Just a little push...

I had some really good and much needed conversations this week. I got some really good advice from them. Here are some good ones.

These are from a conversation earlier today:

"Take a risk, Jody Hinkley... Don't let something that could be so good for you go by... I just don't want you wishing you could fix things after the fact. I went a whole year wanting to do just that and was lucky enough to do so but those things don't always happen."  I really needed this push. [This was (obviously) directed towards me specifically, so I wouldn't take the advice unless you feel you are the same way or are in the same type of situation.]

Another person told me this:

Something along the lines of "You can't go searching for love, it will find you." Not really thinking about it, I actually told someone this today: "Sometimes love is different than we expect it to be." Don't these 2 tie together really well?

I've never really thought about life like this before and really understood it.

I'm in a Kerry Butler mood today, so here are 2 videos (well audio) of her singing for the BBC Radio 2 Celebrates the music of Disney.

Ashley Brown and Kerry Butler singing "He's a Tramp" from the Lady and the Tramp movie.

Kerry Butler singing "Part of Your World" and Kerry Butler, Titus Burgess, Adam Pascal, and Drew Sarich singing "If Only" from The Little Mermaid Broadway musical

BAM!

Six and a half hours...

... of  Rockband and Guitar Hero World Tour would drive anyone insane, except, of course, my family. It's a bit ridiculous if you ask me. I hope this is not how the rest of the holidays are going to be like because if it comes to that, I'll just stay home and get Chinese takeout.

A couple short stories

I'm in a story telling mood, so I'm just going to tell you a couple small stories.

So, my best friend from high school, Burt, told me that his mom was googling his name one day, and somehow she stumbled upon my blog. She just happened to stumble upon one of my sad blogs, I think it was one of the ones from the end of the summer.  So she read it, and thought I was seriously upset about the whole situation of summer ending (I was, but not the emotionally disturbed way). She was so worried that she told Burt to call me and make sure I was okay. Hahaha. I don't know why, but I find that hilarious! Maybe it's because I know the way Burt's mom is or the fact that I can see her telling doing all of this. Hahaha!

Earlier tonight, I went to Quiznos to get myself some dinner. I had woken up 5 minutes before, was frumped out, and not looking my best-dorm shorts, flip-flops, and a t-shirt. So I walk in, and the guy making a sandwich for another customer totally stops and stares. I realized a couple seconds after I got in line to order my sandwich that this was the same guy that I kind of flirted with the last time I went to Quiznos-eye contact, big smile, a small hair flip. He kind of got my order wrong. I don't know if he was distracted by me (weird) or if just heard me wrong, but I didn't say anything because it wasn't a big deal. Now, I'm not one to gloat about stuff this, but damn, that was a good ego boost I kind of needed. Maybe I am making this up in my head. Maybe he is straight. Maybe he was just a little all over the place. But maybe there is a cute gay guy in Belle Chasse. [That would be out of this world.] Who really knows?

Ok, last one. About 30 minutes ago, I got a phone call from a close friend. [No names will be given because it might ruin the surprise for another person.] This person wants to get their significant other, who is also a close friend of mine, a gift, but this person was unsure if their significant other already had this gift. I told her to get it. It's really thoughtful. Isn't that cute? This person wants to their gift to be perfect for their somebody. After that phone call, all I can think is "I want that." I'm going to spare you my whining and yearning for that someone. All I am going to say is that I am one confused individual that can never make up his mind. But I do know one thing: I want someone to kiss at 12:00:01 AM January 1, 2009.

This is Xanadu's performance of "Don't Walk Away" on the 2008 Tony Awards. I'm sure all of my friends have seen this performance, but I just can't get over how astounding Cheyenne Jackson and Kerry Butler's belt in this video. Jsyk, they did not perform this number exactly like this during the real Broadway performances of Xanadu. This is just a special version. Soak it in because it's ah- mah-zing! [Thank you Seth Rudetsky.] The intro before the performance is hilarious!

BAM!!

I think it's time for a revue!

So, it's been a little while since I've blogged. I don't count the last one I posted. I think I'm gonna prevent this from being ridiculously long blog. So yeah. Here I go.

So, I'm participating in a musical Christmas revue called REVUE THIS: Christmas. The majority of the revue is Christmas music, with a few exceptions. I think there is about 4 songs that are not Christmas affiliated, like mine. I'm singing "Goodbye" from I Love You Because. I think the revue going to be pretty amazing. Personally, I think the group numbers are awesome. If we could do a revue of mostly group numbers, that would be like the most incredible revue I would ever see or be a part of. So, here's my shameless plug: Come see REVUE THIS: Christmas!! Click the link for the Facebook event with all of the information. Saturday and Sunday (tonight and tomorrow) at BMHS. Both shows are at 8PM. Admission is $7.

The only downside to this revue is that I haven't been able to see all of my friends who are coming home for break, but after Sunday night, I am pretty much free to hang with all of them all the time. Woot! Weird reaction, but that's how I feel.

This is a video of Kerry Butler singing "Somewhere That's Green" but with a little bit of a twist. It's a musical madlib. You'll understand when you watch it. I don't know if you know this, but I love Kerry Butler. Just thought I'd throw that out there.

BAM!

Bored- funny, then informative

Game #1

Dear Blythe,

I don't really know how to tell you this, but our romance is over. I think I realized it when I quoted Forest Gump and you were at the Elton John concert and I saw you pull the clothes off my salt-beef bucket. I'm sure you're cowardly enough to understand that you need a sex change. I'm returning your toe ring to you, but I'll keep your left ear as a memory. You should also know that I am better off without you and I will haunt you when I’m reincarnated as an Eskimo.

Greetings to your frog Leonard,
Jody
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

NOW ITS YOUR TURN!
Dear (someone you recently talked to),
I don't really know how to tell you this, but (1). I think I realized it (2) (3) and I saw you (4) (5). I'm sure you're (6) enough to understand (7). I'm returning your (8) to you, but I'll keep (9) as a memory. You should also know that I (10) and (11).

(12),
(Your name)

-----------------------------------------------------------------
1) What's the color of your shirt?
Blue - I'm in love with your cat
Red -Our affair is over
White - I’m joining the Convent
Black -Our romance is over
Green- Our socks don't match
Grey - You're a leprechaun
Yellow - I'm selling myself for candy
Pink - Your nostrils are insulting
Brown - The mafia wants you
No shirt - You're mean
Other -I dislike your eyelashes

2) Which is your birth month?
January - That night you picked your nose
February -When I quoted Forest Gump
March - When your dwarf bit me
April - When I tripped on peanut butter
May - When I threw up in your sock drawer
June - When you put cuffs on me
July – When you smacked my ass
August - When I saw the purple monkey
September - Last year when you peed your pants
October - When we skinny dipped in the bathtub
November - When your dog humped my leg
December - When I changed my underwear

3) Which food do you prefer?
Tacos - In your apartment
Chicken- In your car
Pasta - Outside of your office
Hamburgers - Under the bus
Salad – As you were eating Kraft Dinner
Lasagna - In your closet
Kebab - With Jean Chrétien
Fish - In a clown suit
Sandwiches - At the Elton John concert
Pizza - At the mental hospital
Hot dog - Under a street light
Annat- With George Bush and Stephen Harper

4) What's the color of your socks?
Yellow - Ignore
Red - Put whipped cream on
Black - Hit on
Blue - Knock out
Purple - Pour syrup on
White - Carve your initials into
Grey - Pull the clothes off
Brown - bit of
Orange - Castrate
Pink - Pull the pants off of
Barefoot - Sit on
Other - Drive over

5) What's the color of your underwear?
Black - My boyfriend
White - My father
Grey – The Catholic Priest
Brown – The Montreal Canadian’s goalie
Purple - My corned beef hash
Red – My knee caps
Blue - My salt-beef bucket
Yellow - My illegitimate child in Ghana
Orange - My Blink 182 cd
Pink – Your ‘My Little Pony’ collection
None – My prized statue of Michael Jackson in the nude
Other --The elephant in the corner

6) What do you prefer to watch on TV?
One Tree Hill - Senile
Heroes- Frostbitten
Lost - High
Simpsons- Cowardly
The news - Scarred
American Idol - Masochistic
Family Guy - Open
Top Model - Middle-class
Annat -shamed

7) Your mood right now?
Happy - How awful you are
Sad - How boring you are
Bored - That I get turned on only by garbage men
Angry - That your smell makes me vomit
Depressed – That we’re related
Excited - That I may pee my pants
Nervous - The middle-east is planning their revenge on you
Worried - That your Ford sucks
Apathetic - That you need a sex change
Silly - That I'm allergic to your earlobes
Cuddly - That Santa doesn't exsist
Ashamed - That there is no solution to you being a dumb kid
Other - That your driving sucks

8) What's the color of your walls in your bedroom?
White - Your toe ring
Yellow - Your love letters to me
Red - The pictures from Vegas
Black - Your pet rock
Blue - The couch cushions
Green - Your car
Orange - Your false teeth
Brown - Your nose hair clippers
Grey - Our matching snoopy underwear
Purple - Your old New Kids on the Block blanket
Pink - The cut toenails
Other - Your Hannah Montanna underwear

9) The first letter of your first name?
A/B - My virginity
C/D - The results of that blood-sample
E/F - Your neighbors dog
G/H - The oil tank from your car
I/J - Your left ear
K/L - Your photo with the moustache drawn on it
M/N - Your glass eye
O/P - My common sense
Q/R - Your mom
S/T - Your collection of butterflies
U/V - Your criminal record
W/X – Your sucide note
Y/Z - Your credit cards

10) The last letter in your last name?
A/B - Love your sweetsweet ass
C/D - Always will remember the pep talks
E/F -Never will forget that night
G/H – Will not tell the authorities you stole the whale from the back yard
I/J – Mocked you behind your back constantly
K/L - Hate your cooking
M/N - Told in my confession today about the moose poaching
O/P - Told my psychiatrist about the bruises
Q/R - Always wanted to break your legs
S/T - Get sick when I think of you
U/V - Will try to forget that you broke my heart
W/X - Haven’t showered in a month
Y/Z – am better off without you

11) What do you prefer to drink?
Wine- Our friendship is ruined
Soft drink – I’m off to lead a new life as a lemon
Soda – I will haunt you when I’m reincarnated as an Eskimo
Milk - The apartment building is on fire
Mineral Water – I'm scratching my ass as you read this
Cider– I have a passionate interest for mice
Juice – You ruined my attempts at another world war
Water – You should get that embarrassing rash checked
Hot chocolate – Your Cucumber-fetishism is weird
Whiskey - I love Oprah Winfrey
Beer – Thanks for the Cocaine
Other – you should stop picking your nose

12) To which country would you prefer to go on a vacation?
Thailand – Warm tingly sensations
Australia - Best of luck on the sex change
France - Love always
Spain - With tears of sadness
China – You make me sick
Germany – Please don’t hurt me
Japan - Go milk a cow
Greece - Your everlasting enemy
USA - Greetings to your frog Leonard
Egypt – Kiss my butt
England - Go drown yourself

Game #2

Rules: Once you’ve been tagged, you are supposed to write a note with 16 random things, facts, habits, or goals about you. At the end, choose 16 people to be tagged. You have to tag the person who tagged you. If I tagged you, it’s because I want to know more about you

1. Normally, I don't like to read, especially when it's "require" or forced upon me. I do like Harry Potter and Twilight (so far).
2. Somehow, my parents run my life. They make major decisions for me. They give me the illusion that I am running my own life. Like college, for example. They told me to do what makes me happy, and what happens? I'm manipulated into a major I don't want to be in, and I'm not heading towards exactly what I want. I do believe hypocritical is the word that fits here. I thought once you hit college, you starting YOUR life, not your life for your parents.

3. Sometimes I get online and on facebook just to wait for somebody to chat me up.
4. I don't like people who are 2-faced.
5. I over-indulge on TV and internet.
6. I don't cry. Because of this, I come off cold-hearted in emotional situations. I've cried maybe 3 times in the past 2 years. When I do cry (yes, it is possible), it's for a good reason.
7. I always feel like I have to justify everything I do. Sometimes I justify others people's actions too.
8. Even though I know deep down I don't want it because it's not really me, I crave the storybook type Christmas.

9. I want the perks that come with a relationship, but at the same time I think I'm subliminally afraid of being so close to a person.
10. I'm very independent when I'm around my family, but everywhere else I need others. [I love my friends.]
11. My ultimate dream is to star in a Broadway musical.
12. The majority of the music on my iPod and most of my time spent has something to do with musical theater and Broadway.
13. I'm such a facebook stalker/creeper.
14. I rarely regret anything.
15. I'm not perfect. I make mistakes. Small mistakes I don't care about. Big mistakes really get to me.
16. I'm gay. Apparently, it's fairly obvious, but if it's not obvious to you and you didn't know, here is my official, semi-public statement.

Bad...

A bad decision led to a bad day, but I'm glad at least some good came out of a today.

Winter Wonderland

Finals are done, which means I am finished with my first semester of college!!!! I'm going to skip over talking about them so as not to bore you with pointless details.

Yesterday (Thursday), as I'm sure everyone in south Louisiana could see and probably the rest of the U.S. ha heard, it snowed!! I'm not even kidding. It actually snowed in Hammond, Baton Rouge, and New Orleans. I think we got about 1-2 inches of snow. It's one of the only times I have ever been so genuinely excited about something so simple and ordinary, even though it's not ordinary here in New Orleans. I got up at like 8AM somewhat still hungover to look at it through my dorm window. That is how excited I was. Thursday was the 2nd time I had ever seen real snow. [The week before it was fake snow, aka Sneaux.] My first time seeing snow was Christmas Day 2004. That was a good day, but not as good as this time. What made Thursday even better was that I was almost done with my finals. I had none on Thursdays itself, so I chill carefree. 

I think I'm going to take you through the events of my day Thursday:

I was woken up by Blythe and my mom, and saw snow. Went and played in the snow with Katie. We met up with Blythe after, and got lunch with practically everyone I could've asked to hang out with (Blythe, Katie, Casi, Simon, Miki, and Amy). After, we chilled in Miki and Casi's room. Then Amy and helped Miki with the mail, which was a lot more fun than I thought it would be. After, we walked with Katie to go meet up with her brother at Tulane (she was going home). We said goodbye to each other like 4 times, and we ended up chilling and waiting on her brother for like 2 hours, a little ridiculous, but lots of fun. So we said goodbye to Katie when her cab came, and we went back to Loyola. We chilled til like 7ish and ordered Chinese food for Grey's Anatomy night. So, the Saints game was on ABC, so we weren't able to watch Grey's. [I found out today that it wasn't a new episode, so it is totally ok now.] Also, the Chinese food delivery-guy got kind of lost. It took me 10-15 minutes to find him and get our food. So we ate, chilled, and watched TV. Oh! While all of this was going on, my neighbor across the hall from me got busted for pot. We watched it all through my door's peephole and the cracks of the door. That was probably the most eventful thing besides the snow. Later on, everyone left, and I went to bed. So all-in-all, Thursday was a damn fun, good, relaxing, chill day.

Today, I cleaned out half of my dorm room for the possibility of getting a roommate next semester. My room won't be the same again. If I get a roommate next semester, I hope he wants to be good friends because if he doesn't, he's gonna hate me for having my friends over at all hours everyday. Now, I'm home and all unpacked for the month that lies ahead. Somehow, my bedroom does not feel as homey as my dorm room. Odd. At least I have a comfy couch in my room to sleep on. Also, Whit (my brother), his girlfriend (Melissa) [I just had the sudden urge to call her my sister. I hope he proposes soon because she is a part of this family, and he just needs to make it official.], and I decorated the tree while my mom put the TV on a channel that played Christmas music and took pictures. Cute, I know. I have no idea where my dad was.

This is the scene from the movie "Enchanted" where Pip the chipmunk is trying to tell Prince Edward that Nathaniel has an evil scheme with Queen Narissa to get rid of Giselle. This is probably my most favorite scene from the movie. I love the little gestures and other things in this video. I can watch this video over and over and over again. Katie, Blythe, Casi, and I actually do. Haha. Our favorite line is "It's good!" Look for it. It's hilarious!!!

BAM!!!

Wasting precious time

It's 12:47AM, and I'm supposed to be studying. As you can tell, I'm obviously not. 

Before I recap about my last couple of days which have been pretty good, I'm going to tell you about the next 24 hours.  I have 2 finals tomorrow morning: the written portion of music theory and music industry.  Theory I am not worried about. I've been studying the same subject since midterms, so I think I'm in a good place for my final.  Music Industry I  pretty much screwed. The final is cumulative. I don't really remember anything from the 1st half of the semester, I gave up on reading for the class, and I stopped paying attention. As you can tell, I'm kind of screwed. I'm going to study, but I think none of the information is going to sink in. These are my thoughts that I plan on telling my parents after I fail the class: "I don't care. I have no interest in passing a class for a major I had no interest in taking. Thank you for jeopardizing my large academic scholarship on a major you wanted me to take instead of allowing me to do what I like and know a hell of a lot more about. Thanks." I know it's kind of childish to blame someone else who isn't me, but I feel like I am right in this. Sounds self-centered, but you have to be a little self-centered when you are thinking about your future.  Ok, that's my mini venting session, for now.

Now for my recap. Friday, we saw Little Shop of Horrors. It was great. Shout out to Kaleb for a great performance. Saturday, I went to DHS's Neat n' Sweet with Monique. Lots o' fun. Sunday was Christmas at Loyola. It was kind of long, but beautiful music was made, even if some of it was classical. Ok. now to the big stuff. Monday was the beginning of finals week. Monday I had my World Religions "final" and my Music Theory musicianship final. All I had to do for World Religions was present my website.  Apparently my website was pretty good since, it was voted 2nd best in the class. 1st place got an automatic 110 A for their grade on the website. I'm surprised so many people liked it. Musicianship final was nerve-racking. I had some mess-ups, but I think I did ok. One of the teachers really like me, and they were being fairly lenient with the grading, so I have heard. So, Monday was a pretty good day. Tuesday was a big day for me. Tuesday was my voice juries. Voice juries are like an audition. You go in, you sing, and you leave. The only exception is that you are graded on your performance. That was my main worry. I got my grade a couple hours after I sang. I got 3 A's and 2 B+'s which I believe average to an A, so I'm psyched!

After my finals are done tomorrow, I think I'm going to throw caring into the air, let loose, and get a little drunk. I have nothing to do on Thursday, and Friday all I have is my piano final, which isn't going to be very hard at all (from what I've heard). Now we have hit the present.It is 1:15AM, and I'm not closer to being more intelligible in the field of music industry. Awesome. I might give up in like an hour or 2 and try to sleep. I'm tired. Sleep is good. Sleep is VERY good. 

This is Lisa Brescia singing the beautiful song called "And There It Is" from Scott Alan's new CD called KEYS at a CD signing held at a Barnes & Nobles in New York City. Go buy it! It's amazing.

BAM!

Bullshit Bullshit Bullshit!

I miss it.

Do I miss all of it? Do I miss parts of it? Why does my mind constantly change? Why does my mind never really know what it wants? Actually, I think I can answer that last one. My mind and my heart don't communicate! Thank you for not talking to each other. [Did you catch that sarcasm?]

This is where my blog title comes into play. This is probably my favorite scene from a movie ever. This is from "Forgetting Sarah Marshall." It's so fucking hilarious. Thank you Kristen Bell.

Bam! I guess?

Random!

I know it's early, but that last blog made me begin to think. Somehow that brought me to make some New Years Resolutions. Here are some:

1. Start doing what I want and not what others want. 

2. Stop bitching about everything on my blog (well, maybe stop bitching *so much*), and make the world a happier place.

3. Meet more people. Make more friends. [They kind of correlate.]

4. Have more fun.

5. Be honest with myself.

6. Allow myself to be genuinely happy, however that can come about.

Moving on..

So I was googling my name today [Yes, I do that sometimes when I'm really bored. You should try it one day.] and the results turned out a lot of "Jodie"s and "Hinckley"s, but not a lot of "Jody Hinkley"s. In the results, there were a lot of combinations of "Jody", "Jodi", "Jodie" and "Hinkley", "Hinckley". Most of the results were about Jodie Foster (the Academy-Award winning actress) and John Hinckley (the guy who tried to kill President Ronald Reagan to impress her[crazy, much?]). [No, I was not named from a combination of their names.] So after seeing this, I decided that I want to become famous enough so that my name (that I thought was fairly unique that I wouldn't have this problem) will not be overshadowed by an attempted killer and an actress who I don't really like. Yes, this is kind of self-centered, but I don't care. I'm not adding this to my list of New Years Resolutions because I think this is going to take more than just a year. It took Jodie Foster a life-time to become a famous actress, and it took John Hinckley a lifetime of craziness to decide he wanted to assassinate the president before he became infamous. Plus, I don't consider this to be like the "I'm going to lose weight," "I'm going to be a better person," and "I'm giving up my vices and going back to school" (RENT, anyone?).

This is "As We Stumble Along" from The Drowsy Chaperone. It stars Bob Martin as the "Man in Chair," Sutton Foster as "Janet van de Graff," and Beth Leavel as the "Drowsy Chaperone." Hilarious. The whole show is like this. Too bad it closed... Well, enjoy! 

BAM!

What you want

I feel like I have to write about this morning's events. I am woken up early this morning by the sounds of Christmas decorations being taken out of the attic, which is right next to my room. [We have an awkward attic.] I go back to sleep. I wake up around non, and I smell an awkward smelling food. I go downstairs to check it out, and it turns out to be steak and baked potatoes. Ok cool. I'm kind of baffled at how the smell was awkward, but whatever. So I begin fixing my plate up with food, and my dad begins to talk about college. How wonderful. 

Let me lay out part of the conversation:

Dad - "So I hear that you are going to change your major to Music Education?"

Me - "Yeah. I was thinking about it."

Dad - "Ok. So here's what I want you to do. If you do this, I want you to forget about teaching high school. I want you teach college."

I continue fixing my baked potato, and I say "You know you need a Masters for that, maybe even a PhD?"

Dad - "Yes. I want you to get your masters."

Me - Thinking in my head: "No. Nope. Nuh uh. No thanks. No." What comes out of my mouth: "I'll talk to my advisor."

I am kind of tired of talking about this whole subject, but I need to get my thoughts out. So, here goes, I guess:

I do not like being a Music Industry major. I am failing the class that is the base of music industry. If I cannot pass this class, how am I supposed to graduate? To tell you the truth, I had no idea what it was until I started classes. [Obviously, I did my homework on my colleges like a responsible person. Ha!] Honestly, I had no interest in it from the beginning. My parents wanted me to sign up for it. I did it with the intention of changing it before anything could happen. I even told the people at the audition (somebody in the music office and the table full of people/judges/music teachers who listened to me sing) that I what major I was down for was not the major I wanted to take. I wanted to be a Vocal Performance major. Guess what, nobody did anything to fix it, and I ended up doing what I don't want to do. So, now I am trying to fix the mess that I am in. I came up with changing my major to Music Ed. I kind of always figured that I would end up being a choir director, no matter how much I didn't want to be. Why am I doing this to myself when I know what I want? I know every time I talk about changing my major, I try to figure out a way to get to what I want. I know it would be really bad if I changed to Music Ed then change it again and transfer to a different college. I think it would be easier if I just cut out the middle man (Music Ed.).

Since I've said something like "honestly" 2 times already, lets get real honest. I kind of settled on Loyola. I didn't apply to any schools with the major that I wanted (Music Theater, of course), except for Tulane, but in all seriousness, there was no way I was going to go to Tulane. 

I just have to say that I love Loyola. I have finally gotten comfortable with it. I love that it has a home-like atmosphere, it is close to home (which is probably not the best thing for me), I have friends near by, MTO is amazing, and I have made wonderful new friends that I will love forever. O yeah! Plus, it is a great music school from which I have learned a lot. But now is the time that I have to decide whether or not Loyola is right for me and for what I want.

Now that reality has slapped me in the face, which I definitely needed, I now realize if "what I want" is truly what I want. Then I have to figure out what is preventing me from achieving it. So I have to break through those barriers that are preventing me from this, even if it means being on bad terms with my parents, having to leave my amazing friends, and starting all over and being alone in a new city and state.

Now is the perfect time to think. The Christmas break will give me plenty of enough time to think. No pressure of school or work. Just thinking, and maybe some reading on the side. This time I am taking things more seriously. Once I figure things out, My plan is: If I decide Loyola is not right for me, I will apply and audition for next year (2009-2010). I'm going to cram it all into 1 semester. I'm gonna try to be smart about this so everything will work out. If I decide it is, I am probably going to keep with the idea of Music Ed. But who knows what I will decide? i will keep you updated.

Here is Kerry Butler singing "Gee Wiz" on Seth Rudetsky's Broadway Chatterbox. I think this was from around the time she was in Hairspray. Listen to this girl's belt. Fucking blows my mind every time.

I promise my next post will be more enjoyable, probably of this weekend's events.

BAM!

Christmas too soon?

I know everyone has noticed that everything Christmas has been showing up in life like weeks too early. Most of the time, Christmas commercials, sales, etc. all start showing up at Thanksgiving or just before it.  So why does this year have to be different? I remember Casi saying, "because of the economy, they are pushing Christmas early." I think she is right, but I think it's a little odd getting into the Christmas spirit before you can think about enjoying your Thanksgiving dinner. I think Thanksgiving would be a little jealous that Christmas is encroaching in on it's allotted holiday time.

I think this Christmas is gonna be a little crazier than others I have experienced. Not just because of the economy, but for these reasons: 

1. Little family spats. One "fight" between my dad and his cousin made our Thanksgiving plans a little awkward this year. We didn't know what the hell we were doing until yesterday, and then again today, plans changed. Hope it goes better at Christmas.

2. Whit (my brother) & his girlfriend are going out of town for Christmas. They are going Melissa's (my brother's girlfriend) house in Texas for Christmas. Because of this, we are going to celebrate our household Christmas early. Now, I have to plan ahead and make sure to get their gifts early on, so no last minute shopping for me. Also, our Christmas day is going to be a little less exciting because of their absence.

3. Deciding if I should just get gifts for my family or get gifts for everyone I care about in addition to my family. I'm not usually a gift giving person, even for birthdays. I just like being there for the person's birthday, making it a happy one. Personally, I think that makes a birthday.

4. Figuring what gifts to get. This is the hard part. What should I get for everyone? What does dad like? What does mom need? What does Whit want? What would Melissa like? Then, I have to think about my extended family. My 4 grandparents, my 2 cousins, cousin's fiancee, and their 11-month-old daughter. Now, I can't pull the "Oh, their extended family. They won't mind. They probably won't even notice." Well, I can't. We celebrate Christmas Eve and open gifts with them. [No, we don't wait til Christmas morning to open gifts.]

5. Figuring out what I want for Christmas. Now, this is the big one. I don't really know what I want. I can think of a few things I would like, but I don't need them. For, example, I would like an Touch iPod or an iPhone, but I don't really need them. I have a working iPod video, and my phone is kind of new. [Would July be considered new?]. So you see my predicament? Very soon, my family will start asking me what I want for Christmas. Actually, I was home maybe 5 minutes yesterday before my mom asked me what I wanted. So there you go. Then, sometime next week, my family is going to be asking my mom (and maybe my dad) what I want so they can figure out what to get.

Now, don't get me wrong. I love getting presents at Christmas just as much as the next person, and  I would feel extremely left out if I didn't get any gifts. Also I'm not trying to be a Scroog, but how did we get to the "4AM store openings on the morning after Thanksgiving" when it is just the FIRST DAY of Christmas shopping? Why do we worry ourselves over the material aspects of Christmas? How did we ever get that worked up over gifts at Christmas? What ever happened to "the meaning of Christmas"? [Yes, I'm a bad Catholic and an agnostic, but that is besides the point.]

So as not to leave everyone down on an awkwardly, kind of depressing blog about Christmas, here is "The Llama Song." It makes me laugh so much. I promise you will love it.

BAM!

Break time!

I'm blogging because Katie said I can do anything during my scheduled breaks, which she is setting up right now, so this is what I decided to do with my free time. She said I have to work on my paper and nothing else except during my scheduled breaks. Talk about a paper nazi! But I need a paper nazi, so snaps for Katie! 

Haha!! I'm listening to "Can't Keep it Down" in the library, and I just literally lol-ed. Yeah, random...

So I got to see a lot of my high school friends this weekend. It was amazing!! I got to see most of the DHS girls at Instant Theater. I saw, Alexis, Rachel, Victoria, Peryn, Monique and the Amanda half of Salamanda. God Damn do I miss all of them!! I feel like I've been in my college bubble. Back to my story. Some girls really surprised me in the show. They were better than I expected. Oh yeah! They are doing FAME for the spring musical this year. That's so exciting. I wish I could do the show again this year... *tear* Miracles can happen, right [This is not going to be a depressing blog. I promise.] After the show, we got drunk. Those stories I don't think I will write about because I don't have enough time in my scheduled break, but they are pretty funny. [I know! I'm such a tease.] Then, last night I saw the NOCCA show, and as expected, it was amazing. I got to see them after the show! I've never been more excited to be at NOCCA than at that moment, to see Janie, Sarah, Ashley Rose, Salamanda, Josh, Tyler, and so many more. God Damn I miss my younger friends. This is one of those times I wish I was born just 1 year later than I was.

Wow. I'm kinda ADD today.

Here's a video of Leslie Kritzer & Shoshana Bean singing "I Got the Money" back when they were at the University if Cincinnati's College Conservatory of Music in 1999. I think this song was just an excuse to show off Leslie & Shoshana's AMAZING belting abilities.

Oh yeah! I decided that I'm going end each blog (after my traditional youtube video) with a "BAM!" because I have been saying it kind of a lot. So....

BAM!

I Hate Music Industry

So I have a 10-page paper due Monday, and I have about 2 pages done. I'm just not in the mood to write it right now. So, I'm gonna blog:

Reasons why i don't want to do this paper:

1. I don't know what I'm writing about, but at least this paper is teaching me how to bull shit, a.k.a. "fluff."

2. I fucking hate the class.

3. I hate Music Industry as my major. I never chose it. I thought I changed it before I even started school, but NOPE.

4. I have never had to write any type of paper longer than 4 pages. 10 PAGES?! ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME?! Nobody should think in their heads "well, it's college" because that is bullshit. Plus, nobody wants to read 10 pages on boring music industry subjects, not even the teacher!

5. I don't have time for this bullshit. I have OTHER homework I could be working on/avoiding. I actually have a life.

Ways I have avoided doing this paper:

1. Facebook.

2. Twitter.

3. Conversations about sex.

4. Ridiculously long video comment threads.

5. Shopping for winter jackets at Buffalo Exchange and Funky Monkey.

6. Setting up "play dates" to make new friends. [I laughed my ass off as I wrote that last line.]

Things I could be dong other than this paper:

1. Having sex with Blythe. [Just kidding. *Shakes head when she looks away*]

2. Sleeping.

3. Watch TV, specifically Charmed, Family Guy, & Grey's Anatomy

4. Playing Ultimate UNO

5. Taking a shit [Shout-out to Amy! Holla!]

6. Making friends.

7. Getting drunk.

8. Living my life.

How much this paper is a waste of my time (See the lists above).

So I felt like I needed to end this blog with a big ending; BAM!

I tried to find a video of "An Original Musical" from Title of Show because it seems so appropriate to my present situation, but I couldn't find the video with the original cast. So, this will just have to do. This is an amazing video of Brian d'Arcy James, Julia Murney, and Taye Diggs singing "Make Me Happy" from the Wild Party (Lippa). Random show fact: Idina Menzel (Taye Digg's wife) is also in the show, but she is not in the song.  Brian's role of Burrs is my dream role (as of right now). Enjoy!

Here we go again

So, I started some drama. I don't usually do this. 

Let's start from the beginning. I had a long week of classes, homework, and rehearsals. Thursday, I had class, a tiring performance (where I gave my all [you can watch the videos on Facebook]), a (long, hot, sweaty) choir concert, and more homework. That night I said made a comment that wasn't necessarily mean, but the way I said it, it came off mean. I later apologized for it with no response. I attempt to reconcile 2 days later, and they are not mad. No. Apparently, I am just aggravating this person. I have not really seen or talked with this person in a couple weeks. How could something I do, aggravate them? They say "it's complicated," and after much fighting, all i get is a comparison to another relationship with this person that is not always good but is at the moment (which was not explained at all), the fact that I don't think before I speak, and the fact that I am living in "Jody world." First, let me say I do think before I speak. Sometimes, I don't (like Thursday), but MOST of the time I do. Now on to "Jody World." Everything I smell, hear, say, or do  is a part of "Jody World." It's like that for everybody. Think about it. Everything that happens is a part of the world that (literally, from your eyes) is surrounded around you. You are not a part of the world around you. You are the center of things around you. This is not supposed to be sounding egotistical or self-centered (in a bad way [no pun intended]). It is just a theory of how a person views the world. After more pointless fighting, this person gives up and signs off (yes, this was on AIM).

Understand that this conversation blew up in a short amount of time, and part of that is my fault for pushing it. Is it wrong to make something a bigger deal than it should be because something good will come of it? [Yes, I am positive something good will come of it.] Personally, I think it is ok. I did this for growth and understanding, so I think I am in the right this time. 

Let's move on to something a bit lighter: Shrek was just on TBS right now. It is such a good movie. The musical is gonna be awesome too. I can't wait to see it! Well, I hope I get to see it.

Keeping up with the Shrek theme. Here's another video from the previews of Shrek the Musical. It has an awesome tap section in it, probably written in for Sutton Foster. I love this stuff!

Just a hold-over

This is just to hold you guys over.

The MTO Recital Hour is tomorrow. Rehearsal was great, but very tiring. I'll tell you about it later.

I don't care about the cockroach, Dani. Grow some balls, and kill it! It shouldn't be hard, since you are technically are a gay man. O btw, I do too kill cockroaches!!

I'm really tired right now, and I'm looking forward to my shower. I don't know why, but I've been looking forward to showering everyday. The showers aren't especially good or anything. I just crave showering throughout the day.

I could have sworn I had posted this on my blog before, but I guess I haven't. Here's "I Know Its Today" from Shrek the Musical. It kinda gives Princess Fiona a backstory. So fucking awesome. Go Sutton Foster!!

Hello again

Hi blog! Sorry it has been so long since I have blogged. life has just been busy. I will try to recount what has happened since I have last written. This might be a long one, so bear with me.

Last time I blogged, I was on my way home from Natchitoches. The day after (Sunday), I saw High School Musical 3. I have to admit, it was pretty good. The choreography was amazing, and the singing was pretty good too. Then I had to prepare for MTO's Halloween-themed Underground performance. I have to say, we were DAMN GOOD. I think all of the songs are on YouTube HERE. Check them out. One of the many highlights from that night was Time Warp (I don't think it's on YouTube for some reason, but it is on Facebook!). In the middle of the song, I stripped off my big leather jacket to reveal my tight jazz pants and mesh shirt. That is huge for me. People who were there were crazy surprised to see me do that. I can confidently say that that was definitely the top highlight of the night (besides the amazing singing).

Skip to Halloween! I got to see Monique for like an hour because she needed my help and she wanted to see me because she missed me (and I miss her). So, our original plans for that night were to go to House of Shock, meet up at Loyola after, and go downtown to Bourbon and Frenchman. Somehow, our plans were destroyed. But we made it work (Tim Gunn, anyone?). Blythe, Kaleb, Katie, and I ended up going to House of Shock. Katie was dressed up as a she-devil on the DL, Blythe was a bunny, Kaleb was Aladdin, and I was a dead raver (my way of wearing the mesh shirt and glow sticks without looking stupid). We were pretty cool. After HoS, Katie, Blythe, and I tried going downtown. We tried parking for like 20-30 minutes with no luck, so we gave up and went back to Loyola. We chilled in my dorm for like 10 minutes, then crashed. The next day, I worked on my paper for 4 hours and only got 2 of the pages 10 done. Then, Casi & Katie cooked in the tiny dorm floor kitchen. It was SOO GOOD. Later that night, we went to an Improv show, which was hilarious. They used like 3 or 4 of the quotes we gave, like "Let me see that thong" and "Gimme your hand, bitch!" What a good day. Oh yea! After, we went to Tucks. It was alright. Sketchy and full of people. I have to say, I love it when Casi is drunk. She's funny to watch. Hahaha. The next day (Monday), I found out the 10 page paper I was supposed to finish by that Wednesday was not actually due til the end of the month! What a fucking relief!! 

Then this past Wednesday, some of the Loyola vocal students (including me) went to NATS, which is a vocal competition. Blythe and I made it through to semi-finals with most of the Loyola group, and 3 of the Loyola people placed in the finals. Props to them. Good times were had, even if we were in Natchitoches, LA where everything closes at 10PM, except for the 24/7 Walmart. Thursday (the 1st night) we went to Walmart for dinner because everything else was closed. It was a good choice. We got some good food. Friday after we found out who made it to the final round and after some delicious Pizza Hut, one of the Loyola hotel rooms had a small party. That was the highlight of the trip. Fun stories came from that night that you wouldn't really understand unless you were there or if I took the time to explain it, which I am not.

Now we are on to the present day. After todays classes and a rehearsal for the MTO Recital Hour performance (which is this Thursday during the Loyola "window"), I finally have the chance to rest. I don't really have anything to do. No real homework, no papers that I HAVE to work on. I finally have a chance to chill. I love it. And this is what I spend my free time doing, blogging. Feel good about yourself.

Something to look forward to: Loyola University Chorus Concert Thursday night @ 7:30PM in Loyola's Rousell Hall. I thought there was more, but there isn't. Sorry.

Umm... earlier, I thought I had something I wanted to write about, but I'm too tired from remembering what has happened these past 2 weeks. Maybe the next blog will be about that. Tomorrow afternoon shouldn't be busy either. Well, except for MTO Recital Hour rehearsal. Whatever. Maybe you'll get lucky, and I'll write another blog. Only time will tell...

Like my cliff hanger?

"All Girl Band" Girls of UMich (class of '07?)

On the road again...

It’s 11:45 AM, and my family and I are on our way back to New Orleans from our hotel in Alexandria.

I just have to say the Baymont Hotel is probably one of the best hotels that I have ever stayed.  It was spacious, had a huge bathroom, comfortable beds, a flat screen TV, free wireless Internet. [I sound like an Expedia commercial.] The best part was that I got a whole room to myself, which was especially good because of the late night phone calls I got.

Dinner with my family was nice. Besides my grandparents, I saw mom’s younger brother. His family couldn’t come in for the dinner. I haven’t seen them in maybe 2 years. I also saw my mom’s youngest brother & his family who I haven’t seen in like 5 years. We were at the restaurant for over 3 hours. I think that’s just a little ridiculous. My grandparents were very happy to see everyone in one place and all at once. It was good to see my family, but it was still a little awkward. There were a few quiet moments. For example, my 19-year-old cousin got his girlfriend pregnant last year right around his graduation, and he, his wife, and child were all at the dinner. My family would joke about it, and my brother (he’s 23 and the oldest grandchild) was like “Damn, I always thought I would be the 1^st to have a kid.” My grandmother was like “Nowadays, you have to race to that finish line.” Then, she looks to me and says “You could beat your brother to it,” and I respond with very wide and surprised eyes, “Nuh uh!” I turned away and thought to myself “Haha. If you only knew...” And later, I was responding to a text, and my a couple people noticed. My mom asked, “what are you doing over there?” and my uncle responds, “practicing milking a cow.” My grandmother responds, “you can go buy you some milk from the grocery store” (what a senile response). Then, my uncle (who’s family was not able to come) says something about how all the girls I’m talking too are listed from Y to K on my phone (what the hell?), and he says to reverse it. A KY Jelly joke! Seriously? Wow. He better be glad he’s the cool uncle. Oh, my family… Later during the dinner, my aunt (married to my other uncle) plays the (10 minute) slideshow of pictures throughout my grandparents’ lives and tons of pictures of their children, their grandchildren (just in case you aren’t completely following, that is me, my brother, & cousins), and their great-grandchild. All in all, the night was really nice.

After we checked out of our hotel this morning, we stopped at both sets of my dad’s grandparent’s gravesites. They were in 2 different cemeteries. I learned some family history, which was nice, but we didn’t stay long, which was a little odd to me. I remember visiting the gravesites a LONG time ago, and it took FOREVER. But we stayed maybe 2 minutes. Weird. When we got in the car after visiting the cemeteries, my dad says “Now, let’s get some pie!” Hahaha. My family is so odd.

Last night was a party that I really wanted to go to. I wanted to go SO BAD. Thankfully, I got a couple phone calls, 2 of which were drunk calls. [My computer just told me that the way I used “drunk” is incorrect. It should be “drunken,” but I don’t really care. My grammar checker can suck it!] Those phone calls made me feel really good. I’m glad y’all thought of me while y’all were having fun and getting drunk. I will be there next time. Nothing is going to stop me. But in an odd way, I needed to not go. I needed to see my family. I needed to not go out and get drunk. This just means that next weekend I am going to have a shitload of fun, especially since Friday is Halloween. “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”

I've decided to make my random youtube video a permanent occurrence for my blog. I might've shown this video to you already, but whatever. You should watch it again. It's awesome! This video convinced me that I have to see Shrek the Musical next time I go to New York (I hope it's soon.). This is the scene from Shrek where Princess Fiona is getting ready to marry Lord Farquaad. This is Sutton Foster singing "More to the Story" from the Seattle previews of Shrek the Musical:

Normalcy

It’s around 1:00 pm, and I’m on the road with my family right now. We are driving to Natchitoches, LA (Google it) for my grandparent’s 50^th anniversary dinner. I think almost everyone on my mom’s side of the family is supposed to be there. If you’ve been following my blog for a while, you might remember that I evacuated to my grandparent’s house for Hurricane Gustav. Now, I haven’t seen the rest of my family in a long time. It’s going to be nice to see them and meet my cousin’s new baby. But in all honesty, I don’t want to go. I know that sounds horrible. I don’t know why, but in my life, my friends rank above my family. Geez, I’m horrible…. but w/e. Back on track. Instead of seeing family I love but don’t see very much, I could be working on my 10-page paper, sleeping, homework, or most importantly hanging out my friends (like Burt & Erika, who came in for the weekend to be with friends, but not many people are in town. They have great timing.).  My point. I don’t want to spend the weekend with my family, which I’m sure most teenagers would feel the same way. Normal. Right?

Maybe it’s because I watched too much TV and too many movies, but since I was little, I wanted to have a “normal” life. I wanted to walk to school. I wanted to be good at sports. I wanted to be “popular” (oh, middle & high school…). I wanted the girl that I liked to like me. I wanted a real neighborhood (not a cul-de-sac) with lots of kids my age to play with. I wanted to live in a house we would always go through the front door, and the back door led to the back yard. And then when I grew up, I wanted to get married and have a couple of kids, and give them the normal life I would’ve had.

Now, I’m not saying that I didn’t like my life. I loved it. I had friends on my street and at school. I mean I wasn’t a complete loser. I just liked theatre. I went to great schools, and I’m fairly smart because of them. My house was beautiful. I had my own room (still do). I wouldn’t be who I am or where I am if it weren’t for the life I was give or for the experiences I have had. As for the future, I still want to find someone, get married, and have kids. Unfortunately, the future is unknown to everyone, so I think it is best to just go with the flow.

Well, I was thinking yesterday. I am not “normal.” Like, at all. I love musical theatre. Pick a random person off the street, and I can almost guarantee that they know almost nothing compared to what I know about Broadway and musical theatre. I don’t know much about other types of music. I don’t socialize well with people who aren’t somewhat associated with some type of music, dance, or theater. Some might think this weird or bad, but I totally love it. It’s who I am. Why would I want to change? I said this in the last paragraph, but I just want to say it again. I wouldn’t be who I am or where I am if it weren’t for the life I was give or for the experiences I have had. I have no regrets. I may not be “normal,” and I can almost guarantee that I will not be “normal” in the future. But you know what? I don’t want to change. I like where I am. I like who I am.

I’m going to end with this: What is “normal?” What makes someone or something normal? Why do I (and probably some other people) want to be normal? What’s the fun in being average and normal when you can be different and stand out in the world?

Here: my random video for the blog:

Random thoughts from this weekend

Here are some random thoughts I have had this weekend that I wanted to write down:

- "Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist" is an awesome movie. It's one of the classic stories with a modern twist. Usually they turn out bad, but this one turned out really well.

- I want to see the "Sex and the City" movie. A preview from "Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist" reminded me. Plus, I want to see Annaleigh Ashford as the label queen for those like 6 seconds.

- I don't like talking to my parents about anything important. It's just awkward. I feel the disappointment rush over me when I try to be honest with them. I'm tired of being the good (fake) Councilman's son. That's not me. I'm different. I can't be what you want me to be. I'm gonna be me. This is one of the reasons why I don't call you or why we don't ever talk or hang out ever.

- Why does a person want something else when what they have is almost perfect for them? Why must they want that something else?

-I really hate my ringtones. I need to buy some new ones.

- I like to watch the "Tomb Raider" and "The Mummy" movies over and over again. I'm not sure why, but I love it.

Random video:

I'm not big on politics, but this is hilarious. This is Leslie Kritzer. She's an amazing singer. Look her up.

Surprise!

[This blog took me a while to write. I was very ADD this week.]

Sunday, I had just got back from hanging out at home, and I was cleaning my dorm in the silence. Soon after, I turned my ipod on. I don't like the quiet, unless I'm asleep. A quiet room feels weird. During the silence, I started thinking. No, not the bad, depressing type of thinking. I was thinking about how much I have changed since I graduated. 

I've really surprised myself. I'm a lot freer now. I'm more comfortable with myself.  I feel like I am being me. I've made a new circle of friends that I talk to almost daily. (I have not forgotten my BMHS circle. I miss and love you guys!) Also, I'm closer with friends that I barely hung out with before. It's crazy. I thought that I would only be friends with Loyola people once I started college, but I love that I'm still good friends with my friends who are still in high school. But also, a lot of this feeling has come from this weekend. I finally went and drank at a bar for the first time, which I was kind of nervous about. Idk why, but I was. To sum up that night in general: It was a great night. That's all I'm gonna say.

So I just finished my midterms. They weren't too bad. I actually only had 2. The Into to music industry midterm most of the class failed. I'm not too worried about the grade because there is supposed to be a grade curve. My music theory midterm was separated into 2 parts. The first part was a musicianship exam. This I was worried about. I'm not exactly sure why. I know this stuff. I was fine until about 5 minutes before I had to go in. I was going over some info, and I totally blanked. That's when I started to freak out. Thankfully, Andy walked by and distracted me. Thank you Andy. I needed that. That half of the midterm went fairly well. The second half of the midterm was a timed written test. I  knew what I was doing most of the time. The time kind of killed me. Whatever. I did what I could. I just hope it is good enough to get a good grade.

On to the fun stuff: I finally got a TV for my dorm today(Thursday)!! I had to rearrange some of the stuff in my room. The whole combination of things makes my room a lot more comfortable. I might actually have people come hang out now.

Also, today I have MTO rehearsal for the Avenue Q section of our Recital Hour performance. I'm excited because I get to be Princeton in "Everyone's a Little Bit Racist" and "I wish I Could Go Back to College." Yay!

In general, I'm happy with life right now.

-----

I know I'm a little late, but let's take a moment of silence for the closing of [Title of Show] on Broadway.

You wrote an original musical. You became more than just 9 people's favorite thing. You made it to Broadway! You did the impossible! Snaps to you! We'll miss you!!

The greatest thing...

I was just watching Moulin Rouge. I know that sounds really gay, but I don't care. I love that movie.

So, there are 2 things that really get me in this movie:

1. El Tango de Roxanne.

 

That scene is so powerful, so intense. You can feel the emotion cross the TV screen and smack you in the face. At least, that's the way it is for me. The vocals by Ewan McGregor are freaking amazing. Plus, the choreography and dancing are outstanding!!

2. The scene of Satine's death. 

This scene is one of the few that has ever gotten me emotionally. The last time I watched it I full out cried. I am not a crier. Seriously, I think I have cried maybe 4 times in the past 5 years.

So crying to a movie is huge for me. Not one of my friends has ever made me cry. One broke the seal that was holding me back from crying, but none ever made me cry for any real reason.

Yes, I realize this is a movie, and it is not REALLY real. But even fiction has to come from somewhere. This world is huge. Somewhere out there is a scene like this going on. Not the whole fact that she is a hooker and he is a writer, and the play/musical/show mirrors the story of their love. Just someone losing someone they love unconditionally. It probably happens everyday. This is probably why it touches the soul.

This scene really puts things into perspective for me. Like for 1 brief moment, they were completely happy. Then, the curtain closed, and then Satine's life began to drift away. Compared to death and the loss of love, my problems seem so small. I know I have complained about not having that someone who will love me for me, etc. I can't expect to have that person now. I'm 18! I have barely begun really living life.

While Satine is dying, the crowd on the other side of the curtain is still cheering, and beyond that, the rest of the world is continuing on with their lives. But at the same time the world has darkened and slowed in mourning. It really puts into perspective how small our lives are compared to the world as a whole, but at the same time for OUR world inside the world, we are HUGE. We affect everything and everyone around us. We are a major factor in the lives of others that are around us and who are close to us. Don't take that for granted.

In her last few moments, Satine was able to tell Christian he should go on and tell the story of their love, she will always be with him, and that most of all she loved him. He does this, and writes about the "love that will live forever." That is the most touching moment I ever witnessed. Yes, I know it is just a movie. But I think that this is what (almost) everyone wants: someone to love and to love them through all of the struggles ("Come What May"), through death, and live on forever. I know it won't happen soon, but I hope one day I will have a love like that. A true, honest, kind love that is meant to be, with no major flaws (everything has it's problems), and will continue through the struggles, through death, and continue on into forever.

"The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return."

I just felt like it

Again, I just felt the urge to blog:

Long day today, but it wasn't bad. Voice Lab got canceled, so I actually got to eat lunch today. My piano test went well, probably because I had the whole class time to practice for it and 10 minutes after class to wait to take it. I didn't have to present in my Intro to Music Industry Studies class, but I have a midterm and part of a project due Wednesday (Shit. I'm gonna fail, but whatever). I'm so glad I skipped my Music Industry Forum to go to MTO RENT rehearsals. It was needed. We got lots of stuff done.  I think it will be good, so come see it!

Random change of topic: I am apparently getting skinnier. I'm not really complaining, but I've had a few people point it out recently. My mom tells me that every once in a while, but that's what moms do. My voice teacher points it out (somewhat derogatorily) at every lesson. I guess in his mind you have to be kind of fat to be a good/proper singer. But not until recent had I really thought anything about it. I have these jeans that I got for Christmas (2 years ago?) from my cousin, and they were kinda tight so I didn't wear them that often. I tried them on today to see if I would want to wear them for my RENT performance. And to my surprise they are loose like my regular jeans. I know a lot of people strive to have this problem, but for some reason, it makes me a little self-conscious. This is so weird. This could not have happened since August. I mean, I thought was supposed to avoid the freshman 15, not lose 15 as a freshman (which I haven't, just for the record). So let me say this once: I am not anorexic, bulimic, or have any type of eating disorder. I'm just small.

I don't exactly know why I just went on a tangent about that, it's just been bugging me a little.

warning: turn away now

I felt the need to blog again. I'm not in the best mood, so if you don't want to read something that might bring you down, stop reading now. 

I'm feeling weird today. I think part of it is because I am getting sick. Not fun. I don't know why, but I'm feeling emotionally vulnerable today (It may be because I saw RENT today, which was damn good, with some exceptions). It's so weird. I'm not sure I like it.

Shit. I have a lot to do. I have a crap-load of homework and things to do for tomorrow: turn in a form and take notes for World Religions, intervals to study for Music Theory, a test in Piano, a presentation in Music Industry, and figure out costumes for MTO's "A Tribute to RENT" (see my previous blog for info) for our dress rehearsal. This is all for tomorrow. In addition to this, I have 3 other classes tomorrow (8 total. I'm skipping my last class. It's pointless.), something to do for Music Industry for Wednesday (I'm not sure what, though), and I have to get together with some people to go over songs and blocking for our RENT-thing. Chyea... that's a lot.

Have you ever been happy about something one day and not be the next day? It's weird. I don't understand it. But for some reason unknown to me, we all go through it.

I drank twice this weekend. I don't think it was a good idea. The 1st time was fine, but the 2nd was not good. I was a mess. [Note to self: no more vodka shots (aka Opah!'s with Rachel).] So because of this weekend's event's, I've decided I cannot get drink more than once a weekend, and when I do drink, I have to take my time. I will not go overboard again.

This is such a weird blog. I blame my mood. If only I could explain it....

I warned you.

I felt the need...

I felt the need to blog because I don't get to blog very much anymore. I think I've only been blogging on the weekends. I blame school for that.

College. Recently, people have been asking, "How's college?" Honestly, I don't really know. I feel like I'm too worried about going to classes, doing homework, and practicing that I don't really have a chance to really enjoy college. In between the things that I listed above, I sleep, eat, and go to Loyola's MTO (Musical Theater Organization) rehearsal.  I don't really feel like I'm soaking it all in. The one time I really feel like I just get to hang out and be myself and feel like I'm really in college is in one of my Monday classes where we don't do anything, thank you Mr. Dreux. I know this sounds like I'm complaining, but surprisingly, I'm not. I'm happy with my life. I know. What a 180 degree turn. Idk. It brings me back to high school when I was in a show. I was busy with everything I was doing, and I had like 4 groups of friends (Sadly, I don't have that many close friends anymore, but hey. It's a part of life). The fact that I was so busy with things and craving refuge from my stress by being with people I love kept me alive. No, I am not talking about suicide (I'm not like that). I am talking metaphorically.  It's like an electrifying jolt. It feels so good. 

Does that make any sense? Whatever. If it doesn't and you really want to know, I'll explain it to you in person.

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Oh! Here's my plug for this blog:

You all should come see Loyola's MTO's performance of "A Tribute to RENT" on Wednesday, October 8th at 8pm in Satchamo's (the Underground of the Dana Center). It features some of your favorite people you probably know: ME (Jody Hinkley), Blythe Reed, Casi Landix, Jordan Queen, Rachel deJonge, Dody Nolan, and some others new to New Orleans musical theater community. We are doing some of the songs we have all know and love. It's free, but if you would like to donate money, go right ahead. :-D

So come support Loyola's MTO!!

Fun Fun Fun

Last night was lots of fun, hence the blog title. I was a little hesitant about it, but it worked out really well. People had fun. I let go of my inhibitions and had fun. Yes, we were under the influence of alcohol (and a couple others were a little high, too), but that is besides the point. It was a great night.

But I have 1 thing I want to talk about. Why do people let go of their inhibitions when they drink? Why can't we let go and be who we are without any help from alcohol (or weed)? Like last night, everyone of us had pure fun. I, for the first time of my life, made out with more than 1 person in 1 night. I believe it was 6 people. I know 6 people would be kind of ridiculous if I were sober, but why can't I ever kiss or make out with someone I like on like the 2nd or 3rd date? Like, I dated this girl for a while, and we never kissed. [Actually, I have never made out with anyone before, but thats besides the point.] Opposite of that, I get drunk 1 night and make out with 6 people. Shouldn't that be the other way around? I'm not saying I didn't like the events of last night. I'm not lying when I say I did like it. I'm just wondering why couldn't I get the courage to kiss a girl that I like, but I can make out with 6 different people. I'm going to work on that.  You know what? Maybe this moment of slutty-ness will help me with my inability to make a move on anyone that I like. Maybe last night can help me break down that wall that is holding me back from what I want., or maybe I can just be a slut because that is the only way I will be close to anybody. Hmmm... I think I'm gonna test both of them, and then we'll see which is better for me.

My advice to you: go after what you want.

WHAT. THE. FUCK. ?

I feel like I've been neglecting my blog for a little while. I'm sorry, blog. I just don't know what to write about.

Actually, I think I found a topic. So, I don't know if you've heard, but Broadway shows are starting to close which is killing me softly.  Actually, it's like stabbing me in the heart with a fork and then grinding it with a cheese grater.  So, [Title of Show] is set to close on October 12th, but they are fighting along with the TOSSERS to keep the show alive on Broadway. Seriously, why would you want to close this show? Even if you did want to close it, why would you want to close it so soon? They have worked their asses off for this. Their story of hope in dreams that eventually come true is what everybody dreams of. EVERYBODY! Also, Xanadu was set to close on October 12th, but because they want to "avoid the losses in the current economic climate," they decided to push the closing date to September 28th. This Sunday?! WTF, people?! Are you trying to kill me? Then to ice the cake, Legally Blonde is set to close October 19th. My favorite musicals are closing, and there is no way that I will ever be able to see them because I don't have the money or time to take a spontaneous vacation to New York, pay full priced tickets (bc I have to make sure I will definitely see the shows), and get school work done.  GGGGGGAAAAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! Now all I will have is the musical's CDs, and the youtube videos. These will have to last me the rest of my life... *tear*  I think I will make the day each show closes a memorial day. I will listen and sing only the songs from the show. Hopefully, [TOS] won't close (at least, not until I see it in person), and I can live a little bit longer and happier. *knock on wood*

You thought I was kidding when I said I was obsessed with Broadway? Well, you thought wrong.

Here's my Homage (/mini collage) to 3 of my favorite Broadway musicals ever. Cue the sappy "I will always remember you" music