It's all about ME!

[ladymelissa]

I decided to start a journal b/c our life is getting so exciting with the holidays and all. Mike and I were married on June 3rd and life has been fabulous.

We are hosting Thanksgiving this year and I am psyched about that. All the food and wine have been purchased, I still need to get some beer to offer. I bought beautiful table linens and have a gorgeous centerpiece in mind. The tablecloths are black satin with a black velvet design on them and the napkins are a very light cream color, almost just a warmer white.

For the centerpiece I think we will use our penguin candle holder, the penguin holds 2 tapers in his "hands," we also used this as our u-candle in the wedding. I will probably put him on a mirror base and bought these crystals to sprinkle around.

Tonight I will make the cranberries and squash and refrigerate or maybe freeze them and we also plan to go Christmas tree shopping. We would like to have the tree set up b/c we may not have all these people back over during the holidays. I still haven't decided on a color scheme. I am torn between deep, wine red and rich, classic gold (not the yellow looking gold) or white and silver with maybe some blue (or pink). In any event we will use all white lights.

My wedding dress finally went to the cleaners today and it will be back in about 6 weeks.

My current production of Out Of Site...Out Of Murder in which I play Kay Kelsey, the ingénue, opens in December and that is really coming together. It's a comedy on murder mysteries and is really well written. Most of the characters are fictional characters within the novel that the lead (Peter Knight) is working on, so they are larger than life and so much fun to do. We all know our lines and characters and now it's time to work on pacing and smoothing it out.

[WhiskeyGirl]

Glad to see that you're starting an after wedding journal! I look forward to reading updates on you and your DH. Have fun decorating for Christmas and getting the tree up!! :D

[cowboysbride]

L O V E the title of you journal! You go girl! The linens sound beautiful and the food sounds yummy...knowing you it will be a smash hit! Good luck!

Yay for a new journal!:pompom:

[ladymelissa]

Glad to see that you're starting an after wedding journal! I look forward to reading updates on you and your DH. Have fun decorating for Christmas and getting the tree up!! :D

Thanks! Hopefully, it will all come together beautifully and I'll have some post-worthy pics!

[WhiskeyGirl]

Thanks! Hopefully, it will all come together beautifully and I'll have some post-worthy pics!

I know for a fact that you will, you're a very posh and sophisticated lady from what I've learned about you and I know that your decorations will be just gorgeous!! :D Can't wait to see them!

[Goin2thechapel]

Melissa,

Sounds like your thanksgiving is going to look beautiful. You better get some pics up of your tree...Your soo talented, I just might steal some ideas from you ;)

[BriansBride07]

Congrats on starting the new journal.. Your thanksgiving sounds like its going to be Fantastic..

Can't wait to hear more about your new production your working on sounds like it will be fun.

[Kacie_bride]

Oh your table sounds beautiful!

[ladymelissa]

Thank you so much everyone!!! You are all too kind. :bbredface:

Well it was very exciting at rehearsal today. We were out of the rehearsal space and on the stage. It went well, real furniture was a bit of an adjustment!

[ladymelissa]

We bought our tree! It is a 7' prelit tree and Mike put it up. Unfortunately, one string of lights at the bottom isn't working, he thinks it's just a loose bulb. I really hope that is the case b/c I do not want to have to pack it back up and exchange it. We'll tinker with it more later, it still looks fabulous!

We went with the silver and white with pink accents for the color scheme and it isn't decorated, yet.

[ladymelissa]

T-Day Menu:

Turkey, brined and roasted with fresh rosemary and thyme
Sausage stuffing
Homemade, wine based turkey gravy
Mashed potatoes
Baked buttercup squash
Homemade cranberry sauce made with fresh cranberries
Steamed green beans
Country creamed corn, cornbread bake
Crescent rolls

Dessert Menu:

Apple Pie
Pumpkin Pie
Cinnamon Rolls
Hot chocolate chip cookies

I hope I didn't forget anything! LOL

[jeni740]

I' m so glad you decided to start a journal, your posts are always so nice to read, can I come over to your house for Thanksgiving???? Sounds fantastic!! Can't wait to read more. 7ft tree!! holy cow cant wait to see pics.

[SerendipityCrafts]

Everything sounds lovely. When shall we expect our invite :) ?

[hummingbird521]

Melissa so glad you started a journal. Your thanksgiving menu is making me very hungry. The table decorations sound wonderful. Cant' wait to see pics of your tree. If anything like your wedding pics they will be stunning.

[MOB Karen]

Everything sounds perfect for Thanksgiving!!! Take some pics for us!! Looking forward to reading more in your journal!!! :)

[katieandalex]

Sounds like everything will be wonderful for your Thanksgiving. I would love to see pictures of how your tree turns out...sounds amazing!

[lea m]

The tablecloths are black satin with a black velvet design on them and the napkins are a very light cream color, almost just a warmer white.

For the centerpiece I think we will use our penguin candle holder, the penguin holds 2 tapers in his "hands," we also used this as our u-candle in the wedding. I will probably put him on a mirror base and bought these crystals to sprinkle around.



Ooohhhh sounds lovely, apart from the penguins, its sounds very similar to what i have in mind for my wedding reception tables!! You'll Have to poat pics !!!! so i can see how gorgeous it looks!! (And pinch some ideas!!LOL)

[WhiskeyGirl]

Everything sounds lovely. When shall we expect our invite :) ?

Doesn't it?? I'm waiting for my invite too! lol.

[SerendipityCrafts]

Doesn't it?? I'm waiting for my invite too! lol.

We'll cross the border together :) and if you bring the CC, I will bring the poutine! I'll even wear my best hockey socks.

BTW - I am glad to see that I am not the only one that makes sausage stuffing.

[WhiskeyGirl]

We'll cross the border together :) and if you bring the CC, I will bring the poutine! I'll even wear my best hockey socks.

BTW - I am glad to see that I am not the only one that makes sausage stuffing.

CC as in Canadian Club?? Maybe I should bring the poutine, wait, I'll eat it all before I get too far...perhaps I should bring the maple syrup even though you;re in Quebec where most of it is produced! lol

[SerendipityCrafts]

CC as in Canadian Club?? Maybe I should bring the poutine, wait, I'll eat it all before I get too far...perhaps I should bring the maple syrup even though you;re in Quebec where most of it is produced! lol

Sorry to highjack Melissa

Crud, it had already slipped my mind that you can't drink. OK I will bring the maple syrup and you can bring some wheat (or something else that SK is known for????).

[WhiskeyGirl]

Sorry to highjack Melissa

Crud, it had already slipped my mind that you can't drink. OK I will bring the maple syrup and you can bring some wheat (or something else that SK is known for????).

One last comment and then I'm finished hijacking too!

Where will I find wheat at this time of the year!? Lol. I'll think of something Canadian to bring. Since I live where the RCMP college is, maybe I could borrow a Cadet training to be an RCMP officer! lol

[ladymelissa]

Sure, come on over! I may have to set up some TV trays though, as it's going to be tight as it is as far as space is concerned. LOL I am most worried about having enough plates. We are expecting 12, with one wildcard who hasn't "RSVPed" yet. We really only have service for 12, b/c that is all we thought we needed when we registered for the wedding. Now I see that these holiday dinners can really add up fast.

Part of me would like to go buy another set to give us 16, but Mike thinks we will be okay and doesn't really want to store all that stuff year round b/c we never use the 12 that we have. Ugh, I am so torn. We do have 2 sizes of plates, so if need be the kids can have the lunch sized plates buying us 2 more placesettings and I am all too happy that I am not serving salads and soup! LOL

My mom always put sausage in the stuffing and I love it like that! I am also adding mushrooms (my own idea), I love mushrooms so we'll see how that turns out.

[ladymelissa]

What's poutine?

[ladymelissa]

This will be my 2,000th post and what better place to put it than my journal! :cheers: To all my wonderful OW memories!!!

Okay, now I must get moving, I need to go find more Christmas tree decorations and get to rehearsal. I am so excited and busy I haven't even been sleeping much.

[WhiskeyGirl]

What's poutine?

It's cheese curds and gravy on french fries and it's yummy!! lol

[SerendipityCrafts]

What's poutine?


There are three main elements that you need for a great poutine: http://www.keetologue.com/graphics/poutine-accordionguy.jpg 1. insanely hot gravy, which in effect is hot enough to melt the
2. mild cheddar cheese curds, and is absorbed by
3. fresh cut fries made from Yukon gold potatoes.
There've been times where the blasphemous has happened - shredded mozzarella cheese, which didn't create those delicious pockets of warm, melted cheese goodness. Many other times, I had poutine where the gravy was lukewarm, even cold. If I were a cheese curd relying on this gravy, I would've fled town a long time ago.

[Jenn060306]

Oh Melissa everything sounds fantastic! I am so wishing we had another Thanksgiving coming up cause your menu sounds sooooo good!
I can not wait to see your tree! It sounds really pretty! This is very exsiting!

[lea m]

There are three main elements that you need for a great poutine: http://www.keetologue.com/graphics/poutine-accordionguy.jpg1. insanely hot gravy, which in effect is hot enough to melt the
2. mild cheddar cheese curds, and is absorbed by
3. fresh cut fries made from Yukon gold potatoes.


There've been times where the blasphemous has happened - shredded mozzarella cheese, which didn't create those delicious pockets of warm, melted cheese goodness. Many other times, I had poutine where the gravy was lukewarm, even cold. If I were a cheese curd relying on this gravy, I would've fled town a long time ago.You are so funny!!! hee hee
Melissa i wish i were coming round yours for tea! Oopps I mean dinner!(im doing it again)

[70707Bride]

Yay! A journal!

[SaralovesMike]

Melissa everything looks great for Thanksgiving!! Good luck!

Hey you can send over your tree and my Mike will fix the bulbs for ya! He's been testing and fixing his thousands and thousands of lights for days. What's one more project? lol

[nic1124]

your menu sounds great. I'd love to see pics of the tree too. Lovin the color scheme.

[ladymelissa]

Hey you can send over your tree and my Mike will fix the bulbs for ya! He's been testing and fixing his thousands and thousands of lights for days. What's one more project? lol

I found it, the bulb was just a little loose.

I'll get pics up ASAP, but I have been moving at light speed for the last 3 days it seems.


That poutine looks heavenly!

[Valmai]

Oooo i just foudn this lol well done on starting a journal Melissa - Your Thanksgiving sounds wonderful im quite jealous that we dont have this over here - mayb i'll go to America one year for it lol Cant wait to see pics of your decorations! xxx

[ladymelissa]

T-day was a huge hit!!! The turkey came out PERFECTLY! It was tender and juicy. We received so many compliments on everything. The gravy took much longer than I anticipated and was a little thinner than I would have liked, but the flavor was still really good. The stuffing was amazing.

The kitchen took a beating, but we got it all cleaned up!

Now, for the pics!

The table:

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a64/ladymelissa/2006Holidays00000.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a64/ladymelissa/2006Holidays00001.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a64/ladymelissa/2006Holidays00005.jpg

I had some nuts and cherry cordial kisses on a coffe table with this in the middle:

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a64/ladymelissa/2006Holidays100059.jpg

[ladymelissa]

Now for the tree, I have found it extremely difficult to get a pic that will do this tree justice. It looks so much better in person. The flash either washes everything out or it is dark and blurry. I have some more pics but these seem to be the best and it takes awhile to resize them.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a64/ladymelissa/2006Holidays100056.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a64/ladymelissa/2006Holidays00017.jpg

[ladymelissa]

One of our little penguin ornaments:

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a64/ladymelissa/2006Holidays00041.jpg

[Valmai]

Glad it all went well - it definately looked beautiful, im so jealous!! xxx

[MOB Karen]

Your table looked amazing!!! The tree is simply breathtaking!!! You did a fantastic job, Melissa!! Thanks for sharing the pics with us! :candycane:

[SaralovesMike]

Everything looked amazing girl! I'm glad it worked out well.
Love the tree!

[mariaandmanish]

Your table looked beautiful, and I'm so glad that your dinner was such a success. That tree is gorgeous, and I absolutely love that penguin ornament!

[Jenn060306]

Everything looks gorgeous Melissa!
I love your tree! So pretty!

I'm glad to hear everything went well and the Turkey came out great!

[WhiskeyGirl]

Everything looks great!! I feel your pain on trying to get a picture of the Christmas tree!! I think mine all came out blurry or too dark as well!! But I love it, it looks fantastic!!!

[ladymelissa]

Thank you so much for the compliments! It was a lot of work, but worth it!

Now I'll have to go find that thread about turkey leftover recipes. LOL

[Jenn060306]

Thank you so much for the compliments! It was a lot of work, but worth it!

Now I'll have to go find that thread about turkey leftover recipes. LOL

Turkey tetrazinni is SOOOOO good!
It definatly makes you sleepy though!

[ladymelissa]

Turkey tetrazinni is SOOOOO good!
It definatly makes you sleepy though!
That sounds good, would you post the recipe?

I can't find that leftover thread, I thought it was in the Gen. Chat section, but I searched through 4 pages and couldn't find it. I can't even remember who started it.

[nic1124]

Wow very nice! Love the tree too.

[ladymelissa]

We ordered our Christmas cards yesterday! Darn, it won't let me post the card itself, we used this pic:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6cf05b3127cce8f58a3ccb25500000005108QaNGzVo1c4

It is a 4 X 8 photo card and has a red on red holly pattern background at the bottom where the text is and says, "Warmest wishes for a wonderful Holiday Season!" We will then sign them ourselves before we send them.

[lea m]

We ordered our Christmas cards yesterday! Darn, it won't let me post the card itself, we used this pic:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6cf05b3127cce8f58a3ccb25500000005108QaNGzVo1c4

It is a 4 X 8 photo card and has a red on red holly pattern background at the bottom where the text is and says, "Warmest wishes for a wonderful Holiday Season!" We will then sign them ourselves before we send them.
Its beautiful! I wish we sent cards out like that! I might try and find a place that does them, there must be some somewhere in the uk??

[ladymelissa]

Its beautiful! I wish we sent cards out like that! I might try and find a place that does them, there must be some somewhere in the uk??
Thank you! Try shutterfly (shutterfly.com) they might ship overseas, that is where we got them.

[Jenn060306]

Melissa your cards are stunning! I love them!

[ladymelissa]

Melissa your cards are stunning! I love them!
Thank you very much!

I feel so lazy after running around like a mad woman all week! Ugh! I will at least make it to the gym. Then I have to figure out what to do with some of this turkey, I swear we have at least 5, maybe 10 lbs. of meat left and that is after the bones have been thrown away!

I am thinking I could try some sort of pot pie. I'll take a 9" square baking dish and put some crescent roll dough on the bottom then layer mashed taters, gravy, turkey and maybe a little stuffing and then put more crescent dough on the top and bake it. Sounds good in theory, I wonder if it will come out.

It was nice, yesterday we went out to eat at the Olive Garden. So I did get a break from turkey!

[ladymelissa]

This is from Jennifer, I wanted a copy in my journal, I think I will try it tomorrow!

TURKEY TETRAZZINI
10 oz. mushrooms, sliced thin about 4 cups
5 tbsp. unsalted butter
1/4 c. all-purpose flour
1 3/4 c. milk
2 c. chicken broth
1/4 c. dry white wine
10 oz. spaghetti
3 c. coarsely chopped cooked turkey
1 c. cooked peas
2/3 c. freshly grated Parmesan
1/3 c. fine fresh bread crumbs


In a large heavy saucepan cook the mushrooms in 1/4 cup of butter over moderate heat, stirring until most of the liquid they give off has evaporated. Stir in the flour and cook the mixture over low heat, stirring for 3 minutes. Add in a stream (that is pour slowly) of milk, the broth, the wine, stirring bring the mixture to a boil, stirring and simmer the sauce for 5 minutes. In a pot of boiling, salted water cook the spaghetti until it is al dente (cooked) and drain it well. In a large bowl combine well spaghetti, the mushroom sauce, the turkey, the peas, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir in 1/3 cup of the Parmesan, and transfer the mixture to a buttered shallow 3-quart casserole. In a small bowl combine the remaining 1/3 cup of Parmesan, the bread crumbs and salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle the mixture over the tetrazzini and dot the top with the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, cut it into bits. Bake in 375 degrees F. oven for 30 to 40 minutes.

[mariaandmanish]

That photo is absolutely beautiful and a great choice for a holiday card!! I love the statement as well, it fits perfectly!

[ladymelissa]

That photo is absolutely beautiful and a great choice for a holiday card!! I love the statement as well, it fits perfectly!
Thanks, I thought it was fitting and we couldn't come up with any other catchy, fire, heat type puns that would fit nicely on a Christmas card and would be appropriate to send to many people!

[WhiskeyGirl]

I love your Christmas cards! What a wonderful idea!!

[MOB Karen]

Beautiful Christmas cards!!! I love them!!! :whoohoo:

[BriansBride07]

Beautiful X-mas cards.. I have in the past used Shutterfly for our x-mas cards they turned out gorgous... Your tree is also equally beautiful

[nic1124]

Love the cards. It's a beautiful picture.

[ladymelissa]

Thank you all so much, I am very excited to see the cards. They have shipped already so they should be here soon! Last year we received an SF x-mas card from someone and it was really nice, so I hope ours turn out that good!

My T-day pot pie, casserole thing came out great and now to try the Tetrazzini.

[SaralovesMike]

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6cf05b3127cce8f58a3ccb25500000005108QaNGzVo1c4



This is an awesome picture! Great idea for the card.

[ladymelissa]

This is an awesome picture! Great idea for the card.
Thank you!

[NicksBride]

wow Melissa everything looks so great! Your table was VERY elegant and the christmas cards are going to be a huge hit I am sure!

[ladymelissa]

Thank you, NicksBride!

We got the x-mas cards today and they look great! Hopefully they will be out on Mon.

The show opens Fri. so we have been in full dress all week, we took some pics today and tomorrow we perform for the critic. I am kind of in a daze right now. Maybe it's all the turkey I have been eating! LOL

[Valmai]

Good luck with the show!! I love the cards - its such a beautiful picture and a wonderful personal idea! xxx

[Kacie_bride]

Your tree and table look so beautiful!!!!! Now I want to take some pictures of mine as well!!!!

[WhiskeyGirl]

Is the saying "Break a leg!"? Good luck Melissa!

[SaralovesMike]

Good luck with the show!! I'm sure you'll do fine, even if you are in a "turkey daze." LOL

[ladymelissa]

Is the saying "Break a leg!"?
That's right!

Well, we nailed it. Now if only the light operator could learn his cues. :sigh:

[lea m]

Good luck Melissa!! If you can, try and put up some pics, I'd love to see you in your costume and everything!!!!!

[70707Bride]

Do you do like on stage theatre acting or movie acting?

[ladymelissa]

Do you do like on stage theatre acting or movie acting?
There are definitely pros and cons to both.

With theatre, you have to memorize all your lines (and pretty much everyone else's as well) and blocking and you only get one chance to do it. But, you also rehearse for a very long time with the rest of the cast and know where covering may be needed and there is also the "instant gratification" with the audience and you get immediate feedback and applause.

In film, there are little or no rehearsals and there really isn't any need to memorize lines as each part is shot separately and usually multiple times. There is also no continuity so you have to know at what stage your character is at for each scene and most times films are not shot in chronological order. There is also a lot of downtime during a shoot, you may be on location for 10 hours to get a 2 minute scene. Then when all the shooting is done everyone just packs up and goes home, the film goes to post production and you don't see it for months.

I love them both and they are so totally different, I find it impossible to choose a favorite.

[ladymelissa]

Good luck Melissa!! If you can, try and put up some pics, I'd love to see you in your costume and everything!!!!!
Thank you and I'll see if I can't get a copy of the cast photo we took Wed. If I had a scanner I could put up the one that was in the paper.

[MOB Karen]

How did the first show go, Melissa?

[70707Bride]

Have you been in any movies that we would know?

[ladymelissa]

How did the first show go, Melissa?
Very well. Overall I was very happy. There were a few mistakes, but we got it back on track.

At one point one of the other actors jumped about 3 pages of their entrance. In my mind I figured we could just leave it all out and keep moving as there is a lot of repetition in this play and none of it was pertinent to the plot, but the guy playing Peter decided to go back and pick it up, so I just went with it. That's all part of live theater, sometimes there is a bit of disagreement on how to handle "mistakes."

The trouble was that some of the lines got repeated once the person who originally skipped ahead figured out where we were, so it may have been somewhat evident to the audience that someone did something wrong. Mistakes don't bother me as that is par for the course, but I just don't like the audience to be able to tell.

Then at the beginning of Act II the lights came up before Lydia had gotten into place and she has the opening line of the act. So we are all looking at each other, Peter is typing away (he is a writer in the story) on the laptop. So after about 20 seconds of this, I just skipped the first few lines and started with my lines about asking Peter if he had sipped any of his drink before the will was read. As one of the characters had just died from cyanide poisoning at the end of Act I.

[ladymelissa]

Have you been in any movies that we would know?
No, I have only worked on 2 films both of which are still in post production. The first one, I don't even have much of a speaking role.

[ladymelissa]

In other news, we found out yesterday that Mike's aunt died, so we will be attending the services.

[BriansBride07]

Glad the show went off well. Sorry to hear about your DH's aunt I will keep you both in my thoughts and prayers. This is a horrible time of the year to lose a loved one.

[ladymelissa]

Glad the show went off well. Sorry to hear about your DH's aunt I will keep you both in my thoughts and prayers. This is a horrible time of the year to lose a loved one.
Thank you very much.

We went to the funeral home yesterday and they had a small service there. Then the deceased and immediate family are flying to Mississippi where she is to be buried near her parents.

[ladymelissa]

Saturday's performance went much better, it was as close to perfect as possible!!!

Here is the cast pic, not everyone stayed in costume or even full costume, but you can get a pretty good idea.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b6cc25b3127cce8f31d98396b900000016108QaNGzVo1c4

[BriansBride07]

HEHE how cute, you looked adorable. Looks by some of the costumes that it was a great performance. Glad it went so well.

[ladymelissa]

HEHE how cute, you looked adorable. Looks by some of the costumes that it was a great performance. Glad it went so well.
It's a great show! The guy at the desk is Peter (the writer) and the woman on the far right is Minna (the caretaker of the house in which Peter is writing his mystery).

The rest of us are Peter's characters that magically come to life during a cosmic turn of events, so we are not "real" people. Starting at the top row left, you have Lydia, the seductive femme fatal character, Jordan the lawyer, Cogburn the butler, Dick the hearty juvenile, Kay the ingénue (that's me), Fiona the old spinster, on the left Addie the pregnant maid.

[SaralovesMike]

Glad to hear it all went well, love the picture by the way!

Sorry about your hubby's aunt:flower:

[ladymelissa]

Glad to hear it all went well, love the picture by the way!

Sorry about your hubby's aunt:flower:
Thank you. :)

[NicksBride]

oh love the picture! Looks like a nice group of people to work with!

[ladymelissa]

oh love the picture! Looks like a nice group of people to work with!
Yes, they are!

It is nice to have some time to get things back in order. I went to my boot camp and step classes. I finally got the cleaning done and now I have to start on x-mas cards.

[Jenn060306]

Great Pic!
Working with the Theatre must be so much fun! A friend of mine is a Stage Manager/ Lighting Tech. and she adores it!

[ladymelissa]

Thanks Jennifer!

Ugh! I was doing the xmas cards and we are a few short! So we had to order more. I really hope they get here as fast as the last bunch. I really can't figure out how we ran out! We didn't send one to everyone who was invited to the wedding as some of the guests were more guests of our parents than ours or family and I didn't even address individual xmas cards to older kids who still live with their parents, I just did the "and family" thing. I am just frustrated, I want to be done with a project, but noooooo. OK, rant over.

[Valmai]

Great pic lol it sounds like a good play - Jamie and i often go to the smaller theatres in Cardiff i like seeing 'different' plays rather than the huge productions that tour the country. Sorry about your hubs aunt what an awful time for it to happen (tho i suppose theres never a good time). Good luck with ur cards! xxx

[SaralovesMike]

Ugh! Christmas cards are fun aren't they???
We're still addressing ours, hopefully we'll be done this week. Of course with yours being more "personalized" I'm sure its a drag having to reorder more, especially with the mail being as slow as it is this time of year.
Wishing for a quick delivery! :)

[NicksBride]

oh the curse of christmas cards. I hate sending those things. hahaha I hope your cards get her super quick.

[lea m]

That pics great!!! your so pretty! Looks and sounds like so much fun! glad everythings went well! Ive not even started thinking about xmas cards:bbredface: suppose i had better hurry up!! that shutterfly thing wouldnt deliever to england unfortunately! :(

[ladymelissa]

That pics great!!! your so pretty! Looks and sounds like so much fun! glad everythings went well! Ive not even started thinking about xmas cards:bbredface: suppose i had better hurry up!! that shutterfly thing wouldnt deliever to england unfortunately! :(

Thank you! They don't ship to England? I figured they did b/c there were international options on the site, although I never had any reason look into that any futher!

Thank you everyone for the well wishes, I hope they get here fast!!!

[lea m]

Do they??? i think I'll just check again.......

[ladymelissa]

I'll go try to look too.

[ladymelissa]

It just says, 'international.' So I would imagine that England would be covered. Here is part of the shipping cost chart. It gives US, Canada and International options.

International



Per book: $5.99

Note: International shipments (outside the US) may be subject to taxes, duties, or other customs fees upon delivery. The recipient is responsible for any such fees at the point of delivery.

All prices are shown in US dollars.

[lea m]

Yeh i found that i can order!!! duh dont know how i missed it last time!:bbredface: Not sure how i get cards, but i'll have another proper look tomorrow!! when my head might be on right!!! lol

[jeni740]

Very beautiful Christmas cards, and tree!!!

[ladymelissa]

Very beautiful Christmas cards, and tree!!!
Thank you! :)

I did get notice that the second order of cards was shipped so I hope they get here fast! I want to get them all out!

[ladymelissa]

I feel guilty, I have been slacking off all day and have to go get some stuff done b/c I have performances all weekend. To top it off, I sort of said I would go (I did use the words, maybe and probably so it wasn't definite) to a playwrights meeting for local writers and now I canceled. It's a pretty informal thing and I don't even have any concrete scenes or scripts to present or even discuss. And I am too skittish to even bring up my vague ideas at their current stage. I hope I haven't disappointed anyone. They do meet every 2 weeks so hopefully in the future I will have something that I am more comfortable to talk about.

[mariaandmanish]

Melissa, from the sounds of things you never take any time off! So, you should not feel guilty about relaxing today!! Enjoy your free time, and don't worry about missing something you weren't even sure you were going to in the first place! When you feel like you have something to contribute, I'm sure you'll really be looking forward to going!

[ladymelissa]

Melissa, from the sounds of things you never take any time off! So, you should not feel guilty about relaxing today!! Enjoy your free time, and don't worry about missing something you weren't even sure you were going to in the first place! When you feel like you have something to contribute, I'm sure you'll really be looking forward to going!
Thanks! You are so reassuring, you made me smile! :hug:

[ladymelissa]

The lights go down for the last time. :sigh: The show has closed, but it was a great run and to top it off we ended in the black. :whoohoo:

I also received the ultimate compliment today. I play a duel role, for the most part I play Kay, the ingénue, but after the characters go back, at the end I make an appearance as Phyllis Smith (a real person), which is kind of a surprise. Anyway, a little girl told me after the show that she didn't even recognize me as previously being Kay.

[mariaandmanish]

That's so great, Melissa! COngratulations on a job obviously very very well done!! It sounds like its a bit sad that it's over, but all things must come to an end, right? And you'll have more fun things ahead in the future!! Can't wait to hear all about those as well!

[hummingbird521]

Sounds like you done an excellent job in your dual role. congrats for it. Sorry it is now over though. got any prospects for future productions?

[ladymelissa]

Sounds like you done an excellent job in your dual role. congrats for it. Sorry it is now over though. got any prospects for future productions?
Thank you and now it is back to auditions.

[Kacie_bride]

Thank you and now it is back to auditions.

I'm sure you'll do well at any future auditions!!!!

[BriansBride07]

YEAH! so glad it all went so well. How cute that the little girl gave you such a great compliment. Best of luck to you on your future auditions i'm sure you will knock them dead and land the role.

[ladymelissa]

Maria- Yes, it's always a little sad to see a show go, especially with the relatively short runs I am used to. I would love to be part of a longer running show at some point. It seems that inevitably I learn so much during performances, the audience really lets you know what works and what doesn't so I am constantly tweaking things.

Kacie- I have learned that cold readings are generally my weaker link, so at least I am aware of that.

Christina- Thank you so much.

[lea m]

Im so glad it all went well!! What a brilliant job you have though Melissa!! I love to act but the opportunity has never been there!! I could just imagine the thrill and excitement you have had and how you must be sad to see it end! But at least it ended well and im sure there will be plenty more coming your way!!

[ladymelissa]

Thanks, Leanne!

OK, I am feeling like a Scrooge now. I was at the UPS store today and wanted to box and ship 2 gifts (to the same person, we just didn't have a box big enough). So it ended up costing $52 to send $45 worth of stuff! It's times like these that I HATE Christmas!!! Sometimes I just want to be like the Kranks and skip Christmas and head for a resort! Next year I think they will be getting a giftcard!

[Jenn060306]

Thanks, Leanne!

OK, I am feeling like a Scrooge now. I was at the UPS store today and wanted to box and ship 2 gifts (to the same person, we just didn't have a box big enough). So it ended up costing $52 to send $45 worth of stuff! It's times like these that I HATE Christmas!!! Sometimes I just want to be like the Kranks and skip Christmas and head for a resort! Next year I think they will be getting a giftcard!

Can i skip Christmas with you??? LOL!
That is craziness that it cost that much! I can not belive the cost of mailing things these days!

[ladymelissa]

Can i skip Christmas with you??? LOL!
That is craziness that it cost that much! I can not belive the cost of mailing things these days!
It makes me sick every time I think about it! That is a wonderful dinner out among many other things. I'll just have to order online for things for that person and have them shipped directly to them, b/c shipping online isn't nearly that expensive!

[NicksBride]

i HATE shipping stuff, I put it off for as long as possible becuase I hate to see the bill!!
I love Christmas, but I hate sending stuff, if I don't see you on christmas NO PRESENT FOR YOU! hehehe

[ladymelissa]

if I don't see you on christmas NO PRESENT FOR YOU! hehehe
I am in total accord! :bblol:

I'd probably change my mind though, I just hate thinking about it!

[mariaandmanish]

Thanks, Leanne!

OK, I am feeling like a Scrooge now. I was at the UPS store today and wanted to box and ship 2 gifts (to the same person, we just didn't have a box big enough). So it ended up costing $52 to send $45 worth of stuff! It's times like these that I HATE Christmas!!! Sometimes I just want to be like the Kranks and skip Christmas and head for a resort! Next year I think they will be getting a giftcard!

Wow, that's unbievable! I've sent 3 packages through UPS within the last two weeks, and in total the three packages cost me $50.00.

[Kacie_bride]

Thanks, Leanne!

OK, I am feeling like a Scrooge now. I was at the UPS store today and wanted to box and ship 2 gifts (to the same person, we just didn't have a box big enough). So it ended up costing $52 to send $45 worth of stuff! It's times like these that I HATE Christmas!!! Sometimes I just want to be like the Kranks and skip Christmas and head for a resort! Next year I think they will be getting a giftcard!

That is ridiculous!!!! I am getting a gift card for almost everyone this year. I just don't have the time to do the shopping now.

[ladymelissa]

Wow, that's unbievable! I've sent 3 packages through UPS within the last two weeks, and in total the three packages cost me $50.00.
It required a large box, one of the gifts was a sit-n-spin. The actual shipping was $35.35, the brown, 22 x 22 x 22 box in which they packed the wrapped gifts was $9.80, $3 for packing material (peanuts) and $3 in handling to put all that in the outer box and tape it shut, plus $ .77 in tax.

$51.92 was the grand total. A two year old's smile, priceless.

Giftcards are the way to go! :)

[jeni740]

Jeesh I am glad all my family lives here, we keep talking about moving down south, if we do no UPS for us :bbmrgreen:

[AngelinLove]

Just an idea, but maybe in the future you could find the gift that you want and send a picture of that gift with a gift card in the amount to cover it...lol...then you can be pretty sure that they will get what you wanted them to get, but save on the shipping....kwim?

[ladymelissa]

Just an idea, but maybe in the future you could find the gift that you want and send a picture of that gift with a gift card in the amount to cover it...lol...then you can be pretty sure that they will get what you wanted them to get, but save on the shipping....kwim?
That is a great idea, too! Thanks!

[mariaandmanish]

Just an idea, but maybe in the future you could find the gift that you want and send a picture of that gift with a gift card in the amount to cover it...lol...then you can be pretty sure that they will get what you wanted them to get, but save on the shipping....kwim?

That's a really good idea, Angel! I'll have to remember that too since I have so many to send!

[NicksBride]

That is VERY smart. :)

[SaralovesMike]

That's an awesome idea! I'm thankful everyone we have to buy for is here.

[Kacie_bride]

OMG I love Angel's idea!!!!!

[BriansBride07]

I am going to remember that one when I send stuff to my nephews in VA, thanks

[ladymelissa]

Yay! I think I am done Christmas shopping! I just have to pick up a gift card for the ILs, it will be for which ever restaurant that Mike decides.

I was also picking up gift tags and little stuff today and found this thing that is supposed to heat up shaving cream so I decided to get one for Mike. I already have other things for him, but thought this could also be kind of neat or it will turn out to be a total flop. We shall see.

Now for the wrapping portion of the festivities...

[hummingbird521]

Doesnt' it feel good to get all the shopping done? Warm shaving cream will be nice for him. That is a neat and different gift.

[ladymelissa]

Doesnt' it feel good to get all the shopping done? Warm shaving cream will be nice for him. That is a neat and different gift.
It is a relief! I hope the shaving cream thing works well, it is certainly different and something he will never expect so there is an element of surprise.

[mariaandmanish]

I've seen those things so many times and thought of getting one, but never have. Let us know what Mike thinks of it!! And, btw, it is definitely unique and something I can't imagine he'd even think about receiving! Isn't it fun comeing up with things that will be a surprise! Hard, though! LOL

[ladymelissa]

I'll let you know how it works. It is very difficult to find stuff he either doesn't have or would be a surprise. LOL

[BriansBride07]

If all else fails with the s/c warmer maybe you could use it for you s/c. COngrats on getting finished. I am off today to try and get my last 2 gifts ARGH I can't find anything I want

[cowboysbride]

and found this thing that is supposed to heat up shaving cream so I decided to get one for Mike.

I got one of those for Eric...he saw it on TV and mentioned it looked neat...evidently warm SC helps soften and gives them a closer shave! Yay for twin presents! I hope Mike likes it!

[lea m]

Hey ive never heard of them!! Is there a site i could take a look at?? Joe might like something like that!!

[brewsells]

There are a few companies that make them, but this is the first I found. My dad has one and loves it!

http://www.hammacher.com/publish/72488.asp?source=google&keyword=shaving+cream+warmer&cm_ven=NewGate&cm_cat=Google&cm_pla=Gift05&cm_ite=shaving+cream+warmer&OVMTC=Broad&site=&creative=413814681

[cowboysbride]

That's the one I got Eric! Sorry Melissa...total hijack here....it's Holly's fault, she made me do it!

Leaving now!

:ginger:

[brewsells]

That's the one I got Eric! Sorry Melissa...total hijack here....it's Holly's fault, she made me do it!

Leaving now!

:ginger:
I know! I'm sorry!! I thought about it when I did it too. But it's been a while.. LOL. Sorry, Melissa!

[ladymelissa]

That's the one I got Eric! Sorry Melissa...total hijack here....it's Holly's fault, she made me do it!

:ginger:
It's okay girls, talk among yourselves. :)

The one I found wasn't that expensive, but it is made by Conair so I hope it's still good. The one I got only does shave creams, not gels. But that's okay b/c he uses cream exclusively.

[nic1124]

I love your new avatar!

[hummingbird521]

I second that. I love the new avatar.

[ladymelissa]

Thank you Nik and Treasia!

[brewsells]

It's okay girls, talk among yourselves. :)

The one I found wasn't that expensive, but it is made by Conair so I hope it's still good. The one I got only does shave creams, not gels. But that's okay b/c he uses cream exclusively.

I think the one my dad has is made by conair. My mom bought it for him last year, and he has never had a problem with it.
I also love the new avatar. All your pictures are so pretty.

[lea m]

Love your new pic Melissa!

[70707Bride]

It is a very beautiful pic! I love it!

[NicksBride]

I agree with all the ladies. Love the new picture, very pretty

[ladymelissa]

Thank you all for the compliments! :) I just got tired of the same old pic.

[cowboysbride]

Well I'm late but I agree....too pretty!

[ladymelissa]

Thank you Ellen! :)

Great news, I got my first choice of parts in a play called, You Can't Take It With You. I get to be Essie, the terrible ballet dancer. :whoohoo:

It's about a very eccentric family in which every member is a bit insane and all live together. Then Alice (Essie's sister) who is the most normal of the bunch falls in love with the son of very rich and conservative parents. So the real madness begins when her love interest and his family come for a surprise visit.

For once in my life I get to be a "ballerina," albeit terrible, but still one of those childhood dreams.

[Kacie_bride]

Congrats on getting the part! I'm very happy for you!

[hummingbird521]

congrats Melissa on getting the part you want. How long before you start rehearsing on it? It sounds like it will be very interesting and comical as well. I love things about families getting together and all the antics they go through.

[BriansBride07]

I'm late but i love your new avator.

As for the play congrats on getting the part of Essie sounds like it would be fun part to play.

[lea m]

Oh that sounds great Melissa!! Its a shame i'll be too far away to come and watch! sounds really funny!

[ladymelissa]

Thank you everyone!

How long before you start rehearsing on it?
I'll probably get my script this week or next, rehearsals will start in mid Jan. and the show will open in March.

[70707Bride]

Thank you everyone!


I'll probably get my script this week or next, rehearsals will start in mid Jan. and the show will open in March.

I wish I could see your show! That would be so fun!

[ladymelissa]

Its a shame i'll be too far away to come and watch! sounds really funny!

If only you didn't live overseas! LOL

It is funny, I was laughing out loud the first time I read it and through a lot of the readings at auditions. I couldn't put it down it was so good.

[ladymelissa]

I wish I could see your show! That would be so fun!
Don't worry too much, I'll keep all of you "posted." :) Ha Ha, posted, get it? LOL

[lea m]

It really sounds like it is!! I love that type of thing! Slightly nutty people meet totally straight people!! ha ha it should be very funny to reherse!! hee hee

[70707Bride]

Don't worry too much, I'll keep all of you "posted." :) Ha Ha, posted, get it? LOL

Haha, posted! That's a good one!

[mariaandmanish]

Congrats on the part, Melissa! I agree with the other ladies that it does sound like it will be a lot of fun! Enjoy your rehearsals and getting ready for the opening in March!

[jeni740]

Congratulations on the part!!! I love your new picture very pretty!!

[ladymelissa]

Thank you Maria and Jennifer! :)

[ladymelissa]

I bought some pine potpourri so now it smells all Christmasy in here! :)

[70707Bride]

I bought some pine potpourri so now it smells all Christmasy in here! :)

I won't even decorate in our house because now that college is over for a while, we are only here 2 days a week. Then we go home. We do have a 4 ft tree up though :).

[NicksBride]

Good for you for getting the part, what a wonderful character you are playing sounds as though it will be wonderful! Can't wait to hear how things are going with that..
Oh christmas smell, I love that!

[countrygirl]

Hey Melissa, congrats on the part. I can't wait to hear more about the play, it sounds great. And as w the rest of the girls, I love the new pic.

Gorgeous darling, simply gorgeous!!!!

[ladymelissa]

I won't even decorate in our house because now that college is over for a while, we are only here 2 days a week. Then we go home. We do have a 4 ft tree up though :).
4 feet isn't too shabby! I am sure it looks great!

[ladymelissa]

Good for you for getting the part, what a wonderful character you are playing sounds as though it will be wonderful! Can't wait to hear how things are going with that..
Oh christmas smell, I love that!
Thank you! The smell is wonderful, it's even more potent then I had expected!

[ladymelissa]

Hey Melissa, congrats on the part. I can't wait to hear more about the play, it sounds great. And as w the rest of the girls, I love the new pic.

Gorgeous darling, simply gorgeous!!!!
Thank you so much! :)

[70707Bride]

4 feet isn't too shabby! I am sure it looks great!

Hehe, I like it and I decorated it in purple again, with white lights.

[ladymelissa]

Hehe, I like it and I decorated it in purple again, with white lights.
That sounds really nice!

[ladymelissa]

Yummy, I bought our prime rib roast for Christmas today and now I am reading up on wine pairing.

http://wine.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ/Ya&sdn=wine&cdn=food&tm=37&gps=95_6_1020_572&f=00&su=p284.21.140.ip_&tt=14&bt=1&bts=1&zu=http%3A//www.cellarnotes.net/foodwine.html

http://wine.about.com/gi/dynamic/offsite.htm?zi=1/XJ/Ya&sdn=wine&cdn=food&tm=37&gps=95_6_1020_572&f=00&su=p284.21.140.ip_&tt=14&bt=1&bts=1&zu=http%3A//www.cellarnotes.net/foodwine.html

Balance: Use the dominate flavor of a dish, often the sauce, as your guide in pairing. For example, use the wine used in the sauce as the compliment drink with the dish.

Contrast: Opposites attract, therefore sweet wine goes with sour or acidic food. Subdued, complex older wines deserve simple foods not heavy sauces.

Highly seasoned foods: Spicy, salty, and smoky flavors are best paired with fruity, low tannin, lower alcohol-content wines.

Rich foods: Rich and fatty foods often work well with full-bodied Chardonnay, Cabernet sauvignon, Merlot, Zinfandel or syrah.

Sweet foods: The sweetness of the dish should be less than the sweetness of the wine. This is easily accomplished by adding citrus juice or vinegar to the dish.

High acid: Highly acidic foods such as tomatoes, citrus fruits and goat cheese usually go best with acidic wines such as a Sauvignon Blanc.

http://wineprofessor.com/winebasics.html

[70707Bride]

Sounds like you are a great cook! I wish I was! It sounds like its going to be good!

[brewsells]

I never really was good at wine paring... I usually serve what I like. LOL.

[ladymelissa]

Sounds like you are a great cook! I wish I was! It sounds like its going to be good!

I do pretty well. I just find a recipe that sounds good and follow it. Mike was extremely impressed with my turkey on Thanksgiving (as was I).

I never really was good at wine paring... I usually serve what I like.
I am not good at it, but some wines do taste really different based on what you are eating with it. So I am trying to learn more.

I baked a cake for one of our Christmas parties. Then I have to pick up a few more things for the other parties.

[MOB Karen]

http://simply-baby.net/forum/images/smilies/xmascheers.gif I'm not much of a wine drinker, but I think it's cool when they can match the wine to what you're eating. The Prime Rib Roast sounds absolutely wonderful for Christmas dinner. http://www.terranuts.com/forums/images/smilies/yummy.gif

[ladymelissa]

Thanks Karen, and you always find the coolest smilies! I love the new ticker, too! :)

Well I just have to mop the floors really quickly and then I am ready to make some fudge!

I heard on the radio today that the average person eats about 3.5 lbs. of sweets during the Holidays. That is crazy! No wonder why it is said that many gain 10 lbs.

[nic1124]

Nice choice for Christmas dinner! We always have prime rib on Christmas. It's the only time I eat it all year, it's soooo yummy!!!

[Jenn060306]

3.5 pounds! WOW!
I hope i don't get too carried away!

Have fun making your fudge!

[ladymelissa]

The fudge came out great! I even added some espresso beans to it and it was awesome, everyone thought it was really good and unique! I also made a choc. mint variety which was also good.

I have been so busy during the holidays and then yesterday I was so tired, I didn't do much of anything. All the Christmas gatherings were fun, except the one we hosted which was a bit of a disaster. Never underestimate a party, no matter how small or informal it may be...

We were just having a small gathering and Mike had mentioned he had wanted a banana cream pie with meringue topping. Anyhoo, the meringue never worked out like the recipe said it would. It never stiffened and I worked on it for an hour as did Mike. So that didn't work. The cream part of the pie didn't even set enough to serve with whipped cream. So no pie for the guests. Oops.

Then we put out the cheese, sausage and cracker tray and I forgot to put out the shrimp. Luckily I remembered before they left!

Then Mike and I were supposed to have the prime rib, but it didn't defrost completely and I took it out of the freezer Sat. night! So I ended up making fettucine alfredo with chicken, at least it tasted amazing!

We did have the prime rib yesterday and it was to die for. It all worked out, but it seemed like one fire after another. LOL

[ladymelissa]

Oh yeah, I almost forgot to mention the shaving cream warmer isn't working out as well as I had planned. It said on the box that it could handle any size can, even the larger ones, but when we opened it on the bottom where you insert the can, it said 11 oz. We have a 14 oz. can and put it in there anyway and no shaving cream would come out. So I have to get an 11 oz. can and hopefully it will then work. But so far it is quite disappointing. Mike does like the idea of warm shaving cream though, so lets hope the smaller size works!

[hummingbird521]

Sorry your prime rib didn't defrost in time. But more for the two of you now. haha. maybe the smaller size can of shaving cream will work. What a bummer he hasn't got to try it yet. I had that problem once with some meringue and I had accidentally gotten some yolk into it and this caused it not to stiffen at all. Maybe this happened.

[mariaandmanish]

That stinks that the shaving cream warmer needs a smaller can, but I hope it works when you get the smaller one. And, I'm really glad that Mike liked it, since that's the most important thing!

Amazing how little things can make a difference! But, I'm glad that the fettucine alfredo worked for you guests, and that you had a great pot roast for the two of you. It's nice to ahve something that special just for aromantic evening in every once in a while!

[ladymelissa]

I had that problem once with some meringue and I had accidentally gotten some yolk into it and this caused it not to stiffen at all. Maybe this happened.

Thanks for the tip! That might be what happened b/c a very small drop of yolk did fall through, but it was less than an eye drop amount so I didn't think much of it.

It's nice to ahve something that special just for aromantic evening in every once in a while!

It was very nice!

[NicksBride]

I am sorry that shaving creme thing didn't work. THat is always a bummer, I hope the smaller can works, let us know. haha

[ladymelissa]

It works with the smaller can! :whoohoo: It's nice!

[NicksBride]

Yea, glad that it is finally working. :) With today being so cold here I could use one right now. hope you have a great day Melissa.

[lea m]

Im so glad its working now!! i lost the link to them could you tell me the name of them please?? i want to get Joe one for his birthday!(and maybe myself!)lol

[cowboysbride]

LOL! I thought of you and Mike's SC warmer this morning when I was getting ready for work! I'm glad it works now...

[ladymelissa]

Im so glad its working now!! i lost the link to them could you tell me the name of them please?? i want to get Joe one for his birthday!(and maybe myself!)lol
Here is the link: http://www.hammacher.com/publish/72488.asp?source=google&keyword=shaving+cream+warmer&cm_ven=NewGate&cm_cat=Google&cm_pla=Gift05&cm_ite=shaving+cream+warmer&OVMTC=Broad&site=&creative=413814681

That is not the exact model I got, Mike's only does shaving cream, not gel and was only $10 at a local outlet store, but is still made by Conair so you may want to shop around a little.

[ladymelissa]

LOL! I thought of you and Mike's SC warmer this morning when I was getting ready for work! I'm glad it works now...
Thanks, it's amazing, his skin did seem smoother and softer and he agreed. I think he really likes it. :)

[lea m]

Thankyou!! just had a quick look on that site and i saw a few things that i could get Joe and others!

[ladymelissa]

I have been researching the basics of ballet for my latest character and have a few materials on order at the library. I hope they come in quickly. My sis showed me a few things over the holiday so I have a good start. Even though she isn't very good at the art she has been studying for 8 years and must at least know the foot positions and stuff.

[NicksBride]

Wow 8 years, that is amazing. How interesting to be studying ballet, I have always wanted to learn ballet. GOod luck with your new character can't wait to hear how it all works out!

[lea m]

Im thinking of taking Lucy to ballet classes and doing some with her!:bbredface: I'll be like an elephant trying to tap dance!! lol

[NicksBride]

oh geez, I am sure you and your daughter will have a great time doing that. ballet is great excersise.

[SaralovesMike]

Good luck with your latest character Melissa! Ballet was something I wanted to learn when I was younger. That's cool.

Im thinking of taking Lucy to ballet classes and doing some with her!:bbredface: I'll be like an elephant trying to tap dance!! lol

I had to laugh when I read that one, I feel the same way for me!

[ladymelissa]

Ballet is amazing exercise, I could really feel the muscles in my butt working with the little bit I have been doing.

Last night I went to see a one man show about Jacob Marley's perspective of A Christmas Carol. It was very interesting and a beautifully written piece of work and the performance was amazing. It was one person portraying about 10 different characters. The imagery the author writes with was unbelievable, the downside was that you were literally being read a book. Part of me was like, "if I want to read a novel, I can stay home and read a novel." Also, I really hate to admit this, but I am really burnt out on the whole Christmas Carol storyline. It's like that is one of the only plays produced during Christmas and while this was a new rendition, told from Marley's perspective, it still the same basic story. So now I have begun work on my own Christmas comedy as there seems to be a need for new Christmas productions at least for the stage anyway.

[SaralovesMike]

Also, I really hate to admit this, but I am really burnt out on the whole Christmas Carol storyline. It's like that is one of the only plays produced during Christmas and while this was a new rendition, told from Marley's perspective, it still the same basic story. So now I have begun work on my own Christmas comedy as there seems to be a need for new Christmas productions at least for the stage anyway.


Good for you! I totally agree with you on that one and that's an awesome idea. Not only on stage but movies as well!

[ladymelissa]

Good for you! I totally agree with you on that one and that's an awesome idea. Not only on stage but movies as well!
There are many Christmas movies and new ones come out every year, and if I can get a play written, it's easily adaped for film. What inspired me was the director gave a short intro and was saying how hard it was to find new Christmas plays written for the stage. I could also work on adapting a film for the stage, but then you get into copyrights and I would have to figure out how ask for permission to use the ideas, so I am starting from scratch.

[lea m]

Well good luck luck with that Melissa, though i doubt you'll need it! sounds great! hey imagine a few years down the line,....."an adaptation of the play written by LadyMelissa" lol sound good!

[ladymelissa]

Well good luck luck with that Melissa, though i doubt you'll need it! sounds great! hey imagine a few years down the line,....."an adaptation of the play written by LadyMelissa" lol sound good!
Thank you, you are so sweet!

[ladymelissa]

Our NYE Story

We went to meet 2 of Mike's friends from college for lunch. They sort of lost track of each other in the late 80s and Mike had been trying to find them for 2 years, before the wedding. We also came to find out that they had been trying to find him. It was the first time I had met them and they were so nice, I felt comfortable around them. So that was nice.

We didn't get home until about 6 pm and wanted to go out for a formal dinner and dance. It was a little later than I would have liked, but we left at about 8pm. We went to the Holiday Inn. The dinner was nice, the food wasn't as good as it had been in the past, maybe it's b/c I have been dappling in gourmet cooking for a little while. They seriously messed up the prime rib somehow, it had the taste and texture of roast beef. Anyhoo, I had some wine and then we hit the dance floor.

We did mostly swing and were a little rusty at first, but it came back to us. At midnight there was a balloon drop and Mike kissed me and we toasted with champagne. About 2 minutes after midnight, 2 guys decided to jump in the pool, the pool there was in the atrium where the dancing was. They were splashing around trying to get bystanders wet, but high tailed it out of there when security was moving in on them. Mike also said he saw one of them get some serious words from either his wife or GF (he couldn't tell from his vantage point).

I wanted a second glass, so we went over to the champagne table and found a table over in that area and drank and danced and drank some more (well me more than him).

They had run out of the tall champagne flutes and started using like highball or juice glasses, that looked like there was maybe an ounce of champagne in them. So I drank quite a few and ended up plastered. The next day, Mike said there was at least 3 ounces of champagne in them, so I seriously underestimated the amount I was drinking. LOL I paid for it dearly the next day though. All in all we had a ball on NYE! I wish we had pics, but were rushed to leave and forgot to take one and really didn't want to have to worry about our camera all night. Oh well.

[NicksBride]

Sounds like you had quite the evening!!! :)

[hummingbird521]

Sounds like a wonderful evening for you two. I love champagne with Chambord in it. Tastes sooo good.

[WhiskeyGirl]

It sounds like you had a great time!! :wink:

[ladymelissa]

It was a wonderful time!

Man, the worst part of the new year is all those people who crowd the gym all of a sudden, the resolution bunch.

[jeni740]

It sounded like fun you gotta love Champagne!!!!!

[SerendipityCrafts]

Mmmmmm champagne. We got a few bottles at our wedding and since DH doesn't care for it .... LOL I drank most all of it. Hic.

Sounds like you had a great time! Is there any video? :)

[mariaandmanish]

Sounds like a blast, Melissa! I know all about having a bit too much to drink and paying for it the next day! LOL... I'm glad that it was a nice time, though!

[ladymelissa]

Video? No, probably not. We don't even have any still pics, actually I have to check Mike's phone. I think he took a couple of me in my drunken stupor, but I am really not sure if I can get them online. We did look really nice when we left though.

[jeni740]

Video? No, probably not. We don't even have any still pics, actually I have to check Mike's phone. I think he took a couple of me in my drunken stupor, but I am really not sure if I can get them online. We did look really nice when we left though.
lol I cant wait to see those!!! My friend at work was showing me her bull riding experience on new years eve it was quite hilarious!! Drunk pictures are the best!

[SaralovesMike]

Sounds like you guys had a blast on New Years. What fun!
Funny how that champagne creeps up on you like that huh. Too bad there aren't any pictures, lol.

That's really cool about Mike "finding" his college pals again. I bet he was really excited too.

[lea m]

It was a wonderful time!

Man, the worst part of the new year is all those people who crowd the gym all of a sudden, the resolution bunch.

LOL!! My gyms not open yet! :( opens next monday! cant wait!

[ladymelissa]

lol I cant wait to see those!!! My friend at work was showing me her bull riding experience on new years eve it was quite hilarious!! Drunk pictures are the best!
There is one really dark pic on the phone, it's not very good quality. I am not quite sure how to get it out of the phone and on the comp. I may have to go find a cable.

[ladymelissa]

LOL!! My gyms not open yet! :( opens next monday! cant wait!
Not open yet? I thought my gym took too many days for the holidays. Ours was closed both Christmas eve and day and New Years eve and day. And most of the classes were not in session for three weeks, but at least the gym was open. I should probably learn to complain less! LOL

[janeandreawong]

I am all excited when I saw your thread. I have been reading and posting on threads and noticed that your advices are really, really good. Reading this journal felt like I am a bit closer to you. :) I'll sure visit your thread every now and then. :)




------------------------
http://bridesmaidtailor.com

[ladymelissa]

I am all excited when I saw your thread. I have been reading and posting on threads and noticed that your advices are really, really good. Reading this journal felt like I am a bit closer to you. :) I'll sure visit your thread every now and then. :)

I am glad you checked it out and welcome to my life! :)

[ladymelissa]

We had a great weekend!!!! Last night we went to see Phantom of the Opera and it was amazing. The effects were top notch. Mike and I are still debating how they did the candles coming out of the fog and how they got the fog to recede on cue. The costumes could use an update and the guy who played Raoul missed a few notes during the All I Ask of You duet which really broke the spell of the scene, but all in all it was a fabulous show.

[SerendipityCrafts]

There is one really dark pic on the phone, it's not very good quality. I am not quite sure how to get it out of the phone and on the comp. I may have to go find a cable.

My cell phone doesn't take pics so I am no expert, but I understand that you can email phone pics. You might try emailing it to yourself.

[ladymelissa]

My cell phone doesn't take pics so I am no expert, but I understand that you can email phone pics. You might try emailing it to yourself.
It does have that option, but I keep forgetting to call and ask if there is a separate charge for it. I don't want some massive fee on the next bill. LOL

[ladymelissa]

I also forgot to say when I was talking about The Phantom, my favorite lighting effect of all time was at the very end. Meg finds her way underground to where the Phantom lives, he had disappeared and all that was left was his mask. She holds it up and everything fades to black except a single spotlight on the mask. It sounds simple, but it was so very powerful. You couldn't see anything else except that mask glowing, there wasn't even an outline of her or the chair on which she found it. It was awesome and the light tech was unbelievably good to get that light perfect. In my mind that single effect topped anything I had ever seen before, yet was so simple.

[ladymelissa]

A very disappointing showing by the Buckeyes. Heeeelllllllooooo! It's like the National Championship!!! At least the band played an appropriate number at halftime... the theme from Titanic.

[NicksBride]

I love your new avitar picture!! Very pretty!

[brewsells]

I was just going to comment on the avatar myself. Great pic, Melissa.

[MOB Karen]

LOL! It kind of threw me for a minute, I thought I was in the wrong person's thread. LOL! Great pic, Melissa! :)

[nic1124]

I agree!!!!!!!!!

[Goin2thechapel]

Melissa,

I didn't know that you were a champagne drinker?!?! I love champagne! Also I love going to plays, but I go to local plays at the auditorium. I'd love to take in a few broadway shows :) Maybe soon.

[Kacie_bride]

I like your new avatar too!

[ladymelissa]

Thank you very much, Katy, Holly, Karen, Nicole and Kacie.

LOL! It kind of threw me for a minute, I thought I was in the wrong person's thread.
LOL! I am the same way, I get to know people by their avatars and siggys, so I try to change only one thing at a time.

I didn't know that you were a champagne drinker?!?! I love champagne! Also I love going to plays, but I go to local plays at the auditorium. I'd love to take in a few broadway shows Maybe soon.

Champagne is one of my favs, too! Yay! I am so happy to hear you support local theatre! We are huge theatre goers and participants, but The Phantom has been one of those on our must see list and it was worth it.

[lea m]

I like your new pic too! Its very pretty! lol although i did the same as karen in thinking you were someone else!! hee hee

[jeni740]

I love the new pic, have you ever seen Beauty & the Beast?? I saw it in Toronto and it was so beautiful!! I want to see Phantom I have heard great things about it.:)

[ladymelissa]

Thank you Leanne!

I love the new pic, have you ever seen Beauty & the Beast?? I saw it in Toronto and it was so beautiful!! I want to see Phantom I have heard great things about it.

Thank you! Yes, we saw B&B last year and it was a phenomenal presentation. Phantom is spectacular and I doubt you would be disappointed, I will say that I do like the film a little better, as an overall work of art but trying to compare the film and play head to head is kind of unfair b/c

1. Film has so much more flexibility in terms of location and sets

2. The play is the original work which premiered 20 years ago, so there were opportunities to build on the concepts, make improvements and slight additions

But it is really cool to see them both and judge them yourself. Also the effects they do live on stage are UNBELIEVABLE, that alone is well worth it.

[Goin2thechapel]

Melissa,
Have you ever seen the play "Women who drive cars"?
It was the best play I've seen in a very long time! Sooo Funny!!! I don't think there was one person that wasn't laughing in that play.

[ladymelissa]

Melissa,
Have you ever seen the play "Women who drive cars"?
It was the best play I've seen in a very long time! Sooo Funny!!! I don't think there was one person that wasn't laughing in that play.
No, but I am going to have to remember that name. Sounds like a good one! I think I am going to google it. Thanks! I'll read it if nothing else.

[ladymelissa]

Hmmm, I just tried googling it and nothing that relates to a play came up. Do you know who wrote it or where you saw it?

[ladymelissa]

I couldn't even find it at Samuel French or Dramatists. :(

[SerendipityCrafts]

I love the new pic, have you ever seen Beauty & the Beast??

I wondered if Jen asked this question because when I saw the new pic I thought it reminds me of a disney character .... it reminds me of Belle! Very pretty Melissa!

http://lnx.ginevra2000.it/Disney/princesses1/card.jpg

[ladymelissa]

I wondered if Jen asked this question because when I saw the new pic I thought it reminds me of a disney character .... it reminds me of Belle! Very pretty Melissa!
Awwww, thank you.

[lize566]

A very disappointing showing by the Buckeyes. Heeeelllllllooooo! It's like the National Championship!!! At least the band played an appropriate number at halftime... the theme from Titanic.

It was very shocking and disappointing, wasn't it? I am not necessarily a buckeyes fan, but I still wanted a good game! I noticed the band's halftime performance, too, I thought the irony was hilarious!

[SaralovesMike]

I wondered if Jen asked this question because when I saw the new pic I thought it reminds me of a disney character .... it reminds me of Belle! Very pretty Melissa!

http://lnx.ginevra2000.it/Disney/princesses1/card.jpg

I actually thought the same thing too, how funny!

[ladymelissa]

I actually thought the same thing too, how funny!
Thank you!

[WhiskeyGirl]

lol your new avatar threw me off as well. Lol. But I love it, you are such a beautiful woman Melissa.

[ladymelissa]

lol your new avatar threw me off as well. Lol. But I love it, you are such a beautiful woman Melissa.
Thank you! It's amazing what the right camera angles can do for me. LOL I didn't think I would confuse so many people! LOL

Mike's car had been giving him some problems, so he took it into the shop. After $1200 in repairs the "check engine" light comes back on 5 miles down the road. He was not pleased and I am so glad that I won't be the person on the other end of the phone when he calls the shop back tomorrow. LOL

[WhiskeyGirl]

Thank you! It's amazing what the right camera angles can do for me. LOL I didn't think I would confuse so many people! LOL

Mike's car had been giving him some problems, so he took it into the shop. After $1200 in repairs the "check engine" light comes back on 5 miles down the road. He was not pleased and I am so glad that I won't be the person on the other end of the phone when he calls the shop back tomorrow. LOL

You are truely a gorgeous lady no matter what the camera angle is Melissa!! :D

Did they check the O2 (oxygen sensors) and emissions end of his vehicle? Most times when the MIL (check engine light) comes on, it has something to do with that. It sucks that he spent so much money only to have the light come on again, but perhaps it's not related. I worked in a garage for three years and I know your pain and annoyance!! lol. These darn vehicles we have, I swear most of them are glued together!! lol. Or at least that's what our buddy tells us about our dodge!! lol. (I don't believe it!! :wink: )

[ladymelissa]

Thank you! :)

Did they check the O2 (oxygen sensors) and emissions end of his vehicle?
That is precisely why he is peeved, they should have thoroughly checked the vehicle. They have extensive diagnostic machinery and there isn't much excuse for it. They put in a new sensor of some sort, I can't remember what it is called (it wasn't the O2 one) and a new fuel pump along with platinum spark plugs.

[hummingbird521]

I have to agree with Shawna on this one (not that that is bad, lol) but my car constantly kept the engine light coming on. It ended up being the O2 sensor on it as well. But it took months for them to figure it out because they would have to have the light on to hook up the equipment. and by the time i would drive there the darn light would go back off. Hope they figure out the problem.

[ladymelissa]

Hope they figure out the problem.

Yeah, me too! Thanks for the support. :)

[WhiskeyGirl]

Yeah those dang check engine lights...usually they will store a code so that the mechanic can pull it up to see what is going on with it. Is he taking it to a dealer ship? I worked for an independant owner, who had worked for GM all his life, but when he became independent his diagnostic tool wouldn't always pull up the codes. For some reason the dealer ships like to put in "Secret" codes! lol. It's such a pain having to have one fixed and fixing them! lol. Wouldn't it just be easier if we all had horse and buggies?? lol. Usually when our check engine light comes on we'll drive it until the next service or when it's conveinant for us to get it checked, but from my training and back ground, if it's somehting thats going ot make your car die, the check engine light won't have time to come on!! lol. So usually as long as it's not making really wrong noises or smoking or anything, it's usually the o2 sensors! lol. If only car manufactors could come up with a real vehicle that never breaks down!!! But then they'd be out of business! lol

[lea m]

My sis had the same problem a while back and they told her it was her catalitic converter!?? Where they ripping her off then?? Cost her a small fortune for a new one! lol
Hope they get it sorted for your DH soon Melissa! I hate my car! lol We thought the clutch had gone as Joe couldnt get it out of second gear lol but its not?? so i dont know whats up with mine but i dont want to drive it now which means i cant go in for my driving test!!? never mind lol