by Degas. After that class, I felt the way I thought I should have felt then- victorious, proud and very, very happy.

I turned in my paper and left to pick up my cds, which are (after many a delay) totally and completely done, shrink-wrap and all! And still, there was that nagging sad feeling. The only thing I can compare it to is a huge performance. You work really long and hard and put so much of yourself into it and then- wham- it's over. It's SUCH a high, the performance, but such a low afterwards. That's kind of how it felt today- like I should feel happy and excited and relieved, but really, I'm sad the journey's over. What's that thing people say about joy in the journey and all of that? Well, I certainly had my moments of stress and frustration, but I did find joy in this journey, and lots of it.

It's a relief to finally be at the end of the road, but it's bittersweet for me. This move was a growing experience for me, in every aspect of my life and, despite exciting things ahead, I'm a little sad to say goodbye to it all.

But the beauty of it is that life goes on and we still continue to learn and grow, if we choose to do so. Closing a chapter in your life is always a little scary and sad, but opening up a new one can be thrilling and wonderful. So, on Saturday, when I don my graduation gown and oddly-shaped hat, I will relish in the idea of taking everything good I have learned and holding on to every good person I've come to love, and have faith, knowing the Lord will guide me to more good things and more good people, and more good experiences.

So yes, I'm done and... I'm graduating!!!

Website's up!

2007-05-06T01:35:00.000-05:00

OK, it's not the same as my very own website, but it's a start! I uploaded a few songs from the cd (which will be ready for pickup on Monday, and available for purchase on cdbaby.com in a week or so) onto my myspace music page: myspace.com/jacosalave. Feel free to check it out, give a listen and/or leave a comment. I'd love any feedback you have!

More art in bloom:

2007-04-27T14:10:00.000-05:00

Awesomness:

How cool is that?

I didn't get the painting in this, because I was too taken with the arrangement- sorry! I love, love, love lillies!

Doing our best to fit in! Thanks for coming, Rachelle and Heidi!

Art in Bloooooom!

2007-04-27T13:51:00.000-05:00

The other night, I shirked all academic duties and went to the Museum of Fine Arts with Rachelle and Heidi. I LOVE the MFA! I've always appreciated art, but seeing it up close- works by all the people you hear about all the time- it's inspiring and AMAZING! Same feeling as the Broadway show and the marathon...

For "Art in Bloom", people design flower arrangements inspired by art. How could this be bad? I love art. I love flowers. The decision to put off writing a paper or two was a no-brainer. Besides, one of the papers is in art history, so technically it was research. Yep, research...

The lights on the grand staircase:

See how the arrangement mirrors the painting?

Live music too- oh heaven...

I don't know if you can really see, but look at the details in the flowers showing the bouquet she's holding, even the hem of her skirt!

More music:

CD Update

2007-04-21T02:19:00.000-05:00

1. The cd design has been chosen!!! We're still fine-tuning (and by "we" I mean "Ray"- I'm doing nothing but being a pain in his behind), but for the most part it's been chosen and I LOVE IT! Ray really did a beautiful job- I can't wait for you all to see it!

2. The mixing should all be completed this weekend. Yahoooooo!

3. I have acquired the rights to all but two of the songs, which are also in progress.

4. The cd will be duplicated at a place here in Boston which will save me a bundle in shipping and they have a turnaround time of 2-3 days.

Summary: Basically, if all goes as planned, I could have the cds in my hot little hands by this time next week! I'm so excited, I can't even stand it! =D FYI, if you're here in Boston and would like, you can get a cd from me directly. If not, they should be up for sale on cdbaby.com by sometime in early May. Stay tuned!

Happy Birthday!

2007-04-19T03:22:00.000-05:00

Today was Melba's birthday, so we had a girls' night out and went to Not Your Average Joe's. I told Melba we could go anywhere she wanted but, truth be told, I had been craving their Watermelon Lemonade all day, so I was happy as could be when she chose it. It was a fun night- good food and great conversation with some of the best gals I know. Fun!

Happy birthday, Melb!

Three cheers!

2007-04-17T10:58:00.000-05:00

The Boston Marathon was held yesterday, on Patriot's Day (as usual), despite a nasty little NorEaster that proved marathon runners that much more hard-core (BIG props to them!). It's a huge deal in Boston and I love going to watch it!

This is the women's winner of the Boston Marathon this year. I'm thrilled for her! Here's why:

Apparently, the day before, she was almost in tears because of self-doubt and the great credentials and records of the other front-runners in the race. But she said she knew she could do it, she just had to have confidence. Yesterday, as I watched her lag behind the other two main competitors throughout the race and then, at the end, pull out and dust them for an awesome finish, I couldn't help but feel a little emotional watching her victory. Everyone loves a successful underdog...

But then, Melba and I went to Washington Square and met Katie at mile 23 or so, to cheer on the runners and I realized I felt this way about each and every person passing. There's something so powerful and inspiring about watching the realization of hours and hours of hard, hard work.

It reminded me of the first time I went to a broadway show. I sat there, completely awestruck and moved by the idea that this amazing show was the end-result of countless hours in a practice room, voice lessons, dance lessons, heart-breaking auditions, music study, theater study, writing piece after piece that doesn't measure up... From the producer to the director to the actors to the conductor, this was the result of many people never giving up. It's a powerful thing and I felt it with full force as I watched the opening number.

It was the same feeling at the marathon. Whether we're talking about the arts or sports or anything else, the idea of facing your fears, learning and changing bad habits into good ones, disciplining yourself, finding confidence in who you are and what you have to offer without worrying about the credentials of another and, above all, never giving up- it's thrilling!

Ups and downs

2007-04-12T13:44:00.000-05:00

The downs:

1. My cd drive is broken.
2. The geniuses at Berklee took almost two hours to tell me that while they dilly-dallied (sp?) and ate vanilla frosties.
3. They also installed a program I need, incorrectly, so I have to go back and spend more time with them. If I bring them frosties but withold them until they do it right, do you think they'll work faster?

The ups:

1. The recording went well and mixing is coming along nicely, as is cd design.
2. It's raining, but it's not snowing.
3. No school on Monday OR Tuesday- should have planned a road trip!!!
4. I have my health...

More ups than downs, see? I'm staying positive! =D Yay!

Funny

2007-04-12T13:38:00.000-05:00

This is a pic my bro posted of my niece:

This is a pic I posted (sans Melb and Ben) a few days before

Trying to decide if it's a good thing or a bad thing that my hairdo and facial expession is so similar to that of a two-year-old's. She's a cute one, though, so there's that...

Easter!!! (Part Dos)

2007-04-10T00:13:00.000-05:00

After dinner, Ben, Jared, Mike and Dave took turns playing guitar and/or serenading us all. Our policy: Make them sing for their supper!

What happens if you refuse to sing:

The girls! (Katie, Melba, Tristan and me)

Unfortunately, it all had to end sometime- Dave, Bryce, Katie and Tristan bid us farewell...

Thanks for making Easter dinner so wonderful, everyone! Until the next partay...

Easter!!!

2007-04-09T23:56:00.000-05:00

Easter was great! Went to church, where I sang a solo, as did Mike (who did a beautiful job). Melba accompanied me and Mike on piano (Thanks, Melb!) and it was so nice to sing- I always love to share my love for music as well as the Savior with anyone who will listen! Afterwards, some friends came over for dinner, which was a blast! Here's the centerpiece, some beautiful roses Sylvia and Megan sent me to wish me goodluck on my recording. SO sweet (thanks so much, girls!)- aren't the flowers gorgeous?! They got rave reviews!

We wanted to do an easter egg hunt, but forgot to buy anything for it (whoops!), so Katie brought over a bucket full of Easter candy for everyone to munch on. Fun! Thanks, Katie!

The spread- yum...

Jared and Dave enjoying their meals:

Nothing like a good nap after a big meal...

Update

2007-04-08T21:22:00.000-05:00

Just a quick update for anyone who happens to be on pins and needles about the recording...

It was WONderful! I don't know whether it was the change of attitude or just luck, but all ran smoothly- the instrumentalists were so easy to work with and just fun to be with. The whole thing was such a great experience, it made up for all the madness of last week!

Still have to do all the mixing and what not, so it's not ready to go and won't be for a month or so, but the recording part is done and I enjoyed every moment of the session!

Yay!

OH!

2007-04-06T18:11:00.000-05:00

And I forgot- per your request, Katie:

Katie was talked into, coerced, duped, peer-pressured, in effect, forced to help Melba and I in our little April Fools debaucle. (Handy word, Katie, handy word. Did I spell it right?) So she should not be blamed in any way, shape or form...

(Although, if your friends told you to jump off a bridge, would you do that too? I'm just sayin'...)

That's all, folks...

2007-04-06T17:42:00.000-05:00

As I reflect on the past week, trying to figure out this funk I've been in, I've come up with this: Attitude is everything, and mine has left something to be desired.

First I didn't want to prep leadsheets, then I didn't like my songs, then I was disappointed when everything didn't run like clockwork at the rehearsal. This week has brought on doubts about my ability as a performer, writer and arranger, and it only adds to the gnawing "Where am I going to be living/working in the next few months?" panic that has become such a major part of my uncomfortably changing life.

I should apologize to Melba... and Angela, for that matter. These two dear, patient friends have been doing damage control all week, as I've been a scattered stress case. I honestly didn't know I had it in me, to be this stressed, and about music no less. It's usually what brings me joy and it's fun on the most basic and pure level. Well, now that I do know I have it in me, step 2 is to make sure this never, ever happens again, and I think the key is attitude.

I've come to a few conclusions:

1. I believe this recording marks the beginning of many big changes and "I-didn't-know-it-would-be-like-this" situations in the next few years, or at least until I have some resemblance of a solidified career and settled life. Best to learn to roll with the punches now.
2. Cliche and all, it's true- if I didn't go through the bad, how could I appreciate the good? It's a bumpy road, but a road I chose to be on and that I'm grateful to take. Ahhhm gratitude... sigh...
3. It doesn't have to be perfect to be good. I talked with David today (my voice instructor) and he helped me realize this. I'm not the best jazz singer in the world. There, I said it, and it's true, and the world didn't crumble. I can offer what I have to give, which is a decent voice, and a sincere belief that music touches people, including me, in ways nothing else can. It's an honor to play any sort of role in that.

So I'm finished blogging... about the stress and frustrations of this recording, anyway. This is it- I'm turning over a new leaf. Tomorrow, when I head to the studio, to sing songs I love, I'm going to focus on that and remember what a blessing it is to be here, in Boston, attending Berklee, recording music I want to record with some fabulous musicians, so that I can share it with others. It's a wonderful thing, it really, really is.

Is this normal?

2007-04-04T16:41:00.000-05:00

Yes, I realize that I've been blogging like mad, and really about nothing. But it's sort of therapeutic for me. I don't know whether anyone but my family and a few close friends reads this blog and really, I don't care. It's like journaling, only I don't have to write and scrutinize my handwriting. Although I should do that too- journal, I mean. But, for now, it's blogging for me.

I thought it might be leaving Boston. Then I thought maybe it would be completing this last semester. Orrr, maybe finding a job and making another move across the country. This week, I thought it could really be the inability to sleep. But now I think I've found it- the thing that will drive me mad, nuts, crazy beyond recognition and all things good- this recording.

My thought processes this week:

Monday morning: Wow. I record on Sat and rehearse on Thurs. I should probably write leadsheets to the songs I've been planning to do. Good thing I've already chosen the songs. Yes, I still have to write a couple, but that'll take no time... Good thing I set aside all of today to do it!
Monday afternoon: Not really feelin' the whole leadsheet thing. Maybe tomorrow. What's on Oprah?
Monday night: 5 leadsheets done! ("We Are the Champions" plays in my head while I proudly look at my work)

Tuesday morning: Just get through your classes. Just show up and worry about your songs later.
Tuesday afternoon: No way I can tutor tonight- too much to do, too much.
Tuesday night: One more leadsheet, just do one more. (The drama queen in me pictures myself chained to the piano- my life is so hard...)
Late Tuesday night: PANIC! This whole thing is going to be awful. My songs are horrible, my arrangements are lame, I'm not even that good. Why should I record bad arrangements of lame songs that I can't even sing well?
Even later Tuesday night (after a reassuring talk with Melb): This is going to be great! I can't waaaaaiiiiiiiit!

This morning: Must I get out of bed?
This afternoon: I'm changing all my songs.
Later this afternoon: I'm only changing some of my songs, but I'm not doing any originals anymore. Songwriting was never my forte.
This moment: Utter, utter confusion. Mind spinning, not sure which way is up. Good is bad, bad is good, all music is a jumble in my head.

One more leadsheet. Just do one more...

Huh????

2007-04-04T16:30:00.001-05:00

It's April.

It's snowing.

It's April and it's snowing.

I don't understand.

I lie awake... I drive myself crazy, drive myself crazy...

2007-04-03T23:54:00.000-05:00

Sorry to quote a lame N Sync song, but it, along with my thoughts, was driving me crazy.

I CAN'T SLEEP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I got in bed at 10:30, planning to enjoy 8 full hours of peaceful slumber until I was blissfully awakened by the sun for a vigorous workout, which would help me feel energized to finish my leadsheets for this blasted recording.

It is now 1am.

Dreams of early-morning workouts slipped away an hour or two ago, as did dreams of, well, dreams. Finally, I accepted my defeat and declared Insomnia the winner as I got up to answer emails, review songs for the recording and review my to-do list. I have now run out of things to do (not really true, just things that I WANT to do...), so blogging it is. But, here I sit, and not a single interesting thing to say. I should apologize to the poor souls out there who make the mistake of reading this. I hate reading a long blog and then getting to the end and thinking, "That's IT? What was the point of all that???" Makes me feel like my time isn't respected. OK, yes, I know that my blog-reading time really doesn't deserve to be respected, but still, come on! Anyhow, that's this blog in a nutshell. No point. Just rambling. No moral to the story or big payoff at the end. Just can't sleep, that's all. Sorry.

Too bad I can't call up my Counterpoint instructor. Now HE could make me fall asleep. Maybe I should have recorded his lectures. On the up side, I'm boring myself, so maybe that'll put me to sleep.

It's all fun and games until...

2007-04-02T08:34:00.000-05:00

So last night, Melba and I were lamenting our gross neglect of April Fools and feeling a little left out of the whole thing. Could be that it was nearly 11pm and I was tired. Or perhaps it was the fact that I'd spent the day learning how to be a better person through conference and the rebel in me wanted to come out and play. Or maybe it was the fact that I come from a line of practical jokers (My grandma, at a family reunion, once rushed in with a newborn baby and, on the verge of tears, told us all that the baby had been left on the doorstep. Once the whole family was in a panic about what to do and who to call, she started laughing and out came some old family friends who had come to visit with their new baby. This is where I come from and I'm proud of it...)

Well, regardless of the reason or excuse, Melba and I called our friend Katie and began hatching a plan to fool Mike. I'll leave out details, to protect Mike and others, but it all ended with Katie calling Mike (with us on speaker, muted) and crying to him. Because of the subject, we expected him to panic a little- you know... be a little worried... about himself... Well, rule #1 when you are a practical joker: Know your audience. Instead, he started reassuring Katie, telling her everything would be OK, comforting her. He was being so sweet and sensitive, almost immediately we felt like jerks. Still on mute, Melba and I realized our mistake and, as Katie's Oscar-worthy performance continued, tried to figure out how in the world we could get out of this gracefully. Well, graceful or not, Katie started laughing and began apologizing profusely- Melba and I debated leaving her hanging and denying having had anything to do with it, but un-muted the phone and, in the midst of nervous cackling, also apologized profusely. Mike was a good sport and laughed about it, but we all felt pretty lame.

We considered hanging up our practical-joker badges but, instead, started hatching another plan. Luckily, by then, it was midnight and too late to call someone else. So ended our April fooling. Next time, will have to plan better...

Maile's Blessing (Part VI- the end!)

2007-04-01T18:36:00.000-05:00

Sunday was the perfect ending to Spring Break- Maile's blessing was that day and it was really beautiful! My sister's in-laws were there (I grew up with/around a lot of them) and it was really nice to see them again and get to catch up!

Our Maile Mei- isn't she beautiful?!

Happy baby!

With her mom, my beautiful sister, Katrina!

Here's the whole family with my grandma, who came into town from Idaho for the week. It was wonderful to spend time with her and the rest of the family. Thanks to all of you for such a wonderful week- I'm so blessed to have such a wonderful, beautiful family!

The Beach (Part V)

2007-03-31T02:06:00.000-05:00

Saturday, we all decided to head to the beach. It was snowing when I left Boston and in the 80's in Sac that week, so I thought a beach trip would be wonderful! I LOVE the beach- there's something so relaxing about the ocean- it's refreshing. I couldn't wait, and I thought it would be so much fun to have the kids there, too. They make everything more fun!

Unfortunately, the weather didn't cooperate and it was freezing! (OK, not Boston freezing, but California freezing feels pretty cold when you're not used to it...) It was so cold and windy, we couldn't stay for long. Still, the kids were wonderful! They were little angels to and from the beach (for the hour and a half long drive) and didn't seem phased by the cold (including Kai, who fell in the freezing water and, wet clothes and all, was still happy as ever)!

Kingston doesn't usually wear girl sweaters that are too big and pink hats. He was cold, so Ang put her sweater around him and Mariana wasn't using the hat, so we stuck that on him too. He was a little shocked when he saw the picture. =D

I had to include this picture as props to my little brother, James. He and his friend Roger braved the ocean, without so much as a wetsuit. He's tougher than me...

Spring Break continued! (Part IV)

2007-03-31T01:44:00.000-05:00

Thursday was a great day. That morning, I went to the temple with my mom, grandma and Angela. It was wonderful to be there with them. Afterwards, we went to Ettore's for lunch, which was so delicious! My weakness is their princess cake. Besides the obvious ego-stroke in the name and the fact that it's just a beautiful cake, it's made of moist yellow cake with a layer of whipped cream and raspberry jam with whipped cream on top and covered with marzipan. I realize you guys basically don't care, but it's obviously worth blogging about to me. I like to think of it as a little piece of heaven. Here's me, my mom and grandma at the temple. (Sorry, no pics of the cake- you'll just have to go to Ettore's yourself...)
After lunch, we went to visit Ang's brother and sister-in-law, who just had a new baby. It was fun to visit with them and see their darling baby! Then we took my computer in to Apple, where they told me they couldn't do anything (refer to the Megan/Ray blog)- that was cool. We topped off the night hanging out with David, Jaycee and the girls. Mariana is tons of fun!

Jada is a doll...

Friday, I volunteered to take the boys for a few hours to give Katrina a break and me some quality time with them. We went to Jamba Juice (aren't their little cups so cute???) and then had a picnic at the park. I can't even explain the fun I had!

Friday night, Sylvia, Jenice and I were supposed to go dancing. Well, one thing lead to another and there was some fiasco with Jenice and a drunk woman from her work or something (obviously, I'm a little hazy on the exact story), so we missed dancing, but wound up talking at Johnny Rocket's for awhile. It was good to catch up with them, so maybe it was a good thing the dancing didn't work out!

Because, despite the PAUSE, I CAN'T SLEEP!

2007-03-28T03:30:00.000-05:00

I stumbled upon this little gem of a game on Mary's blog- you're given life events and then put your iPod on shuffle and write down whatever song comes up for each life event. Here goes nothin'...

Opening credits: I Know You By Heart, Eva Cassidy
Not sure what this means, or even what it has to do with opening credits or my life, but it's a pretty song and I LOVE Eva... Good start.

Waking up: Somewhere Over the Rainbow, Eva Cassidy
Weird- Mary's had the same artist for the first two as well. iPod conspiracy or defect??? But, while we're on the subject, I believe this is the most beautiful version of this song recorded and I'm offended that Katherine McPhee sang it on American Idol (and quite poorly, in comparison to Eva) and took credit for Eva's licks. Badly done, Katherine, badly done... But it's a good waking up song- rainbows and making dreams come true and all that- I dig.

OK, let's see if the next song is Eva...

First Day at School: Crime of the Century, Ragtime
Hahahaha...

Falling in Love: Private Eyes, Hall and Oates
"Private eyes, they're watching you, they see your every move..." Stalker?!?!?

Fight Song: Changing Money, Learning to Speak Thai
Oh, wow, that was a surprise to hear again... A lot of good that did me. About all I learned to say in Thai was "thank-you", and the Thai people laughed at me when I said that. Does that count as a Fight Song??? I don't think so. Let's go on to the next one.

Dreamgirls, Dreamgirls Soundtrack
Better... "All you've got to do is dream..." Yes, yes, it works!

Breaking Up: Sweet Georgia Brown, Roberta Flack
Cool, funky version of this song. Hmmmm... am I to put myself in the place of Georgia Brown??? "I saw her cry today because he went away..." Sad. "They all sigh and wanna die for sweet Georgia Brown..." Cool.

Prom: My Heart Will Go On, Celine Dion
Uhhhh, I think this was actually played at my prom, and I'm sure I loved it. Embarrassing. Moving on.

Life’s OK: Minuano, CSUS Jazz Singers (similar to Kurt Elling's)
That sucks. This is just about the most depressing song ever. Wait, actually, I guess I've never really listened to the lyrics. It only sounds depressing. "Darkness lingers, but always surrenders to loving. Dark as midnight is swallowed in oceans of laughter." Much better!

Mental Breakdown: Baby Close Your Eyes, Celine Dion
Sweet lullaby. Listening to the lyrics. Mm-hm, it works, it works...
"So baby, close your eyes and rest your weary mind..."
TRANSLATION: Calm down and sleep, so we don't have to commit you.
"Let your worries go, you fall asleep, think of nothing more, memories will keep..."
TRANSLATION: Seriously, calm down.
"You will find that you hold a smile all day"
TRANSLATION: And she's lost it...
"You may wake and you're all alone. Just call and I'll be there."
TRANSLATION: If you wake up in a white room with padding, no worries, I'll visit you...

Driving: Misled, Celine Dion
OK, this is really embarrassing. I swear, I don't really listen to Celine often, despite my vast Celine song collection and the fact that her voice is pretty amazing (come on, you have to admit it). That being said, the song is appropriate- I get lost all the time.

Inner Smile: Tequila, ?
PeeWee Herman flashbacks of his movies and TV show where he did a dance to this, and where I got the idea to create a rubberband ball- or was it a tin foil one? I can't remember... (This was pre freaky movie theater arrest, of course) =D Definitely brings a smile!

Flashback: Your Good Thing Is About to End, Bonnie Raitt
Story of my life.

Getting Back to Together: Smoking Session, Fiji
Just say no...

Wedding: Nutty Nutcracker, Thoroughly Modern Millie
I don't really know how to respond to that one.

Birth of a Child: I Am Hawaii, Jack DeMello
I've always thought of naming a girl "Laie", which is in Hawaii. It's a sign!

Final Battle: Special Angel Children, Afterglow
Ah yes, good old Afterglow. Does this mean I'll die in childbirth?

Death Scene: Superwoman, Karyn White
Awesome.

Funeral: "Il ritmo Della Pasione", Eros Ramazzotti
No fair- I don't know what that means, and I'm not even sure how this got on here. Do over...

"Tengo Que Decirte Algo", Gloria Estefan and Jose Feliciano
Is this a joke? Again, I don't know what this means, but I do remember downloading it. Beauuuuutiful album- "The Spanish Love Songs", Gloria Estefan. Check it out!

OK, I know I'm totally cheating, but it's my funeral! Third time's the charm:

O Little Town of Bethlehem, Oscar Peterson
I should have quit while I was ahead.

PAUSE

2007-03-28T02:10:00.000-05:00

I'm gonna take a little break from posting, although I have lots more to post, what with the rest of spring break and my concert last night. But it's 3am and I have class in the morning and, quite frankly, I should have been sleeping in heavenly peace hours ago. Besides, this will give you all time to read these blogs, without bombarding you with a bunch more at the same time. Stay tuned for more!

James' Eagle (Part III)

2007-03-28T01:59:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday night, my brother, James, received his Eagle. We're SO proud of him!

Keva and Kingston smothering Maile with kisses:

Mom and Dad speaking together- team effort!

James' cake (and Keva!!!)

I had to include this- Mariana saying, "CHEEEEEESE!"

Congratulations, James! Love, love, love you!

Monday with Maile (Part II)

2007-03-28T01:52:00.000-05:00

Monday night Katrina and Mom took the boys to see The Wiggles. Lucky for me, I got to watch Maile while they were dancing the night away.

Cutie!

Feeding time:

Picture time:

Crying time (it had to happen sometime!):

Smiley Maile:

It pays to know people who know stuff

2007-03-28T01:30:00.000-05:00

I'm taking a break from Spring Break entries to dedicate this post to my good friend Megan and her husband Ray. Quite frankly, they saved my academic life this semester. After the geniuses at Berklee Tech Support (or, as they're more commonly known, "the idiots") told me my hard drive was totally gone and that nothing could be done, Ray came to the rescue, saved everything on my computer, put in a new hard drive and did it all in less than a week's time. Needless to say, I am thoroughly impressed and beyond grateful. Ray rocks. And, furthermore, Megan rocks for being the stellar type of girl who has the presence of mind to marry a stellar type of guy, and for being selfless enough to give up a little time with her hubby to help a friend. Thanks, thanks, thanks to you both! If I can ever, ummmmmm, sing a song for you or babysit one of your future children, I'm happy to do so! Yay for Megan and Ray!

Spring Break! (Part I)

2007-03-28T01:20:00.000-05:00

Spring Break got off to a great start with my family! My good friend, Ang, was kind enough to let me stay with her, so we had them all over for dinner on Sunday night. This is one of my favorite pastimes- hanging out with my family. I think they're pretty awesome!

Me and Maile- love at first sight! =D Cheesy, I know, but she had me at hello...

Beautiful Jaycee and my darling niece Jada- two peas in a pod!

My mom, smelling the daffodil Mariana was carrying around for everyone to smell:

Playing "Simon Says" with Ang. For some reason, Kai thought hopping on one foot required lifting the other one up to his head. Funny!

The three amigos- cutest kids ever!

March madness

2007-03-17T12:04:00.000-05:00

It was 65 on Wednesday. It was a joyous day, as we Boston-dwellers ventured out in flip-flops, shorts, skirts, all was right in the world. Then Friday came... now it's cold and the ground is covered with snow. Ahhh, the life of a New Englander. Never a dull moment. After spending most of the day inside, my roommie and I ventured out during the Nor-Easter (sp?) to see a movie (Premonition- BTW, good movie, lame ending...)

Here we are on the way to the T:

Making snow angels in the street- hers was better than mine. Sad.

Snowball FIIIIIIIIGHT!

On our way home, we stopped at the park by our house. There was a lonely snowman, so we made a snowwoman. After all, it's not good for man to be alone...

In all her glory- we think she's just about the best snowperson EVER!

Fun night- thanks, Heidi!

Everyone's life has a soundtrack

2007-03-14T23:51:00.000-05:00

(This picture of Amy Grant will eventually make sense...)
Tonight, Katie and I roamed through the hills of Brookline walking and talking and it reminded me of old times- simpler times. Read on:
1. When I was about 13, me and my friends Tiffany and Brooke snuck out of her parents' house to walk to my crush's house. What were we going to do??? Nothing. Absolutely nothing, but it was invigorating, knowing we were walking the streets of Sac-town (makes it sound cooler than it really is) in the wee hours of the morning with nothing but some hairspray and a fork (for protection, naturally). At the time, "500 Miles" from Benny and June was popular- it became our theme song...
2. Katie and I talked for hours about random things, where I shared much of my dating history. Weird, to think about certain people again, and extremely weird to think about the different paths my life could have taken. All I can say is thank goodness the Lord is in control, and not me. What a mess I would have made! Lots of cheesy Boyz II Men songs came to mind, thinking about all the teenage drama, church dances and embarrassing moments I would pay to forget!
3. As we walked through Coolidge Corner, I looked through the window of a restaurant and recognized a woman. Doing a double-take, I thought, "Amy Grant"! I may have even yelled it, I'm not sure. Trying to play it cool, I tried to pretend not to care, but I believe her dinner companion noticed me gawking. Ah well- I'm sure she's seen worse. Anyway, I remembered that Amy Grant's "House of Love" was the first cd I ever bought, which began the madness that is my cd collection.

Anyway, I really do believe we all have, or should have, soundtracks to life. I like to think mine has increased in quality with my music study, however, tonight, after I sang a few bars of "Baby Baby" to remind Katie who Amy Grant is, and after all the walking, I believe I may have come full circle- literally and figuratively.

Oops...

2007-03-13T13:19:00.000-05:00

The vocal jazz series is on March 26th, NOT 25th- 7:30pm at Berklee in the David Friend recital hall (921 Boylston, across from the Pru). Hope all of you who are in Boston can make it!!! (BTW, in case you're wondering, this is indeed the same concert I did last semester- check one of my first blogs for pics and a run-down of that performance...)