Friends (and an update, of course)...

I have been so incredibly busy that I haven't been around... I apologize! For those of you that still take the time to keep my blog in your reading list, here is an update... stay with me! ;)

I started teaching again... as you already know (I believe I mentioned this is my last post), and since then, things have been SUPER busy! Two of my good friends are getting married, one in 4 months, the other in 8, plus we have another Engagement in the family without a set date, but aiming for the end of 2011... very exciting.

As if all of that wasn't enough, my cousin, who is now living in California, gave birth to her first child today. A daughter by the name of Isabella :) All is good in the world...

Turandot opens on the 13th of November, and rehearsals for that show are always nuts. It was the first show I worked in with FGO back in 2004... and I think it is safe to say that we pretty much forgot how hectic and involved the show is. The ultimate outcome, however, is gorgeous, and I encourage everyone to check it out!

I had one audition a little while back which did not turn out an offer, but I am sure there will be more... I am trying not to stress it. What's meant to be will be :) I will just keep doing my thing until it does...

I have had so many id

eas for different posts, lately... But I haven't had ANY time to sit and produce anything... so, here I finally am with something I thought about a few weeks back...

It all started when my Hubby and I had a Friday night off, and decided to spend it relaxing, and maybe going out for some dinner. I had been dying to try this place "Lime" which I had heard was really good. We love Mexican places like that, so we thought we'd check it out. I decided to call another couple we hang out with and see if they would like to join us, especially since my friend really enjoys Mexican food, and I figured she would want to give it a try. I get them on the phone, and her Fiance (my other friend) starts saying that they are doing stuff, etc, but that he would let m

e know. A few minutes later, he calls me back and is acting all weird... "I don't know if we can go..." and "I'll let you know, but I don't know"... etc. He sounded SO weird, like he wasn't really acting like himself... so I just came out and said, "Listen, you are not obligated to go out with us... we like hanging out with you guys, which is why we invite you, but if you have stuff to do we will not be offended! Honestly, but don't give me this BS... either you want to/can go or you don't/can't". So we hung up, and a few minutes later his fiance called, saying that what he meant was that they were doing stuff and even though they wanted to go, would have to pass." I, of course, told her it was fine! I really meant it too... I am not one of those people tha

t don't go to someone's event cause they didn't come to mine, or that gets offended if you don't want to come, or can't make it... honestly, it's not that serious! In the end, they did finish up everything, and met us over at Lime, and it was cool... true friends don't hold grudges for silly things like that.

My point is... when you really want to be someone's friend, you are understanding and open to them, no matt

er what. It is a choice we make. We have many opportunities every day to make choices. The fact that he was being so wishy-washy with me was so weird, and I honestly didn't like that! Friends should be honest to each other... Honestly! I have friends who I feel I can truly say what is on my mind to... and if they get a little upset, I know they'll eventually get over it, and we'll keep being friends... but at least they know how I feel! I shouldn't have to go behind their backs (or them going behind mine) talking trash, and shoving my opinion in people's faces. It is especially hurtful when you have to hear from your own family member

s that people you consider are your lifelong friends are talking bad about you... The fact of the matter is, opinions are like assholes... (I am sure you know where I'm going with this). Everyone does what they want with their life... again, we have choices. I choose to try and live positively. I have had enough negativity in my life for a long time now... and I just rather not stress. I rather be a happy person, for me, and for the people who choose to be around me. I am who I am, and I hope people accept me for me... the good and the bad.

Happy Blogging :)

The Yellow Love Bird

In the school where I am teaching (yes, I got a new job, but that's another story which I'll write an update on later), there is a Building that has an aviary... it's really nice cause on each side of the hallway, there are these huge cages. There are 3 in total... 2 on one side, and 1 on the other. Every day, when I pass by this area, I always admire the beautiful birds, and listen to them chirp. I couldn't help but notice this gorgeous, bright yellow, love bird. You can't help but notice this one, because it is the only one of it's kind among all the other, more standard, love birds. You know, the green ones with the red face, neck and chest. Not that those love birds are in any way inferior to t

he yellow one... This Yellow one merely stands out cause it's, really, the only one that looks like this.

Sometimes, I walk by, and this Yellow Love Bird is perched on a branch in the very center of the cage, surrounded by some of the other birds... but sometimes, it is off in a corner, alone. Ignored. It is almost as if the other birds are offended by the fact that this bird is different, and naturally calls so much attention to itself. Loved by some, hated by others. I am sure that the other birds look at it from afar and talk bad about it, in their little birdy chirps... yet sometimes, they can't stop bragging about how they know it, and are it's BFF...

Isn't it funny how we humans are the same? After all, our Human Nature is pretty animalistic. We separate ourse

lves from the animals and rise above by having vocabulary, wearing clothing, etc... but in the end, we are all animals. Sometimes, a "Yellow Love Bird" comes around... we are either intrigued by the presence of this creature, and are drawn towards it. We want to be it's BFF. But sometimes, or eventually, we are threatened, and offended by it... by all the attention it gets. It's only because of issues that we have with ourselves, deep down inside, we wish we were that beautiful, bright yellow, bird, with all it's charm, grace and wonderful qualities. We are so caught up with wanting to be that bird, and have what that bird has, that we do not realize that we are great the way we are. Instead, we spend all our time bitching and complaining about what the bird did or didn't do, or about how the bird purposely draws attention

to itself, and how terrible the bird is (for whatever reasons we make up). But are they really that terrible? Or is it the low self-esteem that some have inside getting the best of them?

Sometimes, I feel like that Yellow Love Bird... I am not perfect, but neither is it. It is just different, in it's own way... and sometimes, people can't accept different... especially when it interferes with their ideas about themselves. I am different the way we all are, and I can only be me.

Happy Blogging! :)

LOVE is in the air! :)

While I was house-sitting for my Friends', and they were on their Parisian Holiday, one of my Best Friend's, Alex, proposed to his long-time, live-in, Girlfriend, Michelle. I cannot help but be so thrilled for them! It was only a matter of time before it happened... but I am just so happy for them, I cannot even put it into words! They are such wonderful people, and it makes me SO happy to see others happy... I guess when one is happy, they are happy for all those around them who are happy as well ;)

I am extra excited, and thrilled, to be helping my Best Friend (who was the Maid of Honor in our Wedding) plan her nuptials, which will be taking place December 2011... I am soo excited for her too! And to think that around the time of our Wedding (of which we'll be celebrating our 2 year Anniversary this January) she said she was never getting married... oh, how things change ;) The plans are in full swing, and she is really happy, which is the most important thing :)

We finally left Alex and Michelle's, after staying a little longer with them, and came over to my Mom's to house/dog sit for her and my Grandparents' while they are at the Beach for the week... We packed our things (once again - and hopefully the last time before getting back into our own house), and headed to Miami Springs... but, next month, there is FINALLY a deposition set for the case with our Insurance regarding the fixing of our home... HOPEFULLY things will get moving soon. We miss our little house, very much, and are definitely due for some privacy...

With that said, we planned a last minute getaway with some friends on the 13th thru the 16th. We will be going on a Bahamian Cruise on Royal Caribbean, and do we need it! I didn't think it was going to be possible, cause we are a bit tight on money, but the Hubby insisted, so it was planned. It's actually a bit funny... it started out with just our friends Jose and Barbie, and now it's 12 adults and 1 baby! We are definitely going to have a great time, though... I have never been to the Bahamas, and my only other time Cruising was for our Honeymoon when we sailed the Mediterranean. I am really looking forward to it, to say the least...

Despite all the craziness, moving here and moving there, these recent weekends, the the upcoming ones, have been pretty fun... This past Sunday, we boarded our friend's boat, and headed to the Sand Bar... we had a blast, and I definitely had TOO MUCH to drink... Let's just leave it at that ;)

This Sunday, we'll be Tailgating at the Marlins vs. Cardinals game... this marks another "First" for me, since I have NEVER tailgated (I don't know why... it's just never happened...) So it should be fun... I love going to watch the ballgame... I don't know what it is, I just love it! And of course, it's extra fun when you go with fun people who like to have a good time ;)

Anyway, lots of updates, and lots of love, including for my new iPhone 4... yes, it's the best, and no, rumors about dropped calls and such are not true... I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE IT!!! But I'll leave it at that, because I wouldn't want any HATERS, like this guy, out there to think I'm apple obsessed, and start running their mouths... ahem. So, for now, I bid you adieu...

Happy Blogging!

House/Puppy Sitting and Updates

As of July 16th, the Hubby and I are on House/Puppy Sitting Duty for our Friends Alex and Michelle while they are in France. It's a nice change from being at my in-laws for the past 5 months due to mold issues in our home. It's definitely different than being over there where my Mother in Law is almost always home taking care of our Nephew. I find myself being alone once in a while, just me and the dogs... and it's kind of nice. Reminds me of when we used to be in our own place.

Our friends' bed sure is comfy, though... that is one thing I really must say I look forward to. We have a queen bed of our own, and have been sleeping in a full since February... so upgrading to a super soft KING bed is definitely fantastic. I have been sleeping sooooooo well, I can't even begin to elaborate, for no words would be enough... I really do love our current sleeping arrangement!

On another note, I officially started my own personal Business with Mary Kay last week, and have my first Pampering Session tonight with a couple of my cousins. Should be fun! I need the practice... Honestly, I have to say that I love the Mary Kay products... they have changes so much since the last time I remember trying them, and honestly, the new face of Mary Kay kicks all the skin care competition out of the water... not to mention that their products really are good! So many women in America SWEAR by them! And all of those women have beautiful skin... It is NEVER too late, nor too EARLY, to start an anti-aging regimen. They even have a ling for Teenagers AND for men! It's fantastic. If you want more info, you can go ahead and e-mail me at mruiz@marykay.com! I would be glad to set up a pampering session for you and 3 friends (did I mention you get a free gift if you do??) or maybe a pedicure party?? ;) Martinis and Makeovers? Whatever tickles your fancy!! Can you tell I'm excited?? Not to mention I have this huge goal to do 30 faces in 30 d

ays!!! It's going to be a lot of work, but I know I will do it!

So I had an audition this past weekend in St. Augustine with First Coast Opera. Looked like a very promising one... but we shall see! Apparently, if I get hired, I'll be in St. Augustine the last 3 weeks in October... It will all depend on what the offer is, but I think I should be cool with that ;) I also have an audition on August 28th in Naples, Fl. I'll be heading up there with a good friend of mine, Miguel Llerena. Should be fun!

Until next time!

Happy Blogging! :)

"Die Zauberflöte" & Opera Resources

So for the past month, or so, I have been working with the Riuniti Opera and the Alhambra Orchestra (once again) on a Production of Die Zauberflöte. This is, officially, my 3rd time performing the role of the "Queen of the Night" in Mozart's fantastically funny yet "deep" creation. Click here for more info about this Opera from Wikipedia.

Finally, today, is the first (of two) performance of thi

s show. We will be performing a short version of the Opera at the University of Miami's Gusman Hall for a bunch of kids at Music Camps. It's going to be fun, and honestly (most of all) it'll be good to see our hard work pay off!

Sunday is the second, and final, performance. We will be performaning at Temple Beth Am in Pinecrest, and yes, this will be the full show (with the exception of a cut or two). If you are my Facebook friend, you can see that I posted some info directly onto my page... if you're not my FB friend, you can go ahead and add me! My FB badge is on the right column ;)

I wanted to add the following...

Nowadays, being an Opera singer has gotten SO much easier than it was for the great singers of the past... we have all sorts of online and technological resources... it's just crazy how things have evolved! For example, on iTunes, if you visit the iTunes store and search for "Opera" in

the Podcast section, you can find all s

orts of goodies! For example, there are FREE (yes, I said FREE) podcasts from such companies as the Washington National Opera in D.C. and Seattle Opera. There is the "premieropera's podcast" which features greats from the past as well as today! The possibilities are endless! Check out this screen shot of the iTunes store featuring some of the endless options:

This is, really, only the beginning... there are sites like YAP Tracker, Aria-Database and so much more (but we'll got into all of that some other time)! ;) It truly makes our lives so much easier! Just think... no more sitting in the libr

ary for hours looking through those old, moldy, translation books... just look it up! Most of the time, you'll find what you're looking for ;)

Happy Blogging!

Help Support a Wonderful Cause

If you are feeling generous... please consider sponsoring my friend's classroom.

She is an Elementary School Teacher who needs a class library, and is trying to get an overhead projector as well. These items are necessary in helping the children do well on the FCAT, which has become a really big deal in the state of Florida...

Please click here and helo make a difference by Adopting a Classroom.

Happy Blogging! :)

Lucky

I realize, more and more everyday, how lucky I am to have been blessed with my talent to sing, and have a real career, not just a job. I know it seems a bit frivolous, singing for a living, but honestly, why not? I love what I do... and it is not as easy as it seems. Nothing worth having is easy to come by... and that is why I work harder and harder everyday to get where I need to be.

So many people go day in day out through their lives waking up driving to some place, faking it all day just to

get a paycheck, and then going home to repeat it the next day... Even though my career choice hasn't always been easy, I truly love what I do... I love being part of something like the Opera world.

I am also so happy to have found someone like my Husband who supports me beyond anything. I cannot even count how many times I have been ready to give up my voice lessons and singing because it was getting too hard or too expensive... but he has never allowed me to do give up! He knows how important it is to have a dream and make it a reality... especially since almost 2 years ago, he and his friend started a business with nothing... no loans, no advice, no help... just a few contacts and through the use of their computers and phones (and our 2nd bedroom). Now, they have their own warehouse with their own inventory, and are doing pretty well for themselves! I am so proud of them...

If you have a dream, don't be stupid and follow it! Do what you have to do to make it a reality... don't get caught up in junk and stupidities... reach for your dreams, no matter how far fetched they may seem... and never, NEVER, let anyone weigh you down!

Happy Blogging! :)

Nice Quote...

I saw this on a FB friend's page from a Quote Generator, and had to share... enjoy!

"What most people need to learn in life is how to love people and use things instead of using people and loving things. (Anonymous)"

Happy Blogging! :)

Our Big Fat Cuban 4th of July

Have you ever had a day or time when you felt you were part of a movie? I definitely did this 4th of July, spending it with friends at the Beach... It was fun and truly interesting ;)

We started planning towards going to the Keys this weekend to celebrate the 4th... but ended up just heading to our Friend's condo in the Ramada Marco Polo. He has a really nice studio apartment on the beach. We arrived before 10 in the morning to avoid parking issues. We brought up the food, and coolers stuffed with beers and sodas, and got settled before heading down to the beach. The water was nice, not too hot, not too cold, and the Sun was out most of the time (My Hubby and I have the tans to prove it). We definitely had to take advantage, because the bad weather was definitely coming, and could not be avoided. We were out there a while, catching some rays, and swimming around, before finally packing up just in time to seek shelter from the big storm that was coming. We got upstairs, showered and had some dinner, followed by a game of Beer Pong (my first time playing!) and then some fireworks, courtesy of Alex, Jose and Adrian. They were great! All and all, a great day...

Still, I couldn't help but notice how several moments in the day strangely resembled the hilarious movie, "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" (one of my favorite movies of all time)... from Jose's Mom and his girlfriend's parents bringing "Boliche" and Turkey to the beach, to cramming about 18 people into a small studio apartment, to how loud we were all together... It was so funny! Jose's mom even reminded me of the Mother in the movie... telling people when to shower, how to prepare the food, and when to eat... it was a trip! We had a great time, and I definitely spent the day laughing, which is always good ;)

Of course it's always nice to celebrate something so important as the Independence of our GREAT country! It is because of this that we are able to speak our minds, and even write on our own blogs! No one can tell us what, or what not, to say or how to dress... and aside from laws which help our society function, we are FREE! Gotta love America!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend with Family & Friends!

Happy Blogging! :)

On a lighter note... PANDORA!!!!!

Ok, so I got yet ANOTHER pandora charm from my Hubby (he's the best)... It's a cupcake, because of my obsession with baking and decorating cupcakes... I attached a picture of it... so cute!

Sometimes, I sit back and I realize... I have soo much to be thankful for... a wonderful Family which grew on 1/24/09 when I married my Sweetheart, awesome friends... I am too BLESSED to be STRESSED!!!

Happy Blogging! :)

Stupid People

**RANT WARNING - TO THE TUNE OF "It's my party and I cry if I want to"**

It's my blog, and I rant if I want to!!!!!!!!!!!!

Sometimes, I just wish that some people would just S*T*F*U*!!!!! Seriously. My patience is running very thin. It amazes me to see some people act so foolishly, running their mouths about everything, thinking they are experts on everything and anything ever invented, when they know nothing about the other person, or what their day to day life entails. It amazes me even more to see how some people think the world revolves around them and that everything that is going on around them is linked to their lives... I will never understand some of these people!

Anyone who really knows me KNOWS that I am constantly going out of my way for the people I care about. I have stayed up until 4 in the morning working on projects for friends and family, driving across town to pick people up from the airport... hell, I go as far as to inconvenience myself to make others happy. I don't do it for any personal gain. I don't feel that I need to prove this to anyone, but once in a while, even if it's for my own benefit, I remind myself that this is how I've always been... I don't expect people who do not take the time to know who I really am to understand any of this - especially when most of what they do in their lives is for their own personal gain. Hence why these people should all flock together, using each other, and spitting each other out.

I am very lucky because I may not have a million friends, but the few that I have are GOOD friends, who are there for me. I have no complaints! I know that if I need something, I have at least 4-5 people ready to jump to my aid... some of them who I haven't known very long at all, but who have taken an interest in really getting to know me... I am truly blessed.

Ok... rant over. The end.

Happy Blogging! :)

Why Cuba did not participate in the World Cup 2010 (Hilarious!)

I was checking up on recent postings from my blog-roll, when I noticed that my friend Ms. Sunshine of Why Women Should Love Sports posted this video... This is absolutely HILARIOUS!!! Granted, not everyone that views this blog will understand... and I do apologize for that... but I am sure you will at least find some humor in it ;) Enjoy!

Happy Blogging! :)

"How-To" Anything!

While browsing around the World Wide Web, I found some videos that I thought were interested, and I wanted to share...

To start off, I found this YouTube Channel... Yoyomax12! She teaches, step by step, how to make all sorts of desserts. As the title to her YouTube channel states, "Cookind and Baking and Crafting OH MY!". She also demonstrates techniques to be used with creating cupcakes from "Hello, Cupcake!" and "What's new, Cupcake?" (Truth be told, "Hello, Cupcake!" was the book that actually got me into baking and decorating cupcakes...).

There are also a few postings with the actual authors of the two books... you can watch them create yellow rubber-duck cupcakes by clicking here. They just make it look so easy!!

All of this just goes to show that the internet has so much to offer... Don't know how to do something, or want to see someone else demonstrate... just look it up! :) It's fantastic! I remember the first few times I used a piping bag, I wanted to see someone else (a professional) do it, so I went to YouTube, and found my answer!

Even companies like Wilton offer blogs and videos for people to create all sorts of goodies at home...

I need to pick up a copy of "What's New, Cupcake?" and try out some of those projects...

Happy Blogging! :)

Pandora CRAZY!

Ok, so many of you might remember this post, when my Hubby got me my first Pandora bracelet (which I had wanted so, SO bad) for my birthday, along with my first 3 charms...

Well, it has been a month since then (give or take a day) and I am pleased to announce that my bracelet is growing!!! I have since added the following charms:

This little purse was a gift

And I got this one for myself, to celebrate the fact that Jared now carries the charms in the store!!!! I just had to :)

Just thought I'd share my excitement :) I highly recommend these bracelets and charms! And, of course, the entire line of pandora jewelry is very cute...

Happy Blogging! :)

I would like to introduce you to...

Mr & Mrs P! They are friends of mine, a young, newlywed couple, who have decided to start their own blog about cooking, gardening, home decor, and party planning. Their blog is very new, (probably about a week or so old) with only a handful of postings, but it is very promising! I urge you to follow them as they add new recipes and posts... they will be posting on a very regular basis!

Click here to check them out!

Happy Blogging! :)

Cupcake Wars

So I finally caught one episode of the show... I had been reminded by a few people that I know to watch it, but somehow I missed last weeks, and finally caught the midnight showing of today's show...

I have to say that I was a bit torn as I watched. A local Bakery, Cupcakes Nouveau were competing, along with a Vegan Cupcake baker, and two other traditional cupcake creators. I honestly felt that what the Miami girls brought to the table was really great, and was disappointed to see them eliminated after the 2nd round, despite all the creativity and cuteness they brought to the table. I haven't personally tried their cupcakes, but I have heard wonderful things about them. There was actually a review posted about them (click here to view it) on my favorite cupcake blog, Cupcakes Take The Cake... but unfortunately, the Vegan girl ended up winning the prize. Her display was fantastic, I must say, and it is definitely a wonderful opportunity for her, especially since she has only been baking professionally for 3 months, but I honestly don't know how I feel about Vegan Cupcakes. I guess I'll have to try some out for myself someday and see.

Anyway, if you like cupcakes, and you want to check out the show, it is airing on Tuesday nights at 9pm on the Food Network. Hopefully, I'll be able to watch it at it's normal time next time around ;)

Happy Blogging! :)

The Haitian Diva's "Aloha" Party

I wanted to take a moment to share some photos from a party we put together for a good friend of ours... It fell upon her closest friends, Alex, Michelle and I, to throw a good send off for The Haitian Diva, Jouvanca. She will be leaving us for a journey across the country to San Jose, California to sing with Opera San Jose this 2010-2011 Season in the roles of "Tosca" in Tosca, "Anna Karenina" in Anna Karenina and "Mimi" in the opera La Bohe

What better way to send off our friend than to say "Aloha", since it does mean both Goodbye and Hello... Jouvanca will not be gone for ever, so this was our way of getting together with her closest friends, and bidding her Farewell and Good Luck!

Here are some photos of the party setup... If you follow me on Facebook, there are photos of the event (with people) as well. We had a FANTASTIC time, and totally caught her off guard... she was completely and utterly surprised! Our evil plan worked ;)

We had some Barbecue, took a dip in the pool under a clear night sky, and laughed the night away...

Jouvanca, we are so glad you enjoyed your party, and wish you all the Luck and Success you deserve!

Happy Blogging! :)

Drop Dead Diva!!!!!!!!!!!

I am totally loving Season 2... every episode just keeps getting better and better! If you don't know what I'm talking about, it's a show on Lifetime called "Drop Dead Diva" about an aspiring model who dies and returns to life in a size 16 body of a smarty pants lawyer.

Let me just say, the show is fantastic!!! I was seriously about to jump out of my seat as I caught up with Episode 3 on Hulu.com (If you would like to watch them, check out Hulu.com and search for Drop Dead Diva). Here is a link to the most recent episode... click here! The show is very entertaining, and I am totally loving the fact that our Heroine is a size 16! Who says the skinny girls have to have all the fun ;)

I definitely suggest you check it out...

Happy Blogging! :)

Summer once again...

It is sometimes hard to believe how quickly time flies by... We find ourselves again in Summertime...

It is very hot here, in South Florida... even the dogs are feeling a little extra lethargic. But the weather has been pretty nice, and when there's a nice breeze, it's nice to be outside enjoying this Summer weather...

Nothing major to report lately... same old! Hoping to be back in our little house soon! :) Living with the in-law's is great, but sometimes you just need your own little space.

Again, not much to say... :) Stay cool!!!

Happy Blogging! :)

Check this blog out...

Been busy, and actually in the middle of a few things right now... but I wanted to introduce this new blog to my readers, out there...

http://whywomenshouldlovesports.blogspot.com/

definitely worth checking out ;)

Happy Blogging! :)

Cosmo Cupcakes?! I'm there!

Have I mentioned how much I LOVE cupcakes? Well, I do... I love baking and decorating these miniature cakes... so of course when I saw a SATC2 (Sex and the City 2) inspired Cupcake , you KNOW I flipped ;) I found them on one of my favorite blogs. Definitely a nice treat before or after the movie... check them out!

http://www.hostessblog.com/2010/05/cosmo-cupcakes-sex-and-the-city-style/

(Photo Credit www.hostessblog.com)

Happy Blogging! :)

Happy, Happy, Joy, JOY!

Let me start off by saying that I have the BEST husband in the world! He is absolutely fantastic :) I love him so much...

Being that my Birthday is on Monday, he decided he wanted to get me a little something... and he knows how much I've been wanting a Pandora charm bracelet... so, he got me one, and 3 charms :) I am so thrilled! Here are some stock photos, courtesy or www.pandora-jewelry.com

He got me the following: Sterling Silver Bracelet, "Love" charm he picked out for me to represent our Love :), "Queen Bee" charm cause I'm his "Queen Bee" (my name means Honey-Bee), and a Music charm, since Music is my life :)

I feel like the luckiest girl in the world! And in 3 days, Happy Birthday to ME! Yay :)

Happy Blogging :)

Carmen came and went...

This was definitely a very interesting season with FGO... but I believe, in the end, we really enjoyed ourselves, even if things weren't always as "easy" as we are used to...

Here is a video of some of our backstage antics, along with some pro-pics from the production...

happy blogging :)

I must (finally) admit...

We've got "baby on the brain"... not TTC yet, but we are definitely thinking of the future...

Hello out there :)

Hello! Just wanted to swing by and say hi...

Nothing much going on lately... contemplating a few things as far as my Singing Career is concerned (like possibly taking off and going to Germany this Summer to audition for some Houses over there), but other than that, I guess I lead a boring life ;) No... not really...

Carmen #8 and #9 (the final performances) are taking place Tonight and Saturday... it's been a good running! The show was very different than what we are used to, but it turned out well, and I am glad I was able to be a part of it... here is a photo from the show...

(act 2, "Toreador")

Since about last November or so, I started a new obsession... Apple! (and I don't mean the fruit). I have always been big into gadgets and techie stuff... but this is a whole new level... it all started when I bought a used MacBook from a friend at the Opera (Thanks, Geo!), and in an instant, I was in love. The programs, the way everything works together, it's... heaven! I will NEVER go back to PC again!!! Last month, that used computer had a hard-drive issue... and since it wasn't really worth it to me to fix it and move on, I decided to sell it and get the brand new one... the features alone were worth it to me :) And you know, the funny thing is, a lot of people won't really admit to really liking all this stuff... I have heard people talk about how they used to always want the latest phone, but that at some point it just wasn't a priority anymore, and then as soon as they can they have a new smartphone in their hand... but me? I am proud to admit that if there's a new gadget, I am looking into it... My Hubby and I are DYING for Verizon to come out with the iPhone 4g (due to release sometime this Summer), and if they don't get the iPhone contract, we are seriously considered canceling with Verizon, and getting another carrier who does have the iPhone... and the iPad? Let me just say, I've already been to the Apple store 3 times to play with it... not sure about purchasing it, just yet, being that it's first generation and all, but that thing is pretty bad-ass... so yea

We took over my In-Laws' business, and it is going well. It's an established Janitorial Supply Business. When it came time for them to close their doors, and officially retire to become full-time Grandparents (after being blessed with their first Grandson last Summer), we spoke with them about keeping the business up and running in order to keep with the agreement to pay the rent at the warehouse my Hubby leased for his own business. It made sense since we already have the warehouse, and the business was running fine... we just need a few new clients. We are currently working on targeting new clients, and already have our first order from a client we plan to steal from our BIGGEST competitor... so this should be good ;)

Anyway, hope everyone is well, and staying cool... we are having some HOT days here in South Florida... so, stay hydrated, Miami ;)

Happy Blogging :)

Beyoncé - Halo

This song is dedicated to my Husband... I never thought I would find someone as wonderful and special as him... but I think GOD everyday for bringing him into my life... and even more for allowing me to see what I had standing in front of me :) I love you baby

Black Eyed Peas - Imma Be

no matter what the haters think/say...

OVER 2 MONTHS?!

Wow... time flies! I couldn't believe it myself when I looked to see when my last entry was... but it really has been over 2 months! I know, I know... BAD blogger... :( Sorry! But I guess this means it's time for a major update... hold on to your hats, cause here we go!

Ok, so the Voices for Haiti Benefit Concert went SUPER well!!! We made a lot of money, and had a pretty big turnout. We packed the Coral Gables Congregational Church, and of course, for a good cause :)

We have been staying in my In-Law's home for a little over 2 months now due to some stuff that needs to be fixed in our home... And I know what man of you are thinking... but It actually hasn't been too bad at all :) Granted, nothing compares to having your own space, but I have had a chance to see our Nephew practically on a daily basis which is great (he is just the most adorable baby in the world, and I have enjoyed spending time with him), and we still have a pretty good amount of privacy. The downside was the fact that we had to come over with our 2 dogs, one of which had to go to my Mom's after she went in heat in a house full of boy dogs. That definitely wasn't going to work. The other was not even 4 months old when we came over, so that has been a bit of a challenge. She is now 6 months old, and graduating from Puppy School at Petsmart (Graduation is May 3rd). She is doing a lot better and is learning more and more every day!

My best friend (who was my Maid of Honor) got engaged! She was in NYC with her BF for Spring Break, and he proposed in Time Square using the big American Eagle Screen... Nice job ;) They are setting a date for Summer 2012. I am so happy for her :)

Going to Disney on Memorial Weekend for my 28th Birthday with the Hubby. His Business Partner and Family are coming too :) I am sooooo looking forward to it :) Can't wait!

Let's see... what else??? Hm... I don't know what else to say for now... so I guess I'll just leave you with this song I've been listening to from the Musical "Wicked" which I went to see ;) It was FANTASTIC!!! I highly recommend it ;)

Voices for Haiti: A Benefit Concert

In case you, or someone you know, is still looking for a way to contribute towards the reliefs for Haiti, here is an idea... why don't you spend the afternoon listening to beautiful music, while you make a difference? Local South Florida Talent UNITE to bring together "Voices for Haiti: A Benefit Concert". Please review the attached Flyer for more info :)

When? 2.21.10

What time? 4pm

Where? Coral Gables Congretational Church (Directly across from the Biltmore).

How much? $15 per person, $25 per couple/family, $10 for seniors/students (with proper I.D.)

"Married Life" Sequence from "Up"

This is what I was talking about... total tear-jerker (and I mean EVERY time)...

The Mother of the Bride

Read this on a Message Board I frequent, and wanted to share... this is a super cute story! Enjoy, and...





Happy Blogging :)





"The perfect dress"
Jennifer's wedding day was fast approaching. Nothing could dampen her excitement - not even her parent's nasty divorce.Her mother had found the PERFECT dress to wear, and would be the best-dressed mother-of-the-bride ever!



A week later, Jennifer was horrified to learn that her father's new, young wife had bought the exact same dress as her mother!Jennifer asked her father's new young wife to exchange it, but she refused.. ''Absolutely not! I look like a million bucks in this dress, and I'm wearing it,'' she replied.



Jennifer told her mother who graciously said, ''Never mind sweetheart. I'll get another dress. After all, it's your special day.''A few days later, they went shopping, and did find another gorgeous dress for her mother.



When they stopped for lunch, Jennifer asked her mother, ''Aren't you going to return the other dress? You really don't have another occasion where you could wear it."Her mother just smiled and replied, ''Of course I do, dear.....I'm wearing it to the rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding.''

Up!

We returned home last night, from dinner, around 11pm or so, and decided to buy an OnDemand movie... I had been dying to watch UP for a while now, and Mr. R agreed, so we bought it in HD. It was fantastic! I really, REALLY, loved it... Once again, Disney/Pixar hits it out of the park, in my opinion.

The movie is about an Old Man, Mr. Carl Fredricksen, who during the later years of his life, after living a very long and fulfilling life alongside his childhood sweetheart, Ellie, finds himself alone, and relatively miserable. His home where they shared many of their most lasting memories has been surrounded by high-rise buildings, and the big bad Construction company is trying, in anyway possible, to get his land as well. After an unfortunate accident, Mr. Fredricksen is left with no other choice than to leave his home... but does he? From that moment on, it's nothing but an adventure for him, alongside some unlikely companions.

But that is not what really got me going... the movie begins with Carl, and his interest in a well-known explorer named Charles F. Muntz. Carl LOVES anything "Explorer" and happens upon Ellie, who coincidentially shares the same interests. She tells him about her major plans, and their friendship blossoms into a lifelong romance. Pixar does an excellent job highlighting both the good, and the not so good times throughout their lives together, such as their wedding day, the remodeling of their home, when they decide to have a baby, sitting sadly in the Doctor's Office, realizing that it will not be possible, etc. Watching the movie with my Husband, I couldn't help but cry... it was so sad, and we were not even half way through! Mr. R turned to me to comment on how sad the movie was, and I was bawling... He giggled, and hugged me.

If you haven't had the pleasure of watching this movie for yourself, I URGE you to check it out... it is really a nice movie, even if it is sad, and definitely worth every penny of the rental fee.

Happy Blogging! :)

A year ago today...

A year ago today, we were ending the most Beautiful Day of our lives, up to this point...A year ago today, we were dancing the night away, under the stars at the beautiful Spanish Monastery, at our Beautiful Wedding Reception, surrounded by all the people that mean the most to us, who were there to wish us well...
A year ago today, I was able to spend the day with my Mom, Grandparents and closest friends, getting dolled up, and preparing to marry the man of my dreams...
A year ago today, I was picked up in a shiny vintage car, and driven to the Cathedral, where I would wed my one true love...
A year ago today, I put on a beautiful gown, completed the look with a rhinestone trimmed veil, and met my soulmate at the altar...
A year ago today, we kissed, and walked down the aisle, hand in hand, as everyone watched, and smiled...
A year ago today, we danced under the stars, as if we were the only two people in the world...
A year ago today, my life would never be the same again...
A year ago today, I became HIS...

Happy Blogging :)

My Career Track...

I have been incredibly busy with rehearsals, lessons, auditions, etc... but I wanted to come by and give a brief update of what has been going on. Aside from the Bit-Role I had in FGO's Production of Suor Angelica, I have not had the pleasure of being offered any programs or roles... Everything I have auditioned for lately has been returned with a "No" (Santa Fe, Crested Butte, Chicago Lyric, FGO, MET Council Auditions, Sarasota, and I think there's one I'm forgetting... oh well), but some with encouragement and good feedback :) So, at this point, I am going to press on! There is nothing else to do, right now... I have worked very hard to be where I am today... and I feel like I am so close... so close I can fly :) I know that before long, I too will DEFY GRAVITY!

...Quote...

Even though I have been terribly busy, and haven't had an opportunity to post a full-blown update, I wanted to share a quote from a status update I just read, provided by my friend Ana M. :)

"The way i see it is people are going to hate you, love you, love to hate you, and hate to love you- but the ones that mean the most will always be there- and the ones that are supposed to be in your life- will always find a way back in."

Happy Blogging :)