I worked on Friday.
Of course I did - it was the Friday before the long weekend. And of course the dictator got off work early.
I was a day call for Night at the Museum 2. I was supposed to go on set and was actually a little excited about it (even though I hate going on set) because the movie is full of actors I like - Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Owen Wilson etc etc etc... I would have been starstruck - very subtle though of course since I'm not really allowed to be star struck. BUT I didn't get to go. I don't thin they were all there that day anyways but still. Assuming the actor's strike doesn't happen I think I am back tomorrow - but on second unit that usually means just photo doubles, extras and stunt people..... No famous people to ogle.
Oh well.
It is finally hot here. FINALLY. It is 7:30 am and it is already 31 degrees Celsius YIPPEE!!!!! Yesterday was super hot to. It was the yearly fireman's pancake breakfast. It was not - however- hot enough for the firemen to take their shirts off. Sorry to disappoint the single ladies. Maybe today? We'll go again. The Dictator and I spent the morning eating pancakes and then walked to Pajo's to eat some more. They had FROZEN BANANAS dipped in chocolate!!!!!!! This was one of my favorite treats in L.A. that I missed dearly over the years. I am so happy to get it close to home now.
Yah we ate too much yesterday within the span of 4 hours.
They we came home and had to stay out of the sun for a bit. I did some homework. When it started to cool off we took our bikes to the Port Coquitlam dykes, it was lovely. The girl's sit in my basket and off we go. A 5 minute drive and we are out in the country next to blueberry fields. Our ride got cut short though when we saw a bear on the road. We had to turn around. That was the first time I had seen a bear anywhere near there but I guess they are there all the time. It was just a tiny bear but that probably meant it's mom was close by.
Not much else going on. I have to get my homework done this weekend in case of work - and there is much to do still. Sucky weather to do it in........ but hey - maybe it will stick around for a bit now that it is almost JULY! Eeps. Happy Canada Day if I don't post again in the next few days!!!!

Sigh
he's pretty....

just spent ALL DAY making my pattern for Minou's hoodies. It is hard making something make sense for other people that you have been using for so many years. I never had a very accurate patter - just kind of winged it. It was fun though. MIght have to do another size tomorrow now that the hard part is done.
It is there on esty too. If anyone uses it they will have to let me know if my instructions suck. They were surprisingly difficult to write.

Alright I did it.
I started an Esty shop.
It isn't any of the things anyone told me to do. There might be some dog clothes one day but as of yet - NOPE. Maybe even dog clothes patterns - that I could do. But no that is not what is in my esty shop.

I am making business cards. I'm going to do a variety of backgrounds/themes. People can then pick their favorites and I'll put their info on the cards instead of my made up info. I'll have them printed here in the city and ship them out to their new homes. They aren't cheap though - that is the downside. I could do cheaper ones but I wanted to do the happy enviroment recycled ones with special green inks which basically doubles the price. Right now the printers are printing 500 business cards free though so you end up getting 1000 cards for that price. We'll see what happens. I've got nothing to lose these days. I might do some letterheads and other stationary options yet. I've only done two so far - which aren't my favorites but I have class tonight and much homework to do for that.
I also haven't been feeling too hot the last two days - nothing serious, just the usual period but in my attempt to not take prescription drugs I end up sleeping ALOT. I finally took a pill yesterday. It helped but I basically walked around stoned all day. Not very good state of mind for getting things accomplished.

Not much to much else these days. Been golfing with my sweetie - he is finally taking me to baby golf courses - after 5 years. I have managed to par a hole or two but most of the time I am at 10 strokes on a par 3. It is sad really. But it is alot more fun then the driving range. If I ever get any better I will have to start buying cute little golf outfits - right now it would be to embarrassing. You show up at a course with all the gak and a name brand shirt and skirt and then BOOM you hit one 40 yds into the trees. Nice. Nope.It is better I show up in jeans with my pink golf ball and pink clubs right now and look like I don't know what I am doing. People stay out of the way more.

Ok. I should go make supper - go be a good wife*. You 'd think someone who is unemployed with no kids could do a bit of housework and have supper ready for her sweetie everynight - not me! It is a struggle everyday.

Come visit my esty shop over the next few days - and heck order some cards!



* this is in the loosest of terms since as I may remind everyone I am NOT married nor am I engaged. I am simply living in sin with the dictator much to my own disappointment.

ok these are totally NOT suitable for younger viewers - unless you want the job of explaining why they are so funny.... heh heh..



I swear I have been getting some things done today. I swear.....

this won't be the death of me but it sucks. It could be the death of whatever sad credit rating I might still have. I'm sorry bank account - forgive me. I want a job I really do!

Strike talk has majors hitting brakes
Studios, networks making contingency plans
By MICHAEL SCHNEIDER, DAVE MCNARY

Paralysis is fast setting in.

Just as the scripted TV biz was starting to get out from under the upheaval caused by the writers strike, the threat of a work stoppage by actors has studios and nets making contingency plans for the upcoming season.

The majors are putting the brakes on production starts for features and TV pilots for fear that the Screen Actors Guild will call a strike following the June 30 expiration date of its feature-primetime deal. A few pics now shooting, such as “Angels and Demons” and “Transformers 2,” have a built-in hiatus next month; the next batch of tentpole features, including “2012,” “Prince of Persia” and “Nottingham,” won’t start until late summer as a hedge against the labor strife likely to play out in July.

The key date for the studio decisionmaking has now become July 7, when AFTRA should announce the results of its ratification vote on its primetime deal. Contract negotiations between SAG and the majors aren’t expected to lead to a deal before then — because SAG has tied its fortunes to defeating the pact reached by rival actors union AFTRA, which has 44,000 dual members with SAG. The guild has not yet scheduled a strike authorization vote, which would take three weeks to complete and require 75% approval from those voting.

Despite SAG’s efforts, the AFTRA ratification vote is expected to pass. Once the results are announced, the congloms are likely to make a “last, best and final” offer to SAG, leading in short order either to a deal or a possible lockout by the companies. Though the lockout strategy is risky for the congloms from a PR standpoint, taking such a step would preempt SAG from pulling the plug later on, with features and series in mid-production, via a strike.

For now, the landscape’s already unsettled in TV — although, in an unintended result of the writers strike, the work stoppage may have helped the nets’ contingency plans for a potential SAG strike. That’s because some shows weren’t brought back in midseason, giving the nets and studios a jump on fall.

As a result, skeins like NBC’s “Heroes” and ABC’s “Dirty Sexy Money” were able to start shooting in early May. Several procedural dramas barely took a break before firing things back up in May, including “CSI,” “Without a Trace” and “Cold Case.” Other shows that never really shut down or didn’t power down cameras for long include “House,” “ER,” “Brothers & Sisters,” “Chuck” and “Law & Order.” CBS comedy tentpole “Two and a Half Men,” resumed production on Monday, as did the net’s “The Big Bang Theory.”

Then there’s the case of “24,” which skipped a season because of the writers strike, allowing it to bank several episodes for this year. Because “24” won’t return until January, the show could conceivably weather an actors strike without any effect onscreen.

But that’s the exception to the rule. Even shows that started production early will have only a handful of segs in the can before the June 30 deadline. Fox faces a big decision in the next few weeks on whether to forge ahead with plans for a marketing blitz on frosh drama “Fringe,” which has a Sept. 9 preem date for its two-hour pilot. A production start on that show is apparently skedded for early next month.

Cable nets also have several projects in production at the moment, including “Army Wives,” “Saving Grace,” “The Closer” and “Monk.” But those nets can simply move back premiere dates or cut series telecasts short without too much disruption.

A handful of AFTRA series will be able to continue even if SAG goes on strike — depending on the ratification vote. If AFTRA members approve their new contract, Fox’s “ ’Til Death,” CBS’ “Rules of Engagement” and CW’s “Reaper” will be able to continue — unless thesps decide to march with SAG. Given the enmity between the unions, that’s an unlikely prospect.

The latenight gabfests all operate under AFTRA jurisdiction but will have to find a way to book nonactor guests. Bookers on the shows that didn’t receive a Writers Guild of America waiver last winter have already gone through that exercise once this year — and will have to hit the Rolodex once again for politicians, sports stars, musicians, authors and other guests to fill the time.

The idea of a lockout doesn’t sit well with TV execs, who plan to plow ahead with production even after June 30. The goal, after all, is to bank as many episodes before a work stoppage — and a work stoppage would be counterproductive (not to mention a death knell for their fall launches).

At the moment, the projects most impacted by the air of uncertainty are pilots scheduled for shooting in July. In these cases, studios may decide it’s not worth spending the money necessary to prep a pilot only to have to pull the plug in the event of a strike. (There’s no word yet of any pilots having been postponed.)

And though major studio pics will grind to a halt, there’s plenty of activity on the indie feature front. Productions that have obtained a SAG waiver (or guaranteed completion contract) can shoot even if there’s a strike.

SAG signed 312 such deals at last count, including for such high-profile pics as “Bad Lieutenant,” “W,” “Big Eyes,” “Killing Pablo,” “Pandorum,” “Labor Pains,” “Edge of Darkness” and “Brooklyn’s Finest” (Daily Variety, June 2).

Others include the following:

* Endgame’s romantic comedy “A Good Old Fashioned Orgy,” with Jason Sudeikis, Will Forte, Leslie Bibb, Lake Bell and Lindsay Sloane. Pic’s currently shooting in North Carolina

* Relativity’s “A Perfect Getaway,” a thriller starring Steve Zahn and Milla Jovovich

* Anonymous Content’s “44-Inch Chest,” a drama starring Ray Winstone, Ian McShane, Joanne Whalley and John Hurt

* Lionsgate’s “Shrink,” starring Kevin Spacey, directed by Jonas Pate. Saffron Burrows, Jack Huston, Robin Williams, Robert Loggia, Gore Vidal, Dallas Roberts and Mark Webber also star; shooting’s already started in Los Angeles.
More than one option
o (Person) Lindsay Sloane
Actor, Voice
o (Person) Lindsay Sloane
Assistant
More than one option
o (Person) Robin Williams
Narrator, Voice, Song Performer
o (Person) Robin Williams
o (Person) Robin Williams
Song, Song Performer, Actor
o (Person) Robin Williams
Assistant Accountant, Second Assistant Accountant
More than one option
o (Person) Mark Webber
Actor, Co-Producer, Executive Producer
o (Person) Mark Webber
Sound
o (Person) Mark Webber
Song

Negotiations between SAG and the Alliance of Motion Picture & Television Producers entered their 31st day Monday with neither side commenting, though people close to the bargaining stress that progress has been elusive. Talks are expected to resume today.

AFTRA ballots should be hitting member mailboxes this week. High-profile members endorsing the deal include James Cromwell, Jane Curtin and Sally Field; in addition, AFTRA’s been sending automated phone calls to members with Cromwell urging a yes vote.

SAG’s contended that the AFTRA deal falls short in areas such as new-media jurisdiction and compensation, middle-class actor salaries, DVD residuals, force majeure protections and product-integration protections. Both SAG and AFTRA reps are holding “roadshows” this week at the major talent agencies to brief agents as to their positions.

SAG has also challenged AFTRA to hold a two-hour debate about the AFTRA deal but AFTRA spurned the invite Monday. SAG’s blamed AFTRA’s deal for its lack of progress at the bargaining table, and president Alan Rosenberg said in a letter to AFTRA that a debate would be informative and productive since members are receiving “conflicting information” about the AFTRA agreement and its impact on SAG’s negotiations.

AFTRA prexy Roberta Reardon said SAG’s all wet.

“What is distracting and confusing for our members — and frankly, many in the entertainment industry — are SAG’s efforts to interfere with AFTRA’s ratification process,” she added. “SAG’s misguided rhetoric and theatrics — holding rallies, town hall meetings and the distribution of misinformation about the AFTRA contract — are certainly not serving the best interests of performers.”

In a message to members Monday, AFTRA said, “Don’t be fooled by spin. AFTRA, like the WGA and DGA before it, has negotiated a great agreement that delivers substantial improvements in wages and working conditions for all its members. We’ve done this in the midst of a challenging economic climate, at a moment of rapid and unsettling technological change, in an industry that is still recovering from the economic devastation of a 100-day strike. This is a time for tough-minded realism, not posturing and empty rhetoric. If you vote against ratifying the AFTRA deal, you are essentially voting for chaos in the industry.”

(Michael Fleming contributed to this report.)

this will be the death of me.

HA HA - this is what mommy's facebook page should look like. She calls me a grumpy old lady - I don't think so.

oops. I haven't seen the sun in so long I forgot what it does.


The dictator took me to a pitch and putt for the first time yesterday. Being fathers day and the first sunny day in YEARS it was a little busy. I was totally not thinking when we left the house. I wasn't wearing sunscreen, didn't bring it with me - that is pretty out of character for me. Needless to say after four hours of turning par 3s into par 10s I was a little burnt.
I'm happy to say on the 18th hole I actually hit the green, then putted to within 2 ft of the hole - whereupon my attempt at par went down the tube and it ended up being too many to count. So close yet so far. Watch out Tiger Woods I'm coming fo ryou.

Just checking in with all my METRO Halifax buddies. I keep seeing the news about the fires out there - scary. I can't imagine. Even if your house isn't threatened I know how horrible the air is when there is fires like that around. (I lived in California remember - brush fire capital of the world) I hope you are all safe and healthy. If you aren't, Steph is always up to play Martha Stewart to some guests. heh heh....

Not much new here. Word is the actor's strike is happening. That means my one job prospect is on hold. Oh goody.

Been doing alot of homework and waiting for the rain to go away. It is actually sunny outside today - I kind of don't believe it. Of course Angie leaves today for Banff so that is the end of my pathetic social life.

I did do my other mood boards wrong so here is another one that I think I did right. Only now it is much more obscure - can anyone figure out what it is?

Chieka models her AFDB
Originally uploaded by heather.

HAHAHAAAA the poor thing - has'nt learned how to tell her mommy to BACK OFF!!!

AHHH!!!! Look what happened!! I was doing so awesome and then when I started level 15 - BLANK! It was impossible - obviously... SO upset. I've never been close to doing that well before. Woe is me.

here is another 'guess this movie'
it's probably an easy one too...

this is funny too. in a different way

I don't know how Con knows about these things..... She is crazy.

I couldn't sleep last night so I didn't go to boot camp. Grrrrrr... Mad at myself for not getting up.
Now it is 8:30 and I should really be going to the gym but oh so LAZY! Incredibly so.

You were all right - Twin Peaks, I wasn't specifically doing fire walk with me or the series, all the same to me (and I haven't seen one or the other in awhile so it is hard to differentiate.)
Just in case I did another one for another movie but I don't think it is as good so you are going to have to wait until I tweak it.

Gosh I have nothing to say. Things are quiet. It is raining outside - like POURING, these days so no fun outside adventures with the girls. I have lots of homework to do so I have been spending my time on the computer while Minou and Birdie nap on the futon behind me. The house is a disaster but no one is coming to visit so why keep it clean? I think Sarah and I finished up with our logo for the travel agent stuff (first real graphic design job) we came up with something I really liked but the woman has bad taste in fonts so we had to change it. So sad. Let's just say I'll be putting my version in my portfolio.

I started a few crafts with Steph. Some have made progress. Birdie is getting a new noro sweater - she outgrew her puppy one YEARS ago. I'm on the neck and then just the sleeves to do. There is wool for Minou too. I started my mini Minou which is actually life size Minou - haven't been back to that yet but hoping to soon. As soon as the homework is done I'll allow myself a bit of play time this weekend. My tea bag dress came home this week - have no idea what to do with it. It is huge. Sad thing is it might go in the garbage. Oh here is sad news. The wearable art awards have been cancelled this year (at least for now). Apparently the woman who has been running them for the past few years is no longer with the gallery. They say they will try and have it in the spring instead but I have my worries. At least this means I'm not behind on my dress. Although that isn't very comforting.

Ok I REALLY should go to the gym. I think I gained five pounds just hearing Steph describe the home made oreos she made last night.

Can you guess this movie???
This is a homework assignment. I'm worried I've made it way to obvious.....

For those of you who liked Steph's new t-shirt I thought I would share the link.It called the fleas knees They are made by a friend of Janie Clarkson's. I didn't realize proceeds went to a good cause too so that never hurts.

i really didn't take any good pictures while Steph was here. How pathetic. And now she is gone. A few hours ago she was in Toronto - she must almost be in Halifax now, maybe another hour?

Steph took lots of pics though. I'm sure there will be plenty of embarrassing shots on her blog soon enough...



Birdie and Minou did meet Henry. Birdie quite enjoyed his company when Steph wasn't watching.



Shockingly Birdie LOVED her Auntie. Still don't know how Steph aka dog whisperer managed that. Birdie hates everyone. Steph managed to have Birdie sitting in her lap within an hour. I think it was voodoo.
Minou remembered Steph too - she was quite affectionate even with her princess disposition.

There was lots of walking, starbucks, shopping ( a trip to target across the border and a wholesale sewing notions place), eating homemade 'cardiac arrest' blueberry cheesecake ice cream, and more starbucks.
It was fun and I am sad she is gone so soon - although I don't think I would fit in my pants much longer if she had stayed. Does anyone remember Steph's comment about how I am willing to eat an entire box of donuts with her - yah well, it works both ways. Ice cream for breakfast - and then maybe waffles, and then fish and chips for lunch - oh don't forget starbucks and more starbucks and maybe pizza, what is a vegetable? I even slept in and missed boot camp on Friday. SO BAD.
So if I look fat in the pictures - well it is my own fault.

anyways - it is bedtime. Must get on some kind of schedule tomorrow. I'm back in classes 2 nights a week.
And just for those of you who are wondering - there was much baboon humping.....

**

(please don't kill me 'S' - I had to post this one - I know you have payback photos anyways......and I'll add the disclaimer. see no one will know it is you - I didn't use your real name)




** Persons may not be as they seem in this photo
1. Said persons were sick and we were lucky they weren't in bed with pjs on
2. The angle was horrible - said person is much much slimmer in real life
3. Sunglasses were being worn to disguise this celebrity - as a result you couldn't see her radiant eyes and glowing skin
4. Baboon was actually not being squashed within an inch of his life but was loving his first humping from this person.