EYES WIDE OPEN

Stepping Out

2012-01-31T10:08:00.000-08:00

You may think I walk blindly when I step out in my Faith.
But I walk with a vision that even lasik can't create.

I used to be shackled by my past and all my fears.
But today I walk with a confidence developed through experience & tears.

This feeling of freedom is hard to describe.
But it's with me when I wake up and at night when I close my eyes.

My heart is so full it's overflowing, makes me want to sing & dance.
Happiness, love, and peace-God's intimate romance.

A SoCal Christmas

2011-12-29T15:29:00.000-08:00

I had a wonderfully relaxing Christmas here in L.A. For some reason, this year I've felt the holiday spirit more than I have in a very long time. And although, there's nothing like being at home with my family for Christmas, it made me feel good to shop for and create special gifts to send to them in Pennsylvania.

My sister Erin and I were on a crafting kick this year. Probably because as a kid, my mom always kept us busy making ornaments, sewing, cooking, and being creative during the weeks leading up to Christmas. It felt natural to bring that tradition to California. For weeks, my house has been littered with glue guns, brushes, paint, glitter, and wrapping paper. A beautiful mess!

I also attended some really fun holiday parties, actually mailed out all my Christmas cards, and even made it to an acting class two days before Christmas. I've been having so much fun in Mike Pointer's class, I couldn't imagine missing it.

Chronicles of a Working Actress: Commercial Class and Kickin' Wayne Brady's Ass!

2011-12-13T18:17:00.000-08:00

It's been a slow last couple of weeks for me. But at this time of year, it's a welcomed break from the normal hustle bustle of Hollywood. I've only had one audition in the last two weeks, so I've been taking the time to update my acting reel and other "marketing materials" get into a new acting class, and work with my Improv group, Dirty Business.

So I got involved with Dirty Business a few months ago. Everyone in the group is a member of UCB (Upright Citizen's Brigade) in Hollywood. The best way to describe our Improv team is a rag-a-matag group of misfits who enjoy being on stage playing uncomfortable characters that say off the wall things. Basically-we're you're high school drama department all grown up and wearing very trendy eyeglasses. Our coach is Jacob Reed-a smart, quick witted comedian who somehow keeps our energetic bunch focused enough to work "The Harold" (a longform Improv technique developed by Del Close). I've really been having a blast getting to know my teammates. Every one of them is unique and funny in their own way. They definitely keep me on my toes and working hard to stay on my game.

I also just starting taking a commercial acting class with Mike Pointer. My actor friends have been telling me about this class for years. But I've always been too busy working on some project or another. So I guess being an out of work actress does have it's advantages because I'm SO happy I took Mike's class! He's not just an acting teacher, he's like a motivational speaker, mind & body fitness guru and life coach all wrapped into one. You see, commercial acting is very different then film and tv acting. Acting for commercials is more personality driven, similar to hosting. It's all about being upbeat, smiley and selling, selling, selling. Mike has given me some excellent pointers on how to feel comfortable walking into a commercial audition, what to wear, how to connect with the casting directors before and after the audition and how to bring life to lines of commercial copy.

Here's my video from the first day of class. It's a "personality question" that commercial casting directors will often ask when you get in front of the camera. Sometimes, the question will be totally random and have nothing to do with the product. They just want to see how at ease you are answering in front of a camera and a room full of strangers.

During the second week's class, Mike had us get up and read some ICE COLD copy. That means, we picked up the paper and read it right in front of the camera without being given a minute to review it. Remember, this was the first time I laid eyes on the copy. Don't judge me.

Last week, I also decided to sit in on a taping of Wayne Brady's game show, "Let's Make a Deal". It was a fun experience, but probably would have been even more fun if I went with a friend or family member visiting L.A. for the first time. The audience members have to dress up in costumes. As we stood in line to get in to the studio, it was like being at a Halloween party for an Alcoholics Anonymous support group. Way too many adults dressed up like freaks in the middle of the day without a drop of booze to numb the awkwardness.

I didn't get chosen to Make a Deal, but Wayne played one of the fast cash games with me at the end of the show. We played rock, paper, scissors and I lost. For a brief second, I imagined what would happen if I kicked Wayne Brady in the ass when he walked away with all that cash in his hand. I'd probably end up in CBS Studio jail. I was wearing a cheerleading uniform as my costume, so who knows WHAT they would have done to me in there...

Chronicles of a Working Actress: Ashlyn's audition

2011-12-05T11:57:00.000-08:00

I absolutely LOVE working with kids. I have such a soft spot in my heart for them. If I could, I'd adopt a small tribe of my own, and maybe one day I will. But until then, I enjoy working with them in front of and behind the camera.

This weekend, I had another opportunity to work with a lovely little actress named Ashlyn Burrus. Ashlyn and I met last year when my production team auditioned her for a role in a short form music video I was producing with LeAnna Hallman.

LeA and I instantly fell in love with Ashlyn and cast her as the role of "Maya" in our project. I was playing Ashlyn's mom-a drug addicted single parent who was separated from Maya's dad. Maya takes off into the city with her best friend to escape the tensions at home, and ends up going on exciting and sometimes dangerous adventures. Ashlyn did a fantastic job as Maya. So I was thrilled when her mother, Dina, called and asked me to help Ashlyn with a film audition.

Sometimes, directors will request an on-camera audition be sent in if an actor can't make it to an in-person audition. This was the case with Ashlyn. So her mom, Dina, and I organized an audition shoot.

I called up a director friend named Steve Smith to help us with the project. (Check out his reel on vimeo. It's fantastic! http://vimeo.com/31941014) Thankfully-Steven was on board and helped to bring the script to life. I also put in a call to my good friend, Josh Davis, to play Ashlyn's dad in the audition scene. He really looks like he be her dad, right! And he's a dream to work with, as I knew from many other projects Josh and I acted in together. http://www.imdb.com/name/nm3067344/

Once Josh gave the thumbs up and my friend, Edo allowed us to shoot at his house-we were all set!

The day went off without a hitch. We knocked out two scenes in a matter of hours. Now, our director/cinematographer Steve is busy editing it. I'll share it as soon as it's done. But until then, here's a quick video about our day.

After we completed shooting for the day, Ashlyn announced that we need to shoot a feature film together immediately. Hey-the kid knows what she wants & puts it out there. After pitching me her idea, I encouraged her to sit down and start writing it. And she did. I proudly introduce..."Summer Adventures!"

Chronicles of a Working Actress: L'effleur des Sens

2011-11-29T14:46:00.000-08:00

The best part of being a working actress is the random but cool gigs that come my way. I got a phone call from one of my dancer friends, Roxanne Arvizu. (Check out her page on vimeo: http://vimeo.com/29855933).
We've worked on many a dance show over the past year and we always have such a great time together. So I was delighted to hear her voice on the other line.

There's an incredible dance show-a French cabaret called, L'effleur des Sens, that was a hit in L.A. a few years back. The show has returned for two nights, and the director, Cati, was looking for actresses to play ambiance characters. Which essentially means, you are costumed and playing a role to create the mood and vibe on stage and throughout the venue. It sounded like an easy and fun assignment. Plus, I had seen the show before and knew how spectacular it was 3 years ago.

From singing, to comedy, to acrobatics-the performers in L'effleur des Sens are out of this world! So the idea of getting paid to enjoy a fabulous show and play a small role in creating the magic for the audience? I was in!

Chronicles of a Working Actress

2011-11-23T15:39:00.000-08:00

My name is Shannon Komai McClain and I'm a working actress. Which means I'm often LOOKING for work. There. It's what I signed up for when I got into this business. People think being an actor is all glamour, red carpets, parties and champagne. Sure, that's part of it. It's great to be working on a fun project where you've got your own trailer and there's people who are paid to do your make-up and hair and ensure you look your best. But in actuality, I spend 75% of my time LOOKING for work. Searching out the next gig. Going to auditions. Sending out my headshot. Meeting with my agent. But an actor (even the famous ones) tend to have ALOT of free time on there hands between gigs. Luckily, I'm no longer calling home asking for help to pay my rent. But trust me-I've been there. And it's not fun.

Anyway, I figured I'll share my experiences with you. The highs and lows. The rejection and disappointment. The successes and failures. And what I'm doing when I'm NOT auditioning. All of it. Plus, I've got a lot of time on my hands since I'm not working. And spending part of the day writing this blog makes me feel like less of a loser.

Today was actually a pretty cool day. I had an audition on the FOX lot in West L.A. for a new show on TBS called "The Wedding Band." It stars Brian Austin Green and it's being directed by Bryan Gordon (who directed "Curb Your Enthusiasm"). Plus, it's always interesting when my outfit for an audition is so short-if a gusty wind blew-my lower lips may be exposed. Yup- I'd be playing a stripper named Stormy Weathers....sorry Mom.

I arrived at FOX early. I pulled up to the security gate feeling good until I found out I was at the wrong entrance. When I finally made it to the right one, parked, and got lost for about 10 minutes on the huge studio lot (thanks alot security guy at Gate 4!), I made it to the casting office with seconds to spare. About 20 minutes later, they called me into the room. I walked past the other ladies standing around reading lines in barely there dresses and greeted the two casting associates. I took my mark in front of the camera and slated myself-which basically means looking into the camera and stating your name- then I went right into my audition. It was only a few lines of dialogue and two scenes, so I had it all memorized and didn't need my script. For the second scene, the casting director asked me to show some of my dance moves, then go into my dialogue. She seemed really pleased with my performance and told me I did great.

Ten minutes later, I was making my way back to my car. We'll see what happens from here.....

These Are A Few of My Favorite Things

2011-10-31T12:08:00.000-07:00

Passion. It's what gets you fired up. That thing that inspires you to make a stand, speak out, and push caution to the wind.

Outside of my family and friends, I'm passionate about fitness (physical, mental, emotional and spiritual). I'm passionate about empowering women and protecting children. And I have to admit, I also have a passion for fashion. So, I wanted to share a few of my favorite things that get ME fired up and feeling frisky.

WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN:
You see it on Reality Shows. Whether they're Basketball Wives, Housewives, or Bad Girls, some women can be downright mean and catty! I've been at the receiving end of such behavior. It was at my first job in the entertainment industry as a a production assistant. My boss, an unnamed female producer seemed to despise me from day 1 for no apparent reason. After being cursed at, demeaned, and demoralized by her, I finally spoke up and was removed by my executive producers and placed on another production team. I wasn't used to dealing with other women who wanted to put me down rather than lift me up. In high school on my cheerleading squad and track team, and even on the dance team in college, I never encountered women that were so disparaging. But I knew from that day on, I would never be THAT kind of female boss. When I reached a point in my career where I was calling the shots, I made sure to support the younger women around me and encourage and empower them to work hard and do better. Another women that promotes that message is Life Coach and Motivational Speaker, Jaclyn Vocell.

Jaclyn is an ex-Division 1 college basketball player and holds a psychology degree from Brown University. A broadcaster, mentor, and noted public speaker, Jaclyn continues to encourage men and women alike to reach for their dreams. And as of this Summer, she's also apart of my family! She recently married my cousin, Taber.

Another one of my favorite females is Kimberly Mynessa Smith of KMS Fashion Consultants. Kimberly's Southern California based company helps women regain their power through looking and feeling FABULOUS! Ms. Kimberly serves as head stylist and consultant for business men and women, musicians, busy moms and women returning to work after taking off time for baby. Her goal is to encourage women and men to put their best fashion foot forward in the workplace and on the street. Kimberly reminds her clients that looking good equals feeling good. Her positive attitude, upbeat energy and eye for honing in on her client's unique style makes her one of the best in the industry. If you're looking to clean out your closet, update your look, or dress for a special occasion, Kimberly is your woman!

FITNESS FOR LIFE:
I am a huge advocate of fitness! And not just for superficial reasons like being thin or looking good-but for the overall feeling of wellness that comes with taking time to take care of YOU! Some of my favorite ways to get fit don't involve simply sweating away inside a smelly gym. These are a few of my favorite get fit tricks.....

Salsa Dancing-it's not just for your Latin friends. It's a great way to not only get in shape, but also meet some really interesting people, and get your mojo moving. I fell in love with salsa when my older sister Angela started dating a handsome Ecuadorian named, Omar. Angela and her beau would take me salsa dancing with them at different clubs in Philly, New York and New Jersey. Today, my sister and her salsero are married with five kids. Talk about getting your mojo going! They did a spectacular salsa dance at their wedding 9 years ago and have been making sweet salsa together ever since.

If you feel like you've got two left feet, don't give up yet. There's bound to be some patient salsa teachers in your area. Here in L.A., Lisa Feliciano at The Salsa Box Studios is one of my personal favorite. She can take a bumbling non-dancer and turn them into a suave salsero! Visit her website for more details: www.thesalsaboxstudios.com

Once you've got your basic salsa step down, why not try taking it out to the clubs. A few of my favorite spots to shake it are: The Conga Room in downtown Los Angeles, The Warehouse on Friday nights in Marina del Rey, and The Floor Improv night (once a month). The Floor is BY FAR, my favorite monthly dance event in L.A. It's produced by two beautiful and talented dancers-Sascha Escandon and Carolina Cerisola (who you may recognize from Justin Timberlake's video "Senorita"). It's a night where musicians, dancers, and lovers of dance come together to move, groove, and Imrovise. The energy in the room is electric! If you're in Los Angeles, you've gotta check it out. http://thefloorproductions.com/

Yoga is another way that I like to keep my body, mind, and spirit healthy. I've been to dozens of studios throughout Los Angeles, and by far, Dale Murphy is my favorite instructor. He teaches Vinyasa yoga and incorporates breathing, meditation and poses into his practice. His class attracts equal parts male and female students ranging in age from 18-80 years old! He assists his students in customizing the poses to suit their individual level of experience. Each time I go to his class, I leave feeling grounded, stronger, and so much happier. Practicing with Dale has really changed my life. Visit his website for classes both in-studio and on the beach. www.fostercalmyoga.com

When I want something a little more interactive then a downward dog, I'll head to Marina del Rey for some kayaking. It's a relatively cheap activity to get your body moving. AND, you get to enjoy gliding through the sailboats in the marina while watching the seals sunning themselves on the dock. Not only that, there are tons of fantastic restaurants, so you can enjoy a healthy meal or a cocktail and watch the sunset, once you've gotten your kayak on of course! Visit their website for rental info: http://boats4rent.com/marina-del-rey/

GIVING BACK:

Just lost your job? Split from your significant other? Put on a few extra pounds or just feeling depressed? The best way to forget about your own troubles is to give your time to others who really need it. When I was laid off from my writing/producing job in 2009, a friend asked me if I'd like to spend my free Friday volunteering with him for Meals on Wheels. I said yes. Because-let's be honest. I'd look like a complete selffish bi-atch if I didn't. So we drove to Santa Monica's Meals on Wheels office, loaded our car with food and the copies of the daily newspaper and started delivering. The look on the faces of the elderly people we met was more than enough for me to do it again. They were so excited to have just a few minutes chatting with someone. Most of them live alone, or can't get to the grocery store, so Meals on Wheels provides them with fresh, healthy food. I talked to one older gentleman about the Phillies. Another elderly woman loved my earrings and we spoke about her jewelry collection. Each oen of them shared a tidbit of wisdom with me, and at the end of the day, I felt like the lucky one. If you're looking for a place to volunteer a few hours a month, or around the Holidays, visit: http://www.mowaa.org/

Another organization that I'm very passionate about is Face Forward. Because of my experience with Domestic Violence, I feel a connection to women and children who've been exposed to or abused at the hands of a spouse or significant other. And Face Forward is a fantastic organzation that provides physical and emotional reconstruction for women and children who have been victimized by domestic or gang related violence. If you'd like to get involved or contribute to Face Forward visit their website: http://facela.net/

They Like Me! They REALLY Like Me!

2011-10-04T11:33:00.000-07:00

Or at least I hope they do.

I just started a new Facebook page. I'll be getting rid of the old one in favor of my fan page, so LIKE it! =)

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Shannon-Komai-McClain/290015861015981

Starlet Diaries

2011-10-03T14:54:00.000-07:00

When someone asks me what I do for a living, I'm never quite sure what to say.

"I work in the Entertainment Industry" inevitably leads to another question. "What do you do?" "Are you an actress?" "Do you know any celebrities?" "Can you introduce me to someone famous?" But it would take at least 20 minutes to REALLY explain what I do, because my life is anything but normal. From one day to the next-I could be on stage rehearsing for an Improv show, shooting a film, interviewing celebrities on the red carpet, or in a meeting about hosting a new pop culture talk show.

Last Friday morning, while wearing my producer hat, I received a call from my agent telling me I had an afternoon audition for the ABC show, "Castle." When I got the call, I was writing and editing for "On the Red Carpet" just a few miles away from the "Castle" casting offices in Burbank.

I told my agent I could make the audition, as I tried to figure out how I'd actually make it work. Now most auditions require research and at LEAST a few hours of preparation. However, the character I'd be playing was a showgirl with only a few lines. I've performed on stage in sequins and feathers more times than I can count. And I had watched "Castle" a few times before, so I figured I could finish up my day producing OTRC and make it to my audition in time.

After writing, editing and shooting in studio with my "On the Red Carpet" host, Chris Balish, I jumped in my car and sped over to the nearest mall to pick up an outfit that would say, "I can play a showgirl, but I'm not dumb enough to actually wear a showgirl costume to this audition."

First stop-Forever 21 for a blue and black sequinned tank and a cute, light blue blazer.

Next stop-Victoria's Secret. The girls there were fantastic! I showed them the tank I bought and said, "Ladies-I have an audition in an hour. I've got 10 minutes to increase my boobs by two cup sizes. Can you help me?"

"Yes we can!" They brought me an array of solid and glittery bras. I chose the one that said "I'm a showgirl, but I'm not a slut," and changed and freshened up my make up in the VS dressing room.

An hour later, after running my lines and watching a few more clips of the show on my cell phone, I walked in to meet the casting directors wearing black linen shorts, black pumps my sequined top covered by a light blazer, with some sparkly earrings and a diamond cuff bracelet to finish off the look.

I felt good about the audition. Even if I don't get the role, just getting into the room with some major casting directors and showing them what I can do is a great opportunity. Then the next time my headshot passes across their desk, hopefully they'll remember me and call me in for an even larger role.

After my audition, I stopped by a party my agency, The Polygon Group, was having for all their clients. It was a great chance to chit chat with some of the agents I hadn't met yet and share some stories and experiences with other actors.

So now it's Monday, and my weekly schedule is already crammed full of meetings and photo shoots, and rehearsals. But the thing I'm most excited about is going home to Pennsylvania in 2 weeks for my cousin, Olivia's wedding. I'm counting down the days until I can spend some long overdue time with my family and good friends. The people I can talk to about things other than who's wearing what on the red carpet. It feels really good to know that I can slow down for a week and help my little cousin celebrate her wedding. I can lay on the floor with my niece and nephews and laugh and play Shoots & Ladders. I can drink a glass of wine with my sisters and talk about life and love and family. I can help my mom plant some flowers in her garden, then sit on her front patio and have tea. I'm defnitely blessed with a very cool job, but it's those moments with my family that I cherish most of all.

UCB Improv class show

2011-09-12T17:43:00.000-07:00

I'll be performing this Saturday, September 17th @ 1:15pm with my Upright Citizens Brigade Improv class at the UCB Theatre. Come check out the show! Tickets are $5 at the door.

Hope to see you there!

xo
Shannon

Remembering 9-11

2011-09-12T17:02:00.000-07:00

I wanted to write about September 11th yesterday, but I couldn't pull myself away from the documentaries long enough to blog. And it seemed inappropriate to post a measly 140 character tweet for something that was so life-altering for every American.

I still can't believe it's been 10 years since September 11th. Like most people, I remember exactly where I was when I heard the news. I was in college at Villanova University- getting ready to leave my North Campus apartment for my women's studies class when I turned on the tv and saw smoke pouring from the North Tower of The World Trade Center. I stood in utter shock, then immediately thought of my roommate and best friend, Dee, who had driven the 2 hours to New York City with her family to see a Jackson concert. I ran to her bedroom and knocked on her door. She was there. She told me they'd decided to drive home to PA rather than spend the day in NYC shopping. I told her what happened and she immediately turned on her tv and screamed. She frantically tried calling her dad, and her mom who was a flight attendant for US Airways based out of Pittsburgh.

I tried calling my sister who was a freshman at Temple University. I hoped she had not decided to take a last minute excursion to New York with her friends. I couldn't get through. All phone lines were tied up.

I realized I was going to be late for my class, but I couldn't pull myself away from the tv screen. And then, a plane struck the South Tower. Dee and I screamed. We instantly knew this was no accident. We'd both been to New York City countless times and had never seen a plane fly that close to the buildings in Manhattan. Our two other roommates appeared and we all sat there wondering what was going to happen next. Not long after the second plane hit, you could see people either falling or jumping from the burning inferno. I began to cry. I thought about the fear and desparation a human being must feel to jump from that height. I thought about the Villanova students that were from New York. I'd guess over 1/2 our student body was from New York and New Jersey. The devastation they must be feeling at that moment had to be incredible. I tried calling my boyfriend who lived in L.A. but was from New York. I reached him and we talked for awhile. He tried comforting me, but I was already in the grips of fear. The images being broadcast were like a war scene. People running through the streets of New York crying, screaming, looking like zombies as they searched for people they knew.

I don't remember walking across campus into my women's studies class. I just remember all my classmates sitting in a daze and our professor telling us the first tower had just fallen and class was cancelled. I walked back to my apartment and didn't move from the tv for the rest of the day. I finally got a hold of my mom who said my sister was safe in her dormroom in Philly. I also learned that a plane had struck the Pentagon just a few hours south of us in D.C. And another plane had gone down West of us in a field in Pennsylvania. I wondered if the next plane was headed for the central point-Philadelphia.

Philly was closed down. Everyone was shocked. Afraid. I don't think anyone could have ever imagined such a thing happening on American soil. We were the U.S of A.
A super power. The strongest nation in the world. But we were not safe that day from tragedy, grief nor pain.

When the second tower fell, there was an eerie silence. It felt like a nightmare. So many lives gone in a matter of minutes.

Looking back now, I still feel a deep sadness for the families that lost loved ones. The people who didn't get a chance to say good bye to a parent, child, best friend, or lover. I also can't help but to think about the images of those brave fire fighters walking into those two buildings. I wonder if they knew. Even if they did-they went in anyway-because that was what they had been trained to do.

The NYFD and NYPD gave new meaning to the word bravery and honor. They sacrificed their lives to save others. Those men are truly heroes.

A Coatesville Story....

2011-09-06T15:24:00.000-07:00

I can still remember the moment that I knew I wanted to be an actress. It was under very unconventional circumstances that I made the decision.

I was in second grade; a new student at Benner Elementary School in Coatesville, Pennsylvania. I had just started public school after attending a private Christian school a few miles away. I was used to being surrounded by disciplined little boys and girls dressed in long skirts and thick stockings; the boys in ties and collared shirts. Little soldiers for Jesus.

But not at Benner Elementary. This school was different. Benner was a melting pot of different races and socio-economic classes. The kids could wear what ever they wanted (which I loved). Some of them walked to school, while others were bussed in. They ran through the halls and were loud and rambunctious. Sometimes they talked back to the teachers and they didn't even get paddled for it, like we did at Grace Baptist.

I loved my new school. I especially loved English class because we were reading "James and the Giant Peach." I would get so excited when it was my turn to read aloud. I would use different voices for each character. And the teacher normally let me read 3 pages instead of 2, because I was fast and didn't stumble over my words. The smaller class sizes at Grace Baptist Christian School meant all the kids got more attention from the teachers and learned FAST. I'd been reading full books since kindergarten. My mom had just bought me the entire Little House on the Prairie book series and I was almost done.

But it became pretty clear that not everyone was impressed with my reading skills. Walking home from school in October, a few of the girls from my school decided to follow me.

"Hey Shannon. Why you always raising your hand in class? What? You think your white or something?" they asked me.

One of the girls pushed me hard from behind. "No." I replied picking up my pace, hoping they'd cross the street at the next light.

"Yes you do. You read like a white girl. You think your so pretty, don't you?" another girl said punching me in my back.

I dropped my school book. Bending over to pick it up, I prayed they didn't see the tears forming behind my eyes. "I never said that."

"White girl. You're not pretty! You won't be after I'm done with you." This time it was the older sister of one of the girls. She was big. Maybe 5th grade. Actually, it was probably her third time in the 5th grade.

I held my book bag tight and ran as fast as I could ducking into the little shop on the corner. The two older white ladies behind the counter looked at me curiously.

"Welcome to Hennnessy's pharmacy. How can I help you?"

I leaned against the door trying to catch my breath. Angrily brushing away my tears, I pointed to some candy behind the counter.

"Are you okay sweetie?" the dark haired woman asked handing me a few jolly ranchers.

Afraid to answer, I looked through the window and saw the group of girls waiting for me.

"Are those girls messing with you?"

I nodded. My mouth was frozen from fear.

"Well don't you worry about them. Sit down right here at the counter, and I'll get you some ice cream. What kind do you want?"

"I like cookies and cream."

As the lady with the light hair scooped me out some ice cream, the dark-haired lady went to the door and shooed the girls away. I sat nervously eating my ice cream.

"My name is Sandy," the dark haired woman said. I gave her a half-smile. "I'm Shannon."

"Why are those girls picking on you?" the light haired lady asked. I saw from her name tag she was Betty.

I shrugged.

"Well, they shouldn't be. Do you live around here?" Betty questioned.

"Yes. I live on Chestnut Street. Right next to the funeral home."

"Wentz Funeral home?" Sandy asked. "I know that house. I know the man who used to live in that old house. He and his wife were there for about 60 years. Hmmm. Is your mommy at home?"

"She'll be home soon. My big sister is at home though."

"Well, looks like those girls are gone," Betty said. "You let your mama know what happened. And here-take some candy with you. You stop in and say hi to us sometimes okay?"

"I will. Thank-you Miss Sandy. Thank you Miss Betty."

When I went home and told my mom about my run in with the bullies, that was the end of me walking home alone. From that point on, my older sister Angela came and picked me up from school everyday. And she was not happy about it. She had drama club after school. My mom told her she'd have to leave her practice at 2:45 to walk to Benner to pick me up at 3, then walk me back to her drama practice and take me with her. My own personal bodyguard. Not that that stopped the girls from taunting me on the playground and in the hallways. But at least my sister was there to protect me after school.

So for the rest of the year, I'd sit in the back of the auditorium after school while Angela was on stage rehearsing. Gordon Middle School was doing a production of "West Side Story" and Angie was playing Anita. And my older sister was AMAZING! She would sing and dance across that stage with such power and grace. I almost believed that she was really from Puerto Rico as she sang "America" at the top of her lungs.

Sitting and watching my sister in action, I knew that's what I wanted to do. My first day at Gordon, I rushed to the drama club meeting after school. I was finally old enough to get up on that stage and sing and dance and act and play. I knew from that first day in the back of the auditorium that being a performer was what I wanted to do. Nothing else (except maybe reading), provided such a beautiful escape from my life, my worries. On stage, I felt free. I felt more like me.

Daddy Dear

2011-09-03T20:28:00.000-07:00

She hides alone inside her room
Frozen by her fear.
Daddy's yelling at mom again,
His anger brings her tears.
The little girl keeps wondering why,
mommy let's him near.
She prays tomorrow will come soon,
So daddy will see things clear.

Daddy dear, I still love you
I know it's not your fault
You're sick inside, don't like your life.
Do you blame me at all?

He's not around for Christmas time
birthdays or Halloween.
When she needs him most of all,
He disappears, it seems.
When he decides to come back home,
He promises he'll stay clean.
She wishes he could be the man,
she sees inside her dreams.
　
Daddy dear, I still love you
I know it's not your fault
You're sick inside, don't like your life.
Do you blame me at all?
　
He finally leaves, this time for good
To go or stay's the same.
He's drunk so much, she wonders if
he even knows her name.
Little girl-don't you cry,
Do not be ashamed.
Life will get better as time goes by,
Your pain is not in vain.

Daddy dear, I still love you
I know it's not your fault
I'm trying hard to understand
This is your fatal flaw.

She grows up and lives her life,
But trusting is hard to do.
She doesn't think a man can connect
and give her what she's due.
All those years spent looking for
a man to love her true
When all she wants is her daddy's love
a pure love through & through.

Daddy dear, I still love you
I know it's not your fault
I'm letting go of the pain
that lives inside my heart.

© SKM

Give me that book, or else....

2011-09-03T10:06:00.000-07:00

I'll admit it. I'm a nerd. My idea of a romantic date would involve the two of us sitting on the floor of a Barnes & Noble reading random pages out of books to each other. Actually, that's also my idea of a fun Saturday afternoon alone.

As a 4th grade latch key kid, I spent most of my afternoons hanging out at the library next to my elementary school. Although I had a key to my house, I wasn't allowed to go home until 30 minutes before my mom got home from work. Mom thought I'd burn down the house if I was there for 3 hours by myself after school. So the librarians served as my pseudo baby sitters. I'd do my homework, then wonder around reading books, magazines, whatever I could find to entertain myself. As a result, I'm now a voracious reader. I LOVE reading books. And I'm a speed reader, so I'm constantly on the hunt for a good book.

My sister, Erin, gets nervous whenever I come over to her apartment and she has a new book sitting around. She knows I'll want to borrow it and read it in a day-beating her to the ending. The two of us are quite competitive. So when I ask sweetly to borrow it, she'll refuse. I'll complain and tell her I'll return it tomorrow. She'll adamantly say no. Then I'll negotiate some sort of deal with her-because I MUST read that book!

The two books on my night stand right now are Mika Brzezinski's "Knowing Your Value: Women, Money, and Getting What You're Worth" and "Bossy Pants" by Tina Fey. I've been wanting to read Tina Fey's book ever since I started working in Improv and Comedy. I'm looking forward to seeing how she navigated the comedy world, especially as a woman.

I stumbled upon Mika's book yesterday at B&N. Once I picked it up, I couldn't put it down. My interest was definitely sparked because of my current job, working in the newsroom at KABC-Los Angeles. I watch the smart, beautiful, hard-nosed reporters doing their thing at the news desk, while I type away stories about Marc Anthony & JLo, and what movie is pulling in the most at the box office. Once upon a time, I imagined myself as one of those hard-nosed reporters. Then I realized I'd have to work in markets like Tuscaloosa or Walla Walla, Washington and decided I'd stick to the stage and acting. But here I am now, a reporter of sorts. It's funny how life works.

Remember Not to Forget

2011-08-30T18:07:00.000-07:00

After seeing a “get over slavery” type of post on Facebook today, I had to step on my soap box for just a minute:

People-as much as you may want to forget-the sad reality is that our country was built upon slave labor-the blood, sweat, tears, separation and destruction of families. So there is an energetic “icky-ness” that exists here in the U.S. that doesn’t exist in those countries that never experienced slavery. I know this from traveling & living outside of the U.S. and speaking to people from other countries who have moved here. I’ve been told by more than a few foreign-born people that they never understood what racism was until they came to the U.S. and experienced it themselves, or saw it first-hand. And these are not black people that are saying this. These are Columbians, Brazilians, Moroccans, etc.

I had a dinner conversation just last night with a Columbian woman who moved to the US when she was 11 years old and went to school in a predominantly white area in Southern California. Kids would make fun of her because she spoke with an accent. They assumed she was stupid, that she came from a country without electricity, and that she was poor. When she was asked to check a box saying what her race was, she didn’t understand the question. Was she supposed to say she was Caucasian? Her skin was fair and her hair blonde. But her nationality was Columbiana; her language-Espanol. When she began taking American history and learned how blacks in this country were stolen from their land, forced to work as slaves on tobacco and cotton farms in the hot Southern sun, separated from their children, partners, and loved ones- she was disgusted. She said she couldn’t believe that human beings could treat each other this way. It was like a bad nightmare.

Although slavery happened a long time ago, Jim Crow laws were in effect just 46 years ago. That’s the generation of people who are now in their 50’s like my mom & dad. So yes, we have come far. But racism still exists. As do the privilege and entitlement that persists in a country that is still feeling the effects of slavery. There are certain privileges that I have been afforded as a “light skinned”/ mixed race person, that my brown-skinned mother was not given. For me to deny that fact would be ridiculous. It’s reality. And in the same way, there are certain privileges that white people are still afforded that non-whites are not. Just like the rich have certain privileges the poor don’t … and attractive people, and so on….To believe otherwise would be like believing in unicorns. Is this an excuse to hold on to anger and treat others poorly? Absolutely not. But it IS also important to remember. So the same mistakes aren’t repeated 1 or 2 generations in the future. We don’t need another genocide of an entire race of people like what happened to American-Indians, Jews, or those in Darfur or Rwanda.

It is a lesson that we have to remember NOT to forget.

2011-08-29T17:11:00.000-07:00

Hey!

Just wanted to share a music video that I produced with my new fave director, Rob Lambert. The video is called "Feel This" and depicts a unique story about how two brothers' life choices take them down divergent paths. (I make a cameo in it too ;-)

Hope you enjoy!

Feel This from Rob Lambert on Vimeo.

xo
Shannon

Acting Up

2011-08-22T23:25:00.000-07:00

Isn't it something when you've had a great day and you come home to some news that just bursts your bubble? Yup. That was my day today. Got a lot done at work. Feeling accomplished, I left a bit early to stop at the car wash and then catch an Improv show at Upright Citizen's Brigade. My friend bailed out on seeing the show with me, but I ran into some classmates from my Improv class, so I had a few familiar faces to sit with. After finally making it home around 10pm, I check my phone and see an email from my agent.

I regret to inform you....

Well, that's never a good start. And it ended exactly as I expected. I'd been dropped like a hot potato. Ok. No representation does not mean the end of the world. I still have a manager that I trust and believe in who believes in me. And if this is a test of my faith in myself, then it will soon prove to be a TESTament. This is a tough business that if you don't know who you are and where you're going-the Industry will break you. Lucky for me, I know where I come from and I know where I'm going. And I'll get there by the grace of God.

As soon as I got the email, I looked back in my notes from a message I got at church a few weeks ago. And the message re-affirmed my immediate reaction. God has plans to do radical things with my life. To use me in ways that I can't envision or even fathom in my limited vision. And by that-I'm not talking about just my career. Because although acting is my passion, serving God and being of service to His people is my purpose. Acting is the medium He will use to prosper me and in turn, prosper others.

So this news doesn't break me. Not even close. It allows me to surrender even further to the will of God working in my life. Because I KNOW he has not brought me through so many dark places, bad relationships and experiences to bring me to this place of blessing and prosperity and then allow me fail. One door may have closed, but that's because God is pulling the roof off the house to pour down His blessings in incredible ways. And I welcome this change with open arms, eager to acknowledge that it's through His grace that I've become a success.

I Choose Love

2011-07-27T10:51:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I've blogged. Life has been busy. Working on various creative projects, developing new projects, and I have a new producing gig with KABC.

No matter what projects I'm working on though, I'm constantly pushing forward on my acting career. Because ultimately, that is where my passion lies. I've had a lot of great things happening with my acting this year - what with J. Edgar...but there's always new horizons to see, more challenges and even larger roles that I'd like to take on.

So last night, I had a great conversation with my agent. I really like him because he keeps it real with me. It was one of those talks where he's managing my expectations. And I get that. As a producer, I have to do that often with clients & artists. Basically my agent let me know that there are alot of actresses out there who are the same age as me, have more credits and more contacts in this business. And he's right. But after I hung up the phone with him, I took a moment to reflect....

There have been many instances in my life when people have had "the odds are stacked against you" conversation with me. And in every one of those instances, it's only served as fuel for me to accomplish my goals. If I believed that because something seemed tough and damn near impossible that I should just give up-then I NEVER would be where I am today. In fact, I probably would have gotten pregnant at 16, graduated with my GED, never left Coatesville or went to college, lived off of public assistance with 4 kids by 3 different men and became a grandmother at 31. But I didn't.

MY reality is, sure-the odds may be stacked against me, but God is OBVIOUSLY for me. And I'll put my money on God every single time.

I was born into a multi-racial family. My father, although he loved me very much, was plagued by the disease called addiction. And this addiction was like a cancer in our family. It ate away at each and everyone of us emotionally, mentally, and financially. My mother tried to battle his disease and supported him for years. But when it became clear that she couldn't take care of three young girls and a grown man who physically abused her-she separated from him. It was probably the smartest decision she ever made. Smart, not just for her own physical safety, but for the health and well-being of myself and my sisters.

It was a daily nightmare when my dad lived with us. And after he left, there was peace, but boy did we struggle. My father's family helped us as they could. And my mom's tightly knit family tried to pitch in as well. Our church family was also a great support. But we still struggled.

Looking back now, I don't know how my mom managed it all. She worked like crazy, and still had the energy to cart us around to dance classes, school plays, and girl scout meetings. She was actively involved in local politics and took us with her to work the polls on voting day. She even took in foster children who needed a temporary home. She provided a safe environment for all of us to grow, study, and learn how to become women.

My mother never had "the odds are stacked against you" talk with me. She always (and still to this day) reminds me that I can do anything. She really believes that my opportunities are limitless. If it wasn't for my mom, I never would have applied and been accepted to Villanova on a full academic scholarship. She constantly pushed me and believed in my gifts.

Everyone is born with a gift; some sort of blessing, Talent or skill that if honed and cultivated, can support that person and be used in service for others. Whether that skill is wood working, mathmatics, painting, singing, or coaching-it is a gift that is God-given and can be a means of prosperity if applied correctly. Not everyone will see and acknowledge other peoples gifts. Some haven't realized their OWN gifts, so they can't be a source of support in believing in yours. I told my younger sister once, "How can you expect someone without a dream to believe and encourage you in yours?" The answer is-you can't. And it's ok. Not everyone has to believe in you for you to achieve success or realize your vision.

That's why I choose to surround myself with people who are positive, motivating, and give love, not negativity. Sometimes, that means making the choice to separate myself from certain business associates, friends, and even family members who's negative talk or crazy lifestyle is detrimental to me. As an adult, I have the power to choose who to allow in my life. So I choose positivity. I choose encouragement. I choose love.

I'm Ready For My Close-Up, Mr. Eastwood.

2011-02-22T23:51:00.000-08:00

It was a pretty spectacular feeling the day I got the call from my manager telling me I had booked J. Edgar.

"Are you sitting down, Movie Star?" John asked. "You got it! You're going to be working with Clint Eastwood."

From that point forward, it was prep time...researching, reading articles and books about J. Edgar Hoover, Martin Luther King Jr., the FBI and what the landscape of America was like in the 1960's. And of course, there was the wardrobe fitting, which I have to admit I LOVED! The girly, princess side of me loves playing dress up, especially in period costumes. The hats, the fur coats, lady like dresses and layers upon layers of under garments. Meeting with the costume designer, Deborah Hopper and her team was like stepping into Jackie O's closet.

I wasn't nervous when the day came to film. I felt almost serenely calm. As soon as I got on-set, I was whisked off to hair & make-up where they transformed me from a girl in skinny jeans, an oversized sweater and black leather boots into a sleek and pulled together 1960's civil rights activist. It was in the make-up chair that I met the actor who I'd be doing my love scene with. Yup. Love scene. Not my first. But definitely the first I've done directed by Dirty Harry.

Without giving too much away, I'll only say it was very interesting making out with a guy I'd just met that morning in front of a room full of 20 strangers and Clint Eastwood. Definitely not a normal day. But everyone on-set was very professional and wanted to make sure that I was comfortable and at ease. The cast & crew was on their A-game and it was exhilarating to work with people who were so good at what they do.

Sadly, I didn't get to meet Leo. He was shooting a scene later that afternoon that I was not in. But I'm sure we'll get a chance to do some work on the next movie we do together ;)

Untitled

2010-12-10T00:53:00.000-08:00

See the way he looks at her?
The softness in his eyes?
Love came the way it often does.
Took him by surprise.
He looked so deep inside of her
he could almost taste her soul.
A salty caress of lips & breath,
tingling out of control.
Her smile stayed with him
like a song set on replay.
He couldn't forget the moment they met
seemed like yesterday.
His world was changed, never the same
since that cold November rain.
So he took her hand and their dance began
a slow romantic sway.
Feelings were awakened that he'd never felt before.
A glance, a kiss, unbridled bliss
breaking down walls and doors.
A man who thought , true love for him would never be explored.
With fear and doubt he almost missed the love God had in store.

He's not just a doctor.....

2010-11-09T14:23:00.000-08:00

Dr. Cop - watch more funny videos

Check out this project I worked on with my buddy, Josh Covitt.

And just for the record....

2010-11-05T14:07:00.000-07:00

I may be a lady. And I may be small. But I'm not from LA, so don't think you can call - me up and threaten me and think I won't have naught to say. You're trying to waste my time, but I won't let you ruin my day.

See-I don't workout just to stay fit. And you won't find me up in the club shaking my s#*t. Cause I'm too grown for that, and I'm too old for this. But we can take it there if you insist.

Now I may be a Christian. And I may be pretty. But I'm also from Coatesville and you don't know bout my city. Just like I had to fight girls down at Ash Park, I'll pull out my vaseline now if you wanna take it that far. And like David took down the mighty Goliath, I'll fight for mine, so don't even try it. You'll be surprised by the power of this little lion, but you were forewarned, so don't go cryin.

I know - you thought your words could ruin me. Like I'd back down and give up on my dream. But God brought me this far and sorry my sad little lamb, in a few years you'll be nothing to me but a fan. And not even that, cause fans have heart, and where yours should be is just a hardened scar. It's such a shame that I'll be the only glory, in the sad book they call your life story.

Get Over the Hump

2010-11-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Lately, alot of my friends have been experiencing a torrential downpour of troubles, from financial and mental, to problems in relationships with their spouses, siblings, and parents. As a friend, I listen and empathize. If I'm asked for advice, the only thing I can offer is what I do. When I'm experiencing difficulties, I drop to my knees in prayer & meditation. I surrender my situation to God and ask Him to step into the gap. To carry me like a Father. To support me and love me in a way that even my earthly father could not. To hold me in His arms and give me the strength, patience, and understanding to endure the difficult times and bring me through. And every time, He hears my cries. He eases my heart and mind. And by doing that, He lets me know that He is in control, so I don't have to worry. And just like a Father, He dries my tears and tells me to get up and keep moving forward. and for that I am grateful.

Sometimes, it just takes a few minutes of stepping away from all the distractions-the computer, the tv, the chaos going on around us-to reconnect and re-set ourselves to the simpler and more natural tempo of life.

Shaping Up for America...and Some Cool Prizes...

2010-10-21T16:09:00.001-07:00

I think I may have officially lost it! Three weeks ago, I received a casting notice looking for women to participate in a bikini fitness competition. I like wearing bikinis. I'm an actress & dancer who lives near the beach in L.A., so I practically LIVE in my bikini. And I'm fit. So why not? Plus, as an out of work actor, I'm always looking for something to challenge me, and this seemed like a fun challenge both physically & mentally.

After submitting my photos and bio via email, I got a call saying that I had been invited to participate in the Shape Up America Figure competition in just 3 weeks! Time to get serious. So I immediately did the impossible....I removed carbs, sugar & wine from my diet. I increased my normal workout from 3 times per week to everyday. I was now doing an intense hour of cardio combined with an hour of strength training, followed by another hour of yoga or some sort of stretching or ballet-like calisthenics.

I also called my friend from back home in Pennsylvania, Cindy Hardy. Cindy is an incredible personal trainer and a figure competition veteran. I've seen the changes she's made to her body through hard work, diet changes, and pure determination. I decided if anyone could prep me from a distance, it would be Cindy.

So now, I'm just 3 1/2 days away from the show. My body hurts. I want a glass of wine. I want my brownie bites. And I want a huge bowl of pasta. I swear my sense of smell has amplified x 10 since I started this process. I definitely feel deprived, but I'm hoping it will all be worth it. Aside from my conversations & emails with Cindy, and the videos I've been watching online, I have NO idea what to expect on competition day. I'm working on my poses, learning how to walk in those clear heels, and getting ready to do my thing on Sunday afternoon. I have a feeling this will be the most interesting "role" I've played so far. Who knows, maybe I'll actually win this thing!

Practicing Gratefulness...My 30 DAY GRATITUDE INVENTORY

2010-10-05T15:31:00.000-07:00

About a year ago, my voice coach, Keith Price, suggested that I keep a daily gratitude list. He said it had done wonders for his life, his state-of-mind, and manifestation of his goals.

Now how in the world could writing down things I'm grateful for help me manifest my dreams and goals? I wasn't sure, but I agreed to try it.

In the beginning, it was tedious. I'd write down simple things like:

I'm thankful for my car that gets me to & from auditions....I'm grateful for the health & well-being of my family and myself....I'm grateful to have a roof over my head....

But as I continued my list each day, I realized it was really an exercise in the power of the mind. I came to find that focusing my mind on the positive things in my life, created a better me. After the first month, I noticed my mood had become happier and lighter. Little things that used to bother me, I could now let go. Instead of obsessing and stressing over situations and people that I couldn't control, I now had the mental power to divert my attention & focus onto more positive things. And eventually, those other situations would work themselves out WITHOUT me wasting my energy on them. It also gave me a newfound perspective that I'd only experienced after traveling abroad and seeing how other people lived.

And it was actually an episode of The Wendy Williams Show that inspired me to take my grateful list to the next level--a 30-DAY GRATITUDE INVENTORY.

Yeah. I said it. I watch Wendy Williams. How YOU doin' ?!

So, watching Wendy's show this morning, I was extremely touched by her generosity in donating school supplies to children in her hometown. Sadly, it will take many more generous people like Wendy Williams for kids to have all of the tools that they need to get their education.

With films like "Waiting for Superman" and Tony Danza's new reality series "Teach," I've become acutely aware of the state of our education system as of late. Budget cuts and lay-offs are contributing to what the US Secretary of Education calls "an education catastrophe." And the teachers that do remain are digging deep into their own pockets to supply their students with basic necessities like pens, paper, textbooks, and even eyeglasses and sometimes food. In this economic crisis, our teachers have taken on an even greater burden than usual. And the very least we can do is show our gratitude and appreciation, like Wendy did on her show.

So how did this impel me to begin a 30-day Gratitude Inventory? Well...it made me stop and think about the teachers who had made an impact on my life. The people who not only taught me about Math, Science, and English--but also pushed me, encouraged me, taught me about discipline, and were a consistent positive presence in my life.

For the next 30-days, I will be taking a Gratitude Inventory of my life. Essentially, I'll be writing down and taking stock of the people and things in my life for which I am grateful. And to take it one step further, during the first week -- I will be writing letters to the 7 people from my childhood that have made a major impact--from teachers, to girl scout leaders and athletic coaches.

I'll keep updating here on my blog to let you know where this journey takes me!

First Sight

2010-10-01T22:09:00.000-07:00

How - in this first glance - do i know that God had brought us together for reasons much bigger than just you and I...

bigger than this present moment....

bigger than the thought of your skin touching mine....

bigger even than you kissing me...

than me feeling your breath on my neck...

my hair in your face.

Because in this moment, I know....

Know that you and I are meant for something so big, I can't even fathom entirely...

Yet, somehow I can sense the greatness and it's taking my breath away.

Some might call it lust....

or love at first sight...

but I call it KNOWING....

knowing when I see something so wonderful, when i feel something so different and electrifying and unusual that I just know - in this very moment - my entire being has been forever changed.

And with a sudden inhalation and the blink of a lash, my future has been laid out before me like a gleaming path leading straight to ecstasy. And for once in my life, I am not afraid. Fear has no place here. Only anticipation.

And in time, we will be tested. But we'll remember that together, we are bigger than the games people often play....

bigger than an argument...

bigger than ego...

bigger than any storm.

We are even bigger than the thought of your lips touching my skin...

than my heart beating inside my chest...

we are bigger than just this moment.

Stardust

2010-08-26T15:42:00.000-07:00

(Dedicated to the incredible burlesque dancers I've had the pleasure of working with.)

Like stardust falling from the sky.......She is a muse, a siren, a seductress.

She is a bright light, behind mysterious eyes. Watching her move will put you into a trance. And if her gaze meets yours while she's dancing, you will feel as if her eyes have pierced your soul.

She feels just as pretty wearing a t-shirt & jeans as she does in lipstick & lace, because she knows her spirit is what truly makes her beautiful.

She would prefer you compliment her heart, or intelligence, rather than her beauty.

But beautiful she is....because her movement embodies the life and wisdom of her ancestors, the grace of a movie star, and the heart of an angel.

She is feisty. She has a voice and opinions. She is not afraid to say no.

She is a survivor. An individual. But she will melt in the arms of a man that truly loves and respects her.

When she says I Love You, you will feel as if God himself is shining down upon you.

She is kind, generous and full of life. And that is why she dances. Her intention is to share the beauty she feels on the inside with all those around her. Dancing is her way of giving God thanks.

The way she lets go and just LIVES when she is on-stage inspires everyone who watches. The sound of an audiences' applause is music to her ears.

She loves adventure, music, and travel. Because every new song she hears and every new place she goes colors her art.

She has an aura so strong, no one is left untouched. She is self-assured, dignified, and bold. Her confidence may intimidate you, until she opens her mouth and her sweet words put you at ease.

Many men will lust after her, but few will know her well enough to love her. It takes a strong man to love a woman that independent. And the one man who can love her AND allow her to fly, soon finds he's been granted a gift from the heavens. And like stardust falling from the sky....together, they will dance.

~SKM

Burlesque Mastery Workshop for Beginners hosted by The Salsa Box

2010-06-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

This weekend, The Salsa Box hosted my Burlesque Mastery Workshop for Beginners. After being assigned their "burlesque alter ego", my students learned how to use props like fans, gloves, hats, ties, boas, chairs, and even a feather duster. After only 2 hours of work on style, characterization and choreography (and a mimosa), the ladies were ready to put what they learned to the test. And boy was I impressed!

A special thanks to Lisa Feliciano -owner of The Salsa Box Studios -for all of her help and hardwork. I'm looking forward to the next workshop!

The Art of Burlesque

2010-06-19T13:38:00.001-07:00

It's so funny the reaction I get when I tell people that I teach burlesque. Some people will do a double take. Others will react with what I refer to as "saucer eyes." While some will get red, lean in close and whisper- "I've always wanted to try that."

Although people THINK Americans are very liberal, we're actually quite Puritanical and prudish in our ideas about expressing sexuality and femininity. And maybe that's why most women are intimidated the first time they come into one of my classes. But my burlesque classes give women a safe environment to be WOMEN and feel free to express their feminine side. Within a few minutes, they are feeling much more at ease and comfortable in their own skin. And I know for a fact, there is nothing sexier than a woman who is confident and exudes that energy from the inside out.

I always express to my burlesque students that the goal is not to be perfect or look just like anyone else. The idea is to be comfortable enough to express your own individuality through dance. I teach you the dance moves as "forms", and then you are free to add your own personality & pizzazz.

So what IS Burlesque??? Burlesque is a form of musical & theatrical parody that started in France during the 17th century. Most people identify classic burlesque with the big feather fans and corsets. Modern burlesque became popular in the US in the 20th century as a cabaret show with dancing, comedy, and sometimes striptease.

Today, NEO-burlesque is more a form of on-stage performance or a means to get in shape through dance, flexibility training, and agility with props like chairs, canes, gloves, boas, hats and the like. It's basically an excuse to play dress up, feel elegant and glamorous while getting your body fit at the same time.

So if you've never taken one of my burlesque classes, hopefully this info allows you to feel more at ease. My classes are fun, playful, and you'll leave feeling strong, confident and a little sassier than before =)

What is Love?

2010-05-27T18:15:00.000-07:00

During a recent trip home to Pennsylvania for a friend's wedding, I naturally had LOVE on the brain. With the majority of my high school friends already hitched, now even my L.A. friends -whom most people assume have Peter Pan syndrome - are also exchanging vows.

As I visited with my older sister and her husband who've been married for almost 8 years and have 5 children, I wonder how one makes the decision that "This is the person I will love & be with for eternity." As this internal dialogue is playing out in my mind, my brother-in-law popped in a DVD that he'd recently shared with his home church study group. It's produced by a company called Nooma that creates short videos that spark dialogue for study groups. This particular video was called "Flame," and of course-was about Love.

The basic idea behind the video is that the word Love is used very loosely. In the Hebrew language, there are at least three different words for our English word 'LOVE.'

1. Raya - 'friend,' or 'companion' - somebody you hang out with.
2. Ahava - is the love of will. More profound than fleeting romantic feelings. This is much more than temporary urges. Ahava is making a decision to join your life to the life of another. This is an emotion that leads to commitment.
3. Dod - to 'carouse,' to 'rock,' or to 'fondle.' Dod is the physical, sexual element to a relationship.

"We have our raya flame. We have our ahava flame. And, we have our dod flame. One flame burning all by itself will never be as hot as all the flames burning together. I mean, we were created for all the flames to burn as one."

-Rob Bell, Nooma "Flame"

Everyone has their own definition and understanding of Love & Marriage. But Rob Bell's theory of the three-fold flame sits well with me. Call me an optimist, a dreamer, or a girl who believes in fantasy, but I do believe that a real, true love should have all three of those elements: friendship, committment, and passion.

Shiny Dolls

2010-05-17T13:19:00.000-07:00

In a city full of shiny dolls, make believe and flashy cars.
Everyone hoping to be a star. Sniffing cocaine & eating caviar.
But most won't even go that far....

You see-pretty dolls have deeper scars.
And when beauty fades, they take it hard.
No one to love. No happiness. Just a fleeting taste of success.
Hiding their identity, behind smoke & mirrors & misery.

The joy in life gone long ago. No purpose. No legacy to bestow.
Living in a fairytale land. Unaware of the sinking sand.
No connection to reality. Sometimes ignorance is normality.

Til an earthquake comes to shake the ground
Blind and deaf, they hear no sound.
But feel they will, and feel they do
As the world outside comes crashing through.

The shiny dolls are forced to see
There's a world beyond their shaded tree.
And by opening their eyes, maybe they could be
a branch of life feeding anothers leaf.

© SKM

Monday Morning Inspiration

2010-05-16T23:24:00.000-07:00

One of the first stage productions I ever performed in in Los Angeles was "The Night of the Black Cat" at Edgemar Center for the Arts in Santa Monica. http://www.edgemarcenter.org/

The role I played was small, mostly dancing in the chorus. But it provided me the opportunity to work with & learn from some incredible artists, like Toledo Diamond and Toddius Maximus, just to name a few.

I remember right before I auditioned for the show, I had gotten into an accident and totalled my car just one month after paying it off. I used my entire insurance check to purchase a used Jetta VW, and then THAT car completely broke down on me. It was like one bad thing after another was happening, and all I wanted to know was WHY ME?! My Jetta needed a new transmission, a new computer system-basically a new EVERYTHING-and I didn't have the money to fix it. And in L.A., when you don't have a car it's almost impossible to get around. The cost of taking a taxi is outrageous, and there's no uniform system of buses or trains that can get you around in less than 3 hours. So my friend & roommate, Kiki would let me borrow her car to get back & forth to rehearsals for "Black Cat". If it wasn't for her support, and that of my other roomie, LeAnna-I would have never even auditioned for the show. But they encouraged me, and told me they believed I would do well. And they were right-cause I got a part!

But working on a show with such high caliber Talent can be intimidating, especially for a young dancer who's relatively new to L.A. I showed up at rehearsals, not exactly sure how or where I fit into the cast. But as they say, half the battle is just showing up. So I tried to forget I didn't have a car of my own, and focused on working my butt off to learn the choreography, and writing my monologue in the voice of my gypsy character "Veena". I remember during rehearsals, feeling overwhelmed and insecure, like I wanted to fade into the background. I guess the director, Deborah LaVine, recognized that and she told me something that has stayed with me since then. She said, "Shannon, don't be afraid to stand out and be noticed. It's okay to shine."

And with that simple statement, it was as if she had given me permission to fully live in the moment on stage and perform to the best of my ability.

A year later, I came across this quote by Nelson Mandela that reminded me of Deborah's encouraging words to me. And I truly believe Deborah's advice and Mandela's quote applies to EVERYONE-not just performers. No matter what you do, don't be afraid to SHINE!

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God; your playing small doesn't serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.
- Nelson Mandela

Mixed Like Me, Shannon McClain

2010-05-02T08:25:00.000-07:00

Blissfully ignorant. That's what I was those first 8 years of my life. My "mixedness" was a given. I didn't question it because it was all I knew, therefore normal. My mom is a beautiful shade of cocoa brown. My dad-very fair and freckled and Irish. I was somewhere in between. Cafe au lait and slightly freckled. Not exactly the color of my older sister, nor my younger sister. We were all a little different, but still the same because we were a family.

It was other people outside of my own family that pointed out my differences. "Why does your hair do that?" my white friends would ask me after swimming in the summertime. "Why are you so light?" my black friends would say when we were double dutching on the playground. I learned to answer their questions quickly and try to change the subject. I didn't like how it felt when everyone standing within earshot would stare at me, waiting for me to explain this mixture of DNA that was Shannon McClain. Sometimes I'd get annoyed, and say "I'm purple. What are you?" And walk away.

I felt different, but every kid does at some point. I really think it made me more empathetic to other kids who were outsiders. I could tell when they were hurting because they felt left out or picked on. And I would do my best to include them. Growing up mixed also made me curious about other people who were different.

There were very few Asian kids in my small town. Not alot of Latinos either. I was intrigued by the few people I met who were from other countries. I wanted to hear stories about where they came from. I was interested in what kinds of foods they ate. And I wanted to learn how to speak their language. Being around them made me feel more connected to the world outside of the two bridges that enclosed the 8 miles or so of Coatesville, Pennsylvania.

I met Raj-or Bong as we called him in middle school-in 6th grade homeroom. He was new. A thin Filipino boy who didn't speak English very well. The kids in class would tease him, but for some reason, I felt he was a kindred spirit. So I would stick up for him against our classmates. He lived a few blocks away and we'd rollerblade together after school with his younger brother and my younger sister. He now lives in London and is still one of my best friends to this day.

Then there was Lily. She was Chinese and an artist. She could draw like nobody's business. Her hair was cut in a shaggy, pixy-like do at a time when every girl wanted to look like all the other girls at school. But Lily was so unapologetic about being different, being herself. She introduced me to rock 'n roll. She was obsessed with Queen and whenever I hear Bohemian Rhapsody, I think of her.

Phaimany was a lovely girl from Thailand that I met in 7th grade. Like me, she was a latch-key kid and also the daughter of a single mom. I remember hanging out at her apartment, eating Thai food and listening to stories about her country.

Not to say that I didn't have black & white friends who impacted me growing up, because I certainly did. But my friends from other countries shared with me a perspective and experience that was special and beautifully different. It opened my eyes to the fact that there was this fantastic world outside of Coatesville. It also wet my appetite for the travel I would later do in life.

When I finally left my hometown to attend college in Philadelphia, I realized that the larger world was more accepting of my own differences and individuality. I also learned that each person I met would see me in a different way. Some of my white girlfriends at college would look at me and say, "I want to have a mixed baby like you, but with green eyes." As if having a mixed child was some kooky scientific experiment. The Domincan and Puerto Rican girls who went to Villanova automatically thought I was one of them and would ramble away in Spanish. The Asian kids thought I was Hapa-part Phillipino or Hawaiian or even Japanese. I tried to explain to them I was the product of a black mother and white father and they'd shake their heads.

"But your eyes look Asian," they'd say.

"Well, my mom is part Native-American too. Maybe that's it," I'd reason. Or maybe it was the fact that I was an actor. I'd spent my entire life studying people of different races and nationalities. In fact, the better part of my childhood was spent transforming myself into other people-characters in plays from other time periods. I was, and still am, a chameleon of sorts.

Thinking that my mixedness would certainly be an asset in Hollywood, I moved to Los Angeles after college and came face to face with a stark reality. There are very few roles for mixed girls in Hollywood. Actually, there are very few roles for anyone not white in Hollywood. At least not major roles. Sure I've played bit parts...I've been an Arabic woman twice. Three times I've been a Latina. Once I was a "Blackanese" in a short film. And sometimes, my race was not mentioned in the indie projects I acted in. But if there's one thing I've learned, it's that you don't wait around for someone to create a box for you to check. In other words, I've had to create my own box. Essentially, the lack of opportunity was the catalyst for the start of my other career as a Producer.

I think it's silly that Hollywood has not yet become comfortable with portraying a mixed-race family. Our president is mixed. But I have never turned on the tv to watch a sitcom about a family with one black parent and one white parent....or even one Hispanic parent and one Jewish parent-which is actually quite common in L.A. Although we're not represented, we mixed kids are a real part of the fabric of American culture. It's a different experience growing up in a household where you are exposed to two diverse cultures. You learn to view the world in a different way. And it is this difference that I'd like to see represented more on tv and in films.

I am so proud to be mixed. I am also proud to call myself a black woman because my mother has instilled that pride in me. She has always taught me how good I have it. That things have not always been the way they are now. That black people have worked so hard, and struggled for so long for me and my generation to be afforded the opportunities that we have now, so I better make the most out of it.

I also remember my dad telling me stories about his family coming to America from Ireland during the potato famine. And I remember my Grandma Libby telling me how my great grandmother was a Pee Dee Indian-a member of a Native American tribe in South Carolina. I think it is an asset to be able to look at my family and see a rainbow of diversity-beautiful shades of white, red, yellow, brown, and black. So, in the end, being different- mixed like me, Shannon McClain, is not bad at all. It's actually pretty darn cool.

Memory of a Moment

2010-05-01T22:44:00.000-07:00

There was a chill in the air. The kind of breeze that sends a shiver up your spine and makes you zip your jacket up a little higher. It was the first sign of winter. And the first snowfall would soon follow. There would be no more recess time outside. Instead, all of Mrs. Mobley's second grade class would be inside of the cafeteria for the entire 40 minute lunch period. The small steel town residents of Coatesville would soon be shoveling their cars out in the dark morning hours. Saving their parking spots with buckets, old lawn chairs, or flourescent cones.

But this particular October morning, a little girl stood alone outside of Benner Elementary. She was still considered the new kid at school. She knew the other children in her class, but they already had their best friends, their groups. She was just the girl who had transferred from the private Christian school down the street. Her clothes weren't particularly nice. In fact, they were kind of old. Hand-me-downs from her big sister who had just started the 8th grade at a nearby middle school.

The little girl was excited about starting public school. No more wearing long skirts and thick, itchy stockings as was customary at Grace Baptist Christian School. No more reading Bible stories out loud in front her class. Now, she was at public school! She could wear jeans-everyday if she wanted. There were so many more students at this school too. In her old class, their were only 9 kids. In Mrs. Mobley's class, there were 27 boys and girls. More kids to play with in gym class. More friends to hang out with at recess. What could be better?

Within the first month at Benner Elementary, the little girl was pulled out of class by the guidance counselor. It made the little girl nervous. She didn't like being singled out like that. She already stood out from her other classmates because she was new. And she didn't look like the rest of them either-with her kinky, curly hair, pale skin and glasses. She anxiously sat down in the counselor's office, and peered at the woman over the top of her pink frames.

"Am I in trouble?" the little girl asked.

The counselor smiled. "No, you're not in trouble, Dear. Actually, Mrs. Mobley tells me that you've been doing very well in class. She says you're always the first to finish your work. You turn in your homework and all the answers are right. And you read well beyond a second grade level. Are you ever bored in class?"

"Sometimes," the little girl answered. "But when I finish too fast, I just read a book I brought from home. Mrs. Mobley told me it was okay, though. I don't bother anybody else."

"What are some of your favorite books?"

"Well, I like Little House on the Prairie books. My mom bought me the whole set last Christmas. I like the Babysitter's Club and the Saddle Club. Those are my favorites."

"I think that's excellent. Mrs. Mobley thinks that you would be perfect for a special program we have here at Benner. It's called S.A.G.E. Student Acquired Gifted Education. You'll have to take some tests with me first before we can put you into this program. Would you be okay with taking some tests?"

"Yes ma'am. But what would happen after that?" the little girl asked.

"Well, if you do very well on the tests, you'll get to leave class twice a week and go to a special class with the other Gifted students."

The little girl squinted skeptically at the counselor. "Will my mom have to pay extra for this? Because I'm on reduced lunch and I don't think she has the money for that."

"No, sweetie. You're mom won't have to pay anything. You'll have Gifted class in the Library and you'll get to learn languages, and play something we call The Student Stock Market Challenge. There will be some extra work involved, but I really think it'll be fun for you."

The little girl suddenly felt reassured and excited. "Okay! I'll do it."

"That's what I like to hear. I'm going to send this letter home with you to give to your mom to sign. You tell her if she has any questions, she can give me a call here at the school. And I want you to keep up the good work in Mrs. Mobley's class, alright?"

"Yes ma'am."

Over the next month, the little girl went through a series of tests with different counselors. She had to put together puzzles while they timed her. They showed her pictures of people and places from all over the world and asked her to identify them. She did math problems, and word scrambles, and even foreign language tests. She did remarkably well on the exams. She remembered the surprised expressions of the counselors when she knew things they didn't expect her to know-like when she identified a picture of Einstein and The Great Wall of China, and music by Mozart. Three other children in her class were tested, but she was the only one who got the letter saying she had been accepted into S.A.G.E.

And on this particular October morning, the little girl was set to start her first Gifted class and she was very happy. As the school doors opened, the little girl hiked her hand-me-down backpack up more securely on her tiny shoulders. One of her classmates, a pretty blonde haired girl named Joy, walked up next to her.

"Are you starting S.A.G.E today?" Joy asked.

The little girl wasn't sure what she should say. She knew Joy had been tested too. But after the first few days, the counselors stopped calling her out of class for the exams.

"Yes, I am. After lunch," the little girl said.

"Well my mommy told me that the only reason you made it in and I didn't is because you're black and they need to put black people in it."

The little girl felt a huge lump form in the back of her throat. Her stomach suddenly felt sick, and she didn't know why. Plus, she was confused. When she looked down at her arm, she didn't see brown skin like her mothers. And she didn't see the very fair skin of her father. She considered herself tan, not black or white. But inside of her she knew that Joy and Joy's mommy thought she was black. And to them, a black girl could not get into S.A.G.E. by excelling at the tests. The little girl KNEW that she had done well on the tests. In fact, they were all easy and fun for her. And the little girl also knew from that moment forward, she would have to prove herself to people like Joy and Joy's mommy. People who don't believe that a little girl with kinky hair and light skin who wears hand-me-down clothes could ever possibly be smart enough to get into the Gifted program.

That little girl was me. And that moment in October standing outside of Benner Elementary School changed the course of my life forever. In that moment, I got a very real lesson about race and identity. At the time it really hurt me. But now I'm grateful for that moment. Because it is the memory of that moment that has driven me to prove people wrong everyday of my life. It is what drove me through long, late nights of studying for exams in college when I was exhausted after waiting tables. It is what drove me to follow my dream and move to Los Angeles after I graduated. It is what drove me to endure painful remarks from my boyfriend's family because I was not white enough for their son. It is what drives me when I step into every audition and onto every set. It is what drives me to write this blog. Because that October morning, I knew that I WAS good enough. And I still am.

~SKM

FACEBOOK INTERVENTION

2010-05-01T08:10:00.000-07:00

Everyone has their opinions about what Facebook should and should not be used for. Some feel it's a resource to stay connected with friends and family. Others use it as a marketing tool. While some use it as a public forum to voice their opinions. Whatever it's individual purpose, Facebook can cause some folks to get into serious trouble, embarrass others, and ruin friendships. So I've decided to share (on my blog, NOT on Facebook), a few grievances based on personal experiences and experiences my friends have had. Let's call it a Facebook Intervention.

#1) Don't become the paparazzi! If when you're taking a photo of someone, they say, "I don't want to see this on Facebook." Do not, and I repeat, DO NOT upload the photo to Facebook. You are sure to lose friends this way. In addition, don't tag your friends in embarrassing photos. This includes pictures of them making strange faces, falling, or with inappropriate "paraphernalia" in the shot.

#2) If you decide to end your relationship, let your ex-significant other know before changing your status on Facebook. It's really insensitive. As Kimmy Gibbler would say, "HOW RUDE!"

#3) If someone's status says they are in a relationship, don't proposition them for a date. It's desperate. And desperation does not equal sexy, nor does it equal you getting a date--EVER. Also, if we are not dating, don't send me sexual Facebook messages. I'm not interested. At all!

#4) Do not make statements on someone's page or wall that you don't want their mother to hear or see. She very well may be on Facebook. Which means she'll see, or will probably find out in 2.2 seconds when another family member tells her.

#5) Don't tag people in photos or notes that have nothing to do with them. It's annoying.

#6) If a friend shares confidential information with you, don't make the big announcement for them on Facebook. If you're unsure whether or not the information is confidential, err on the side of good judgement and don't make the announcement for them on Facebook!

#7) Don't share everything. I don't need to hear how you popped your p*@#y at the club with your friends last night. I don't need to hear about your baby's bowel movement. And I definitely don't need to hear how depressed you are in a cryptic status update. If it's that bad, call someone immediately.

#8) Do not create a fake Facebook page to catch your boyfriend/girlfriend cheating. If it's bad enough for you to pretend to be someone else, they probably are cheating. Or you're crazy. Either way-you need to end it.

#9) If you met one of my friends at my birthday party and you're interested in them, it's better to ask me for the okay first BEFORE stalking my friend on Facebook, getting their phone number or email off of their profile and leaving them a message saying, "Remember me? I met you at Shannon's birthday party." It's borderline stalker behavior. And embarassing for you if they don't remember you.

#10) If someone "de-friends" you, it is NOT okay to send them a message harrassing them and asking them why. If you don't know there phone number-they're probably not a real friend so the reason they de-friended you doesn't matter. Let it go!

****This post was not intended to be a personal attack against any one individual, just a helpful reminder for those of you out there who may have forgotten that Facebook affects your relationships. Consider yourself INTERVENED!

Get it Tight, Get it Right Summer Fitness Plan- OVERVIEW

2010-04-30T13:28:00.000-07:00

After a bit of a hiatus from blogging, I am back! The weather is warming up. The days are longer. And now is the time to start enjoying the outdoors and shedding that winter weight. It's only May-so you've still got time to get healthier and feel more fit by vacation time.

I recently got a phone call from Celebrity Stylist, BE! Magazine Style Editor and my good friend, Christopher Mannor who was my inspiration for this fitness blog. Last week, Chris asked me to be a contributor for the next issue of BE! Magazine. The assignment he gave me was to write an article about staying in shape through dance. After completing my article (which will be on news stands in a few weeks), I realized I had lots more fitness tips to share. So here they are:

Tip Number 1: If you want to lose weight and see results quickly, you've got to combine cardio with some sort of weight bearing activity. Weight bearing can mean lifting free weights, using machines, or even your own body weight to fatigue one group of muscles. Normally, people will work out their back & biceps on one day, they're legs (quads & hamstrings) another day, and chest & triceps on the following weight training day. And it goes without saying that healthy eating plays a large role as well. Everyone's body type and metabolism is different. So finding the balance that works for you can take time. If you lead an extremely active lifestyle, you can eat more calories. But if you sit behind a desk most of the day, you're not expending as much energy, so your body needs fewer calories and food to maintain itself. You can consult with your doctor or a nutritionist for a diet plan that suits you specifically. Or try a website like http://www.foodfit.com/.

Tip Number 2: Choose a cardio activity that you actually enjoy!

Don't believe the hype that you HAVE to run on the treadmill to lose weight. If you hate running, then don't do it. Find another activity or sport that you have fun doing. This is the only way you're going to stick with your fitness plan for the long haul. Living in Southern California, I'm lucky enough to have beautiful weather about 300 days out of the year. So I like to mix up my cardio with outdoor activities as opposed to sweating it out in the gym everyday. I'll work out in the gym if it's raining. If the weather is nice, I'll hike Runyon Canyon, run (or walk) the stairs in Culver City or Santa Monica, go for a run around my neighborhood, or a long walk in the sand on Venice Beach with a friend. Other cardio activities I enjoy are doing freestyle boxing on the punching bag in my backyard, playing tennis, rollerblading, jumping rope, and of course-DANCING! There are so many types of sports you can play that qualify as cardiovascular: soccer, basketball, beach volleyball, bicycling, skiing, snowboarding, etc. Choose one, or all of them, that you enjoy most.

Tip #3: If you don't live in a warm weather region, and you have to workout at the gym, I recommend cross-training on different cardio machines. Here's a sample gym cross training cardio plan:

TREADMILL

walk 5 mins on the treadmill with no incline to warm up your muscles
walk 5 mins on the treadmill at 3% incline
walk 5 mins on the treadmill at 6% incline

(Total =15 minutes on the treadmill)

Spend a 3-5 minutes gently stretching your legs then, proceed to the next phase of cross-training.

ELLIPTICAL OR STAIRMASTER

15 minutes on the elliptical machine or the stairmaster at a 50% resistance level

Immediately proceed to the final phase of cross-training.

ROWING MACHINE OR BIKE

15 minutes on the rowing machine or stationary bike at a 50% resistance level

TOTAL = 45 minutes of cardio

Tip #4: If you have an injury, bad knees, or you are too heavy to put very much pressure on your joints, try some of my other favorite workout activities:

SWIMMING-> You can spend just 30 minutes doing laps, splashing around, or even playing Marco Polo in the pool will burn calories and tighten you up without putting undue stress on your body. Try contacting your local YMCA or gym and ask about water aerobics classes. You will be surprised how quickly you'll notice changes in your shape and the added amount of energy you'll have.

YOGA-> I practice yoga almost everyday! I'll do a few poses first thing in the morning, and at night before I go to bed. At the end of a long, stressful 10-14 hour day on-set or in the office, I'm often anxious, and my brain is running too quickly for me to relax and fall to sleep right away. So I'll do yoga for 10-15 minutes to relax my body & mind, and ground myself. The deep breathing & slow movements that are needed in yoga are a great exercise to counteract stress. It's also a great way to stretch the body and make your muscles longer & leaner. If you opt for a yoga class, remember that there are different types. If you're just starting out, I suggest one of the following:

HATHA is a general term for a yoga class. Most often, this will be a slow-paced and gentle form that introduces basic yoga poses.

IYENGAR style of yoga is most concerned with body alignment. This is one of the best styles for beginners because you'll learn how to precisely perform each yoga pose to obtain maximum benefits and avoid injury.

KUNDALINI style focuses on the breath in conjunction with physical movement. The idea of Kundalini is to free energy in the lower body and allow it to flow upwards. It's all about controlling your breathing and exploring the effects of the breath on your mind & body.

I hope this provided some inspiration for YOU to get outside and start getting fit for the Summer. Stay tuned for more fitness & eating tips that will get you closer to your summer body.

Peace & Blessings,

SKM

Just Because i Do

2010-02-12T17:07:00.000-08:00

Our chemistry makes fire. Each time we meet the heat gets higher.

A recipe for desire-But we pretend we're in control.

I can feel your hesitation, so I pray to God for patience.

You are my motivation-in this city built on dreams.

My friends look at me and wonder, who's the man that put me under,

This gentle, warm Love cover- that's wrapped around my being.

I tell them it's a sickness. Bring me a priest and a witness.

'Cause the only prescription- is for you to marry me.

I know this all sounds crazy. But the only way to free me

From this bloody insanity- is for me to be with you.

And as the curtain lowers, I discover you're my friend & my Lover.

Two players played each other-as if they didn't see.

That the magic they'd created, was real and somehow fated.

Not just a carnal craving-but two souls locked in Harmony.

The solution seems clear, so I let go of all my fears.

As I say these words to you-i love you Just Because i Do.

©SKM

Inside the 2010 Grammys

2010-02-01T18:55:00.001-08:00

The Grammys are by far one of my favorite events to attend. And that's because it's all about 2 of my favorite things...over-the-top fashion and music. And last night proved to be quite a memorable Grammy experience.

This was my 3rd year working the red carpet, this time for E! Entertainment. It was my job to produce a make over segment where 3 teams of celebrity stylists transformed normal women into Grammy nominated performers Rihanna, Katy Perry, and Lady Gaga. And boy were these ladies surprised! I have to admit I told a tiny white lie to get them there. Razieh, Shauna, and Casey all thought they were coming to the red carpet show to be audience members and witness the crazy behind-the-scenes of E!'s red carpet coverage. Little did they know, my amazing team of wardrobe, make-up artists, and hair stylists had been plotting & planning their transformations for a week.

After waking up at 6am and getting myself red carpet ready, I rushed to the Staples Center to meet my makeover victims and make sure they were kept in an area where our secret wouldn't be blown. After planting the girls in the bleachers and walking through everything with the camera crew, it was time to have Jay Manuel give them the news. Lucky for me, all of them were game and after a few hours of weaving, cutting, face-painting, and wardrobe fittings--we escorted our very own Rihanna, Katy, and Gaga to the red carpet to see their new look for the first time in front of millions of people.

Our Lady Gaga, especially, was a red carpet sensation and fooled everyone who saw her including the screaming Gaga fans.

Between a killer make-over segment and getting to see some of my favorite artists on the red carpet, I'd have to say the day was a success. The entire E! Live Events team capped it off with drinks at The Yard House to toast a Grammy show well-done.

Golden Globes Recap

2010-01-20T15:21:00.000-08:00

It was a whirlwind weekend of Golden Globe hysteria. Back to producing for E! Entertainment's Live Events department for the Live Countdown to the Red Carpet show. After weeks of preparation--burlesque field shoots, model castings, marketing meetings, and research--I survived, but just barely.

Most people don't realize how much work goes on behind the scenes leading up to these awards shows, but there's ALOT! TV Networks and Press from all over the world fly in for this time of year, so L.A. is even busier than normal. The Beverly Hilton Hotel was on LOCK DOWN! You couldn't get near the place unless you had the proper credentials and IDs, and even then, you may get stopped and questioned by a burly off-duty LAPD officer moonlighting as event security.

It was a hectic day, that started off sunny, but ended in very un-LA like weather. By 3pm, I was running around in the rain wearing a black dress with wet feet, but still smiling. And lucky for me, all of my models, stylists, and experts showed up ready to make red carpet magic happen. Thankfully, my segments went off with only a few minor speed bumps.

The coolest part for me as a movie buff was saying hello to Martin Scorcese as he walked by me in the one-on-one room. Everything inside me wanted to scream "PUT ME IN YOUR NEXT MOVIE!" But I kept it together and mustered a simple, "Congratulations, Mr. Scorcese." Meeting Sandra Bullock at E!'s After Party show was also pretty cool. As was seeing the entire cast of "The Hangover," including Mike Tyson (who looked at me like I was a steaming pork chop), and that hunk-of-malunka cheese, Bradley Cooper.

A fantastic show and now it's full steam ahead to the Grammys.

2009-A Year in Review

2009-12-31T12:24:00.000-08:00

I was all over the place this year! Literally and figuratively. So here's a brief recap of random facts, stats, and stories in word & photo of the good, the bad, and the ugly of 2009.

January-It's January 15th and I'm editing a segment at work at GoTV. I open up Yahoo to do a search and I see the headline: US Airways plane makes an emergency landing in New York's Hudson River. Thankfully, all the passengers and crew escaped safely and the pilot is deemed a hero.

History was made on January 20th when our first African-American President was sworn into office on the steps of the US Capitol Building. I decided this was an historical event I wanted to see AND document. So I flew from L.A. to Philadelphia to pick up my sister, Airin. We hired a camera crew and road-tripped to Washington D.C. to witness it all first hand. What an incredible experience! There was an undeniable energy buzzing through the city that I'd never felt anywhere else. I interviewed people from all over the world and from all walks of life. Some people said they felt anxious. Others were overjoyed. Many were close to tears. But all of them shared one thing - a sense of hope. No one man can change the world. But he can be a catalyst to change the way people think, and that's pretty incredible.

While in Philly, I go to my college friend, Kelly's wedding. She looks so happy to be surrounded by everyone who loves her, especially her new hubby. I'm happy because I get to catch up with my Villanova U. friends, reminiscing about our days at Erin's Pub, Garrett Hill, and the Black Cultural Society Parties.

On another note, Nadya Suleman gives birth to 8 children at once! Talk about incredible...incredibly CRAZY.

I decide that I'm sick of being JUST a dramatic actress and it's time to try my hand at comedy. So I start taking classes with Lisa Sundstedt's "Pretty Funny Women." I'm shocked and appalled when she expects us to ACTUALLY be funny the first class.

February-I'm lucky enough to report from the Oscar Nominee Luncheon at the Beverly Hilton Hotel for GoTV. I'm in a small room with a bunch of other reporters from all over the world asking questions of nominees like Viola Davis, Penelope Cruz, Taraji Henson, Frank Langella, and Kate Winslet. Afterwards, I step outside on the balcony for some fresh air and run into Robert Downey Jr. and Sean Penn having a cigarette. I casually say hello to both of them, and try not to pass out. Slumdog Millionaire ends up sweeping the Oscars. Things are changing....

I shed a tear for my Eagles as one of our rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers wins the Super Bowl.

All month long, Verizon and GoTv give me the chance to celebrate Black History Month by interviewing some Grammy nominees & past winners. I sit down for over an hour with Tito and Jermaine Jackson at the MoTown Universal offices in Santa Monica discussing the Jackson 5's rise to stardom, Obama taking office, and their upcoming reality show on A&E. After that, it's sit downs with Otis Redding, Duke Fakir, Jazmin Sullivan, Asher Roth, and Jamey Johnson.

Obama signs a $787 Billion stimulus package to avert an economic crash.

I'm reporting from the Verizon Blackberry Storm pre-Grammy party when Rihanna & Chris Brown walk the red carpet. I think how this beautiful, elegant looking young woman seems such a mis-match to her date. Apparently they are. Two days later, I'm on the red carpet at the Grammy Awards for GoTV when I hear whispers of domestic violence between the two singers. Really disappointing. But while I'm there, I end up scoring interviews with Quincy Jones, Akon, Jason Mraz, and Anthony Hamilton.

After 8 weeks of classes and telling jokes at open mic nights in Hollywood and The Valley, I finally do stand-up in front of an audience. I tell jokes about my childhood as light-skinned house slave and stalking celebrities on the red carpet. I get laughs and a few blank stairs, but I survive to make a fool of myself one more day.

March-Business executive, Bernie Madoff pleads guilty to milking investors to the tune of $65 BILLION in a ponzi scheme. So what happened to all that money anyway?

April-Apparently the economic stimulus hasn't trickled down to the wireless industry because I'm laid off from my job with GoTV. But I'm now again free to focus fully on acting & dancing.

Somali pirates hold a cargo ship captain hostage for 5 days on a covered lifeboat. US Navy snipers kill 3 of the 4 pirates and bring the 4th to the US to stand trial.

I interview Raphael Saadiq for a Rolling Stones/Heineken advertisement. I'm inspired by his creativity and his stay-with-it-ness. The man has been in the music industry for almost 30 years! Amazing.

May- The H1N1 flu (swine flu) is rapidly spreading across the globe. I ain't scared of no pig, so I jump on a plane to go spend 3 glorious weeks in Europe visiting with Raj in London, going to the Cannes Film Festival, getting caught on a runaway train w/ Reena, being propositioned by French taxi drivers, visiting Paris w/ my mom & sisters, and basking in the sun on the Mediterranean.

June-On June 4th, President Obama addresses the muslim world from the University of Cairo in Egypt.

Protesters fill the streets of Iran after disputes over the win of Mahmoud Ahmadinejad over Mir-Hossein Mousavi. Pictures of violence by Iranian police are flashed across tv and computers all over the world.

In Los Angeles, The King of Pop, Michael Jackson dies leaving the entire world mourning the loss of a musical icon. A few days later, I attend Puff Daddy's BET Awards pre-party thanks to my friend Al Bayan's connections. I end up having a dance off with Diddy and Lil Mama as the DJ spins Michael. Oh, Hollywood....I gotta love ya!

I do my first radio interview ever with Sam & Jasmine on LA Talk Radio. Somehow, the conversation turns from movies and burlesque dancing to sex and relationships. Someone get me out of here!

July-A comedy short I acted in called "Politicians Gone Wild" ends up on Funnyordie.com. YAY!

My younger sister Airin comes to visit me for Independance Day in L.A. Feels so good to be with family.

Acting work is sparse, so I spend most of the month writing on the beach in Venice. This may be the best Summer of my life.

August-I shoot an episode of Criminal Minds where I play....drumroll please......a dead body. I go through hours of prosthetics and make-up to lie motionless on a hard stage floor for 8 hours while Shemar Moore delivers dialogue standing over me. I think this may be my big break.....

4th time's a charm! I am a bridesmaid in my friend, Candace's wedding back home in Pennsylvania. I'm now officially a professional bridesmaid. I may be the last broad standing....hmmm-sounds like a movie title.....While I'm there, I catch up with my high school Cheerleading squad and my coaches. I realize they were my age when they were coaching me. Boy time flies!

Two Current TV Reporters are released from North Korea after being arrested for illegally entering the country on the Chinese border.

Ted Kennedy dies and Americans mourn his passing.

Jaycee Dugard is found alive with her 2 children 18 years after being kidnapped by Phillip Garrido.

September-Kanye West pulls a.....well, a Kanye West by trying to steal Taylor Swift's shine at the MTV Awards.

October-President Obama wins the Nobel Peace Prize.

I accept a role in the Actor's Collective play "Cuba and His Teddy Bear" by Reinaldo Povod. My days are spent doing what I truly love doing. Acting, dancing, and creating with some really talented people. This is how life should be.

The nation holds its breath as a runaway weather balloon flies above Ft. Collins, Colorado holding a little boy....SIKE....it's just the premise for a cool new reality show starring a Dick that goes by the name of Heene.

My friend Kemaiye and I dance with thousands of other Michael Jackson fans to MJ's "Thriller" in downtown L.A.'s Nokia Center in the world's largest flash mob.

November-Life is simple. I wake up. I workout or take a yoga class. I go to play rehearsal. I come home. I eat. I write. I watch a movie. I go to bed & do it again the next day. Simplicity is good.

The massacre by US Army Major Nidal Malike Hasan at Ft. Hood leaves people asking WHY.

Tiger Woods crashes his Escalade. His wife Elin bashes his head....ALLEGEDLY ;-)

Twilight mania strikes again with New Moon, the next chapter of the vampire saga.

December-"Cuba and His Teddy Bear" premieres at the Underground Theater in Hollywood. It's been a memorable experience, and I've learned a tremendous amount from my castmates and the crew. Can't wait to do it again.

I finally buy my first guitar. My finger nails are too long to actually play it properly, but I've got my new acoustic guitar! Yee-haw!!! Now all I need are some lessons....

On December 16th, my big sis, Angela gives birth to my first niece, Mia. Why does EVERYTHING feel differently today? I guess that's what happens when a new baby girl is born into the family.

The Christmas Day bomber bombs himself.

I go back to work as a Segment Producer for E! Entertainment's Live Events season. Next stop....The Golden Globes.

Joe Wilson Embarrasses Congress

2009-09-10T09:00:00.000-07:00

As soon as I woke up this morning, I found the internet on fire with comments regarding Rep. Joe Wilson's outburst during Pres. Obama's health care speech. Wilson's shouting out "You lie" at our president during a nationally televised speech was appalling. If Joe Wilson has a problem with the Presiden't plan, that's fine--I'm all in favor of freedom of speech. But there is an appropriate time & place to voice his opinions, and during Pres. Obama speech was not it! Grow up & show a little respect & decorum for your president and for Americans. This is Congress, not the playground.

It seems AOL's blog was skewed in favor of Republicans and I have to disagree with many of the comments. People said "most of the Congressmen disagreed with Obama". Were we watching the same speech??? From the looks of it, the old, white Republican Congressman disagreed with Obama. But it's because of that group of men that our country is in the state that it is now. Sorry fellas-it's time for a change! So suck it up and accept that you're not in control anymore. Pres. Obama is trying his best to reform a system that has been flawed for YEARS. Obviously the current system is not working, and something has to be done NOW! Millions of Americans are without healthcare, or they are dying because they are dropped by their healthcare providers the minute a major illness hits. The only winners in this situation are the healthcare companies. It's an ugly business that has to be changed NOW. I guess the Republican Congressmen don't care, since they and their families are protected from worries like these. Well, what ever happened to empathy and caring for the less fortunate? It saddens me to see Americans only being concerned about themselves. We saw it with the banks, the car companies, and now with healthcare. But I pray that with enough people standing up and saying NO MORE, we will see change.

One of My Favorites.....

2009-08-05T02:00:00.001-07:00

Thought I'd share one of my favorite poems. I wrote this one about 4 years ago.

MY ONLY CONSTANT

Time ticking by
Incessantly...Rhythmically
The beating of a heart
The tapping of the rain
I mark the passage in 3/4 time.
Always the same,
but constantly changing
No expectations, No disappointments
No love, No pain
No loss, No gain.
Guarding against the inevitable
The clock strikes 8, but it's all the same.
Time's up
But it moves on
Waits for no one
No thing
The floodgates open to Salty emotion
Released in a stream of incomprehension.
It passes and is carried on by the wave of time that
Waits for no one
No thing
But ticks away....
Reliably,
Rythmically...incessantly.
Time is my only constant

2009-08-05T00:46:00.000-07:00

I can't believe it's been over a month since my last post. I've been hella busy with photo shoots, writing for Examiner.com (I'm their new L.A. Entertainment reporter!) and doing some songwriting.

Most people who know me are probably wondering, "Since when does Shannon write songs?!" Well, since I was 11 years old, I've kept a journal. And in those journals, I've written MASSIVE amounts of poetry, as well as creative ideas, and just plain old details about what was going on in my life at that particular moment.

And now that my little songbird, sister Airin is making the move out to L.A., I thought what better time to turn some of these poems into actual songs. Plus, I've always secretly wanted to record songs myself. And what better time than the present! So I've decided to use my blog to share some of the songs I've been working on lately. Within the next few weeks, I'll post some of my favorite lyrics and please feel free to let me know what you think.

Here it goes.....

LOVE DRUNK

don't tease me like this
you know i need your tender touch
don't hold out and dismiss
me when I want you so very much.

chorus:
When you're near I feel the blood coursing through my veins,
high when you're here. down when you're gone. a glutton for the pain.

this is not a silly crush
so please don't make me wait
you glance at me- I start to blush
we can't deny it's fate

chorus:
When you're near I feel the blood coursing through my veins,
high when you're here. down when you're gone. a glutton for the pain.

bridge:
It's a spell you've cast over me
Love drunk is what you've made of me
I want your hands upon me
So go ahead and touch me,
You're driving me insane.

COPYRIGHT: SKM

BET Awards Weekend

2009-06-28T21:00:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning, I received an unexpected call from Al, a good friend & fellow thespian, inviting me to P. Diddy's BET Awards pre-party. I've been keeping things on the low since I got back from Europe, so I figured why not. I was still feeling down about Michael Jackson, and a BET party would be a great way to celebrate his life with other people who loved him like I did.

So at 10:30pm, Al and I were rolling up to My House. Now, from what I'm told, My House is "the newest, hottest nightclub and lounge in Hollywood." Just a few months back, I'd hosted a segment outside of the club, but had never been inside, since it's recent change of ownership. And with my Hollywood club hopping days long behind me, this was my first opportunity to attend an event there.

P. Diddy, the master of party planning, had done it again. Getting into the party was super easy. We parked our car, and checked in at the guest list table, then stopped to chat outside with Diddy's personal videographer. Reginald Weekes, who's a friend of Al's. Inside, the club lived up to the hype. It was beautifully decorated in warm, dark colors. And with the bed, comfy couches, and bathtub in the upstairs VIP lounge, it really did feel like you were inside of a Hollywood hills

mansion, rather than a club.

As I'd forgotten to put in my contacts, all of the faces inside the club were a blur. But Al was quick to point out the various celebrities that were walking by.

"There's Hill Harper!"

"Where?!" I asked squinting.

"And there's Wesley Snipes," Al said.

I turned and saw a bright, white smile and a shorter than I expected Snipes walk by, looking me up and down. "Hi there," he said.

"Hey," I replied.

The party was pretty star-studded. Jessica Alba and hubby Cash Warren. Janelle Monae. The Game. Queen Latifah. Taraji Henson, and Evan Ross (whom I LOVED in "Gardens of the Night"). I also ran into my old friend Aaron West and said a hello to his boy, Dwight Freeney.

Puff made a dramatic entrance half way through the party, followed by a mob of security, friends, hangers-on, and groupies. He eventually made his way to the dj booth and the music changed to the best of MJ. Al and I immediately made a beeline for the dance floor. I must have been pretty caught up in the music, because when I turned around, Al was about 6 feet away and their were security guys in black surrounding me as a crush of people trying to push in towards the dance floor. When I turned around, I instantly realized why. Diddy was two-stepping right next to me and Lil Mama was on my right.

Lil Mama stopped and looked at me. "Girl, you can dance."

"I know," I said smiling.

Me, Diddy, and Lil Mama danced together for a few minutes, then Puff headed back to the VIP with his swarm of people. Al and I took a break and grabbed a drink from the open bar-Ciroc, of course. And about an hour later, the pre-BET Awards party was over and it was time to head home.

Unfortunately, I didn't score tickets to the actual show. But Randy and I had a great time watching it together. I definitely give props to the BET production team for pulling off this re-vamped show in just 3 days. Having produced live tv for E! Entertainment, I know it is an extremely difficult task when you have 6 WEEKS to prepare. I can't imagine having to do it in 3 DAYS.

Jamie Foxx did an awesome job hosting and keeping the mood light for an audience that was obviously mourning the King of Pop. But was Jamie for real when during his performance of "She Got Her Own Thing" with Ne Yo & Fabolous, he riffed, "She can pay for the bills and take me out in this recession." Jamie-you are a damn fool!

For me, the highlights were definitely the O'Jays, Jay Z and Ne-Yo.

The O'Jays STILL got it! I wish we saw more authentic entertainers like them these days.

Jay Z put a silver bullet straight into the heart of all those auto tuned singers-which is almost everyone these days. It takes real Talent and lots of vocal training to sound the same on-stage as you do in the studio. Most "singers" today can't pull that off, because they rely so much on that magic instrument we call the auto tune. And their fans don't even realize these artists can't actually sing or hit a note correctly. I'm glad Jay Z pulled the lid off of that hoax.

Ne Yo blew me away as usual. Each time he took the stage, you could feel his genuine emotion. He is definitely a gifted writer, singer, and producer.

One of the not so stellar moments for me was Keri Hilson's performance. I think she tried t0 do too much. The over the top choreography made it almost impossible to hear the lyrics of her song-and I love both of the songs she performed. I wish she would have kept things a little simpler and instead opted for basic choreo that would have highlighted the moves she does best.

In addition, Beyonce's performance, though vocally superb, was very confusing and disjointed. I didn't understand her choice of costume. Was it a wedding gown? An angel's costume? Lingerie? And the blend of "Ave Maria" and "In the Arms of the Angel" didn't make sense to me either. Again, I think Beyonce could have done something simpler for the revised focus of the show. I would have liked to have seen less of THE BEYONCE SHOW EXPERIENCE and more of a heartfelt tribute to Michael.

But all in all, it was a great show. I loved seeing my favorite singers from the 80's and 90's-Keith Sweat, BBD, Maxwell, and even Tevin Campbell. And when Janet Jackson took to the stage, I was DONE! I don't know how she was able to make it out there, but I'm so glad she did. I was reduced to tears as she shared her grief, as well as her thanks for the love and fan support.

I give BET props on a job well done. I just hope I get a ticket next year!

Mourning Michael Jackson

2009-06-26T15:51:00.000-07:00

I've spent today trying to figure out why I feel so sad about Michael Jackson's passing. Of course he was a prolific entertainer, famous around the world for his music, dancing, fashion, and artistry. But I never even met him. Yet, for some reason, his death has left me with a sorrow so deep, it's as if I've lost a family member or best friend.

But Michael Jackson WAS like a member of my family. Through his music, I shared many moments of my life with him. I can remember exactly where I was each time one of his new music videos premiered.

As I've watched the news, BET, and MTV I've heard people talk about the influence Michael had on today's entertainers. As much as I love and appreciate the Usher's, Justin Timberlake's, and Ne-Yo's of the world, only Michael could create songs like HEAL THE WORLD, BLACK & WHITE, and MAN IN THE MIRROR and take them to the top of the charts. Michael didn't just write songs about love, sex, cars, women, and partying in the club. His lyrics reflected the world we live in, and how we all have the power to change it for the better. He was an incredible man--a genius who touched the lives of people across the world. He erased racial lines, and crossed barriers of class and gender. Something that very few people have had the power to do.

The closest I ever came to the Jackson family was an interview I did with Michael's brothers, Tito & Jermaine just a few months ago. GoTV sent me on assignment to interview them for Verizon in honor of Motown's 50th anniversary and Black History Month. I was so nervous to sit down with them, but within minutes I felt as if I was chatting with my uncles. Surprisingly shy, both Jermaine and Tito were humble, open, and had such a kind & gentle energy. From what I saw of Michael, I'd like to believe he was the same way.

Looking at the lyrics of Michael's song, CHILDHOOD, I can completely relate to his life:

Have you seen my Childhood?

I’m searching for the world that I come from

‘Cause I’ve been looking around

In the lost and found of my heart…No one understands me

I grew up with a father who was an alcoholic and addict. As a child in an environment like that, you're forced to deal with adult issues and grow up much too quickly. My escape was performing--singing, dancing, acting & trying to be a perfectionist at school to compensate for the turmoil at home. I wanted to make my mom's life easier-quite a daunting task for an 8 year old. Looking back, I realize my childhood, like Michael's, was much too short.

Have you seen my Childhood?
I’m searching for that wonder in my youth
Like fantastical stories to share
But the dreams I would dare, watch me fly…Before you judge me, try hard to love me.
The painful youth I’ve had

Have you seen my Childhood….

Michael lived a life with purpose. He touched so many people in his 50 years on this earth. And now God has taken him home, because his work is done. I know his spirit lives on, and so I write this letter to him.

Dear Michael,

Although I never met you, you touched me. Your lyrics & music ushered me through my life- first love & heartbreaks, good times & bad. Your work & example inspired me to live my life with passion, to pursue art and storytelling through the written word, dance, music, and performance. You were and will always be my inspiration. You will be missed.

Love, Shannon

A Foot in the Mouth is Worth Two in a Cab

2009-06-22T15:37:00.000-07:00

Our next day in Cannes was much more relaxing. Reena and I did the tourist thing and wondered around the city with our cameras pointed at everything and everyone. We photographed each other all over the boat docks. We pointed out which yachts were our favorite, and which were too over the top. We took pictures of a french man who sunbathed like only Europeans can--oiled up and wearing a thong. In the middle of one of our photo shoots, a group of 15 photographers mistook us for "somebodies" and started snapping OUR photos as we sat on the merry-go-round.

"We're not anyone important," Reena said to them.

"Reena! Yes, we are," I said. "Now pose!"

We did our best America's Next Top Model poses that would have made Miss Jay proud.

"So what should we do tonight?" Reena asked me as we walked away from the papparazzi.

"After last night, DEFINITELY something low-key," I said.

"What about Nikki Beach?"

I lifted my sunglasses onto the top of my head. "Why don't we check out Nikki Beach now and see what all the fuss is about."

Nikki Beach is the daytime playland for all the celebrities and beautiful people in Cannes. DJ's pump house music, while the young, rich & gorgeous lounge on cushy white beds that dot the pier. Unfortunately, those swanky beds run about $300 a pop (and that only comes with 1 bottle of champagne.) I definitely wanted to enjoy the whole Nikki Beach experience of sunning myself by the ocean with a tropical drink in my hand. But I wasn't up for the hassle of scouting someone out to buy me drinks all afternoon. So Reena and I decided to try and get a VIP bed of our own, without paying the $300 price tag.

Once inside of Nikki Beach, we scoped out a good looking waiter. Mustering up my best French, I asked,
"If we order two drinks, could we pretty please (insert eyelash battting here) relax on one of the empty beds for just a 1/2 hour?"

He looked at Reena and I and smiled. He said it was cool, as long as we didn't tell his manager.

In less than 5 seconds, Reena and I were out of our sundresses and applying lotion. As I expected, our one drink turned into complimentary shots from the bartender, then one of the VIP beds next to us ordered us a round of drinks. We ended up hanging out until long after the sunset. A little TOO long actually, because we missed the last bus back to our hotel.

Annoyed at myself for not keeping an eye on the time, we decided to head to McDonald's for some food while we tried to figure out how to get back to our hotel.

"Hey-is everything okay?"

I rolled my eyes at the British guy sitting at the sidewalk cafe. I REALLY didn't feel like being chatted up right now. Reena and I kept walking towards Mickey D's.

"I'll take a Happy Meal," Reena said as we stood in line.

"Make it two," I told the woman behind the counter.

All of the sudden, I felt a tap on my shoulder. "Excuse me, Miss?" I turned around to see the British guy from the sidewalk cafe. Apparently, he'd followed us the two blocks to McDonalds.

"What?" I spat at him.

"You looked kind of upset when you passed me. I wanted to see if everything was ok."

"Is everything ok?" I repeated. "No! Everything is NOT ok. We missed our bus back to our hotel, and we don't feel like paying an arm & a leg for a cab to get there. Is everything ok with YOU?"

He smiled at me, completely ignoring my rudeness. "Do you need a ride?"

"You want to give us a ride to our hotel?"

"Sure," he said. "Where is it?"

"We're staying in Mandelieu de Napoule. It's about 15 minutes from here."

"Sure. My friend and I can give you ladies a lift. We were just finishing up dinner. You saw where we were sitting right?"

I nodded.

"Just come on over when you're done here and we'll take you back to your place."

I decided he looked harmless enough, so I agreed. Besides, I'd studied some martial arts, so if he pulled anything, he'd be heading home to the U.K. with one less testicle.

"Wow! That was nice of him," Reena said. "Maybe we can hang out with him and his friend tonight.

"We'll see," I replied taking my Happy Meal and grabbing a seat.

We downed our food within minutes and headed back to the sidewalk cafe.

"So what's your name anyway?" I asked the Brit.

"I'm Blaine. And this is Ryan. But we call him Harry...as in Harry Potter. It's a long story."

"Nice to meet you, Blaine. And you too, Harry Potter. Thanks for helping us out."

On the ride to our hotel, we found out the guys co-owned a photo agency back in the UK and were in Cannes with their photographer friend to cover the film festival.

"So basically, you're paparazzi?" I asked.

"Pretty much," said Harry.

Blaine looked at me through his rear view mirror. "So what are you ladies doing tonight?"

"We're not sure yet," Reena replied sticking her head between the seats. "We were thinking maybe heading back to Nikki Beach for drinks."

"What about the VIP Room?" asked Harry.

I nudged Reena. I really didn't feel like hanging out with these guys tonight.
"We did that last night," I said. "We want do to something a little more low-key tonight."

"Aw, you should come with us to the VIP Room. We were there the past 3 nights, and we're going to get a table again tonight. Come on! It'll be fun. Drinks on us all night."

"We'll see..." I said.

Reena leaned over and whispered in my ear. "How are we going to get back into Cannes tonight? Maybe they'll come pick us up."

"Hey-where is your hotel?"Blaine questioned nervously. "These roads are really confusing. I don't know how we're going to find our way back into Cannes."

"You're fine. Just keep going straight," I said.

Harry turned to Reena and I in the back seat. "So Nikki Beach, huh? We could all go to Nikki Beach together. We have to pick up our two photographers from a bar in Cannes, then we can all hang out together."

"Well, we still have to get ready," Reena responded as they pulled up to our hotel. "Maybe we can just get ready at your place."

AHHHHH! I wanted to scream. WHY did she say that?

"That's a great idea!" Blaine exclaimed. "That way we won't get lost on our way back to Cannes."
"Awesome!" Reena opened the car door. "We'll go grab some clothes and be right back."

As soon as we were inside of our hotel, I gave Reena the death stare. "Reena! Why did you tell them we'd come back to their place?"

"Because now we don't have to pay a cab to get us back into town. We can always ditch them once we're there."

"Whatever, "I said throwing some clothes into a bag. This night had better not be a bust.

Once we picked up their two friends, we arrived at their rented condo in the hills above Cannes. I had to admit, their place WAS really nice. They made us a few drinks and sparked up some hashish, passing it around between them. After about 3 hours of hanging around, everyone finally got ready to leave.

"So, we're going to the VIP Room, right?" asked their weird paparazzi friend.

"NO!" I said. "Reena and I have to check out of our hotel at 9am and catch a train to Rome. We have to be back at our place no later than 3am to get some sleep. Let's just go to Nikki Beach. It's so much closer."

"We'll have you home in time," the creepy guy said. " Don't worry about it."

I crossed my arms and looked at everyone in the room. "I just want to go to Nikki Beach," I whined. Looking at their faces, including Reena's, I realized I was outnumbered and outvoted. Five minutes later, we were off to the VIP Room.

Once inside, I became more and more agitated. Our new friends not only DIDN'T get a table, they also couldn't get their whole group in. I quickly realized that they had used Reena and I as arm candy to get two of them through the door, but the other two guys were not allowed in by security. Blaine was running around the club like a chicken with his head cut off, trying to find the manager (whom he claimed he knew), to try and get his friends in.

Reena ended up finding a guy she'd met earlier at Nikki Beach, and was hanging with him at his VIP table. I just walked around the club wondering how I was going to get my bag of clothes out of Blaines car.

Over an hour later, Blaine was still trying to get his friends in. I decided I'd had enough. Reena found me standing against a wall. Seeing the look on my face, she immediately took pity on me. "Let's get out of here."

We found Blaine standing out front negotiating with security.

"Blaine, we're leaving. We need to get our stuff out of your car," Reena said.

"No, don't leave. They're gonna let them in in the next 15 minutes.

"That's great, but we're leaving, " Reena said putting her hand out for the keys.

All of the sudden, a fight broke out right next to us. In the melee, Blaine's two friends ran around the fight and snuck into the club. Reena and I followed them, not sure if the fight was going to turn dangerous for everyone standing there.

"See, we're all in now, "Blaine smiled. "Let's go dance."

"No, man. We've been waiting around for over an hour." I smiled. Look at Reena getting all tough!

"You guys DIDN'T get a table. You didn't even buy us a drink. You've had us standing around here for nothing. And the club sucks tonight. Either give me the keys to your car and we'll bring them back, or you can walk with us."

"Fine," Blaine relented, following us back outside.

The entire walk to the car, Blaine huffed and puffed about us leaving. All of the sudden, our sweet British guy had become a REAL jerk.

"Look," I told him. "We told you guys we couldn't stay out all night. It's already 3am now and your friends just got into the club. We should have just went to Nikki Beach like I said, so we all could have gotten in without a problem."

He grabbed my arm. "Well, can I call you?"

I pulled my arm out of his hand and grabbed my bag out of the car. "No thanks," I said.

As Reena and I left him fuming, I realized that we were now about 30 minutes away from our hotel and I didn't see a cab in sight.

"What do we do now, Shannon?"

"Start walking," I said.

After 10 minutes of carrying my duffle bag, all thoughts of being ladylike went out the window. I pulled off my heels and tried to wiggle life back into my baby toes.

"Look at all these people driving by. They probably think we're hookers," Reena laughed.

"If I saw us, I would think we were hookers," I giggled.

After 15 more minutes trudging down the street, we finally waved down a cab. I was so tired and annoyed, I didn't feel like translating, so I just sat in the back rubbing my feet. Reena sat in the front and did her best job communicating directions to the driver. And after getting us lost twice, we pulled up to our hotel.

"You said it's 20 Euros, right?" Reena asked him.

The cab driver looked at Reena. "Oui. Or, for my pleasure, I lick your feet."

Did he just say what I think he said?!? I was so tired and annoyed, I must have imagined that one.

Reena stared at him wide-eyed. "You want to WHAT?"

"For my pleasure, I lick your feet," the cab driver said again.

"Um, no thank-you. We'll just pay you the 20 Euros. Shannon-do you have 5 more Euros?!?"

At this point, I was laughing so hard I could barely open my purse. I handed Reena a coin, as tears started streaming down my face. She handed him the money and jumped out of the cab, leaving me in the back seat in hysterics.

The cab driver turned to me. "And for you-I lick your feet?"

I looked at my feet, black with dirt from walking the streets of Cannes. "I can NOT believe you just said that," I said wiping the tears from my eyes. "You have lost your DAMN mind! You are a freak." I grabbed my bag and slammed the door behind me.

Reena had already run to the door of the hotel and was standing there in horror. I walked up to her trying not to pee myself.

"I can't believe you left me in there with him," I said still laughing.

"Hurry up! He might try and follow us, " Reena squeaked pulling my arm.

We got into our room and both collapsed on my bed laughing hysterically. Hey, a foot in mouth, has got to be worth a ride for two in a cab. But NOT tonight!

Temptations, Toasts, and Dita Von Teese

2009-06-12T13:23:00.000-07:00

Getting to & from Cannes was no easy feat. Our little bed & breakfast hotel was a good 15-minutes outside of the city, which meant we were traveling by bus, a SUPER expensive cab ride, or hitch hiking. Since my friends and family had terrified me with stories about young, pretty girls being kidnapped and never seen nor heard from again, Reena and I opted for public transportation. This particular night, we were lucky enough to catch a ride with our hotel's concierge--a plump french woman in her 20's who's name completely escapes me right now.

Anyway, she gave us a ride (for the bargain price of 15 Euros) and dropped us off at the Casino next to the marina. Reena and I decided to freshen up inside and try to get ahold of the guy she'd met at the Internet cafe earlier that day. After 3 attempts on the Casino pay phone, we'd almost given up when a pretty & drunk young American girl named Katie offered us her cell phone. Katie was in Cannes working on a privately owned yacht for the festival. Basically, Katie and her crewmates travel all over the world aboard this yacht and they work private functions--business meetings, wedding receptions, celebrity parties, etc. Katie was a waitress on the yacht and with her one night off, she was ready to party!

When the dude from the Internet cafe didn't pick up Reena's 6th phone call, I suggested we hang with Katie and her crew. She took us onto the casino floor and introduced us to Seth-a sweet, Indian guy from South Africa, Kelly-a tall, blonde Australian girl, and Jim- a portly fella from the U.K. Most of her friends were exhausted from working an event the night before, so it only ended up being me, Reena, Katie, and Seth left to explore Cannes' nightlife.

We all agreed to hit a trendy club called the VIP ROOM, I'd seen profiled on celebrity websites. Once we reached the club, Reena and I worked the guys at the door for a few minutes, and got all of us in for free. By this time, it was Midnight, but that's early by European standards. In Cannes, the party doesn't even get started until 1 or 2am. There were MAYBE 100 people wondering around, and we had the entire dance floor to ourselves. The dj was fantastic, and after jammin to a couple of songs, we made friends with some German guys in the VIP section (yes, there are VIP sections in the VIP Room), and we all toasted to a fantastic night. After that, Reena and I decided to explore the clubs different rooms.

The outside patio was a circus-LITERALLY. There were people dressed up like acrobats, and animal tamers inside of cages with lions, horses, and camels. We wondered over to pet the horses and llama, and take pictures with them. Poor things! The animals looked like the LAST place they wanted to be was taking pictures in a nightclub in the south of France :-( The little mini-horse even tried to bite me when the flash went off.

Around the perimeter of the patio were food stations, bars, and boutiques selling apparel with VIP ROOM emblazoned across the front & back. I'd already decided I was going to stick with red bull that night, so I skipped the bar and decided to pull out my video camera and record some of the craziness.

As I made my way back into the club, the party was really starting to pick up. The circular dance floor was now rotating and packed with beautiful, model looking people from all around the world. Everytime a table in the VIP section ordered a drink, the servers ran out with flaming bottles of liquor, followed by these alien looking stiltwalkers who were dressed in head to toe silver body suits.

Time check- 3:30am. DAMN I was tired. And I wanted to spend some daytime hours on the beach tomorrow. But Reena was busy being chatted up by some tall, good-looking European guy. So I sat down & chilled with the group of German boys and noticed that a show was about to start on stage. And who waltzes out but International burlesque star Dita Von Teese. She gave a 6-minute shower show performance to the screaming crowd. Apparently, Tom-the German guy sitting next to me had gotten REALLY excited by Dita's show.

"Shannon, you are most beautiful woman I ever meet. You pick one place on da world you dream to go, and I will take you there. ANYWHERE! We go."

I squint my eyes wondering if this man was on something. "Um, thanks. I'm really flattered. But I don't even know you. I make it a policy not to travel to foreign countries with men I've only known for 4 hours."

He poked out his lower lip feigning sadness.

I smiled. "But we can be Facebook friends!" Hey, he seemed nice enough, and that was the best pick up line I'd EVER heard.

At this point, Katie and Seth were nowhere to be seen, and Reena was still screaming back & forth with the European gigolo. So, I pulled her aside for a second and told her I was ready to leave.

"No! Not yet. The party is still going on," Reena yelled over her shoulder walking away from.

"Reena, no really. It's 4am. I'm exhausted. I'm ready to go." I turned her towards me and pulled the strap back up on her blue dress. "I'm going to the bathroom, I'll meet you back here in 10 minutes."

10 minutes later, Reena was nowhere in sight. After checking the patio, the VIP section, the bathroom, and even inside the lion's cage, I finally saw her walking by with Sir Humps Alot.

"Reena! There you are. Let's go."

"Shannon, I'm not ready to leave yet. Come on!"

"Fine," I said annoyed. "Then give me the keys and I'll take a cab."

Reena reluctantly fished around in her purse. "It's only 4:30. And the German crew has an after-party that starts at 7am. Plus a cab is gonna cost you like $75."

"I don't care," I said taking the keys from her. "I'm exhausted and we've been out all day. You can stay with them if you want to, but do you even know the address of our hotel so you can get home in the morning???"

"No," she said. "But I could just meet you on the beach in Cannes."

"Reena-seriously? These people barely speak English. You don't know them. And neither of us has a cell phone, so how can we meet up in the morning? I don't feel good about this."

"Fine! Let me just say good-bye." She stomped away as I turned to walk out of the club. A few minutes later, she came outside where I was hunting for a cab.

"I can't believe you wanted to leave so early. It's a PARTY for God's sake!"

"I know Reena. Life is just a big party."

"Are you being condescending? What are you trying to say? " she said trying to balance herself in her stilettos.

"Nothing. I'm just tired. It's almost 5am, and I wanna go to bed. Do you want me to leave you here with people you don't know and can barely communicate with? You're drunk. If something happens, it's on my conscience. But if you REALLY want to stay, you're a grown ass woman-so STAY!"

I started walking towards the main street, since there wasn't a cab in sight where we were standing. Reena ran in front of me and grabbed me by my shoulders. "I'm sorry. You're right. I'm just drunk, and I want to have a good time. But let's go home." She hugged me really tight, like how my dad used to after he'd gone through a case of Budweiser.

Reena finally let me out of the hug, but held my shoulders. "Are you mad at me?"

"No, Reena. I'm not mad at you. Let's just get a cab."

We started walking down the street again.

"Who was that guy anyway?" I asked.

She shrugged. "I don't know. He was friends with the German guys and he kept asking me if I was a fluffer."

"Oh God, Reena. What an asshole! Why were you talking to him for an hour then?"

"I was trying to set him straight. But I don't think he spoke English very well."

"You should have slapped him and walked away," I said.

Reena looked at me and laughed. "You've gotta admit he was cute though."

I smiled at her. "Yeah. He was hot."

I Cannes, You Cannes, We all Cannes

2009-06-03T11:01:00.001-07:00

The train ride to Nice, France was EXACTLY what I needed after the last few busy days in Paris. I arrived at the station with plenty of time to spare and plopped into an empty seat in the front of the train. I was sitting in a four-seater section with 3 other women. One of them was in her 70's and kept sneezing every 30 seconds. She better not have Swine Flu, I thought to myself. The other woman was a brunette in her early 40's and appeared to be kind of jittery. The train slowly began chugging along as the redhead sitting to my left waved to her young son through the window until he was just a distant speck on the horizon. I laid my head against the window. Little raindrops slid down the glass and the gray countryside began zipping by me. Within minutes, I was fast asleep.

"Excuse-moi, Mademoiselle."

I wiped the drool from the side of my cheek and looked at the conductor guy who was tapping my shoulder.

"Vous billet."

"Oh, yeah. My ticket. It's right here....J'ai un billet de Eurail. Parce que, ou est 7-25?" I mumbled in French.

"This is first class, ma'am. But that's ok," he said in perfect English.

He punched my ticket and kept walking.

Nice! First class and I only had to pay 3 Euros. The rest of my time in France seemed to go alot like that--pure luck & chance.

When I arrived in the city of Nice, I had about 3 hours to kill before my friend, Reena's plane arrived. So I dragged my huge rolling luggage bag AND duffel bag (WHAT WAS I THINKING PACKING LIKE THIS) and I found a little buffet restaurant next to the train station. As soon as I walked in, I realized I had no idea where the buffet started, and whether or not I should pay first, or order, or what. A guy who I assumed to be the assistant manager must have seen the confusion in my face. After about 5 minutes of my broken French and his broken English, I understood that I was supposed to pay first, then order my burger at the grill. The manager's name was Martin and he was from Senegal. He brought me a cup of coffee when I was done eating. We sat together for about an hour. He asked me questions about America. I asked him about Senegal and France. And before I knew it, three hours had passed and it was time to meet Reena.

It was no easy task finding her in the mob of people at the train station. I had taken my contacts out and basically-I'm legally blind without them. I saw the fuzzy image of a girl who looked like my friend walk by with someone. That COULDN'T have been Reena. She's traveling alone. But when the two women walked by again, I screamed out her name.

"Shannon?" Reena asked squinting at me.

"Reena, is that you?" I squinted back at her.

"Yeah. I forgot my glasses in California. I can't see a thing," she said. "I found this nice woman to help me find you. No one else around me spoke English!"

By the time we'd arrived at our hotel (which was a 15-minute drive from Cannes) it was Midnight and Reena was starving. I knew we probably weren't going to find anything open, but we decided to try to venture out by foot anyway. After an hour of walking around in the dark, we finally called it a night.

The next morning, Reena was up bright & early getting breakfast in the hotel lobby. I dragged my tired behind out of bed, and we caught a bus into downtown Cannes. The center of the city was swarming with people for the Cannes Film Festival. We decided to stop at a restaurant along the beach and scope out the scene.

"So how are we going to get into parties," Reena asked.

"Well, most of the invites I got were for earlier in the week, so we've missed those premieres. But let's hit up an Internet cafe and see if we can find the hot party spots."

At the Internet cafe, Reena worked some British guy sitting at the computer next to her, and scored us an invite to two parties that night. Meanwhile, I worked the web and found two of the clubs where all of the celebs were photographed the night before.

We spent the rest of the afternoon relaxing on the beach and taking in all of the excitement of the festival. We met a tv host from Britain who was shooting segments for his show and he recruited us for a soccer goal kicking contest. And hopefully that video will never see the light of day. Little did we know our adventure in the South of France would REALLY begin that night......

Gay Paris!

2009-06-02T11:47:00.000-07:00

My trip to Paris was more than I dreamed!

After the "key debacle" in London, and 4 days exploring the city alone, I was really looking forward to meeting my sisters & mom in Paris. I hopped on a flight at 5am to meet Miss Rose, Angela, and Airin at Charles de Gaulle airport. They were all flying in from Philadelphia so we could spend 3 1/2 days in the Light City. (Did you know it actually translates as the Light City NOT the City of Light ;-)

My mom, sisters, and I had always talked about going to Paris together...one day. But when we were dreaming about it, it was the 1980's and my mom was struggling to raise 3 girls alone in small-town Coatesville, Pennsylvania. Back then, it was hard enough trying to keep our big old house heated during the cold winter months. So discussions of vacations in Paris were more like a fantasy, then an actual plan. But here we were. All of us together in Paris, France.

I'd always been enamored with the french culture--the history, the art, the food, the men! Who else could getaway with wearing a beret cocked to the side, a turtleneck, and skinny jeans (before skinny jeans were in), but French men? And now there were French men as far as the eye could see!

We spent the first day on a bus tour of the city. We saw all the places we'd only seen on tv or in pictures. The Eiffel Tower. L'arc de Triomphe. Notre Dame. We bought sandwiches off the street, and warmed ourselves with piping cups of cafe au lait. I got to practice my french with annoyed store clerks, who would start speaking to me in English after 3 seconds. But I would just smile, and repeat my request again. "Combien coute, el plancher?"

I can tell you this much, I have never in my LIFE walked so much in three days-and in the rain at that! But none of us let it dampen our spirits. My older sister, Angela (the engineer that she is) had thankfully mapped out our schedule. We hit about 90% of the places we had wanted to see. We took tons of pictures and video, so we could remember it forever. And we even got an impromptu singing performance by my younger sister, Airin, at a jazzy supper club our second night. I'm always floored whenever I see her get up on stage with a musician she's never met or sang with before, and she just tears it up!

I wonder what my mom was thinking seeing all of her daughters together in Paris- all grown up, but still her babies.

The 3 1/2 days passed way too quickly. And sadly, our trip ended on a somewhat somber note because of a disagreement that erupted over my work as a burlesque dancer. I now officially feel like a black sheep. Things to contemplate later, but now it's time to catch a train to Cannes.......

Things I Have Learned (So Far) While Traveling Abroad....

2009-05-21T04:48:00.001-07:00

SO much has happened since my last post. Unfortunately, I only have a few more minutes left in this Internet Cafe, so I will wait until later to recount all of the crazy stories. Instead, here are the things I have learned so far while traveling abroad.....

1.) Computer keyboards in Europe are NOT the same as in the U.S. which has really slowed down my 85 wpm.

2.) When traveling abroad with family and/or friends, you WILL argue bitterly and viciously with another....in front of other people...about very deep issues. But if you can hug that person the next day, you will be that much closer.

3.) When I am dancing, I am fully 100% expressing myself freely, passionately, and without inhibition. When I am dancing, I feel beautiful.

4.) When traveling from country to country, I will lose things. MANY things.

5.) My greatest joys have come from the simplest things--like staring silently at a piece of art while standing next to my mom & sister.

6.) Writing is healing.

7.) My french is much better than I thought it was. Daccord!!!!!

8.) Being in a foreign county alone makes me appreciate even more the people at home who love and care about me.

9.) I want to be a better friend, daughter, and sister.

10.) I am exactly where God wants me to be at this very moment.

11.) Those who truly love me will accept me just as I am in this moment-flaws and all.

12.) I will always be a free spirit and someone who seeks adventure.

13.) I no longer fear conflict, but I also do not seek it out.

14.) Being beautiful has nothing to do with the clothes that I am wearing or the shape of my body. Beauty is a feeling that is exuded from the inside out.

15.) Sometimes, even the people closest to me who love me the most will not "get me", and that is okay.

16.) I have already met the man I am going to marry.

LONDON LOCKOUT

2009-05-12T19:07:00.000-07:00

My first full day in London was memorable to say the least. I had so many adventures-everything from your typical tourist stuff, a protest at Trafalgar Square, dancing at an after-hours club and an unexpected stay at a hostel. OH yeah. It gets better!

I was completely jet-lagged, but finally managed to drag myself out of bed at Noon. Now most Londoners get around my subway (which they call "the tube"). I've navigated the subways of NYC and the trains in Philly, but London's metro is a whole different animal. Since I was on no particular schedule, I just bought a full day metro pass and figured if I got on the wrong train, I'd find my way eventually.

By 2pm, I was finally in dowtown London. And what an incredible city! London is all about the architecture. There are these amazing old buildings that just breathe history. I could almost hear them telling stories of days gone by. The streets are filled with people on-the-go, but unlike New Yorkers, Londoners aren't oblivious to the people around them. They are extremely friendly and whenever I stopped someone to ask for directions, they happily obliged.

I eventually made my way to Piccadilly Circus where I hopped on one of those big, red double-decker tour buses. It stopped at all of the notable London landmarks. My faves were Shaftesbury (Theater Row) and Buckingham Palace. Can you believe the Queen didn't even invite me in for tea?!?

After the tour, I was walking through Trafalgar Square where a protest was going on. Thousands of motorcyclists were demonstating against a new parking charge of 1.5 Pounds per day (which is about $2.20). I got some video of the whole scene, though my Panasonic HDD cam died, so I had to record video with my digital camera.

After following the protesters around the city, I decided to warm myself up with an Irish coffee at a pub near Piccadilly Circus. After that, I headed over to a bookstore called Waterstone's to read and buy a French & Italian language book for the next leg of my trip.

It wasn't until I left the bookstore and was on the 2nd train that I realized I didn't have Raj's apartment keys! I remembered taking them out of my pocket and putting them in my purse at the pub, but that was the last time I'd seen them. So, I hopped back on the metro to re-trace my steps.

First stop was the bookstore--CLOSED. Ok, my keys HAD to be at the pub. I walked the 5 blocks but the keys were nowhere to be seen. No one had turned them in, and I didn't see them where I sat or in the bathroom. By this point, I was near tears. I'm in a city I don't know--ALONE. And I've lost the last copy of keys to Raj's flat.

He's gonna kill me. Okay, think Shannon. Think! Well, a drink will always eases the pain right? So elbow up to the bar and have a screw driver. The cute Italian restaurant manager felt sorry for me and we do a shot together. Meanwhile, the waitress comes over and asks if she can help.

"Is there a hostel nearby?" I ask.

"Yes. There's one right in Piccadilly Square. I'll look up the address and phone number for you." (I told you Londoners were friendly!)

She comes back a few minutes later with directions and takes my number in case my keys turn up. By this time, it's Midnight. It's cold. And all I can think about are the horror stories Randy told me about what happens to people in hostels. But when I walk up, the hostel doesn't look too creepy. There's a guy monitoring at the front desk who is super sweet and sends me up to the 4th floor reception area. I wonder for a second if they have a tub of ice and some dirty instruments waiting up there to swiftly remove my liver or kidney for sale on the black market. STOP IT! On the 4th floor is nice African guy named Marc. He takes pity on me and puts me in my own room. It looks kind of like a jail. A small 10X12 space with 2 bunk beds.

Well, it's either lay here alone and stare at the ceiling, or go to a nearby club to pass the time. So the club it is!

Back down at the front desk, the monitor gives me a bracelet for a discotheque around the corner. When I walk in, I'm quickly approached by a bald French guy who barely speaks English. Now my French is REALLY rusty, but I could understand this much-he's offering to buy me a drink. Frenchie & I struggle to communicate as he tries to put the moves on me. Thank God two of his buddies walk up a few minutes later. But it's funny-the interaction between these 3 friends is quite interesting. I know European men are VERY different from American men. From my experience, they're very affectionate & more in touch with their "feminine side", but THESE 3 dudes were really touchy feely with one another. I couldn't quite decide if they were gay or super-close. I figured it didn't matter. Either way I was alone & I needed company, so why even ask.

We danced to a mix of Euro-pop and American top 40. I watched while the guys pushed up on a group of Persian girls who didn't look very interested, although one chic seemed like she was into girls, i.e. me. LOL.

The French boys figured out they weren't getting any play and left about an hour later. So I hung out with the Persian girls until two new guys start doing that weird sneaking up & trying to dance behind you-thing.

"I DO see you, you know!" I said to one.

"I just want to dance," he said

"That's fine. Just don't dance behind me. It's weird."

The guys were Albanian. They turned out to be really nice. They invited us to an after-hours club called Heaven, so we all went together.

Heaven was a complete sausage fest. It was mostly gay guys, which I was happy about because gay clubs play the best music and you don't have someone poking you from behind :-) The Albanian guys were a little uncomfortable and tried to get all of us girls to go back to there place. We were like, "Nice Try! If you're not having fun, you can leave because we're staying." So they took off & we stayed. I left Heaven before the rest of the girls. The sun was just coming up as I walked back towards the hostel. About 15 minutes later, I realized I had no idea where I was going, so I stopped two Brazilian guys to ask for directions.

"We're going that way too. You can wait for the bus with us, " said Ricardo.

As we chatted and waited for the bus, I realized I had used the last of my British pounds the night before. My two new Brazilian friends seemed quite impressed that I spoke some Portuguese, so I knew I could bum fare from them. We exchanged info on the bus and I bid them adieu at the Piccadilly stop.

Once back at the hostel, I crashed HARD. And when I woke up at 10am, all of my internal organs were still intact-so THERE Randy! After checking out, I walked back to the bookstore, and OF COURSE--no keys. On a last ditch effort, I called the tour bus company AND went to the metro lost & found, but no such luck. It was time to break the news to Raj. It went a little something like this.

Ring-ring.

Me: Hi Raj!

Raj: Hi Shannon. How are you?

Me: Good. How's Vienna?

Raj: Great.

Me: Ok, Raj. I have something to tell you but you can't get mad at me.

Raj: Ok. Tell me.

Me: I lost the keys to your flat. I'm SO sorry. I've looked everywhere and I know they're your last set, so I'll just pay for the locks to get changed, but I had to let you know first.

Raj: Oh, no! That's ok. It happens. I locked myself out a last week, though and it's like 160 Pounds just for the locksmith to come out.

I did the calculations in my head. $244!!!! There go my acting classes when I get back to L.A.

Raj: But you know what. Maybe my landlord has keys. I can call him and check.

Me: Oh, that would be great! I'll take the metro to where ever he is.

Raj: Okay, I'll call you back as soon as I hear from him.

Well, God was on my side and Raj's landlord DID have keys. I met him near his office at Liverpool Street, and FINALLY made it back to the flat at 3pm today!

What an adventure. Although it was a complete hassle, I did have fun and found that despite the problems, there were things that brought me joy.

TODAY'S JOY LIST:

#1. Wondering through a beautiful foreign city with no particular place to go.

#2. Sitting & writing at a Scottish pub in London

#3. Hanging out in a bookstore and reading poetry by Yeats, Baudelaire, Wilde, Plath, and O'Reilly.

#4. Practicing my french

#5. Finally sleeping after the LONGEST DAY OF TOURING EVER!

***Below is a clip from the protest

My Joy Chasing Challenge-The European Edition!

2009-05-10T13:29:00.000-07:00

JOY \'joi\ n. "A source or cause of delight."

~Webster's Dictionary.

Last month I was pondering this word-JOY. Everyone's definition is different. For some, food brings them joy. For others, it's there work, a lover or children, a hobby, or simply peace & quiet. But how often do we actually make joy a daily goal?

I know, I sound like an episode of Oprah. But seriously--most of the things we do from day to day we don't really want to do. We go to jobs that we don't like. We do work that we're not passionate about. We spend time with people who annoy us. When is enough ENOUGH?!

So to bring more joy into my life, I decided to create the 4-week Joy Chasing Challenge. For the next 30 days, EVERY day I will be pursuing only the things that bring me joy (with the exception of paying bills--gotta do that no matter what). As apart of my challenge, I decided to spend 3 weeks traveling around Europe, because traveling is one of the things that makes me utterly JOYOUS :-)

And today, I arrived in London!!! I was so excited, I didn't sleep a wink on the plane. And although I've only been here for 13 hours, I've been really surprised by what I've seen. It's a city full of young people. Everyone appears to be 30 and under. They dress pretty casually with kind of an 80's hip & trendy style happening. And there are these teeny tiny streets that you'd think are one-way but have traffic going BOTH directions! And cars park in both directions on the same side of the street, which to me is very strange.

For the next 3 days, I'm staying in the apartment of one of my best childhood friends, Raj. But he's out of town, so I had to pick up his house keys from his dog walker. Sounds simple enough. But YOU try making it from the airport to an apartment in a city as large as London with two bags all while wearing gold Roman sandals! It's not so easy.

After taking two subways, and calling the dog walker twice, I FINALLY found her place down a tiny alley. And here's how it went.....

(Dog walker peaks her head outside of the doorway)

DOG WALKER: Here you go. (tosses me the keys)

ME: Wait! I forgot to print out Raj's address. Do you know what it is?

DOG WALKER: Uh, no. Sorry.

(I pick up my luggage that's just tipped over.)

ME: I have it in my email. Do you have Internet?

DOG WALKER: Uh...yeah. But I have people over at my flat right now and it's very small. Sorry. I know the general direction of where he lives.

ME: Do you know where there's a cyber cafe nearby?

DOG WALKER: No, sorry.

ME: Ok, could you at least point me in the direction of where he lives?

DOG WALKER: No, that's not gonna work. Wait here.

(I look at 3 guys standing in the alley nearby and I shrug.)

***3 minutes later****

(A guy pokes his head out of the doorway.)

DOG WALKER'S HUSBAND: Hey, you Raj's friend?

ME: Yeah.

DOG WALKER'S HUSBAND: I have my Macbook.

(I drag my luggage closer to the doorway, wary to leave it unattended near the 3 guys in the alley.)

ME: Thanks. I'll be fast.

DOG WALKER'S HUSBAND: Do you know how to get there from here?

ME: Not really. I know how to get back to the metro...

DOG WALKER'S HUSBAND: Well, you can walk to the tube station on Aldridge.

ME: The what?

DOG WALKER'S HUSBAND: The tube station. The metro... I'm not connecting to the Internet out here. Wanna come in?

ME: Thanks. How long have you two been living in London?

DOG WALKER'S HUSBAND: 2 years. I got a job here. We knew we wanted to live abroad so we made it work. You could also take the bus that runs down Great East Street.

ME: Thanks alot. I'll find it. Thanks. Enjoy your party.

I dragged my luggage back down into the alleyway and sat down on the curb. The 3 guys had dwindled to 1.

GUY 1: You on vacation?

ME: Yes. Do you know if there's a taxi station around here?

GUY 1: Not sure, but I can call a cab for you.

ME: You can?! Yes. Thank you so much.

GUY 1: No problem.

ME: What's your name?

GUY 1: Sebastian. You have the address you're going to?

(I hand him the paper.)

SEBASTIAN: He said he'll be here in about 15 minutes. He'll arrive in black little van. Should cost around 11 pounds.

ME: Thank you so much. I can't walk anymore.

SEBASTIAN: How long are you here for?

ME: 4 days in London, then flying to Paris, Cannes, Rome, then back to London.

(Climbs on his bike.)

SEBASTIAN: Wow! Sounds like fun. You should go to Brick Lane tonight. It's near where you're staying.

ME: Thank you.

SEBASTIAN: Enjoy your trip!

So after a LONG cab ride (how in the HELL did the Dog walker's hubby think I could walk this!), and a cat nap, I went for a stroll down the famous Brick Lane. This area of East London is mostly Indian. And I was shocked how the men outnumbered the women 10:1. Many of the shops in other parts of the city seemed to be closed, but Brick Lane was bumpin' with scents of curry coming from the many Indian restaurants. Since I'll be eating out alot for the next few weeks, I decided to pick up a few groceries to take back to Raj's.

Just yesterday, I was at my apartment in L.A. And now here I sit watching the BBC in a flat in East London and drinking a glass of red wine. Today was definitely a joyful day!

****Stay tuned. I'll be posting pics, video, and more stories about my trip.

Gettin' Friendly with Flo Rida

2009-04-08T16:39:00.000-07:00

If you were one of the critics who thought Flo Rida was just another one-hit wonder-- you better recognize! His latest album R.O.O.T.S (Route of Overcoming the Struggle) has EXPLODED on the Billboard charts with the cuts "Right Round" and "Sugar." Flo Rida is also making his presence known with Verizon Wireless users. He's been topping their V CAST Music full song, hip hop AND ringtone download lists for weeks.

Representing Verizon, I sat down with him in his suite at the SLS Hotel in L.A. right before his show at The Roxy. He opened up to me about making the leap from the Carol City, Florida projects to the top of the music charts. Here were the highlights.

Shannon: This album was a departure for you. This is not the sound people are used to hearing from you, coming from Florida, from the Dirty South. Was that a conscious choice?

Flo rida: Most definitely. Just like doing a book. Definitely gotta step it up and keep people interested. So I mean I love the fact that prior to me having a record deal, always try different new things, new ideas. Using the Dead Or Alive sample from coming from "Low" - I know it was definitely a transition and that's what I wanted people to get from it. It has a lot of substance I would say alongside the big party joints as well. But definitely I wanted to go back to my roots and let people know where I come from, what I stand for. How I got the success and what I'll do to keep it.

Shannon: Who is playing on YOUR Top 10 List right now?

Flo rida: I'm listening to Outkast. I like listening to Young Jeezy, Wayne, Rick Ross. My boy Brisco-he's an up & coming artist.

Shannon: What are some of the obstacles or hurdles you had to overcome to make it in the record industry?

Flo rida: I mean just, actually thinking you so close and you're about to get a record deal and it doesn't happen. I remember making a trip out here to L.A. from Miami. I was working at a t-shirt company with my manager that I have now. Back then he always believed in me. Everyday he would listen to my demo at the job and be like "Man, you Hot." So I mean, I just got real tired and I was like I'm gonna go out to L.A. and get a record deal or do some acting. So I took a Greyhound trip--didn't know it was gonna be like 3 days. I got here and decided to go to the Beverly Center, cause I remember in a Brandy cd she was saying that was the hotspot and everything. So I went to there with a duffle bag, like 80 lbs., threw it on top of the bus bench. I go in the mall for about an hour. Come back-my bag gone. So I go into the gas station across the street and ask the clerk did he see my bag. He was like "Man! That was your bag? You caused a bomb threat." So that was something that really stuck out.

Shannon: Verizon Wirless users LOVE you. What do you want to say to people who watch "10 to Play" and are downloading your song?

Flo Rida: To all my fans that is downloading my music- I really thank y'all and love y'all for all the support. From day 1- I've been gettin alot of love from all the fans. And that's why I go on my website, whether it's my MySpace, and Facebook and get in touch with the fans.

****A special thanks to 4 Mill and Flo Rida's entire team for being so accomodating to myself & my camera crew.

The Most Brunch-able Spot in Venice

2009-04-02T18:15:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite ways to spend a Sunday morning is chillin' on Abbott Kinney in Venice, California. I can't get enough of this place. Abbott Kinney is like a delicate recipe:

1 part laid-back L.A.
2 cups of bohemian art enthusiast
a dash of granola
3 parts sunshine
1/2 tablespoon of curious on-looker

Living nearby in Marina del Rey, I love the fact that I can get there in 5-minutes flat AND stumble across some great food. And Last Sunday, a friend & I came across GJELINA. This simple, but elegantly designed restaurant is an oasis for your taste buds! The food was aromatic, fresh and flavorful. Every dish I saw come out of the kitchen looked divine. I settled on the scones, baked eggs & polenta; while my partner in crime ordered the lamb burger with harisa. Both of our meals were incredible - seasoned JUST so, and displayed splendidly.

I will DEFINITELY be going back to try a few more items on the menu, like the gourmet pizza and the crispy pork belly ocean trout.

And here's a little tip--if you go there after a night out, try the Bloody Beer. Kind of like a Bloody Mary, but with a bubbly zing to it.

The Best Massage in L.A.

2009-03-19T17:53:00.000-07:00

Who ever said working in Los Angeles is all glamour NEVER worked in Los Angeles. A normal day for me involves sitting behind a computer for 8 hours writing scripts, schlepping around video equipment on shoots, followed by some intense dance rehearsals at night with my burlesque group, Hells Belles. To say that my body takes a beating is an understatement. So occasionally, I'll pay a visit to a spa to get a massage. You know, re-center myself & align my chakras and shit ;-)

But as everyone knows, money is TIGHT right now, which means no trips to froo-froo spas in Beverly Hills. Instead, I came across a spot in Marina del Rey called MARICO MASSAGE (www.maricomassage.com).

It's a small and serene spa located on the corner of Maxella and Lincoln Blvd. When I walked inside, I was greeted by a good-looking and very helpful receptionist who was able to book me an appointment immediately. Just a half an hour later, I was seating in the lounge, being pampered with the best 20-minute foot & leg massage I've ever had in my life! Then, I was escorted into a private room for a 30-minute deep tissue Thai Massage--all for only $39 (plus tip). I walked out of Marico feeling like a brand new woman. All of my kinks and knots were miraculously gone, and my chakras humming happily.

I'd recommend this spot to anyone and everyone who's in need of some "Me Time." And in our economy, just about anybody can afford it. Hey--it's cheaper than two drinks at a Hollywood bar. AND you won't wake up with a hangover the next day. ENJOY!

Shannon Komai McClain in "Capturing Q"

2009-03-09T12:28:00.001-07:00

Click to Play

A short film that explores the last night together of 4 college friends. The film follows the lead character, "Q" played by Shannon Komai McClain, as she prepares to leave behind college and move on to the real world. Little does she know, at her final party of her senior year, she will meet a young man who will change her life forever.

CAST: Shannon Komai McClain, Robert, Buckley, Peter Meyer, Barsha Ray Fields, Kerry-Ann Ellington

CREW: LeAnna DeBaptiste-Hallman, Aqila Mayle, Andrew Meyers, Shannon Komai McClain, Cary Cremidas, Paul Wittenberger

Shannon Komai McClain @ Watchmen Premiere in Hollywood

2009-03-09T12:00:00.001-07:00

Click to Play

Shannon Komai McClain interviewing the stars of the movie "WATCHMEN" in Hollywood at Grauman's chinese theater.

Pretty, Funny Women was a HUGE Success!

2009-02-27T12:23:00.000-08:00

Wednesday, February 25th I faced a MAJOR fear. I stood up on-stage in front of 100 people I don't know and performed my first ever stand-up comedy routine!!!

The only way I can describe the feeling is EXHILARATING! I was there on stage to entertain an audience that paid good money (plus a 2-drink minimum ;-) to hear some good jokes & laugh! I started off my set with my a little impromptu dance to Beyonce's "Freakum Dress"--because nothing gets a crowd going like a girl in a leopard print dress shaking her thang!

I somehow made it through my entire set, and collapsed back into my seat on the best natural high I've felt in a long time. Later, I joined Jenny Yang on-stage to provide a little beat-box action for her rap about Boba, and realized I may have found my next career. I can see it up in lights now: M.C. LADY SHAY-SHAY

I have to give big ups to the rest of the Pretty, Funny Women in my class: Atsuko Okatsuka, Heidi Appe (my open mic buddy), Kristin Dolmetch, Leslie Dannon, Jana May, Ashley Phillips, Olivia May, Emily Jo Ohler, Kasia Syarek and fellow dancer, Janet Langer.

After the show was over, my friends & I headed across the street to this great new Cuban restaurant and enjoyed some mojitos & salsa dancing. It was the perfect end to a perfect evening.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JONNY Z!

A very special thanks to Lisa Sundstedt & Courtney Cronin for giving me the confidence and encouragement to use my voice & my story to make people laugh. I will never be able to fully express what an amazing gift you gave me.

College Intern Needed

2009-02-27T12:17:00.000-08:00

Hey Everybody!

The production company I work for (Go TV Networks) is looking for an intern ASAP. Here are the details:

GoTV Networks is currently seeking an office production intern. Intern will be responsible for assisting a creative team of writers, producers, and Executives. We are seeking a college sophomore, junior, or senior who is a go-getter, and loves the tv & film Industry. Must have knowledge of the Entertainment Industry, music and pop culture. This individual must be organized, responsible, on-time, and willing to learn a variety of tasks such as: logging interview tapes, organizing video content, collecting data for company reports, contributing creative input to projects, assisting on shoots, researching & compiling info.

Must be proficient in Word & Excel. Power Point and Final cut abilities are a definite plus! Student must be able to receive college credit. If you are interested, please submit a brief cover letter & resume to: smcclain@gotvnetworks.com

**** GoTV Networks is the first and largest mobile media network specializing in Internet & Mobile content. http://gotvnetworks.com/

Ain't Nothing Better Than a Pretty, Funny Woman!

2009-02-23T15:46:00.000-08:00

Hey Everybody!

I'm SO excited about my FIRST ever stand-up comedy show with "PRETTY, FUNNY WOMEN." Now, you're probably saying to yourself....Shannon Komai doing stand-up comedy??? What the?!? I know! I've always thought of myself as a dramatic actress--you know, Shakespeare, Mamet, Wilson. But how can I be a true ACTOR if I am not also a great comedian?

The fact is, I've always been DEATHLY afraid of comedy. After taking a few Improv courses in college, I realized that comedic timing was not something that came naturally to me. Give me an emotional, angst-ridden scene and I can deliver it with tears & gnashing of teeth. But hand me a few pages of funny dialogue and I freeze up like North Pole. So when I went to see friend of mine, Corey Podell, perform in a PRETTY, FUNNY WOMEN graduation showcase I KNEW that I had to take this class.

Lisa Sundstedt produces the PRETTY, FUNNY WOMEN shows, and also teaches the class. From DAY 1, we were up in front of the mic (and a documentary film crew), working on our material. There were 11 other gals in the class, each of us very different from one another, and all with a unique point of view. Over the past 2 months, all the ladies in the class have grown close--hitting up open mics in Los Angeles, and helping each other with jokes. And now it's all come down to this...............our graduation showcase at 8pm on Wednesday, February 25th at The Comedy Union.

This is quite a talented bunch of chicks, and you won't be believe they are all new comics. So come out and check out the show! And for more information on the documentary about PRETTY FUNNY WOMEN by Deirdre Timmons, visit: http://www.goldenechofilms.com/pretty-funny-women-production

Myss Moxie's Makeover Challenge

2009-02-18T13:48:00.000-08:00

So if you haven't heard of Myss Moxie-then you betta AX somebody!!! :-)

Well, I am blessed to work with this talented & beautiful lady at Go TV Networks. And yesterday, she approached me to help her with her Makeover Challenge: INCREASE THE "SESSY" IN 2 WEEKS OR LESS! Myss Moxie has recruited me to document & assist in her self-imposed sexy meets classy makeover challenge. And of course, being the fashionista that I am, I was happy to oblige. So for the next 2 weeks, I will be checking in with Myss Moxie to make sure she is increasing her Glam quotient via hair, make-up, clothes, and attitude.

To keep up on the moxie-est makeover you've ever seen, just visit www.MyssMoxie.com. And keep checking back here for more updates.

PEACE~

Shannon Komai

My Interview w/ The Jacksons

2009-02-17T11:50:00.000-08:00

When Go TV Networks told me I would be interviewing Tito & Jackie Jackson for Verizon's V CAST MUSIC, I was ecstatic! I've been a fan of the entire Jackson family for as long as I can remember. To have the opportunity to chat with them was like a dream come true.

After fighting the rain & traffic on the 405, I arrived at the Universal-Motown offices with my camera crew in tow. As we lit & prepped the room, I realized I had walked into a music-lovers gold mine. Old Motown platinum records hung from the walls. The tables were littered wth memorabalia signed by Johnny Cash, The Four Tops, and The Temptations. You could feel the history of music living within the walls of this tiny office.

Forty-five minutes after I'd arrived, in walked Jackie & Tito accompanied by their manager, Danny. Both of them look healthy & happy. Jackie was dressed casually, but classy in a mint green polo shirt with a dark blue jacket & blue jeans. Tito was sported a white collared shirt, black suit, and a black bowler hat with a red feather on the side. Being a hat-lover myself, I compliment Tito on his fashion choice.

"I'm tryin' to bring the bowler back, " Tito says.
"Tito is pimp daddy," Jackie teases him as Tito gives him a playful slap.

The two of them continue their brotherly banter throughout the entire interview. They have a short hand that comes from years of working & performing together. They tease & finish each other's sentences, and genuinely enjoy one another's company. Their familial bond reminds me of that of my mom's family--a large, close knit family who has stuck together through the ups & downs of life.

During our 30 minute interview, they told me about their upcoming reality show for A&E which will take them back home to Gary, Indiana. There, they will re-visit the places & people that helped catapult the Jackson 5 to stardom, like Guys & Gals, Peppermint Lounge, Mr. Lucky's--which was their first gig ever. They also talked about the possibility of a Jackson 5 reunion tour, and even hiring yours truly as their choreographer ;-)

To see a clip from The Jackson's interview, visit www.gotvnetworks.com/vcast.php

Grammy weekend 2009

2009-02-10T17:11:00.000-08:00

Another Grammys weekend has come & gone with more hoopla this year then ever before. I was lucky enough to cover all the festivities for Go TV Networks--the fashion, fun, (and apparently fights).

Friday night, I swung by the official Grammy Gift Lounge and ran into Boys II Men, Katy Perry, Joey Fatone & Jason Mraz. I missed interviewing Mr. Mraz by just a few minutes, although I was able to catch up with him later in the weekend. The Gift Lounge was chock full of freebies for the nominees & presenters, including CHI products--they have the BEST hair straightener on the market, Gunnar shades, Affliction clothing, and this AMAZING rain wear company called DAV. They hooked me up with some sweet & sassy red rainboots (which I definitely needed that day!) After most of the celebs had left the gifting lounge, I hung out with the guys from Rock Band 2 and LIPS (the Karaoke company). As I sang a rendition of Rihanna's UMBRELLA, who walks up but Faith Evans!!! She looked fabulous, and joined me in singing Rihanna's song which was oh-so appropriate on that rainy Los Angeles night!

Later that evening, I headed over to Timbaland's pre-Grammy party. It was still pouring, and I wondered if Timbaland had done a raindance for the Verizon & Blackberry Storm pre-Grammy bash at Boulevard 3. Actors, musicians, and socialites were there to support & party into the wee hours of the night: T.I., Keri Hilson, Rihanna, Twista, Omarion, Adrian Bailon, Chris Brown, and the Hilton's--to name a few.

After escaping the rain, I was able to step into the party for about 30 minutes and TRULY enjoy Rihanna's performance (before rushing back to the office to edit). I danced my ass off as she sang "Disturbia", "Please Don't Stop the Music" and my new fave, "Rehab".

Saturday brought another interview with Grammy nominee, Jazmine Sullivan. This Philly soul singer proved to be not just a musical talent, but also wise beyond her years. Eloquent & down-to-earth, she knows exactly who she is and what she wants.

Grammy Sunday was a complete whirlwind. The morning started off early with my own red carpet glam-preparation. Hey, I couldn't let the stars show me up COMPLETELY!

By 11am, I had joined press from all over the world who were setting up cameras & prepping their questions. From television, you can't tell that all of the red carpet madness happens underneath a huge white tent outside of the LA Convention Center. The energy inside of that tent is INTENSE. Everyone is yelling & clamoring for the best sound byte and shot of the stars. Melana Scantlin & I had a FANTASTIC position right next to the photogs, so we were able to get interviews from almost everyone. Anthony Hamilton and his wife, singer, Tarsha McMillian, patiently answered all of our questions before gliding down the carpet for their official Grammy photo. My friend & country-singer, Jamie Johnson stopped by for a quick visit, as did Busta Rhymes, Akon, and Colby Odonis. But my favorite interview of the night had to be Jason Mraz! He remembered that we missed each other in the Grammy Gift Lounge, so he came by and sang me a few lines from his hit song "I'm Yours". And well, as you can probably guess, after THAT--I was his ;-)

It was a fabulous weekend. The Grammys always are. It's the most exciting awards show of the entire year, and I'm already counting down the days to the 2010 Grammys.

He's Just Not That Into You Red Carpet Premiere

2009-02-04T13:27:00.001-08:00

On Monday night, GoTV Networks sent me out into the wilds of Hollywood to cover the red carpet premiere of Drew Barrymore's new film, "He's Just Not That Into You." All of the stars were there--Ben Affleck, Jen Aniston (I call her Jen ;-) Kevin Connolly, Jennifer Connolly, and many more. It was shear MANIA as fans lined up across the street from Grauman's Chinese Theater on Hollywood Blvd waiting to get a glimpse of their favorite actors. I was MOST excited about meeting and interviewing WILSON CRUZ. If you're like me and you were a fan of MTV's "My So-Called Life," then you'd understand my hysteria :-) Wilson played Angela Chases' best friend, Rickie. In person, Wilson is as beautiful and charming as I imagined him to be. It was a pleasure to chat with him about his character, Nathan and to get the REAL DEAL conversations a gay man has with his straight girlfriend about dating. Girls--if you aren't friends with a gay man, go out and find you one! They will give you better relationship advice than your mama, your sister, or your best girlfriend.

Now, I still haven't seen the film, but the book, written by Sex and the City scribes Greg Behrendt & Liz Tuccillo--is phenomenal! This is a book that every single gal should read! If you take one part "Men are From Mars, Women are From Venus," add a splash of Cosmopolitan, and a twist of Christian Louboutin, you have "He's Just Not That Into You."

When you boil it all down, the book and the film are both about the different ways men & women communicate. Men are simple & straight forward. They SHOW you what they want. If they don't want you. They won't call. Women, on the other hand, analyze EVERYTHING--facial expressions, word choices, the clothes a guy wears on a date. Women see what they want to see. We intellectualize a guy's behavior to the point that we are missing what's staring us in the face! If we just learned that men send very clear messages--then we would save ourselves alot of time and heartache.

And to all my single ladies out there, here's a piece of advice:

If a guy you meet out at a bar tells you he has a girlfriend whom he wants to break up with, then takes you home and bangs your back out. Then he calls you a week later and tells you he wants to take you to Hawaii, but he STILL hasn't broken up with his girlfriend. He's into your pussy, but HE'S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU!

A New Day

2009-01-20T19:58:00.000-08:00

What a whirlwind Inauguration Day! Yes, it was colder than a polar bear's ass. Yes, there were endless lines & street vendors selling more useless things than late night infomercials. And yes, I had to travel by plane, train, and automobile to get there. But it was ALL worth it!

I've never seen SO MANY people from different backgrounds all in the same place unified in celebration. With the exception of a few random drama queens, everyone was happy to help give a stranger directions, hold a door, or give an interview to a peppy indie documentary maker ;-)

I met so many intriguing people in D.C. I spoke with some college coeds from Massachusetts; and hung out in line with a Rabbi from L.A. I chatted with a woman from Trinidad who voted for the first time in 2008 as an American citizen. I also caught up with kids who were Barack supporters, although at least 10 years away from casting a ballot themselves. Everyone had a story. And no matter what their race or age, each and every person I interviewed was hopeful about our country's future. EVERYONE I spoke to is ready for change. And even more importantly, I discovered that Americans realize that all of us are responsible for making that change happen.

I'm so excited to share this documentary with you! Keep checking back over the next few days for sneak peak clips from my trip to the Capitol.

Yes we Can and YES WE DID!

Celebrating Martin Luther King Day

2009-01-19T10:32:00.000-08:00

I awoke this morning at 8am at my sister Angela's home outside of Philadelphia. My twin 13 year-old nephews, my younger sister, Airin and my brother-in-law, Omar were all awake. They sat in front of the tv transfixed by the film "Boycott" starring Jeffrey Wright (my all-time favorite actor) playing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. I was so happy to see my nephews learning about the great men who worked & sacrificed for the privileges that they enjoy today.

Right now, I'm keeping up with the events in D.C.--watching Soledad O'Brien and Don Lemon speaking with black Americans who've been apart of the civil rights movement. Juanita Abernathy was one of them. She is the widow of Rev. Ralph Abernathy (a close associate of MLK and a notable civil rights leader). Mrs. Abernathy spoke about the women who supported their husbands and the movement, not for themselves, but for future generations like us.

Rev. Abernathy was only 29 years old and Dr. King was a mere 26 years of age when they began organizing the movement. And for the first time since the 1970's, we've seen young people standing up and making their voices heard too! It's a wonderful time in our history. I'm so excited and proud to be here right now.

Airin and I will be leaving for D.C. at Midnight tonight. We'll be traveling with our D.P., Daniel Mays and his son. They will be recording our entire trip to the Capitol and our experiences while we're there.

Stay tuned for more updates!

I feel so full of emotion.

Barack Obama's Inauguration In Black & White

2009-01-09T10:05:00.000-08:00

I am SO excited for the Inauguration of Barack Obama! The night he was elected & gave that evocative speech, I knew I had to be there to see him sworn in. His election is such a huge step for our country! Old wounds will finally be healed. And this sends a message to the rest of the world that America is addressing our issues one at a time.

So, my sister, Airin and I have decided to, not only make the trek down to Washington D.C. from Philly, but we're also going to make a documentary about the events. I think as mixed-race children, my sister & I have an inside perspective on what this means to ALL Americans, black, white & in-between. A few close friends who are also filmmakers will be traveling with us to cover this momentous event.

Our documentary is tentatively being called "Erasing the Color Line: the Inauguration in Black & White."

Stay tuned here for blogs that I'll be posting here, as well as video clips from the documentary.

Yes WE Can!

If Your Looking for the HOTTEST Burlesque in Los Angeles....

2009-01-05T19:21:00.001-08:00

....you've found the RIGHT blog!

I fell in love with burlesque a few years ago after watching the beautiful & talented Carolina Cerisola perform at 40 Deuce.

I've been dancing for well over 20 years--everything from salsa, jazz & hip-hop, to ballet & belly dancing--but never had I seen such a mixture of sensual moves and sheer stage presence! Carolina inspired ME to try this old school form of entertainment, and I was INSTANTLY hooked. Lucky for me, 40 Deuce & Carolina were offering a burlesque workshop to teach everyday gals AND experienced dancers like myself how to shake, shimmy, and entice CABARET-style.

Since that amazing class, I've gone on to form my own burlesque show called "Behind Closed Doors" w/ my co-artistic director, Erica Leary. And later, I joined the Hells Belles dancers as their 5th and newest member. With the Hells Belles, I continue to explore different genres of burlesque dance, from the classic jazz infused Nina Simone numbers, to rock 'n roll classics from Jimi Hendrix. My past dance training has definitely helped. But the showmanship it takes to perform a sexy striptease alone on-stage is something totally different.

In 2008, I began teaching my own burlesque workshop to women of all shapes, sizes, and ages. I love seeing the look on the faces of my students as they discover their inner sex kitten. Burlesque dancing gives women permission to be feminine & sexual. To get in touch with the parts of our womanhood we don't show while working in an office, or while running after the kids. It reminds us girls that we SHOULD be living fully in our bodies--no matter what its current size.

If you're looking for one-on-one instruction, or a fun workshop for your bachelorette party, just shoot me an email and we will tailor an experience that's perfect for you!

Check out this article from the L.A.. Times

2008-12-24T12:29:00.000-08:00

It's time to recognize!

ENTERTAINMENT

NAACP gives a stern warning to TV

By Greg Braxton
December 19, 2008

On the heels of issuing a critical report about Hollywood's minority hiring, the president of the National Assn. for the Advancement of Colored People threatened the entertainment industry Thursday with unspecified political actions if it did not increase diversity.

"At a time when the country is excited about the election of the first African American president in U.S. history," said Benjamin Todd Jealous, who was appointed in May to head the civil rights organization, "it is unthinkable that minorities would be so grossly underrepresented on broadcast television."

The statement came shortly after the organization's Hollywood bureau released a 40-page report called "Out of Focus, Out of Sync -- Take 4" that found blacks and other minorities continue to be underrepresented in "nearly every aspect of the television and film businesses."

Though he declined to be specific, Jealous said the organization "could bring the hammer down," including "shaming the industry," if it does not improve diversity.

The report marks some of the most pointed criticism of the industry by the civil rights organization and signals a return to the issue for the group, which has been inconsistent in recent years in keeping tabs on networks' efforts to embrace multiculturalism. Then-NAACP President Kweisi Mfume first lashed out at the networks in 1999, pointing out that none of the 26 new comedies and pilots that season featured a minority lead.

Today, only three network series -- CBS' "CSI: Crime Scene Investigation" and "The Unit" and ABC's "Ugly Betty" -- have minorities in leading roles.

greg.braxton@latimes.com

Ryan Seacrest's Mama's Boys--Is Mrs.B Really Racist?

2008-12-22T12:56:00.000-08:00

Last week, I tuned in to NBC to check out Ryan Seacrest's new show, "Momma's Boys," and I was pleasantly surprised to see them jump RIGHT into the fray with the opinionated Mrs. Bojanowski.

You may be shocked to hear me say this, but I was THRILLED they chose Mrs. B to be apart of the show. Let's face it--as backwards & ignorant as Mrs. B is--there are SOOOOOO many mother's out there (white & black) who feel the same way. But most people are not dumb enough to spew their racist thoughts on National TV and not expect a backlash.

As a multi-racial woman, I've been friends with many Caucasian people who've said, "My parents would KILL me if I dated a black person." So obviously, many conversations have taken place within these white households passing on such ideals. And perhaps this is the reason why, when these white kids are away from their parents' watchful eyes & off at college, the FIRST person they are macking on is black. We've all seen the girls waiting outside of the football & basketball player's locker rooms after games. The majority of those athletes are black. And the majority of the groupies are white. Coincidence? I think not. Do I blame them. Of course not! These black men are not only beautiful, chiseled specimens, but also talented and focused individuals. What women (black, white, or yellow) WOULDN'T be attracted to that?

I also remember being a kid and having my white friends "forget" that I am part black and say some pretty racist comments, that they no doubt heard at home. But rather than exploding like Momma's Boys contestant, Vita Alexander, I calmly explained to my friends how their statements could be taken as ignorant & bigotted. I opened up the dialogue so that they could see things from a different perspective--from someone who's grown up in both the white and the black cultures.

Back to "Momma's Boys"--I don't blame Mrs. B for her opinions. We all have our preferences of who & what we are attracted to. But she just needs to realize her preferences may not be shared by her son. And REALLY-how could she possibly say minority women (Asian, Jewish, etc.) are not right for her son, when she herself is a minority!

My advice for anyone who's going through a similar situation comes from my own personal experience. For years, I had to put up with ignorant comments my ex-boyfriend's mother used to say about me. It is never fun to have someone try to make you feel like you are beneath them because of the color of your skin. But knowing that you truly ARE a beautiful, intelligent person worthy of love will allow you to treat that individual with sympathy rather than anger. When it all boils down to it, THEY are the one with the issue, not you!

I FINALLY CRIED.....

2008-11-06T10:55:00.000-08:00

It's November 6th. Senator Barack Obama was elected our 44th President a day and a half ago, and this morning, I FINALLY cried.

I cried for all of those people who fought so long and hard for this day to happen.

I cried for those that gave their lives in the hopes that this day would one day come.

I cried for my great, great, great, great grandmother Easter Jones, who survived the Middle Passage. Little Easter, who was separated from her entire family (excpet her brother Frank), and lived as a slave in the South.

I cried for my 87 year-old grandmother, who was born in South Carolina. This beautiful black Queen who has seen and heard and felt things I can't imagine.

I cried for my mother, who married a white man, and had to endure SO much raising her 3 little mixed daughters.

I cried for my nephews who, as young black men, now KNOW they too can be anything.

I cried for all of the people who voted for the first time.

I cried for all of the white, latin, asian, and indian people who could see that Obama is a servent for change and unification.

And I cried because I'm so happy our Country has taken this step forward. We will NEVER be the same!

Rings, Wedding Bells, and Thoughts on Singledom....

2008-10-17T10:25:00.000-07:00

We've been referred to as the "Sex in the City Generaton." I'm talking about young women in their late-20's to early-30's who are single, successful, and DOIN' the damn thing!

We are unmarried & independant. We've been out in the working world for a few years. We're advancing and making a decent salary. We are movers and shakers. We effortlessly transition from the boardroom to the nightclub. We make our own money and enjoy spending it. We like the occasional Happy Hour cocktail at the upscale lounge. As we silmultaneously sip a vodka martini, we are skillfully passing our business card to the CEO who may offer that new position we've been looking for.

We love hanging with our girlfriends. We know that when our well-dressed group walks into a room, EVERYONE takes notice. Most of our girls are like us--they live in a major metropolitan city like New York, Los Angeles, Miami, or Chicago. They own their own home or condo, have a 401K in place, as well as an exciting plan for the next "Girls Get-Away" to some tropical locale. We are young, beautiful, self-sufficient and PISSED!

Why are we so angry? Because with all the money, titles, and success, inside we still yearn for the simplest thing--true LOVE--and we are NOT finding it. It seems that our male, Generation-Y counterparts are not quite as ambitious. Many of them seem to be content making mediocre money, playing video games, smoking weed, and having an endless string of meaningless relationships. These fellas don't want the responsibility of cleaning their apartment, so don't even suggest the idea of taking care of a family in the near future.

Don't get me wrong, I adore a Guy's guy. I'm not looking for a man who spends more time than me in the mirror flat ironing his hair! But--back me up here ladies--we're looking for a guy who is strong, but sensitive. Self-assured, yet selfLESS. He recognizes the value in a deep relationship with a fabulous woman like us! He knows when he has found a prize--a woman who is independant, but still needs a man to lean on emotionally & physically. We need a guy who sees the beauty in investing in a future with a woman who is driven, devoted, and caring. A guy who is aware that there IS a world outside of the four walls of his apartment, or the sports bar down the street. It's a world that involves teaching by example, giving back not just to his family, but to the community.

So Gentlemen--stop allowing your fear of failure to prevent you from experiencing a deep and meaningful relationship. Instead, committ yourself to listening, communicating, and growing. Come on! Women are human beings. We're not THAT scary.

In the words of Beyonce Knowles:
"Cuz you had your turn, but now you gonna learn, what it really feels to miss me. If you liked it then you should have put a ring on it!"

Ricky Williams Hates Me

2008-10-12T12:05:00.000-07:00

Yes, I am a chic who plays Fantasy Football. Not because I'm an extreme sports fan. I just like talking SMACK!

Sure, I was a cheerleader in high school, and on the dance team in college, but that had little, if anything, to do with my love for Sports. It was more about the cute uniforms and the chance to dance in front of a packed gymnasium during half-time.

So-how did I get pulled into this world of FANTASY FOOTBALL? My boyfriend, of course. An ex-college football player, the man is OBSESSED with football. And for five months out of the year, I lose him-to Fantasy land.

So, me being the smart woman that I am, I decided to get involved. That competitive fire inside of me was re-lit in the hopes of beating my boyfriend at his own game & talking some serious smack to all the guys in my Fantasy League. But unfortunately, it's not to be. Because Ricky Williams hates me. That's the only explanation for why last week, when I started Ricky in my Fantasy line-up, he got me--maybe 5 points. And this week, he sits on my bench with 10 points at the start of the 4th quarter. Ricky, how are you gonna do me like that?

And, let's be honest-is there really ANY way for me to win when I had the 8th draft pick on a team of 16? God, if you can hear me-HELP!